Happy Tuesday

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLXXVI

Train Trip

Stinky is anxious for Periwinkle’s arrival so they can get started on today’s adventure. They will be making a whistle-stop tour around Stinky’s home state of Virginia. When he hears the familiar whoosh from the teleportation tunnel he is waiting with open paws to intercept Periwinkle. After some whisker kissing and paw hugs, Stinky takes Periwinkle’s paw and leads her back into the tunnel for a a very quick trip to the train station in downtown Roanoke. 

When they arrive at the station and Periwinkle sees what Stinky has planned, she claps her paws together & exclaims, “Oh goody, a train trip. This is so exciting.”

“I hope our friends will think so,” says Stinky.

“Why wouldn’t they?” asks Periwinkle.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats dressed in warm coats and hats at the Amtrak Station in Roanoke, VA.

 

USA/World Spay Day

“Well, because they aren’t coming along. You know, Periwinkle, those who adventure with us are well aware of how important it is to spay and neuter their pets and companion animals as well as feral cats living in colonies. And last year, over on your blog, we did a special PSA for USA/World Spay Day. In fact, if our followers want to read more about it, they can click on the link to that post.  So, while we are busy spreading the word around my state, we are going to give our readers the opportunity to revisit some of our favorite past adventures from my blog.”

“I like the idea that I get to spend the day with you riding on a train, so I hope our readers won’t mind that they won’t actually be joining us today,” replies Periwinkle.

“Periwinkle why don’t you select a favorite adventure first,” says Stinky.

Tea Party

“That’s easy. I loved the Tea Party you had for me on June 8, 2020!”

(To visit any of the past adventures, click on the photos.)

 

A ground hog, rabbit, squirrel and robin at a tea party with two cartoon tabby cats.

 

“That was a great adventure, Periwinkle. I got to invite some of the woodland creatures who hang out in our yard.”

“I loved meeting all of them. They were so kind to me.”

Double Date with Tyebe and Cooper Murphy

“I really enjoyed our trip to Sandstone Falls in West Virginia on March 30, 2021, when we went hiking, fishing and picnicking with Cooper Murphy and his girlfriend Tyebe.”

“That was great. It’s fun to include friends in our adventures occasionally; though, I do prefer when it is just the two of us,” Periwinkle tells Stinky.

 

A white cat, and orange tabby cat with two cartoon tabby cats (all wearing hats and holding fishing poles) at Sandstone Falls in West Virginia.

 

Tortola, BVI

“Stinky, visiting your parents favorite vacation spot on Tortola in the British Virgin Islands on May 10, 2022, was one of the most exciting and romantic adventures ever! I’d like to visit there again.”

“It really is beautiful there, Periwinkle. We can definitely go back sometime,” Stinky tells her.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats sitting on a roof over looking Long Bay in Tortola, BVI.

 

Eagles

“Our trip on the James River on April 27, 2021, to visit the Eagles was one of my all time favorites,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

“Oh, Stinky, me too. We were so lucky they liked us and didn’t try to eat us for their lunch!”

 

Two cartoon tabby cats, wearing hats, and sitting on a branch with two eagles.

 

Preparing for Thanksgiving

“My turn again, Stinky. I had so much fun when we went to Mau’s Bake Shop on November 26, 2019, and he helped us make Thanksgiving pies, and we made you a Gotcha Day Cake.”

“That was a great one, as Mau was still with us then. And I really liked my cake,” replies Stinky.

 

A collage of two tabby cats wearing chef's hats and a tuxedo cat in an apron and chef's hat in front of a bakery and with a cat face cake.

 

“Those really were great adventures, Periwinkle. I hope our friends had fun revisiting them.”

“I sure know I did, Stinky. We have had so many great adventures…176 to be exact! And I am happy we were able to remind everyone how important it is to spay and neuter their pets.”

“It looks like it’s time to return to my house for a snack and a visit with all my fursibs.”

“Sounds good to me, Stinky,” replies Periwinkle.

After a snack, visit and quick nap, it is time for Periwinkle to return home. She and Stinky spend several minutes whisker kissing and paw hugging. With a final wave, Periwinkle hops into the teleportation tunnel for the trip home.

Stinky heads to the bedroom for a nap already thinking about seeing Periwinkle next Tuesday.

The End

Periwinkle and Stinky will be joining the Happy Tuesday blog top at Comedy Plus. Click on the badge below to do the same.

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLXIV

Do You Remember Adventure XI?

Stinky is anxious for Periwinkle’s arrival. He’s positive she will like the adventure he’s planned. When she comes tumbling from the teleportation tunnel with the familiar whoosh, he grabs her and wraps her up in a huge paw hug. Periwinkle reciprocates and exclaims, “That sure was nice, Stinky. It’s a lot colder here than at home, and that hug warmed me up nicely.”

Before Periwinkle can even ask about their adventure, Stinky tells her, “Periwinkle, we are going to revisit a place we went on our 11th adventure. Do you remember that adventure?” Stinky asks.

Periwinkle gives him one of her famous eye rolls, which Stinky ignores. “Are you kidding me, Stinky? This is our 164th adventure. How can I remember the 11th one? When was it?”

“It was Christmas Eve of 2019,” Stinky replies.

Periwinkle is quiet for several minutes, and Stinky can tell she is thinking very hard. Finally, she asks, “Is that when we went to visit Santa?”

“No, but that was a good guess. I really thought you’d remember that adventure. It was a super special one,” Stinky says. Periwinkle can hear the disappointment in his voice and feels terrible. She grabs Stinky’s paw and heads to the teleportation tunnel. “I guess we better get going. Hopefully I will remember when we arrive,” she tells him. Stinky has his paws crossed that she does.

Rockefeller Center, New York

The two pop into their tunnel and in the blink of an eye arrive at their destination. When Periwinkle sees where they are, she immediately remembers the previous adventure, which you can read about here, “The Adventures of Periwinkle & Stinky: Part XI.” Periwinkle throws her paws around Stinky’s neck and starts giving him whisker kisses. When she finally stops, she squeals, “Oh, Stinky, how could I have forgotten this magical adventure. We went all around the world looking at Christmas lights. And when we arrived here at Rockefeller Center, we went ice skating and you asked me to be your girlfriend. That was one of the best days ever! I can hardly believe that we have been adventuring for more than three years or that we have been boyfriend and girlfriend for almost as long.”

The Christmas Tree

“Time really does seem to have a way of quickly slipping away,” responds Stinky. “Shall we go look at the tree?”

“Oh, yes please,” Periwinkle tells him.

“I’m sorry it’s raining, Periwinkle. I am happy I brought an umbrella.”

“That was a good idea.”

 

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and wire angels and two cartoon tabby cats under an umbrella.

 

“What can you tell me about the Christmas tree, Stinky. I know you researched it before we came.”

“You know me so well. I did do a little reading. The first tree went up in 1931 when workers pooled their money to buy it. It was a 20-foot tall Balsam fir. It had handmade paper garlands and strings of cranberries created by the workers’ families. In 1933 Rockefeller Center made the Christmas tree an annual tradition and held the first tree lighting ceremony. Two trees were put up at Rockefeller Center in 1936. A skating pageant was held at the ice skating rink, which had just opened on the Plaza,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

“Wow, I had no idea trees were being set up at Christmas even before our parents were born,” replies Periwinkle. “Can we get a closer look at the tree now?”

