THE CHRONICLES OF HOLLYHOCK HILL: August 2010

MRS HESSIE MOUSE ARRIVES BACK HOME

W E L C O M E H O M E

There is much excitement amongst the folks here at Hollyhock Hill today as Mrs Hessie Mouse has arrived back home safe and sound, after her big holiday to the land far, far away and over the big waters.

Mr Johnny has made all sorts of preparations to welcome his darling wife, as he has missed her terribly. His bachelor days are well and truly over he says, there is nothing to compare with contented married life. The cottage has been scrubbed clean from top to bottom and on the advice of Mumma Bunny and Mrs McKluckity new lace curtains adorn the windows. A most beautiful arrangement of pink roses, fit for a queen, sits on the dining table. No effort has been spared to welcome home their dear friend.

Cakes have been baked and a variety of dishes prepared in readiness for the welcome home party. It has been decided to hold the party in the garden as it is such a lovely sunshine day, the first day of spring is just around the corner and the weather today is perfect.

Mrs Hessie declares how good it is to be home again even though she did have a wonderful time. She has missed her darling Mr Johnny and her dear friends so very much. The time went very fast as there was so much to do and see. All her relatives are well and were so pleased to catch up with her. There were many late nights spent sharing stories and just reminiscing of things past. The days were full of sightseeing, shopping, lunch and afternoon tea.
One of the highlights of her trip was being able to find more pieces for her collection of fine china.

Mrs Hessie is especially fond of the Brambly Hedge range and there was plenty of it available. She does so love to set a fine table. Her own tea set did have a few missing pieces which had been broken some time ago so it was thrilling for her to find a complete set beautifully packed in a lovely basket. So easy for storage and so on. Gifts for her dear friends included a lovely pink decanter for Mrs Annie to keep her rosewater in, Mrs Annie loves to smooth pure rosewater onto her face
she says it keeps her skin soft and clean, and shaving soap and brush for Mr Peter. A collection of beautiful vintage teacups, for Mrs McKluckity, Mumma Bunny and Madame Cheree to choose from, they could have whichever one they liked best. Mr McKluckity was presented with a lovely set of hand garden tools as he is a keen vegetable gardener. Mr Johnny was given a handsome new tweed coat, and Mr Dusty and I received a leather bound journal each. Mr Johnny had written and told Mrs Hessie about Miss Ashanthi and she was not forgotten either, Mrs Hessie had brought her a lovely English cottage tea pot cosy seeing she is so very fond of her tea. The afternoon went by very quickly indeed as there was so much to talk about.

Mrs Hessie was thrilled to hear about the soon coming Craft Show and the ladies chatted on about what they were going to exhibit. Mrs Hessie is quite skilled with a needle and thread herself and said that she would exhibit more that one piece of needlework and give those at Catnip Downs a bit of competition. Oh everyone was so very glad to have her back home again.
She tut tutted when told about Miss Pearl's shenanigans, and the goings on by the Blackbird boys and had a bit of a giggle, as did we all, about poor Mrs Fluffybot. She heartily agreed that No2 Grassy Lane would make a most wonderful boarding establishment for young ladies and congratulated Miss Ashanthi on her new position. Mrs Hessie said she would start needle work classes for the young ladies if Miss Ashanthi felt that to be a good idea.
We were such a jolly party that it was with great reluctance we said our good nights and declared in unison, after all tomorrow is another day.

Brought to you by Jovi Woofley.

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A COLLECTION OF MID- CENTURY RECIPES

These delightful recipes are

mid-century recipes, from

'Charming Vintage Recipes'.

A collection of recipes has been presented to the Chronicle for publishing from some of the best cooks in the community.
They are tried and true recipes and it is hoped that they will be much enjoyed by the reader.

All the recipes are cooked from scratch

using basic everyday ingredients. They are quite delicious and simple to prepare.

The residents at Hollyhock Hill are very proud of their organically grown produce and favour a vegetarian diet. However a seafood dish has been included for those who enjoy fish.
Milk and eggs are considered gifts from our dear friends which are gladly given therefore gratefully received and heartily enjoyed.

Click on the recipe of your choice to enlarge.

BLESSINGS

to all the generous

CHURCH LADIES
who shared the

RECIPES

so dear to their hearts.

