The Adventures of Stinky & Periwinkle

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLXXVIII

Snow or Pie?

Stinky is excited for today’s adventure and hopes Periwinkle will enjoy it. He doesn’t have much time to fret about it, as Periwinkle comes flying out of the teleportation tunnel and into his waiting paws right on time. She’s out of breath but manages to say, “Wow the tunnel was fast today. I’m feeling a bit dizzy. Thanks for catching me.”

The two tabbies share some whisker kisses before Periwinkle runs to the window to look outside. “Where’s the snow? My mom told me you finally got your first snow of winter.”

Stinky replies, “I’m sorry but it has already melted. I don’t think we had even an inch.”

“Darn, I was hoping to see it,” exclaims Periwinkle. She then asks, “What’s the plan today if we aren’t going to play in the snow? Are we going to eat pie?”

Stinky giggles at this, as it is Pi Day*, and lots of people celebrate it by eating pie. Stinky tells Periwinkle that they may have pie later but his plan is for a walk in Vic Thomas Park, which is part of the city’s Roanoke Valley Greenway system. He explains that it’s just two blocks from the house but it’s super windy, so they’ll teleport there as they’ll be doing a lot of walking when they arrive. Not wanting to waste anytime, Stinky grabs their coats and hats and then takes Periwinkle’s paw and leads her back into the tunnel.

∗ Pi Day is an annual celebration of the mathematical constant π. Pi Day is observed on March 14 as 3, 1 and 4 are the first three significant figures of π. It was founded in 1988 by Larry Shaw, an employee of the Science Museum’s Exploratorium in San Francisco, California.

Vic Thomas Park

On arrival at the park, one of three (Vic Thomas Park, Wasena Park and Smith Park), which lie next to each other and the Roanoke River, Stinky asks Periwinkle if she remembers their last adventure at the river?

 

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing winter coats and hats and standing on a bridge.

 

“Oh, Stinky, how could I forget. That’s when it was flooded, and we had fun canoeing with your dad’s help. The water was all the way to this bridge. It was fun but a little scary.”

“As that happened almost three years ago, let’s give our friends the link to that post, ‘A Day on The River,’ so they can check it out.

“Great idea, Stinky! Now that we’re here, what’s on the agenda?” asks Periwinkle.

Ann Davey Master Memorial Sculpture Garden

Stinky tells Periwinkle, “We are going to explore the Ann Davey Master Memorial Sculpture Garden.” He further explains that the goal of the project is to provide public art to blend with the park’s design. The intention is for it to represent Master’s commitment to the arts, as the former director of the Art Museum, as well as her dedication to the environment with the Clean Valley Council.

“Oh, I know what’s happening. You want to climb on the sculptures, don’t you? It will be like our ‘Elmwood Park Art Walk’ adventure when you climbed on those sculptures.”

“Well, maybe,” admits Stinky.

Calling the Flowers

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing winter coats and hats with the sculpture of a girl kneeling with her head back and hands in the air, entitled, Calling the Flowers.

 

“See, I knew it. Don’t you dare actually climb up and get in her hand,” Periwinkle admonishes Stinky.

“Gee, Periwinkle, you’re no fun. I guess I’ll just tell our readers about the sculpture. It’s called Calling the Flowers. It was sculpted by local writer and artist, Lawrence Reid Bechtel. I think our readers might enjoy checking out his website here.”

When Stinky gets down, the two tabbies head back on the path until they arrive at the next sculpture.

In Flux

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing winter coats and hats with a sculpture of made of recycled light poles and entitled, In Flux.

 

Stinky tells Periwinkle that the sculpture is called, In Flux, and was created in 2010 by Bland Hoke and Matt Rink (All Creations) from recycled lamp poles. The tabbies spend some time exploring it, and Periwinkle is delighted when Stinky decides to remain on the ground with her.

When they come to the next sculpture, Stinky hops right up on the rock where it sits. Periwinkle rolls her eyes but jumps up on the other supporting rock. She asks, “Is this supposed to be an animal?”

