Happy Tuesday

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLXXXIX

Periwinkle’s Arrival

Stinky is super excited for today’s adventure, especially as he and Periwinkle didn’t have one last week. He’s bouncing around the foyer waiting for Periwinkle’s arrival when she comes tumbling out of the teleportation tunnel. Before she can say a word, Stinky grabs her paw and leads her back into the tunnel for a quick trip to downtown Roanoke. When they arrive, Periwinkle is breathless from the quick turn-around. She is finally able to ask Stinky, “Where are we?”

The Virginia Museum of Transportation

“This is The Virginia Museum of Transportation, and we are going to visit the Queen of Steam,” Stinky replies.

Periwinkle gives him a quizzical look, to which Stinky does not respond. He just takes her paw and leads her through the building to the railroad tracks behind. That is when Periwinkle sees what he is referring to, and her mouth falls open in awe. ”Holy cow, Stinky, I think that is the biggest thing I have ever seen.”

The Queen of Steam

“That is the Norfolk & Western (N&W) Class J 611 Steam Locomotive, which was built here in the N&Ws East End Shops 73 years ago. It originally carried passenger cars between Norfolk, Virginia, and Cincinnati, Ohio, and also ferried the Southern Railway’s (SOU) passenger trains between Lynchburg, Virginia, and Bristol, Tennessee. The 611 has been in Pennsylvania for the past four years. It arrived back in Roanoke just 10 days ago,” Stinky explains.

Two cartoon tabby cats standing in front of a Class J #611 stream locomotive.

A Tour & a Few Facts

As they walk toward the locomotive, Stinky tells Periwinkle that of the 14 J Class locomotives built between 1940 and 1950, the 611 is the only one still in existence. It was first retired from service in 1959. All the others were taken out of service in 1958 and 1959, as the railroad began to experiment with diesel-fueled locomotives. Upon retirement, the 611 was donated to the Museum.

In 1982, J611 was restored to operation by the Norfolk Southern Railway (NS), N&W’s successor. It became the main line star of the NS steam program. It pulled excursion trains throughout the eastern United States.

Two cartoon tabby cats standing by the wheels of the Class J #611 locomotive.

“Wow, Stinky, these wheels are huge. How much do you think the locomotive weighs? It must be a lot if it needs such huge wheels.”

“Just the locomotive weighs 494,000 pounds which is equivalent to 224.1 tons,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

“That number is so big, I find it incomprehensible,” replies Periwinkle

“Come on, Periwinkle, let’s check out the front.”

Two tabby cats sitting on the front of the Class J #611 locomotive

“Stinky, do you really think it is okay for us to climb up here?”

“These are actually steps behind us, and I don’t see any signs telling us we can’t,” Stinky tells Periwinkle. He also tells here that the streamlined appearance was designed by N&W Tool Supervisor, Franklin C. Noel.

The tabbies hop down after a few minutes to check out the inside of the locomotive.

Two tabby cats inside the engine room of the Class J #611 locomotive.

Periwinkle starts to get nervous when she sees Stinky eyeing the controls. “Don’t you dare touch those. You do not know how to drive a train, and I am certain that would get us in trouble,” Periwinkle admonishes Stinky. She then asks him how fast the locomotive can go? Stinky tells her that the maximum speed is 80 to 110 miles per hour.

Restoration & Excursions

Stinky explains that the 611 was retired again in late 1994, when NS ended its steam program. But, in early 2013, the Museum helped raise $3.5 million from 3,000 donors to once again restore J611 to operating condition. After a year of restoration work at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer, North Carolina, the locomotive returned to excursion service in mid-2015.

In 2017, the Virginia General Assembly designated the 611, also known as the Spirit of Virginia, as the official state steam locomotive. In 2019 and 2021-2023, No. 611 visited the Strasburg Rail Road (SRC) in Strasburg, Pennsylvania, running short tourist excursion trains in the Pennsylvania Dutch countryside.

