I'm young, very black, and very soft. I'm quite small but look at you with wide, knowing eyes. For someone so young, small, and sweet, I've quite a tale to tell. That's a "tale", not a "tail" - although I have one of those also. If you have a streak of novelist in you, come listen to me. I may have the story line you've been looking for. If you wouldn't try to write a novel for all the fresh tuna in the sea, come listen, anyway. I'm a dear, dear girl cat, and you'll fall in love.

Tina's Tale: I know more than I'd like to know about the sea and the fish who live in it. I was born in New Orleans. People told me that the sea very much wants to claim my birthplace. It teams up with great winds to form hurricanes and comes to grab what it thinks it should have. My humans and I escaped Katrina. Yes, I am a survivor. We never went back. We went to Texas, but it didn't work out. Now, my recollections get furry, but I ended up without my original people and here in Saint Paul. Life gets rough when the great waters covet your home, they say.

So I'm seeking a person or quiet family who will understand, appreciate, and love me. I know I am lovable. Everyone says so. And who would not love a small torch singer who may have performed about the French Quarter in her early days? A little Edith Piaf from the bayous - a bit shy - but sensitive and warm as a sultry night on Bourbon Street. Come listen to me; come talk to me; imagine my story. Love me. Bring fresh seafood, a bit of jambalaya - and $100 to cover my room and board. Take me with you to where the sea will not seek me again. I am Tina.

PS: I currently reside at THE SHELTER (not in foster care). If you can't stop in but would like to know more about me, please call 651-642-5900, ext.3. Thanks!