Brought to by Jovi Woofley

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STRANGE GOINGS ON part 4

STRANGE GOINGS ON part 4

Happy Outcome

Miss Ashanthi was delighted with Mrs Annie's proposal of opening a respectable boarding establishment for young chickens. Having never married and therefore being childless, she welcomed the idea of putting her natural mothering instincts into practice. Well there were so many things she could teach the young ones, she said, and cooking a decent curry would be first on the list. They could learn to make jams and preserves and how to set a good table, oh! yes indeed she thought it a wonderful idea.
She did admit to not being herself lately. In fact she even went as far as to say that she had felt a little lost, as if she just could not find her feet, as the saying goes.

Mrs Annie and Mr Peter had brought with them an extra special welcome gift. They felt that an extra special welcome was in order just to convey to Miss Ashanthi how everybody at Hollyhock Hill were so very happy to have her here as part of the community. As for the silly gossip that was circulating, Mrs Annie assured Miss Ashanthi that worrying about gossip was not worth the trouble. Some of the occupants of Catnip Downs were notorious for their silly stories and that most residents in Hollyhock Hill didn't take one bit of notice of them.

Mr Peter carefully positioned the handsome new birdbath, so that it would be visible from the kitchen window, thus giving Miss Ashanthi the pleasure of viewing the pretty little bluebirds frolicking in the sunshine while she was busy with her daily chores.
Miss Ashanthi's heart was deeply touched by this act of kindness, and remarked that she did indeed feel most welcomed. Mr and Mrs McKluckity arrived with a basket laden with delicious pastries and salad. Mumma Bunny and Pappa Bunny came with their four daughters and brought with them more delicious food. It was then decided that an impromptu picnic should be had out on the meadow, so Mr Dusty and I scooted around inviting one and all to come along and join in the fun.

It turned out to be a lovely afternoon, everyone enjoyed themselves.
No mention was made of Miss Pearl's silly story, it was felt that it was best to let bygones be bygones. Miss Pearl had apologised and Mr and Mrs Fluffybot had accepted her apology. Mrs Fluffybot was herself again and was even able to have a bit of a chuckle over the incident.
In our small community here at Hollyhock Hill everyone tries to get on with each other and not hold grudges. After all God says to love one another and that is the motto we all try to live by.
All in all a most pleasant afternoon was had by all.

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STRANGE GOINGS ON part 3

STRANGE GOINGS ON part 3

GOSSIP GOSSIP GOSSIP

It was market day and the news was abroad, everyone was talking about the strange goings on in Hollyhock Hill.

"I say, Mrs Lacecap, have you heard the news? the most alarming stories are being broadcast, there is talk of wild jungle creatures, here in our village." said Mrs Fluffybot

"Oh don't be silly, how could there possibly be wild jungle anything living here in Hollyhock Hill, may I point out, that this is not a jungle. You have been taking too many sips of that medicinal brandy of yours I think " replied her friend Mrs Lacecap.

" No but it is true I tell you, it's being talked about all over the village, Miss Millie and Miss Molly swear they saw a suspicious looking creature lurking over by the lake. Mr Barkalot attempted to confront the creature but it bolted away at lightening speed." insisted Mrs Fluffybot.

"Well I am not one for believing the stories that spring forth from Catnip Downs, that lot are away with the pixies most of the time. Such a wicked lot they are an' all." answered Mrs Lacecap. "Here comes Mrs McKluckity lets ask her if she knows anything about it."

"Good Morning to you Mrs McKluckity, such a lovely day is it not ?, What a gorgeous umbrella you have there. By the way, have you by any chance heard of any strange goings on in the neighborhood lately ?" asked Mrs Lacecap

"And a very good morning to you Mrs Lacecap and to you too Mrs Fluffybot, oh thank you, yes I do so love this umbrella, it was a gift from my dear husband you know. He is such a darling man, always concerning himself with even the smallest details of my wellbeing. I am just so, so very blessed." answered Mrs McKluckity.

" Yes, yes, how nice for you dear, but do tell have you heard the latest gossip about wild jungle creatures here in our midst ?, and sleeping in the tree tops I am told, such strange goings on I must say". said Mrs Lacecap

"As a matter of fact I have heard some mention of it, but really it is quite ridiculous, wild jungle creatures indeed. Utter Nonsense if you ask me" answered Mrs McKluckity
"Oh!,but do excuse me, there is Mumma Bunny over by the ice-cream cart, I must speak with her on a matter of great urgency. My last batch of fig jam has gone quite moldy and I am sure she will know what to do about it. Cheerio then, do have a lovely day".

" There, you see Mrs Fulffybot, it is all nonsense, if there was any truth in the rumours going around Mrs McKluckity would surely know about it, she is in the know, you know, if you know what I mean." declared Mrs Lacecap.