Stinky takes Periwinkle’s paw and leads her closer to the tree.

Some Facts About the 2022 Tree

 

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and two cartoon tabby cats under an umbrella.

 

“Wow,” exclaims Periwinkle!

Stinky tells her about the 2022 tree. “This year’s tree is 82 feet tall and weighs 14 tons. It’s an approximately 85 to 90 year old Norway Spruce and comes from Queensbury, New York. It has 50,000 multicolored LED lights, which equals approximately 5 miles of wire. The top has a star made up of 3 million Swarovski crystals on 70 triangular spikes.”

“No wonder it is so bright,” exclaims Periwinkle. Stinky replies, “My mom would put that many lights on our tree if she could.” That makes Periwinkle giggle.  She asks, “Is this the tallest tree ever put up here for Christmas?”

Some Additional Historical Facts

Stinky tells her that the tallest tree was 100 feet in height and on display in 1999. It was a spruce tree from Killingworth, Connecticut.

He also shares some interesting facts about the tree being unlit during World War II due to black out regulations. Three smaller trees, instead of one big one, were put up in 1942 and decorated with red, white and blue unlit globes and painted wooden stars.  In 2001, following the tragedies of September 11, the tree also was decorated in a patriotic red, white and blue theme.

The original Swarovski Star was added to the tree in 2004. It weighed 550 pounds and had 25,000 crystals with one million facets. It was 9.5 feet in diameter. LED lights were added the following year. The current star was first displayed in 2018.

“Stinky, those are a lot of interesting facts about the past Christmas trees. The trees certainly have become a wonderful tradition. Shall we look at some of the other lights?”

“Good idea!”

Channel Garden Angels

“Stinky, look at these gorgeous angels. Do you know anything about them?”

 

Purple lit wire angels at Rockefeller Center with two cartoon tabby cats under an umbrella

 

“Of course. Sculptor Valerie Clarebout created the angels in 1955, and they debuted in 1969. Each have wings, robes and halos and hold a 6-foot-long trumpet. There are 12 8-foot tall angels made from 75 pounds of metal wire. To complete the celestial display, Clarebout used 76 miles of material, including 18 miles of aluminum wire and brass as well as thousands of miniature lights.”

“They really are sparkly and breathtaking. Can we go to the ice rink now?” asks Periwinkle. Stinky takes her paw and leads her there.

The Plaza Ice Rink

 

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing Christmas tree hats and ice skates on skating rink bellow Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center.

 

“Stinky, I love being back here, and I am so happy the rain has stopped. I don‘t think this would be much fun in the rain.”

“I agree!”

“These fun hats you found for us are really cool as well. They definitely put me in a festive mood,” says Periwinkle.

The tabbies join paws and spend quite a bit of time skating, talking and giggling about their first visit to the rink. After several circles around the rink, the tabbies stop for a hot beverage and a snack. While nibbling, Stinky leans closer to Periwinkle and whispers in her ear, “I love you, Periwinkle.” Periwinkle smiles, gives Stinky a whisker kiss and replies, “I love you too, Stinky.”

When they finish their snack, Stinky suggests that it is time for them to return to his house, and they head back to the teleportation tunnel.

A Blue Christmas Tree

When Periwinkle and Stinky arrive at Stinky’s house, Periwinkle asks to see the Christmas tree and the kittens. Stinky leads her to the dining room to show her one of two trees to which he and and the other Kitties Blue have access. “So here’s the tree unlit,” says Stinky.

 

Unlit but decorated family Christmas tree with two cartoon tabby cats in Christmas tree hats.

 

“Stinky, this is incredible. I don’t think I have ever seen so many cute ornaments. Can we see it with the lights on?”

“Sure, let me get Mom to turn them on for us. By the way, my mom’s been collecting ornaments for 50 years, and many have been gifts,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

 

Decorated and lighted family Christmas tree with two cartoon tabby cats in Christmas tree hats.

 

“That is stunning! Are the kittens still removing ornaments at night?” Stinky tells Periwinkle that they have been good the last couple of nights and left it alone. Then Periwinkle asks if she can get a peek at the tree with the breakable ornaments. Stinky explains that his mom hasn’t finished decorating it, and she’ll have to wait until she comes back in two weeks. He can see Periwinkle’s disappointment, but when he leads her to the kittens, it appeases her.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats with an orange tabby kitten in a Christmas tree hat and a brown tabby kitten.

 

Stinky thinks it would be funny to put his tree hat on Raleigh. After he does so, he takes off before Raleigh can get mad at him. He leaves Periwinkle to visit. When she finishes, Periwinkle joins Stinky in the kitchen where she says, “hi,” to Stinky’s mom and dad. Too soon, it’s time for Periwinkle to head home. She thanks Stinky for the adventure with paw hugs and whisker kisses before entering her tunnel. Then with a wave she is gone in a whoosh. Stinky finds a sunpuddle to nap in and dream about Periwinkle.

The End

Periwinkle and Stinky are participating in Happy Tuesday at Comedy Plus.

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLXII

Stinky anxiously awaits Periwinkle’s arrival. He knows time is flying by and it will soon be Christmas, but for him the individual days seem to drag on and on. He finds having to wait an entire week to see his girlfriend Periwinkle is agonizing. When he hears that familiar whoosh from the teleportation tunnel, he begins bouncing up and down on his back paws and spreads out his front ones to catch Periwinkle as she comes tumbling out. The two tabbies share their usual paw hugs and whisker kisses, and then Periwinkle asks the inevitable question, “What’s on the agenda today?”

Thanksgiving Traditions

Stinky tells her that he doesn’t think it’s a good time to travel anywhere because of the Thanksgiving holiday and because so many places are having super bad weather. He explains that he has planned an at home, educational adventure. Periwinkle rolls her eyes. She likes learning about new places when they travel, but sitting at Stinky’s house learning “stuff” doesn’t get her excited.

Luckily for Periwinkle, Stinky does not see the eye roll, as he begins telling Periwinkle what they are going to do. “As Thanksgiving is just two days away, I thought it would be fun to learn about Thanksgiving traditions in other countries.”

Periwinkle gives him a curious look, and replies, “I didn’t know other countries celebrate Thanksgiving. I thought that was totally an American tradition.”

“It is not called Thanksgiving in all the other countries. They have their own name and traditions for the celebration. The places that actually call it Thanksgiving are the United States, Canada, Grenada, Saint Lucia and Liberia,” Stinky explains.

Periwinkle puts her paws over her mouth to stifle a yawn. “Stinky, this might be interesting, but to be truthful, I am really bored by the idea. And I bet our readers will be as well. Is there something else we can do?” asks Periwinkle.

“What would you like to do?”

Thank You to Friends and Family

“Can we make some cards for our friends and family to thank them for being in our lives?” asks Periwinkle.

“Periwinkle, that is a great idea. To be honest, I was that excited about just talking about Thanksgiving. I’ll collect some supplies for us!”

The tabbies get busy making cards and chatting about some past adventures. When finished, they share their creations with each other.

Periwinkle shares her first card, which is for her mom.

 

 

“Periwinkle, your mom is going to love that,” says, Stinky. “Here’s the one I made for my mom. We pretty much had the same idea for what we wanted to say.”

 

 

“Good job, Stinky, I think our moms are going to be so excited when they see what we have made for them. I need to thank my dad too, as he helps us with lots of our adventure photographs. Should we thank our fursibs next?”

