As you remember, the last time we heard from our little sortie, they were napping in sunpuddles after feasting at the picnic. The SS Extra Helping had been scheduled to leave that night, but due to grogginess on the part of the crew, departure was delayed until the next morning.
That evening at dusk saw the appearance of a ragged remnant of the Acorn Liberation Front, attacking the birdfeeders in the Countess' TV. A quick raid involving General Boopsie Bear, Agent Blackjack and our fearless Knights dispatched them summarily. Their tails were taken as trophies and sailed as pennants from masts of our lovely ship.
Fires were lit and songs were composed in honor of our brave heroes. Mario, who has a surprisingly deep bass, had the most courtly way with words and was summarily appointed Court Musician by Princess Treasure. Congratulations, Mario!
The skies were full of shooting stars and Audrey could not resist trying to catch a few. Eventually the flames turned into embers and conversation became quiet.
The next morning arrived with a glorious blue sky. After a farewell Continental Breakfast of poached salmon garnished with pickled voles tails, we reluctantly bid good-bye to the loving and loyal Countess. Promises of future meetings were exchanged. As a token of the journey, everyone was presented with a ruby paw-ring.
The wind was with our little crew and they speedily arrived back at the Realm of Capitol Drive. Many citizens and allies, including several members of the Ladies of Autumn, were on hand to greet the Princesses with a round of 'For They are Jolly Good Royals' and cheers. Mousepops were served to all present to commemorate the day.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Poop Deck Picnic
The next morning arrived bright, with a mild breeze. All agreed it was a fine day to munch on frogs legs during a poop deck picnic. Dante and Sir Spitfire (who has secretly pledged to reform his ways) accompanied the Princess Coco to the yacht to snoopervise the firing up of the grill. Mario accompanied them, promising a special marinade and sauce for the legs.
While all three were assisting in these chores, Princess Coco consulted with First Mate Cheezit and Quartermaster Scruffy. There had been no sightings of nefarious dogs. Revolting squirrels had wisely avoided the perimeter of the Realm of The Glen. Today's weather offered smooth sailing, if Princess Treasure were to decide to cast off.
Soon, all were gathered on the deck partaking of this fine, but casual repast; HRH the Princess Treasure had cast so much formality aside that she even picked up a leg with her claws! When silence fell across the group at this, she noted how close she felt to everyone and that she hoped everyone would put aside court manners for the afternoon. After a short, stunned silence, a cheer erupted. Hats were tossed in the air and Spitty was seen chasing Audrey around the stern.
The meal completed, and formal attire set aside, everyone found their favorite sunpuddle and settled down to let lunch digest.
While all three were assisting in these chores, Princess Coco consulted with First Mate Cheezit and Quartermaster Scruffy. There had been no sightings of nefarious dogs. Revolting squirrels had wisely avoided the perimeter of the Realm of The Glen. Today's weather offered smooth sailing, if Princess Treasure were to decide to cast off.
Soon, all were gathered on the deck partaking of this fine, but casual repast; HRH the Princess Treasure had cast so much formality aside that she even picked up a leg with her claws! When silence fell across the group at this, she noted how close she felt to everyone and that she hoped everyone would put aside court manners for the afternoon. After a short, stunned silence, a cheer erupted. Hats were tossed in the air and Spitty was seen chasing Audrey around the stern.
The meal completed, and formal attire set aside, everyone found their favorite sunpuddle and settled down to let lunch digest.
The Glen
Certainly Katie Isabella could not have chosen a lovelier location than the Glen for our dinner that night! This magical copse in the woods near her castle delicately allowed streamers of sunset light to color the atmosphere, rays bouncing off the multi-colored wildflowers. Hummingbirds, wrens, finches and other birds provided a living, darting ceiling of color and song. Lovely yellow butterflies and blue ones drifted from flower to flower.
Never has such comfort been experienced as on the dandelion-fluff filled quilts. The table settings were impeccable, since peridot is flattering to any kitty, as is known the world over. Roasted leg of vole and breast of dove were delectable, perhaps even more so due to the splendor of the setting and grace of the service.
Special mention must be made of the favors-the delightful gold castings of Bas made from Egyptian-era molds. So lifelike, so real, and so much in the image of Princess Treasure, further proof of her nobility.
After a gracious and modest welcome to The Land of The Glen, the Countess heard the proclamation written by Sir Ambassador Scout Ringo and denounced by Dante. It notes her to be a worthy heir to the Admiral and a Southern lady replete with all feline social graces. She gently accepted a continuance of the alliance formed with the Admiral and expressed her gratitude for the favors extended to her by all to date.
Following this, the Countess led all on a tour of her governance, including the Glen, th e neighboring meadow policed by Agent Blackjack and her castle, including the new cat tree she has been gifted with. All found a place to snuggle so the night hours could be wiled away counting hummingbirds.