Rigsby the Raccoon

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing winter coats and hats with the sculpture of Rigsby the Raccoon made from tires pulled from the Roanoke River in Virginia.

 

“Yes, his name is Rigsby the Raccoon. Polly Branch created him in 2020 from tires that were discarded in the river. Rigsby is the mascot of the Clean Valley Council.”

Periwinkle points to another sculpture and asks Stinky about it.

Annie’s Peace

Sculpture of an orb with wings entitled Annie's Dream.

 

“That’s called, Annie’s Peace. It was sculpted by famous, local artist, Betty Branch. It’s in memory of Ann Davey Master.”

“It’s beautiful, Stinky. Thanks for not climbing the pole and getting on top,” Periwinkle says as she squeezes his paw. Stinky continues to hold Periwinkle’s paw and tells her he wants to show her one more thing that isn’t part of the Sculpture garden.

Bridge Mural

After a short walk, the tabbies find themselves under a bridge. “Stinky, this is so colorful and beautiful,”

 

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing winter coats and hats under a bridge with a colorful mural.

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing winter coats and hats under a bridge with a colorful mural.

 

Stinky tells Periwinkle that the bridge is going to be replaced beginning in the spring, and he doesn’t know what will happen to the mural then. “However, there are murals all along the Greenway. Dad says he’ll take us out on his bike when the weather warms up so we can see them,” Stinky explains.

“That will be really cool, Stinky. Speaking of cool, I’m getting sort of cold. Are we ready to go back to your house?”

“Yep, let’s head back to our tunnel. I have a surprise at home,” Stinky replies.

Periwinkle gives Stinky a quizzical look, but he doesn’t say any more.

Pi Day

When they arrive at Stinky’s, he takes Periwinkle’s coat and hat and hands her her apron and chef’s hat. “Does this mean what I think, Stinky?Are we going to make a pie?” asks Periwinkle.

“Yep, let’s go!”

 

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing chef's hats and aprons, sitting at a kitchen counter with baking supplies for Pi Day.

 

Periwinkle and Stinky get busy making a tuna pie. While it’s baking, they clean up the kitchen. And when it comes out of the oven, they share it with all of Stinky’s fursibs. There’s lots of pushing and shoving among all the Kitties Blue to get the biggest piece. Audrey, aka The Hoover, is especially aggressive. But everyone enjoys their fare share.

Finally it’s time for Periwinkle to head home. The tabbies spend about a half hour whisker kissing and paw hugging. Then Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel, and with a wave and whoosh she is gone. Stinky heads to the bedroom to nap and dream of Periwinkle.

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.

 

BUSTER THE LONGHORN BULL

Sunday Selfies: Week #447

Today’s selfie is of longhorn, Buster the Bull, from Steele’s Tavern, Virginia. Actually, we don’t know his name but decided he should have one.

 

Selfie of a brown and white longhorn bull in a green field in a rustic, hardwood frame with ribbon and ricrac bows with button.

 

When he asked if he could share a selfie with you, we didn’t think we could refuse. Those horns look very scary.

Did you know that Periwinkle & Stinky visited the longhorns on one of their adventures? It was July 14, 2020, and also Cow Appreciation Day. If you’d like to see lots more longhorns as well as Stinky and Periwinkle in their cow headdresses, click on the link. They look totally adorable.

Whether you have taken a selfie today or you have enlisted a surrogate, we sure hope you’ll join the Sunday Selfies blog hop. Did you notice we are getting close to that 450 hop milestone? Take advantage of these last couple of preceding Sundays to purrfect your selfie skills.

If you haven’t done it yet, also take a little time to spring your clocks forward an hour. Purrsonally, we hate this messing around with the time. We get totally confused about when it is time to eat. Our mom, on the other hand, who always preferred standard time has decided she likes the longer hours of light during daylight saving time.

Thanks for joining us. Have a terrific and easy Sunday.

