How loving of Liz to keep all three of Chess's surprise litter.

Charlie Girl, 8 years old. The youngest of three, born a few minutes after big brothers, Stan and Ollie, daughter of Chess, a beautiful and gentle blue mackerel tabby I found at the SPCA almost 9 years ago. Chess turned out to be pregnant (she was only 7 months at the time). Charlie was very timid for the first 6 years of her life, but has bloomed in the past couple of years. She stands her ground (for a couple of heartbeats, anyway) with Stan (the alpha), and now joins us on my bed every night.

She's quite the vocalizer (early morning - who needs a rooster?). Here she is, basking in front of the fireplace, a spot usually occupied by Stan.