“I don’t know if the 611 is now back in Roanoke permanently, but the plan is to begin offering excursions again later this summer. If that happens, I know my parents would want to take one,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

“Oh, so would I,” replies Periwinkle.

“Okay, I promise to watch for news of any scheduled trips,” Stinky tells her.

Other Railway Cars at the Museum

“Stinky, can we check out a few of these other train cars?” asks Periwinkle.

“Sure, where do you want to start?”

Periwinkle points to a green passenger car.

Two cartoon tabby cats sitting on the back step of a vintage, green railway passenger car.

“Periwinkle, did you know that politicians used to take trains when they were campaigning. These trips were called ‘whistle stop tours.’ The politician would make a series of quick appearances or speeches at small town railway stations over a short period of time. They would stand on the platform above us and give their campaign speech.”

“That is super interesting, Stinky. Let’s go check out that caboose next,” suggests Periwinkle.

Two cartoon tabby cats standing in the doorway of a caboose.

“Stinky, why don’t most trains have cabooses anymore?”

“There are a few reasons. Trains became really long and the conductor could no longer see the entire train from the caboose. Also, ends of freight trains now are monitored by remote radio equipment called ‘End of Train’ devices, or EOTs. The small boxes fit over the rear coupler and are coupled into the train’s air brake line.”

“That sounds very technical, but I think I understand,” replies Periwinkle.

A Final Memory Photo

“Periwinkle, I am not exactly sure what this sign means, but I think it would be a fun place for a memory photo.”

“That sounds cool. Let’s do it.”

Two cartoon tabby cats in front of a sign painted on the Class J #611 locomotive, which reads, "Stocker Slides Removed from This Tender Be Careful of exposed and Black Smoke is Waste Be Careful"

After their photo, the tabbies hop down and head to the teleportation tunnel for the return trip to Stinky’s house.

At Stinky’s House

When Periwinkle and Stinky arrive at his house, they tell his parents and fursibs all about their adventure. Then, Stinky’s mom fixes them a snack, which they enjoy on the front porch. Finally it is time for Periwinkle. to return home. The tabbies share lots of whisker kisses and paw hugs before Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel. Finally, with one last wave, she enters and is gone in a whoosh.

Stinky heads to the catio for a nap and dreams of Periwinkle.

The End

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

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLXXXII

A Lame Plan

Periwinkle arrives slightly early for this week’s adventure taking Stinky by surprise. He doesn’t have any time to even worry about whether or not Periwinkle will enjoy what he’s planned. Unfortunately he’s not near the tunnel when she comes tumbling out. But when he hears the whoosh, he quickly hurries to help her up.

After several whisker kisses and paw hugs, Stinky asks, “Periwinkle, did you know that today is National Pet Day?”

“No, I didn’t. Are we going to spend the day petting each other and your fursibs?”

“No, and celebrating it isn’t what I originally planned, but my mom said what I wanted to do is lame.”

“What was that Stinky?” asks Periwinkle.

“I had colored some Easter eggs and asked one of our resident bunnies to hide them for us to find,” explains Stinky.

Cartoon tabby cat with a real bunny and an Easter basket with decorated eggs.

“I think that would have been fun Stinky, but if we aren’t going to do that, what is the plan?”

National Pet Day

National Pet Month/Day badge.

“National Pet Day is an annual event celebrating all of our friends with fur, fins and feathers. I thought we could give our friends some ideas of how to spend it. We’ll concentrate on cat activities, as you and I are felines,” Stinky explains.

“Oh, I think that is an excellent idea! Can I go first?”

“Of course,” replies Stinky.

Treat Time

“This is especially for you and my brofur, Raz. Pet parents can give their cat a few extras of his favorite treat, but they shouldn’t let him help himself. He might hork. I know both you and Raz have helped yourselves on more than one occasion.”

“Periwinkle, I am certain I have never done that,” exclaims Stinky.