Purrs & paw-pats, Misty May, Astrid, Lisbeth, Calista Jo, Cooper Murphy, Sawyer, Kizmet, Audrey & Raleigh

 



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 CLXXIV

Valentine’s Day

Periwinkle has no idea why, but Stinky has asked her to arrive right at midnight on Valentine’s Day. She has no intention of disappointing him and comes tumbling out of the teleportation tunnel right on time. The moment she lands in his arms, he gives her a quick whisker kiss and leads her right back into the tunnel. Moments later they arrive at their destination. Periwinkle gasps when she sees what lies before them. She is unusually speechless as she takes in the scene. Finally finding her voice, she asks Stinky, “Did you do all this for me?”

Glamping at Alila Ventana

 

Glamping tent decorated with hearts and several bouquets of periwinkles and red roses.

 

Stinky blushes and replies, “Of course. You are so special and important to me, and I want you to know how much I love you. I hope you like it.”

Periwinkle throws her paws around Stinky’s neck and covers him with kisses. “Of course I like it, and I love you too. Now tell me where we are.”

 

Two cartoon tabby cats in a glamping tent decorated with hearts and several bouquets of periwinkles and red roses.

 

“We are back in Big Sur, California. I remember Mau talking about how much fun he and Allie had when they went glamping, so I thought we’d give it a try. This is part of the Alila Ventana resort. As it is only 9 p.m. on February 13 here, we have the night to get a good rest and then set out for some adventuring in the morning. I hope this is okay, as I know we visited Big Sur on our Carmel- by-the-Sea adventure.”

“Stinky it is purrfect,” replies Periwinkle as she moves around the platform smelling all the roses and the periwinkle flowers.

“I probably would have just filled the space with periwinkles, but after learning all about roses from you on our last adventure, I thought these red ones would be appropriate,” Stinky tells her.

Now it is time for Periwinkle to blush knowing that the red roses signify love.

Cocoa, Treats & Conversation

 

Two cartoon tabby cats in a glamping tent decorated with hearts and several bouquets of periwinkles and red roses.

 

“I had some hot cocoa and treats delivered, which we can enjoy by the fire before we go to sleep,” says Stinky. The two tabbies hop up into the adirondack chairs to enjoy their cocoa and treats. After discussing what they’d been doing since they were last together, Periwinkle and Stinky decide it is time to get some rest so they can explore in the morning. As they are heading to bed, Periwinkle notices an envelope near one of the bouquets of roses. When she asks Stinky about it, he tells her she can open it in the morning.

The two tabbies retire for the night.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats in bed in a glamping tent decorated with hearts and several bouquets of periwinkles and red roses.

 

Periwinkle wakes up and is delighted to see breakfast waiting for them. She sneaks out of bed and gets the envelope off the table. She’s tempted to open it but thinks she should wait for Stinky to wake up. Being really anxious to see what’s inside, Periwinkle starts nudging Stinky until he wakes up. When she asks if she can open the envelope, he groggily tells her, “yes.”

A Poem for Periwinkle

After ripping the envelope open, Periwinkle reads aloud,

Dear Periwinkle,

Roses are red, periwinkles are blue.
I pledge my love for you is true.
Having you in my life is a pleasure and a treat.
You are super beautiful and extra sweet.
You turn any cloudy days sunny,
And ones that are depressing funny.
You fill my heart with happiness everyday
And by my side I hope you will stay.
I will always be here whenever you need me
Because to my heart you hold the key.

Happy Valentine’s Day 💖
With all my love, paw hugs and whisker kisses, Stinky

When Periwinkle finishes reading, she has tears in her eyes and throws her paws around Stinky’s chest and gives him a big squeeze. “Stinky, I love this and you. You are so romantic. Thank you.”

Stinky blushes and tells Periwinkle, “I know I am not as good of a poet as my mom, but I am happy you like it. I love you too.  Would you like to have our breakfast and then head out for the day?”

“That sounds good. Where are we going today?”

Point Lobos State Reserve

“We are going back to the Point Lobos State Reserve, which we visited on our other adventure.”

“Oh, I remember how beautiful it was there. It is perfect for Valentine’s Day,” replies Periwinkle.

The tabbies enter their teleportation tunnel and exit in a field of wild flowers above the ocean.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing hats and in a field of wild flowers in Big Sur, California.

