tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64277470780138650102024-03-13T02:50:47.437+01:00A tale told by a mouse..The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.comBlogger13125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-73389898634657148992015-03-31T14:36:00.000+02:002015-03-31T14:36:15.117+02:00THERE ARE PLACES ON THIS EARTH..<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
There are places on this earth where it's peaceful..where trees have been slumbering for ages..and forests are old as time. I know such a place...and if you let me I will take you there..in a story, which I'm about to tell you now.<br />
I will choose my words carefully, so you can listen, and memorize, this to tribute the creatures who will surely come alive in this saga, and, like they told me secretly, will never leave you..They will be there to give you strength...courage..hope..and stay with you, by your side and in your heart for ever and ever....or, as long as you need them to .<br />
They promised to also make you smile..because a smile is one of the most beautiful things human eyes can behold....it's like a sunrise!<br />
And with a sunrise this adventure begins..<br />
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What color would you like the sunrise to be...picture it..in your mind's eye.!.<br />
Then ,let the light slowly caress the treetops...to wake up the birds.<br />
The birds are always first to rise..Did you know it's the older birds that rise sooner than the young..Yes, the young may be bold and sitting in the top of the highest tree, but it's always the wise and elderly who sing the sunrise song...I think it's because they know that there is no time to waste.. life is short!<br />
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Through a veil of mist the sun now reaches the hedgerows..dewdrops are catching rays of light and create rainbow mirrors..this to please the little creatures living there,in the undergrowth.<br />
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Slowly the light is crawling through the grass...entering rabbit holes and revealing fluffy bunny ears...<br />
One very bright and strong ray of sunlight creeps into a jungle of ferns...then, stays there for a second, like it's wondering to get out..or maybe still continue in this wilderness..But like the saying goes - it has to be dark to see the light- motivates this little ray to carry on...And behold....his light went shining straight through the ferns...only to show that behind this green cascade of leaves there was an entrance of yet another dark matter..<br />
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Now, the light, very curious and determent to explore, made his way into the blackness..searched, found, and touched something..and this THING responded.....with a sneeze...!<br />
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The morning sunrise had just landed in a bears den, and tickled a bears nose...<br />
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After the sneeze...which created a breeze in the leaves....there was silence in the den...<br />
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The bear then growled, with a gloomy dark brown voice...<br />
-Go away....!<br />
-Go away I say..I command you, LIGHT, leave my den..NOW...!<br />
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But as we all know..the early morning light will not be chased easily...it's playful...filled with expectation.<br />
It calls you..beckons you...says,open your eyes you earthling..this is the day..this is the day that will never return..!<br />
Not ONE but many rays of light now filled the bears den...and all together they decided to have a ball !<br />
In the dusty den millions of little light particles danced and whirled..and when the bear carefully opened ONE eye..he was almost blinded by all of the sparkles and glitter..<br />
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The first word which then sprung to his mind was...<br />
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........"SPRING"......<br />
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And after months and months of sleep....the bear jumped up, grinned, clapped his paws and made his fur shake..He was awake...<br />
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The bear was back...<br />
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*****<br />
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ITS a...<br />
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Mountains can be high...rivers wide...and a road may be winding and long ...The bear knew..<br />
Softly the sun filters its early morning light through fresh green leaves.<br />
Spring is promising..and the bear starts his journey..<br />
At first..he is just standing there..letting the sun warm his old bones..The road ahead would be difficult.. The bear knew...<br />
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Days became nights, and nights became days again..<br />
The bear sometimes rested under a sheltering starry sky.. Every new day the sun accompanied him..getting stronger..days grew longer..and the bear was now feeling younger..than he was..<br />
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There he stood...on a hilltop covered with pine trees....catching a gust of wind in his nose..smelling a familiar scent..of straw..wildflowers..shadow of Oak ..<br />
- Summer has arrived..whispered the bear.<br />
The caresses of the breeze tickled his fur, and the bear sighed.. The Bear knew..he was almost there..<br />
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Meanwhile...on a different Hilltop, a mouse was wandering.. A mouse wearing a straw hat..A Mouse on a summer stroll..<br />
She had been climbing the Hilltop and now paused for a while under the big old oak tree, midst the wildflowers, to catch her breath..<br />
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The sun stood high..there was a soft breeze..<br />
-Aah, sighed the mousse..The summer wind..!<br />
The wind took with him the smell of shade from Pine trees.....and..what was that.. something in the air was....was very familiar..<br />
-I know that smell..said Miss Moussie..and of course she knew..she always knows everything.<br />
.-Its...its...and there Miss Moussie stopped..threw her straw hat in the air and jumped for joy before she called out...<br />
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........IT's A BEAR...<br />
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LOUDER THEN A DOOR...<br />
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In a garden - not so very far from where Miss Moussie now is tumbling down the hill like a fluffy tumbleweed, because she is in such a hurry to go tell what she had just discovered -someone is sitting in a deckchair…drinking iced tea…<br />
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-It hasn't been this warm since years... said the Dutchess to herself whilst waving fiercely with a fan…its almost too hot to handle... !<br />
She had been trying to write... but really it was too hot to concentrate... then she tried to read... but the words were to slow to enter her mind... they lingered in the heat and evaporated...<br />
Then she planned to take a little nap… a siesta in the garden under the old oak tree... but her thoughts wandered of all over the place and now she just was sitting there... watching the grass grow...<br />
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Time took her time to pass… like it was stuck… sticky minutes gliding like hot syrup dripping from a spoon...<br />
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Whilst casting her eyes over the lawn… over the pink roses, the Pond in the distance... the garden path towards Hilltop Hall... the Dutchess smiled... How much she loved that old, with green ivy overgrown house... sometimes she felt like she could hug it ... wasn't that silly... Sure, there were worries ... the cracks in the old walls…lots of squeaky doors, an ancient plumbing system..the pipes sometimes made a noise like a complete wind orchestra playing a concerto, and maybe, just maybe, she needed to redecorate . There still was the wallpaper her grandmother once plastered to the bedroom walls…showing birds and forget-me-not’s. And the fireplace in the kitchen was the same one like one-hundred years ago...<br />
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Suddenly, a noise coming from the entrance of the garden, at the garden gate, interrupted our dear Dutchess in her reminiscing’s... A mouse came running... waving a yellow straw hat... squeaking at the top of her longs, louder than any old door ever could squeak in the whole house….<br />
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-He’s coming home..he's coming home...!<br />
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WAITING..<br />
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The hours to come would later proof to be more than magical..they would be epic…!</div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"> This, our Dutchess and Miss Moussie didn't know yet…but, now, dear reader and friend, YOU know..so hold on to this book and read on..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">After Miss Moussie did catch her breath she was able to tell The Dutchess what she had just found on the Hilltop..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-A scent you say..really, did I understand you correctly..you found something smelly..said the Dutchess surprised..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">- Yes..Squeaked Miss Moussie exited…LIKE BEAR..!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">…The summer breeze hushed.. the birds paused in their flight and song, and with the butterflies they fluttered by, in slow motion..curious…listening.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">The word BEAR changed the entire atmosphere in the garden ..it became very quiet..like…maybe like a quiet before a storm..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-Is he..could it..can it be….really HIM, whispered the Dutchess ?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-I know its him, squeaked Miss Moussie softly…there is no one that smelly. I mean…well, (and there she giggled).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-Then, my dear Miss M, we can expect him any minute now..!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-I believe we can dearest Dutchess..I believe we can…O my goodness…so many things to do so little time..I must assemble a welcome home comity..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">The stillness in the garden became now noticeable..even for the Dutchess and Miss Moussie in their enthusiasm … Clouds gathered.. the hot summer day changed into a summer evening that wrapt itself around the Hilltop inhabitants like a moist cloak…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-This heat is too heavy for a delicate creature like myself..squeaked Miss Moussie..I just can’t think straight ..there’s a fog rising..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-In your mind darling..?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-No, look…over the Pond and beyond……it looks very suspicious. One can never trust a fog !<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-Heavens,Yes..it looks kind of greenish! We better go inside dear…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"> A storm is rising..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">And so they did…a Dutchess and a Mousse. Together waiting for what was coming next…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">At the Pond a strange fog waved over the white water lilies ..the surface of the water rippled. A green creature appeared. A frog in the fog…It was Gustave coming to check on the weather. But after a quick glance he dived back into the water…heading for the deep…to be safe...</span></div>
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WHO WAS WHERE..AND WHERE WAS WHAT..?<br />
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…On the Hilltop, at Hilltop Hall, in the Hilltop Hall living room, a Mouse and a Dutchess sit together, side by side, in a window nook viewing the misty garden. They look worried!</div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-I do hope all our friends have found shelter….. twittered Miss Moussie, and I better stay with you dearest, in case something happens, I mean..you being all alone in this big old Hilltop mansion..!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-Please do...answered the Dutchess …but I must say I do like a good thunderstorm once in a while. It clears the air..…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-Yes…well…I don’t know twittered Miss Moussie …Maybe..some tea dear..to calm our nerves..?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-That’s a wonderful idea. You stay put my sweet mouse…I will be back in jiffy..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">The Dutchess left the living room, leaving Miss Moussie staring into the fog…it turned from green into a mysterious purple haze.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"> The passage from the living room towards the kitchen was dark. It was a hallway filled with old ornaments, and the walls were decorated with paintings from the Dutchess’s ancestors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">There was one with a Pirate…and one picturing a lady in a wintry forest,in depth of field with next to her an owl sitting on a fence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Quickly our Dutchess moved through the corridor..…the darkness didn't bother her…she knew every shadow and every sound..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">But..did she really…?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Because, then, suddenly, she heard something ..softer then a whisper..more like someone breathing.. followed by a very clear tinkling sound. Like a bell or icicle’s moving in the wind..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Abruptly the Dutchess stopped ….she listened…who, or what was it that made this corridor into its hiding place....!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-Anybody there…she said in a calm tone of voice…and she repeated…ANYBODY ..answer me please…!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">No answer was heard..…only the ticking of the clock…and THEN…the first LOUD thunder accompanied by the BIGGEST lightning flash..immediately followed by the most frightful twitters uttered by Miss Moussie ……-There he is ..I saw him…there he is..!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Now, DEAR READER AND FRIEND…I’m confused…who was where, and where was what… Anyhow…"THEY"are HERE…<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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ILLUMINATED..<br />
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<span lang="EN-GB">You could say our Dutchess, at that moment of fright, was almost quicker than lighting to run back into the living room and come to Miss Moussie’s rescue..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span><span lang="EN-GB">-Dearest…she shouted..WHAT…WHERE…WHO…!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-O NOOO…twittered Miss Moussie disappointed, whilst standing with her little nose pressed to the window…now he is gone…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-HE…in our “Bear” you mean…?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-YES..of course..are you expecting anybody else maybe…squeaked our mouse.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">With her little paws to the glass she tried to see into the dark garden…it had started to rain..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-There's nobody else around. I am sure what you saw was our friend..answered the Dutchess…looking over her shoulder back into the Hallway..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Again the lighting lit up the room..and the thunder roared…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Again Miss Moussie uttered the most squeaky sound ever to be heard in Hilltop history..but it was a happy sound…it sounded like surprise and home coming..because before her eyes..illuminated by lightning the friendly furry face of a friend appeared..MOZES..!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-68555565314115128922012-01-04T12:30:00.015+01:002015-03-22T15:25:14.028+01:00The Snow patrol...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hilltop Hall....on a warm day in...November...<br />
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-I'm soooo confused..twittered Miss Moussie ....I'm ever so confused....<br />
-What's the matter dear...asked the Dutchess in response....Is there something I can help you with...?<br />
-Don't think so...twittered Miss Moussie...you can't change the weather....<br />
-Change the weather dearest...but WHY.....its the most glorious November we had in ages..<br />
-Yes yes..I know..and I find this to be very suspicious..its not how its supposed to be...<br />
-O...you want it to be cold, grimm..and rainy...windy and wet....<br />
-Yes..so we can snuggle up in the house...It may sound strange but I've had enough of summer..I'm kind of tired..and there Miss Moussie sat herself down on a baguette..next to the french cheese and a pot of marmalade. ..fumbling with the spoon where she had just stirred her tea with...<br />
-Your tea is getting cold dear......four lumps of sugar...as you like it..<br />
-I'm not in the mood for tea..twittered Miss Moussie..<br />
-Come on ....said the Dutchess a bit worried...this is not like you at all....cheer up dear..<br />
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At that moment in time a little person wearing big spectacles entered the kitchen...It was Mr Mole..<br />
-Hello there Mr C...smiled the Dutchess..so good to see you...would you like to join us for a cup of tea....<br />
-That would be lovely...answered Mr Mole...but first..let me tell you something..There's news...and he waved with a newspaper..I just read it....<br />
-O,then do tell us..said the Dutchess...and I'm sure Miss Moussie would like to hear it too...<br />
Miss Moussie didn't move... she didn't even look up...and she didn't even say hello to Mr C...<br />
Goodness...she really is very sad today..<br />
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-LLLListen,stuttered Mr Mole..like he always does when he is exited...LLListen...We are going to have the WINTER of ALL WWWinters....there is a winter traveling to our Hilltop like we have NEVER experienced before...With mountains of snow and Its going to be sooo cold...so cold like on the north pole...What do you think about THAT...<br />
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-REALLY..twittered Miss Moussie ...REALLY...how marvelous!<br />
O dear...so many things to do in so little time....we have to be prepared...now all the little birdies will need mittens.....O dear..<br />
Miss Moussie dropped her spoon and before you could say cheerio...she was gone....disappearing under the doormat....through the crack in the wall....off to her birds nest...Leaving Mt C and our Dutchess sitting there in wonder what to expect next...<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnJ7qshyphenhyphenZ9kQNFM4H3pdgG03oyux8Ecq3JII2xgHMdhRjBY0yIK7s5vZkxvBtBCmTDPd3-8WJgBXwDyUlBYN6dPwv7ZtO966xnEcPbAmbXL5rWo5iOjPQn4PwmoGBaMN8JkYpuQLOC0g/s1600/DSC00242.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnJ7qshyphenhyphenZ9kQNFM4H3pdgG03oyux8Ecq3JII2xgHMdhRjBY0yIK7s5vZkxvBtBCmTDPd3-8WJgBXwDyUlBYN6dPwv7ZtO966xnEcPbAmbXL5rWo5iOjPQn4PwmoGBaMN8JkYpuQLOC0g/s400/DSC00242.JPG" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671898662533950514" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<br />
-Well...said the Dutchess...well..dear C...must we believe everything we read in the newspaper...I always say...seeing is believing...!<br />
<br />
-Aah..but there is much more between heaven and earth then what the eye or the mind can behold...answered C...but I do agree that one mustn't believe all what is written...especially weather reports..<br />
<br />
Then..Mr Mole and our Dutchess remained silent...both contemplating over what was just shared..<br />
<br />
The only sound heard in the kitchen was the ticking of the cuckoo clock..and the soft crackle of the fire in the hearth..<br />
<br />
Outside..in the garden..a little mouse was running...in her hands a big sheet of paper....<br />
Must dash..she twittered out of breath..must hurry...must let everybody know about my Very Important and Practical too do list....!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKn7-MpEbV4n2KdO6RHb6MH2CiveRxu_K3FUD_x-qwzQ7VUtUvSAxaLjfm-uEtl4l_IY2eCwes4bmIjkbxIVj-KjSlqULDPdoVV-Rjk5sHDdkEcC6adG9Q_4DXHriOlK5AjYnNU_L0OAU/s1600/DSC00249.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKn7-MpEbV4n2KdO6RHb6MH2CiveRxu_K3FUD_x-qwzQ7VUtUvSAxaLjfm-uEtl4l_IY2eCwes4bmIjkbxIVj-KjSlqULDPdoVV-Rjk5sHDdkEcC6adG9Q_4DXHriOlK5AjYnNU_L0OAU/s400/DSC00249.JPG" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677205288890930962" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<br />
A few days later....<br />
<br />
Hilltop Hall....about seven o'clock in the evening...<br />
<br />
-Brrr..shivered the Dutchess whilst climbing up the stairs to the attic...how cold it is today...I;m going to get some more blankets for my bed...<br />
-Strange..there is a light burning at the attic...could there be someone up there....?<br />
Very softly the Dutchess lifted the hatch at the top of the stairs and took a curious peek... and what did she see...<br />
<br />
In the middle of the attic..on the floor..sat our dear Miss Moussie...surrounded by..blankets ..candles..winter woollies..a sled..Christmas lights..matches..pillows and quilts..<br />
<br />
The Dutchess heard her squeak...<br />
-Survival kit...check..<br />
-Spy kit..check...<br />
-First aid kit..check....Then the little moussie lifted her head ...-O,...Dutchess..its you my dearest...don't mind me, I'm just checking my list...<br />
<br />
-Dear dear Miss Moussie..please do come down and join me for a cup of tea..said the Dutchess with a smile.....you must be ever so tired...I'm sure this list can wait till tomorrow....the weather forecast was fine ..<br />
<br />
-Then...didn;t you feel the cold North wind blow today..twittered Miss Moussie...I did...and I just know there's no time to lose...I'm telling you something is about to happen...<br />
-Shall we then continue tomorrow..I;ll help...and we will ask Gustave too...<br />
-Yes..we MUST ask Gustave because I need him for the food storage...we...we...and there Miss Moussie stopped squeaking..<br />
-What dearest....we ..what...whispered the Dutchess..<br />
-O.M.Goodness..twittered Miss Moussie...this can not be happening..its to soon...I'm not ready yet...and in a flash she ran down the stairs and disappeared...<br />
<br />
The Dutchess followed as fast as she could....and a few moment later....a moussie and a Dutchess entered a winter wonderland...Lets follow them<br />
<br />
O My Goodness...twittered Miss Moussie..Its snowing..its a a blizzard,and when this snowfall continuous we will be completely snowbound..what did I tell you..We must warn our friends before its to late..<br />
.O my goodness.....Help...Anybody...Gustave...Elvira...Sir Horatio....Please, if you can hear me out there...Leave your nests...Please do come to Hilltop Hall..before its to late.....Hello there ...can anybody hear me...<br />
<br />
There was no answer...just the sound of the blazing blizzard ..<br />
<br />
Somewhere..on the Hilltop...Elvira popped out of her hiding place...O yes..she could hear our dear Miss Moussie twittering....<br />
<br />
-But did she dare to go running through the snow towards Hilltop Hall...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
O my goodness..sweet Elvira..trapped in the snow...luckily for her she carried a bag full of Christmas cookies..but how long could she possible stay out there...and its going to be dark soon..<br />
<br />
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<br />
Finally it stopped snowing...<br />
<br />
Miss Moussie was standing in the doorway..gazing at the sky..<br />
-There is still more snow to come..she whispered to herself..I must do something..<br />
<br />
Very high up...in the top of the highest tree standing on the Hilltop..a worried owl named Who hooted..<br />
<br />
-Dear Who..twittered Miss Moussie...can you see if anyone's coming..can you hear if anyone's calling out for help...<br />
<br />
Who hooted again...a very desperate hoot...the lonely sound got lost in the white dwelling...there was no answer...<br />
<br />
-That does it...squeaked Miss Moussie...whilst a tear rolled down her cheek and froze instantly while dangling on her nose...I must go on a search..Listen my dear friends out there in the white wilderness...never fear..Miss Moussie is here..I'm on my way to rescue you....Make way for The Snow Patrol....<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
It was a bleak midwinter night...<br />
<br />
<br />
Miss Moussie had left the Hilltop Hall in a hurry..She forgot all about her survival list...<br />
<br />
There she goes ...without her spy kit..without a first aid kit..the only thing she is taking with her is a little lantern..<br />
<br />
<br />
Mr Mole and the Dutchess saw her go...until she was just a little beam of light in the distance..slowly disappearing in a white snowy wonderland...<br />
<br />
<br />
-Ssshe is so very brave...stammered Mr Mole...<br />
<br />
-Yes she is...answered the Dutchess..and we must be very brave too..I;m sure all will be OK soon..so we must go and do what we promised to do...!<br />
<br />
-We must ..said Mr Mole..lets do it...<br />
<br />
<br />
And then they started to set up the tree..and making a shepherd's pie...so ..when the snow patrol would come home...they could celebrate Christmas..<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
How cold this night was...the snow glistened by the light of stars..the moon was white like ice..<br />
<br />
A little mouse struggled her way through the shimmering landscape..shivering in her red velvet coat.<br />
<br />
In her little hands she firmly held a lantern...so she could shine a pale beam of light on the path she was trying to follow.<br />
<br />
-O my goodness.she twittered...how much further will I have to go..there's still no sign of life in this wilderness..I'm ever so worried..<br />
<br />
In her mind she already pictured her friends buried under a big pile of snow...<br />