"Well, I would hazard a bet that Miss Molly and Miss Millie do know a thing or two about it. Lets see if we can find them." said Miss Fluffybot.

"Ummm! No, it was very nice chatting with you dear, but I must be on my way and finish my shopping, we are having guests tonight for supper and I really haven't a moment to spare. Good luck with your enquiries," chuckled Mrs Lacecap.

Mrs Fluffybot hurried off to Catnip Downs and found not only Miss Millie and Miss Molly sitting outside discussing the matter, but Miss Pearl was there also and what a lot they had to say about it too.

"Oh good morning Miss Molly, Miss Millie, Miss Pearl, so nice to see you all enjoying the bit of sunshine we are having today, I will be so glad when winter is over and done with. I am so looking forward to the warmer weather, spring surely cannot be far away now." said Mrs Fluffybot

"Good Morning Mrs Fluffybot the three purred in unison. " Yes it is a lovely morning. What brings you to Catnip Downs may I ask ?" enquired Miss Molly.

"Well now," said Mrs Fluffybot " I was wondering if you might know, just what is going on. I have heard such strange reports of wild creatures sleeping in the trees, that I am quite beside myself."

"Yes I agree, there is definitely, something going on as it has been my experience that there is no smoke without fire. Mr Barkalot isn't giving anything away, and even Mr Woofley refuses to discuss any of the reports that are circulating. You can be sure something is dreadfully amiss" said Miss Molly.

"Oh my goodness," wailed Mrs Fluffybot " does this mean we are all going to be mauled in our own beds, something has to be done about this creature, what is it exactly, does anyone know, has anyone seen it even ?"

"Well, as a matter of fact, I have caught a glimpse of the thing, last night it was," whispered Miss Pearl
Looking around, just to make sure no-one else was in earshot, Miss Pearl continued on;
"Now do not repeat this to anyone, not a soul mind, I do not want to cause anybody any undue alarm.
I was on my way home, you see, from afternoon tea at Miss Ginger's. It was getting quite dark but there was a full moon, so I could easily see my way, when I heard a rustle in the bushes.
Just near the lake it was, which is not the usual way I go home, but I was in a bit of a hurry. Well I quickly hid myself as best as I could, and there passed by me, the most sinister looking creature that ever I did see.
At least ten feet tall it was and hairy all over. It's eyes gleamed bright yellow in the moonlight and smoke came pouring out of it's nostrils.
I held my breath and watched it slink off into the woods and slowly climb up one of the big Cypress trees."

"Quick!!! get the smelling salts" called out Miss Millie " Mrs Fluffybot has fainted."

Mr Fluffybot, having been summoned by Miss Molly found his dear wife in a terrible state, she was blubbering on about fire eating monsters and that they were all going to be murdered in their beds, on and on she ranted.

Now Mr Fluffybot is a kindly gent, upright and of good character, and generally of a very easy going disposition.
He lovingly dotes on his sweet little wife.

Having realised what was going on Mr Fluffybot flew into a rage and gave Miss Pearl a good telling off,
" Just what do you think you're on about, terrifying my wife so, with your silly made up stories.
I am going to expose you for what you really are, a vicious, wicked, piece of gossiping bag of fur.
I shall report all of what you have said to the Chronicle and everybody will know what a nasty piece of work you really are." shouted the furious Mr Fluffybot.

The three felines, having great difficulty containing their mirth, stifling giggles behind their paws, watched as Mr Fluffybot escorted the still distraught, blubbering Mrs Fluffybot home.

" Oh me! Oh my!" sighed Miss Pearl," Who would have expected her to take on so, silly old thing, didn't she realise I was only joking."

"Well well," said Miss Molly " Seems you have gone a bit too far this time my dear, you had better send an especially lovely basket of flowers with a note of apology, begging forgiveness."

And so it was done.

To be continued......

Reported by Jovi Woofley

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STRANGE GOINGS ON part 2

Strange goings on part2-The Solution

Annie with Spade and I spent the day in Tree Fern Gully yesterday which is located on the other side of the blue hills surrounding Hollyhock Hill. The trip through the forest on the steam train was most pleasant. It was a beautiful sunshine day and the forest gleamed fresh and new after the overnight rain. The village boasts some of the most wonderful vintage boutiques and vintage shopping is the thing to do for most females and I must say they do it very well. These boutiques are a veritable Aladdin's cave of vintage trash and treasure and poking around in one of these establishments is thrilling indeed. One never knows what one will find.