Never has such comfort been experienced as on the dandelion-fluff filled quilts. The table settings were impeccable, since peridot is flattering to any kitty, as is known the world over. Roasted leg of vole and breast of dove were delectable, perhaps even more so due to the splendor of the setting and grace of the service.
Special mention must be made of the favors-the delightful gold castings of Bas made from Egyptian-era molds. So lifelike, so real, and so much in the image of Princess Treasure, further proof of her nobility.
After a gracious and modest welcome to The Land of The Glen, the Countess heard the proclamation written by Sir Ambassador Scout Ringo and denounced by Dante. It notes her to be a worthy heir to the Admiral and a Southern lady replete with all feline social graces. She gently accepted a continuance of the alliance formed with the Admiral and expressed her gratitude for the favors extended to her by all to date.
Following this, the Countess led all on a tour of her governance, including the Glen, th e neighboring meadow policed by Agent Blackjack and her castle, including the new cat tree she has been gifted with. All found a place to snuggle so the night hours could be wiled away counting hummingbirds.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Introductions
After the frog hunt, it was time to prepare for meeting the Countess who is the reason for our voyage. All went below deck to groom furs and to prepare evening finery.
The crew weighed anchor at the end of Frogamore Creek, just a few feet from land. Dingys were prepared for lowering into the water. Finally, the entourage was on deck.
In the first boat went Mario, Dante, Agent Blackjack and General Boopsie Bear. Upon arrival at the landing, Mario and Dante, in ceremonial moss green sashes, pulled their kazoos and let forth a peal of blasts to announce the Princess' arrival. Agent Blackjack and General Boopsie Bear, both in dress military uniform, made a ceremonial turn around the landing with penants in hand.
The second boat bore Sirs Spitfire and Simba with Lady Audrey. Upon landing, and after assisting Lady Audrey to land, Sirs Simba and Spitfire bore standards to the far end of the landing. Both were most dashing in the court helmets of bronze accented by chrysomalechite. Lady Audrey paraded down the landing in a teal gown, wearing a collar of iolite. She tossed daisy petals in her wake.
The final boat carried Sir Ambassador Scout Ringo wearing all medals on his formal evening attire. Princess Coco was innocence herself in pink dotted swiss and her beloved moonstone collar. Princess Treasure appeared regal in gold brocade adorned with pearls.
As the boat was tied to dock, Countess Isabella, resplendent in red, awaited at attention at the entrance to the landing. Sir Ambassador Scout Ringo handed up both Princesses, who paraded down the runway arm in arm. Upon reaching the halfway mark, they paused to allow the Countess to approach them. As she did, Sir Ringo read from the family tree to demonstrate the Countess' membership in the Sphynx Clan and cousinship to the Princesses. Finally, Princess Coco presented the Countess with a garnet drop collar as a momento of the occasion while Princess Treasure graciously received the Countess' curtsey. Hurrahs burst forth from all attendants as Princess Treasure bestowed a nose tap on the Countess.
With this, it was onto the banquet prepared most ably by Countess Katie and her able staff.
The crew weighed anchor at the end of Frogamore Creek, just a few feet from land. Dingys were prepared for lowering into the water. Finally, the entourage was on deck.
In the first boat went Mario, Dante, Agent Blackjack and General Boopsie Bear. Upon arrival at the landing, Mario and Dante, in ceremonial moss green sashes, pulled their kazoos and let forth a peal of blasts to announce the Princess' arrival. Agent Blackjack and General Boopsie Bear, both in dress military uniform, made a ceremonial turn around the landing with penants in hand.
The second boat bore Sirs Spitfire and Simba with Lady Audrey. Upon landing, and after assisting Lady Audrey to land, Sirs Simba and Spitfire bore standards to the far end of the landing. Both were most dashing in the court helmets of bronze accented by chrysomalechite. Lady Audrey paraded down the landing in a teal gown, wearing a collar of iolite. She tossed daisy petals in her wake.
The final boat carried Sir Ambassador Scout Ringo wearing all medals on his formal evening attire. Princess Coco was innocence herself in pink dotted swiss and her beloved moonstone collar. Princess Treasure appeared regal in gold brocade adorned with pearls.
As the boat was tied to dock, Countess Isabella, resplendent in red, awaited at attention at the entrance to the landing. Sir Ambassador Scout Ringo handed up both Princesses, who paraded down the runway arm in arm. Upon reaching the halfway mark, they paused to allow the Countess to approach them. As she did, Sir Ringo read from the family tree to demonstrate the Countess' membership in the Sphynx Clan and cousinship to the Princesses. Finally, Princess Coco presented the Countess with a garnet drop collar as a momento of the occasion while Princess Treasure graciously received the Countess' curtsey. Hurrahs burst forth from all attendants as Princess Treasure bestowed a nose tap on the Countess.