Then...suddenly...a gust of wind..coming straight from the North Pole....blew out the the candle in Miss Moussie's lantern..and almost froze our little brave moussie into an icy statue..<br />
<br />
-O dear....now what...she squeaked in fear...I find things in the darkness to be very suspicious and not to be trusted...!!<br />
<br />
For a moment she stood there...staring at the sky....<br />
<br />
-The stars ..she whispered ...the stars....follow the stars....l can do this...stars I can trust..they guided people through dark times for centuries..now think little mouse...where's the big bear.....<br />
<br />
The night was blue as ink.....with like a million golden stars...it looked like a picture out of a fairytale book...<br />
<br />
-O WOW...twittered Miss Moussie...I thought stars where bright and twinkling..but there I see one that's RED....that's impossible...and ..and its moving...?<br />
<br />
O my goodness....its falling.....and its coming down fast...its heading towards ME....quick I have to hide....<br />
<br />
As fast as she could she started digging a hole in the snow.....trying to disappear...but being a mouse wearing red velvet...this wasn't easy to do....<br />
<br />
Miss Moussie curled up...and closed her eyes...-.This it it, she twittered....I'm going to be crushed by a star...<br />
<br />
-Something landed....very light ..very softly..next to Miss Moussie..in a whirl of fluffy snow...<br />
<br />
All was silent.....Miss Moussie didn't dare to move ...<br />
<br />
-Then a little voice spoke...sounding like slay bells .....and it said..-.Please ! <br />
<br />
Please, help me little red ball hiding in the snow..please help me..I'm lost...!<br />
<br />
Miss Moussie opened her eyes.... peeked her nose out of the snow..and stared in a bright red light....and at the moment her eyes adjusted, she could see that a reindeer was attached to it...<br />
<br />
In one big leap Miss Moussie leaped out of the snow.....-Your HIM....she squeaked...Your IT..she twittered....how marvelous, I always wanted to meet you ever since I was a little mouse..You're Rudolph.....But, my dear Rudolph ...forgive me for asking..but shouldn't you be helping Santa tonight...<br />
<br />
Then, Rudolf told Miss Moussie that.-.before going on his journey with Santa to bring presents all over the world-.. he wanted to visit the Hilltop....because there...-.so he read in a French newspaper-..lived a very famous frog named Gustave who could bake imaginary cookies..and he..Rudolph....was a big cookie fan....<br />
<br />
Miss Moussie was amazed.....she then told Rudolph hér story....about Gustave, Elvira,..and Sir H. Hog...being lost in the snow..<br />
<br />
Rudolph understood the seriousness of the situation immediately..no Gustave no cookies....and he, being a creature with an extremely sensitive nose...he should be able to find our friends in no time at all...<br />
<br />
-Hooray..squeaked Miss Moussie...then darling Rudolph...what are we waiting for........I always wanted to fly a reindeer....My friends will not believe their eyes when we pick them up...Lets GOOOOO...<br />
<br />
And there they went....Miss Moussie and Rudolph...flying over the Hilltop grounds...<br />
<br />
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The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-682126785135672562011-05-24T11:24:00.013+02:002011-05-24T11:46:55.147+02:00The Dangerous Drumble...There is nothing Miss Moussie likes best then searching the Hilltop grounds with her spy kit..<br />A lovely orange sun accompanies her and is doing his best to keep her warm..<br />There is a fierce March wind blowing today...<br />So far Miss Moussie didn't find anything out of the unusual....all was well on the Hilltop.<br />Yes,there were some crocuses to focus on...but she already spotted them a few days ago..<br />-Maybe I can go on a Tulip hunt..Miss Moussie twittered to herself...and there she went..in the direction of the Hilltop meadow..<br /> <br />Whilst walking towards the meadow Miss Moussie needs to cross the Dangerous Drumble...!<br />The Dangerous Drumble is the stream running through the Hilltop forest....in Springtime the water runs wild..and you better not fall in...because nobody knows where this drumble ends...or where it begins..so one could get seriously lost...and wet...!<br />Now we all know Miss Moussie isn't the best of swimmers on the Hilltop..Lets hope she will be very careful.... <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVp5YP5-T0PEpmjC62RzHXEm1_ir9Duu27iHW0biI3vvnyOW6BiTmcAWCiBOezsTT1_1NOlODIw8GYjuAFjUmql7yt9LxhmRtHrYMC6rX2S91KA7qxK2eliROF-N_6IJzKEzMicZUy52c/s1600/stream5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVp5YP5-T0PEpmjC62RzHXEm1_ir9Duu27iHW0biI3vvnyOW6BiTmcAWCiBOezsTT1_1NOlODIw8GYjuAFjUmql7yt9LxhmRtHrYMC6rX2S91KA7qxK2eliROF-N_6IJzKEzMicZUy52c/s320/stream5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580153820623270002" /></a><br /><br />-There it is...squeaked Miss Moussie...the Drumble....my goodness..it looks wild..how very exiting...better find the bridge....its much to deep to wade through..<br />Soon the bridge was found.....a big log of oak....<br />-Hm...twittered Miss Moussie...well..I always think old logs are suspicious..but this one looks very stable....I suppose I can cross the Drumble safe and sound...<br />There she went...very courageous..and very swift..<br />When she reached solid ground again she uttered a little squeak out of relieve..PHEW...that was scary...<br />After a few minutes Miss Moussie saw the meadow...she started running...her spy kit was humping and bumping on her back...How lovely it would be when SHE could be the one to find the first spring Tulip...<br />The forest opened...Miss Moussie could see a a green horizon..the trees at the edge of the forest waved there bare branches and bowed in the wind..like they were saying hello...hello dear Moussie...<br /><br />For a while Miss Moussie just stood there..at he edge of the forest..then she opened her spy kit....<br />With her nose almost on the ground Miss Moussie stepped into the green grass....spying through her magnifying glass!<br />There she went...<br />-Grass..grass...green grass..she mumbled....dirt...more dirt...a Daisy....dirt..green dirt..and then she stopped in her tracks...again mumbling..what did I just say......A DAISY....my goodness...A DAISY..she found the first daisy..this was sooooooo much better then a Tulip...<br />-She turned around..did her eyes play tricks on her...no....there is was..a beautiful fragile fairy white Daisy!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpAq1KGfMdd2XNybJuC0_aqXcIZjTPIXQM5SUR1v3nl6dE3XYSn14ihd3FjW4aqWcvGPDTd0HD-7jlp_g8dV-uBrqAOITGYRX0q-NnQxYndT6C8DxJADx0x2gE7VSKSK4SJn9vPoFUXMY/s1600/imagesCA8XYMYN.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 259px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpAq1KGfMdd2XNybJuC0_aqXcIZjTPIXQM5SUR1v3nl6dE3XYSn14ihd3FjW4aqWcvGPDTd0HD-7jlp_g8dV-uBrqAOITGYRX0q-NnQxYndT6C8DxJADx0x2gE7VSKSK4SJn9vPoFUXMY/s320/imagesCA8XYMYN.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580152811054455250" /></a><br /><br />-This is a very important catch..twittered Miss Moussie...this means it really and truly IS Spring...HURRAY..and she made a little jump out of joy..And whilst jumping she saw more Daisies in the field...my goodness..one two three...twenty five..<br />-I'll better take some home with me..she twittered....so I can let everybody know its spring..and we can call the meadow Daisy Meadow again...<br /><br />And so she did....she threw all the spy stuff out of the bag...and filled it with Daisies..she tied her magnifying glass around her neck on a string of grass..and headed home....singing a song..<br /><br />Lets follow her dear readers and friends..I have a feeling a new adventure starts today...and it has something to do with a Daisy and a Drumble....<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbC6ICUO0n0Hy3nqxK6mT1YerVIJk6sYKV2z2dcu2jqBhlv4PI1eLsWb2ArnQQC4_HzFdrW_QGBqMZAiaTAXDACajG5SCfzzxfHHWOUIdcWqngIwbUf1d12IPot0Ox2_B-hBXr7qzgwCU/s1600/Floating_Daisies_by_InthenamePhotography.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 305px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbC6ICUO0n0Hy3nqxK6mT1YerVIJk6sYKV2z2dcu2jqBhlv4PI1eLsWb2ArnQQC4_HzFdrW_QGBqMZAiaTAXDACajG5SCfzzxfHHWOUIdcWqngIwbUf1d12IPot0Ox2_B-hBXr7qzgwCU/s320/Floating_Daisies_by_InthenamePhotography.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584279992052786194" /></a><br />How happy Miss Moussie was..she was skipping through the Daisy meadow..her spy kit filled with Daisies...<br /> <br />-O I can;t wait to get home and show these pretty little flowers...she twittered...and whilst humming a merry tune she again reached the Drumble..<br />-O Yes...I almost forgot...The Drumble...I have to cross it ..o my goodness...I find Drumbles to be very suspicious..you never can tell where the lead to....<br /> <br />Soon Miss Moussie found the bridge...the old oak log was still laying there..patiently..for every woodland creature to get safely across to the other side of the water..<br /> <br />-Very careful now..twittered Miss Moussie..very careful now...slowly she started walking the bridge..when she was half way she suddenly stopped....<br />-What's that I see down there in the water..she squeaked...its...its a bottle...and I do believe there's a letter in that bottle...She grabbed her spy glass to focus....YES...she twittered exited...there's a message in that bottle...<br />Now Miss Moussie became very curious.....she just had to find out what was in that letter,who wrote it...why..when..and more questions of that sort..<br />-I HAVE to find a way to pick that bottle out of the water...she said to herself....<br /> <br />The bottle was caught between two slippery green cobblestones....this wasn't going to be an easy job to fetch it....in fact it could be very dangerous...<br /> <br />-This could be very dangerous...whispered Miss Moussie...and not at all a very easy job to do on my own...but...I simply MUST find out what that bottle is doing there in the Drumble..<br /> <br />She leaned forwards..now hanging face down over the edge of the bridge...her little arms reached out and tried to grab the bottle...<br />-O GOODNESS....she squeaked...my Daisies....there they go.....they fell out of my spy kit....o DARN......<br /><br />But then Miss Moussie got hold of the bottle...she pulled and pulled...and with great effort she managed to fish the bottle out of the water.....<br />-PFHEW...she twittered out of breath....this is even a greater catch then the Daisies....now lets open the bottle and find out whats in it..<br /><br /><br />If you would like to know what message Miss Moussie will find in the bottle....come back another day...and I'll tell you all about it...<br /><br />Miss Moussie was sad to have lost her daisies..there they went..floating down the stream in the dangerous Drumble...but she was also very happy to have found this bottle..this very mysterious bottle which she was about to open....to reveal the secret inside...A LETTER..!!!!<br /> <br />-Now..how to open this thing..she twittered whilst examining the bottle closer with the help of her spy glass....- AHA....luckily its not a bottle with a cork...!<br /> <br />Meanwhile...in the garden..Gustave was heading in the direction of Hilltop Hall....<br /> <br />-Isn't this the most marvellous spring weather, he croaked with a big grin on his frog face,this weather can make a frog whistle a tune.....and so he did..<br />Leaping and whistling..whistling and leaping..Gustave was a happy frog today...Off to see the Dutchess...<br /> <br />In the kitchen of Hilltop Hall...something was brewing....The sent of rosemary and parsley swirled through the open window....out into the blue yonder...<br /> <br />-HMMM....croaked Gustave..who sniffled the smell when he took a deep breath to whistle his tune..'HMmmm.whats that smell.....I'll have to find the source of this lovely sent..<br />And there he went ..following his nose...who directed him to the kitchen...-where he was going anyway-...to visit the Dutchess...<br /> <br />-Yoehoe...Dutchess darling..can I enter...I believe you are cooking something marvelous in there....<br />-Is this you Gustave..he heard the Dutchess answer....Please come in dear...you are just in time to help me sort out something...!<br />-Sort out a recipe..or.. do you need help cooking...asked Gustave ..always a pleasure my lady...and he enterded the kitchen by leaping through the open window..<br />-O my, what's this ..he croaked surprised when he landed on the kitchen table...Gustave found himself sitting in the midst of scattered photographs.....<br />-You are now sitting on my family...said the Dutchess with a smile...meet my grandmother..she is looking at you from under your toe...<br />-O..beg your pardon...croaked Gustave..and he jumped up...<br />-And now your behind is on my fathers head...giggled the Dutchess..never mind Gustave...my father loved frogs......<br />-What are you doing my dear Dutchess...is this what you meant by sorting out some things.....are you sorting out family pictures...could I be of some assistance...?<br />-Would you be so kind Gustave...I really could use some help..there is a big trunk in the attic...filled with very VERY old family pictures...I was planning to make a book ...to find out more about my heritage...back to the source of the Hilltop history....<br />-Back to the source you say.....well...I find that very interesting......<br />Miss Moussie would say...'one never knows what one will find'....And I agree, because one never knows..now does one..!! <br />-There must be pictures from your ancestors too dear Gustave..AND from Miss MOUSSIE....my mother made a lot of pictures in the garden when she was a little girl...will you help me find them..<br />A few minutes later..a frog and a dutchess were climbing the attic stairs...they were on a quest...The search of old family pictures..time flew by..<br /> <br /> <br />On the Old Log bridge....Miss Moussie had opened the bottle...and with a little twig she patiently and with much effort fumbled the letter out....<br />-There it is..she twittered softly.....Slowly and carefully she unfolded the letter.....took her spy glass...and she twittered the words that were written in blue ink out loud....<br /> <br />-“If I could tell you what it meant, there would be no point in finding it....at the source...-<br /> <br />-Finding it...whispered Miss Moussie..at the source..finding WHAT...?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpUhJlV8w_SCYzCditqmvX0T1prlQXaVasSPtx8MV9QgGyLGnclJzonh9dWcv2F74k3bpD3Tx3mnXQVzq3YCTGtpEOTehJvcweb3y6g4wB7krXS7we4XxCJk3HBDqWaZmHb6q1IAQSU0/s1600/DSC00176.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpUhJlV8w_SCYzCditqmvX0T1prlQXaVasSPtx8MV9QgGyLGnclJzonh9dWcv2F74k3bpD3Tx3mnXQVzq3YCTGtpEOTehJvcweb3y6g4wB7krXS7we4XxCJk3HBDqWaZmHb6q1IAQSU0/s400/DSC00176.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594674016989313186" /></a><br /><br /> For a moment she just stood there...staring at the letter....reading it over and over again...Then...she started walking...curious as she is....a little brave mouse...on her way to find what the meaning could be of something that could not be said, but what she clearly had to find out for herself......at the source.....the source of the Drumble..<br /><br />Whilst Miss Moussie is following the dangerous Drumble to its source...and Gustave is climbing into a trunk on the Hilltop Hall attic for a photo search...there is another little woodland creature on a quest.....Its Mr C..<br /><br />See....there he is....and what's that he's carrying ...a black box...well I do believe its a camera..Like the ones they used to take pictures with in another century....<br />Lets find out where he's going....lets follow him....but be ever so quiet...Mr C sees and hears everything...<br /><br />Just look at him scurrying through the undergrowth....<br />....O...he stopped....he's now focusing on something under the Lilac bush....<br /><br />FLASH........my goodness...was that lightning striking the Hilltop....<br />.....................................?<br />NO...Mr C took a picture......!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm-13KmcpxlHNnTGqC7lg9wD-8MQ4C6xZu-0jSSK5EBp9misiT-YuW84U43f7cmlsmuRN72Gksdl-lgTyhUHjJZLlsUPRWzHZndn2d195okHX6slfCZlAADN7sEMNbe0c4B_rBFek0uGQ/s1600/DSC00186.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm-13KmcpxlHNnTGqC7lg9wD-8MQ4C6xZu-0jSSK5EBp9misiT-YuW84U43f7cmlsmuRN72Gksdl-lgTyhUHjJZLlsUPRWzHZndn2d195okHX6slfCZlAADN7sEMNbe0c4B_rBFek0uGQ/s400/DSC00186.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598419866718654722" /></a><br /><br />You could see...and hear...the flash Mr C created with his little black box from afar....<br /> <br />-Goodness ..twittered Miss Moussie..what was that..and she stopped and paused for a while...could this be fireworks...?<br />The leaves on the trees above her little moussie head were rustling quietly...like they were saying..its OK..carry on..there's nothing strange under the sun today..we will be on the lookout ...<br /> <br />-The Dutchess and Gustave looked up from there picture book...The Dutchess lifted one eyebrow..like she always does when there is something what puzzles her...<br />-Maybe its the soup we left on the stove...said Gustave worried..and now it has exploded..<br />-No no..dear Gustave...answered the Dutchess and she smiled reassuring...lets continue..the soups fine..<br /><br />-WOW...uttered Mr C...my ears are ringing...what a noise...this cant be good..better check this black box before making another picture..<br />He wandered off to the riverbank..and sat himself down..<br />-How lovely this place is, he said to himself...he loved the little babbling brook...<br />He knew very well one had to be very careful when walking the Old Log Bridge...the little river could run wild and rush you off to unknown places..but for now..it looked ever so calm and romantic...glistening in the morning sun.<br />Mr C started fumbling with his black box....this was a marvelous opportunity to make some pictures of the dangerous Drumble in springtime...<br />-Its amazing hoe quick everything turned green so fast...said C surprised...I have to catch how the sunlight shines through the trees and makes this enchanting reflection in the water..<br />He focused on the Drumble...and what did catch his eye.......A Daisy floating by.....and another one...and another one.....<br />Daisies...in the Drumble...mumbled C....how strange...I don't suppose they took a dive into the water.....somehow they must of fallen in....<br />And in a mysterious way Mr C's mind wandered of to.......Miss Moussie...<br /><br /><br /><iframe width="425" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vBzf91NyqRI?fs=1" frameborder="0" allowFullScreen=""></iframe><br /><br />For a while Mr C just stood there....watching the daisies drift by....<br /> <br />-Now....Let's put one and one together..he whispered...<br />One...there are daisies in the Drumble<br />Two...they cant have jumped in by themselves...!<br />Three...so..someone must have throwed them in..but why..?<br />Four...o dear..maybe someone fell in together with the Daisies....<br />FFFive....and now C began to stutter...this always happens when he is nervous..or when he discovers something..FFFive..WHO loves daisies so much that he or she would dive into the Drumble.....O NO......Miss Moussie..THAT'S WHY my mind mysteriously wandered of to our dear moussie a few minutes ago......O DDDDear....MMmiss Mmoussie ffell in the DDrumble..<br /> <br />As fast as his little feet could dig...Mr C Mole raced through his under ground labyrinth..made a few u turns, took some wrong exit's in his hurry and confusion...but at last he reached the Hilltop Hall....stammering out of breath.....HHelp HHelp....anybody...ccome quickly....Wwe lllost Miss Moussie.... <br /> <br />And where was our dear Miss Moussie when Mr C rang the alarm bell at the Hilltop...<br />Skipping merely down a path that followed the riverbank of the Drumble....singing a happy tune...<br />-I'M OF TO FOLLOW THE DRUMBLE FOLLOWING THE DRUMBLE AM I....lalalalalalalaaa.......lalalalalalalalaaaaaaaaaaaaa.....<br />Miss Moussie was ever so curious what she was about to find at the source of the Drumble...and this had put her in a very jolly mood...<br />Whilst skipping and twittering Miss Moussie startled a little birdie....it flew of flapping his wings fiercely....a little feather came floating down on the wind....<br />-Don't be frightened dear birdie..squeaked Miss Moussie..I'm just a wanderer in the wilderness...I will do you no harm..and she picked up the feather that the little winged creature had lost in his flight..It was white and fluffy...with a silver lining..<br />-Aah, so lovely...said Miss Moussie to herself..I will keep it as a souvenir...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3sx6s4my_t3ws4VMmIVbn-VX6Aqgi4OG35PTBdGV4u1GiriL_sT37c-N3PrHAK4eQ_CD5816pU7jkfNMUnRP9EZfc0jcuD9qS349oKVtk_PpCDzQv2lUuP2NMfmxaK4mJSjwn82dg1G4/s1600/DSC00206.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3sx6s4my_t3ws4VMmIVbn-VX6Aqgi4OG35PTBdGV4u1GiriL_sT37c-N3PrHAK4eQ_CD5816pU7jkfNMUnRP9EZfc0jcuD9qS349oKVtk_PpCDzQv2lUuP2NMfmxaK4mJSjwn82dg1G4/s400/DSC00206.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606968919616160146" /></a><br /> <br />The little bird from high up a tree top saw Miss Moussie open her spy kit box and carefully put his lost feather away....<br />Miss MOussie then followed her trail.....and surprisingly the bird started to follow Miss Moussie..<br /><br />At the Hilltop....everybody was in a state of panic....Mr C had gathered all the hilltop creatures....and with he himself on the lead they were going on a search for Miss Moussie..<br /><br />Gustave in great courage (as always)followed Mr C....The Dutchess,very worried,followed Gustave..Elvira nervously followed the Dutchess....Mr H Hog, very brave, followed Elvira....he would go to the end of the world for Miss Moussie...and then there's US....following this parade....<br /><br />Better keep up now...don't lose track of the one walking before you...keep following...until we reach the source...<br /><br />Gustave followed Mr C ...he couldn't stop asking questions...<br /><br />-C..where did you see these daisies to be precise...?<br />-Told you my friend...in the Drumble...floating..down the stream...<br />-C..did you see any sign of life from Miss Moussie...<br />-Told you my friend...Daisies...floating in the Drumble..down the stream...<br />-C....but you didn't see Miss MOussie float...now did you...<br /><br />Our dear Dutchess followed Gustave..and she couldn't stop asking questions..<br /><br />-Gustave darling....what did C just say....did he go boating...<br />-No dearest....he said floating....down the stream..<br />-Boating down the stream...but I thought we were going upwards....<br />-We are....the daisies went the other way....<br />-Gustave darling tell C I am sure we have to go follow the Drumble...and we don't need a boat..<br /><br />Sweet Elvira followed the Dutchess....she was so nervous she couldn't stop asking questions..<br /><br />-Dutchess ....please...what's this with a boat...it didn't float.!?...O my goodness..<br />-No Elvira...the daisies did...down the stream....but I'm sure Miss Moussie went the other way...<br />-Miss Moussie floating in a boat...far away...O my goodness..<br /><br />Sir Hog did his best to keep up with Elvira..but to know what was happening he couldn't stop asking questions..<br /><br />-Elvira...wait for me ..wait for me..what did you just say....Miss Moussie went away in a boat....what ever for...?<br />-Keep up friend Horatio....Miss Moussie is floating in a boat far away down the stream...<br />-But ...but... we are going upwards....why...what...EVERYBODY STOP....and Sir Hog shouted in a very loud and firm tone of voice...COMPANY ....HALT..!!!!!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6PB7OgImizkyqTnQSEfmdFLrxVkoFmt_YXFcHoIvrUHXjAPMHC9SdNxVuyEKSgJWsx7XgoyOLxVlGNL194MBcsS_oAYgQAH2EjGlW4YQJOPwpSP1jt5rltA5J6yso0HNBuLJPdlbcL4/s1600/sir+hog+2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 221px; height: 166px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6PB7OgImizkyqTnQSEfmdFLrxVkoFmt_YXFcHoIvrUHXjAPMHC9SdNxVuyEKSgJWsx7XgoyOLxVlGNL194MBcsS_oAYgQAH2EjGlW4YQJOPwpSP1jt5rltA5J6yso0HNBuLJPdlbcL4/s400/sir+hog+2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608080599226002642" /></a><br /><br />We better do as he says...and stop...here...<br /><br />Abruptly the Dutchess and company stopped in there tracks....causing a multiple pile up of mole,frog,Dutchess,squirrel and hedgehog...<br /> <br />Poor Mr C...he walked in front of the row...and now the whole gang tumbled atop of him....<br /> <br />-HUMPH...humpfed Mr C..<br />-Help...Don't squish me..croaked Gustave..-<br />-So sorry ..said the Dutchess whilst standing up..are you oke Gustave darling...<br />-Whoops...uttered Elvira...sliding from the Dutchess behind taking with her Sir Hog who tried to grab a ribbon of the Dutchess's dress in an attempted to break his fall..<br />And for a moment he dangled there....until his arms couldn't hold him anymore and he had to let himself drop..bouncing like a little ball in the grass of the river bank...<br /> <br />-WWhy did we stop...stuttered C...this is no time for a picnic..<br />-You are so right croaked Gustave..there is no time to loose...who knows where Miss Moussie could be...<br />-She could be drifting in that little boat out in the open sea by now..said Elvira jumping up and down nervously..<br />-Nnobody said anything about a bboat stuttered C....!<br /> <br />The Dutchess just stood there...she didn't listen to what her Hilltop friends were saying..she was thinking about her dear Miss Moussie...What if she would never see her again..<br />There was this photograph they had found a couple of ours ago ...a picture of Miss Moussie....to cute for words...Miss Moussie as a baby,sitting in the the Daisy Meadow..<br />And then there was this teapot....<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKE30xGuC-Pi5EyXopPlR-okwEx-HTyDJ3l_gUVFpUxMLm3nb1lAlvnZsTq0U3cU2GS0FYRTAOvOcchjVIBu7VKt7iK80iTUGsG0E5puJB0yIaAr883Ly2WTOYkYGCU2ENiaoc4flI3RU/s1600/1bznxRiGXbMqhd5wU84.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 287px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKE30xGuC-Pi5EyXopPlR-okwEx-HTyDJ3l_gUVFpUxMLm3nb1lAlvnZsTq0U3cU2GS0FYRTAOvOcchjVIBu7VKt7iK80iTUGsG0E5puJB0yIaAr883Ly2WTOYkYGCU2ENiaoc4flI3RU/s400/1bznxRiGXbMqhd5wU84.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609191654868985906" /></a><br /><br /> -Dutchess...dearest....croaked Gustave ....dearest........A penny for your thoughts ..