Singapore Dolls
 by
Mel Ritchie...Singapore
It was Easter, 1997, and our annual trip to the Sydney Easter Show. The
oldest daughter, Emma, had seen a tiny article in the newspaper about
a breed of cats called Ragdolls being exhibited. Laden with sample bags,
various funny hats and creatures on sticks, we made our way to the Cat
Pavillion. There in Cathy's arms was the most magnificent Blue Baron (who
I
think won Cat of the Show). Of course, he was in his element, performing
to his adoring crowd, Ragdoll position, a couple of languid turns, eyes
on the audience and a yawn. We were bitten. We took back to Singapore
Cathy's handout on Ragdolls. We combed the Net and found volumes on this
unique breed. We were truly bitten. July, we returned to Sydney, rang
Cathy to go over and see the kittens. Father (not a cat man) said "We'll
take two!". We became the proud owners of Snuggle Pot and Cuddle
Pie (aka Spud and Binkey). Cathy found time at all times of the day (and
night) to teach us how to look after "The Boys".
They arrived in Singapore 9.30pm early July of that year. Quarantine
at Changi Airport shuts at 10.00pm. We had 30 minutes to get them off
the plane or they would have to stay caged overnight. Father said "Not
our cats!". The quarantine people were so keen that the boys go home
that night, they drove like the clappers from the cargo hold of the Qantas
plane shouting and waving down the runway "We've got them".
Needless to say, our Boys are very happy in a large air-conditioned apartment.
Life is pressing a face against a warm window and letting our toes get
the draft of the aircon. Finding an empty bed and in the sun baking position,
arms up and legs apart, snoozing. Helping Emma and Jess with their homework
on their desks.
The Boys are loved.
The Singapore Cat Club seems to get judges who are unable to judge Ragdolls.
They tell us that it is gradually changing. We can't wait!
Emma, Jess, Fran and Mel Ritchie.
Singapore, March 31, 1998.
© 2002-2003
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