Last night, we went to a local mall planning to see a movie. But on the way to the movie I came across a storefront that the mall had donated to the SPCA of Los Angeles so they could feature pets they had available for adoption. The animals had tons of play room, the place was immaculately clean, they had tons of toys, climbing trees ... it was wonderful to see.
A LITTLE BACKGROUND:
I had pretty much given up on finding a Russian Blue for adoption ... I wanted a kitten. But these darn rescue groups post grey cats on PetFinder.com as Russian Blues when they aren't. What's worse, every rescue group I had contacted for adoption wanted to force two cats on me. What's more, they have all been (so far) "cat ladies" who seemingly horde cats and have a hard time giving them up to very viable adopters. Geez - I have an extremely good home, have a fantastic job, and I used to work for a vet when, at one point in my life I thought I would become a vet. So by last night I was looking for any kitten. My friend had even recently convinced me to give up on these dysfunctional rescue groups and go straight to the shelters - before the cats are put down.
LAST NIGHT:
So this is where my head was at last night when we came across the SPCA location in the mall. The minute I walked in this large grey (named Tito) caught my eye. Very graceful, intelligent, calm and affectionate. I gave him a quick pet through his cage. My friend noted how beautiful he was. But I moved further in the "store." I was looking for a kitten. But with every cat and kitten I saw, I found myself thinking of the grey ... it's eyes, a piercing green - a cat that had, in one stare, communicated it wanted to be adopted but, demanded respect. The further I walked away from it the more I felt drawn back.
We were leaving the store when I stopped to see the grey again ... and asked myself, "Why a kitten when this cat is already trained and home-ready? He's young (only 2) and absolutely fantastic! He looked so much like a Russian Blue it was uncanny"
That's when I let my friend know I was considering. Really. We told the manager there that we needed to disucuss over a bite in the food court.
When we came back 30 minutes later; the grey had many admirers but, my mind was made up - he needed to come home with me.
We made the commitment, purchased a climbing tree, observed the cat for a bit before heading to Borders while the manager filled out the paperwork.
TODAY:
All last night and this morning I have been thinking of a great name for the grey. It needs to be dignified, mystical, gothy - it's male. Things "shadow" come to mind. But I am thinking there is a better name to be found.
He comes home with me on 12/26 - after all the t's are crossed and the i's are dotted.
I need a name! And I invite you to throw in any name you think approriate. Please take this seriously and know that I will consider every idea sent gratefully!
Thanks gang! 
Oh, a P.S. After doing considerable research, I do believe the grey is, in fact, a Russian Blue - or at least 80%