<br />-There is this teapot..I have to show Miss Moussie this teapot...whispered the Dutchess to herself..<br />-She fell on her head...now we have it....Miss Moussie gone and the Dutchess coocoo..said Sir Hog while he dusted himself of and straitened his back..<br />-Horatio...old chap..that's not a way to speak about our Dutchess croaked Gustave...you take that back I say...and he posted himself in front of Sir Hog's nose...<br /> <br />-Its all right Gustave said the Dutchess..everybody calm down...I was just thinking about my grandmothers teapot..I found it on the attic and it would be so lovely to have tea with Miss Moussie..she would LOVE this teapot...<br />-And so you will dearest..croaked Gustave...and so you will...Enough of this dilly dally...this is serious business...Come on..Proceed...we are on a quest...The quest to find Miss Moussie..<br /><br />Up stream..not even so far away from where our company was hiking....Miss Moussie heard a strange sound....<br />-Water...she squeaked...a LOT of water...O how wonderful..I believe I'm approaching a waterfall...I'm almost there...I've almost reached the source of the Drumble...And above her head a little bird started to sing a tune...<br /><br />It sounded like the biggest rainstorm ever...Miss Moussie never saw a waterfall in her entire moussies life so you can imagine how she felt.. her little heart pounded very very fast..<br />Miss Moussie followed a bend in the river...and THERE it was...<br /> <br />From high up..between some rocks..the water came plunging down...<br />-O my goodness..twittered Miss Moussie...what a wonderful sight...and what noise..it almost sounds like thunder....For a minute she was quit overwhelmed by the beauty of this phenomenon..and she almost forgot to breathe....<br />-I made it ..she twittered with a big happy sigh..I made it...THIS is the source of the Drumble..Phew..I have to sit down for a while....and enjoy this spectacular view..<br /> <br />Miss Moussie sat herself down in the grass of the riverbank....the sun was shining bright...Life was good....And above Miss Moussies head circled a little bird...watching her..then flying away following the Drumble ,gently down the stream....<br /> <br />The Dutchess and Company were now very close in finding Miss Moussie..in a few minutes they are about to reach the river bend...I know it ..and now you know it...but they don;t know it, yet.!....In fact they are very sure the search is leading nowhere...and that our moussie is lost for ever...<br /> <br />There they are..walking in silence...with a heavy heart...<br />-The Dutchess looked up...seeing nothing but blue skies....sunlight through the treetops...and a beautiful white bird...how lovely..<br />-There...a little white bird...croaked Gustave..I've never seen such a birdie...anyone...?<br />Gustave was only asking this to distracted our little Hilltop Company from being so gloomy..<br />The little white bird swooped down..and flew up again..<br />-O would you look at that...said Elvira surprised..<br />Again and again the white bird swooped down...and again and again...it flew up again..<br />-Its a sign...said C..I see it..its a sign..<br />-Follow that bird...yelled Horatio...I'm sure its a sign or my name isn't Horatio..there's more between heaven....<br />-Yes yes...we know that..croaked Gustave...don't dilly dally..This birdie is trying to tell us something..<br />As fast as there feet were willing to run our company ran following the bird...THERE..a bend in the river....and -O MY GOSH,said the Dutchess- a waterfall....and....-Hallelujah..croaked Gustave.....they found Miss Moussie.....<br /> <br />Well dear reader and friend..you can imagine how happy our little friends were to see our moussie sitting there..safe and sound...<br />To celebrate the wonderful moment they asked Mr C to take a picture...and so he did..It took some time..but it became one of his HAPPIEST pictures ever made..!!!<br /> <br />What I would like to ad ( as a writer) at the end of this story is this....When you find an old photograph...and you can't recall where it was made...what year..what date..or even what occasion..never mind...Just ask yourself this...are the people on this picture smiling..do they look happy......When everything else is history...what will remain is the expression in their eyes and on their faces...they will share that moment with you for ever and ever..and you will know if they found the source what makes life worth living..love ..!<br />-“If I could tell you what it meant, there would be no point in finding it...Remember the message in the bottle...we all have to find this source for ourselfs...to understand....<br /> <br />So..when somebody finds this photograph which Mr C made today...in, lets say one hundred years...I'll doubt anyone will remember where or why it was taken...but they will see a merry group of friends ,happy to have found each other,and happy to be in each other's company..and that's all what counts..(lovely detail in the photograph a little white bird flying over their heads.....)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIcpy7SFGgQ2avsQgpPP2siEeo56hS5utAY0Kzmo97d_6SYTSelCRTKvvYoLbx1KWUn1y1xv5q1LYGam8lqBqsDD2VXqU_GYLNEvnaYp3n4BIZ7ph4gIqOMOQ6yL5HKLfNYi1mDMy79Gw/s1600/mei+2011+044.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIcpy7SFGgQ2avsQgpPP2siEeo56hS5utAY0Kzmo97d_6SYTSelCRTKvvYoLbx1KWUn1y1xv5q1LYGam8lqBqsDD2VXqU_GYLNEvnaYp3n4BIZ7ph4gIqOMOQ6yL5HKLfNYi1mDMy79Gw/s400/mei+2011+044.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610203268961712690" /></a><br />(you can click the picture for a better view)<br /><br />Here we will end the storytelling..Miss Moussie has some explaining to do,she had to make a promise to Gustave that she will never again go wandering in the wilderness.... and the Dutchess is in a hurry because she is going on a trip ..!<br /><br />Feel free to visit the Hilltop ...Sir Hog is the gate keeper this time..and I am sure he will let you in....The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-10178461703029278752011-01-06T10:26:00.015+01:002011-01-06T12:29:34.967+01:00THE SEASON OF LIGHT..<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJTqRfgqzCrrsE-mDIWN5WG_hrrgcdbaqCPO8Zn3ULY6NtHWRCpSRoPM5_nz5D3JxX1fiHVh0tlPlYKIRfEWRl4asoggkn0Pst-cJqfH88qAoUc0yGkB7XoBV9sB6qNrCU3MUoRODgIo/s1600/Window_Candles_Offer_Warmth_Tradition_And_Security.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 171px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJTqRfgqzCrrsE-mDIWN5WG_hrrgcdbaqCPO8Zn3ULY6NtHWRCpSRoPM5_nz5D3JxX1fiHVh0tlPlYKIRfEWRl4asoggkn0Pst-cJqfH88qAoUc0yGkB7XoBV9sB6qNrCU3MUoRODgIo/s400/Window_Candles_Offer_Warmth_Tradition_And_Security.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535344669098575474" /></a><br />At the end of the afternoon,the Dutchess stumbled down the stairs....tired..wearing a deep frown on her forehead...she had been writing....<br />-'O my gosh'..she whispered to herself at the last step of the stairs..'its already dark in the hall...what could be the time..?'<br />She reached for the light switch..and waited for the chandelier to spread his light on the big standing clock....<br />-'Six o clock....of course....we arrived in wintertime..the time of early darkness but also the time of light....we can start thinking about Christmas...how wonderful..'<br />All kinds of thoughts tumbled through the Dutchess's mind when she walked through the hallway...trees..lights..presents..turkey...friends..castles crowns cottages and laughter...and.. hot chocolate because THAT was the reason to go downstairs..towards the kitchen..<br />Again....in the kitchen...total darkness...and silence...nobody home..<br /> <br />-I am going to gather and light all the candles there are in the house..and I'm going to have a little party all by myself...celebrating THIS time of year...and everything nice to come...sitting in my quiet kitchen and just contemplate..<br />After she thought up this wonderful idea...the Dutchess wanted to go on a candle search in the dark...(She didn;t want to turn on the kitchen light to disturb the romance..)<br /> <br />THEN....Ssst....what was that...what sound did she just hear coming out of the darkness....It was a very loud squeak followed by.. the patter of little feet....<br />-Someone there..asked the Dutchess a bit nervous...who are you..and what are you doing in my kitchen....<br />-O..so sorry...Its only me....I didn't want to frighten you....but when you came in YOU frightened ME...<br />-Ah..its you Miss Moussie....I should have recognised you by your lovely squeak...tell me...why are you wandering around in the dark...did you need anything from the kitchen..<br />-No No...I came to visit you my dearest....I was thinking..why is it so dark in the kitchen...no lights..no stove burning...no Dutchess cooking or sitting at the table....I thought something could be wrong...Are you feeling well dear.....can I make you a cup of tea..You look kind of tired...<br />-Thank you so much for you concern dear Miss M....but I'm fine..<br />-"Speak you this with a sad brow?" ...twittered Miss Moussie....I don't believe you..<br />-Ah..Shakespeare my dear....how wonderful witty...and this you can see in the darkness..<br />-Mice have very good eyesight...but it would be better to bring some light into this kitchen...I agree..<br />- I was just on my way to light ALL the candles we have in the house and create a romantic atmosphere in this kitchen...just because its November and we are starting a new wonderful season...The season of light..Would you like to join me...<br />-Marvelous...simply marvelous dearest....I'll help you....and could we please make some hot chocolate before we sit down to enjoy the candlelight view..<br />-You can read my mind..smiled the Dutchess....<br /> <br />When the first candles did light up the kitchen,the stove was burning,and the smell of hot chocolate made its way out through the crack in the door....a little creature, walking in the garden stopped in his tracks...<br /> <br />-Hmmmmmm.....I MUST follow that smell.....it uttered in immediate haste....and there it went..<br /> <br />High above the bare treetops....in a cold blustery winter wind..an owl came circling down...<br />Who flew in....with mighty flapping wings...not stopping until he bumped into the kitchen door...with a devastating big bump...and there it was he dropped...on the doormat..<br /> <br />A voice inside the Hilltop Hall squeaked..ENTER..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Lnn7KOrleeE1vHbaridM72862RBI0Vzz4I-dSvfS878tOzqNA1WFcF3d2xxgTY49OXZ8hD1Fujno16yquMXq86fjLhIyzJO9vR3X9xSAd-MBVr008ky1yveQ9BbdNffxyzckaczzthQ/s1600/GreatHornedOwl.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Lnn7KOrleeE1vHbaridM72862RBI0Vzz4I-dSvfS878tOzqNA1WFcF3d2xxgTY49OXZ8hD1Fujno16yquMXq86fjLhIyzJO9vR3X9xSAd-MBVr008ky1yveQ9BbdNffxyzckaczzthQ/s320/GreatHornedOwl.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537502602543075570" /></a><br />-There's a bang at the door....squeaked Miss Moussie..someone who isn't polite enough to gracefully knock.. <br />-I'LL go and see who that is..said the Dutches..and with her cup of hot chocolate still in her hand she walked to the kitchen door and opened it..<br /> <br />Who..because that's who it was..stood up from the doormat, where he made his spectacular landing just a few seconds before.. and entered..<br />He didn't say a word....He shook his wings..fumbled with his feathers..and then flew up with a little flutter ...muttering something like...'AAAh'..and then crashed on the kitchen table..leaning his head in a very dramatic pose against the teapot..<br /> <br />-Who..so nice of you to drop by....said the Dutchess with a smile...<br />-Yes..nice..twittered Miss Mousie ,but could you please knock next time..I find a bang on the door to be very suspicious..one never knows what one will find on one's doormat..<br />-I am so sorry...said Who a bit out of breath...but I was in a hurry...And I didn't come alone..<br />-Is there somebody else going to bump into our kitchen door....twittered Miss Moussie curious..tell me Who..who..?..<br /> <br />Again Who started to fumble with his feathers...and flap his wings.. he didn't seem to be able to sit still...<br /> <br />-Who dear..please sit still for a while...you are making me nervous..are you having an itch..twittered Miss Moussie...and then she herself started to scratch her back..<br />-Is there something tickling you ,asked the Dutchess,when she saw Who starting to giggle and now jump up and down on the kitchen table..<br /> <br />-WHOOOHAHA..uttered Who ...just a minute....have to find something..WOOHAH.......AAAAh..there IT is....<br />-Where..where squeaked Miss Moussie..Who..you are scaring me now..I don't see IT..'<br /> <br />-But I do..said the Dutchess...will you look at that tiny little creature...how cute...<br /> <br />On the table next to Who's big owl feet..crawled a white wiggly wormy thing...Yes..a worm..!<br /> <br />-May I introduce to you..said Who..now relieved to got rid of this tickling thing...may I introduce to you..a worm from a book...and not just any book..this one comes from...Frankenstein..<br /> <br />The Dutchess and Miss Moussie where flabbergasted..they stood there staring at this wiggly THING...a sound came out of it...<br /> <br />-Hi there..it said...with a very tiny voice...I come from Frankensteins book and my name is Monster...how do you do..<br /> <br />First there was silence..and then Miss Moussie started to laugh..like she couldn't stop..<br /><br /><br />IN the meantime..A little creature scurries through the garden...he is following his nose...and his nose told him to go to Hilltop Hall in a hurry because there could be something chocolate...!<br /> <br />-Chocolate..whispers Gustave (because that's who it is)...chocolate..only the Dutchess can make hot chocolate that smells this good..and he makes a big leap for joy..<br />There..he can see Hilltop Hall in the distance...How wonderful...Smoke is coming out the chimney and there are lights in the kitchen...It looks ever so warm and inviting..<br />Coming closer Gustave hears a murmur of laughter through the treetops...its coming out of the house and it sounds very familiar..It could be Miss Moussie..<br />-Well...they are having fun in there..says Gustave to himself and he stops to listen..<br />-Isn't it wonderful to have friends to come home to ,he sighs gratefully...<br /> <br />The evening is quiet and very still...There's only the sound of leaves whirling on the ground..round and round and round they go....a beautiful happy dance...The moon is full and casts his light on a big red toadstool...Gustave decides to pause for a while to enjoy the view and the fresh night air..<br />He hops on the stool and gazes at the sky...its clear and bright...and very cold..very cold indeed...Gustave's mind wanders of...thinking..There could be snow....yes....there could be snow..wouldn't that be enchanting..<br /> <br />-Hello there....hé...you up there..excuse me....helloooooo....!<br /><br />A little creature stretched itself up on tiptoe, and peeped over the edge of the mushroom, and its eyes immediately met those of Gustave, sitting on the top.....<br /> <br />-Helloooooo IT uttered again....excuse me....you up there...can I ask you a question...?<br /><br />Gustave responded immediately and he asked in great surprise....'Who are you.....?<br />-I'm Alice..answered the creature..and I am a worm..not just ANY worm you know..I come from Wonderland...<br /><br />And then Gustave almost fell of his stool...laughing like he couldn't stop...<br />A worm from Wonderland....HaaaHaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyXVdGD0Ve6aX5Hj29GlvP22tQhQ_H26cp-kWog_3Aic7Q1fKsB3H51Di6JtGN6EGZ2IbfhBU0Hyg2yF0Vg4xijeQ7-KqiyQNlO2ky-XRzAOXKVC18ivy76OLE6onz1VWSaTxCXJ_QV8w/s1600/Foto1221.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyXVdGD0Ve6aX5Hj29GlvP22tQhQ_H26cp-kWog_3Aic7Q1fKsB3H51Di6JtGN6EGZ2IbfhBU0Hyg2yF0Vg4xijeQ7-KqiyQNlO2ky-XRzAOXKVC18ivy76OLE6onz1VWSaTxCXJ_QV8w/s400/Foto1221.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544589192776161794" /></a><br /><br />-What's so funny ...said Alice... please Mr Frog, is it possible, when you have stopped laughing, to ask you a question....?<br />-O..I'm so sorry my dear ...croaked Gustave with a big grin on his frog face..I'm so sorry,this isn't very polite of me...Its ever so nice to meet you..you look adorable.. My name is Gustave and please..do tell me...how can I help you..?<br />-Well,the problem is...Gustave.. I AM LOST....and everything is getting curiouser and curiouser...<br />-Lost you say...lost in the woods....?<br />-Yes....suddenly I found myself falling and falling ..and there I was..In the middle of Hilltop forest...and now I don't know how to get back..<br />-Back to whére little Alice,croaked Gustave...where did you come from..?<br />-From a book...said Alice with a very tiny voice...the most wonderful book ever written...and I;m a very important character in it...I'm Alice....<br /> <br />Gustave looked puzzled....he didn't know what to say..A lost worm....how strange..<br /> <br />-Come on..he croaked whilst hopping of his stool...I know just the person who can help you....follow me little Alice..We are going to visit the Dutchess..she'll know what to do..<br />-The Duchess...uttered Alice surprised..did you say the Duchess...she's in my book you know..she is very ugly don;t you think..!<br />-I THINK NOT...croaked Gustave...my Dutchess is very lovely looking...how dare you say this about the Dutchess..are we speaking about the same person..?<br />-Well, last week she said this to me...listen "'You don't know much; and that's a fact",this wasn't very nice...<br />-Couldn't be my Dutchess, said Gustave..I'm sure of it...<br />-How about this then.....and I quote..: Be what you would seem to be -- or, if you'd like it put more simply -- Never imagine yourself not to be otherwise than what it might appear to others that what you were or might have been was not otherwise than what you had been would have appeared to them to be otherwise.<br />-This COULD be my Dutchess but I think I should understand that better, if you had it written down....I can't quite follow it as you say it...<br />-THAT'S what I thought..when I heard that the first time.... Alice said surprised..<br /> <br /> The situation was,like Alice mentioned before,getting curiouser and curiouser..Together Gustave and Alice walked towards Hilltop Hall....Off to see The Dutchess..<br /> <br />Meanwhile ...in the kitchen of Hilltop Hall....a little wormy creature named Monster asked..<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf45pzoGjreKYzwzInn0VX_ZMQo8h6HQruyT69XrJtFgicz7-VXxwqj9MgvCm4SdF4pXH8GLWssycmkvVwG1l9APzg5embm0KY1gDzgcek01mJoP2uOoiCN0wZe_qgC9sEzVk3KCHFJ_A/s1600/Foto1236.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf45pzoGjreKYzwzInn0VX_ZMQo8h6HQruyT69XrJtFgicz7-VXxwqj9MgvCm4SdF4pXH8GLWssycmkvVwG1l9APzg5embm0KY1gDzgcek01mJoP2uOoiCN0wZe_qgC9sEzVk3KCHFJ_A/s320/Foto1236.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547876151043126258" /></a><br /> -What;s so funny...never saw a worm before...?<br />--Not a worm from frankenstein...laughed Miss Moussie...Whats with all the stitches..you look all stitched up...I'm afraid when I touch you ,you might fall apart...<br />-I happen to be proud of my stitches ...Its what makes me special..I am a very important character from a very famous book...I'm the Monster...I was created....<br />-O yes..I know the book..twittered Miss Moussie...I found it very creepy.....The monster was made by a crazy scientist...And crazy scientists are not to be trusted...<br />-Well,let me tell you....I am NOT my creator...I am a very loving creature..!<br />Let me quote myself...I do know that for the sympathy of one living being, I would make peace with all. I have love in me likes of which you can scarcely imagine and eh.....eh....<br /> <br />-And eh WHAT,,twittered miss Moussie..<br />-Eh..I fforgot the rrest...stammered the monster...<br />-HMMN...squeaked Miss Moussie..whilst looking at the Dutchess.....very suspicious....<br /><br />-O my goodness...said the Dutchess...look what just entered the kitchen....<br /><br />Miss Moussie turned around and saw Gustave standing on the doormat...and next to him a worm..a worm with curls ....<br /><br />-I'll say.....twittered Miss Moussie..O. M. G. indeed....!<br /><br />-Hello there...croaked Gustave...I was planning to come for a cup of cocoa but look what I found on my way over here..and he pointed towards the worm standing next to him....Dear friends..let me introduce to you ...Alice...from wonderland...<br /><br />Alice..very courteously made a bough and said...So nice to meet you all...I hope I'm not causing any inconvenience by crawling in unannounced...<br /><br />-Well..dear Gustave..and..eh ..Alice, twittered Miss Moussie..you are ever so welcome...and please meet another unexpected quest....The Monster...from Frankenstein...!<br /><br />Now it was Gustave's turn to be surprised again...and little Alice stood there silent..and motionless...<br />Nobody knew exactly what to do or what to say...<br /><br />Dear friends...said the Dutchess breaking the silence.....this seems to be a very awkward situation.....so please forgive us our behavior...worms on kitchen tables or on doormats are not something we are used to..Please, Mr Monster and sweet little Alice ..would you be so kind to tell us what may be the purpose of your visit..<br /><br />-Its a worm thing...said the Monster<br />-No,its a book thing..said little Alice whilst climbing the table leg...<br />-Its more wormy then book..said the Monster..<br />-No,its more book then wormy..said Alice..now reaching the table surface..<br />-I would say its a bookworm thing..said the Monster.<br />-I agree,said Alice..and she sat herself down at Owls feet.....who sat very still in anticipation....what next..?<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwfmIquj8w8Zt8weMCW_IW6KwPkD0BXxw9rJDmi9TpFLMB26HohCrlhyphenhyphenlQdkeomE7mvHhQ5Kko0G0F-Ceg3K4nG4ftP6PFm3OWnGzHcKJEmCS4TxSowOvzcztUXNopQU329ckDFe0ck0/s1600/Foto1237.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwfmIquj8w8Zt8weMCW_IW6KwPkD0BXxw9rJDmi9TpFLMB26HohCrlhyphenhyphenlQdkeomE7mvHhQ5Kko0G0F-Ceg3K4nG4ftP6PFm3OWnGzHcKJEmCS4TxSowOvzcztUXNopQU329ckDFe0ck0/s320/Foto1237.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548641321424795186" /></a><br />-Oke..,croaked Gustave ..leaping from the doormat to a kitchen chair....so far so good...<br /><br />-What's a bookworm thing...twittered Miss Moussie...I never saw it before...never heard of it either...?<br /><br />Did You...?<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyjakBcTOldRZb-qDziUFMImCJYhxlfr84BpFrH5hh3x1J4eR0ixOO-pZx_b7_7ko_VsvXq7O5U4x4XKm5BYK5xodlmkKiLxfewU0ozeRIBtUSijX0d1g0JQMuvQuu_y8rdzBbV6Jd7U/s1600/2646317.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyjakBcTOldRZb-qDziUFMImCJYhxlfr84BpFrH5hh3x1J4eR0ixOO-pZx_b7_7ko_VsvXq7O5U4x4XKm5BYK5xodlmkKiLxfewU0ozeRIBtUSijX0d1g0JQMuvQuu_y8rdzBbV6Jd7U/s400/2646317.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551218183456455618" /></a><br />It was a strange looking scene in the Dutchess's kitchen...There was Who, sitting on the Table with at his big owl feet two little worms..<br />Miss Moussie had sat herself down on her thimble...it was always standing ready for her next to the teapot warmer,and Gustave found a lovely seat close to the Dutchess...at the rim of her now empty cocoa cup. <br /> <br />The worms continued there story..<br /> <br />-Dear Dutchess said Alice....when was the last time you visited your library..I ask you this because there's SO many dust on all of the books...you wouldn;t believe !...WE...the bookworms who live there are having some serious allergy problems...we can not stop sneezing....<br />-And don't forget to mention the darkness...there hasn;t been any light coming into MY book for ages....said the Monster...<br />-We need the light dearest Dutchess...its not possible for any living being to live in darkness all of the time...we don't know when its day or night...I can't see if the roses are white or red in MY book...sighed Alice..and this could bring some characters of my story in big problems..<br />-I'm sorry to say that there are worms who have left this building searching for a lighter and brighter place...we surtenly need this at this time of year...and after saying this Monster took a deep breath...He looked very sad....He knew where living in darkness could lead to...<br /> <br />-I understand...twittered Miss Moussie..it is the season of light...I would be sad too when I had to spend it in darkness...Tell me..are there more worms wandering around on the Hilltop searching for a brighter place...<br /> <br />-O my goodness...I feel very bad....Dear Alice..and dear Monster you are trying to tell me that I've neglected you...and you are so right..I haven't been in the library for months...the Dutchess said this whilst searching for her handkerchief...she had tears in her eyes...<br />-Don't cry my sweet lady...croaked Gustave..and he helped to pull out a handkerchief out of the Dutchess's sleeve...please don't cry...You couldn't help it..you have been ever so busy....writing and drawing...<br />-Yes yes...AND spending to much time at my computer...sniffled the Dutchess...I didn't read a book for ......I don't even know when I last read a book...a she blew her nose..very loud!!<br /> <br />-You know...whispered Alice,while she crawled close to the Dutchess to look her in the eye..you know, we even thought of choosing the dark side..and become a VIRUS! <br />People are not reading books anymore...we worry all the books could disappear in time so we were thinking to go in the computer business...and sabotage the system...we even had a name for our virus....The Trojan Horse...I believe some worms all over the world are already very busy doing so...<br />-O MY GOODNESS..twittered Miss Moussie...you can not do that...a virus is very dangerous and is not to be trusted...please tell us how we can help....before this gets out of control...?<br /> <br />For a moment there they were all thinking what to do....when a knock and muffled sound came from....the refrigerator....<br /> <br />-COMMmmminannnnknooowmebrrrtmn.....<br /> <br />-Curiouser and curiouser said Alice.....there's someone at the fridge door....<br /><br />-Do you think its safe to open that fridge...twittered Miss Moussie..<br />-I'm curious...like Alice...said the Dutchess.....we have to know whats in there...!<br />-Maybe its the Christmas pudding.....getting impatient and wanting to come out....croaked Gustave..<br />-Shall I open it, hooted Owl....if its something creepy I'LL slam the door shot again..I'm very quick on these wings..and to demonstrate this Who flapped his wings furiously..