With this, it was onto the banquet prepared most ably by Countess Katie and her able staff.
Frogs a-hopping
Hello, this is Maxie Manx reporting the results of the frog catching contest held in Frogamore Creek this afternoon.
It was an exciting day held in perfect conditions for such a contest; the air was dry, but the recent rains left plenty of mud to track the frogs. Indeed, the mud was sticky enough to trap some frogs, adding a slight fillip to the proceedings.
Signed up for the race were both Knights, Mario, Dante and Lady Audrey. Lady Audrey was in the number one position at the Gate, extending out were Mario, Sir Spitfire, Dante and Sir Simba. The bell was rung by Princess Coco and they were off!
In the lead was Mario, followed closely by Lady Audrey and Dante Sirs Simba and Spitfire appear to be a bit weighted down by their gear. We shall see if they can turn this into an advantage.
At the first turn Lady Audrey spots a frog and takes it down handily. Dante finds the head of the clan, a fine looking specimen, and takes off after it. Mario does a two for one, bringing first one down, then somersaulting to catch a second one in pre-hop position.
Sir Spitfire finds a frog hiding in the end of a log and uses the tip of his sword to flip it into the air before catching it on the end of same sword. Not to be outdone, Sir Simba racks up three frogs on the same arrow, an amazing feat of archery.
Now they are all past the halfway point. Sir Spitfire appears to be reforming and focusses his energy on using his mace to stun a half-dozen frogs before scooping them into his creel--he just avoided landing in the soup that time! Sir Simba continues to bring in frogs with each arrow. Mario repeats his two for one while Lady Audrey brings down a sweet trio with a tail flick sweet to behold. And finally, Dante continues to bring down the jumbo sized delights that may be too much for the others to handle.
They've all passed the finish line now and it is time for the judges to assess the catch.
Results are being announced now: Lady Audrey wins best maneuver for the invention of her tidy little tail flick good for three frogs. Mario's two for one somersault wins steadiest maneuver for his consistent results. Dante wins for heaviest catch recorded while Sir Simba receives the Finn McCool medal for archery. But our champion is Sir Spitfire for risking wet toes in bringing down 6 frogs simultaneously.
It was an exciting day held in perfect conditions for such a contest; the air was dry, but the recent rains left plenty of mud to track the frogs. Indeed, the mud was sticky enough to trap some frogs, adding a slight fillip to the proceedings.
Signed up for the race were both Knights, Mario, Dante and Lady Audrey. Lady Audrey was in the number one position at the Gate, extending out were Mario, Sir Spitfire, Dante and Sir Simba. The bell was rung by Princess Coco and they were off!
In the lead was Mario, followed closely by Lady Audrey and Dante Sirs Simba and Spitfire appear to be a bit weighted down by their gear. We shall see if they can turn this into an advantage.
At the first turn Lady Audrey spots a frog and takes it down handily. Dante finds the head of the clan, a fine looking specimen, and takes off after it. Mario does a two for one, bringing first one down, then somersaulting to catch a second one in pre-hop position.
Sir Spitfire finds a frog hiding in the end of a log and uses the tip of his sword to flip it into the air before catching it on the end of same sword. Not to be outdone, Sir Simba racks up three frogs on the same arrow, an amazing feat of archery.
Now they are all past the halfway point. Sir Spitfire appears to be reforming and focusses his energy on using his mace to stun a half-dozen frogs before scooping them into his creel--he just avoided landing in the soup that time! Sir Simba continues to bring in frogs with each arrow. Mario repeats his two for one while Lady Audrey brings down a sweet trio with a tail flick sweet to behold. And finally, Dante continues to bring down the jumbo sized delights that may be too much for the others to handle.
They've all passed the finish line now and it is time for the judges to assess the catch.
Results are being announced now: Lady Audrey wins best maneuver for the invention of her tidy little tail flick good for three frogs. Mario's two for one somersault wins steadiest maneuver for his consistent results. Dante wins for heaviest catch recorded while Sir Simba receives the Finn McCool medal for archery. But our champion is Sir Spitfire for risking wet toes in bringing down 6 frogs simultaneously.
Friday, May 18, 2012
Here ye! Here ye!
HRH Princess Coco's voyage had been proceeding expeditiously but with all innate feline reserve about water.
Agent Blackjack continues to wear his wellies, the aqua color of which does set off his black furs enticingly. He has been conferring with General Boopsie Bear regarding the status of the Acorn Liberation Front, to which General had sent much support when revolution broke out several years ago. Agent Blackjack has been able to report that most cells have been forcibly disbanded and 8 of 10 ringleaders apprehended.