Mrs Annie did very well for herself, a most magnificent ruby red candle holder was found along with an art-deco yellow glass decanter, the original purpose for the decanter was to hold sherry but Mrs Annie said she will will use it to hold extra virgin olive oil. Then she came across an old wobbly white basket, perfect for planting pansies in she said, and a lovely wooden serving spoon with a ceramic handle, not unlike those from her much loved Bavaria. The next treasure was a lovely little flower decorated baking dish with a sturdy lid. A pretty gift was chosen for the little princess Samara for her birthday, a beautiful pink flower fairy and a purple ceramic toadstool with teddy bears living in it. I came across a very handsome writing set, containing a bottle of black ink and a feather quill with a nib, now this will come in very handy when I am writing up my journals.

After a delicious lunch sitting in the sunshine at a charming little outdoor cafe we continued on to the Municipal Library, we wanted to find out more information on the habits of wild chickens. Something had to be done for Miss Ashanthi, this business of sleeping in the tree tops could not continue. Mrs Annie is very fond of all of her friends at Hollyhock Hill and if something is troubling any one of them she will go out of her way to help find a solution to their problems. In the library we found a book specialising on the bloodlines of the chicken. It is indeed true that all chickens originated from wild jungle fowl, so this behaviour of Miss Ashanthi is really quite natural.

"Even so" said Annie. " It is not wise in the long term for her to be roosting in the tree tops, it is much better to be safe than sorry ."

" Who knows what type of predator could come into the area. The only funerals services I want to attend in the future is that of someone dying a natural death of old age after having lived a happy life. It is sad enough that we creatures have to die at all without having to die in such a brutal manner". she explained.
I heartily agreed with her, I certainly did not want to have to report on anything like that again in the future. We took notes on the information in the book and made our way home. A stop off at Fraulein Issa's bakery was in order as Mr Peter had requested one of her yummy fresh baked pies and a strawberry cheesecake. Cheesecake is his favourite.

Over supper we passed on all the information we had gathered at the library over to Mr Peter for him to read. A little later Mr and Mrs McKluckity called in to see what progress had been made.
After much discussion about the situation we all agreed that Miss Ashanthi needed some company. It was felt that if she had like minded friends of the same age group sharing the cottage with her she may not feel the need to roost like her forbears. After all when living alone one can get a bit silly, loneliness can play tricks on the mind and have us do all manner of strange things. Why before the incident with the fox, No2 Grassy Lane always had four and sometimes even six chickens living there, it is a very roomy cottage. All of the other chickens had died of old age.

Mrs McKluckity made mention of a friend of a friend, who knew of quite a few young chickens, who were wanting to spread their wings and gain a bit of independence. This seemed like the perfect solution for them, living with an older, mother type figure just to keep a bit of an eye on them. Well, it would certainly keep Miss Ashanthi well occupied and thus leave her no time to feel sorry for herself.

So it was decided that Mrs Annie would have a chat with Miss Ashanthi and explain to her that there were a small number of young chickens desperately looking for a good home in the area, and ask her if she would like to share her accommodation, with two, or perhaps three of them. She would impress upon her the need for supervision of these young ones. That they were just starting out on their own in the world, and her being there, would be giving their parents much peace of mind, knowing that a kindly matron was watching over their darling daughters. She would also point out that this would gain her the admiration and respect of the whole community, why she would be seen as no less than a matron of a respectable boarding establishment for young chickens.

Everyone agreed that this was the most favourable solution to the problem and they fervently hope that Miss Ashanthi would agree to the proposed new living arrangements.

To be Continued.....

reported by Jovi Woofley

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STRANGE GOINGS ON

Security Guard Mr Dusty Barkalot
has reported a strange goings
on at No2 Grassy Lane.

Last evening while dusk was falling and Mr Dusty was dutifully patrolling the grounds of Chickie Village he saw that the front door of Miss Ashanthi's cottage was wide open. After much knockings and calling out he ventured inside to make sure all was well only to find the cottage totally empty. The cottage sits next to a fence which borders a lane way, which borders the next estate in which there happened to be a workman quite nearby stacking timber. Mr Dusty called out to the workman asking him if he had per chance seen a beautiful black chicken in the area. The workman replied that he had not, but would keep an eye open and let him know if a beautiful black chicken happened to pass by. Mr Dusty thanked him very much and continued the search. Darkness was rapidly enveloping our little village and being very concerned at this stage for Miss Ashanthi's safety, Mr Dusty ran to the cottage belonging to Annie with Spade and Peter with Toolbox and raised the alarm.

