The Adventures of Stinky & Periwinkle

TRAPPED & A THANKFUL AUDREY

Thoroughly Poetic Thursday

The part of my brain that has an aptitude for writing poetry has been on hiatus for the past several weeks. Regardless, I have come up with a poem for this week’s inspiration photo provided by Angel Sammy and Teddy from Two Spoiled Cats. I find the photo almost frightening, as individuality and diversity is so important in the creation of a vibrant and creative society. I think my poem says this in a very basic way.

 

Suburban neighborhood with street after street of identical white houses.

 

Trapped in the Suburbs

These identical houses are absurd,
But that’s what you get in the suburbs.
I love my 100-plus year old house in the city.
It’s unique and large enough for all the kitties.
You couldn’t pay me to live in this neighborhood.
I would be depressed and never feel good
About driving in circles trying to find my house.
It would feel like a maze, and I was the mouse.

© Janet Buickerood Blue – 08/09/2023

If you’d like to join in the fun of writing poetry, click on Angel Sammy’s poetry badge. That will take you over to Two Spoiled Cats where you can find next week’s inspiration photo. You’ll also be able to check out Angel Sammy’s poem for this week. He transmits it to Teddy each week from the Rainbow Bridge, and in our opinion, it is always a winner.

 

Thankful Thursday

Kitties Blue and I like to share our thankfuls each week and participate in Brian’s Thankful Thursday blog hop.

Periwinkle and Stinky are thankful to those of you who visited with them on International Cat Day. If you didn’t join them on their adventure, I do recommend you check it out. Twenty-one of their feline friends who live outside the United States participated in the adventure. Here’s the link: “THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CXCVI.”

Audrey is thankful for one of the toys (especially the feathered part) from the most recent Cat Lady Box.
TABBY CAT PLAYS WITH FEATHERS ON A CATNIP TOY SHAPED LIKE A PHONE HANDSET.Kitties Blue and I are thankful for all of you who visit, read our posts and comment. And we thank you for joining us today.

If you’d like to participate in Brian’s Thankful Thursday blog hop, post on your blog the things for which you are thankful, then click on the badge below to go to Brian’s Home and link up.

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CXCVI

A Surprise for Periwinkle

Stinky is super excited for Periwinkle’s arrival. He thinks this is going to be one of their best adventures ever. When Periwinkle arrives, he quickly gives her a whisker kiss and paw hug and then ushers her back into the teleportation tunnel before she can ask any questions. Moments later they arrive at their destination. Stinky tells Periwinkle to put her paws over her eyes before exiting the tunnel.

When she opens her eyes, Periwinkle immediately recognizes where they are. “Stinky, we’ve been here before, when we went on our Mill Mountain adventure and again when we visited the Mill Mountain Zoo. Are we going to visit the animals again?” she asks.

“Not today. But we are going to have a visit with some special animals,” Stinky tells her.

International Cat Day Celebration

“Whatever do you mean?” asks Periwinkle. Stinky tells Periwinkle to turn around. When she does, she exclaims, “Oh my gosh, Stinky, where did all these other cats come from?”

 

International Cat Day: Twenty-one cats gather under a sign reading, International Cat Day Celebration 2023 and in front of two bicycle sculptures.

 

Stinky explains that it is International Cat Day, and he has invited some of their friends from other countries to join them in a picnic featuring foods from their countries.

“Stinky, what an amazingly fabulous idea. Who all is here?”

“I hope I can get this right…here goes. From the Netherlands we have Peachy and Stippie. Caspurr, Trixie and Shimshi are joining us from Israel. From the UK, we have Athena and Erin and the entire B Team (Amber, Smooch, Parsley, Pandora, Fudge, Melvyn). Toulouse, Sienna, Miranda and Jack are here from New Zealand. Loulou is joining us from France. From Switzerland, Pixie and Zorro are here, and our North American neighbor, BellaDharma, is here from Canada.”

“Stinky, I will never be able to remember all their names,” bemoans Periwinkle. “And, I don’t speak any foreign languages.”

Stinky replies, “I wanted to get nametags for everyone, but I was worried they’d lose too much fur when they removed them. You don’t have to worry about what language to speak. I am fairly certain everyone can meow in English; though, in some cases we may not understand because of their accents. But stop worrying, we are all here to have fun and enjoy some noms from our various countries. I expect our mouths will be too full to do a lot of talking.”

Periwinkle leans toward Stinky and whispers in his ear, “Do you think our U.S friends will be upset we did not invite them to the party?”

Stinky replies, “I certainly hope not. We’ll just have to cross our paws that doesn’t happen.”

Periwinkle nods and decides to stop worrying and just enjoy herself. As all the kitties wait for the noms to be delivered, they visit with each other and do some sightseeing.

The Roanoke Star

First stop is Roanoke’s famous neon star.

 

Sign with information about the Roanoke (Mill Mountain Star) in Roanoke, Virginia.

 

Stinky reads the sign to everybody and then giggles when he realizes the star and his mom are the same age. Periwinkle gives him a quizzical look, but he just winks at her and suggests they all have their photo with the star.

 

International Cat Day: Twenty-one cats and two cartoon tabby cats gather beneath the neon Roanoke Star.

 

Roanoke Valley Overlook

When they finish with the photo, they head to the overlook to check out the view of the Roanoke Valley and pose for another photo.

 

 

Periwinkle is happy Stinky has decided to behave himself and has not climbed on anything. She panics, however, when Pixie and Shimshi jump up on the railing. She politely asks them to get down. They agree to do so right after their photo is taken.