“Definitely! I’ll go first this time.”

 

 

“That’s nice, Stinky. Now it is my turn. ” says Periwinkle.

 

 

“Reesie, Raz and Noelle are really going to appreciate that, Periwinkle. You are a great sisfur. I have the most special card to share now.”

 

 

Periwinkle blushes when she sees Stinky’s card. “Stinky, it is beautiful. Thank you so much, I love it and I love you,” says Periwinkle as she throws her paws around Stinky’s neck and gives him a big hug and whisker kiss. “Here’s my card for you.”

 

 

“I love you too, Periwinkle. We are fortunate to be together and have the opportunity to travel and do so many fun things.”

Periwinkle replies, “We also are blessed to have friends and followers who enjoy our adventures as much as we do. Let’s make a card for them as well.”

“That’s a terrific idea,” says Stinky.

 

 

“Stinky, I am not too sure about that pilgrim hat, but I do think we made a nice card. Do you think our friends will like it?”

Happy Tuesday

“Yes, I am certain they will. And let’s not forget to join the Happy Tuesday blog hop at Comedy Plus, as our Tuesdays are always happy.”

 

“Purrfect, now let’s go visit those kittens and the other Kitties Blue,” says Periwinkle.

The tabbies hunt down all the other Kitties Blue, give them their cards and paw hugs as well. Then Stinky’s mom gets treats for everyone while they visit.

Too soon it is time for Periwinkle to head home. She and Stinky wish each other a happy Thanksgiving and share lots of paw hugs and whisker kisses. As Periwinkle enters the tunnel, they give each other final waves. And with a whoosh Periwinkle is headed home, and Sawyer retires to his mom and dad’s bed for a nap so he can dream about Periwinkle.

The End

 

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLX

Autumn Leaves & Waterfalls

Stinky is more excited than usual to see Periwinkle for their adventure. As he last saw her on Halloween, he’s had to wait eight days for their get together. He’s delighted when he hears the teleportation tunnel rumbling. Moments later, with a whoosh, Periwinkle is ejected right into his waiting paws. They spend a bit more time than usual paw hugging and whisker kissing before Stinky takes her paw and leads Periwinkle back into the tunnel.  

They arrive at their destination in North Carolina. When Periwinkle sees the beautiful colors in front of her, she squeals in delight. “Stinky, this is amazingly beautiful. Where are we?”

 

Two cartoon tabbies and colorful fall leaves at Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina.

 

Pisgah National Forest

“This is Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina. We’ve come to look at the autumn leaves. My mom says the leaves are the prettiest she has ever seen. She’s super old, so they must be spectacular. I know we’ve had similar fall adventures, so I hope this is okay?”

“Yes, absolutely,” replies Periwinkle. “I definitely don’t get to see this at home.”

“That is Looking Glass Rock in the background. It has an elevation of 3,969 feet and is very popular with hikers,” explains Stinky.

“We aren’t going to climb it, are we?” asks Periwinkle in a shaky voice. “I know how much you like to climb things and get up really high.”

“Nope, I think that’s too high for even me,” Stinky tells her.

 

Two cartoon tabbies and colorful fall leaves at Buck Spring Tunnel on Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina.

 

“Wow, Stinky, I can hardly believe how beautiful these leaves are,” exclaims Periwinkle.

“They certainly are. The Blue Ridge Parkway is always a great place to see flowers in the spring and colorful leaves in autumn. That’s the Buck Spring tunnel behind us. Do you want to walk through it?”

“I think I’ll pass. We don’t have a flashlight, and from here it looks pretty dark!”

First Waterfall Stop

Two cartoon tabby cats next to waterfall, called Lower Falls, in North Carolina.

 

“Oh, boy, waterfalls,” exclaims Periwinkle as she claps her paws. “I love them, and we haven’t visited any in ages.”

Stinky tells her these are called Lower Falls. He is surprised that Periwinkle has climbed higher than he has, but doesn’t say anything. He doesn’t want to call her attention to it in case she gets frightened.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats, colorful fall leaves and Looking Glass Rock.

 

“Stinky, this is even a better view of Looking Glass Rock,” says Periwinkle.

“Yes it is,” Stinky replies.

Picnic Time

Two Cartoon tabby cats sitting on a red plaid blanket and having a picnic at Living Waters waterfall below the Blue Ridge Parkway along the north fork of the French Broad River in Balsam Grove.

 

“Oh boy a picnic. Thank you Stinky. You are the most thoughtful boyfriend. I love listening to the water, and this will give us lots of time to do so while we have a snack.”

“This waterfall is called Living Waters. Right now we are below the Parkway along the north fork of the French Broad River in Balsam Grove,” Stinky replies.

“Well, it certainly is a lovely spot.”

After their snack the tabbies fall asleep listening to the falls. They only take a short nap prior to moving on to the final attraction of the day.

Dry Falls

Two cartoon tabby cats and colorful fall leaves at Dry Falls in North Carolina.

 

Before even asking where they are, Periwinkle admonishes Stinky for climbing so high. Secretly he wishes he’d said something to her when she climbed above him at Lower Falls. Stinky is tempted to blow a razzberry at her, but remains the gentleman and refrains. He tells her they are now at Dry Falls.

“That’s a funny name. This waterfall has more water than the others,” Periwinkle tells Stinky.

“The name comes from the fact that a trail lies behind the falls where we can walk without getting wet,” Stinky explains.

“Let’s go do that,” says Periwinkle.

Stinky agrees and tells her that after they go behind the falls, it is time to head back to his house. They join paws and stroll behind the waterfall giggling and enjoying each other’s company. They stop a couple of times to share whisker kisses. Then the two tabbies head to the teleportation tunnel for the speedy trip back to Stinky’s house.

Visiting the Kittens

After arriving at Stinky’s, Periwinkle says, “hi,” to Stinky’s parents. Both tabbies then head to the catio where they find Calista Jo, Audrey, Cooper Murphy and Raleigh. Bird watching seems to be on the day’s agenda, and Periwinkle and Stinky join in.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats on a catio with three other tabbies: a ginger, a brown and a buff colored one as well as a dilute tortie cat.

 

Periwinkle remarks that she is happy they have had a warm fall day for the adventure. Cooper Murphy tells her that the temperature has broken a record. The high was 83 degrees. The old high temperature for the date was 78 degrees.

Finally it’s time for Periwinkle to head home. She says “good-bye,” to all the Kitties Blue. She and Stinky spend several minutes paw hugging and whisker kissing. Then with the familiar whoosh of the teleportation tunnel, Periwinkle is on her way home.

Stinky returns to the catio to hang out in the sun with his fursibs.

The End

Periwinkle & Stinky are joining the Happy Tuesday blog hop at Comedy Plus.

A PSA from Stinky, Periwinkle & Angel Lily Olivia

 

Calico cat holding a sign telling everyone to get off their computer and go vote.

 

 

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLVIIl

The Bee & the Mouse

Stinky is ready and waiting for Periwinkle with the Halloween costumes their readers selected for them. He doesn’t want to be late for first part of their annual visit to Walter and the black cats in his care. Right on time, Periwinkle comes hurtling from the teleportation tunnel into Stinky’s waiting paws. After several whisker kisses, Periwinkle says, “Stinky, I am so anxious to see what costumes our readers selected for us!”