Peter with Toolbox assured Mr Dusty that she would be found and not to distress himself, he felt that Mr Dusty was afraid he would once again be in question regarding his security maintaining capabilities. With lanterns held high the three made a thorough search of the neighbourhood knocking on doors and asking everyone if she had been seen. Still no trace of her could be found, Mr Peter found this to be strange indeed as he had spent the whole day with the help of a workman renovating the Village. Extra security measures had been installed, new tall fencing had been erected and the wire mesh dug deep into the ground. It was felt that even though Fox and relatives had been banished to a far away island it would be a good idea to ensure that Chickie Village be made totally fox proof as one never really knew what the future might hold. The Gentleman at the big house had told Mr Peter that no expense is to be spared, as there were still a few, very frightened chickens.

Mrs Annie was getting very worried at this stage. "What on earth could have happened to her?" she asked Mr Peter.

"Well, since we have moved into our cottage here there have not been any dramas whatsoever", replied Mr Peter " there has got to be a logical explanation to this, she must be somewhere in the neighbourhood."
Mrs Annie decided to look into No2 again and check under the bed, you just never know, maybe those Blackbird boys have been up to mischief again. Nothing under the bed or in the wardrobe, or in any of the spare rooms. Annie sighed heavily and went to the window, opening it wide she took a deep breath of fresh air. A beam of light from the lantern she was holding picked out an irregular shape in amonst the branches,
"But what is this I see, there she is up in the tree tops fast asleep".gasped Annie in amazement
Annie immediately called out to the others " she is fast asleep in the treetops, on a branch in the Cypress ".
They both bolted up the stairs to see, and yes indeed there she was totally oblivious to all of the commotion she had stirred, fast asleep deep into her chickie land dreams.
"Well I have never seen anything like this before "declared Mr Peter " a chicken asleep in the treetops, does she fancy herself to be a bird I wonder?".
Mrs Annie could not help herself and retorted "Chickens are birds, Ha Ha Ha."
Mr Peter chuckled and replied "Well you know what I mean".
They decided to leave her be as no one could reach her anyway and they didn't think she would be in any danger being so high up in amongst the branches, well so they all hoped. Mr Dusty accompanied Mrs Annie and Mr Peter back to their cottage for a drink of hot milk with honey, and a good calm down, his poor nerves were a bit frazzled. Mrs Annie offered to make up a bed for Mr Dusty by the warm fire as they planned to be up nice and early in order to confront Miss Ashanthi and ask her to explain herself.

Over breakfast the next morning the three of them tried to figure out what to do about this situation. Mrs McKluckity popped her head in the door wanting to know what had happened. After hearing about all the goings on of the previous night she told them of Miss Ashanthi's strange behaviour at the luncheon at Mumma Bunny's home the other day." She was very irritable indeed," she said" and not at all her usual happy self, she didn't join in any of the conversations and was at times, even quite rude to Mumma Bunny, on our way home she complained that amongst all the food on the dining table there was not a curry to be seen. She had felt herself to be quite neglected. "

Little Primrose who boards with Mrs Annie, tut tutted and declared she was very pleased with herself having been born a cat and not a temperamental chicken.
Mrs Annie reprimanded Little Primrose with a "That will do Primrose, go and do something useful, as a matter of fact a basket full of parsley and carrots would very be useful indeed".
Mr Peter who had just this minute returned from a quick visit to the big house, to inform the Lady at the big house what had taken place, asked us all to sit down as he had something to tell us.
The Lady Maree who is holidaying at her home town in the land far far away and over the big waters is apparently not coming back. She has decided to spend the rest of her days there with her dear sisters. So Miss Ashanthi has been abandoned to us and Chickie Village is to be her forever home.
It was Mrs McKluckity's turn to tut tut." What a goings on indeed", she said " the poor dear is grieving for her home. She did tell me you know that back home the chickens love to roost in the tree tops. They have been intermarrying with wild fowl for many years, and tree top habitation is quite natural to them, they consider themselves to be free spirits and don't like confined spaces."
Mr Peter was not impressed with this free spirit business. "Free spirits indeed, she won't be much of a free spirit lying on her back with her neck broken." he said. " there has to be a solution to this problem".

To Be Continued

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AN INTRODUCTION

MEET MOLLY

She's a grey speckled pony that was abandoned by her owners when Hurricane Katrina hit southern Louisiana.

She spent weeks on her own before finally being rescued and take into a farm where abandoned animals were stockpiled. While there, she was attacked by a pit bull terrier and almost died. Her gnawed right front
leg became infected, and her vet went to LSU for help, but LSU was overwhelmed, and this pony was a welfare case. You know how that goes.

