Graduation — Which One?

Описание: Graduation — Which One?

I recommend watching the video before reading below.

This is the story of a blue-eyed boy named Grits. I rescued him along with Shrimp and Blue. Sadly, Blue passed away just a few days later. Shrimp, however, was recently adopted and reunited with his nanny, Apollo. You can watch their story here:    • Shrimp Tale – Graduation  

Grits was twice the size of Shrimp, full of energy, and always ready to play. However, he couldn’t convince Shrimp to join in, as Shrimp was more focused on bonding with people at the time. To help Grits, I began searching for a kitten who might make a good playmate. That search led me to rescue two new kittens: Waffles, who I hoped would be a match for Grits, and tiny Maple, who seemed perfect for Shrimp.

It didn’t work out right away. Waffles was tense, defensive, and didn’t know how to play with others. Some singleton kittens need extra time to adjust, and Waffles was no exception. It was clear he wanted to play, but his behavior was akin to the kid at the playground everyone avoided. Over time, though, Waffles learned good impulse control and was eventually accepted by the group. As I’d hoped, he and Grits became fast friends, playing and cuddling together.

When it came time to find forever homes for the boys, I encouraged a pair adoption but didn’t make it a requirement. I wanted them to stay together, but I also didn’t want them to miss out on a great home because of the pairing stipulation. Grits received a lot of interest, but Waffles didn’t. I explained to potential adopters that I wanted to try a little longer to find a family for both of them. Eventually, I found one. After a trial period, however, the family decided it wasn’t the right time to adopt kittens. Naturally, I was disappointed and worried the transition might negatively affect the boys. I questioned whether I could have done things differently, but in the end, I trusted that things happen for a reason. I believed this was part of a bigger, better picture and continued searching for the perfect family for them.

Then, a lady in Texas came across my latest post about Grits and Waffles and decided to apply. She told me she had considered applying when I still had the Astros, but she hadn’t been emotionally ready after losing her heart kitty, Lily. She’d been following the Brunch kittens’ journey, and when Shrimp was adopted, she realized she was ready to open her heart again.

It just so happened she was visiting family in my area that week—literally within 10 minutes of my location. I suggested she visit the boys to get to know them better. She brought a stuffed toy with Lily's scent on it. Grits sniffed it and immediately began making biscuits on it. She spent time in our kit cave (I love having a space for potential adopters to connect with the kittens one-on-one). Before she left, I told her to sleep on the decision—no pressure. But I think she already knew. She returned the next day to make it official. So, in the end, this became the story of a blue-eyed boy named Grits, AND a long-tailed ginger boy named Waffles.

As she signed the papers, Grits placed his paws on her lap, accepting her gentle touch. There was something calming about her presence that made the boys feel safe.

Their new mom later shared that the boys did wonderfully during the long drive home. They explored their new home, shared their first meal, played for a couple of hours, and then slept on her bed without causing any trouble. She sent me a video of Waffles making biscuits on her lap—a touching sight, as it usually takes him time to warm up to people. Seeing that moment brought tears to my eyes.

She also told me, “I just can’t believe how good they are.” And so far (knock on wood!), they’ve even left the Christmas tree alone!

It seems these brothers by fate--fate called "rescue"--have now found their forever home—and their forever person. 💕

Update: They are keeping their names!!