To explain this particular mom and her family, the following is an excerpt from an e-mail I sent Marna...the fellow crazy woman "who dresses her rats in little outfits" -- and makes all the outfits in which I dress my own.  She also breeds fancy rats and we've therefore struck up quite a lovely ongoing conversation about these wonderful and hugely misunderstood little pets.  

"Marna, you were so right when you said even when you don't breed rats, they multiply!!!!  It turned out Keela was pregnant when we got her...the guy had said there was a slight chance of this as she had just that day been with a male.  He also said we could bring the babies back once they were weaned if we still wanted her.  Well, that's great in theory...then three and a half weeks later these amazing little creatures appear.  And, within days it becomes increasingly apparent how wonderful they all are.  Then we go to the vet with Maggie and take a couple along....of course, Dr. Steve goes into a panic at the thought of them going to other homes where their end might not be that of a healthy happy pet.  Anyway, long story short, it seems we now have a VERY large rat family!"  

So, without further ado, I present a very special mom, and her equally special offspring...

Pre-babies Keela...

Babies at about a week...(in the potato flakes can in which they were born)...

One of the babies keeping in close touch with his mom (while his pal sleeps)...

Babies at about two weeks...

And a very tired Keela on her nap break...

Keela back on the job (the babies are again about two weeks old here -- the rest of the photos bring them up to approximately five weeks)...

...but heading toward a bit of freedom as Isolde learns to drink from the water bottle...

...and everyone enjoys a first pasta feast...

Of course, Bree still found the food bowl a little confusing...

...subsequently heading back with her siblings for a more accustomed and comforting meal...

...after which everyone was ready for a bit of rest and relaxation atop their favorite box (hmm...do you think they know it once contained a pasta cooker?!)...

And, surely you knew it could only be a matter of time until the babies began their own experiences with showing off rat finery.  Here's Bree borrowing Molly's hat for a little dress up fun...

...or at least something she endured...

...with an admirable level of patience...

What a face, huh? (not to mention those fingers and feet)!

Crazy stuff, I know -- but hey, again I remind you...I am an artistinsane!!!

Happy Mother's Day!