“Then what is this?” asks Periwinkle showing him the evidence.

Cartoon tabby cat with jars of cat trees, which have been knocked onto the floor.

“I’m certain those fell off the counter all on their own,” argues Stinky. Periwinkle just rolls her eyes.

“Periwinkle, how about getting your cat some fresh or dried catnip?”

“That’s a good one, Stinky. Let’s see if Astrid will share some of her’s with us!”

Two cartoon tabby cats with a real tortoise shell cat and a sprig of catnip.

“I think we’re going to have to sneak some while she’s looking away, Periwinkle.”

Play Time

“Spending additional time today playing with your cat is another good idea,” suggests Stinky. Your human can throw your favorite mousie or other toy for you to retrieve. Mau liked doing that,” Stinky tells Periwinkle. The red dot (laser) toy and wand toy are fun as well. One of our favorite toys at my house is a bird that hangs from an elastic cord in the doorway. Raleigh particularly likes to play with it.”

Ginger tabby cat playing with a hanging yellow bird toy and being watched by two cartoon tabby cats.

“Hey, Raleigh, give us a turn,” Periwinkle shouts. Raleigh totally ignores them.

TV Watching

“That really does look like fun, Stinky. You know, lots of cats like to watch TV. I know there are lots of shows on about animals that any cat would enjoy. Here’s a few: The Zoo from Inside, My Pack Life, The Aquarium and Too Cute Cats. All are on Discovery+. World’s Funniest Animals is on The CW, and Animal Clips is on National Geographic. There are dozens of others.”

“They also should check out Animal Planet as well as YouTube and Instagram,” says Stinky. “Also, my sisfur, Kizmet, enjoys sports shows with lots of movement and balls, like volleyball, basketball and soccer. She even enjoys Paralympic tennis.”

Grey cat sitting with paws outstretched and resting on the television while it watches Paralympic tennis.

“Stinky, I can see that Kizmet actually has her eyes right on the ball. That is so cool! I bet lots of other cats would enjoy sports as well.”

Going Outside

“Some cats like to go for a walk on a leash or a ride in a stroller. That would be fun for our readers who live in places where spring has actually arrived. And both Misty May and Kizmet have gone for bike rides with our dad,” adds Stinky.

“Stinky, Kizmet just invited me to go with her for a stroller ride.”

“That’s cool. Can I come too?”

“Nope, this is just for girls,” Periwinkle replies.

Grey cat with a cartoon tabby cat in a purple stroller.

“Wow, Stinky, that was really fun. You need to try it sometime. I’m sorry we left you out today.”

Video Games

“I guess it’s okay, Periwinkle. I did come up with another idea while you were gone. There are fun video games for cats, like Mouse for Cats, Cat Fishing 2 and Cat Fishing Simulator.”

“I saw your mom’s post, ‘Can Cat’s Cooperate,’ from yesterday with Cooper Murphy, Astrid and Audrey playing Mouse for Cats. It really looked like fun. Hey, Stinky, it looks like Cooper is playing now. Maybe he’ll let me join him.”

Cartoon tabby cat and a sleeping orange tabby cat with a nearby iPad displaying the Mouse for Cats game.

“Cooper Murphy appears to have fallen asleep. Come play with me, Stinky.”

“I think we should finish our list first and then we can do whatever you want,” Stinky replies.

“You’re right,” Periwinkle tells him.

“I have a sort of silly idea, Periwinkle. Some animals really love snuggling down into warm laundry, like my sisfur, Calista Jo. Humans could do a load of laundry today so their kitty could curl up when it comes out of the dryer nice and warm.”

Cartoon tabby cat looking on as a dilute tortoise shell cat sleeps on a pile of socks.

“She sure does look warm and snuggly. But, you know, Stinky, the very best thing pet parents can do today is spend time snuggling and cuddling their cat if s/he enjoys that. And look, Misty May is in your dad’s lap right now. I think you should join her.”