 

“I love this place, Stinky. It is so beautiful.”

“Yes, it is. I read that the special purpose of a reserve is to protect forever a locale of unique natural beauty and ecological importance. It’s given a higher level of protection. As visitors, we are expected to protect this landmark for generations to come.”

The tabbies leave the field to look around more.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing hats on cliffs in Point Lobos State Reserve in Big Sur, California.

 

“The view is spectacular, Periwinkle. I am really happy I decided we should revisit Big Sur. The hiking, however, has made me hungry. How about you?”

“I could eat,” replies Periwinkle.

“That’s good. I have another little surprise,” says Stinky as he takes Periwinkle’s paw and leads her closer to the ocean.

Picnic by the Water

 

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing hats having a picnic lunch in Point Lobos State Reserve in Big Sur, California.

 

“Yeah, a picnic. I love picnics. We’ve had so many wonderful ones. Thank you, Stinky.” Stinky and Periwinkle have a leisurely lunch while enjoying the view and the sound of the surf. When full, they are lulled by the sound of the waves and have a little nap. Upon waking, Stinky suggests they head down to the beach.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing hats on the beach in Big Sur, California.

 

“Stinky this has been the best Valentine’s Day. You are such a thoughtful boyfriend.”

“I’m so happy you’ve had a good time. Unfortunately, I think it’s time for us to head home,” says Stinky as he leads Periwinkle back to their teleportation tunnel. They enter and moments later arrive at Stinky’s house.

As she always does, Periwinkle spends some time visiting with Stinky’s fursibs and parents and telling them a little about their adventure. All too soon it is time for her to head home. She and Stinky spend several minutes hugging and whisker kissing and wishing each other a happy Valentine’s Day.

But the time finally arrives for Periwinkle to enter the tunnel. As she does, the tabbies wave good-bye, and in a whoosh she is gone. Stinky heads to the bedroom for a nap and dreams of his beloved Periwinkle.

The End

 

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

 

AUDREY IS A CUTIE PIE!

Feline Friday

 

Tabby kitten lying on her side on the rug and staring at the camera.

 

Audrey is joining the Feline Friday blog hop at messymimi’s meanderings. To participate click on the Feline Friday badge.

Friendly Fill-Ins

Time again to let you know a bit more about Kitties Blue and myself by completing the weekly fill-ins. Friendly Fill-Ins is a blog hop hosted by Ellen (15 And Meowing) and Lorianne (Four-Legged Furballs). On Thursday they each select two sentences to be filled in by hop participants, and you can find those on both blogs. Enter the hop by clicking on the graphic.

I got lots of help with fill-ins this week. In fact, four of Kitties Blue took over entirely. They all used teal italics to complete the sentences.

1. Cooper Murphy: I enjoy making biscuits.

2. Sawyer: I can’t stop wanting and asking for treats.

3. Stinky: I need to figure out what Periwinkle and I are going to do for our next adventure before it is my turn to host.

4. Raleigh: I may not like my humans very much, but I do like living indoors and getting noms and treats.

Thanks for joining us today. We’ll be back tomorrow with some Caturday Art. Hope to see then as well.

 

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLXXII

Science Museum of Western Virginia

As usual Stinky is nervously pacing beside the teleportation tunnel waiting for Periwinkle. He’s always afraid she won’t enjoy the adventure he has planned for them. Mid pace, Stinky hears the familiar whoosh of the tunnel and is ready to catch Periwinkle as she comes tumbling out. They share paw hugs and whisker kisses before Periwinkle asks what Stinky has planned for the day.

“Today, we are staying right here in town. My mom is going to drive us downtown to Center in the Square, and we are going to visit the Science Museum of Western Virginia.”

“That sounds like fun,” says Periwinkle.

“Mom’s ready to go so let’s go get in the car.”

When Periwinkle sees the stair chair leading down to the garage, she asks Stinky if he thinks his mom would let her ride down on it. He tells her sure, and she jumps on. She’s surprised how slow it moves, but still squeals, “wheee!” on the way down.

 

 

The two tabbies hop in the backseat of Stinky’s mom’s car and fasten their seat belts.