<br /> <br />-And doing so Who created a storm strong enough to blow Alice and Monster away...<br />Luckily both of the worms made a soft landing in the sugar bowl..<br /> <br />-Dear Who..Be careful when you open that door ..said the Dutchess..I will be right behind you..<br />-Me too...squeaked Miss Moussie..<br />-Me three..croaked Gustave....uh...On the count of three everybody..<br />-One....two....THREE....and there Who opened the fridge door.....<br /><br />This is what they saw....<br />Another worm ..sitting in the middle of the Christmas pudding...shouting..<br /><br />........COME IN AND KNOW ME BETTER MAN.....!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSVWlxv35WGeqr0xpCEyxsdVmB_w2M-FUivrP1RDJSERbBeINbCHmrCF7s3ZByAWtJvH9KZ7rsiEEaD62TGQOO5g5hNDK95AS8EC5Mmd7N_PN5CF2JXCeI5-P86rNZkwlvydSccjHHIxc/s1600/Foto1267.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSVWlxv35WGeqr0xpCEyxsdVmB_w2M-FUivrP1RDJSERbBeINbCHmrCF7s3ZByAWtJvH9KZ7rsiEEaD62TGQOO5g5hNDK95AS8EC5Mmd7N_PN5CF2JXCeI5-P86rNZkwlvydSccjHHIxc/s400/Foto1267.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553490879425075538" /></a><br /><br />O.M Goodness..twittered Miss Moussie...I know that worm....Its the worm of Christmas present...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkgVd8C15TEVU2WKsMNOA_iWKiKoCjE8xOIv8EIqBNTxBGjo-oeUmtK7-E2AyHBGk03IydRPQH817UbfbzFvK21TB2TlQZgm1Efvn2YIyyuANpUAgUa9MdCWQSUVj_INP6TQ3-z3XXX4c/s1600/SC918_pref.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 309px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkgVd8C15TEVU2WKsMNOA_iWKiKoCjE8xOIv8EIqBNTxBGjo-oeUmtK7-E2AyHBGk03IydRPQH817UbfbzFvK21TB2TlQZgm1Efvn2YIyyuANpUAgUa9MdCWQSUVj_INP6TQ3-z3XXX4c/s320/SC918_pref.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554243106329924626" /></a><br />-You must be the ghost of Christmas present ..twittered Miss Moussie..But ..you are very tiny...The ghost in the Christmas Carol is a giant..'<br />-AHAA..said the worm in the fridge..you know your classics...surely then you can remember that the ghost of Christmas present has the ability to change ..so he can fit into ANY space...like I'm doing today...!<br />-Did you come alone....asked the Dutchess...or are there more worms in my refrigerator..?<br />-I have..now let me count..uuuh...2009 brothers to be precise..answered the ghostly worm..<br />-YIKES......Dearest..you have more then 2000 of those wormy ghosts in your fridge..squeaked Miss Moussie..EEEuw..<br />-No no no...said the ghost ...I;m alone....you really should read the<a href="http://special.lib.gla.ac.uk/exhibns/month/dec1999.html"> Christmas Carol </a>again sweet Moussie..it seems you forgot a part that's very elementary..I am alone because I AM the GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT....meaning I can only exist in the NOW....I am on Earth for just one single year....the year 2010....and this year is almost coming to an end...SO....And there he paused for a while....so.......I come with a very important message..I am a ghost on a mission...<br />-We believe you are not the only worm on a mission...croaked Gustave....look...and he pointed towards the wiggly worms in the sugar bowl...they also tried to tell us something...<br />-And we think we've got the message dear Ghost...said the Dutchess... I believe its all my fault...I'm the one who neglected the books....and the worms...Tell me ..what can I do...<br />-There's no better time to make a change then the present time...said the wormy ghost....whilst wiggling out of the Christmas pudding..<br />-I know what to do...twittered Miss Moussie exited...I know exactly what to do.......we are...uh...and then...ah...yes....<br />-Don't keep us in suspense sweet Miss...croaked Gustave...we all know you're ideas can be quit brilliant at times...do share them with us..<br /> <br />-A big smile appeared on Miss Moussie face and she twittered with a firm tone of twitter...(which could only mean that whatever she had been figuring out definitely was going to happen).....LISTEN....We are going to celebrate Christmas in the Library..<br /> <br />-Marvellous...said the Dutchess...<br />-Amazing...croaked Gustave..<br />-Wonderful...wiggled the worms...<br />-What a hoot...hooted Owl....<br />-I love it when a plan comes together ..squeaked Miss Moussie....come on everybody...things to do ..places to go....no time to waste.....<br /><br />And so this story comes to an end...Christmas came and all of our little garden creatures made it a very very special one..SO..On the Hilltop the days before Christmas were very busy...<br />Everybody was doing his best to make this the most wonderful Christmas holiday ever..<br /> <br />Sir Horatio Hog was in charge to arrange the lights...He was standing in the Library..looking up...<br />-Now that these poor little worms were in the dark for such a long time I am going to hang more then a million lights in this place...this he said to Mr C...who just entered the Hilltop Library...carrying a basket full of dusting cloths.<br />-Great idea my friend Horatio..said Mr C...there's more between heaven and earth then darkness...I'm sure you will do a grand job bringing light into the Library and to Hilltop Hall...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_G378CXOjHku9SBPj4T9mr-hkb6M_BEHtQZk4HLwdroMbQNlrYfDF4GdaeXT4hmOMGNr3SmCvYoh9_HUQmqrLvWLRRhOGGDugDQVS7Tk2yLhZOq-MSJ_1u931FxSDfpUwoDPhtiVyfis/s1600/christmas-lights.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 199px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_G378CXOjHku9SBPj4T9mr-hkb6M_BEHtQZk4HLwdroMbQNlrYfDF4GdaeXT4hmOMGNr3SmCvYoh9_HUQmqrLvWLRRhOGGDugDQVS7Tk2yLhZOq-MSJ_1u931FxSDfpUwoDPhtiVyfis/s320/christmas-lights.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554957365371963186" /></a><br />-I can't wait to see this..said the Dutchess..following Mr C and pulling behind her a vacuum cleaner..but please let us clean up first and dust the books and bookshelf's....<br />-Yes...OPEN those stuffy books...said C...let them breathe..(and... so he thought by himself...and...then I can take a quick look inside..he LOVED books).<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi57VhdI-eqtJMv3NP9Y5kEQp1AXCzx2pDlCuKB2Jp1P0Hv7Uvh20781FwK-Yul2TPRAiqschZYwgC1MZ5sdOyEzTS6QbMoPZrlnyOKa9WcXIVoHNosHdSxkJ3WgS-hXxAaqJmMFdhebXo/s1600/old_books.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi57VhdI-eqtJMv3NP9Y5kEQp1AXCzx2pDlCuKB2Jp1P0Hv7Uvh20781FwK-Yul2TPRAiqschZYwgC1MZ5sdOyEzTS6QbMoPZrlnyOKa9WcXIVoHNosHdSxkJ3WgS-hXxAaqJmMFdhebXo/s320/old_books.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554958086642671538" /></a><br /> <br />Gustave was in charge of the Christmas dinner...he has been cooking for days and days....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3qTcqoIzHAyY5Uy6TcYWLs5U2Zd9DV4u4R_ruTpCO-mFJYoHiThCaDSQXTXuWusSmQ-aPJLOagiZtY3JCaxvqIKiZ7BEE9gIuOEjZZXyeWSKZwc1gHvZ11-ziRPflbsNoLgkcXCu1130/s1600/christmas-table1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3qTcqoIzHAyY5Uy6TcYWLs5U2Zd9DV4u4R_ruTpCO-mFJYoHiThCaDSQXTXuWusSmQ-aPJLOagiZtY3JCaxvqIKiZ7BEE9gIuOEjZZXyeWSKZwc1gHvZ11-ziRPflbsNoLgkcXCu1130/s320/christmas-table1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554959834086808642" /></a><br /><br /> And our dear Miss Moussie....she insisted to decorate the tree..with a little help from Elvira...<br />It took some time to get the tree inside the house..and for a while it was stuck at the winding stairs..the Library is at the second floor...so they had to drag the tree two spiral staircases up..!!<br /> <br />But today ..after some hard work...you are all ever so welcome to visit<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFONwXB-8euEV1CrUxnEBbroxXVRm-zjZWGtCdFspkLMeUgXrNUksBEvZUCPXg_7vlnQlvSo7yyRNA_3KpHXhyphenhyphenNp5k8O75CxoM1BRp2XPZE0zANfyC-lkv163JeVzcyuitSdrI4nAX3vw/s1600/CountrycityMouse_ScottGustaffson.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFONwXB-8euEV1CrUxnEBbroxXVRm-zjZWGtCdFspkLMeUgXrNUksBEvZUCPXg_7vlnQlvSo7yyRNA_3KpHXhyphenhyphenNp5k8O75CxoM1BRp2XPZE0zANfyC-lkv163JeVzcyuitSdrI4nAX3vw/s320/CountrycityMouse_ScottGustaffson.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554963341350252338" /></a><br />The snowy Hilltop inhabitants would like to wish you a Merry Christmas!<br />Here's to you...my dear reader and friend..lets toast and sit down by the fire..Shake hand with the bookworms...and lets make them a promise..<br />Don't forget the BOOKS....because there are worms in it...!~We read to know we are not alone~(C.S Lewis).<br /><br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS76IYyfQI2gPeZhbag9VgSKc3ZwuiKX3isIK9zjhUJpMScqylMrEkq_p1kQQJ_naPwncg2I-X0nAH0xrUn8PwkbkknyF8Qj7N0ePu_77dyVXpkXx-Tl5SO00ByoJLFD1_A_U-ZC-EA6w/s1600/xmas_library.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 257px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS76IYyfQI2gPeZhbag9VgSKc3ZwuiKX3isIK9zjhUJpMScqylMrEkq_p1kQQJ_naPwncg2I-X0nAH0xrUn8PwkbkknyF8Qj7N0ePu_77dyVXpkXx-Tl5SO00ByoJLFD1_A_U-ZC-EA6w/s320/xmas_library.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554953464753851602" /></a><br /><br />And to end this little story Mr C would like to read you a poem he found whilst dusting the books...<br />John Kendrick Bangs (1862-1922) ‘Bookworm Ballads, a literary feast<br /><br />My Bookworm gave a dinner to a number of his set.<br />I was not there — I say it to my very great regret.<br />For they dined well, I fancy, if the menu that I saw<br />Was followed as implicitly as one obeys the law.<br /><br />“’Twill open,” he observed to me, “with quatrains on the half.<br />They go down easy; then for soup” — it really made me laugh —<br />“The poems of old Johnny Gay” — his words were rather rough —<br />“They’ll do quite well, for, after all, soup’s thin and sloppy stuff.<br /><br /> “For fish, old Izaak Walton; and to serve as an entrée,<br />I think some fixed-up morsel, say from James, or from Daudet;<br />The roast will be Charles Kingsley — there’s a deal of beef in him.<br />For sherbet, T. B. Aldrich is just suited to my whim.<br /><br />“For game I’ll have Boccaccio — he’s quite the proper one;<br />He certainly is gamey, and a trifle underdone;<br />And for the salad, Addison, so fresh and crisp is he,<br />With just a touch of Pope to give a tang to him, you see.<br /><br />“And then for cheese, Max Nordau, for I think you’ll find right there<br />Some things as strong and mushy as the best of Camembert;<br />And for dessert let Thackeray and O. Khayyám be brought,<br />The which completes a dinner of most wondrous richness fraught.<br /><br /> “For olives and for almonds we can take the jokes of Punch —<br />They’re good enough for us, I think, to casually munch;<br />And through it all we’ll quaff the wines that flow forever clear<br />From Avon’s vineyards in the heart of Will of Warwickshire.”’<br /><br />From...Cobwebs from a library corner (1899) gutenberg.<br /><br />Thats all folks........Hope to see you again soon.....Stay warm and Stay Happy..!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhORxxN7Yhw_X4dRgAkKfSQoZXq4V6k7sGko4yLL8btXcx9aRB6CYXZbgMjBPbLmXarXSYAEWe_i_2Q5ZLMn6OrAqoMb-OaSyhvHh63m7z3iFlipv0Cl9P04SvYWWyZc7jneZWSI8eaHNc/s1600/birds-top-hat.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhORxxN7Yhw_X4dRgAkKfSQoZXq4V6k7sGko4yLL8btXcx9aRB6CYXZbgMjBPbLmXarXSYAEWe_i_2Q5ZLMn6OrAqoMb-OaSyhvHh63m7z3iFlipv0Cl9P04SvYWWyZc7jneZWSI8eaHNc/s320/birds-top-hat.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554951702618654370" /></a><br /><br />Art-Pic nr 4 `Scott Gustafson.Town mouse and Country mouse.The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-87554108400094107912010-08-25T18:27:00.009+02:002010-08-25T19:04:54.087+02:00Under the Lilac bush...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4MoPsf7GACB7R8FBzzzvc00ROB5Ol5D8jg3xdXwL4LOAlk-qtZQcD6TLwm7NrJPgVSVL90qiSd9b9U9Nj5Axf218EqIJH92fyPAo8V4reaULa65mm1yrwnOZg-6Uub2YPAnBwfD20fZg/s1600/Foto0695.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4MoPsf7GACB7R8FBzzzvc00ROB5Ol5D8jg3xdXwL4LOAlk-qtZQcD6TLwm7NrJPgVSVL90qiSd9b9U9Nj5Axf218EqIJH92fyPAo8V4reaULa65mm1yrwnOZg-6Uub2YPAnBwfD20fZg/s320/Foto0695.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455162990559252738" /></a><br />Today,Spring cleaning began at Hilltop Hall,always a wonderful way to greet the new season...<br />Miss Moussie and the Dutchess were very busy. Together cleaning out the wardrobe! <br /> <br /> The Dutchess is standing before a mirror,holding up a dress...<br /> <br />-What do you think dearest..can I still wear this ,or is it to old fashion...<br />-Now let me see..squeaked Miss Moussie...crawling out of a shoebox....o,but that's a lovely dress my dear..Pink roses..very romantic..if you don't want it anymore..could you consider giving it to me...If I alter it I can make ten dresses,curtains,and what ever more I can think of ....<br />-Then consider it yours dearest...shall I deliver it at you birds nest later...<br />-No need ..squeaked Miss Moussie...I will cut of a sleeve to begin with and then come back later for the rest!<br />-Good idea...said the Dutchess...let me get the scissors for you...<br />-This is great..twittered Miss Moussie...I can also make bedsheets and tablecloths for my swap shop..<br /> <br />And whilst the Dutchess and the moussie are busy...there's a soft polite knock on the bedroom door...and a croaky voice asking...'So sorry to disturb your ladyships in the midst of your spring cleaning...but do you have a minute...'<br /> <br />Surtenly ,said the Dutchess, opening the door...come in Gustave...but please don't look at the mess..O ,I see you brought with you some company....and before she could say anything more...the secret Alphabet tumbled in....whirling words..like..HI..and O MY..WHAT..A..MES...<br />-Sure its a mess..twittered Miss Moussie disturbed...you can not clean something that wasn't a mess before you went and cleaned it..to clean without a mess could be very suspicious...I believe THEN one is hiding something..like sweeping things under the carpet..<br />Both The Dutchess and Gustave looked at Miss Moussie...a bit puzzled...what did she just say...<br />Well....croaked Gustave,I believe a mess is just a mess...and it never bothers me...you should see the bottom of my Pond..But, dear lady's, I came to see you to ask you some advise about my..and there he paused for a while to let the alphabet whirl the word..... MENU!<br />-What menu Gustave, twittered Miss Moussie curious...did you invent a new recipe?<br />-I am always inventing new recipes, answered Gustave ,and you are very welcome to try them in my restaurant when it opens...I hope many friends will visit and that's why I am going to ask the help of the alphabet..<br />-I don't think the alphabet can cook old friend...do you think this a wise thing to do...It could get a bit chaotic in your kitchen,said the Dutchess a little bit worried.<br />-O, but they are not going to cook...they are going to help me serve,croaked Gustave...on the terrace under the lilac bush..and they are going to spell what's on the menu every day..like a flying menu card whirling through the woodlands..<br />-Interesting thought dear Gustave, squeaked Miss Moussie ,but then you have to do a lot of creative inventing...the alphabet can not spell everything you know..for instance they can't spell...pancakes...<br /> <br />There, the X from the alphabet swooped down and tapped Miss Moussie on the head...followed by the word PLANE..<br />-Careful ,squeaked Miss Moussie..I didn't want to offend you but hee..HOW are you going to spell pancakes.. its one of Gustave specialties..<br /> <br />Then the alphabet whirled through the bedroom faster and faster..and formed the words one by one...CAKE..FROM..THE..PAN....TODAY..<br /> <br />Oke Oke...twittered Miss Moussie now laughing..I think you can do the job...<br />-Yes, said the Dutches with a smile on her face..I am looking forward sitting with you under the Lilac bush...I wish you lots of luck with your restaurant Gustave<br />....and please take good care of the alphabet for me...they haven't been out for a while...<br /> <br />-Don't worry my lady..croaked Gustave...everything will be ..and above his head the alphabet whirled......OKE..<br /> <br />Gustave went back to his under water home...followed by the secret alphabet...<br />The Dutchess and Miss Moussie looked out of the bedroom window and saw the letters whirl the word CHERIO...just before they took a dive ..one by one..into the water..disappearing in the Pond..<br /> <br />O Dear..squeaked Miss Moussie I hope they can swim....<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXG-BuKUCLUWrYdJO0elf5LUqReicPuZ8qcYHCngDfUGjIOkp6vkG9hLDyJySMJROlgc8R0yspnLZaSmcKrplOesY3dPluCIUEbI-CgVcbHSLAXsynLI7kTjmP43RKAXPJYwM0G9q-qcw/s1600/Foto0739.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXG-BuKUCLUWrYdJO0elf5LUqReicPuZ8qcYHCngDfUGjIOkp6vkG9hLDyJySMJROlgc8R0yspnLZaSmcKrplOesY3dPluCIUEbI-CgVcbHSLAXsynLI7kTjmP43RKAXPJYwM0G9q-qcw/s400/Foto0739.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461570292608867138" /></a><br /><br />Its still very early when Gustave, with a big leap, pops out of the pond ... he's not alone. Behind him whirls he alphabeth .. one by one the letters jump in the grass and they form the word ...'quiet' ..<br />-Yes my friends,croaks Gustave .. we must be very quiet, everyone is still asleep ... Let us first go look for Mozes, he has the key to the tool shed ,there we can find all the stuff we need ..<br />-Nails... plaster, boards, thermos,tea .. whirls the alpabeth ..<br />-Certainly, quacks Gustave .. but most importantly, we need a building plan ..... and a strong man like Mozes!<br />-We strong, whirls the alphabet ..VERY...<br />-I know ,quacks Gustave .. and I am sure that together we can build something nice ..<br />Wait ..I will take down a few boards on the way.. ..and Gustave bends over to lift some wooden boards..<br />Suddenly, there's a little squeaky sound from under the lilac bush....<br />In panic the alphabeth whirls the word..'DUCK'...because they see who's appearing from down under..<br /><br />Miss Moussie ,because that who it is...sees the letters and reads...DUCK!<br /><br />- 'Duck'..she twitters..'where'..and she looks around..'where'?<br />At that moment exactly, Gustave, with on his shoulders the wooden boards..turns around and.....<br /><br />-O,M,G,..whirls the alphabeth..<br /><br />- 'Duck'..squeakes Miss Moussie ..now laying on the ground looking up..'you mean little birdies'..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpWFxrZFIzYIhYxBWkqN0jVJ62wMoqlMPsAkkCGZonC_vKVPztKDNgHz8gHtsWbbbsjoMsf68_ZbXqTtqb5TPsQMvuuum2f-YQpKjmAG0_oti7GvCHg0jWQEj0HGot5za1AO2y-okOh4k/s1600/Foto0748.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpWFxrZFIzYIhYxBWkqN0jVJ62wMoqlMPsAkkCGZonC_vKVPztKDNgHz8gHtsWbbbsjoMsf68_ZbXqTtqb5TPsQMvuuum2f-YQpKjmAG0_oti7GvCHg0jWQEj0HGot5za1AO2y-okOh4k/s400/Foto0748.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462113724413981970" /></a><br /><br />Great view...said Miss Moussie..recovering from shock and sitting together with the Dutchess at the window from the Hilltop Hall Library..<br />The Library is a very quiet place...Miss Moussie loves it there...so,after her encounter with the wooden boards Gustave moved so elegantly..she asked to be carried upstairs to rest for a while..Now,she is resting comfortably on the chaise longue, enjoying the view..<br />She is watching the little ones paint the garden in pink and white...<br />-AAh,she sighs..so lovely...and then carefully checks her head...Marvelous,she squeaks..a bump!<br /><br />There is a soft polite knock on the library door...<br />-Enter...says the Dutchess whilst pouring a cup of tea for Miss Moussie..enter..<br />Very slowly the door opens...<br />-Anybody there...asks the Dutchess..<br />Then a flower enters the room...a Daisy...attached to a long dangly arm..and this arm belongs to..Gustave..who, very shy, steps in..croaking..."I came to offer my sincere apologies..I am soooooo sorry...may I offer you this very special flower..its our first Spring Daisy from this year". Then he hops over to Miss Moussie..grabs her little hand and kisses it..<br />-O Goodness Gustave..twitters Miss Moussie..you are such a gentleman...thank you..I'm feeling better already..<br />-My dearest Miss...croaks Gustave with a lump in his throat .....When I saw you laying there my heart stopped..Good thing Mozes was there to carry you into the house..<br />-I will be fine dear Gustave...but please promise to be very careful in the future....there must be no more accidents while you are building your restaurant..you do have a solid building plan I hope..<br />Gustave stands there...looking at his feet..fumbling his tie...and then mumbles something like...'sure'..<br />-What did you just say...twitters miss Moussie..do I suspect some doubts...Please explain..speak up...I find mumbling to be very suspicious..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOEV-tOQzH8K-ckKx0VskpH-hUELSdwLpX03OvzDzz9hreZXiQxTB2QmLdoxi7xaTeVEEnhqEi1zntCmZrs1lfTID4Z4FLBpHa3Vwf6n4hLJobPbTkoC35kcmt7ZkkJwX7rR2cPXXDVQA/s1600/Foto0938.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOEV-tOQzH8K-ckKx0VskpH-hUELSdwLpX03OvzDzz9hreZXiQxTB2QmLdoxi7xaTeVEEnhqEi1zntCmZrs1lfTID4Z4FLBpHa3Vwf6n4hLJobPbTkoC35kcmt7ZkkJwX7rR2cPXXDVQA/s400/Foto0938.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474201128255381666" /></a><br />A few weeks later..to be exact yesterday,our dear Dutchess together with Miss Moussie walked the Hilltop grounds....checking the garden.<br /><br />- So,my dear Miss Moussie, you tell me everything went well,..all was well on the Hilltop when I was gone..?<br />-Sure..nothing special happened. Mozes took great care of things..he watched the garden gate like a hawk and that's very special him being a bear..He even sat on the rooftop for a while..The only strange trespasser was a dog..!<br />-A dog..what kind of dog and what was he doing here..<br />-A itty bitty dog...with an attitude.. He came to visit the Queen..told him this was the wrong adress..but he didn't want to believe it at first..<br />-The Queen..? In our garden..<br />-Yes,..he was just a bit confused...we showed him where to go...and guess what, a few days later we saw him in the newspaper..sitting next to the queen at the Queens ball on Queens day..<br />-Are you kidding me dear Miss Moussie ..I could swear you are making this story up this minute while we are walking..<br />-O,No..this really happened..twittered miss Moussie bending over to a inspect a daisy...<br /><br />Then, abruptly, the Dutchess stopped in her tracks...<br /><br />-What's THAT...she said surprised....but that...that's MY DRESS..hanging in the Lilac bush..!<br />-O yes..that..twittered Miss Moussie..I was going to mention that to you..didn't get the chance yet..Its the construction ground..<br />-Well,my dresses are called many things ,from sweet to stunning...but never to be a construction ground dearest...<br />-Its that old fashion thing..you know ..the one I could have because you didn't want to wear it anymore..so..Gustave borrowed it from me to hide his construction..<br />-You mean that behind this dress he is building his restaurant...How marvellous..When can we see it..<br /><br />Then a little croaky voice from behind the dress quacked..."SOON MY DEAR..VERY SOON...but until then"...and there came some letters from the alphabet whirling through the Lilacs.."SKUDATLE"....GO UWAY..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4arJq2sLvu4e2GTJQLxn8wY59fkgMNRZ2to82ghvoVjZlXvC9OhaWRDakWpUAU-d3Z40D8Oc65iRs8eRPqU4gtJx1a0vqVrxbwcAXQqV1Aa3hFy4mEwNvlJrqqRXjFJ9uhDbR6ZXPdQ/s1600/Foto0944.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4arJq2sLvu4e2GTJQLxn8wY59fkgMNRZ2to82ghvoVjZlXvC9OhaWRDakWpUAU-d3Z40D8Oc65iRs8eRPqU4gtJx1a0vqVrxbwcAXQqV1Aa3hFy4mEwNvlJrqqRXjFJ9uhDbR6ZXPdQ/s400/Foto0944.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474845557862982562" /></a><br />It was the middle of the night..a lovely clear spring night...the garden looked enchanted in the light of many stars shining bright..Not a leave was stirring..there was no wind.The night air was filled with the smell of sweet Lilacs and Lillie's.<br /> <br />The Dutchess was about to go to bed ,when,just before closing her bedroom curtains, she saw a shadow ..The shadow stood under the Lilac bush and it made a funny noise...The Dutchess tried to get a better look but unfortunately her dress...still hanging there in the bushes, blocked her view. Then she understood what was responsible for the shadow...the DRESS made the shadow...but dresses don't go and make strange noises in the middle of the night now do they..?<br />THERE..A light went on..a light behind the dress...this was interesting...now the dress looked like a little theatre where any moment now the curtain could go up..but still there was this funny noise...it sounded like something was boiling or simmering on a crackling fire....Now the light behind the dress became very intense..and, O my goodness..there was smoke coming out of the sleeves...The Dutchess flung her window open wide and yelled ..'Everybody ...wake up wake up ...FIRE FIRE.....',and then ran down the stairs into the garden..<br /><br />Within seconds all the little woodland creatures were in a state of panic...<br />Miss Moussie came running ....in her hands a glass of water...she was in her night gown squeaking 'where, where...?'<br />Mr C popt out from a hole in the ground carrying a handbook..a manual for "what to do in case of fire..."<br />There was Sir Horatio....he was just running hither and thither not knowing where to run first..<br />Elvira came jumping from her nest in the chestnut tree...in her arm the first aid kit..<br />Beau had stormed out of the cuckoo clock...screaming..'Out of my way, out of my way...I'll save the Lilac bush...'He was followed by Bell who chimed with an alarm bell ..'...FIRE FIRE in the Lilacs..everybody, where is Gustave....?'<br />-O My goodness..twittered Miss Moussie...still holding her glass of water...'we lost Gustave..he must be behind this dress..caught in the fire..'<br /><br />Then...thank heavens...Mozes appeared....pulling behind him the garden hose. <br />-Stand clear, he shouted ...its going to be wet...and with a big fountain of water..he was able to put the fire out....<br /><br />Silence....<br />-Shall I ggo and ttake a look behind the curtain..eh I mmean dress.....to see what happened there.....stammered Mr C...<br />-I'll go said Horatio .....and he was about to lift up the dress WHEN......Gustave crawled out from under it...followed by the letters of the alfabeth who spelled...SOAKED..<br /><br />-GUSTAVE...there you are..we were ever so worried..squeaked Miss Moussie with a squeak of relieve...are you oke..do you need a sip of water..<br /><br />Gustave stood there..dripping wet...