Cuddle Time

“Good idea,” Stinky tells Periwinkle before joining Misty May.

Man cradling a tuxedo cat in his arms with a cartoon tabby cat sitting on his other arm.

“Stinky, I think we came up with some really great ideas, but I know humans can come up with lots more.”

“I agree, Periwinkle, and they can even help animals that don’t have homes by donating money, food litter or toys to their local shelter.”

“Stinky, I think that’s the best suggestion of all.”

“And after pet parents do some nice things for their animals, they can treat themselves. It’s Free Cone Day at Ben & Jerry’s.”

Periwinkle giggles and gives Stinky a big paw hug before the two head to the kitchen for some of those extra treats.

Finally it is time for Periwinkle to head home. The two tabbies spend several minutes cuddling and whisker kissing. Then Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel and with a wave and whoosh is gone. As he always does, Stinky heads for a cozy spot to nap and dream of his beautiful girlfriend.

The End

Periwinkle and Stinky will be heading over to Comedy Plus to join in the Happy Tuesday blog hop.

April 11, 2023 by Janet Blue Happy Tuesday Kitties Blue National Pet Day Tabby Tuesday The Adventures of Stinky & Periwinkle 13

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLXXX

Periwinkle’s Arrival

Stinky is waiting by the teleportation tunnel for Periwinkle’s arrival and hopping from paw to paw. He is certain Periwinkle will enjoy today’s adventure. She is right on time, and Stinky is ready to catch her as the tunnel pitches her out with its usual whoosh. She’s giggling when he catches her, and they share several whisker kisses. Without giving Periwinkle the opportunity to ask what they’ll be doing, Stinky leads her back into the tunnel.

All American Circus

Minutes later they arrive at their destination, and Stinky leads Periwinkle inside the National Guard Armory in Greenfield, Indiana. When she sees what awaits her, her eyes grow big and she begins clapping and bouncing up and down. “Oh, Stinky, is this what I think it is?” She asks. “I have always wanted to go to a circus!”

“I knew you would like this,” exclaims Stinky. He then explains the reason for the visit today.

“We are at the All American Circus. They are one a few circuses in operation. However, today in 1881 the Greatest Show On Earth was formed by P. T. Barnum and James Anthony Bailey. The Barnum and Bailey circus closed in May 2017, so we are seeing another circus performance. However, I just learned this morning that the Greatest Show on Earth is returning after a six-year hiatus. They will begin touring, with an all human show, in September. I definitely will take us to see that as well. After all, who wouldn’t want to see the Greatest Show on Earth. We will have to wait a little while, as that circus will be in Florida in January of 2024 and in North Carolina the following month. It doesn’t have any dates for Virginia.”

“That sounds like a wonderful plan, Stinky. It will give us something to look forward to.”

Before taking their seats, the tabbies get a big tub of popcorn and some bottles of water. Stinky convinces Periwinkle not to get any cotton candy, as she would end up with her furs all stuck together. Just thinking about how that would look makes both tabbies giggle.

Meeting the Ring Mistress

Once they find their seats, the Ring Mistress comes over to meet them and give them the opportunity to take a photo with her.

abby catsCircus ring mistress dressed in red hat and shirt and black shorts with two cartoon tabby cats.

Periwinkle gushes, “Stinky, I think it is so cool that a female has the most important job of this circus. It’s usually a man leading the show.”

Stinky replies, “My mom is always reminding me how much things have changed since she was a girl and how many opportunities are now available for females.”

Rosales Family

As soon as the met and greet is completes, the Ring Mistress introduces the first act, The Rosales Family. They present a juggling performance and some cool feats of balance. Stinky is invited to join in one of the balancing acts.

Woman flying from a pole by a neck strap. Pole is held by man.

Man in gold and white costume standing on his head on a trapeze with a cartoon tabby cat sitting on the trapeze.