It only takes a few minutes for Stinky’s mom to drive them into town. Stinky promises to call her when they are ready to go home.

Toy Joy

Periwinkle and Stinky discover that the museum has ten different areas to explore. They realize they won’t be able to see them all in one day and pick Toy Joy as their first stop. There they discover larger-than-life toys and games.

They begin at the giant Light Bright board and each create a heart for the other. They giggle and hug when they discover they have each made the same thing.

 

 

Next they explore the giant Lego blogs. Of course, Stinky proceeds to climb on them. Periwinkle just rolls her eyes and doesn’t say anything.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats with giant lego blocks in front of a wall that reads, Toy Joy.

 

When Stinky finally gets down, he and Periwinkle set to work creating a grey tabby cat that somewhat resembles them.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats with a huge Lego grey and white tabby cat.

“That came out great, Stinky. We’re pretty talented,” says Periwinkle. Stinky agrees and adds, “It sure was a lot of work,though!”

Next they visit Imagination Playground. Stinky tells Periwinkle that it reminds him of Tinker Toys, something his humans played with as kids. They get to work adding pieces to the wall with no particular idea or design in mind.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats among large tinker toy-type items and a building wall.

 

Healthy Bodies

“Stinky, those were all fun things to do. Which area do you think we should visit next?” Periwinkle asks. They both decide they’d like to see the Healthy Bodies exhibit. They are hoping to find out a little more about their own bodies but aren’t too disappointed when they discover the exhibit is about humans. First, they check out Amazing Arteries and see how blood vessels and arteries transport blood cells from one location to another within the body.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats in front of a red wall with large clear tubes representing human blood vessels and arteries.

 

“This may be about humans, Periwinkle, but our system works the same way,” says Stinky. That gets Stinky another eye roll from Periwinkle, which he ignores.

“Hey Stinky, lets check out that giant mouth over there,” says Periwinkle as she points across the room.” Of course, Stinky immediately hops up into the mouth, while Periwinkle stands on the stool below.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats...one standing inside a replica of a human mouth and the other sitting on stool in front of it.

 

“Stinky, please get down before we get thrown out of here.” Hearing the frustration in Periwinkle’s voice, Stinky jumps down. They discover that the “Big Mouth” is sensitive to touch and asks trivia questions about oral anatomy and health. As the tabbies don’t know any of the answers, they move on to another area.

Dino Dig

When Stinky sees the dinosaur in the Dino Dig exhibit, he hops right into the display and the dinosaur’s mouth.

 

Two tabby cats with as dinosaur replica. One is standing it its mouth.

 

Periwinkle cannot believe how naughty Stinky is being today, but figures she might as well join him in the display; though, she has no intentions of getting in the dinosaurs mouth. She tells Stinky, “I figure if you are going to get thrown out of here, I might as well get tossed as well! You certainly are misbehaving more than usual today.”

“I’m sorry, Periwinkle. When the weather is cold and I get stuck in the house, I get bored. “

“I don’t understand why. You have cat trees all over the house and tons of toys.”

“It’s just not the same as getting out and exploring new things.”

“I guess that’s true, but let’s get out of the display before someone sees us,” says Periwinkle.

“There is so much to see here, but I’m getting hungry. Let’s come back another day. There’s a restaurant just across the street that my mom likes. Do you want to get some lunch?”

“Sure, let’s go,” Periwinkle replies.

Stinky takes Periwinkle’s paw and they head to Ernie’s.

Lunch at Ernie’s

 

Two cartoon tabby cats sitting in chairs shaped like hands, one in purple and one in orange, outside a restaurant named Ernie's.

 

“Stinky these are the coolest chairs I have ever seen. We must try them out.” The two jump into the chairs and agree they are quite comfortable. After a few minutes they go inside to order.

 

 

Periwinkle orders the grilled cheese sandwich, and Stinky orders the grilled chicken breast sandwich. They get home fries to share. When they have finished their lunch, Stinky calls his mom. She arrives a few minutes later and takes them home.