<br />-No thank you..he said..I'm fine...but I'm afraid the pies aren't...look there they go..<br />There..our garden troupe saw ..drifting down a stream, which created by the water from the hose...three..four..five ..pies...sailing down the garden path...<br /><br />-O my goodness Gustave, said the Dutches..I believe I must apologise...I thought there was a fire..<br />-I was just baking you all some pies ...for the grand opening ....said Gustave..and he had to clear his throat...<br />Now everybody looked devastated...sure..they were very relieved nothing had happened to Gustave but then again something DID happen to Gustave..so what to do next..<br /><br />-I will help you bake dearest Gustave..and you can use my kitchen, said the Dutchess...we will start bright and early tomorrow..<br />-I'll help too,twittered Miss Moussie..I am very good in times of crisis..<br />-We wwill all help..stammered Mr C..I will read the recipe's..aloud..<br />-And I will bring all the nuts you need, said Elvira..I have a big pile stashed away..<br /><br />After they had calmed down, and plans were made for the next day..all the little creatures returned to there nests...PHEW...all is well what ends well..but this story continuous ..so don't miss the grand finale..<br /><br />In a few day Gustave WILL open his restaurant and you are all kindly invited..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JvquLUZwOweRJuo2n3L44BfQ-4hhdI3YjiPokGjVv5K8BiYch9CfHTTOryN1AXvwBXYMUM2P8oaMMTWYUzuuK_jKBth2vri5T98sqmTvNrkBoFHzXc9A5bDN6XJHYTKaPqp6FEpEbGo/s1600/Foto0952.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JvquLUZwOweRJuo2n3L44BfQ-4hhdI3YjiPokGjVv5K8BiYch9CfHTTOryN1AXvwBXYMUM2P8oaMMTWYUzuuK_jKBth2vri5T98sqmTvNrkBoFHzXc9A5bDN6XJHYTKaPqp6FEpEbGo/s400/Foto0952.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477106074126661234" /></a><br />The crack of dawn....a few early birds were singing in the tree tops,and Miss Moussie was banging on the kitchen door...<br /><br />-Hello there..wake up...its time to bake some pies..she twittered very loud..<br />Nobody answered..<br />-Hello, anybody..there's no time to loose...we have to hurry..twittered Miss Moussie impatiently...please open up the door.<br />Still...no answer..<br />-Well, squeaked Miss Moussie..where is everybody..I am sure they told me to be here bright and early..Then, she decided to knock again...or..wait a minute...she could just could go in..through the crack in the wall...and enter from under the doormat..<br />And that's just what she did....on her tippie toes...<br /><br />It was still very dark in the kitchen..nobody was there...<br />Miss Moussie opened the cupboards in search for pie ingredients....turned on the oven..and then made herself a cup of tea..<br />-O My..she twittered...how sleepy I am..maybe I will take a nap for a minute or two..I am sure it won't be long for my friends to arrive...Then ,she curled up in the Dutchess her favourite teacup,and with her little head resting on a teabag...she was of to to dreamland in a jiffy..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPMAqcwnjlymB0gGZ38XBNmCJRqOD3KR7D4bGLrn63B9JcglXt8BRZ0u7r3viKoHaX81ukjU2suH5gawdt5RZtYHMcTpH1w8uQi61Stu9WZGZL80U6v_SNr4ZJ1Vf6yEhw0SH-bkCYHo/s1600/Foto0991.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPMAqcwnjlymB0gGZ38XBNmCJRqOD3KR7D4bGLrn63B9JcglXt8BRZ0u7r3viKoHaX81ukjU2suH5gawdt5RZtYHMcTpH1w8uQi61Stu9WZGZL80U6v_SNr4ZJ1Vf6yEhw0SH-bkCYHo/s400/Foto0991.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480388723300182050" /></a><br />Because of the baking accident in the middle of the night a week ago..and because of the very very very VERY long baking day in the Hilltop Hall kitchen..(which was a success by the way)..Gustave almost forgot about sending the invitations..<br /><br />There's only one person who delivers mail on the Hilltop..and that's Lingering Liam...<br />He is very nice...very kind hearted..he's a snail with curious ever searching eyes..a happy smile ,AND a big moustache.<br />Dear Liam is getting older,its getting harder and harder for him to work the snail mail trail... and for that reason the mail Liam delivers often lingers..It will get there..eventually ..but...you have to be patient..<br /><br />So..You,being a Very Important Person and friend..are invited to the grand opening of Gustave's restaurant...<br />Be there...Saturday at dusk..there will be dinner and a show..if at any reason Lingering Liam lingered long ,too long..and the mail didn't reach you on time..please print this Very Important Post.and you'll be fine..<br />See you there....<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSQSnIYE8clTvxfOZGrtf_ByrH-TvbCyabUIK38xtASg1euu2a7CNzyW7zDKFPh7RDdrkyLI3FE6omXQWGzsSoySRwdGiFS4mH9GlyFT__S-tRrfd822nEU_X4rdb6zxOt8ZAagmc9y5Y/s1600/kids2369.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 316px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSQSnIYE8clTvxfOZGrtf_ByrH-TvbCyabUIK38xtASg1euu2a7CNzyW7zDKFPh7RDdrkyLI3FE6omXQWGzsSoySRwdGiFS4mH9GlyFT__S-tRrfd822nEU_X4rdb6zxOt8ZAagmc9y5Y/s400/kids2369.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481455745847382466" /></a><br /> <br />Welcome welcome my dearest friend..I am so happy to see you, welcome to a very fairy garden..We are going to have such a wonderful time together..<br />Grab yourself a little lantern,and follow ME..Miss Moussie ...your host for this evening.<br />Darlings..soon the sun will disappear behind the trees and darkness will fall..let the little lights from the fireflies guide us to a very enchanting place in our garden...a place where tonight a dream will come true..a place we call..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJeEz5Z4oMBZhqCYgSDGhK_DKWYNRn_Xil3wkVVnMq9gTLGAYl3RKQ2ZS2HuDbL1UzSFdib6Bx-DxfkCd0CEWc4WmeFgqja1mOZ82LOWVvmUPMRVuBueGYLpMkpLkOnVIrpvKe-FAy4Q/s1600/fireflies-60pct.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJeEz5Z4oMBZhqCYgSDGhK_DKWYNRn_Xil3wkVVnMq9gTLGAYl3RKQ2ZS2HuDbL1UzSFdib6Bx-DxfkCd0CEWc4WmeFgqja1mOZ82LOWVvmUPMRVuBueGYLpMkpLkOnVIrpvKe-FAy4Q/s400/fireflies-60pct.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481525157405944610" /></a><br /><br />'Under the Lilac bush'..a wonderful sight awaits your eyes, and some magical food awaits your senses..<br /><br />When we walk along the garden path we can see the pond..doesn't it look romantic with all the fairy lights floating on the water..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0AS2hn7GGBfmsdDsHaoPh3RCJzURH9b09Iv0ThXcN3RtLlGNP310gLcKvWFvMxIdmki1GxYXjqfME1LM3NKr-qfC_Qf_VS0TM0IYaOY9OifJ2uETif5Bq9PiUjaqvnYeWiJc1VmkMjHQ/s1600/FloatingLanterns.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0AS2hn7GGBfmsdDsHaoPh3RCJzURH9b09Iv0ThXcN3RtLlGNP310gLcKvWFvMxIdmki1GxYXjqfME1LM3NKr-qfC_Qf_VS0TM0IYaOY9OifJ2uETif5Bq9PiUjaqvnYeWiJc1VmkMjHQ/s400/FloatingLanterns.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481526604435245986" /></a><br /><br />And there..next to the pond we are going to make a stop....Why, you ask..well,because of the surprise...didn't we promise you dinner and a show..Then,to start this wonderful event.....let the show begin...<br /><br />A sweet little fairy will now dance for you...in the daisy meadow..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXbHZ1sqW5C755_39tzjGl5R60icddqouGhBqHlgN3GHHDqoTu4-HYsTXc4EJckU9GWUKqu4X2oRGXwV-oJwHPVagH5h5mqowBD3oh-55LBwRb2eZJ7f0ZkSqeDaRcIvpg_2iqgOeHOIw/s1600/PCFlowerBallet+molly+brett.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 336px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXbHZ1sqW5C755_39tzjGl5R60icddqouGhBqHlgN3GHHDqoTu4-HYsTXc4EJckU9GWUKqu4X2oRGXwV-oJwHPVagH5h5mqowBD3oh-55LBwRb2eZJ7f0ZkSqeDaRcIvpg_2iqgOeHOIw/s400/PCFlowerBallet+molly+brett.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481528482221172178" /></a><br /><br />Isn't that dreamy....I heard from Mr C this dancing fairy is famous around the globe...Her name is Margot Fountain..and she lives near a big fountain in a place called..Les Tuileries..in Paris..We are ever so proud to have her here this evening..She is Mr C's quest..and later this evening she will accompany him to the grand opening of Gustave's restaurant..<br /><br />Come my friends..let us go to the Lilac bush and see whats happening...<br /><br />Look,Mozes and Sir H Hog are waiting for us....<br />O dear....I believe they are going to celebrate the opening with FIRE WORKS...O my Goodness...I find fire works to be very suspicious..you never know if there will be a bang.....I makes me very nervous..forgive me if I, for a minute or two, stick my fingers in my ears....and close my eyes..just give me a squeeze when its all over..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIt1YS8wI0FvoLGiJNcE6FaPKaZcV1wrJN__ITKUrUtUbHsS8OWyLKcPo5pCeumKE9AYTlfHbf6xYD12Nor46_bLpTEk7NFQtwKhcCuK459dL-QFaJnWwceCbQyS3mJjnJqlp3TwYU6hI/s1600/502-Firework.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 232px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIt1YS8wI0FvoLGiJNcE6FaPKaZcV1wrJN__ITKUrUtUbHsS8OWyLKcPo5pCeumKE9AYTlfHbf6xYD12Nor46_bLpTEk7NFQtwKhcCuK459dL-QFaJnWwceCbQyS3mJjnJqlp3TwYU6hI/s400/502-Firework.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481531216596349858" /></a><br /><br /><br />-Is it over yet..was it beautiful...colourful....loud...? It was !..Then we can now wait for Gustave to appear..<br />He told me he would come with a big scissor and cut this pretty pink ribbon that's dangling from the dutchess her dress...yes..the dress still hanging in the lilac bush. At the very moment when the ribbon is cut..the dress will fall...and all will be revealed..<br /><br />Aha,there is our favourite gourmet frog......GUSTAVE..DARLING...This is it..the moment we have all been waiting for..tell me ...How are you feeling..<br /> <br />-I'm feeling very proud my dear Miss M..very proud..<br />Everybody...beloved friends and dear woodland creatures...come gather around me...In a moment you will see before your eyes my new and magnificent restaurant..I wish you all welcome and I hope that in the future we will spend many happy ours in this Lilac place....And of course...I hope you will enjoy my FOOD...Let me hand you over the Menu card...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDhKIN0RnUIDGkq7jSDdE1x9BHfVe_PG7B51DPlFhD-rWIX3FmYOqTHcQYLVoOf5rYZ964N0gdwBcqHg1bQgFc1Skz9J-3tCaE4wuWD4PkjU8i022JGXmlwDCDWEvcRm_-_gKHAorw2M8/s1600/206024_sp1c.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 280px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDhKIN0RnUIDGkq7jSDdE1x9BHfVe_PG7B51DPlFhD-rWIX3FmYOqTHcQYLVoOf5rYZ964N0gdwBcqHg1bQgFc1Skz9J-3tCaE4wuWD4PkjU8i022JGXmlwDCDWEvcRm_-_gKHAorw2M8/s400/206024_sp1c.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481552981260102194" /></a><br />As you will notice the card is blanc....because this time the letters didn't want to appear on paper but ..IN THE AIR...<br />Lady's and Gentleman..I present to you the most amazing menu card EVER in history..THE SECRET ALPHABET!<br />Like butterflies...no...like bats...the letters came swiftly swirling through the tree top..they made circles in the air...swooped down an flew back up again,whilst they were spelling ..Bonjur..Bon Apeti...<br /><br /> Then, Gustave walked slowly and with a very serious look upon his frog face towards the Lilac bush.....there .....he cuts the pink ribbon....whilst speaking the historical words....'I declare my restaurant Under The Lilac bush..opened!!!!<br /><br />The dress dropped....and what we see there dear friends is beyond words....This is not just a little restaurant ..its a DREAM...Gustave's dream..and how very happy we are for him that his dream came true...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4u0_UwjO7agLRqEO7mHeKosuE9CjYP-M3hLiR4p0rN6IoBvsJkB1oEQ68kwzGJljbcahd1CT0JScKsIUPudC9tRg1Inq8oPnOnxeIihyphenhyphenrrPA2JSbhWvwYYbwG5aDfUtNu8OMs_9Ij5wY/s1600/Foto0993.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4u0_UwjO7agLRqEO7mHeKosuE9CjYP-M3hLiR4p0rN6IoBvsJkB1oEQ68kwzGJljbcahd1CT0JScKsIUPudC9tRg1Inq8oPnOnxeIihyphenhyphenrrPA2JSbhWvwYYbwG5aDfUtNu8OMs_9Ij5wY/s400/Foto0993.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481555865225335442" /></a><br /><br />And now.....LETS EAT...The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-47586753685652343842010-03-17T11:52:00.006+01:002010-03-17T11:55:19.805+01:00The secret ingredient..<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL1LAExef3ZuNLi06bsDI3dkVOq4KmPH5HLgAS4-v5zZH5jIA1Dzabek8hjAkfcNv03c4wzXINNhyQYQo0pL34ciQ2q9NTmdZVIpz6keCfOnXNDKUE0ewyNWAK-_l6AgtmTkItdw3WfnQ/s1600-h/Foto0637.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL1LAExef3ZuNLi06bsDI3dkVOq4KmPH5HLgAS4-v5zZH5jIA1Dzabek8hjAkfcNv03c4wzXINNhyQYQo0pL34ciQ2q9NTmdZVIpz6keCfOnXNDKUE0ewyNWAK-_l6AgtmTkItdw3WfnQ/s400/Foto0637.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440707193215019522" /></a><br />Secret ingredient<br /> <br />Like a regular Sherlock Holmes Miss Moussie searched the Hilltop grounds...she wanted to be sure everything was alright...Brrrr,she was shivering in her coat....how she longed for spring...<br />'I am sure Mozes took good care of everything', she mumbled to herself..'but to be on the safe side better check everything twice!' As far as she could see,with the help of a magnifying glass and a binocular,there were no strange tress passers or peculiar creatures in the garden..all was well,and very quiet.<br />There she saw Mozes sitting on the garden bench under the lilac bush...<br />'Look at my dear friend', she whispered...'How I wish I could be more like Mozes...big..and strong..he looks ever so confident..never nervous and so at peace with himself...I am but a little silly creature next to him..but I am so proud to call him my friend..I feel very safe when he is near..I think I will go and sit with him for a while...'<br />Whilst putting her spy equipment away in her purse she started walking toward Mozes..<br /><br />Aha...said Mozes to himself....I spy a little spying moussie...and he smiled.<br />Seeing Miss Moussie always made him very happy....<br />Will you look at that, he mumbled....such a brave little miss...always cheerful...always feeling responsible...always wanting to help her friends....How he wanted to look like her sometimes...when he was about to lose faith in the world and the creatures living on it...when he went traveling to get away from it all....how grateful he was to call this little moussie his friend..When he was with her all was well with the world..Ahaa,she came his way...how wonderful..he hoped she would come and sit next to him him for a while..<br /><br />Standing before Mozes Miss Moussie looked him in the eye....Mozes gave her a wink...Miss Moussie giggled....she then hopped on the bench and placed herself next to Mozes....They didn't have to speak....their friendship had a secret ingredient....it didn't need words...<br /><br />They both gazed over the Hilltop...the place so very dear to them, and there they saw Gustave....hopping along....with something in his arms....it looked like a jar.<br />"Hmm...Maybe marmelade...whispered Miss Moussie..<br />Hmm..Could be honey..mumbled Mozes..<br />Mozes and Miss Moussie now were thinking the same thing....how they loved Gustave..for his love for food...and for his love for life..a very pasionate little fellow their friend Gustave..<br /><br />Gustave..hopping merely on his way to Hilltop Hall, spotted Mozes and Miss Moussie sitting there...looking at him..<br />Yes,he croaked to himself....I see you my friends..but I can't wave...have to deliver something very special...have to be very careful not to drop it....<br />Would you look at them sitting there together....his best friends..he was ever so proud to call them his friends. A strange thing this was, Friendship..if you try to explane it you are always short on words.....How he admired Mozes...if only he could be so courageous...there were days when he wouldn't mind to be a big strong bear...it would also come in handy when he went on his shopping trip to the bees...<br />And there..the lovely lovely Miss Moussie....now..he didn't want to be anything like Miss Moussie..no...the only thing he wanted was to take care of her..to be sure nothing harm full could ever happen...he wanted to pick her big bouquets of spring flowers and bake her the biggest sweetest pies you ever did see..and he wanted to sing serenades...yes Like Mozes..because Mozes can sing like Caruso...To sing like Mozes that would he great...then he would serenade miss Moussie every day...<br /><br />Gustave arrived at Hilltop Hall....standing at the kitchen door he gave a loud croaky call......<br />"There you are Gustave....said the Dutchess...whilst opening the door....'so good to see you...and I see you carry a jar my friend...whats in it...?<br />"This my dear lady,croaked Gustave..'this... is a secret ingredient...cant tell you more...trust me on this one....we just have to stirr it through the soup.....'<br /><br />The Dutchess was about to go and say something to Gustave when suddenly in the kitchen..from the clock...a very loud Belle chimed .......SUPPER......<br /><br />My goodness..twittered Miss Moussie....I believe we are invited in for dinner ....come my friend..it will be so good to see the Dutchess again... we can go tell her all is well in the garden..<br /><br />Shall we follow dear reader and friend...because.. I don't know about you ,but I am very curious to know what it is ....that secret ingredient....Would you care for a nice bowl of soup..my dear.....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQjbnv8jv4c0wDKmU4rLxrvkxHnUxZsdbHsuzGWDhVixoBo9bOQ8kKzRRXWo9vWS2in2lRusXhgg2c_F9GokJmmXxeAQTEfkY6ylgdD-hqX2q3ahX8xRQQgy-6w_D7QCRRR_aGNwE_LA/s1600-h/Foto0650.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQjbnv8jv4c0wDKmU4rLxrvkxHnUxZsdbHsuzGWDhVixoBo9bOQ8kKzRRXWo9vWS2in2lRusXhgg2c_F9GokJmmXxeAQTEfkY6ylgdD-hqX2q3ahX8xRQQgy-6w_D7QCRRR_aGNwE_LA/s320/Foto0650.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445516671561938322" /></a><br /> There are days when even the large kitchen table in Hilltop Hall is too small for all the woodland creatures that visit. Today was such a day. <br /> Everyone was eager to be allowed inside. ...<br /> Gustave was already busy in the kitchen .. stirring the secret ingredient through the soup.... <br /><br />HMMM, he mumbled ... that's going to be a great soup if I say so myself .. he gently stuck one frog finger in the soup and tasted to be sure ... Hmmm ... he smacked ... nice! <br /> Suddenly the kitchen door swung open .... Mr. C fell in. ... He's usually in front of each row!<br /> Because of his bad eye sight he isn't always sure in which row he really is ...this is tricky,it wouldn't be the first time he fell in to the wrong house ,but this time, Mr. C came to the right place at the right time and he fell with his nose on the right doormat .. <br /> Dear C quacked Gustave ... there you are..how nice of you to invade the kitchen so unexpectedly .. did you smell the soup .. ?<br /><br /> I did I did..replied C, as he rose and picked up his glasses.... you can smell it from afar friend Gustave .. <br /><br />Behind Mr C the head of Sir Horatio Hog appeared.... quite shocked by the collapse of C....it made all his quills stand up ... he looked very dangerous and grumbled ... 'C ....Why is it never possible for you to enter a door a civilised way..?'<br />' Oh my dear friend Horatio', quacked Gustave ...'look at yourself.. we'd better stay away from you ... you're very prickly today ...be careful...you might hurt somebody..!' <br />Mr. C didn't pay any attention to Sir Hog...merrily he shuffled through the kitchen ... bumping against a table leg and then searching his way to the nearest chair .... Sir Horatio followed at a safe distance while he tried to get his spines in order again.... <br /><br />Then..a large shadow fell on the doormat...... Mozes entered ,wearing a big smile on his bear face ...' Ahaa', he muttered ... 'soup' .. From the doormat a small echo squeaked... 'Ahaa .. soup' ... Where did this funny twitter come from... well, look who we have here.... the one and only Miss Moussie .. <br /><br />'Hello Gustave', twittered Miss M...'so good to see you, and, dearest,the soup..really.. when it will taste as good as it smells... it must be..marvellous.. <br />My sweet little Miss ..quacked Gustave, this soup is made with love ....quickly, lets go go and eat.. .. <br />It took a while before everyone was seated..... Elvira was hopping form one chair to another.. eventually she stayed sitting on the table next to the soup ..... And then there was <a href="http://thegardenoftheduchess.blogspot.com/2008/11/meet-sybille.html">Sybille.</a> . she was very nervous....magpies and silver cutlery .. not a good combination .. Sir Horatio grumbled ...still some spines were upright..'Sybille ..Why is it never possible for you to sit still....and give me back my spoon..!'<br /> <br />The Dutchess ... who had observed the sweet chaos with pleasure,said..Dear friends ... there we are ...welcome to my kitchen.. I wish you all a wonderful souper ... .. Shall I be mother..dear Gustave ...and serve the soup ?.<br /> <br />Please do.. quacked Gustave ...the honor is all yours...Bon Appetit My Friends....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFShBkJdUxTRxY8Rm9R1jaQnCNSPoZZ6hEo1ag2zTT3q1lds3WL7egcbyzqIHMY530ht6BgJFDoVpWL5KwlNheIIY235KFciCV7uhdK0DQt92HlV9XpPqtoVlUYcG6haY8yTZMklb9O_w/s1600-h/Foto0663.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFShBkJdUxTRxY8Rm9R1jaQnCNSPoZZ6hEo1ag2zTT3q1lds3WL7egcbyzqIHMY530ht6BgJFDoVpWL5KwlNheIIY235KFciCV7uhdK0DQt92HlV9XpPqtoVlUYcG6haY8yTZMklb9O_w/s320/Foto0663.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448537616197801058" /></a><br />You could hear a pin drop in the kitchen where all the woodland creatures cautiously and curious tasted the soup .. <br /> <br />Miss Moussie looked with one eye at Gustave ,she didn't know what to expect from this hot brew.. <br /><br />Hmm, that tasted very nice .. and not at all suspicious ... one never knows what one could taste when something is unknown ..it could be awful .. but THIS was delightful .. She tasted a hint of brandy or liqueur ...... Visions of brushes and mops swept the cobwebs from Miss Moussies mind .. A new spring.. a new beginning, and who knows .. a new adventure. . Miss Moussie was ready ..<br /> <br />Sir Hog ... with haste.. took a big spoonful of soup ...then, with his mouth full ,sat very still .... Hmm ... he closed his eyes …Visions of fields filled with Daisies and Daffodils suddenly tumbled through his head ... sunshine and blue skies ... Hmmmmm, he sighed . ... Aah, that was good...just what he needed,a remedy for prickliness ... A little peace and warmth in a bowl. <br /> <br />Mr. C ,at first, didn’t have any vision at all .. the soup was so hot his glasses fogged.. Hmmm.whispered Mr.C..... who saw his surroundings change into a misty mystical haze ... Hmm, peculiar soup ...it makes one imagine oneself in to higher spheres .. I could swear I am drifting off on a cloud. This soup had a strange effect on him. Visions of paintings and sounds of music floated through his head . 'Wonderful soup, for an artist like me'…mumbled C.<br />Maybe Gustave used some strange mushrooms ..?. <br /> <br />After her first spoonful of soup Elvira got goosebumps ...and that’s very strange for a squirrel. <br />A strange twinkle twinkled from her head to the tip of her tail ... she uttered an elegant little scream ... ..AHMMMhmhmhm.. Visions of tiny squirrels came in to the picture .. A clothesline full of little red squirrel pants flapping in the wind. How could this be..she didn’t tell anyone that a tiny squirrel was on its way.. was it possible that her friends al ready knew. She looked at all the woodland creatures sitting at the table ... But they were all much too busy with their own visions which were clearly to be found at the bottom of their plates …<br /><br />Bell and Beauregard ..sitting very close together ..eating their soup from a thimble ...looked at each other, smiling ... visions of wedding bells and wedding cakes hung between them .. a midsummer wedding night ... how enchanting .. There must be magic in this soup said Bell with a soft voice that sounded like a chappel bell.. <br /><br />The Dutchess ,sitting at the head of the table,took a good look at her quests ...they all had a heavenly look on their face ,... how sweet .. and what a marvelous soup ! ..She dreamed away to summer evenings, visions of happy garden friends, laughing, merrily sharing their dreams ...by the light of fireflies dancing .. <br /><br />After everyone had filled his tummy ... it was time to go home... because, the next day…Monday ..they all had to rise and shine very early..! <br /><br />Gustave stood by the door ... He friendly wished everyone good night .. <br /><br />-Goodnight, friend Horatio .... I see that you have your spines back in order .. sleep well .. <br />-Aah .. Elvira darling .. you look radiant ... you have stars in your eyes ..very promising...tell me your secret.. <br />-Mr. C. ..old chap... watch your step .. your mind seems to be somewhere else ... did you enjoy the soup <br />-Miss Moussie, my sweet ... always a pleasure to have you at my table ... You do not look tired at all ... are you going to start the spring cleaning any time soon ... Let me now if I can be of some assistant .. <br />-Bey now everybody ..... see you tomorrow ... and, with a big sigh, Gustave closed the door. <br /><br />He looked around the kitchen .... goodness,what a mess they made…. <br />'Gustave ...Gustave ...here I am darling ,on top of the cuckoo clock', chimed Bell. 'Thank you for a wonderful evening..we will help you clean up tomorrow.." Bell waved, and then slipped quickly through the clock door. Inside the clock her Beau was waiting... Gustave could hear him say something about,‘a best man’… and then the door closed .. <br /><br />Now, all was very quiet in the kitchen ....Look at the Dutchess …fallen asleep in her chair..resting her head on her arms on the table ,with a smile on her lips. Gustave decided to go and lay next to her…he didn’t want to wake her up…and with his head on the Dutchess’s arm he dozed away quickly .. The last thought he had before he went to dreamland was..a little bit of parsley ,sage, rosemary, and thyme..can create miracles..!The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-21653848573987977602010-01-18T15:26:00.010+01:002010-01-25T23:15:16.509+01:00Unexpected<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiai8obF8fFnDre5-04CtePvKmuvwjr-UuoA-saaEpXLViNJ0kXarKEthI4wIRgAGqp4PZ_hkUuFdxr0TZEQroEtDGQguRsscMpn-QudeTZiO_rtaZd9_PGE1Q3XKJ7BUiup9zuQu76-74/s1600-h/Foto0510.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiai8obF8fFnDre5-04CtePvKmuvwjr-UuoA-saaEpXLViNJ0kXarKEthI4wIRgAGqp4PZ_hkUuFdxr0TZEQroEtDGQguRsscMpn-QudeTZiO_rtaZd9_PGE1Q3XKJ7BUiup9zuQu76-74/s320/Foto0510.