“I have them right here,” says Stinky, and he reveals the selections. “These two won paws down. Let’s get changed so we can show everybody.”

 

Two cartoon tabby cats, one dressed in a bee costume and one in a mouse costume with a spooky graveyard and house in the background.

 

“Oh, Stinky, I loved all the costumes we tried, but I think these are my favorites,” says Periwinkle.

“They are also my Mom’s favorites,” replies Stinky. “Personally, I sort of wanted to be the lion,” he adds.

“You can still be the lion for Halloween,” Periwinkle tells him. “Now that we’ve got our costumes, let’s get over to Walter’s to get his Wish List for this year,” adds Periwinkle.

Walter & Friends Greet the Tabbies

Periwinkle and Stinky jump back into the teleportation and are whisked away. With the usual whoosh, they arrive in a field near Walter’s house where he and some of his charges are waiting.

 

Outdoor fall scene with four black cats.

 

“Hi, Periwinkle & Stinky, I thought I’d meet you out here among the fall trees, as it is such a gorgeous day. A few of this year’s house inhabitants decided to come along. The kitten is Dusty. The kitty with the big gold eyes is Minnie, and the shy cat in the back is Stanley.”

Periwinkle gives Walter the jack-o-lantern she brought, and Stinky hands over the banner. Walter thanks them.

The tabbies then walk to the other three cats and give each a nose boop in way of greeting. After that Walter suggests they walk back to the house so Stinky and Periwinkle can meet some more of the cats and Walter can give them his Wish List.

The Black Cats’ House

 

Spooky house with eyes blinking in the windows.

 

“Well, Walter, it looks as if you have a full house again this year,” says Periwinkle.

“I always do. You know we have to be careful this time of year and keep all the black cats safe. I really hope when Halloween is over that I can get everyone adopted in time for the holidays. Then I get to have a rest and make any house repairs I need prior to kitten season.”

“We’re going to go meet some of the other kitties and then we will get your Wish List,” Stinky tells Walter.

Walter replies, “That sounds like a great idea. I know many of the cats are anxious to meet you. Oh, I almost forgot to tell you how cute your costumes are this year.”

“I sure hope the other cats don’t think I am a real mouse,” Periwinkle says through giggles. “Or that I am a real bee,” adds Stinky.

The kittens set off to meet all the current residents, and Walter goes to his desk in the house to finish his Wish List. It is extra long this year, and he is afraid he’s asking for too much but will give the tabbies his list nonetheless.

When the tabbies return, Walter presents them with his list as well as some homemade tuna treats. While they are snacking, Walter apologizes for the length of his list and tells Periwinkle and Stinky that he does not expect them to get everything on it.

Stinky takes the list and tucks it into his costume without looking at it. He assures Walter that he and Periwinkle will do their best to get everything.

When the tabbies finish their treats, it is time to say good-bye until next week when they return with the supplies. There are paw hugs and nose boops all around prior to Periwinkle and Stinky heading back to the teleportation tunnel.

Walter’s Wish List

When they arrive at their tunnel, Stinky pulls the Wish List from his costume. He and Periwinkle read through it.

 

A shopping list of food and items for cats.

 

“Oh my gosh,” exclaims Periwinkle. “ This is a huge list. I don’t think we will be able to bring everything by wagons as we usually do. I think I will need to ask my brofur, Raz, if we can load up his plane and fly everything here.”

“Periwinkle, that is an excellent idea. I am certain he will agree to help us.”

“As long as he doesn’t have a Cat Scouts’ trip, I agree,” says Periwinkle. Stinky hands the list to Periwinkle, and she puts it inside her costume.

“Let’s get going, Stinky, I’d like to have a little visit with the kittens before I have to head home.”

The tabbies walk into the teleportation tunnel paw-in-paw, and are back at Stinky’s house in a flash. They both take off their costumes and set off to look for the kittens.

Napping Kittens

 

Cartoon cat with two napping tabby kittens - one buff colored and one black

 

As usual, Audrey and Raleigh are found napping. Audrey opens her eyes briefly, but Raleigh continues to sleep. Periwinkle watches them for a while and then gives them gentle pets on the head before leaving them to continue their nap.

As she and Stinky had stuffed themselves with Walter’s homemade tuna treats, the tabbies decide to skip their usual snack and just hang out with the other Kitties Blue on the catio.

Finally it is time for Periwinkle to head home. She and Stinky share oodles of whisker kisses and paw hugs. With a wave Periwinkle enters her tunnel and is gone in a whoosh.

Stinky returns to the catio for a nice long nap.

The End

Stinky and Periwinkle are participating in the Happy Tuesday blog hop at Comedy Plus.

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLVl

An At-Home Adventure

Stinky is pacing in front of the teleportation tunnel. Once again, he is worried Periwinkle will be disappointed in their adventure when she finds out they are staying at his house. Before he has time to work himself into a frenzy, however, the teleportation tunnel starts rumbling and ejects Periwinkle with the familiar whoosh. Stinky grabs her before she tumbles head first into the kitten enclosure.

She’s giggling as he wraps her in a huge paw hug. “What’s so funny, Periwinkle?” he asks.

“Oh, the teleportation tunnel was a bit wonky today and it kept tickling me,” she replies with another giggle.

“Well, I am happy you are in such a good mood, as I am afraid we aren’t going any place fun for today’s adventure,” Stinky tells her.

Periwinkle takes Stinky’s paw and replies, “How many times do I have to tell you, I don’t care what we do as long as we are together.”

“I know, but I like to take you to interesting places,” bemoans Stinky.

“I bet you have figured out something fabulous even if we are staying put.”

Miscellaneous October 11 Holidays

“You know I often try to plan something significant for the date of our adventure, but that didn’t work out this week. But I do have a couple of fun things to do before we get to my actual plans, as there are a few ‘miscellaneous’ holidays today.”

Periwinkle claps her paws and bounces up and down. “Oh goody, I love holidays. Will there be presents?”

“Not really that kind of holidays.”

“Phooey,” replies Periwinkle. “Whatever it is, let’s get on with it!”

Pet Peeve Week

“Okay. The first is Pet Peeve Week. Do you have any pet peeves?”

“I sure do, and it actually happens to be a pet. Reesie! Raz and I were doing just fine without her,” replies Periwinkle.

“Well, at least you don’t have eight furblings! What a pain in the tush. It peeves me when they try to take my place on the bed or steal my treats. And Astrid and Misty May really set me off when they go after my food. They are not supposed to have my medicine. But my biggest peeve is when Mom and Dad forget about 11 a.m. treat time. The really gets my dander up!”

“Wow, Stinky, that’s a lot of things to be peeved about.”

“I know, but like I said, try living with eight other cats!

International Face Your Fears Day

So, today is International Face Your Fears Day. What are your fears?”

”I don’t like loud noises or strangers. I usually hide from both of those things. How about you, Stinky, what are your fears?”

“I also don’t like loud noises. I don’t hide, but I always jump.”

“Aren’t you afraid of having seizures?”

“Not really. When they are over, I don’t remember anything about them. However, that is the reason Mom asked me to stay home today. I had another one at 2 a.m. Monday morning. I only made it one week again, which really sucks.”

Periwinkle wraps Stinky in a huge paw hug. “I am so sorry. It really stinks that you have those nasty things. I wish I had a magic potion that would take them away. But then, if you’d eat your noms, I know you’d have fewer of them.”