Sir Ambassador Scout Ringo has been preparing a proclamation to be read upon arrival.
Sirs Spitfire and Simba have been running drills with Quartermaster Scruffy to ensure they will be 'in synch' during ritual maneuvers and quick to draw their swords if needed to protect Their Royal Highnesses.
Lady Audrey, Mario and Dante have been indulging in some cat piles and have been joined by everyone during their breaks.
Princess Treasure has had a private audience with each person on board, from the lowest matey to swab the decks to HRH Princess Coco the Most Adorable. She had heard cases and made the wise, judicious decisions for which she has become legendary. She has also received pleasing tribute.
After travelling through Happylands and Happenstance via the River Misstep, the ship has now turned the (tributary corner) to the Pecan Delta and is proceeding up the Frogamore Creek. It is expected they will land at Countess Katie Isabella's pier at sundown tonight. This afternoon's entertainment will be a contest to see who can catch the most frogs for the creek with a planned frogslegs luncheon upon the yacht tomorrow.
News of the Countess' plans for our arrival sound most auspicious!
Agent Blackjack continues to wear his wellies, the aqua color of which does set off his black furs enticingly. He has been conferring with General Boopsie Bear regarding the status of the Acorn Liberation Front, to which General had sent much support when revolution broke out several years ago. Agent Blackjack has been able to report that most cells have been forcibly disbanded and 8 of 10 ringleaders apprehended.
Sir Ambassador Scout Ringo has been preparing a proclamation to be read upon arrival.
Sirs Spitfire and Simba have been running drills with Quartermaster Scruffy to ensure they will be 'in synch' during ritual maneuvers and quick to draw their swords if needed to protect Their Royal Highnesses.
Lady Audrey, Mario and Dante have been indulging in some cat piles and have been joined by everyone during their breaks.
Princess Treasure has had a private audience with each person on board, from the lowest matey to swab the decks to HRH Princess Coco the Most Adorable. She had heard cases and made the wise, judicious decisions for which she has become legendary. She has also received pleasing tribute.
After travelling through Happylands and Happenstance via the River Misstep, the ship has now turned the (tributary corner) to the Pecan Delta and is proceeding up the Frogamore Creek. It is expected they will land at Countess Katie Isabella's pier at sundown tonight. This afternoon's entertainment will be a contest to see who can catch the most frogs for the creek with a planned frogslegs luncheon upon the yacht tomorrow.
News of the Countess' plans for our arrival sound most auspicious!
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Sailing, Sailing.....
From the Princess Treasure's Diary:
Finally we are off! I have really been so intrigued by the reports of I have heard of the Countess' vivacity that it is good to be on the way. It is too bad our start was delayed by bad weather.
Sir Spitfire seems to have forgotten any military discipline he knows; it is amazing that a rookie like Sir Simba is setting the better example. What shall We do with our Spitty? Lord knows he is entertaining enough. However, I will not have Coco subjected to such blatant flirtation.
Now, Mario, Simba and Dante, there are some fine gentlemen.....Simba has learned when he can go that extra bit (like stealing the kiss from Queen Miss Catt), Mario's bashfullness ensures appropriate behavior and Dante has a naturally regal and reserved personality. We are very satisfied and amused by their genteel ways.
Lady Audrey is a most pleasant companion and has helped to while away the hours when we were in drydock yesterday.
The Countess has asked if she should row out to meet us; I think it better that we proceed the way planned and have the first meeting on land. It would be a shame if she also succumbed to seasickness!
Through Happylands and passing through Happenstance now. I am glad Coco could plan a rout to avoid the Hinterlands. The Misstep River is pleasant this time of year.
Finally we are off! I have really been so intrigued by the reports of I have heard of the Countess' vivacity that it is good to be on the way. It is too bad our start was delayed by bad weather.
Sir Spitfire seems to have forgotten any military discipline he knows; it is amazing that a rookie like Sir Simba is setting the better example. What shall We do with our Spitty? Lord knows he is entertaining enough. However, I will not have Coco subjected to such blatant flirtation.
Now, Mario, Simba and Dante, there are some fine gentlemen.....Simba has learned when he can go that extra bit (like stealing the kiss from Queen Miss Catt), Mario's bashfullness ensures appropriate behavior and Dante has a naturally regal and reserved personality. We are very satisfied and amused by their genteel ways.
Lady Audrey is a most pleasant companion and has helped to while away the hours when we were in drydock yesterday.
The Countess has asked if she should row out to meet us; I think it better that we proceed the way planned and have the first meeting on land. It would be a shame if she also succumbed to seasickness!
Through Happylands and passing through Happenstance now. I am glad Coco could plan a rout to avoid the Hinterlands. The Misstep River is pleasant this time of year.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)