Mill Mountain Zoo Photo Op

Stinky tells the gang he wants to show them the Mill Mountain Zoo, that he and Periwinkle visited in a previous adventure. He says that they do not have time to visit today, but he and Periwinkle hope each of them will return for a visit there in the future.

 

 

They all agree that they’d like to return another time to visit the zoo.

After their photo at the zoo entrance, the felines head toward the spot Stinky has selected for their picnic. It is nice and shady; though, the day is very warm. Stinky is just happy that the really, really bad storms of the past few days have moved on.

 

 

What’s for Lunch?

Stinky tells Periwinkle, “I asked each individual or cat family to bring a dish from their country to add to our picnic.”

“That sounds cool. I usually like trying new things,” she replies.

Stinky asks Miranda what the Dash Kitten Crew has contributed. She tells him she has brought two dishes, Southland Cheese Rolls, also known as Southland Sushi, which consist of a slice of bread with cheese rolled up like sushi with a generous helping of butter and then grilled. They’ve also brought Paua fritters, which are made from edible sea snails, also known as abalone.

 

 

Next, Periwinkle asks Pixie what she and Zorro have brought from Switzerland. Zorro tells the tabbies, he and Pixie have Rösti, a kind of potato cake that can be combined with almost any ingredient. Their Rosti is prepared with smoked salmon.

 

 

Next up are the J-Cats from Israel. They too have two contributions: Rugelach (one of Stinky’s mom’s favorites) and Limonada, fresh lemonade spiked with mint.

 

 

Next Loulou presents what she has brought from France: Bouillabaisse and Creme Brûlée.

 

 

Erin steps forward with Fish and Chips. And Athena has brought Shepherd’s Pie.

 

 

By this time, Stinky’s mouth is watering, and Periwinkle hands him a napkin to wipe his chin.

Peachy and Stippie present their offerings from the Netherlands: Bitterballen, croquette-type snacks created from thickened meat stew, rolled in breadcrumbs and deep fried; and fresh herring filets.

 

 

Finally, it is BellsDharma’s turn. “I bet you thought I would bring Poutine, but I didn’t. I have Sushi pizza. It consists of a fried rice patty topped with salmon, tuna, crab, avocado slices and spicy mayonnaise. I left off the soy-wasabi sauce, as I think that would be too hot for us.”

 

 

“Wow, this is going to be quite a feast,” says Periwinkle, and the asks, “What did we bring Stinky?”

“Some traditional American fare, hamburgers and hot dogs,” replies Stinky.

 

 

“Wow, Stinky, I sure hope everyone is hungry. This is quite a feast,” exclaims Periwinkle.

All the cats gather together to lay out the blankets Stinky has brought to sit on. When they’ve finished, the felines fill their plates and pick spots to enjoy their meals and conversation with their friends.

 

 

After all the kitties have had seconds, and in some cases thirds, and cleaned up the area, they agree it is time for a nap. They all settle down for a nice rest.

Time to say, “Good-Bye”

Unfortunately, once everyone is awake, it’s time to say, “good-bye.” The felines spend quite a long time hugging, exchanging recipes and promising to keep in touch. And everyone agrees they would like to make this an annual event.

Finally, the individuals and families head to their teleportation tunnels for trips home to their own countries. Periwinkle and Stinky make certain all their friends are off safely before entering their tunnel for the quick trip back to Stinky’s house.

When Periwinkle and Stinky arrive at his house, all his fursibs and Mom and Dad want to hear about the day, and the tabbies animatedly tell them all about it. When they are finished regaling them with news of the delicious food and the wonderful new friends they have made, it’s time for Periwinkle to head home. She and Stinky spend several more minutes whisker kissing and paw hugging. Then with a blown kiss and wave, Periwinkle enters her tunnel and is gone in a whoosh. Exhausted, Stinky heads to the bedroom where sleeps until the following morning.

The End

We’d like to thank all our kitty friends for their participation in today’s festivities. If you would like to visit any of them, here are the links to their blogs.

Pixie & Zorro (The Swiss Cats)

Jack, Miranda, Toulouse and Sienna (Dash Kitten)

Peachy & Stippie (Angelswhisper2011)

BellaDharma (The Purrfect Pad)

Caspurr, Trixie and Shimshi (Purr-sonally Speaking)

Amber, Pandora, Fudge, Smooch, Melvyn and Parsley (Bionic Basil and the B Team)

Athena (Athena Cat Goddess)

Erin (Erin the Literary Cat)

Loulou (Living with Loulou)

The entire gang will be joining the Happy Tuesday blog hop over at Comedy Plus. Click on the badge below to do the same.

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CXCIV

Stinky is even more enthusiastic than usual to see Periwinkle, as he can’t wait to get started on today’s adventure. He is taking Periwinkle to a place that his parents visited some years before he was born. They told him all about it, and it sounded too exciting to pass up. He doesn’t have long to wait for Periwinkle, as she comes tumbling out of the teleportation tunnel right on time. Hearing its familiar whoosh, Stinky is right there to catch her and wrap her up in a big paw hug. Periwinkle hugs him back and they share some whisker kisses.

Stinky, however, doesn’t even give her time to catch her breath before he leads her back into the tunnel.

Quebec, Canada

Moments later, they arrive at their destination, which Periwinkle doesn’t recognize. She immediately asks, “Where are we Stinky?”

“We are in Quebec, Canada. It is so hot both in Florida and Virginia, I wanted to come someplace a bit cooer. It is forecasted to be 75 degrees Fahrenheit today.”

“That sounds really nice. What are we going to do?”