As always Periwinkle spends time visiting with Stinky’s fursibs. She finds several of them enjoying a sunpuddle on their mom and dad’s bed.

 

 

Unfortunately, it is soon time for Periwinkle to head home. She and Stinky spend several minutes whisker kissing and paw hugging. Finally, Periwinkle enters the tunnel, and with a wave and a whoosh she is gone.

Stinky joins his fursibs in the sunpuddle on the bed where he naps and dreams of Periwinkle.

The End

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

Periwinkle and Stinky thank you for joining them on today’s adventure.

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLXX

Stinky is waiting by the teleportation tunnel for Periwinkle’s arrival. He’s made certain neither Raleigh nor any of the other Kitties Blue are camped out inside. He doesn’t want a repeat of Periwinkle’s last arrival. He doesn’t have to wait long for Periwinkle to come tumbling out into his waiting paws. After several minutes of whisker kissing, Stinky takes Periwinkle’s paw and leads her back into the tunnel. She doesn’t even have the opportunity to ask him where they are going.

When they arrive at their destination and leave the tunnel, Periwinkle is happy Stinky has told her to dress warmly. “Wow, Stinky, it is really cold here. We could have saved this adventure for a warmer day. By the way, where are we?”

Arriving in Philadelphia

Stinky replies, “We are in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I am sorry it is so cold. It is going to warm up to 48 degrees today, but I know that’s cold for you. Today is Benjamin Franklin’s birthday, and as we’ve never been here before, I thought we should check out the places that were meaningful in his life.”

“Is this where he was born?” Periwinkle asks.

Franklin Court

Two cartoon tabbies in front of the steel frame replica of Benjamin Franklin's House in Philadelphia.

 

“No, Franklin was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1706. However, where we are standing, which is called Franklin Court, is where his house stood while he was serving in the Continental Congress. And it is where he died in 1790. The steel “ghost structure” behind us outlines the footprint and design of his home.”

“I wish the house was still here. It would have been fun to go inside,” remarks Periwinkle.

“We’ll get to visit the inside of many of the buildings we’ll visit today. We need to visit Carpenter’s Hall next,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

Carpenter’s Hall

Two cartoon tabbies in front of a brick building, Carpenter's Hall in Philadelphia.

 

Two cartoon tabbies inside Carpenter's Hall.

 

“This was the site of the First Continental Congress. It also once was home to Franklin’s Library Company and the American Philosophical Society (APS) founded in 1743. They are now located elsewhere in Philadelphia. The Library Company served as the nation’s original subscription library. And the purpose of APS was ‘to promote useful knowledge.’ It now exists next to Independence Hall and serves as a library and museum.”

“Are we going to Independence Hall?”

“Yes, Periwinkle, Let’s head there now.”

Independence Hall

Two cartoon tabbies in front of a brick building with a clock tower and a sculpture of Benjamin Franklin-Independence Hall.

 

As the tabbies enter the building, Stinky tells her that Independence Hall was originally known as the Pennsylvania State House. They find two rooms on the main floor. On the east side is Assembly Room, where the colonial legislature and Continental Congress met. Stinky tells Periwinkle, “This is where the Declaration of Independence and the U. S. Constitution were signed.”

 

Two cartoon tabbies in the Assembly Room at Independence Hall surround by tables with green table clothes and candles.

 

“Wow, that was a pretty big deal. It gives me goose bumps to realize I am standing in the room where those important things occurred” says Periwinkle.

After looking around, they head to the other side of the building to what was the courtroom for the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania.

 

Two cartoon tabbies sitting on a bench inside the Pennsylvania Supreme Court room In Independence Hall.

 

Stinky informs Periwinkle, “The Pennsylvania Supreme Court met here throughout the 1700s. The building was nearly demolished in the early 19th century, but it was purchased by the city of Philadelphia and preserved.” Stinky then suggests they head back outside and visit Christs Church Burial Ground where Mr. Franklin and his wife Deborah are buried.

Christs Church Burial Ground

Two cartoon tabbies by the graves of Benjamin Franklin and his wife Deborah. Franklin's stone is covered with pennies.

