A name whether for a product, person or pet is something to be thought of and figured out for the most impact. If it doesn't match the character or specifics of the individual item, then how will anyone know it's value and significance. One wouldn't call something "ugly" as it's name. It might be a reality but certainly could cause more harm than good with such a name. Likewise, if someone names a pet "Lucky", which is a great name, but what happens if the dog is hit by a car. Was he truly "Lucky?"

Recently, the two little kittens came to live here and the task of finding the right name began. Not completely sure what to do, the challenge was placed on Facebook for friends to aide in the challenge. So many great names were shared which made the final decision that much harder. Some of our favorites were "Stetson and Wrangler", "Vegas and Dallas", "Shiner and Bud", "Midnight," "Buster and Boo," and so many others.

The names which became the final ones were "Shadow and Shiner." This is Shadow, and it's a name first thought of when he was less than two weeks old. He is a great little kitty with some issues but none that cannot be overcome. He has some problems with his tendons and not all of his claws re-track. He walks around and if one didn't know better it appears he is "giving you the finger" with both paws. It may improve as he grows and it may not; but he is a loveable kitty and would never "flip anyone off" unless they bothered his brother or his big sister.

Additionally, he wasn't born with all his toes on his back feet. His ability to run, jump, leap and fly down the stairs certainly would not give away his secret. He is adventurous and curious. He likes to cuddle and explore. He enjoys watching "Cat TV" from the two front windows. He is willing to take on the floor sweeper until it's turned on. At this point he practices safe stalking instead of kitten pouncing.

Shadow is definitely going to be the "troublemaker" of the two. His desire to explore proved to be handy as he found a hole beneath a corner cabinet in the kitchen and promptly went to investigate. Luckily, the hole which was not known to be in existence will be too small for him in a week or two. Until then, a box fits perfectly under the counter to protect all involved.

The name chosen for the second kitty was "Shiner." Now with his "patches" and some in the correct spots "Wrangler" was a close second. However, Shiner works for several reasons---the beer, travels to Texas, and the fact that he has two "black" eyes. So Shiner stuck and he also "shines" everyday with his enthusiasm, love, engaging personality. Sammie first hissed at him and he just didn't understand why. So, he continued to go back and let her do it again and again and again until she realized he wasn't going to be detoured. He was the first of the two to get a kiss from Sammie too.

Shiner almost got the name "Gator" being short for "instigator". He generally starts most the trouble although the scales have been leveling out here recently. Another example of how things can change and not make sense if the correct name isn't chosen. He will always have his "black eyes" so Shiner will remain perfect for him. Other than being one of the smaller kittens in the litter and that both his front and back legs are "bull legged" he's a great little kitty. He loves to cuddle, loves his Bronco cup and blanket even though it's getting hot here. He meows the most of the two.

With a lot of thought and help, the two little kittens have names which will match their personalities throughout their lives. If "purrs" and wrestling matches could generate power, the air conditioner could run non-stop all summer. Regardless, Shadow and Shiner will continue to grow into the "Cool Cats" that they started out to be as kittens.