“We are going to travel from Saguenay-St-Lawrence Marine Park to Baie-Sainte-Catherine (St. Catherine’s Bay) and go whale watching,” Stinky tells her.

“Oh, wow, that will be so exciting,” replies Periwinkle.

Whale Watching

“My parents went on a Whale Watching Cruise on a large boat, but we are going to take a Zodiac Whale Watching Tour.” Just as Stinky finishes telling Periwinkle this, their boat arrives with a few passengers already on board. The guide hands them lifejackets, which they quickly put on, and then they hop on board.

 

Periwinkle Stinky whale watching: Two cartoon tabby cats on a Zodiac boat.

 

Periwinkle can barely hide her excitement as they set out. They pick up some additional passengers and then see their first whale. Periwinkle squeals and claps her paws together. The guide tells them it is a juvenile humpback.

 

Periwinkle Stinky whale watching: Two cartoon tabby cats on a zodiac boat with the humpback whale back in the foreground.

 

Periwinkle asks, “Can you tell us more about the juvenile whales?”

 

Humpback whale back.

 

Humpback Whale Facts

The guide tells Periwinkle and Stinky that humpback whales are juveniles until they reach sexual maturity at between six and 10 years of age. Newborn humpbacks weigh about one ton and are 10 to 16 feet in length. Males at reproductive age are between 39 and 52 feet in length. Females measure around 45 to 49 feet. They however can grow to 59 feet.

 

Humpback whale back.

Periwinkle sees Stinky staring intently at the back of the nearby whale and grabs the back of his lifejacket. “Don’t you get ideas, Mr. Daredevil. If you make a leap to get on that whales back, you will end up as fish food, and I will never speak to you again.”

Chastised, Stinky steps back. As he is doing that, Periwinkle shouts, “Look, Stinky, it is the whale’s tail!”

 

Periwinkle Stinky whale watching: Two cartoon tabby cats on a zodiac boat with a humpback whale fluke in the foreground.

 

The guide tells the tabbies that a whale’s tale is called a fluke. They both giggle, finding the word very funny.

 

Periwinkle Stinky whale watching: Two cartoon tabby cats on a zodiac boat with a humpback whale fluke in the foreground.

 

As they watch open mouthed, the whale lifts its fluke even further out of the water.

 

Periwinkle Stinky whale watching: humpback whale fluke

 

Before the tour ends, the guide apologizes that they didn’t get to see a whale breaching the water. She also tells the passengers that humpback whales grow up to 60 feet long and weigh 80,000 pounds. They can live for 80 to 90 years.

On the way back to shore, the guide serves a little snack. Periwinkle and Stinky are surprised by the variety of cat treats offered.

When they arrive back at shore, Periwinkle and Stinky hand back their lifejackets and head for the teleportation tunnel. Moments after entering, they arrive back at Stinky’s house.

A Surprise for Periwinkle

Stinky asks Periwinkle to close her eyes, so he can fetch something to share with her. When he returns, Stinky shouts, “Surprise,” and tells Periwinkle to open her eyes.

“When she sees what he has, she claps her paws together and squeals, “Oh, Stinky, those are our Certificates Of Excellence from the Cat Writers’ Association. You didn’t tell me they had arrived. Can we take our photo with them and show all our readers?”

“Of course, that was my plan,” Stinky tells her.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats holding Certificates of Excellence from the Cat Writers' Assoc.

“For which Adventures did we earn our certificates, Stinky?” asks Periwinkle.

Stinky tells her the following:

“The COE in the category WRITTEN ARTICLE: ENTERTAINMENT – SHORT was for our adventure where we helped my mom get ready for Christmas when she had COVID.”

The COE in the category COLUMN/SERIES was for three of our adventures. They are the ones where we visited Tortola BVI, the Balloons Over Rockbridge, Virginia, Festival and our Playdate with the Kittens.”

“Stinky, those were all terrific adventures! I know I really enjoyed each of them. I sure hope we win a Muse Medallion for at least one of our entries.”

“Periwinkle, we should just be happy that we were recognized,” Stinky tells her.

“Of course, you’re right. Sadly, I guess it is time for me to head home. I sure had fun today. You always plan the best adventures.”

“Thanks, Periwinkle.”

The tabbies spend several minutes paw hugging and whisker kissing. Then Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel and with a wave an a whoosh is gone. Stinky retires to the catio for a catnap and dreams of Periwinkle.

The End

Happy Tuesday

Periwinkle and Stinky will be hopping over to Comedy Plus to join the Happy Tuesday blog hop. If you’d like to join them, click on the badge below.

 

 

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CXCII

Stinky is busy gathering supplies for today’s “adventure” when he hears rumbling from the teleportation tunnel and scampers to the foyer to catch Periwinkle as she tumbles out with the familiar whoosh. She is giggling and throws her paws around Stinky’s neck. She gives him a big whisker kiss and, as usual, asks, “What is the plan for today’s adventure?”

“I hope you won’t be disappointed, but we are staying right here. It is so dang hot, I really don’t feel like going anywhere,” Stinky replies.

“Are we just going to hang out on the catio?”

“Nope, I do have a project for us. We are going to make something for our moms.”

“Cool, what is it?”

All American Pet Photo Day

Stinky explains that today is All American Pet Photo Day, and since they are all-American cats, he wants to make some scrapbook pages for their moms with some of their favorite photos of themselves and their alter egos, Noelle and Sawyer. Stinky tells Periwinkle, “I know my mom posted some scrapbook pages previously, but it was two years ago when I was on my walkabout. So I know we have lots of other photos from more recent adventures.”

