10/27/2026
Just a little update from Enchanted Highlanders!
I know I’ve been pretty quiet lately, but I’ve had some unexpected and rather urgent matters that have needed my full attention. Between some personal things going on behind the scenes, our current litters, and Peachy’s unexpected emergency C-section, we’ve had quite a bit on our plate these past few weeks. Thankfully, Peachy and her babies are doing well, and I’m slowly getting everything caught up!
I’ve also been doing a lot of thinking about the future of my program, what I’d still like to accomplish, and some changes I may be making as we head into 2027.
I’ve known and loved the Highlander since I was around 15 years old, and now being in my 30s, it’s crazy to think how long this breed has been part of my life. While most of my actual contributions have been within these past several years, I’m incredibly proud to have been part of helping the breed achieve Championship status, producing standards, contributing to our numbers, and now seeing our lines being utilized in other programs for genetic diversity and outcrossing.
I’ve never been one for politics. I’ve simply wanted to see this breed succeed, and that’s really all I’ve ever been here for.
With the Breed Committee election underway, I know many have already voted, and I truly appreciate everyone who has supported me. If I’m fortunate enough to be elected, I would be incredibly grateful and fully committed to the position. Being able to continue advocating for the breed, encouraging transparency, keeping members informed, and working alongside others is something I would genuinely look forward to. Honestly, I think having that opportunity would bring back a lot of the excitement and motivation I’ve been missing lately!
I do have some concerns about the direction the breed may be heading, especially when it comes to preserving the Highlander’s original foundation and appearance. I understand breeds evolve over time, and I’m certainly not against progress. However, I feel we’ve gotten away from that original look, with many becoming smaller and more compact. I’d love to see us get back to those larger, muscular Highlanders with long bodies, huge heads, and that exotic, wild-looking appearance that made this breed so unique. I believe we should be working toward preserving those characteristics while continuing to improve health, type, and genetic diversity. That’s something I’ve always felt strongly about, and I don’t want us to lose sight of what made the Highlander what it is today.
If I’m not elected, I will most likely be taking a step back and continuing with Highlanders on a much smaller scale. Not because of the election itself, but because I have to consider whether the future direction of the breed aligns with what I’ve been working toward in my own program.
And truthfully, I’m just burnt out. This past year has been a lot, and I’ve realized that sometimes you need to give yourself a little time to decompress. I still love my cats and everything I’ve accomplished, but I also want to enjoy what I’m doing again without feeling like I’m constantly running on empty.
I still have some goals I’d like to accomplish with my Highlanders, including continuing to transition away from polydactyly and potentially exploring additional work involving breed health and diversity. I also plan to start putting more of my focus into another breed in the near future. I’m genuinely excited about the possibility of something new, where I can bring the same dedication and passion I’ve always had and hopefully be part of a community where those efforts are appreciated and encouraged.
None of this means I’m saying goodbye to the Highlander or making any permanent decisions right now. I’m simply figuring out what makes the most sense for my program and my family moving forward.
As we get closer to the holidays, I plan to take some much-needed time to decompress, enjoy my family, and focus on our cats and kittens. I’ll still be here and taking care of everything, but I may be a little quieter while I recharge.
We also have TWO other surprises that I’m hoping to announce by Christmas, so there are definitely some exciting things happening behind the scenes! I’ll be back up and going here soon.
I’m really hoping 2027 brings a much better year, some new opportunities, and a fresh start. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, thankful for everyone who has supported us, and looking forward to seeing where this next chapter takes us.
At the end of the day, I’ve always just wanted to see the Highlander succeed. That hasn’t changed, and it never will.
—Beloved Bellacroyja