But after surgeon Rustin Moore met Molly, he changed his mind. He saw how the pony was careful to lie down on different sides so she didn't seem to get sores, and how she allowed people to handle her.

She protected her injured leg. She constantly shifted her weight and didn't overload her good leg.

She was a smart pony with a serious survival ethic. Moore agreed to remove her leg below the knee, and a temporary artificial limb was built. Molly walked out of the clinic and her story really begins there.

This was the right horse and the right owner, Moore insists. Molly happened to be a one-in-a-million patient. She's tough as nails, but sweet, and she was willing to cope with pain. She made it obvious she understood that she was in trouble. The other important factor, according to the owner who is dedicated to providing the daily care required over the lifetime of the horse.

Molly's story turns into a parable for life in Post-Katrina Louisiana. The little pony gained weight, and her mane finally felt a comb. A human prosthesis designer built her a leg. The prosthetic has given Molly a whole new life, Allison Barca DVM, Molly's regular vet, reports. And she asks for it. She will put her little limb out, and come to you and let you know that she wants you to put it on. Sometimes she wants you to take it off too. And

sometimes, Molly gets away from Barca. 'It can be pretty bad when you can't catch a three-legged horse,' she laughs.

Most important of all, Molly has a job now. Kay, the rescue farm owner, started taking Molly to shelters, hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. Anywhere she thought that people needed hope. Wherever Molly went, she showed people her pluck. She inspired people, and she had a good time doing it.

It's obvious to me that Molly had a bigger role to play in life, Moore said. She survived the hurricane, she survived a horrible injury, and now she is giving hope to others.'

Barca concluded, 'She's not back to normal, but she's going to be better. To me, she could be a symbol for New Orleans itself.'

This is Molly's most recent prosthesis. The bottom photo shows the ground surface that she stands on, which has a smiley face embossed in it. Wherever Molly goes, she leaves a smiley hoof print behind.

Please feel free to copy this if you would like to share it with all of the animal lovers that you know. God's creatures often reflect the character we aspire to.
God Bless,from Trish at Homemade Quilts by Granny .
END QUOTE

It was decided by the editor that this wonderful story of Molly's courage should be told to all Critters far and wide. We pray that Molly will make a full recovery and enjoy the rest of her life in her new forever home.
God Bless Molly and God Bless us All.

Brought to yoy by Jovi Woofley

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A DELIGHTFUL LUNCHEON

An invitation to a luncheon to be held at her gorgeous cottage, has been given by Mumma Bunny, to her very dear friends

Her reputation for serving a fine table is well known and an invitation to one of her do's is coveted by many. Her immaculate gardens are admired by passers by and her home boasts such elegant appointments that they are considered to be fit for a queen.
Madame Cheree, Mrs McKluckity, Miss Ashanthi and Mrs Blackbird, have graciously accepted the invitation, only too pleased to join dear friends for a spot of fine dining and lively conversation.
Miss Ashanthi being new to the area has not yet had the privilege of being entertained at one of Mumma Bunny's sumptuous affairs, and has been looking forward to the day with great anticipation.

The dear friends had all agreed amongst each other, that Madame Cheree is a most charming creature, and that despite her being of the feline species, did not display any of the usual catty behaviour, not like that other lot over at Catnip Downs. They have been labeled as nasty gossip mongers and reports have been circulating about their efforts to outshine everyone at the soon coming craft show.

"How silly they all are " remarked Mrs McKluckity

"Yes indeed " agreed Mumma Bunny " silly is not the word, why they are downright wicked if you ask me".

Miss Ashanthi started getting a little fidgety and her countenance assumed an expression of annoyance. She was most eager to see what was going to be offered for lunch, and as yet not even a cup of tea had been served and they had been seated a good ten minutes. Touring the house admiring Mumma Bunny's collection of vintage treasures had plum worn her out.

"I do feel that all this competitiveness is getting way out of control. After all it isn't even supposed to be a competition." continued Mrs Mckluckity

Mumma Bunny decided a small amusement was in order, a parlour game perhaps. Having recently acquired a new vintage treasure, she now challenged her friends to make a guess, as to what the new found vintage treasure could be.

"It wouldn't be a new china tea pot would it ?" sighed Miss Ashanthi

"Oh that's an easy one " declared Madame Cheree
"why it has to be another chandelier, but of course this one has to be made of silver and crystal so as to compliment your no less than sumptuous sleeping chamber".