Periwinkle treplies, “I think that is a great idea for such a hot day. Let’s get to work.”

“Thanks for understanding. You can use my mom’s laptop to select photos you want to use, and I will use the iPad. I have them set up on the kitchen island.”

Periwinkle and Stinky head to the kitchen and get busy selecting photos and creating their scrapbook pages. They chatter as they work, telling each other about their week.

Scrapbook Pages

When they each have finished three pages, the tabbies take turns sharing with each other. Stinky lets Periwinkle go first.

 

Scrapbook page with multiple photos of cartoon tabby cats.

 

“That is really pretty, Periwinkle, and I your photo selections are purrfect,” exclaims Stinky. “Now it’s my turn.”

 

Scrapbook page with multiple photos of two cartoon tabby cats and two actual, grey tabby cats.

 

“Stinky, I love that you included Noelle and Sawyer. And that Tortola adventure is one of my very favorites. I’ve included a photo from it on my next page. I also included Sawyer and Noelle.”

 

Scrapbook page with multiple photos of two cartoon tabby cats as well as two live chickens, two actual tabby cats and an hot air balloon.

 

“Very nice, Noelle. Here’s my second page.”

 

Scrapbook page with two cartoon tabby cats as well as four actual tabby cats and a cat made of legos.

 

“Oh goody, you included Raleigh and Audrey. We sure have had a lot of fun adventures, Stinky, but I always loved visiting with the kittens. It is hard to believe their Gotcha Day is in just a couple of weeks. Here’s my last page.”

 

Scrapbook page with multiple photos of two cartoon tabby cats, two actual (grey) tabby cats and a Cheshire Cat created from flowers at Disney World.

 

“That was so nice of you to include a photo of us in Mau and Allie’s garden. I know our moms will really like that,” Stinky tells Periwinkle. I have my final page to share.”

 

 

Scrapbook page with multiple photos of two cartoon tabby cats and antique car, dinosaur eggs and six real cats.

 

“What wonderful times we have had together, Stinky. I know I am looking forward to lots more adventures. I think this was purrfect for All American Pet Photo Day. Is it time for a snack?”

“Yep. Let me clear off the island.”

 

Two cartoon tabby cats having cat treats at a kitchen counter.

 

“Excellent selections. When we finish, we can share some with your fursibs.”

After their snack, Periwinkle and Stinky take treats to the catio to share, and Periwinkle visits with Stinky’s family. Unfortunately, after that, it is time for Periwinkle to head home. The two tabbies spend a very long time paw hugging and whisker kissing before Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel. As she enters, the two blow each other a kiss, and she is gone in a whoosh.

The End

Periwinkle & Stinky are going to join the Happy Tuesday blog hop at Comedy Plus. Click on the badge below if you would like to do the same.

 

TOE BEANS & TAILIO TIME

Wordless Wednesday

 

A grey cat is under a turquoise afghan with only one foot, showing off toes beans, and part of her tailio visible.

 

Kizmet will be participating in the Wordless Wednesday blog hop at Comedy Plus. You can join her there by clicking on the WW badge.

Looking Back

I mentioned a few days ago that this week’s Looking Back post would be from when Sawyer was on his walkabout. The post I selected is actually one of Stinky & Periwinkle’s Adventures minus Stinky. It is from July 6, 2021. You can check it out at, “Stinky Please Come Home: Periwinkle Joins in the Search for Stinky.”

Thanks for joining us today. I hope you enjoy the Looking Back post. Please leave us a comment there if you do!

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CXC

Periwinkle is quite curious about today’s adventure. Stinky asked her to get to his house before the sun comes up. Not being a fan of missing out on her beauty sleep, she groaned when she got his text. But not wanting to miss out on spending the day with Stinky, she does as he asked.

Stinky is waiting with open paws when she comes tumbling from the teleportation tunnel with the usual whoosh. After a brief whisker kiss and paw hug, Stinky leads her back into the tunnel. Moments later, they arrive at their destination.

 

two cartoon tabby cats standing on a rock cliff beneath and cable-hung swinging bridge.

Sunrise

Immediately Periwinkle sees why Stinky wanted her to arrive so early at his house. The sun is just coming up over the mountain.

 

The sun coming up behind a mountain with a swinging bridge in the foreground.

 

“Stinky, this is breathtaking. Where are we?”

“That is Grandfather Mountain in the distance. It is 5,946 feet above northwest North Carolina and is part of the United Nations’ Southern Appalachian Biosphere Reserve. The mountain is estimated to be 300 million years old, and certain rock formations date back 1.2 billion years.”

Mile High Swinging Bridge

“Wow,” is all Periwinkle can say. Stinky asks her is she would like to go across the Mile High Swinging Bridge, as it will give them a 360-degree panoramic view. She declines but asks Stinky to tell her about it.

“Well, it is America’s highest suspension bridge. It is more than one mile in elevation, in other words 5,280 feet above sea level, and is 228-feet long. The chasm below is 80 feet.”

“Yep, I definitely don’t want to go out on it,” says Periwinkle.

Stinky takes Periwinkle’s paw as if to drag her toward the Bridge. She swats him away, and he grabs her in a big hug. He whispers to her that he’d never force her to do anything.

Stinky continues to tell Periwinkle about the bridge. “The original bridge cost $15,000 to construct and was fabricated in Greensboro. It was erected atop the mountain, which took three weeks. It was dedicated in 1952 and rebuilt in 1999. The rebuild used its original towers. Galvanized steel was used to replace the flooring, cables and side rails. The cost to rebuild it was $300,000. Unlike the original bridge, this one swings very little due to its improved construction. It does, however, sing—somewhat like a harmonica.”