Periwinkle can hardly believe how brave Stinky is. Though, he is always climbing things, this is much more difficult. When he returns to his seat, Stinky cannot stop smiling. Periwinkle gives him a big hug and congratulates him on his bravery.

Corde Lisse Aerial Acrobatics

Next the tabbies enjoy some aerial acrobatics on the corde lisse (smooth rope in English). Periwinkle watches with her mouth open. “Wow, Stinky, I wish I could wear pretty costumes and do those tricks,” Periwinkle exclaims.

Woman performing aerial acrobatics with a corde lisse.

Stinky gives her a wide-eyed look and asks, “Do you think you’d like to join the circus?”

“Oh no, I wouldn’t enjoy all that traveling, but I do like to dress up in pretty things. I probably would hork, though, if I did all that twirling.” Periwinkle tells him. They both giggle as they imagine Periwinkle’s lunch landing on the audience.

Ladder Artist

Next up is the ladder artist who displays amazing feats of balance and dexterity.

Circus performer hanging from a later with a knife in his mouth and balancing filled wine and cocktail glasses on a tiny pole and plates.

He invites Stinky to join him on the ladder, but when Stinky sees the knife in the performer’s mouth, he declines. Periwinkle is relieved when Stinky uses his common sense.

Rola Bola

The next act up is the Rola Bola. It is another balancing act. This one is atop towering cylinders.

Colorfully dressed man in circus performing a balancing act while spinning hula hoops on his wrists.

The performer is really cute, and when he asks Periwinkle to join him, she is tempted. “Periwinkle, if you get injured, you know your mom will be really upset and probably blame me. I don’t think it’s a very good idea,” says Stinky.

“You’re right, Stinky, and it does look pretty scary!”

Globe Of Death

The final act of the show is the Globe of Death with two motorcycle riders speeding around inside a steel, globe-shaped cage. Both Periwinkle and Stinky decide they don’t want to watch an act that has the word death it.

So, while that is happening, they meet the Rosales Family and have a memory photo taken.

family of circus performers in white and purple costumes posing with two cartoon tabby cats.

After the photo and a visit with Carmen, Jorge and their children, it is time for Periwinkle and Stinky to head back to their tunnel. They hold paws and enter together. With the familiar whoosh, they are on their way back to Stinky’s house.

Snack Time

Though they did eat a lot of popcorn, the tabbies decide they still need a snack and enjoy it on the front porch.

Cartoon tabby cats sitting on a settee on a front porch enjoying cat treats.

After their snack and a quick visit with Stinky’s fursibs and mom and dad, it’s time for Periwinkle to head home. The tabbies spend several minutes paw hugging and whisker kissing. Then with blown kisses and waves, Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel and is gone in a whoosh.

Stinky retires to the catio to nap and dream of his sweet Periwinkle.

The End

Periwinkle and Stinky will be participating in the Happy Tuesday blog hop at Comedy Plus. You can do the same by clicking on the badge below.

March 28, 2023 by Janet Blue Happy Tuesday The Adventures of Stinky & Periwinkle 14

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.)

“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.

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.

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!”

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.

“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.

February 28, 2023 by Janet Blue Happy Tuesday Looking Back Tabby Tuesday Thanksgiving The Adventures of Stinky & Periwinkle World Spay Day 14

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.

December 6, 2022 by Janet Blue Christmas Happy Tuesday The Adventures of Stinky & Periwinkle 8

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

November 22, 2022 by Janet Blue Happy Tuesday Kitties Blue Tabby Tuesday Thanksgiving The Adventures of Stinky & Periwinkle 11

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.

All photos were taken by Tom Blue and used with permission. Locale names were provided by Tom Blue. Looking Glass Mountain elevation is from Google. Temperature information is from the news broadcast on WSLS Channel 10 in Roanoke, VA.