"Well as a matter of fact I do have a new crystal chandelier in my chamber, but that was weeks ago, no no, that is not what I am referring to " replied Mumma Bunny

" I say did you hear that Annie with Spade has added knitted things to the list of entries for the craft show ?, so sweet of her to think of Mrs Blackbird " said Mrs McKluckity

"Well, actually, it was I who brought to Mrs Annie's attention that Mrs Blackbird was such a wonderful knitter, and that it would be a shame if knitted items were not on display. She just needs a bit of encouragement you know, and some time to herself, those boys of hers are incorrigible, replied Mumma Bunny. "And while we are on the subject Madame Cheree, what are you going to exhibit" ?.

" Exhibit ? Oh!, well, I haven't given it much thought really" replied Madame Cheree" I have been far to busy gardening, shopping and decorating, now we must try and guess what is new in this house".

" Hmm let me see, a new lace tablecloth, or is it a new vase ?, oh! I give up, do tell us dear, what irresistible treasure have you unearthed this time "? asked Mrs McKluckity

" I might be able to hazard a guess if perhaps a cup of tea was to wet my lips" wailed Miss Ashanthi

"Oh " exclaimed Mumma Bunny " but I am neglecting you, you poor dears, goodness me where are my manners"

A lovely vintage food trolley was promptly wheeled into the dining room.

On the top tier sat a silver tea pot, sugar and creamer with a luscious strawberry cake. The bottom tier had three more sumptuous cakes on it. On the dining table, atop an exquisite lace cloth, delicate rose patterned china had been set ready for the luncheon. In the center of the table sat an asparagus quiche, a selection of homemade cheeses and a fruit platter. Mumma Bunny does bake the most wonderful cakes and pastries. Scones, jam and a bowl of cream, compliments of Mrs McKluckity, also waited on the table along with Mrs Ashanthi's, bestest in the world tea, which was now being poured.

One of Mumma Bunny's beautiful daughters, Miss Jasmine declared that she would love to learn how to knit. Mrs Blackbird immediately perched herself on the edge of the chair next to her and offered to teach her the art.

"Knitting is so relaxing" declared Mrs Blackbird " and if one puts their mind to it, it is not difficult to learn and is indeed a most practical craft"

Thus encouraged Miss Jasmine began her adventure into the world of knitting with a skein of wool and a pair of knitting needles.

The conversations continued but no one had as yet been able to guess what the new vintage treasure was. Mumma Bunny's home was adorned with numerous, wonderful vintage pieces, so it was not an easy task.

During a lull in conversation, all was quiet as the dear friends tried their hardest to figure out what was new, when all of a sudden there was a loud clanking on the polished floor. Poor Miss Ashanthi jumped out of her seat. (she is of a somewhat nervous disposition) Peals of laughter broke out when it was realised that Miss Jasmine had dropped one of her knitting needles. Compliments followed however as Miss Jasmine had successfully knitted eight rows without any mistakes. Mrs Blackbird declared her a genius and everyone agreed.

Annie with Spade popped in and accepted a piece of the luscious strawberry cake and a cup of tea. When told of the guessing game she bust out laughing.

"Oh! That's easy to guess " she laughed "it is the silver cake stand with the glass cloche on top sitting over there on the sideboard "

They all looked at each other dumbfounded, there were about twenty cloches in the house, how did she know ?.

" Well, do tell, how do you know that is the new one ?" asked Mrs McKluckity

" Simple really" replied Mrs Annie " all the other cake stands are made of glass, this one is a silver one and I have not seen it before".

" Well now, " said Mrs Blackbird " Mumma Bunny did make mention the other week that she found sparkling silver ware most attractive".

Fresh tea was made and the cakes on the lower tier of the food trolley were sliced and served. D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S.

Miss Jasmine being full of encouragement, decided to knit herself a scarf, yes indeed, and a trip to the wool store was now being planned for supplies in fashionable colors.

Mumma Bunny laughed and congratulated Mrs Annie on her success at guessing what the new found treasure was. The friends all applauded Mrs Annie and declared that she certainly must have a keen eye for detail. Admiration of the new treasure was dutifully given and
all in all a jolly afternoon was had by everyone.
The friends slowly departed with compliments to the hostess amid kisses on cheeks and thank yous for a fine afternoon's entertainment.

The details of this luncheon were passed on to me by a,
wishing to remain anonymous, fine feathered friend.

Brought to you by Jovi Woofley

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A TALE OF OLDE

The Loveliest Rose in the World

by Hans Christian Andersen (1852)

HERE lived once a great queen, in whose garden were found at all seasons the most splendid flowers, and from every land in the world. She specially loved roses, and therefore she possessed the most beautiful varieties of this flower, from the wild hedge-rose, with its apple-scented leaves, to the splendid Provence rose. They grew near the shelter of the walls, wound themselves round columns and window-frames, crept along passages and over the ceilings of the halls. They were of every fragrance and color.