The thought of that makes Periwinkle giggle.

Exploring Grandfather Mountain

The tabbies spend the next few hours exploring the area.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats among trees and foliage with a mountain in the background.

 

Stinky has to do a little climbing, and Periwinkle, as usual, admonishes him to be careful.

 

Purple rhododendron plants in foreground with mountains in the clouds in the background.

 

“Stinky, look how gorgeous these rhododendrons are. I wish we could pick some to take home to our moms.” 

“That would definitely get us in trouble. We have some blooming at my house. They aren’t as colorful, but if you like, you can take some of those home to Mom Sharon.”

“Thanks, Stinky.”

 

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing hats and having a picnic at the foot of a mountain.

 

“Oh boy, thanks for planning a picnic, Stinky. I am famished from all this hiking.”

“Me too.”

After lunch and a short nap, Periwinkle asks Stinky, “What’s next?”

“We are going to see Mildred the Bear.”

Periwinkle gives Stinky a quizzical look, as he takes her paw.

Wilson Center for Nature Discovery

 

Statue of a mother back bear standing on her hind legs with three cubs at her feet and two cartoon tabby cats.

 

Outside the Center, Stinky and Periwinkle find Mildred the Bear.  Stinky immediately climbs up on her front leg. Periwinkle decides not to say anything and jumps on the back of one of the cubs. “Oh Stinky, I thought Mildred was going to be a real bear,” exclaims Periwinkle.

“She was at one time. Mildred was born in 1966 at the the Atlanta Zoo. Two years later, Mildred needed a home in the wilderness and was brought to Grandfather Mountain to help increase the black bear population. She came with a male bear, but the moment he was released he disappeared. Mildred lived to age 26 and during that time birthed her own cubs as well as cared for orphaned cubs.”

“That is very cool, Stinky.”

“There is a lot more to the story. If our readers would like to read about Mildred, they can check out the website, Only in Our State, or read the book, Mildred the Bear, by Hugh Morton.

“Let’s go inside, Stinky.”

“Good idea. There is loads to see here, but it’s about time for us to head home. My dad, however, who has been here before, told me about something we should see. This is part of the Fauna Wall, which shows the diversity of species in the area with bird sculptures and animal imagery.

 

Collage with four different types of birds.

Clockwise from upper left corner: Rose Breasted Grosbeak, Wood Thrush, Eastern Screech Owl and Downy Woodpecker.

 

“These are really beautiful, Stinky. I don’t know if we have these birds in Florida, as I have never seen them around my house.”

“I have seen woodpeckers at my house, but I don’t know about the others, As I said, there is lots to see here. Our readers can find a list at Grandfather/Wilson Center.

Heading Home

“So, Periwinkle, it does seem to be time to head home,” says Stinky, as he takes her paw and leads her to the teleportation tunnel. Moments later they arrive at Stinky’s house. After a quick visit with Stinky’s fursibs and parents, Stinky and Periwinkle head to the yard to collect some rhododendron flowers for Mom Sharon. Finally, it is time for Periwinkle to head back to her house. She and Stinky spend several minutes paw hugging and whisker kissing before Periwinkle enters the tunnel. And then with a wave and a whoosh she is gone.

Stinky heads to the catio to nap and dream of Periwinkle.

The End

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

 

 

 

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 CLXXXVIII

Stinky is excited for Periwinkle’s and his adventure today. He is waiting with open paws when Periwinkle arrives with a whoosh from the teleportation tunnel. They spend several minutes whisker kissing and paw hugging. Then, before Periwinkle can say anything, Stinky leads her back into the tunnel.

Irvington, Virginia

Moments later they arrive outside a huge yellow house. Immediately Periwinkle recognizes where they are and says, ”Stinky, this is where your mom and dad spent their 50th wedding anniversary just a couple days ago.”

“Very good spotting, Periwinkle. My parents told me how beautiful this place is, so I knew we should come and check it out. Today we are only going to visit the Hope and Glory Inn and its beautiful gardens. We will come back another time to see some of the other local sites. The Inn is in Irvington, Virginia. The town sits on the shore of Carter’s Creek, a tributary to the Rappahannock River. It was formerly known as Carter’s Creek Wharf from from 1873 to 1891 and thrived as a steamboat port at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century. The town could only be reached by boat.​” 

If our readers would like to know more about the history of Irvington, this is a great site to explore: Welcome to the Town of Irvington, Virginia.

The Hope & Glory Inn

 

Hope and Glory Inn exterior

 

Stinky tells Periwinkle, “The Inn was originally an elite boarding school called the Chesapeake Male and Female Academy. It existed from 1889 to 1907. The Inn consists of six guest rooms upstairs, but my parents stayed in one of the cottages located among the gardens. They are original buildings to the school as well.”

“Stinky, let’s go check out those gardens,” Periwinkle suggests.

 

Brick path surrounded by a garden and with two cartoon tabbies on the path.

 

“Periwinkle, the path behind us leads to the pool, but it isn’t open yet.”

 

Two cartoon tabbies on a brick path through a garden.

 

“This is the path looking toward the Inn. There are cool signs throughout the garden with what our moms would call Sparks written on them. Unfortunately, some flowers like the peonies have finished blooming and others, like the hydrangeas, haven’t started yet. But there are lots of pots of flowers and other cool plants.”

 

Collage of four different plants.

 

“What are these plants?” asks Periwinkle.