Take Your Medicine Americans Week

“Nice segue, Periwinkle. This week is Take Your Medicine Americans Week, which definitely pertains to me. And I promise to try to do better with my eating.”

“Thank you, replies Periwinkle.

Veterinary Technicians Week

“Finally, it is Veterinary Technicians Week. Now, I personally don’t care for anybody at the veterinarian’s office, but I know my mom and dad are partial to Tomika. And she does treat all of us very well.”

“Is that it? Are we going to have our at-home adventure now?” Periwinkle asks with a look of exasperation on her face.

Playing Dress-Up for Halloween

“Yep, and it does involve something you like,” Stinky tells her.

“Oh, goody. What is it?”

“Dress-up. We are going to try on several Halloween costumes and let our readers pick which one they like best for each of us. Then when we visit Walter and the black cats in two weeks to get their Halloween Trick or Treat wish list, we can wear what our readers selected.”

“Sounds like it might be fun,” says Periwinkle and gives Stinky a wink. “You do know what I like.” Periwinkle and Stinky get busy trying on several different costumes.

Recycled Mardi Gras Costumes

 
Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky in a Halloween setting dressed in Mardi Gras costumes.

 

Lion and Flower

 
Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky in a Halloween setting dressed as a lion and a pink flower.

 

Baby Yoda and Raggedy Ann

 
Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky in a Halloween setting dressed as Baby Yoda and Raggedy Ann.

 

Bee and Mouse

 
Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky in a Halloween setting dressed as a bee and a mouse.

 

Pumpkin and Unicorn Princess 

 
Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky in a Halloween setting dressed as a pumpkin and princess unicorn.

 

“Of course, you might like to wear the ballerina outfit you wore last Thursday for our ‘Modern Dance Misadventure.’ I know you liked that one. I’ve given our readers a link to that post, so they can check you out and vote for that costume if they’d like.”

“Good idea, Stinky. I do like that outfit. I wore it for Halloween one other year, but I bet no one remembers. Stinky, do you have a favorite of the costumes you tried on today?”

“I do, but I am not going to say. I don’t want to influence the voting.”

“Good thinking. I won’t tell my favorite either. Is it time for a snack and a visit with Raleigh and Audrey?”

“You bet. The sun’s out, so let’s have our snack on the catio.”

Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky sitting on a cat tree with tabby kittens, one buff colored and one grey.The tabbies take their snack out to the catio where they share with all of Stinky’s furblings. When they finish, Periwinkle plays with Raleigh and Audrey for a little while, but soon it is time for her to head home. After many whisker kisses, paw hugs and whispered, “I love yous,” Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel and with a whoosh is on her way home.

Stinky heads to his dad’s chair for a nice, long nap.

The End

The tabbies will be hopping over to Comedy Plus for Happy Tuesday. You can join them by clicking on the badge.

 

Please leave a comment and let Stinky and Periwinkle know which costume you like best for each of them. Thank you.

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLIV

Stinky is ready and waiting when the teleportation tunnel shoots Periwinkle right into his paws with that familiar whooshing sound. As they often do, the tabbies begin giggling and then whisker kissing. After a few moments, Periwinkle pulls back and looks Stinky up and down. She asks, “Are you okay? I heard you had a seizure on Sunday!”

Stinky replies, “I am fine. I had all day yesterday to rest, and I am ready to have some fun.”

Periwinkle claps her paws together and says, “Oh goodie, I am too. What’s on the agenda?”

“Do you remember when we visited the caverns in Luray, Virginia?”

“Of course I do. They were so gorgeous!”

“Well, we are returning there to go to the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum. I thought it might be a fun tie-in to an event that occurred on September 27, 1908. That’s when the First Ford Model T was produced.”

“I remember you mentioning we would return to see the cars. Sounds like fun. Let’s go,” says Periwinkle and leads Stinky back into the teleportation tunnel.

They arrive moments later.

Car and Carriage Caravan Museum

 

Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky, in front of the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum

 

“I know that we won’t be able to see everything today, Periwinkle, as there are more than 140 modes of transportation on display, dating from 1725 to 1941.”

“Well, we better get a move on then, so we can at least see a few,” Periwinkle says as she takes Stinky’s paw and marches into the museum.

Stinky tells Periwinkle that the museum opened in October, 1957, and is one of America’s most exceptional displays of rare, vintage vehicles. H.T.N. Graves, the former president of Luray Caverns Corporation built the museum. In the early 1950’s he and his staff set out to find and purchase a collection of modes of transportation important to the history of travel.

1931 Pierce-Arrow

“Stinky, I never heard of a Pierce-Arrow. Do they still make these somewhere?”

 

Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky, in front of the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum with a yellow 1931 Pierce-Arrow car.

 

“Not anymore, but they were made in America, in Buffalo, New York, from 1901 to 1938. They were best known for large, luxury cars like this one, but they also made commercial trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, boats, camp trailers and fire trucks.”

“Well, this car definitely looks luxurious, and I really like the color and that it’s a convertible.” says Periwinkle. Then she takes Stinky’s paw and leads him to a really luxurious car.

1927 Mercedes Benz

 

Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky, in front of the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum with 1927 Mercedes Benz.

 

“Oh, Stinky, look at the vintage bride and groom. I think it is amusing how so many of the cars and displays have these mannequins. But I definitely like the looks of this car.”

“It is supposedly one of the rarest in the collection, Periwinkle. Only eight were ever built!”

“Wow, that sure does make it special,” Periwinkle replies.

1925  Rolls-Royce

 

Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky, in front of the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum with a 1925 Rolls-Royce.

 

“Stinky, I wonder why this was called the Silver Ghost Town Car?”

“The only info I could find, Periwinkle, said that the name came about because of its ghost-like quietness. I also discovered that production began in England in 1907 but was stopped during World War I. After the war, a second plant was opened in Springfield, Massachusetts, and a total of 7,874 Silver Ghosts were produced from 1907 to 1936, including 1,701 built in the Springfield plant. Supposedly some 1,500 are still around.”

“Can you imagine a car from today lasting that long, Stinky?”

“Not a chance, Periwinkle!”

“Hey, Stinky, look at this,” Periwinkle says while tugging Stinky toward a different type of vehicle.

1914 Ford Model T Milk Truck

 

Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky, in front of the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum with a 1914 Model T Ford milk truck

 

“Stinky, this is so cool, as we are celebrating the production of the first Model T today. And it operated right here in Virginia.”

“Winchester is less than 40 miles from where Teddy lives. I bet they had trucks just like this delivering there.”

“That’s fun to think about, Stinky; though, he and his parents wouldn’t have been around then.”

Stinky rolls his eyes at Periwinkle. He’s lucky she doesn’t see him.

1935 Hispano-Suiza

“Hey, Periwinkle, look at this one. It makes me think of a gangster’s car.”

 

Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky, in front of the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum with a 1935 Hispano-Suiza car.

 

“Do you think there are any bullet holes in it?” asks Periwinkle.

“I doubt it. I don’t know if there were gangsters in Spain, which is where the company started in 1904 in Barcelona. The brand is owned by four generations of the Suqué Mateu family. They are still making cars today, and they are super cool looking. If any of our readers want to seem them, they should check out the official website.”

1927 Bugatti Grand Sport

 

Cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle and Stinky, in front of the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum with a yellow 1927 Bugatti Grand Sport.