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423203471079243218" /></a><br />Miss Moussie and Gustave were sitting in the Kitchen...It was very quiet on Hilltop Hall...The Dutchess was out..all the little creatures were minding there own buisiness,the alphabet safe and sound in the secret drawer,and the Gnome high and dry in the Cuckoo clock..So,nothing to worry about...<br /><br />-'I dont know what it is'...twittered Miss Moussie...'I have this strange feeling inside...like when very unexpected things are about to happen...I don't like unexpected things...they can be very suspecious!'<br />-'Dearest Miss',croaked Gustave...'You worry to much,look ouside..the sun is shining...its a perfect day to go ice skating..come on...my pond is your pond...'<br /><br />It really was a perfect day on the Hilltop...a bleu sky,clear crisp frosty air...and a red and orange sun...shining so bright that it looked like a big ball of fire..<br /><br />In the snow a very beautiful bird was surching for breadcrumbs...he was sure to find them because our Dutchess never forgets to feed the little birdies from Chatter Creek....Today the Red Robin was very lucky to find bits of chocolate chip cookies..<br />Whilst he was nibbeling merrily he heard a voice sounding like a little jingling bell,it said...<br /><br />-Please little Robin...may I nibble with you..cocolate chip cookies are my favorite..<br /><br />The Robin looked up...to see where this little bell came from..and there it was..sitting on top of the bird feeder..an enchanting tiny creature..<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi07GVLDSMyfuK_OiMf1Jv6MwTBrLvKgI5ybE_ALdGB5exKCAJtnj3fzCNzKNX0Vl4HOXjkevl3Q0tK1W1P6sU3efq1ppC5_DGVOVMY1s6BJZHZME2yByL0y13lKpTFNN0BQiYNnA6IjkA/s1600-h/begging_squirrel_in_snow_photo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 221px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi07GVLDSMyfuK_OiMf1Jv6MwTBrLvKgI5ybE_ALdGB5exKCAJtnj3fzCNzKNX0Vl4HOXjkevl3Q0tK1W1P6sU3efq1ppC5_DGVOVMY1s6BJZHZME2yByL0y13lKpTFNN0BQiYNnA6IjkA/s320/begging_squirrel_in_snow_photo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424324447916177906" /></a><br />Elvira takes her job as gate keeper very serious...come snow or come ice she is standing guard!<br />This is why she noticed the Robin talking to a little creature sitting on the bird feeder..Quickly she hurried over there to go see...<br /><br />-'Goodmorning stranger',she asked with a gentle voice..'Who are you and what are you doing on top of the bird feeder..?'<br />-'Waiting to be fed.',jingled a voice sounding like sweet chiming bells ..<br />'I am ever so hungry..'<br />-'Then where is your home',asked Elvira curious,'and didn't they feed you over there?'<br />-The food was terrible at my place...chimed the little bells..and I heard from a very dear friend THIS was the place to be...in your garden! One of the greatest of greatest gourmet chefs should live here..I believe his restaurant is called.."Unexpected".<br />-'Well',said Elvira,'I do know a Gustave,and he is a great cook...but what I didn't know was that he started a diner..<br />-'My dear squirrel...it isn't a Diner..don't let the Great Gustave hear you say that...he is the most famous pasta maker ever...and his imaginary cookies won a prise in Paris..very unexpected...<br />-A Gourmet Chef ,in our garden,very unexpected indeed..said Elvira...I must go and find Gustave...see what he has to say about all this..But before I go, can you tell me your name, and who this dear friend of you is..the one who told you to come here..<br />-'My name is Bell...and the name of the friend who invited me here is Beauregard....he is very very nice with a sweet and kind look in eyes..'answered Bell.<br />-Beauregard....Elvira was puzzled...She knew everybody in the garden...and everybody in the Hilltop forest..but a Beauregard...Who could this be..<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghdPraL9SNYzM0yRA4qzrr9J_Gp4JHFXaVMfexenZ3yZfjFc9Hix77loeS_Ia8pItTlaJDZTDgFwsOfoJr82k3yoEAfyg8y7CVFoHUD7hr4HKsepkO8TjfDxjyX-XxI1W3oyq9SHhrJ84/s1600-h/Mouse%2520tracks%2520in%2520snow;%2520John%2520Good%2520-%2520NPS%2520Photo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghdPraL9SNYzM0yRA4qzrr9J_Gp4JHFXaVMfexenZ3yZfjFc9Hix77loeS_Ia8pItTlaJDZTDgFwsOfoJr82k3yoEAfyg8y7CVFoHUD7hr4HKsepkO8TjfDxjyX-XxI1W3oyq9SHhrJ84/s320/Mouse%2520tracks%2520in%2520snow;%2520John%2520Good%2520-%2520NPS%2520Photo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425449673353801506" /></a><br />Elvira soon found Gustave..She heard from a little bird that Gustave was having tea with Miss Moussie in the Kitchen.<br />Gustave was enjoying some quiet time..looking out of the window...watching snowflakes fall..<br /><br />Elvira hopped on the kitchen window seal and with a very elegant tap she politely knocked. ..... <br /><br />-'O ,there's Elvira'..twittered Miss Moussie..'she must be ever so cold standing guard at the garden gate all day..I will ask her in for a cup of tea'.<br />Whilst opening the window she squeaked..'Come in Elvira dearest,and sit yourself down by the fire'.<br />Elvira rushed in....taking with her a whirl of snowflakes...<br />She didn't take time to sit down but immediately started talking..<br /><br />-'Gustave ,there is someone to see you at the gate...that is ..she is sitting on the bird feeder waiting to be fed...and she wants you do feed her...'said Elvira very exited!<br />Gustave,who was just stirring his tea...with four lumps of sugar..paused..<br />-'Did I hear you correctly Elvira'..he croaked puzzled..'I am sure I didn't understand you correctly..?'<br />-'He has to feed WHOM with whát...twittered Miss Moussie curious..'and whére...?'<br />-In his restaurant said Elvira...Unexpected...<br />-Unexpected ,twittered Miss Moussie,'unexpected..I knew something unexpected was about to happen..told you so..I hate unexpected things...they can be very suspicious...I want to know more about this'...and then she grabbed her bonnet,mittens, and coat,swooped down under the doormat, to wiggle herself through the crack in the wall,this wasn't easy to do wearing all this thick winter cloths..!<br /> <br />See how she runs.....followed in her tracks by Elvira...and ofcourse Gustave..<br /><br />In the kitchen the Cuckoo clock stopped ticking...the little clock door opened and the Cuckoo came out...<br />-'This was the last cuckoo you will ever hear from me in this kitchen', it cuckood...'I am off...I packed my bags and I am going back to Cuckoo land...Farewell..!'<br />And with a bang the door closed behind him.<br /><br /><br />What happened up there..?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVznhZK0y0MF9sVQ10T4XNtTb5VnVMwSxSkuQ-PSC3RWHU2tq0LolCwhhOWY4wQn1gHD49Ntu5k8Gz808aBuckhqewL0qReaLVpv0GfKhSb3mBVNDkb9yw4vm6f1B0ZHoXnsmUN1ShmbQ/s1600-h/Foto0521.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVznhZK0y0MF9sVQ10T4XNtTb5VnVMwSxSkuQ-PSC3RWHU2tq0LolCwhhOWY4wQn1gHD49Ntu5k8Gz808aBuckhqewL0qReaLVpv0GfKhSb3mBVNDkb9yw4vm6f1B0ZHoXnsmUN1ShmbQ/s320/Foto0521.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425876900817635250" /></a><br />Miss Moussie arrived at the scene....<br /><br />-'There it is',she whispered...'its sitting high and dry in the bird feeder...what a darling little creature..!'<br /><br />Then..the darling little creature looked down on Miss Moussie and said...<br /><br />-Hello down there....any chance you know the way to the restaurant dear mouse....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_YiIwVuVeYuHW1vvSxDKwnrGCOS25Qyd4FUlCahQ-5rezjE6EeXcNDSeyJzcuGfRTJmkGpNRs87I4nDP2t-jWGFfk_K_tNCiG7huQczwszT33iZLcuc1ZFHKyBbOxlGYEoBDubK5PAwE/s1600-h/Foto0531.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_YiIwVuVeYuHW1vvSxDKwnrGCOS25Qyd4FUlCahQ-5rezjE6EeXcNDSeyJzcuGfRTJmkGpNRs87I4nDP2t-jWGFfk_K_tNCiG7huQczwszT33iZLcuc1ZFHKyBbOxlGYEoBDubK5PAwE/s320/Foto0531.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426571650721310754" /></a><br />- 'You are in the wrong garden little one'...twittered miss Moussie..'There is no restaurant at our place'.<br /><br />-'But there is there is'..croaked Gustave...who followed Miss Moussie to the bird feeder and now stood next to her..He was looking very anxious and couldn't stop fiddling his bow tie..<br /><br />-'I know that look on your face...squeaked Miss Moussie..Tell me what's going on,and stop fiddling that tie...you are making me nervous..<br /><br />Gustave took a deep breath and then and there he told Miss Moussie the great news about him winning the Great Gourmet Award and how he very unexpectedly got the idea to start a restaurant....in the garden...under the Lilac bush..this would make a perfect spot..especially in Summer..<br /><br />For a minute Miss Moussie was speechless..this doesn't happen very often..<br /><br />Taking her chance to interrupted the conversation between Gustave and Miss Moussie,from out of the bird feeder little Bell chimed...'Then,can we go and eat now..I am very very hungry..please I must warn you,when I don't eat on time I get very cranky and I become a very LOUD Bell'.....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip1gSm3FQgLenaXvSfcRYsfIY1mejfg1FSiuBSE7bv5MWpePSClK-6dbOXqlsbgeZMpIn6VGqLAvBzWzKxw6ptkPyNAHU3xxCEgQtBf2KvJ01zK85gp1Dg3AlhC6Pm26J6zGYpfmbG_E8/s1600-h/Foto0536.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip1gSm3FQgLenaXvSfcRYsfIY1mejfg1FSiuBSE7bv5MWpePSClK-6dbOXqlsbgeZMpIn6VGqLAvBzWzKxw6ptkPyNAHU3xxCEgQtBf2KvJ01zK85gp1Dg3AlhC6Pm26J6zGYpfmbG_E8/s320/Foto0536.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428120820615961122" /></a><br />Elvira introduced Bell to Miss Moussie and Gustave...they both were charmed by this little creature!<br /><br />-'You are ever so welcome in my new restaurant',croaked Gustave,'but I'm afraid it will take a while before we can celebrate the grand opening..I was thinking somewhere in Spring..'<br />-'SOMEWHERE IN SPRING'...Bell chimed...'SOMEWHERE IN SPRING...BUT THEN I WILL STARVE TO DEATH..!'<br />-'O dear',twittered Miss Moussie covering her ears...'take it easy dear Bell,not so loud,we hear you...'<br />-'O NO you DON'T'...chimed Bell even louder....'YOU HEAR ME BUT YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND...WHAT HAS TO BECOME OF ME...IT"S LIKE WITH LOVE..'<br />-'What is'..croaked Gustave,'and please little one,explain it to us gently..'<br />-'I CAN'T BE GENTLY WHEN I AM HUNGRY....I NEEEEEEEED TO BE FED...JUST ONE TINY PLATE OF YOUR FABULOUS PASTA...PLEASE...?'<br /><br />Meanwhile in the kitchen...<br /><br />Very slowly the door of the Cuckoo Clock opened...a familiar Gnome's face appeared.. humming..."What's this loud and disturbing racket I hear...wait a minute...I recognise that racket...its Bell's racket...!' Immediately,with a big leap the Gnome jumped down from the clock and ran out of the kitchen...into the garden..<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp-1ByG8IY145UJrOciCg_NIxw7PGK2QVhq_jmRARSSNhlK3UsxzWAZPKefoVITHJOIoBJe9xjWy3UavhPhD3opvKgKa7ikrOxAiWxNwJrGlpTAaQc0XUxYIlP5nHG5sOc6BG4T24qb6c/s1600-h/snow-heart.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 248px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp-1ByG8IY145UJrOciCg_NIxw7PGK2QVhq_jmRARSSNhlK3UsxzWAZPKefoVITHJOIoBJe9xjWy3UavhPhD3opvKgKa7ikrOxAiWxNwJrGlpTAaQc0XUxYIlP5nHG5sOc6BG4T24qb6c/s320/snow-heart.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429956049362911666" /></a><br />As fast as lightning our little Gnome leaped through the garden....whilst humming, 'Bell Bell,is that you...where are you ma belle Bell......<br /><br />Up,in the bird feeder, Bell saw something move in the distance...she abruptly stopped shouting...she saw a little figure coming closer...it leaped through the bushes with a very familiar leap..and it was humming a tune she heard before..<br /><br />-Beauregard...chimed Bell...O Beauregard..its you...safe me..safe me......<br /><br />Miss Moussie,Elvira, and Gustave, very curious gazed in the distance to see who, or what is was that approached them, and which apparently had the name...Beauregard.. !<br /> <br />-Leaping lizard's...croaked Gustave surprised,would you believe that..Its the Gnome..<br />-So THAT'S Beauregard...squeaked Miss Moussie..and started to giggle..<br /> <br />There, with a very courageous and also very spectacular jump, Beauregard landed next to Bell in the bird feeder...<br /> <br />-O...my....my hero ...stammered Bell...and then she fainted.....into Beauregard's arms...<br /> <br />-Goodness..what's wrong with the poor thing..twittered Miss Moussie....<br />-She really must have been very hungry,said Elvira...<br /> <br />-Indeed,said Beauregard..she was very hungry indeed...you know, its like with love...<br />-What is ...croaked Gustave...Bell was trying to tell the same thing...what is like love...<br />-Well,said Miss Moussie...I think I understand now...You have to nourish love....because when you don't.. things can go very wrong...love can disappear...or even worse..it can wither and die....so ,like our little Bell here...it has to be fed...and taken care of...<br />-I knew that...croaked Gustave..while he gave Miss Moussie a wink...Love is like to eat a big bowl of spaghetti...together.!. <br />Bell,laying safe in Beauregard's arms...sighed....and whispered....Take me home my darling....please...and she looked deep into Beauregard's eyes..<br />-Never fear my dear...said Beauregard...and holding Bell very close ,he leaped from the bird feeder....to disappear within seconds into Hilltop Hall...The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-65349217506278637512009-12-12T12:49:00.007+01:002010-03-22T16:53:29.456+01:00NowDear you...Lets walk while we talk..Today,and NOW,two very special moments in time, I would like to take you on a tour....we are going to visit the kitchen of Hilltop Hall...a marvelous place to be this time a year...it's warm and cosy, and there is always food on the table..<br />Scrumptious stews..marvelous marmalades..delicious dumplings..terrific tea..wonderful waffles..crunchy cookies,and more yummy stuff..Food for the soul..<br />I love to sit by the crackling fire that's burning in the heart of the stove.<br />In the kitchen,very proudly ,stands a very old cabinet...<br />The grandfather from our dear Dutches made it himself..from a Cherry tree..a tree that blossomed every year in the garden but sadly,one cold winter night.. died..<br />Rumour goes the tree died under a spell..the curse of the Garden Gnome...a magical creature that wanders the Hilltop grounds..it sometimes visits Hilltop Hall by night. <br />He is the tiniest Gnome you ever did see..if you ever DID see one that is...most people never see a Gnome in there entire life...So,better be ware when you walk the Hilltop grounds...you might step on it..<br />It is possible to hear him coming...he likes to sing..well,its more a humming sound..like from a Bee..it sounds a bit creepy if you ask me...<br />And there is another thing you need to know about him! When the moon comes out and stars are shining bright...the Gnome haunts the rooms of the Hilltop Hall and can attack you from out of a dark corner...jumping into your hair, twisting it in a thousand knots...whilst humming his spells..<br />They say he casted a spell on the Cherry tree..so it would never bloom again... all this because this horrible creature wanted to eat Cherries in wintertime...and the poor Cherry tree asked him to please wait until summer....Our beautiful tree withered and died..<br />The Dutchess's grandfather then decided to make a cabinet.This man was a great carpenter..He carved Cherry blossoms and wild Ivy in the cabinet doors to honor the tree,and so ,in a wonderful way it is like she is still in bloom..and now for ever and ever..<br /> When we arrive in the kitchen ,please say something nice to the cabinet..then you will be able to smell the sweet sent of Cherry blossom and see the Ivy grow..<br />In a secret drawer..hidden inside the cabinet...you can find the cabinets wonder...it really is something like a miracle..<br />A little drawer filled with 24 letters ,letters carved out of that same enchanted wood from the Cherry tree...24 letters forming the Alphabet.When our Dutchess was <a href="http://thedutchesss.blogspot.com/2008/06/alphabet.html">a little girl </a>she used to play with the letters...soon to find out that this alphabet wasn't just an ordinary one...It could spell on his own....and it was to be found everywhere..hiding under the table..running down the stairs..walking through the forest,playing hide and seek..But always doing so by making words..like when they ran,they formed the words..VERY FAST..<br />Later, when our Dutchess grew up to be a girl who knew many many words..the alphabet retired..Now only to come out when it was absolutely necessary..if there occurred a spelling problem of some sort..last time we did see it was last Christmas,when we didn't know how to spell..'marvelous'..because that's how I looked in my red Christmas dress..<br /><br />Almost there now...we are about to enter the kitchen..Come inside dear one..and lets sit at the kitchen table...there I will tell you more..about the Hilltop Hall and its secrets..The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-69940932956996685822009-12-11T12:51:00.022+01:002010-01-05T12:39:35.099+01:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTv69NPCSyEQyzPuoGey_oALEZ2jnf4vdxkf6MUUSsP_CpKM_QymchMbKriEHkE2KEtOuFEKIXvWYbsdoBTloCuW3Mxh6IXRKZL14sdNnkMgekyIA0WFmFIOdkgQiHbV0P06RPdCXibs/s1600/Foto0403.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTv69NPCSyEQyzPuoGey_oALEZ2jnf4vdxkf6MUUSsP_CpKM_QymchMbKriEHkE2KEtOuFEKIXvWYbsdoBTloCuW3Mxh6IXRKZL14sdNnkMgekyIA0WFmFIOdkgQiHbV0P06RPdCXibs/s200/Foto0403.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404714005373811474" /></a><br />Are you sitting comfy Dearest...Will you pour us a nice cup of tea..I am afraid this teapot is to big for a little moussie like me..we will treat ourselves to a piece of chocolate cake..and then I will continue my story..<br />Isn't it warm and quiet in the Kitchen..you can hear the clock ticking and the fire softly crackle..you could almost fall asleep after this lovely walk we had in the Hilltop Forest..<br />Well,where was I....O Yes...About the Alphabet,the Alphabet that's hidden in the old Cabinet!<br />There you see the cabinet..standing before you..isn't it marvelous...What did you say...Its bigger then you expected it to be..Yes my dear...its grand..and full of wonderful and magical things...Later we will take a piek inside...<br />I am so sorry that I'm not allowed to show you the secret drawer where the Alphabet hides..because then it wouldn't be a secret anymore now would it..!<br />There is another little something I have to tell you about the Alphabet...and I would like to ask you a question..How many letters has the alphabet as you know it..?<br />In Hilltop language there are 26....and if you remember well, I told you that the Alphabet in the secret drawer only counts 24....So...Yes My dear..You are absolutely right...two letters are missing...<br />When our Dutchess was young,she was a very headstrong little girl..<br />It wasn't easy to teach her something..She always had to find out herself why things were as they were! <br />She always started to answer a question,(like for instance this one,"Is it so that one and one makes two")with...NO.....This, to be on the safe side ..she could always change it in ,yes, if she was absolutely sure that, even in a very exceptional case, it would never be possible that one and one could ever make three!<br />The alphabet had a lot of patience with this sweet stubborn girl...all the letters loved Victoria very dearly.. they told her many many stories and often kept her from harm by warning her and giving her messages..Now, you may ask ,what has all this to do with the missing letters..Well...Dearest...two of the letters from this magical alphabet did also learn something ...They learned to say..NO!<br />You may have experienced yourself how hard it can be to just say No when you have to do something you really don't feel like doing...wasn't this easier when you were a child...like little Victoria..when you just could have a terrible fit from time to time and scream NO!<br />The letter N and the letter O thought so too and decided it would be marvelous to scream NO together ,so...one night they secretly sneaked out of the drawer and ran away...never to be seen again..They can only be found when you can scream louder then they do..I must say its fun to try...I did ones....together with Gustave..there we were..a moussie and a frog ..screaming at the top of our longs...NOOOOOOO..we did feel ever so much better after that..<br />Speaking of Gustave...he told me he would come and join us today...we must pay attention to the doormat..<br />There is this entrance under the flowerpot...I always use it..You enter the flowerpot...then slide through a crack in the wall..and you appear from under the doormat..We've done that more than a thousand times...never a problem..<br />O...there he is..one leg that is..and there follows the rest of the frog..including his bow tie..<br />Gustave ,sweet friend..so good to see you..may I introduce to you a Kindred Spirit..who came to visit Hilltop Hall and listen to all our stories of wonder..<br />Come sit on our table...make yourself comfortable and tell us about the secrets of the Hilltop known to thee...whilst we sip our tea..<br />Just when Gustave was about to speak..Miss Moussie squeeked...O goodness, look outside darlings...Its getting ever so dark..and look at the trees....I think something's brewing...and its not the tea... I believe there is a storm coming up ,croaked Gustave...Seems we will be sitting here for a while..All the more time I'll have to tell my story... <br /><br />Soon darkness fell around Hilltop Hall..<br />The wind was howling through the forest.. the trees bended to his power.. Don't worry..inside this Kitchen you will be safe...There is Miss Moussie who will take good care of you...Gustave, who will protect you...and..wait a minute..I do believe there is another creature present..one you can hardly notice because its so very small...on top of the Cuckoo clock..behind the cuckoo...sits a tiny Gnome...He is humming a tune...not to be heard by the others because of the many different songs the wind is singing in the chimney..<br /><br />Let me start at the beginning ,croaked Gustave sitting on the table...He leaned against the sugar bowl..took a big sip from his tea and cleared his throat...<br /><br />Once upon a time ,a long long time ago there was a little girl....she was born in a far far away land across the big blue see in the year 1888...Of course I am not this old to live and tell...this was told to me by my great great great etc etc...grandfather frog Gustave the first..He traveled together with the little girl and her parents on a big ship..coming from a deserted Island called, The island that was..<br />It wasn't his intention to go and leave The Island that was......he accidentally was shipped into a box of waterlilies...Lillie's who were to be planted in a pond..a pond on a Hilltop,far far away!After a long journey they arrived at a beautiful house...in a warm and cosy kitchen..the kitchen we are sitting this very moment..The Kitchen of Hilltop Hall.<br />The little girl grew up very happily until on her seventh birthday something tragic happened...her father disappeared..They searched desperately for days and months..but couldn't find him..leaving the little girl and her mother being ever so sad! <br />You must know the father of this little girl wasn't just an ordinary man...He was very clever ..he owned more then a thousand books..and the story goes that he also kept a treasure hidden on a secret place on the Hilltop ..A treasure he took with him from The Island that was....a treasure he gathered roaming the seven sees when he was still a Pirate..Yes my dear..you heard well...the great great grandfather of our Duchess was <a href="http://thedutchesss.blogspot.com/2008/05/pirates-love.html">a Pirate..</a><br />When you go up the stairs you can find a big painting hanging there...before your very eyes you can see a man looking down at you ..smiling a mysterious smile..a man with a secret...Mr Pirate himself!<br />At the time of his disappearing strange and wonderful things began to happen...Do you remember what Miss Moussie told you about the magical Cabinet standing in this Kitchen..and the enchanted Alphabet? It was in these days the Alphabet started to wander through the Hilltop Hall..it was in these days they began to follow the little girl..and it was in these days the Gnome appeared..<br />The Gnome scared the wits out of everybody on the Hilltop..he attacked every visitor..he tied knots in shoelaces..tied knots in ties...he tied knots in every thing he possible could ....even in your hair ,jumping out of a dark corner when you would least expect it!<br />He was ever so sweet towards the little girl....he never bothered her...he used to sit next to her bedside to watch the little girl sleep...like he was guarding her..to keep her from harm...like the alphabet did!<br />The tiny Gnome and the Alphabet weren't the only ones to stand guard....<br />In the Hilltop Forest a strong and mighty creature..a very big and powerful Bear was also guarding something ...The Pirates Treasure..<a href="http://thedutchesss.blogspot.com/2008/05/treasure-of-red.html">The bears from the Hilltop forest </a>promised they would keep the treasure safe...only to give it back to The Pirate on his safe return on the Hilltop..!<br />One day...one fine day in the midst of Summer..The little girl from Hilltop Hall found it was time...time to go on a quest...She was going to search for her father..and how she did that..well dearest that's a very very long story...I believe our Dutchess is writing a book about it...For now we must end our little get together..it allready dark outside...you must go home or you will not be able to find your way through the forest...Let us give you a lantern to light the path you have to walk to the gate and further..be safe my dear...watch out for the bears...and when you hear a humming sound...hold on to your hairdo..<br />Please come back anytime...you are ever so welcome...hug from all of us...and remember...stay warm and stay happy..<br /><br />A few minutes later....Miss Moussie and Gustave were cleaning up the Kitchen...the Cuckoo clock cuckood twelve....At the last cuckoo something tumbled down..it came from behind the cuckoo...and it fell in a cooking pot...a pot of soup which Gustave made that day..<br />-What was that...squeaked Miss Moussie...I am sure I saw something taking a plunge into the soup.<br />-You did..croaked Gustave...Well...lets hope it was something elementary..I will give it a good stir..