“Starting in the upper left corner and going clockwise, they are: Rose campion, Chinese holly, Asian clematis and Japanese spindletree,” Stinky replies and then takes off toward an object in the yard.

The Mini Inn

 

Birdhouse replica of the Inn with a cartoon tabby cat standing on it.

 

“Stinky, please come down. You are going to scare the birds living in that house.”

“No I won’t. I promise not to stick my paws inside, but I just had to get up here at check out this cool replica of the Inn.”

“If you come down, I see something we can both climb on,” Periwinkle tells Stinky.

The Ballerina

“Wow, Periwinkle, this statue is perfect for us to climb on together.”

“And it offers a great view of the garden,” says Periwinkle.

 

Sculpture of a ballerina with two cartoon tabby cats standing on her tutu.

 

After the tabbies climb down, Stinky takes Periwinkle’s paw and tells her there is someone they need to meet. He leads her into the Inn’s dining room. That is where they find the person his mom and dad said is very special to the Inn.

 

Dining room at Hope and Glory in with two cartoon tabby cats.

 

Executive Chef Meseret Crockett

When Meseret sees the tabbies she hurries to meet them and give them big hugs. She is a cat person, and Stinky’s mom told her he and Periwinkle would be visiting. She invites them out to the garden to take a photo with her.

 

Photo of Chef Meseret Crockett in a garden with two cartoon tabby cats at her feet.

 

Chef Meseret is a native of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She was educated in French schools and graduated from the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts. Our readers can learn much more about Chef Meseret under the Dining section on the Hope and Glory Inn’s website. After a nice visit, Chef Meseret tells Periwinkle & Stinky that she would like to fix them one of her specialities for their lunch. She suggests they sit at the bistro table outside Cottage One, which is where Stinky’s parents had their breakfast every morning. The tabbies are happy to oblige.

A Gourmet Lunch

Soon after they settle into their seats, Meseret brings them lunch—her famous crab cakes, which are made with no fillers, just crab and aioli.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats sitting at a bistro table outside a cottage and eating crab cakes.

 

Periwinkle and Stinky immediately dive into their lunch. They can be heard oohing and ahhing as they eat. Stinky tells Periwinkle that the crab cakes are every bit as good as his parents said they were. Periwinkle agrees that they are exceptionally nommy delicious.

After lunch, the tabbies thank Meseret for the extraordinary lunch and promise to return, just as Stinky’s mom and dad had done. It is then time to enter the teleportation tunnel for the return trip to Stinky’s house.

When they arrive, Periwinkle spends some time visiting with Stinky’s parents as well as his fursibs. But, finally, it is time for her to return home. After several minutes of whisker kissing and paw hugs, Periwinkle enters the tunnel and is gone in a whoosh.

Stinky heads to the catio to nap and dream of Periwinkle and delicious crab cakes.

The End

Periwinkle & Stinky will be participating in the Happy Tuesday blog hop at Comedy Plus. If you’d like to do the same, click on the badge below.

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLXXXVI

Stinky is anxious for Periwinkle’s arrival. Before they embark on their adventure, he has something really cool to show her in the yard. He knows she’ll squeal and clap her paws, and it always makes him happy to see her excited. He doesn’t have to wait long for her arrival. After the familiar whoosh, Periwinkle comes tumbling out of the teleportation tunnel right into Stinky’s paws. They share several paw hugs and whisker kisses. Then Stinky takes Periwinkle’s paw and leads her outside before she can even ask about his plans.

Baby Robins

 

Birds nest with three baby robins.

 

When Periwinkle spies what Stinky brought her to the yard to see, she reacts just as he predicted. Hopping from back paw to back paw and clapping her front paws together, Periwinkle squeals and says, “Oh Stinky, they are so adorable. Look at their little mouths are wide open as they wait to be fed. Do you know what kind of birds they are?”

Stinky responds, “I didn’t until yesterday. Mom saw the mother bird come to feed them yesterday. They are baby robins.”

“They certainly are crammed into that nest. I bet they will be flying soon,” says Periwinkle.

“Probably so,” replies Stinky. “So, are you ready for our adventure?”

“Well, I could watch these cute little birdies all day, but, sure, let’s get cracking,” replies Periwinkle.

Stinky leads her back into the teleportation tunnel and moments later they arrive at what looks like a quaint little village. Stinky tells Periwinkle that they are in Old Salem in North Carolina.

Old Salem, North Carolina

Stinky gives Periwinkle a little information about their locale: “This is an historic district of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The Moravian community originally settled it in 1766. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1966. The district exhibits the culture of the Moravian settlement during the 18th and 19th centuries, which includes communal buildings, churches, houses and shops. The history of the district is quite interesting. I suggest our readers check it out on Wikipedia. If I try to tell them about it, it will take me all day.”

The tabbies begin walking around the district stopping often to take photos.

T.  Bagge Merchant

 

Stone building with reddish/brown shudders and bench in front with two cartoon tabby cats.

 

“Periwinkle, I like your new fur adornment. You look very pretty.”

“Thank you, Stinky. I got it inside. This store has the funniest name. It is T. Bagge Merchant. I think if using my initial sounded like what someone uses to make tea, I would use my first name.”

“Do you know the person’s first name?” Stinky asks.

“Yes, it is Traugott,” replies Periwinkle.

“Well, there is your answer, Periwinkle. That is definitely a weird name!”

Periwinkle tells Stinky, “He came to the United Staes from Sweden. If our readers would like to know more about him, they should check out NCPedia.”

A. Butner Hat Shop

 

Two cartoon tabby cats sitting on a bench in front of a shop with a sign with a top hat and the words, "A. Butner 1825."