 

“Why are all those pennies on Franklin’s grave?” asks Periwinkle.

“People toss them there for good luck,” Stinky tells her.

“The sounds kind of silly to me, but I guess if I had a penny I’d do the same,“ Periwinkle replies. “By the way, where is the church?” she asks Stinky.

“It’s a few blocks away. Let’s go there now,” Stinky replies.

Christs Church

Two cartoon tabbies in front of a brick building-Christs Church in Philadelphia.

 

“Stinky, please get down. It is cold out here, and I want to go inside. I really thought you were going to behave yourself, as you hadn’t tried to climb on anything else.”

Stinky doesn’t say anything but jumps down and takes Periwinkle’s paw to take her into the church.

 

Two cartoon tabbies inside church standing in the aisle under a chandelier.

 

“I am definitely happy to be inside again where it is warm. And this is really a beautiful church. What can you tell me about?” asks Periwinkle.

Stinky explains that Christs Church was founded in 1695 and was the first parish of the Church of England in Pennsylvania. The current building was constructed between 1727 and 1744. The chandelier has been in use since it was installed in 1740. The bells were brought from England in 1754. The baptismal font is from 1300 and was donated by All Hallows-by-the-Tower Church in London. Franklin and his family worshiped here and had their own reserved pew—#70.

After looking around a bit more, Stinky suggests that they make their way to their last stop of the day—the Liberty Bell.

The Liberty Bell

Two cartoon tabby cats with the. Liberty Bell.

 

Stinky tells Periwinkle a little about the bell. “The Liberty Bell was originally at the Pennsylvania State House (Independence Hall). The original bell was ordered in 1751 from the Whitechapel Foundry in London. That bell cracked on the first test ring. It was melted down here in Philadelphia and cast into this new bell. No one recorded when or why this new bell cracked. It’s thought that a narrow split developed in the early 1840s after almost 90 years of use. The city decided to repair the bell in 1846 prior to George Washington’s birthday holiday. The wide “crack” you see in the Liberty Bell is the repair job. It was created using a method called “stop drilling.” Unfortunately the repair was unsuccessful. The bell never rang again. The inscription on the bell reads, “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof.”

“Stinky, this has been a great trip. I really enjoyed seeing all these places, and once again I learned a lot.”

“I’m happy you enjoyed yourself. Are you ready to head back to my house for a snack and a visit with my fursibs?”

“Oh, yes. Let’s go,” replies Periwinkle.

Stinky takes Periwinkle’s paw and they enter the teleportation tunnel.

Stinky’s House

After arriving at Stinky’s house, the tabbies enjoy a snack.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats sitting at a kitchen couner surrounded by treat containers.

 

When they finish, Periwinkle visits with Stinky’s fursibs. Finally it is time for her to return home. The two share lots of whisker kisses and paw hugs. Then with a wave, Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel and is gone in a whoosh.

Stinky heads to the bedroom to nap in a sunpuddle and dream about Periwinkle.

The End

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLXVI

Periwinkle Arrives

Stinky waits impatiently for Periwinkle to arrive. He really needs her help with his planned adventure. Finally he hears the familiar whoosh from the teleportation tunnel, and Periwinkle tumbles out into his arms. Periwinkle throws her paws around Stinky and gets as close to him as she can. “Stinky, it is so cold here. How can you stand it?”

“I stay in the house, silly; though, this isn’t all that cold. Christmas Eve is supposed to have a high of 25 degrees!” Stinky replies. 

“Yikes! I certainly hope we are going somewhere warm today, as I really don’t like the cold,” Periwinkle tells him.

“Don’t worry, we aren’t going anywhere, not even outside,” Stinky replies. He continues, “Since my mom is still sick with COVID and has gotten really behind with getting ready for Christmas, I thought we could spend some time helping her out. But first I thought we could make a Christmas card for all our friends and fans.”

“Those are great ideas, Stinky.”

Christmas Greeting for Our Friends & Fans

“Thanks, I am going to gather some supplies to make our card.” Once Stinky has everything, they start cutting and pasting and coloring their card. When they are done they each sign their names.