“Stinky, I like this one. Do you think we can drive it back to your house?”
“I don’t know how to drive, Periwinkle. Do you? I cannot believe you climbed in there. You are always the one getting after me for climbing on and in things.”
“I just couldn’t help myself. This car is so cute. Do you think it will fit in the teleportation tunnel?”
Stinky just giggles and tells Periwinkle about the Bugatti. “The car you are in could reach 100 mph. The original company was founded in 1909 in the German town of Molsheim. They built race cars and won lots of races. They also built road cars, like this one, and airplane engines. Due to money problems the company was forced to shut down in 1952. In 1987 the company was bought by an Italian who built one supercar. The company shut down again in 1995. It is now owned by Volkswagon.”
“Stinky this has been a really terrific adventure, but I can see we’ve barely seen a fraction of what’s here. My paws are getting tired, however. Do you think we could get a snack and revisit this museum again sometime?”asks Periwinkle.
“Of course, sweetie.”
Periwinkle replies, “Let’s go back to your house, so I can visit with the kittens and the other Kitties Blue. We can get a snack there if that’s okay?”
“Sounds purrfect to me,” Stinky tells her and takes her paw. They head back into the teleportation tunnel and with a whoosh are on their way back to Stinky’s house.
The End

Join Periwinkle and Stinky at Comedy Plus for Happy Tuesday by clicking on the badge.

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLII

What Should We Do Today?

Stinky is more than a little worried about his rather sketchy plans for today’s adventure. He’s really hoping Periwinkle won’t be disappointed. As he paces back and forth in front of the tunnel, Stinky has to continually chase Audrey and Raleigh away as they think the tunnel is a fun place to play. Though, they are pains in his tush; he doesn’t want them whooshing off to parts unknown.

Finally, Periwinkle arrives, and the whoosh from the tunnel scares the kittens away. She and Stinky share many paw hugs and whisker kisses. Then comes the moment Stinky has been dreading when Periwinkle asks, “What fun thing are we doing today, Stinky?”

“Periwinkle, after more than 150 adventures, sometimes it is really difficult to come up with a unique and exciting adventure, especially as I have a big imagination but a very tiny budget. I thought we could do something for Meow Like a Pirate Day, but that is still six days from now.”

“I understand, I often have the same problem coming up with cool ideas,” replies Periwinkle.

“Then I thought we could celebrate my mom’s stepmother Terry’s birthday, but she passed away like nine years ago. She would have been 98 today, and as much as I enjoy a good party, I never did get to meet her.”

Pet Birth Defect Awareness Day

“My next idea was that we could have a PSA about Pet Birth Defect Awareness Day, but that could be a bit of a downer.”

“I don’t know Stinky. That sounds pretty important. Your mom and dad have no idea what causes your seizures, but since they started when you were just a kitten, it could be because of a birth defect. Don’t you think pet parents should know about those things?” asks Periwinkle.

“That’s true. So how about we give our readers the link to a website where they can find more information?”

“I can get behind that.”

“Okay, here it is: Pet Birth Defect Awareness Day,”replies Stinky.

All About Chocolate

Periwinkle & Stinky Cover of the book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl.“Finally I settled on a combination of Roald Dahl Day, Milton S. Hershey’s birthday and International Chocolate Day. They are all related, as Hershey is a huge manufacturer of chocolate and Dahl wrote the children’s book, Charlie in the Chocolate Factory.”

“But Stinky, chocolate is poisonous to cats,” says Periwinkle.

Stinky giggles and replies, “That’s where it comes in handy to be cartoon cats. After all, if we were real cats, we wouldn’t have been able to have most of our adventures.”

“I guess that’s true, but I think we should share the website for the Pet Poison Hot Line. And now, what is your actual plan for today?” asks Periwinkle.

“Along with the holidays I already mentioned, it’s also National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day, so I thought we could do just that and share some yummy recipes made with chocolate.”

“Well I do enjoy a good snack,” replies Periwinkle. I think chocolate covered Temptations would be tasty, and I know by brofur, Raz, would like that.

Fudge

 

Periwinkle & Stinky: Cartoon tabby cats in aprons and chef hats at counter with bowl, spoons, chocolate chips and recipe book.

 

“I think we can do a bit better than that. My dad is a big fan of fudge, so I thought we’d share the easy fudge recipe my mom uses.”

Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Fudge 

 

Dark chocolate, walnut fudge squares.

 

2 1/4 to 3 cups Ghirardelli semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
14 oz condensed milk, sweetened
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

“My mom melts her chocolate chips in the microwave, taking them out frequently to stir, so they don’t dry out or burn. When  melted she stirs in the other ingredients (except nuts). When it is all mixed, she adds the nuts and pours it into a square dish treated with cooking spray. (Butter, margarine or Crisco can be used to prepare dish.) Then it goes in the fridge for a couple hours to set so it can be cut in squares (approximately five dozen pieces) and stored in an airtight container.”

“That does sound yummy, Stinky,” Periwinkle says as she licks her lips. I just hope Mr. Hershey’s fans won’t be upset we didn’t use his chocolate in our recipe.”

“Periwinkle, his chocolate chips do work just as well.”

Agustus Gloop Fudge

“As we are celebrating Roald Dahl’s birthday, I also want to share a second fudge recipe. It is from his book, Charlie in the Chocolate Factory. It is a bit more complicated, and as it requires the stove, all our kitty friends should ask for help from one of their humans when making it.”

 

chocolate fudge squares with white topping

 

4 ½ cups sugar
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
½ cup butter
2 12-oz packages chocolate chips
7 oz marshmallow creme
4 1.5 oz Hershey bars

Boil sugar, milk, and butter for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. In a separate bowl, mix together chocolate chips, marshmallow creme and chocolate bars. Pour milk mixture over chocolate mixture and stir until melted and combined. Pour into 9×13 pan. Store in fridge once cooled.

“So, what’s next, Stinky?”

“Well, Periwinkle, you know our friend Teddy loves bacon, and there are lots of good bacon and chocolate recipes. Let’s invite him over to share one.“

“Excellent idea, Stinky!”

Teddy Joins Periwinkle & Stinky

“Hi, Periwinkle & Stinky. Thanks for inviting me to join you. I’ve got a great recipe I shared on by blog (Two Spoiled Cats) on June 5, 2021. It’s another sweet treat.”

 

Periwinkle & Stinky: Cartoon tabby cats in aprons and chef hats at counter with bowl, spoons, chocolate chips, recipe book and their friend, orange tabby cat, Teddy.

Bacon-Pecan Chocolate Truffles

 

Bacon-Pecan Chocolate Truffles

 

INGREDIENTS:
1 package (12 ounces) dark chocolate chips
6 tablespoons butter, cubed
1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
8 bacon strips, cooked and finely chopped
COATING:
1 cup white baking chips
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 teaspoon maple flavoring
1-3/4 cups chopped pecans, toasted
DIRECTIONS:

Place dark chocolate chips in a small bowl. In a small saucepan, heat butter and cream just to simmering. Pour over chocolate; stir until smooth. Stir in bacon. Cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally. Refrigerate, covered, 1-1/2 hours or until firm enough to shape.