<br />Gustave stirred the soup and took a taste.."O my...wonderful soup as I say so myself..as far as you can tell from cold soup...we will enjoy this tomorrow..<br />Then they turned down the lights...crawled under the doormat to slide through the crack in the wall to leave through the flowerpot entrance..<br />Together arm in arm they went home.<br />-See you,Dear Gustave ..twittered Miss Moussie..sleep well...<br />-Sweet dreams Miss,croaked Gustave..meet you in the kitchen tomorrow...<br /><br />Then everything was quiet at the Hilltop....well,not everything...in the kitchen a tiny little Gnome was splashing around in a pot of tomato soup...humming, and not at all pleased..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSjjEX6NrsvpU-M_Q5l4evnu0KI9FtTeRJFqeANyzxecJWvQy2srxiL-cYIFneyZvLm1JMZHu_Gdsr8Dy5daNb-7t-E93ntJGda7jqpgX6NZEs43tC6CZ20cMsdYYgnRq7Ob9kGftQFUA/s1600/hot-chocolate-ck-1687649-x.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSjjEX6NrsvpU-M_Q5l4evnu0KI9FtTeRJFqeANyzxecJWvQy2srxiL-cYIFneyZvLm1JMZHu_Gdsr8Dy5daNb-7t-E93ntJGda7jqpgX6NZEs43tC6CZ20cMsdYYgnRq7Ob9kGftQFUA/s200/hot-chocolate-ck-1687649-x.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408165140755193634" /></a><br />In the middle of the night our dear Dutchess came home..she entered through the Kitchen door...dropped her bags on the doorstep...and sighed.<br />It had been a long long day and she was very tired. What I need now is a cup of hot cocoa before I go to bed..she said to herself. She turned up the lights and walked towards the stove...<br /><br />-O how lovely...Tomato soup...Gustave must have made this today..he is such a darling...but...well..as always he made a terrible mess...there's soup everywhere..!<br /><br />Then...the Dutchess found something very peculiar...on the stove,next to the pot of soup she saw tiny footprints...<br /><br />-Strange,she whispered...tomato soup footprints....<br /><br />Suddenly....a noise behind her startled her! It came from under the doormat..<br /> <br />-Dearest..Its me ,Miss Moussie...I can't get in ...your bags are in the way..Yoehoe..<br />Quickly The Dutches removed her belongings from the doormat and helped Miss Moussie enter the kitchen.<br />-So Happy to see you ,squeaked miss Moussie..brushing of her coat..you know dearest its quit dusty under this mat..you should sweep the floor more often.<br />-This I will do..said the Dutchess with a smile...My dear Miss Moussie its so good to see you again..and at this time a night...did I wake you up..<br />-No No...I wanted to say goodnight ...and to be sure you are fine..<br />-This is so sweet of you my dear Miss M...I was going to make myself a cup of cocoa..would you like to join me? And now that you are here...there is something I must tell you..I discovered something very strange...<br />-You did...squeaked Miss Moussie...and what might this be..<br />-Look..said the Dutchess pointing at the stove...footprints...tomato soup footprints...and they look familiar..<br />-O dear...twittered Miss Moussie...not Gustave again..I told him not to spill the soup..and now you tell me he even walked through it..<br />-No dearest..I wasn't Gustave..these footprints are to tiny..I did see them before,when I was a little girl...These footprints are from...a Gnome..<br />-O Goodness me...twittered Miss Moussie nervously...is it HIM...the humming Gnome....just a few ours ago we were talking about him...at this table..I wonder..<br />-Wonder WHAT..dear Miss M..do you think he was all ready here...in the Kitchen..listening to what you were saying ..<br />-This could very well be possible...said Miss Moussie...and when Gustave and I were cleaning up the Kitchen..something fell in the soup...<br />-AHAA,said the Dutchess...you are so clever Miss Watson..this was elementary..this explains the footprints..the Gnome fell in the soup!<br />-He did..twittered Miss Moussie..and this means we have to solve the next problem...<br />-So we do...so we do...said the dutches taking a sip of her cocoa...just where might this Gnome be...<br /><br />-I am staying the night...I am not going to leave you alone with this creature..I will be back in a jiffy...just going to get my pyjamas....twittered Miss Moussie whilst she took a dive under the doormat ...<br />Within minutes she came back..in her robe...<br />-Darling,this is so sweet of you but I am sure I will be fine...I know this little fellow..he was always very nice to me..<br />-Gnome's are not to be trusted and I find them very suspicious..twittered Miss Moussie with a firm tone of voice...I am staying!<br />-Very well then..You can sleep next to me....This will be fun...a pyjama party..Come ..lets go upstairs..its very late and us girls we do need our beauty sleep..<br /><br />It was a dark night on Hilltop Hall...nothing was stirring..not even a mouse..<br />Well..not this time...the Mousse in question was very jumpy and nervous..She was laying in bed ..listening to every sound..watching every shadow..<br />The Dutchess was sound a sleep...you only could see her nose above the blankets and a whirl of tangled curly hair..<br />-I must stay awake...whispered Miss Moussie...I don't like Gnome's..you never know what they are up to..She started counting sheep...this to help her NOT to fall in sleep..<br />-Thousand and one ,thousand and two, thousand and four, thousand and..WHAT WAS THAT...<br />Miss Moussie jumped up and started to run to the Dutchess...this wasn't easy to do in such a big soft fluffy pillow..she almost disappeared in it...It was like she had to climb a very high mountain...She struggled to reach the Dutchess...she crawled next to the Dutchess's ear and pulled it..whispering...Dearest..wake up...wake up..listen, do you hear what I hear..?<br />-The Dutchess opened her eyes..its him ,she said..I can hear him humming..its the Gnome..<br />-O Dear ...O Dear...squeaked Miss Moussie...Now what...and then she slipped under the blankets..mumbling..I think I will stay here for a while..<br />-That's a good idea..whispered the Dutchess..wait there..Don't worry..I will be right back....I think these humming sounds are coming from the bathroom...Then she stepped out of bed and tiptoed towards the door...<br />Miss Moussie couldn't stand the suspense...she ran after the Dutchess as fast as she possibly could....Then ,they very slowly opened the bathroom door...to see splishing and splashing in the bathroom sink..a tiny Gnome...taking a bath..whilst humming a merry tune..<br /><br />Together,Miss Moussie and the Dutchess yelled OOOOooOOOoooo....<br />The Gnome in the sink...scared out of his wits by these two ladies ....yelled..AAAAaaaaaaaaH...and then he jumped...into the Dutchess her hair.....<br /><br />-He's in you hair, he's in your hair...Squeaked Miss Moussie....<br />-Get out of there..you silly Gnome..get out..said the Dutchess...OUT NOW...<br /><br />Then they heard a tiny voice hum...No can't do...I am not decent.....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMOxCxaAF2rhbX6s8jLTR-M68rqKWyU_Uh5HT-Loe6KIScbqKM7WEhxrs-8odVbP1pp6slVXEvP96ovlWkO5ekTkMPe-OXoKKalZ7w_lTISbgol2LgQDBn03aDpkmVkT0CrHxcbBe0D2w/s1600/Foto0417.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMOxCxaAF2rhbX6s8jLTR-M68rqKWyU_Uh5HT-Loe6KIScbqKM7WEhxrs-8odVbP1pp6slVXEvP96ovlWkO5ekTkMPe-OXoKKalZ7w_lTISbgol2LgQDBn03aDpkmVkT0CrHxcbBe0D2w/s320/Foto0417.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409523162852999170" /></a><br />I'm not decent...yelled the little Gnome whilst clutching on to the Dutchess her hair...I am only wearing my hat..<br /> We won't look..we swear,squeaked Miss Moussie...please be a gentlemen and come out of there...<br />For a minute nothing happened...The Dutchess was standing very still...waiting..and Miss Moussie tried to get a glimpse of the Gnome...where was he...<br /><br />OK then..said the Dutchess..if you won't come out yourself I will just have to come and get you...and she walked towards the mirror to take a good look..<br />This helped....suddenly with a big leap the Gnome flew out of the Dutchess hair and disappeared behind a piece of soap..<br /><br />You better be careful...a little voice said...don't come any closer...I am very dangerous in this condition..<br /><br />Then tell us dear Gnome what are you doing here in our house at this time of night...asked the Dutchess.<br />Well...Its the season...answered the Gnome..<br />The Season, squeaked Miss Moussie ..what do you mean by that...its the season to swim in tomato soup..?<br />No No..Its the season to be Jolly said the Gnome...But I started of on the wrong foot..I fell out of the cuckoo clock!<br />You poor thing,said the Dutchess with a smile...are you alright..I do remember you you know..from long ago ...<br />Then, a little face with a big grin appeared from behind the soap...Yes ,it said..and didn't we have happy times...<br /><br />The Gnome gathered his clothes...Miss Moussie and the Dutchess politely looked the other way...then the three of them went downstairs.<br />My dear Fellow..said the Dutchess when they were sitting warmly by the fire in the living room ..Its so good to see you again..but you must tell me...did you really come here to be Jolly..or is there something else we must know...<br />O goodness,squeaked Miss Moussie..I knew it ,I knew it...this is going to be very suspicious ..she then sat herself closer to the Gnome...looked him in the eye..whilst saying..Well Mister...the truth and nothing but the truth...and no funny business...<br />Miss Moussie looked the little Gnome deep in his eyes ..."Well little man..we are waiting for you to tell your story...why are you wandering through Hilltop Hall in the middle of the night... For a time it was very still in the living room...the only sound came from the crackling fire...And just at the very moment when the Gnome openend his mouth to speak...there was a knock...and another one.. Was there someone knocking at the door?...No..this sound came from the kitchen..and this knocking sounded very persistent.....'Listen' whispered The Dutchess ..'this knocking has a rhythm... Oh, squeeked Miss Moussie ..like the Tango... No..silly mouse..hissed the Gnome..Like a mayday.. A May day...what's wrong with a day in may...twittered Miss Moussie offended by the way the Gnome reacted.. Dearest...said the Dutchess...our "Jolly" old chap here means that this knocking sound is a signal..someone needs our help....<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6SR45hGnhZ3Rq_Gp9jlQ0kv11eLaUHK1ELYqJC0f8erQr3oNwbYhIQPX5TZan-9-2qwUc5AXt9S7tMlOvwYeoNvX15yFA13ebupnTEm_2RtAdAj_Aunij7rH9WIzeLT9AsCZFRPvb068/s1600-h/Foto0431.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6SR45hGnhZ3Rq_Gp9jlQ0kv11eLaUHK1ELYqJC0f8erQr3oNwbYhIQPX5TZan-9-2qwUc5AXt9S7tMlOvwYeoNvX15yFA13ebupnTEm_2RtAdAj_Aunij7rH9WIzeLT9AsCZFRPvb068/s320/Foto0431.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412978610596403266" /></a><br />The Dutchess and Miss Moussie rushed to the kitchen...there they listened carefully..the knocking continued...<br /><br />Its coming from the Cabinet....squeaked Miss Moussie...maybe a lost moussie is in there and can't get out...lets open the Cabinet and see..<br />Very slowly the Dutchess opened the big Cabinet...the doors squeaked..they sounded a bit like a noise Miss Mousie sometimes makes when you tickle her..<br /><br />Cups and saucers..pots and pans..napkins and tablecloths...a thee pot ..a sugar bowl..a cookie jar..Well...twittered Miss Moussie,I don't see anything that could be suspicious..<br /> <br />But there is..there is ...said a little voice coming from the cuckoo clock..<br />Its in a secret place...you have to look again...<br />It was our little Gnome..sitting in the clock,next to the cuckoo,looking down..<br /><br />-A secret hiding place you say...then I think I know what to do...said the Dutchess whilst pulling up a chair very close to the Cabinet...<br />-Do you need to sit down dearest..squeaked Miss Moussie ..are you not feeling well..<br />-I am fine Miss M...said the Dutchess,now standing on the chair...and don't be scared now..hold on to your whiskers...I am going to open the secret drawer..<br /><br />She pulled and pulled...the drawer didn't open..it was stuck..the knocking now got even louder...<br /><br />O my Goodness...twittered miss Moussie..what's in that drawer..better let it stay there..<br /><br />The Dutchess pulled again...and then, tumbled down from the chair holding the drawer in her hand...<br /><br />Timber...shouted the Gnome in the clock...an avalanche...<br /><br />Miss Moussie and the Dutchess took a dive under the kitchen table ,holding on to each other..<br />-Its the Alphabet..twittered Miss Moussie..I saw it..it fell out of the drawer..I almost got hit by a B...how marvelous..Dearest,do you think its safe to come out now.. <br /><br />Then they heard the little Gnome yelling...come out come out where ever you are...we got company..<br /><br />The Dutchess lifted miss Moussie up and placed the little mouse on her shoulder..sitting on the ground they both looked up to the ceiling and this is what they saw..<br /><br />THANK YU<br /><br />The letters were making words...a welcome message<br /><br />LETS HUG<br /><br />Twentyfour letters swooped down and twirled around the Dutchess and the Mouse...It was like they were sitting in a whirlwind....like there was a troupe of birdies circling there heads...You could here the twitter of Miss Moussie...squeaking something like..O dear..and, O Goodness me.....<br />Then...Suddenly, the letters flew up to the ceiling again..<br /><br />HI FRUG<br /><br />-What ever could they mean by that..said Miss Moussie...whats a FRUG..<br />-Don't forget whispered the Dutchess in Miss Moussies ear...there are two letters missing...<br /><br /> A familiar croak sounded through the kitchen...<br />-The Name Is Gustave...croaked Gustave who just came in.....and I am FROG...<br /><br />LETS HUG<br /><br />Said the Alphabet...and they all swooped down on poor Gustave who completely disappeared under a pile of 24 hugs....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-F9aiDiTlCNuSdQ6wSgbBWQX50r4MwK337fL9Ga8QZbEw9lcxZ8MZZW_3SjuL6ah-0m5dhGfR7-qVN8yc4pUrpT6nA7EcxEhKHA-hnv_2HaHk84fxWoefTm2DyX2lQku15Hj47ptHKg/s1600-h/Foto0437.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-F9aiDiTlCNuSdQ6wSgbBWQX50r4MwK337fL9Ga8QZbEw9lcxZ8MZZW_3SjuL6ah-0m5dhGfR7-qVN8yc4pUrpT6nA7EcxEhKHA-hnv_2HaHk84fxWoefTm2DyX2lQku15Hj47ptHKg/s320/Foto0437.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415080582839346178" /></a><br />O dear ..squeaked Miss Moussie..Gustave are you oke..shall we come to the rescue?<br /> <br />Gustave's laughing face emerged from under the hugs...What a wonderful welcome comity..he croaked...shall I come in again...and he was about to go crawl back under the doormat when a voice from above said..<br /><br />No time for fooling around now...Listen to me...Its only ten days to Christmas and there is something very important for us to do before that...<br /><br />It was the little Gnome...sitting in the cuckoo clock...<br /><br />-Well then..time to continue our conversation we had earlier,said the Dutches while she stood up from the kitchen floor with Miss Moussie on her shoulder..Lets talk ...what is wrong dear Gnome..why are you and the alphabet visiting us? <br />-Yes..please do tell ...twittered Miss Moussie..All this midnight hanky panky isn't good for my nerves...<br /><br />With a big leap the Gnome flew out of the cuckoo clock....and landed on the kitchen table.<br /><br />O my..that little guy can jump..croaked Gustave...and because him being a frog he followed the gnome ..just to let this little fellow know he could jump too..and maybe even better..<br /><br />The Alphabet saw the gnome fly....saw Gustave jump .....and spelled..<br /><br />MARVELUS<br /><br />They regrouped and formed the words..<br /><br />LEAP FRUG...<br /><br />Then the alphabet whirled themselves on the table ...next to Gustave...<br /><br />-You are absolutely right, twittered Miss Moussie proudly ,isn't Gustave marvelous..he can jump as high as a house..<br />Gustave's swampy shade of green turned red...a lovely blush appeared on his chubby cheeks...O ..its nothing really he mumbled while fumbling his bow tie..<br /><br />The Dutchess placed Miss Moussie next to Gustave and then sat herself down at the table...Now, she said...dear Gnome...can you tell us your story...<br /><br />The alphabet gathered in the middle of the table..they made a circle around Miss Moussie ,Gustave and the little Gnome...<br />Could you please come not so close...squeaked Miss Moussie, I am a bit claustrophobic..<br /><br />SSSsst Hissed the Gnome...will you stop twittering and let me speak..<br />PUH...twittered Miss Moussie...and held her nose up high...looking very annoyed..<br /><br />- As you all may know...said the Gnome..holding one eye on Miss Moussie and the other on the Dutchess...as you all may know...last Christmas the Alphabet visited you to help solve a spelling problem...little did we know that this visit was the start of something very sad...<br /><br />The alphabet now circled like a merry go round...whirling around our little troupe on the table and the formed the word<br /><br />TEARS<br /><br />The Gnome continued...a day after Christmas two letters ran away...the NO..and it never came back....no where to be found..the alphabet cried many tears for there lost friends..so many words they could have spoken but so many words just couldn't be said...just because of this missing letters...<br />For instance you can not spell...love..without the O...you can not spell..JOY..You can not spell Friends..and all this we need so much ..always..but especially at this time a year..<br />Dear Friends...the alphabet asked me to ask you if we could all together go on a search...a search to find the NO..<br />I heard the NO is very stubborn,headstrong and very determined...it won't be easy to find..and it will not be easy to convince it to come home..<br /><br />Miss Moussie raised her hand...permission to speak ,she twittered with a squeak...<br /><br />-Permission granted...said the Gnome surprised...with a glimpse of a smile on his face..<br /><br />-Is it true that if we shout very loud..the NO can hear us...rumour goes that when you shout NO loud enough..louder the the NO...it will come back..<br /><br />-This is true Miss Moussie answered the Gnome...but the fact is there isn't anyone who can shout that loud...we would need it to be a call made around the Globe..on very different places on this earth..and ALL together to make it work..How are we going to find people who could do that...and even when we would find them...first we have to track down the NO...because one would like to know in what direction to shout!<br />There is a place...not far from here,we could be there in a Jiffy...were the No was last spotted...this would be a good place to start..but I would like to know from you if we can depend on your help...will you help the alphabet to find there friends,so they can celebrate Christmas ..and spell...HOPE.......you must know the Alphabet has a lot of faith in you..<br /><br />There the letters wirled and twirled again..spelling..<br /><br />PLEAS..<br /><br />-A Christmas without HOPE..is no Christmas at all...croaked Gustave..with a lump in his throat..wiping a way a tear ...You can count me in..<br />-Me too...twittered Miss Moussie...there should be joy in the world on a Christmas day<br />-And what about LOVE..said the Dutchess...who can do without it..honestly..what would life be..<br /><br />Does this mean we are going to do this...said the Gnome, now smiling a big smile from ear to ear..<br /><br />-WE DO..our friends shouted together...<br />Then we have to start preparing this very minute said the Gnome..no time to lose..<br /><br />-Where shall we start our search ..asked Gustave..you did say there was a place where No could be..are we going to travel there on the Jiffy trail...?<br /><br />-We are old chap..said the Gnome..and the alphabet will tell you where we are going..I don't know the place myself...!<br /><br />The Alphabet swooped up to the ceiling...made a little dance and then formed the word..<br /><br />NUWHERE..<br /><br />OOOO...Goodness..I know where to NO can be found..squeaked Miss Moussie..they mean NOWHERE...as in NO WHERE to be found..our dear friends Mozes and the Tea rat are all ready there...how very exiting..<br /><br />She ran out of the kitchen twittering ..I am going to pack a bag ..followed by Gustave..craoking..me too!<br /><br />Well then..said the dutches to the Gnome...It seams we are going on a trip...its been a long time since you and I went on an adventure together...<br />-At your service dear lady..said the Gnome whilst making a deep bow...<br />The alphabet above there heads happily whirled the words..<br /><br />LETS HUG<br /><br />No way..will you stop that...said the Gnome...jumping in to the dutchess her hair..I hate HUGS..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRpmziAgy3oSb2uDPsVkDP_Jut_pstfxQqI-aZzvUIcsSErpPpVVS_AHik0HMAYraMb2j4_8LDthuPAGHmz7UwhbSg51CWuaRLiW7FFL-ZbzDZdCLETMk_xyWEGqY5hEa9RFuo-KUvot8/s1600-h/748.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 143px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRpmziAgy3oSb2uDPsVkDP_Jut_pstfxQqI-aZzvUIcsSErpPpVVS_AHik0HMAYraMb2j4_8LDthuPAGHmz7UwhbSg51CWuaRLiW7FFL-ZbzDZdCLETMk_xyWEGqY5hEa9RFuo-KUvot8/s200/748.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415452091879627362" /></a><br />The Dutchess was standing in the kitchen,looking out of the window..How silent this night was..in the distance she could hear an Owl...Maybe this was Who...saying goodbye to Miss Moussie and Gustave..<br />The Dutchess her bag was packed...it was waiting for her on the doormat..<br /><br />-Well then,...time to go...she said whilst taking a deep breath and opening the door..<br />The night air greeted her...frosty and clear...<br />The Dutchess gazed at the sky....it was a strange shade of grey..with a sparkle of starlight...<br />-Snow...she said to herself...There is snow in the air...how wonderful. <br /><br />She walked down the garden path towards the Hilltop forest...where all the little garden creatures were waiting...in her footsteps followed the Gnome...humming his tune.<br /><br />The first snowflakes started to fall...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyupwvSfxHdaviu-YXbhyK-Zdd8PxTzP_9wB8BzLCOqOP0zR6-cikA2ydLkDWHjFC5ebkxXIb1ghUIbfnKvqWajI7BR8T8AIgUQ0nsz6hgdnD29nKzlUz-koYzQFAxBNBppIcMC2f2ikU/s1600-h/red_squirrel.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyupwvSfxHdaviu-YXbhyK-Zdd8PxTzP_9wB8BzLCOqOP0zR6-cikA2ydLkDWHjFC5ebkxXIb1ghUIbfnKvqWajI7BR8T8AIgUQ0nsz6hgdnD29nKzlUz-koYzQFAxBNBppIcMC2f2ikU/s320/red_squirrel.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415742818145423362" /></a><br />Soon the forest changed his coat...from dark brown to white...with a soft glow from the moonlight..<br /><br />The Dutchess stood still under the chestnut tree...a little creature appeared..it was Elvira..She looked ever so elegant with all the glistening snowflake freckles on her furry nose..<br /><br />-Dearest,she said to the Dutchess...don't you worry..I will keep an eye on things when you are gone..please take care..and be safe..<br />-You are such a brave little squirrel,smiled the dutchess...go quickly now...close the garden gate behind me and don't let anyone in...unless.. they know the secret password..<br />-I promise..said Elvira...I will let nobody enter the Hilltop...unless they say.."I am a Kindred Spirit"!<br />Now Elvira was the gatekeeper...the Duchess gave her the key...Elvira took it, clutched it to her chest..and disappeared in the bushes..the snow covered her tracks..<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5VURZce_q40TfcQWD6DKnwt7q_ZwJEsCeNVOe05F-vj3uhob8H-aXOe2RYcXPjkz-dh4hRWrc2y3inxnJKkRgkawmFQOC1H-9OTaq3jO-doH0XJMWawSgtGaScR46C51c4xqWadpq8A/s1600-h/0C3DA75B-C961-42CE-8009-B5C10C4CC379.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5VURZce_q40TfcQWD6DKnwt7q_ZwJEsCeNVOe05F-vj3uhob8H-aXOe2RYcXPjkz-dh4hRWrc2y3inxnJKkRgkawmFQOC1H-9OTaq3jO-doH0XJMWawSgtGaScR46C51c4xqWadpq8A/s200/0C3DA75B-C961-42CE-8009-B5C10C4CC379.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416131582514459586" /></a><br />In the middle of the forest our friends gathered ..<br /><br />-Goodness..its so cold..shivered Miss Moussie..I decided to wear my new bonnet..I made it myself...isn't it lovely?<br />-You always look lovely in pink croaked Gustave...as you can see I am wearing my snow boots..<br />Good thinking dear Gustave ,twittered Miss Moussie..I find them very cool...<br />-Very wise to dress warmly,said the Dutchess...I believe winter is now getting serious..I am wearing my winter woollies too..<br /><br />-Will you stop babbling about cloths...said the little Gnome...there is no time for fashion chit chat..we have to find the Jiffy trail...<br /><br />-This will be easy mmmy ffriend..stammered a voice from under a litle pile of snow..<br />-C...croaked Gustave...and he wiped away the snow from Mr C's nose...C,old chap...so good to see you...are you coming with us..<br />-No, my friends..said Mr C Mole...but I am going to show you the way to the Jiffy trail...last time we traveled I made a map...to always find the Jiffy trail back in a Jiffy....just follow me..<br /><br />There they all went ..following the mole..through the falling snow..<br /><br />-Who is this funny looking guy...asked the Gnome walking next to the Dutchess at the end of the row...<br />-That my dear Gnome is Mr C...he is ever so clever and he sees everything..<br />-AAh,said the Gnome..I see,that explains the glasses..<br /><br />Mr C now stood still in front of two big Pine trees...the trees were standing very close together...there branches all tangled up in each other..<br /><br />This is it...said C...this is were we have to say goodbye..this were you have to write your destination mail...<br /><br />-O Yes...the mail...said the Dutchess..whilst she opened her bag...I did write a little something...on the back of this Christmas card....I wrote..<br /><br />Nowhere or bust...<br /><br />....and then all the names of the persons who want to travel...Miss Moussie..Gustave..Gnome..and little old me of course..<br /><br />-Then you are all set tto travel the Jiffy trail..its right before your noses said Mr C, pointing at the Pine's.<br />-Really ?..twittered Miss Moussie..I can only see trees...and snow...<br />With the Christmas card in her hand the Dutchess walked towards the Pine trees..the trees stepped aside to let her through..and there it was...The Jiffy trail...<br /><br />-O how marvelous, squeaked Miss Moussie ...she grabbed Gustave by his arm...come on my brave frog in boots..lets go..