But care and sorrow dwelt within these halls; the queen lay upon a sick bed, and the doctors declared that she must die. “There is still one thing that could save her,” said one of the wisest among them. “Bring her the loveliest rose in the world; one which exhibits the purest and brightest love, and if it is brought to her before her eyes close, she will not die.”

Then from all parts came those who brought roses that bloomed in every garden, but they were not the right sort. The flower must be one from the garden of love; but which of the roses there showed forth the highest and purest love? The poets sang of this rose, the loveliest in the world, and each named one which he considered worthy of that title; and intelligence of what was required was sent far and wide to every heart that beat with love; to every class, age, and condition.

“No one has yet named the flower,” said the wise man. “No one has pointed out the spot where it blooms in all its splendor. It is not a rose from the coffin of Romeo and Juliet, or from the grave of Walburg, though these roses will live in everlasting song. It is not one of the roses which sprouted forth from the blood-stained fame of Winkelreid. The blood which flows from the breast of a hero who dies for his country is sacred, and his memory is sweet, and no rose can be redder than the blood which flows from his veins. Neither is it the magic flower of Science, to obtain which wondrous flower a man devotes many an hour of his fresh young life in sleepless nights, in a lonely chamber.”

“I know where it blooms,” said a happy mother, who came with her lovely child to the bedside of the queen. “I know where the loveliest rose in the world is. It is seen on the blooming cheeks of my sweet child, when it expresses the pure and holy love of infancy; when refreshed by sleep it opens its eyes, and smiles upon me with childlike affection.”

“This is a lovely rose,” said the wise man; “but there is one still more lovely.”

“Yes, one far more lovely,” said one of the women. “I have seen it, and a loftier and purer rose does not bloom. But it was white, like the leaves of a blush-rose. I saw it on the cheeks of the queen. She had taken off her golden crown, and through the long, dreary night, she carried her sick child in her arms. She wept over it, kissed it, and prayed for it as only a mother can pray in that hour of her anguish.”

“Holy and wonderful in its might is the white rose of grief, but it is not the one we seek.”

“No; the loveliest rose in the world I saw at the Lord’s table,” said the good old bishop. “I saw it shine as if an angel’s face had appeared. A young maiden knelt at the altar, and renewed the vows made at her baptism; and there were white roses and red roses on the blushing cheeks of that young girl. She looked up to heaven with all the purity and love of her young spirit, in all the expression of the highest and purest love.”

“May she be blessed!” said the wise man: “but no one has yet named the loveliest rose in the world.”

Then there came into the room a child—the queen’s little son. Tears stood in his eyes, and glistened on his cheeks; he carried a great book and the binding was of velvet, with silver clasps. “Mother,” cried the little boy; “only hear what I have read.” And the child seated himself by the bedside, and read from the book of Him who suffered death on the cross to save all men, even who are yet unborn. He read, “Greater love hath no man than this,” and as he read a roseate hue spread over the cheeks of the queen, and her eyes became so enlightened and clear, that she saw from the leaves of the book a lovely rose spring forth, a type of Him who shed His blood on the cross.

“I see it,” she said. “He who beholds this, the loveliest rose on earth, shall never die.”

The End

“I am the rose of Sharon,
and the lily of the valleys.” (Solomon 2:1)

Brought to you by Jovi Woofley

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About us

WELCOME TO THE SILLINESS AT HOLLYHOCK HILL

The stories on this blog are based on real events, and on real people and animals. Miss Ashanthi lives in my backyard and is beautiful indeed. Her previous carers are from Sri Lanka but due to illness could no longer look after her. She still roosts in the treetops and I have to get up on a ladder and get her down to put her to bed in the safety of the henhouse every night. My other chickens were sadly killed by Mr Fox and we did have a possum in the hen house.

Mumma Bunny is my best friend and has indeed four beautiful daughters. Mrs Hessie Mouse is another dear friend and has two cats called Miss Molly and Miss Millie. Miss Issa is our granddaughter and does make lovely cupcakes. Madame Cheree is another special friend and has two young children. Mr Dusty is my sweet fluffy friend and Mr Jovie belongs to Mumma Bunny.

I decided to tell the stories in a whimsical way for a bit of fun. The world has become far too dark and a bit of light hearted fun is good for the soul. I am Annie with Spade and my dear husband is Peter with Toolbox.

We hope the tales we tell do at least make someone smile. Have a lovely day.