For coating, place baking chips in a small bowl. In a small saucepan, bring cream just to a boil. Pour over baking chips; stir with a whisk until smooth. Stir in maple flavoring. Cool completely, stirring occasionally, about 1-1/2 hours.
Shape dark chocolate mixture into 1-in. balls. Dip truffles in maple mixture; allow excess to drip off. Roll in pecans; place on a waxed paper-lined 15x10x1-in. baking pan. Refrigerate until set. Store between layers of waxed paper in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

“Wow, Teddy, that’s a real winner. Thank you,” say Periwinkle and Stinky in unison as they clap heir paws.

“You’re welcome. I always enjoy joining my friends in the kitchen.” The three tabbies hug each other and Teddy returns to the tunnel for his trip home.

Everything S’Mores

“I know Cooper Murphy shared some really nommy s’mores at Cat Scout’s recently. Let’s share that recipe too. I think everybody knows how to make s’mores, so we can just share a photo and list of ingredients,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

 

S'mores with marshmallow, banana, strawberries, peanut butter, chocolate squares, graham crackers and chocolate chip cookies

3  toasted marshmallows
2 graham crackers
2 chocolate wafer cookies
1 sliced strawberry
creamy peanut butter
sliced bananas
2 chocolate chip cookies
2 dark chocolate squares (Ghiardelli or Hershey’s are best)

“Stinky, I am not certain I could get my mouth around one of those, but it sure does look scrumptious. All this has been a lot of work. I think we should take a break and have some kitty approved treats. What do you think?”

“I am definitely ready for that, Periwinkle. Let’s go to the front porch so we can have some alone time.”

 

Cartoon tabbies, Periwinkle and Stinky, on front porch with cat treats.

 

“Stinky, I love your front porch. It is so comfy. And I always enjoy our alone time.”

Stinky leans over and gives Periwinkle a whisker kiss. “That’s my favorite time of all, Periwinkle.”

“Do you think our friends will enjoy today’s adventure?” Periwinkle asks Stinky.

“If they like chocolate and decide to make one or more of these treats for themselves and their families, I think they will,” Stinky tells her.

The two tabbies spend the remainder of the afternoon talking, laughing and holding paws until it is time for Periwinkle to head home. After saying her good-byes to all Stinky’s fursibs and his parents, Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel. She and Stinky blow each other a final kiss, and she is gone in a whoosh.

The End

 

 

Periwinkle and Stinky are participating in Happy Tuesday at Comedy Plus. To join them there click on the badge below.

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CL

The 150th Adventure

Stinky is waiting by the teleportation tunnel for Periwinkle when he hears the familiar whoosh, and she comes tumbling out. They fall into each other’s paws and share oodles of whisker kisses. When they are finally finished, Periwinkle asks what is on the agenda for their adventure. When Stinky replies, “nothing,” she is dumbfounded.

Periwinkle finally speaks, “What do you mean nothing? This is our 150th adventure. We should be doing something extra special. Am I just supposed to get back in the tunnel and go home?”

“Of course not, silly. I just mean that we are not going anywhere or doing anything special. We are going to do exactly what you have been wanting. We are staying here and playing with Audrey and Raleigh.”

Periwinkle begins jumping up and down and clapping her paws together. “Oh, goody. Thank you, Stinky. That is special, and I think purrfect for our 150th adventure. Can you believe it? In a few more weeks, we will have been adventuring for three years?”

Stinky agrees about that being a huge milestone and then tells Periwinkle that the kittens are already in the bedroom waiting for them. He continues, “I hope they’re awake. They seem to snooze almost non-stop and do most of their playing at night while the rest of us are sleeping.”

Following in Stinky’s Footsteps

“I bet you’re right,” replies Periwinkle. “I heard about the daring escape of Saturday night. Have you been giving them pointers? I remember that before you took your walkabout, you had escaped to the roof a few times!”

Stinky’s face reddens, and he offers to show Periwinkle the photo Dad Tom took of his discovery on Sunday morning in the hopes of distracting her.

“Oh, yes please,” Periwinkle replies to his offer.

“I am sorry that the photo is so blurry,” Stinky tells her.

 

 

“Stinky, that is so funny. What do you think happened?”

“Mom and Dad think one of us, probably Kizmet, jumped on the top of the enclosure from the table and that caused it to fold up.”

“Wow, I guess it’s a good thing Audrey and Raleigh escaped. They could have been squished,” replies Periwinkle and suggests they get started with playtime.

Kitten Playtime

When Stinky and Periwinkle get to the bedroom, the kittens are sleeping under the bed. Periwinkle asks Stinky if he thinks they can tempt them to come out with treats. He tells her the kittens are not impressed by treats and they will probably have to wait them out. Not having any patience for that, Periwinkle gets a wand toy and heads to the bed. She finally entices Audrey to come out. She immediately heads for one of the cat trees and Raleigh follows.

Periwinkle hops up on the tree with Audrey and Raleigh, and Stinky joins them.

 

 

“Stinky are you going to come up? Audrey’s trying to see you through that hole in the tree.”

“I’m good here, thanks.”

“Maybe that’s a good idea. Audrey is sharpening up her kitten teeth. You and your fursibs might want to stay clear,” Periwinkle giggles as she tells Stinky.

 

 

“Stinky, the kittens sure enjoy playing on the cat trees. It is great that you have two in this room.

 

 

“Raleigh is a goofy cat,” remarks Periwinkle. “I sure hope he doesn’t fall out of the tree on his head.”

 

 

Tower Toy

“Stinky, I am going to see if I can get them to play with the balls on this tower toy.”

Stinky replies, “That’s one of Audrey’s favorites. I am certain you can get her to play.”

 

 

“She’s really good, Stinky. It looks as if Raleigh wants to challenge her.”

“Probably to a wrasslin’ match. They spend a lot of time throwing each other to the floor and letting loose with bunny kicks.”

Periwinkle giggles imagining what a sight that must be.

Boxes

“The kittens have never experienced boxes, so Mom put some out. Dad always says that if one wants to catch a cat, they only need to get a box. Let’s see if it works with Raleigh and Audrey.”

 

 

“Come on, Audrey, jump in. Boxes are lots of fun for playing and napping,” Periwinkle tells her.

“Hey, look, Periwinkle. Both kittens have gotten in a box.”

 

 

Periwinkle claps her paws together. “Just think of all the fun they are going to have in the future when boxes arrive at your house.”

“Yes, but they’ll have seven other Kitties Blue to compete with,” Stinky replies.

Wand Toy

“Audrey, come try this wand toy,” coaxes Periwinkle. “You can get it if you jump!”

 

 

Then it’s Raleigh’s turn to try the wand toy.

 

 

“Look, Periwinkle, Raleigh caught the fish! He’s looking at you. He wants to make certain you’ve seen him.”

“Raleigh, that’s terrific! You did a wonderful job,” Periwinkle claps and praises the kitten.

Mouse Game

The kittens have never played the Mouse for Cats game, so Stinky asks his dad to set it up, and he introduces Audrey to it.

 

 

“Stinky, look she’s a natural. She figured it out immediately. Where’s Raleigh? We need to introduce him to the mice.” Periwinkle and Stinky begin looking around for Raleigh. Finally, Periwinkle finds him under the bed where he has fallen asleep. “Looks like he is worn out, Stinky.”

Moments later Audrey joins Raleigh. “Well it appears as if they’re done for the day, Periwinkle. This is the longest and hardest I have ever seen them play. Let’s go to the catio and have a snack with the other Kitties Blue and leave these two to nap.” Stinky takes Periwinkle by the paw and leads her to the catio.

