Okey dokey - here is the first of the tedious questions as promised. Pretty open ended to get the discussion going:
This should be quite interesting.

1 What are the hippest and most happening lines at this time? Why?

2 What is up and coming? Why?

3 What are respectable lines, though perhaps not quite as fashionable? Why? Why are they less hip than those above?

4 What lines should be avoided? Why?

Also, I was told once, Build your house, then decorate it. This is meant as get the confirmation right first, then worry about the perfection re the coat. It sounds like good advice to me.

5 What lines would give good confirmation, paces (thats a horse term, perhaps "gait" is used in cat world?? You know, that lovely low slinky walk) and, most important, robust health.

6 I have heard phrases like, " . . . the way the breed standard it heading at the moment . . . " In what direction, in your opinion, is the breed standard heading at this time. I saw a lovely tom who seemed to have perfect confirmation and a beautiful coat - and the most beautiful head I have ever seen. Unfortunately he had a tiny bit of barring on his hind legs. This knocked him from the top spot down to reserve or something.

7 Are there any questions that I havent thought of that should be asked?

8 Also, and most importantly, did you all have a great Christmas?