November 8, 2022 by Janet Blue Angel Cat Dad Tom's Photography Happy Tuesday The Adventures of Stinky & Periwinkle 14

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.

October 25, 2022 by Janet Blue Halloween Happy Tuesday Kittens The Adventures of Stinky & Periwinkle 14

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.

October 11, 2022 by Janet Blue Halloween Happy Tuesday Health Holiday Kittens Tabby Tuesday The Adventures of Stinky & Periwinkle 19

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.

September 27, 2022 by Janet Blue Happy Tuesday Tabby Tuesday The Adventures of Stinky & Periwinkle 14

YOU
For Fiona

It seems like only yesterday…
You were just a kitten.
When I saw your pleading look,
I was completely smitten.

Now at only six years old,
You are getting ready to leave,
Soon you will have your wings.
I’ve already started to grieve.

You’ve fought hard for the past year,
And I’m not ready to say good-bye.
I can’t imagine you not in my life
I am so sad…today I had to cry.

I am grateful and blessed
For my six years with you.
You’ll live in my heart forever.
You’re one of the best ever Kitties Blue.

YESTERDAY

Many yesterdays have passed since
You gained your angel wings. Today
Is six months since you left us behind
To remember and mourn. Our hearts
Continue to hurt, and we miss
You as much as the day you left.
Giulietta whined from the catio
Yesterday as I worked in the yard.
I know you put her up to it. That
Was your way of getting me to,
Allow you to join me as I
Gardened. You were there with me
In spirit. With every meow
I thought of you and how much I miss
Your sweet face and disposition.
In these past few months, many friends
Have traveled your same path in your
paw-steps. I am certain you were
Waiting to greet them with purrs and hugs.
I pray you and your friends are laughing,
Frolicking and having fun together.
Picturing that makes me smile, but
Does not lessen my sadness at your
No longer being here to snuggle
And receive our love, care and kisses.
Fiona, please do not ever forget
You are still and always will be loved.

ONE YEAR MISSING YOU

One year has passed since you flew away,
And I still think of you everyday.
I see your sweet face in my mind’s eye
And wish we’d never had to say good-bye.
It’s nice you’ve sent us kitties needing a family,
But my dearest love, we are now at capacity.
You thought it would take more than one cat
To take your place in our habitat.
We love Cooper Murphy and baby Sawyer dearly
But thinking either could replace you makes me teary.
You were one-of-a-kind and will stay in my heart
Until the day I join you and we’re no longer apart.
When once again I can hold you in my arms
And revel in all your love and feline charms.
Together with you and all who have passed.
I will spend eternity contemplating how blessed
I was to share my life with my furry children,
Each and every one of you one-in-a billion.

UNTIL

I miss you each day.
Until we meet in heaven,
The pain will remain.

ONE OF A KIND

I don’t know how to say good-bye.
I thought you were invincible; though,
You used up many of your nine lives.
You ruled us all with an iron paw;
Never took “no” for an answer
And always got your way.
If not, you’d bark to signal your
Displeasure and sometimes raise a paw.
I always joked that you were bi-polar.
When I told people you were a calico
They immediately understood what I meant.
Today was unnaturally quiet in the house.
Can a home seem empty with eight cats?
I will miss waking up at night to find you
Sitting next to me and staring at me.
I will miss you yelling at us as you did
When you wanted breakfast and dinner.
I will miss watching you lounging and snoozing
On the porch settee on a warm afternoon.
But most of all I will miss your kisses!
When kitten Sawyer befriended you,
We suspect you were imparting your
Wisdom and secrets for controlling us.
Time will tell if he was a good listener.
But whatever he may have learned,
Neither Sawyer nor any other cat
Can or will replace you in our hearts.
Lily Olivia, you were one-of-a-kind.

December 2023
M	T	W	T	F	S	S
	1	2	3
4	5	6	7	8	9	10
11	12	13	14	15	16	17
18	19	20	21	22	23	24
25	26	27	28	29	30	31