“Stinky, thank you so much for arranging for us to spend our 150th adventure with the kittens. I have waited an entire month for this, and I had such a great time showing them new things.” Periwinkle gives Stinky a big paw hug and whisker kiss, which he happily reciprocates.

Unfortunately the time for Periwinkle to head home arrives. The tabbies spend lots more time hugging and kissing before Periwinkle enters the tunnel, giving Stinky a final wave, and she is gone in a whoosh.

Being just as tired as the kittens, Stinky returns to the catio for a nice long snooze accompanied by dreams of his wonderful girlfriend.

The End

Periwinkle, Stinky, Audrey and Raleigh will be joining the Happy Tuesday blog hop at Comedy Plus.

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CXLVIII

Periwinkle’s Arrival

Stinky is distracted by the kittens and almost misses the whoosh from the teleportation tunnel. Luckily, he hears it in time to catch Periwinkle as she comes tumbling out. She is giggling and says that she got tickled by the whoosh! Despite the giggling fit, she and Stinky manage to share some paw hugs and whisker kisses. When she calms down, she tells Stinky that she is ready for a day of playing with Raleigh and Audrey. Stinky, however has other plans.

“I’m sorry, Periwinkle, maybe we can play with them when we return from our adventure,” Stinky tells her. Periwinkle looks crestfallen, but she doesn’t say anything. She just takes Stinky’s paw and says, “Alrighty then, where are we going?” Stinky doesn’t reply but leads her back into the tunnel, and with another whoosh, they are gone.

Graceland – Memphis, Tennessee

 

Periwinkle Stinky Graceland - exterior of house

 

They emerge from the tunnel in front of a huge mansion. “Ooh, Stinky,” this is gorgeous,” says Periwinkle. “Where are we?”

“This is Graceland, home of Elvis Presley,” Stinky replies.

I thought he was dead,” says Periwinkle.

Now it is Stinky’s turn to giggle. “Yes, he is. In fact today is the 45th anniversary of his death, so I thought it would be a good occasion to visit. His home is open for tours and a very popular destination for Elvis fans.”

“Well, let’s get a move on. I want to get back to your house in plenty of time to play with Audrey and Raleigh.” Exasperated, Stinky, takes her paw and leads the way into the house. For the life of him, he cannot imagine why Periwinkle is so fascinated by the silly kittens.

Foyer

 

“Wow, Stinky, look at that chandelier. It is beautiful.”

“Yes, it is, Periwinkle, I think it would be fun to swing from it, Stinky says as he jumps to the bannister!”

“Stinky, get down immediately. You are going to get us thrown out of here before we see anything!” Stinky does as he is told, and from the foyer, they move to the peacock living room.

White Lounge (Peacock Living Room)

 

Periwinkle’s eyes light up when she sees the stained glass. Stinky tells her that his mom and dad have a stained glass peacock in their bathroom, and she can see it when they return to his house if she can tear herself away from the kittens. They both decide to hop up into the two comfy chairs for a few minutes as they look around.

Jungle Room

 

The two move on to what Elvis called his den, but what was labeled the Jungle Room when tours began at Graceland. “Stinky, I don’t get this room. Couldn’t Elvis just go outside whenever he wanted?” Stinky tells Periwinkle, “Supposedly he created this tropical man cave to remind himself of the time he spent in Hawaii. And he recorded his last two albums in this room.”

“I do like the waterfall,” says Periwinkle.

“Come on, Periwinkle, let’s check out Elvis’ parent’s bedroom.”

Vernon and Gladys Presley’s Bedroom

 

“It is very elegant, isn’t it, Stinky? But I am surprised at how low-key it is compared to the other rooms,” comments Periwinkle. Stinky replies, “Maybe his parents weren’t as flamboyant as Elvis. His grandmother, Minnie Mae Presley, also used this bedroom and died here at age 90.”

The tabbies leave the bedroom and move on to the dining room.

Dining Room

 

“Stinky, I really liked the peacock living room, but I think this is my favorite room. Everything is so sparkly,” gushes Periwinkle.

“And this has an even bigger and brighter chandelier,” declares Stinky, as he contemplates how to access it. Knowing exactly what he is thinking, Periwinkle grabs his collar, shakes her paw at him and tells him he better not try it or she’ll clobber him.

Still pouting, Stinky takes Periwinkle’s paw and leads her to the basement.

Pool Room

 

“Holy cow, this is insane. What’s with the walls and ceiling?” asks Periwinkle.

“They are covered in pleated fabric, in fact 300 yards of it,” Stinky tells her. “The remaining 50 yards were used to upholster the furniture. And the stained glass lights were custom made for the room.”

“And you better not be thinking of climbing on them. I am quite certain you shouldn’t even be on the table,” admonishes Periwinkle.

Stinky heaves a huge sigh. “I just want to bat the balls around a little. You never want me to have any fun.”

“We could have fun playing with the kittens,” Periwinkle tells him. “Sheesh, is that all you can think about?” asks Stinky. He then promises Periwinkle they will head back to his house after they see just a couple of other things.

Elvis: The Entertainer Career Museum

 

“Stinky, this is incredible. I have never seen anything like this. Look at all the fancy costumes and records. Amazing.”

“I do know a little trivia about his recordings, Periwinkle. Elvis earned 171 gold, 94 platinum and 34 multi-platinum discs, more than any other artist. And this museum is the world’s largest and most comprehensive Elvis museum in the world.”

“I can believe that,” claims Periwinkle.

Stinky takes Periwinkle paw and leads her outside to where Elvis and his mother, father and grandmother are buried.

Meditation Garden

 

“Don’t get upset with me, Periwinkle. I got special permission for us to come inside the fence.”

“Stinky, I am sorry if you think I am upset. I just try to keep us out of trouble when I can. Thank you for getting permission before leaping the fence. It is amazing all the mementoes people have left here. They must have really loved Elvis,” says Periwinkle.

“He was and still is quite beloved with oodles of fans,” states Stinky.

“Before we leave, Periwinkle, I’d like to get a couple more photos.”

 

 

“So is it time to go back to your house and see the kittens?” Periwinkle asks. Stinky doesn’t reply but leads Periwinkle to the teleportation tunnel, and they are off to Stinky’s house.

Spending Time with Audrey & Raleigh

 

 

“Oh, Stinky. They are so adorable. Do you think we can wake them up so I can play with them?” asks Periwinkle.

“If you really want to, Mom will take them into the bedroom. They get a couple of hours play time in there each day.”

“Oh, goody! Yes, please!”

 

 

“Audrey, don’t you want to come down and play with me? I promise to be nice. Stinky, Audrey is playing hard to get. Let’s get a snack. Maybe she’ll want to play later.”

Stinky and Periwinkle go to the catio for a snack and a visit with Stinky’s other fursibs. Unfortunately, when they finish, Audrey and Raleigh have returned to their enclosure and are napping. Periwinkle remarks, “Kittens sure do sleep a lot. Maybe they’ll want to play the next time I come.”

Stinky, just nods. The two tabbies spend several minutes sharing paw hugs and whisker kisses before Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel. The two wave as the tunnel takes Periwinkle away in a whoosh.

Stinky returns to the catio for a nap and dreams of his beautiful girl friend.

The End

Periwinkle, Stinky, Audrey & Raleigh are joining the Happy Tuesday blog hop hosted by Comedy Plus.