 

Finding another cute shop, the tabbies go inside to see what they can find out about it. The nice lady working there tells Periwinkle & Stinky that the proprietor, Adam Butner, first opened the hat shop when he came to the area, but he was best known as the operator of the Salem Tavern, which he purchased in 1850.

“Too bad he wasn’t around in the late 1700s, as George Washington visited the establishment in 1791,” Stinky remarks.

Frederick Edward Belo Sculptures

 

Two cartoon tabby cats with iron sculptures of a dog and a lion.

 

“Stinky, please get down. As usual, you are making me nervous,” Periwinkle tells Stinky. She then asks him what he knows about the sculptures.

“This fellow Belo…” Periwinkle starts to giggle before Stinky can say anything else. He gives her the stink eye, and she puts her paw over her mouth.

“As I was saying, Belo was trained as a cabinetmaker. However, he built a brick store on Main Street. He and his family lived on the second floor. At a later date, a third floor was added to accommodate staff. This guy was really multi-talented. He created the dog and lion sculptures in his foundry along with iron railings and grills for his home. Originally there were two dogs. Oh, and he helped build a railroad between Winston-Salem and Greensboro, North Carolina.  He also was a farmer and raised flowers as well. If our readers would like to know more about Belo and his house, they can find that info at Salem Congregation and Winston-Salem Time Traveler.”

“Wow, Stinky, I wonder when he found time to sleep?”

Salem College

“Stinky, this is beautiful. Where are we now?”

As Stinky hops to the top of the fountain, he tells Periwinkle, “This is Salem College.”

 

Two tabby cats in a courtyard garden with a fountain and a bench between brick buildings.

 

Periwinkle considers asking Stinky to get down but knows he won’t listen, so she just tells him, “If cats attended college, I’d like to go here; it’s so beautiful.”

“You could, but I wouldn’t be able to come with you.”

Periwinkle asks, “Why not?”

“Well, Salem College is a private women’s liberal arts college. It was founded in 1772 as a primary school, then became an academy and ultimately the college was added. My mom found the coolest old photos of the college and students on-line and says that they are definitely worth looking at. Here’s the link if our readers want to check them out: Winston-Salem Journal.”

“Your mom’s right, Stinky. Those are great photos!”

“We need to make one more stop, Periwinkle, and then I have a great place for us to have a picnic before we head home. Let’s pop back into our tunnel, as where we are going is about four miles from here.

“Sounds great, Stinky.”

Reynolda Gardens

These are Reynolda Gardens. The grounds were part of the Reynolda estate established in 1917 by Katharine Smith Reynolds and her husband R. J. Reynolds, founder of the R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. The Gardens are now part of Wake Forest University. They serve as a 134-acre outdoor horticultural site and are open to the public from dawn to dusk all year-round. There are colorful gardens, scenic walking trails and a waterfall.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats on a path between rows of red and white tulips.

 

“Stinky, this is gorgeous and so peaceful. We could have our picnic here.”

“We could, but I think you’ll enjoy where we are going after this. We’ll need to go back to the teleportation tunnel, as it is about 72 miles away by car.”

Lover’s Leap

“You are right, Stinky, this is the purrfect place for our picnic. The scenery is fabulous. Where are we?”

“This is Lover’s Leap in Meadows of Dan, Virginia,” replies Stinky.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats, on a cliff with a pole with locks left by lovers, having a picnic.

 

“Why is it called Lover’s Leap and what are the locks for?” Periwinkle asks.

Stinky tells Periwinkle that there is a legend about a settler’s son who fell in love with an Indian maiden, Morning Flower, who was the Chief’s daughter. The couple would meet secretly, and their love grew. The couple was shunned and threatened, so they decided to jump from the spot and ensure they would always be together.

“That is very romantic, Stinky, but let’s not do the same. Now, what about the locks?” asks Periwinkle.

“Couples put their names or initials on the padlocks. Then they lock them on the pole to symbolize that their love is unbreakable. The key is thrown off the cliff. It is a tradition that is practiced all over the world. Often the padlocks are placed on bridges and the keys thrown in the river.”

“Wow, Stinky I wish we’d brought a lock to add to the pole.”

“What makes you think I didn’t?” asks Stinky.

Periwinkle looks again at the pole and sees a fuchsia padlock with Stinky and her logo on it. She gasps, gets tears in her eyes and throws her paws around Stinky’s neck. “When did you do that, Stinky?”

“While you were unpacking the treats.”

“You are the best boyfriend in the whole world. Thank you!”

After more hugging, the tabbies settle down to have their snacks and admire the view. When they finish, the tabbies pack up and return to the teleportation tunnel for the trip back to Stinky’s house.

Stinky’s House

“Stinky, let’s go check out the baby robins,” suggests Periwinkle. “Hey, there’s only one in the nest now.”

“My mom says two of the babies left the nest right after you and I departed on our adventure. I guess they are now on an adventure of their own,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

“Hope it’s a good one! This has been a terrific day, Stinky, Thank you. I guess it’s time for me to head back home.”

The tabbies spend several minutes paw hugging and whisker kissing. Then Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel and with a wave and a whoosh leaves for home.

Stinky retires to the catio to tell his fursibs about the day’s adventure.

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.

 

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CLXXXIV

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored by any brand, manufacturer
or supplier. It is meant for informational purposes only. Neither Stinky, Periwinkle, Kitties Blue nor The Cat on My Head personally endorse
or recommend any products mentioned here.