“Stinky, I really like this. I sure hope all our friends will as well.”

“I’m sure they will, Periwinkle!”

 

Christmas Card with two cartoon tabbies in gold frames atop a wreath and framed in red.

 

“I’m going to get everything we need to wrap the gifts. All the boxes with the a presents are on the dining room table, so we can work there.”

“Would it be okay if I visit with some of your fursibs while you do that?” Periwinkle asks.

“Of course. You’ll find a bunch of them on the bed in Mom and Dad’s room,” Stinky tells her. Periwinkle skips off to join them.

 

Four cats and a cartoon tabby cat on a human's bed napping in a sunpuddle.

 

“Wow, what a great place to nap. Lots of room for everybody and a giant sunpuddle. It looks as if none of you want to be disturbed, so I’ll just tiptoe out and Stinky and I can get to work.”

Wrapping Gifts

“Stinky, I am really good at untying bows, shredding wrapping paper and playing in the boxes, but I have never wrapped gifts before now. Don’t you think that without opposable thumbs it’s going to be pretty difficult?”

“I’ve never done this before either, Periwinkle, but I think, if we reverse engineer the process, we can get it done. Even though we don’t have thumbs, I think having four paws each will work to our advantage.”

“I’m willing to give it a try, so let’s get started.”

 

Two cartoon tabby cats wrapping Christmas gifts with a lit and decorated Christmas tree in the background..

 

“Stinky, this paper with Angel Mau in a Santa hat sure is cute. It’s nice that you are using it on a gift for my mom. You also are so thoughtful to have gotten something for her.” Stinky blushes at the compliment.

Periwinkle and Stinky work diligently and soon have a pile of presents completed. “How many packages have we wrapped, Stinky? My paws are getting pretty tired?”

 

Cartoon tabby cat sitting among a pile of wrapped gifts.

 

“Let me count them.” Stinky proceeds to paw through the gifts counting each one. “We’ve completed wapping 18 gifts, Periwinkle.”

“Wow that’s a bunch. Do you think we could stop for a snack?” asks Periwinkle.

“That’s a great idea, but first let me get the tape out of your furs and off my shoes,” replies Stinky.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats, with tape in their furs, sitting in front of a stack of wrapped gifts.

 

“That’s better. Thanks Stinky, it only hurt a little bit when you pulled off the tape.”

“I’m sorry it hurt, Let’s go get that snack, and we’ll both feel better.” Stinky and Periwinkle enjoy some Temptations and Fancy Feast. When finished, Periwinkle asks, “Can I see your tree with all the glass ornaments. You promised you would show when I was here two weeks ago.”

The Glass Ornament Christmas Tree

Two cartoon tabby cats sitting in front of a nine-foot decorated Christmas tree with glass ornaments.

 

“Stinky, this is the prettiest tree I have ever seen, and I understand why your mom won’t let you all spend any time in here. Thanks for sharing it with me and our readers. Is there anything else we can do to help your mom? I am pretty tired from all the wrapping”

“I was hoping we could do some baking for her. She usually makes cookies for several of our neighbors. I’m not certain she’ll get to do that this year,” Stinky explains to Periwinkle. “But I don’t think we have time for that today, and I know we are both tired.”

“That would have been fun, but I do agree that I am a bit too tired. And I do know it is time for me to head home,” Periwinkle tells Stinky.

“I wish the time hadn’t passed so quickly, Periwinkle! Thank you for all your help today. I know my mom really appreciates it as do I.”

“I had fun, as I always do when we are together, Stinky, and I am happy we could help your mom.”

Periwinkle and Stinky share lots of paw hugs and whisker kisses and tell each other how much they love one another. Then it is time for Periwinkle’s departure. The two tabbies say their final farewells and wave to each other as Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel. And with the usual whoosh, she is gone.

Stinky heads to the sunpuddle in his Mom and Dad’s bedroom for a nap and to dream of his sweet girlfriend.

Stinky and Periwinkle are joining Happy Tuesday at Comedy Plus.

Thanks for joining Periwinkle & Stinky this week.

 

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