Four years ago we came home with Mokaccino "Puff Daddy" of Katmandu. That's what we called him until our son Dean took one look at his chocolate coloured face and named him "Fudgey:.

I had gone to Shaded Tails with another cat in mind but while taking the tour of Bonnie's enchanting home, Fudgey followed close behind. He had chosen ME and he stole my heart.

He is a large, extremely handsome seal point Himalayan with large expressive blue eyes. He filled a deep void in our life and soon had it overflowing with joy. He is very clean, eats well and has never had one sick day. His sunny disposition rubs off on everyone he meets. Don't let his quiet, gentle, mellow nature fool you. As they say "Still waters run deep". This certainly applies to Fudgey. He actually does tricks, he gives a paw, will give you a high 5 and waves hello and goodbye. Really, you may see him on David Letterman's Stupid Pet Tricks soon.

I could write 10 pages on his peaceful disposition and great personality but feel he would not be like this had it not been for early stimulation that he received from Bonnie. Because of all her kisses and hugs, because she spent countless hours telling him how gorgeous and loved he was, because she groomed him so lovingly and often, he is now the ultimate "perfect cat". Wonderful personalities are due in part to good genes but equally, if not more important, is the love and positive reinforcement they get. A good start is SO crucial.

I have had many other cats and seen other breeders and by far, Bonnie is the cream of the crop. She is the "cat's meow" so to speak. She genuinely loves them all and keeps an interest in them long after they have left Shaded Tails. Her knowledge, interest and unconditional love she showers on them as babies, remain with them forever.

One look around at the contented cats and kittens, the harmonious atmosphere and immaculate surroundings of Shaded Tails and it is evident that Bonnie is a rare breed among breeders. Fudgey puts a smile on my face every day. I love our playful times. His sweet, outgoing personality is the direct result of his early experiences with Bonnie.

If you want an extremely social, happy, healthy, affectionate Himalayan - look no further. You will not find a more approachable, knowledgeable, energetic breeder and therefore will never find cats with such extraordinary qualities, like those from Shaded Tails.

Four years ago I found two life long friends, Fudgey and Bonnie !

By Nancy DiCioccio