Periwinkle’s Arrival

Stinky is fairly certain that even though today’s adventure is going to be very helpful for pet owners, it may not be that much fun for Periwinkle and him. Nonetheless, they will get to spend the day together, which is always enjoyable. As Stinky waits for Periwinkle, he is thinking about all the supplies they will need for today. He is caught off guard when the teleportation begins to shake, but he’s ready when Periwinkle comes whooshing out.

The two tabbies spend several minutes paw hugging and whisker kissing before Periwinkle asks the inevitable question: “So what’s on the agenda today, Stinky?”

National Pet First Aid Awareness Month

“Something that may not be much fun, but I think important to share with our readers,” Stinky replies. Periwinkle gives him a quizzical look before he can explain. Stinky quickly continues, “April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month. It’s the American Red Cross’s way of drawing attention to the need for pet owners to know specialized pet first aid.”

“Okay, so what is the plan with regard to pet first aid?” asks Periwinkle.

“Well I thought we could let our friends’ humans know what to put in their cat-specific first aid kit.“

“Stinky, you are right, that doesn’t sound like much fun, but it is important. And, even though, our fursibs and most of our friends are inside cats, it doesn’t mean they’ll never get hurt or sick.”

“Very true, Periwinkle. You know my big brother, Angel Mau, was bitten by a neighbor cat in 2017. He was an inside/outside cat, but it is still possible to get bitten or scratched by one of your fursibs. Here’s a couple of photos to show how serious injuries like this can be.

 

Black cat with bites on back.

Tuxedo Cat with white bandage around torso.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“My mom and dad cleaned him up really well and put antiseptic on the wound before bandaging it up.”

Pre-Made First Aid Kits

“Lots of retailers like Chewy, Amazon, Walmart and even Etsy have first aid kits for pets, but I think we should let our readers know what kind of things to include if they want to make one for their cat,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

“That’s a good idea, Stinky, but, most importantly, we need to remind pet parents that a first aid kit is for just that…first aid. Humans always need to take their pet to the vet if they are sick or injured. And that may mean the emergency vet if it is after hours or on a weekend.”

“That’s right, Periwinkle. Though my mom and dad gave first aid to Mau, they took him to the vet the first thing the following morning.”

Cat First Aid Guides

“Most kits will include a first aid guide, but if not or if pet parents want to create their own kit, I found some guides at Amazon,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

Here are three:

😺 The Cat First Aid book by the American Red Cross, includes the symptoms and care for more than 60 feline health conditions.
It also includes instructions for putting together a pet first aid kit as well as how to administer medications and recognize what constitutes an emergency.

😺 First Aid for Cats: An Owner’s Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet by Stefanie Schwartz, DVM

😺 The First-Aid Companion for Dogs & Cats by Amy Shojai. (My mom knows her. She is the founder of the Cat Writers’ Association and an award winning author who has written 35-plus pet care books.)

Assembling Your Own First Aid Kit

“Stinky, what should our humans include in their cat first aid kit?”

“Here’s a list of suggestions for a cat first aid kit, Periwinkle. These are based on what I found included in some pre-made kits as well as the Red Cross site and the Pet Poison Helpline.

∗ alcohol wipes/prep pads
∗ antiseptic wipes, lotion or spray
∗ latex-free, disposable gloves
∗ sterile saline
∗ cotton balls or swabs
∗ styptic powder or pencil
∗ iodine prep pads
∗ sting relief pads
∗ adhesive tape
∗ sterile, non-stick gauze pads in multiple sizes and gauze rolls
∗ 5 x 9 inch sterile trauma pad
∗ two-inch elastic bandage
∗ instant cold packs
∗ thermal foil emergency blanket
∗ blunt-tip scissors
∗ tweezers
∗ tongue depressor
∗ bottle opener
∗ flexible rectal thermometer with petroleum jelly or other pet-safe lubricant
∗ eyewash
∗ ear-cleaning solution

Additional Important Information

I addition, if purchasing a first aid kit that is not cat specific, items may be included that should not be used for cats, such as hydrogen peroxide.

It is also a good idea to have the phone numbers of your veterinarian, the local 24-hour emergency vet and the ASPCA Poison Control  Center inside the kit.

“Wow, Stinky, you really did your research. I hope our readers will save this post so they can make their own Cat First Aid Kit if they don’t already have one.”

“Thanks, Periwinkle. Maybe, if our readers have any other items they think should be in the kit, they can let us know in the comments.”

“That’s a great idea.”

Visiting Mau & Allie’s Garden

“Stinky, what would you think about going outside in the fresh air and enjoying a snack?” asks Periwinkle.

“That also is a great idea. Since Mau was a part of our post, let’s visit him,” Stinky suggests.

 

First Aid: Cat Three purple tulips and a garden stone with the words: Mauricio and Allie's Garden Forever Loved & In Our Hearts.

 

“I always love visiting this beautiful place, Stinky. It’s so peaceful!”

“I agree, Periwinkle. Let’s have our picnic here.”

 

Cat First Aid: Cartoon tabbies sitting on a bench with a pineapple motif along with jars of treats and with a red plaid picnic blanket on the ground.

 

“Stinky, this is a wonderful end to our day. I know the information we provided our readers today was super important, but relaxing with you outside in the sunshine is my definition of a purrfect day.”

“I totally agree, Periwinkle!”

After their snack and a little nap, Stinky and Periwinkle spend time whisker kissing and paw hugging. Then it’s time for Periwinkle to return home, and Stinky accompanies her the the teleportation tunnel. With final waves and blown kisses, Periwinkle enters the tunnel and is gone in a whoosh. Stinky heads to the catio to spend time with his fursibs.

The End

 

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