<br />-Just a minute..said the Dutchess....My dear C...thank you so much for bringing us here...you are a darling..<br />-You travel sssafe now..stammered C...when you come back there will be a wonderful diner waiting at the Hilltop...and my friend Horatio Hog promised to put up the Christmas tree in the Hall..so ,don't wwworry ....bey bey..and Mr C.....who never was very good in saying goodbye...quickly disappeared back into his secret tunnel.....to pop out again half a second later...again stammering ...bbey bey... bey....I,m going now...bey..<br /><br />-Bey dear C..said the Dutchess...see you soon...She waved ,and C was gone...they still could hear him saying goodbye underground....<br /><br />-Oke.....NOW can we go...asked the Gnome ..impatiently..<br />-We have to call the pumpkins..twittered Miss Moussie...so we can give them our mail...<br />-I don't think we are going to meet the pumpkins today,croaked Gustave...something completely different is coming our way......LOOK!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwsSXj65dBLJdfio2JrYlrVSVcHWszr7YgEHFcpKZHs4e-tfmDkYFcpY67Fn7lb6zwUn9TfIrUwAzcOpVurApJIP41BtFr3F5OrIpVIAafaBVx40Bf1uyfJO5EdxJ5b_VuCMaE0Tl8uvg/s1600-h/Foto0440.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwsSXj65dBLJdfio2JrYlrVSVcHWszr7YgEHFcpKZHs4e-tfmDkYFcpY67Fn7lb6zwUn9TfIrUwAzcOpVurApJIP41BtFr3F5OrIpVIAafaBVx40Bf1uyfJO5EdxJ5b_VuCMaE0Tl8uvg/s320/Foto0440.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416205217951541522" /></a><br />O my....its a snowman...twittered Miss Moussie...he is waving with his hat...<br /><br />-You can't think how happy I am to see you, shouted the snowman from far..I felt a bit melancholy.......HOWDY to you all.....my name is MOODY..<br />-Well HOWDY..Moody....responded the Dutchess...are we supposed to give you our mail...?<br /><br />Sometimes I'm up and sometimes down<br />Sometimes I laugh and sometimes I frown<br />Sometimes I'm happy and sometimes sad<br />Sometimes too many birds are circling my head<br />My name is Moody and I'm a bit out of balance<br />But I will deliver your mail....I consider it a challenge.<br /><br />Then after singing this wonderful moody song...the snowman held his hat in front of the Dutchess...<br />-Put it in please...he smiled...you will be of in a Jiffy..and then he started to cry icy tears..<br /> <br />-O dear,you poor darling..twittered miss moussie...are you oke..are you sure we can leave...isn't there anything we can do..<br />-Don't mind me ,said Moody...I am a bit unstable today...I will be fine..just fine..You can go now..and then he started to giggle...in fact he couldn't stop..he almost fell on the ground laughing...<br /><br />-Come on you guys...said the Dutches...hold on to me..stay close together now...I am going to drop the mail....<br /><br />And so she did...the minute the postcard reached the bottom of Moody's hat..our little troupe disappeared<br /><br />-O gosh...I am alone again...said Moody..and in between the giggles he cried big tingling icecicles.....O.. gosh....what a happy sound these tears make he said..and started to smile again...<br /><a href="http://linktonowhereland.blogspot.com/"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh68YmpQcTBCPCack3PP_DAsm17RtUttWCuZNISWXElkSKz5TcP6qhRqE3daaZ33bKXRXp-GpL_Zll5KtBKV0auyKDxDVfV1zb69d63c91XKpKU20wwazurxv2LKT97St11QLrqXJHDH8E/s1600-h/Foto0458.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh68YmpQcTBCPCack3PP_DAsm17RtUttWCuZNISWXElkSKz5TcP6qhRqE3daaZ33bKXRXp-GpL_Zll5KtBKV0auyKDxDVfV1zb69d63c91XKpKU20wwazurxv2LKT97St11QLrqXJHDH8E/s320/Foto0458.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417318244238046594" /></a></a><br /><br />First, let me say something about the weather in Nowhere....<br />Gusty winds,extreme snowfall,and very very chilly temperatures...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd70czk6txQrjTRFIaZLA8dZoiSi2pqPLC839ogakFwL2MTzMkAtg7sOfzBBZV4ui-hpCSioPGB62dJHco5_Gq3Ozcb64mXbd6u62yDXYeGEJZQcR_EYbqsQ5GeG01R2EcYNpimLc-zUqi/s1600-h/Foto0456.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd70czk6txQrjTRFIaZLA8dZoiSi2pqPLC839ogakFwL2MTzMkAtg7sOfzBBZV4ui-hpCSioPGB62dJHco5_Gq3Ozcb64mXbd6u62yDXYeGEJZQcR_EYbqsQ5GeG01R2EcYNpimLc-zUqi/s320/Foto0456.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417304475238070322" /></a><br /><br /> <br />-Where am I...squeaked Miss Moussie in a fright..its ever so cold and I can't see anything...hello ..help anybody...I am a helpless little Moussie..<br />-I believe we arrived in the middle of a snowstorm...shouted the Dutchess..whilst the snow was lashing in her face...<br />The wind was howling....and it was cold as ice...<br />-I hate snow...shivered the little Gnome..I am friezing my butt of down here..<br />-Me too....croaked Gustave....and he jumped up and tried to reach the pocket of the Dutchess''s coat...he missed the pocket..but did manage to hang on to the coat...<br />-Don't let go Gustave...said the dutchess...then she quickly picked op Miss Moussie and the Gnome...<br />The Gnome wiggled his way out of her hands and leaped under her hat..<br />-Dearest...said the Dutchess to Miss Moussie..I am going to put you in my pocket...<br />-O please do...twittered Miss Moussie...Snowstorms are not to be trusted...in fact they can be very dangerous...<br /> <br />A few feet away..high up in a tree....a big snowy white bear gazed in the distance...he hardly could see anything...but he heard a familiar voice...and a familiar croak...and a familiar squeak...This is it...he said...This is what I have been waiting for...<br /> <br />He walked toward the sound....and there appeared a little figure in a red coat...The Dutchess..staggering through the snow...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Tb8BilgrhhM8Okg6at3e4uNA-6DSrOA6dcAK1Fpmzre8v0sbitQEmfterHr6bg5n8pTFIUiQ62w8r7QbiJmpBEue8vaV7N1t9gEHGtSPHoC_g3G9BvanbbHt6kcsb3qWz9y1aCaszG7Y/s1600-h/Foto0461.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Tb8BilgrhhM8Okg6at3e4uNA-6DSrOA6dcAK1Fpmzre8v0sbitQEmfterHr6bg5n8pTFIUiQ62w8r7QbiJmpBEue8vaV7N1t9gEHGtSPHoC_g3G9BvanbbHt6kcsb3qWz9y1aCaszG7Y/s320/Foto0461.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417793009491397282" /></a><br />It was a joyful reunion of friends .....<br /><br />Moses,how wonderful to see you again,twittered Miss Moussie...dear friend ..there you are.....Its been a long time since you left the garden and traveled to Nowhere..I missed you so very very much..<br /><br />-And I YOU my sweet little moussie,...lets shake paws and hug....said Mozes with a happy face...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Tb8BilgrhhM8Okg6at3e4uNA-6DSrOA6dcAK1Fpmzre8v0sbitQEmfterHr6bg5n8pTFIUiQ62w8r7QbiJmpBEue8vaV7N1t9gEHGtSPHoC_g3G9BvanbbHt6kcsb3qWz9y1aCaszG7Y/s1600-h/Foto0461.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Tb8BilgrhhM8Okg6at3e4uNA-6DSrOA6dcAK1Fpmzre8v0sbitQEmfterHr6bg5n8pTFIUiQ62w8r7QbiJmpBEue8vaV7N1t9gEHGtSPHoC_g3G9BvanbbHt6kcsb3qWz9y1aCaszG7Y/s320/Foto0461.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417793009491397282" /></a><br />It was a joyful reunion of friends .....<br /><br />Tea,how wonderful to see you twittered Miss Moussie...and Mozes dear friend ..There you are...I missed you very very much..<br /><br />-And I you my sweet little mouse,...lets shake paws and hug....said Mozes with a happy face...<br /><br />A litle later...after tea...Tea asked ..<br /><br />-Dear Friends ,do tell us the reason of your visit...I heard the Gnome say something about an Alphabet..<br />-Yes my dear Tea..said the Dutchess...let me introduce you...and she opened her bag...<br /><br />There the Alphabet swooped out and fluttered round every body's head like little butterflies...<br /><br />-By George...said Rattus surprised...what have we here...<br /><br />US...<br /><br />spelled the Alphabet....whirling in the sky<br /><br />Mozes stepped forward...he didn't look at all pleased...<br /><br />-And just what are you doing here..he asked ,while he tried to grab some letters out of the blue......your supposed to gard the Hilltop !<br /><br />HELP US<br /><br />spelled the alphabeth...a bit shaky...they shivered in the cold icy air..<br /><br />Then the Gnome appeared from under our Duchess's hat.....<br />Listen folks...he said..listen....and sitting on the Duchess's head he told the story about the lost NO...and how it would be great and a deed of the up most importance if our Nowhere friends could help find it...<br /><br />There our friends stood...a silence fell between them when the Gnome stopped talking...<br />Mozes looked in the eyes of the Dutchess..Tea grabbed hold of Rattus arm....Gustave held his breath..Gretta was worried...Miss Moussie couldn't stand the suspense....and Raccoon was looking at Gustave, thinking...O yes,that was the guy who baked this marvelous pancakes..<br /><br />-WELL...whats it going to be...asked the Gnome impatiently...<br /><br />-I say we go NOW..twittered Miss Moussie...everybody who wants to go with me raise your hand...<br /><br />The Gnome raised his hand followed by the Dutchess,then Tea and Rattus...Gretta........Gustave....and Raccoon, who saw everybody raise there hands did the same...<br /><br />Mozes didn't respond...he started walking in the direction of Mount Almostthere.....<br /><br />-Mozes....asked the Dutchess ...are you not coming with us....<br />-Dearest..answered Mozes..I am already on my way..<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWR0of_sg_CcwoLa6oAz15bOSz7I8z8CZLtem37yfXoZXvZsulqLst6PJgHZ7isWZ_M6gCgGk-w3O6_eK7QAdn9TlVM_W42MgXeUFQYH_2VZdI_HB5bMrXDC41qXLUu4PDwIPORteSBdyy/s1600-h/icepalace.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 288px; height: 235px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWR0of_sg_CcwoLa6oAz15bOSz7I8z8CZLtem37yfXoZXvZsulqLst6PJgHZ7isWZ_M6gCgGk-w3O6_eK7QAdn9TlVM_W42MgXeUFQYH_2VZdI_HB5bMrXDC41qXLUu4PDwIPORteSBdyy/s400/icepalace.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418464578924484322" /></a><br /><br />Together they climbed mountain Almostthere...<br /><br />Of course it was Miss Moussie who couldn't stop twittering...<br /><br />-Are we almost there dear Mozes....I don't like to climb mountains..I find them very steep!<br />-I'LL help you.....said Raccoon,just hang on to me...<br />-So nice of you..twittered Miss Moussie...and smiled a very charming smile towards Raccoon...<br />-Its nothing ,really ..said Raccoon blushing...anything for a lovely lady..<br />-O..you rascal you..twittered Miss Moussie...you know you look very handsome with that mask..<br />-And I always thought you found masks to be very suspicious ...croaked Gustave hopping behind Miss Moussie.<br />-O NO squeaked Miss Moussie...not this one...<br /><br />After a while our little troupe reached the mountaintop...there they entered the Christal palace..the place where it could very well be possible to find the No..<br /><br />BEAR HUG<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQsbIZKJAZnnUczCbPpawDdNYC8Shj3nf2EL8A_b84yUCV-yVlYODNLajwdIfpZAp9tJv5pR0CcVWLOc_9yO3yR2Ai2os-YbP33KTUPWNZQzOe6dU7LCWBZB3y6KOCYoiB-3jEGNXFoovr/s1600-h/3115236227_3ca1aa6123.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQsbIZKJAZnnUczCbPpawDdNYC8Shj3nf2EL8A_b84yUCV-yVlYODNLajwdIfpZAp9tJv5pR0CcVWLOc_9yO3yR2Ai2os-YbP33KTUPWNZQzOe6dU7LCWBZB3y6KOCYoiB-3jEGNXFoovr/s320/3115236227_3ca1aa6123.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418795314408580082" /></a><br /><br />-O my goodness twittered Miss Moussie...how beautiful ...but really, I wouldn't want to live here...to cold for a little Moussie like me..<br />-Its to cold for anyone to live here..said the Dutchess..I wonder if we will find the No inhere..<br />-If we do ,said Tea I think we will have to defrost it...<br />-Then...maybe a little tea would help..said Rattus..and he opened his (tea)bag..<br />-The Gnome..now sitting on the Dutchess her hat..looked around..took a big leap and then swung himself from icicle to icicle...<br />-O my ,said Gustave..that little fellow can jump....and him being a frog he jumped after the Gnome...just to show everybody he could jump like that too,and maybe even better...<br />-Gustave..dearest ...twittered Miss Moussie..come down from there...you are not used to leap from icicles..they can be very slippery..<br /> <br />Nobody noticed Gretta...who, on her own started to wander through the icy rooms...Its like there are a thousand mirrors...she whispered...its magical..<br />Standing before the biggest ice christal mirror in what looked like a ballroom...she made a little bow...Hello there, dear me...she said to herself...so nice to meet you....would you care for a little dance....Don't mind if I do, she answered herself...and there she went....waltzing like Mathilda....<br /> <br />-Everybody..listen ..said Mozes..there is someone missing...where did that cute little Gretta go...and he started calling.....GRETTA.......a a a .. a<br />-O how marvelous ,twittered Miss Moussie an echo...and she also started squeaking, GRETTA a a a ....WHERE ARE YOU....you you you ...<br />-Then the Gnome sitting very high up one an icicle started shouting too...<br />NO no no no NO o o o<br />-Then the whole troupe began to shout and chatter...just for the fun of it...and of course to find Gretta.....and the NO..<br />Soon it became a very loud echo concert....with a lot of ah''s and ooooh's..<br /> <br />In the icy ballroom Gretta was having a wonderful time....there, in the mirrors she saw a thousand Gretta's dancing....and...<br />Suddenly she stopped in the middle of a pirouette.......hanging and dangling from the ballroom chandelier she saw the NO....<br />-O No...she whispered....there it is...I have to go get the others.....<br />Quietly she tiptoed out of the room.......then she yelled......Tea tea tea....<br /> <br />-Stop shouting everybody...said Raccoon...do you hear that ....tea's ready....<br />-Its Gretta...said Tea...she needs help...<br />Gretta appeared..out of breath...she grabbed Mozes arm whilst saying ...I found it I found it......<br /> <br />A second later they all stood under the chandelier....The alphabet was whirling around it, spelling to many words at the same time... nobody could make any sense out of them..<br /> <br />Well...said the Gnome impatiently...who is gong to do the talking....or shall I say shouting..we have to shout the No down from there...<br /> <br />This shouting has got to have some meaning to work,said the Dutchess...we have to believe in it....and we could use some help...<br />Where are we going to find it...sighed Miss Moussie...its just us I am afraid..and where are we going to shout for...to give it meaning I mean...<br />-We are going to shout for Joy...said the Dutchess...<br />-Yes,and for HOPE said Rattus...<br />-And for love ,because that's what makes the world go round, said Tea with a big smile...<br />And so they did my dear reader and friend...and if you feel the same way ,then please let your voice be heard.....our friends need all the help they can get...<br /> <br />Our friends shouted...twittered..and croaked NO as loud as they could...and the echo helped by adding a couple of extra No's.....and then there was silence....<br /> <br />The alphabet got his act together and whirled the word....<br /> <br />WARDS<br /> <br />-That sounds disgusting..said Miss Moussie<br />-Could be something in space ...croaked Gustave..<br /> <br />But it was something completely different....<br /> <br />The No swooped up from the chandelier and formed together with his alphabet the word..<br /> <br />ONWARDS..<br /> <br />HURRAY...twittered Miss Moussie...it worked...<br />Group Hug ....shouted the Gnome to everybody's surprise...<br />And onwards we go ..said the Dutchess.....time to go .<br /> <br />Home.......spelled the alphabet..before...<br /><br /> CHRISTMAS<br /><br />Please<a href="http://thegardenoftheduchess.blogspot.com/"> visit </a>and join us in our very merry Christmas party...the more the merrier!The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-74690240157892730142009-11-08T22:40:00.000+01:002009-11-09T12:53:41.920+01:00Mouse Tail.....One's upon a time a long long time ago..there was a bear...he lived alone in a dark pinewood forest.<br />Days went by,months went by,years went by and the bear lost track of time...He remembered being a young strong bear catching fish in the river,he remembered being a young cub, playing, catching butterflies..but now, the bear was very old and tired, and he knew there wasn't much time left for to make new memories for him to remember later....this made him very sad. If only he could stop time from passing by...<br />One very beautiful summer night the bear wandered trough the grasslands...he walked slowly...enjoying the night air and the light of the full moon standing proudly above him...o..those summer nights..and that beautiful starry sky..at that moment the bear made a wish. He wished he could be a star...a star who would shine for ever and ever..How tired he was...he had to lay down for a moment in the grass..his eyes gazing at the sky...Look.. there he saw a very bright star...did this star just move, or did his eyes play tricks on him...no ,it did move...It could be a falling star...but no...it was falling down very slow...it was kind of gliding like a leaf in the wind.<br />The bear didn't dare to move...mesmerized....spellbound...he just knew something wonderful was bound to happen.<br />The shiny little star came closer and closer...and then the bear heard that this little star had a voice..a clear crystal sound, like from a silver bell. And this sweet little voice was saying..'Lay still..very still, for I am going to land on your nose..'<br />And so the little star landed....and the bear holding his nose high up in the air was trying to see wat exactly had landed there...this wasn't very easy..<br />'Hello there'..he heard the little voice say...and he felt a flutter on his nose that almost made him sneeze..<br />"O no,dear bear,please...hold your breath..you might sneeze me off into the pine forest...and I came all the way down here to ask you a very important question..'<br />"What question might that be"...asked the bear very curious...still trying to get a clear view of what was sitting there on his nose...<br />"I came to ask you if you would like to go with me up into the air and help me ...I am the fearless gatekeeper in the sky and I could use some help from a big strong and very wise bear...<br />"Help you...how can I do that"said the bear,looking very cross eyed..now beginning to see a tiny winged creature ...could this creature be a ....mouse? Could there really be a mouse with wings..sitting on his nose?<br />'Dear bear'...said the creature...'we need your wisdom to guide people..you know we live in troubled times and when people are lost they need someone to help them find there way...they need something that will be there for ever and ever..as a beacon..a lifeline..A star..'<br />'A star'...the bear jumped up for joy..'I am going to be a star'?<br />"O my goodness"...squeaked the little voice,"now look what you did,this is not a good start in helping someone finding her way...Now I"m lost in the clover...please pick me up.."<br />The bear looked down and there he saw a little light in the grass..very gently he stretched out his paw ..'Come on' said the bear...'You can climb on safely...I promise not to jump up again..'And there on his paw a tiny shiny fairy mouse climbed up...'Now I can see you better,smiled the bear...you are a mouse..'<br />"No no no...I am a fairy mouse, a fairy with a tale ..And I do hope this tale will have a happy ending ..so please dear Bear will you come with me ...You will be not just one star ...because you are so big and strong you are going to be seven shining stars and when people look up to the sky they will see you there, shining, for ever and ever and they will feel safe and sheltered'.<br />"This is a very important job",said the bear....'well,I always wanted to be a star..and seven stars..o my, who could resist..My sweet fairy mouse, my answer is going to be..Yes... It would be a great honor..'<br />'Then,my dear bear friend we have to hurry..time flies..please, let me sit on your nose again because I have to give you a kiss...after that...lift off ..the sky is the limit my dear bear friend..'<br />Sitting on the bears nose the fairy mouse gave her furry friend a sweet tiny kiss on his forehead and the very next minute they where gone....<br />Off to eternity...and until this day..and for ever and ever ..you can see the big bear standing there, shining, in his sheltering sky..<br /><br />.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rNhd_HizgWPkxcTmXxs_URDqvagFv2_OgBbsUiTASHvgfkqVwxfrt44Gs4oblikKEpdka53sXx-L_BApaAd5VxtIAEDAsxE008ZmGtinoAFvIZBLup9PLrW1c53O3RlNld2ZsKukysc/s1600-h/68175915_7gU9Nz8S.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rNhd_HizgWPkxcTmXxs_URDqvagFv2_OgBbsUiTASHvgfkqVwxfrt44Gs4oblikKEpdka53sXx-L_BApaAd5VxtIAEDAsxE008ZmGtinoAFvIZBLup9PLrW1c53O3RlNld2ZsKukysc/s200/68175915_7gU9Nz8S.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367573560437366562" /></a>The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-43997564159003844582009-11-01T12:33:00.013+01:002017-10-31T15:48:17.466+01:00The Pumkin on the Hiltop<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
On a beautiful Autumn Morning Miss Mousie was reading her newspaper...<br />
<br />
O my..Do you know what the days news is...you are not going to believe this...there seems to be a haunted Pumpkin on the Hill-top..wow...I hate anything haunted..it's too suspicious..and I can't stand the suspense..O dear...Well,I am not going near that spooky pumpkin...wonder if Gustave knows..he likes scary things..<br />
<br />
Now..after reading the news everybody is talking about The haunted pumpkin on the Hill!.And where do you go to hear the latest gossip...yes..to the barbershop!<br />
<br />
-Dear Sir Hog..please sit still..its only your beard that needs a trim..<br />
<br />
In the barbershop chair sits Sir H. Hog...nobody knows where the H stands for..well,we believe it to be Horatio..but we are not sure..Sir Hog comes from a very noble family..royalty he wants us to believe..<br />
<br />
-Sir Hog..please ,why are you so jumpy today..<br />
-Why?Do you even have to ask..I want to go to the Haunted Pumpkin..did you see it last night..it was glowing in the dark...I tell you,it was staring at me with two creepy piercing eyes..I didn't dare to go near it ..but now at daytime I will go and take a look..<br />
-O my dear Sir...would this be wise.....rumour said spooky noises are coming out of there..like chains rattling..and the whispering of voices..<br />
-Well,somebody has to go there...don't worry I will be fine..I...Sir H. Hog come from a very noble family..my grandfather was a Knight..and my mother always told me I am just like him..a fearless creature..<br />
<br />
And after saying this Sir H Hog jumped out of his seat and headed in the direction of the Haunted Pumpkin on the Hill...<br />
<br />
It was still dark when Miss Moussie awoke...there was a blustery wind howling outside her window..<br />
Goodness,she twittered,what dreadful weather..So happy I did all of my shopping yesterday...now I can stay inside today with a cup of tea and a book.<br />
She tried to get back to sleep but the wind was rocking her little houssie and cried many lyrics..<br />
Then, there was a sudden knock on the door...and again...and again!<br />
Who could this be..?<br />
Miss Moussie heard a panicking voice calling..."Please, Miss Moussie open up..Its Me.. WHO!<br />
As quick as possible Miss Moussie jumped in her slippers and ren to open the door.<br />
There stood WHO..out of breath..with a bewildered look on his face..<br />
<br />
-The Pumpkin ,he stammered,the Pumpkin...and poor Horatio!<br />
-What are you trying to tell me dear Who..did something happen to Sir Hog?<br />
-I saw him in the forest..heading towards the Haunted Pumpkin..I warned him not to go there... I said to him ..-.'there is more between heaven and earth then we know my friend Horatio'-....this could be very dangerous...but he wouldn't listen..and now he is gone...he went into the Pumpkin..I waited and waited..but Horatio disappeared, then I heard a creepy voice cackle... GO AWAY........<br />
<br />
WHO crached on the sofa..leaving Miss Moussie standing in the doorway ..in the blustering wind..now what to do.....<br />
<br />
The morning after this stormy night was glorious ..the wind had decided to have a rest after his blustery night ,the sun was shining,and the garden lookt magical in golden autumn colors.<br />
It could have been a wonderful autumn day if it wasn't for the sad news WHO brought home ...something terrible had happened..Sir Horatio Hog was missing...probably swallowed by the haunted Pumpkin on the Hilltop.<br />
There they were...all the little,and not so little garden creatures,sitting in Miss Moussie's kitchen..all with troubled hearts...<br />
<br />
-I just don't know what to say..said Gustave..and he took another bite from his fifth cookie...<br />
-Well,you do know how to eat cookies...twittered Miss Moussie,how can you eat in a moment like this..<br />
-It's my nerves,its my nerves..so sorry ,croaked Gustave..but when I eat I think better..the cookies are just what I need..food for the brain..and I don't ask why you are polishing your silver like crazy..I suppose you are nervous too...<br />
-We better come up with an idea ,said Elvira..looking very squashed and flushed,sitting between the kitchen table and the burning stove..its very hot in here...<br />
-WHO,laying on the sofa in a very dramatic pose,didn't say much..he was still recovering from the shock...<br />
<br />
What ever will they do...lets not disturb them any further and come back later...hopefully they will find a way to help Sir Hog...anyway..something else is puzzling me...did you see Mr C...he isn't in Miss Moussie's kitchen..<br />
<br />
In the middle of taking a bite from his sixt cookie,Gustave frose....Then he jumped up and tryed to say something with his mouth full... "HMMPFINWTDOOO,MPFCMNNE"....he said, and then he ran out of the kitchen....<br />
-What was he saying..squeaked Miss MOussie and she hurried after him...<br />
-I believe it was what they call a text message...said Elvira following Miss Moussie..like..I KNW WHT TO DO..COME ON....<br />
-You mean he has a plan...twittered Miss Moussie...thank goodness!<br />
<br />
Gustave ran towards the pond....stopped, and then took a dive into the green water..<br />
-Gustave ,squeaked Miss Moussie...I am not going to follow you in there...you know I can't swim, please come out and tell us what you are planning to do..<br />
Elvira and Miss Moussie stood ther impatiently waiting for Gustave to emerge from the pond ....they waited and waited..<br />
-Gustave this isn't funny anymore..twittered Miss Moussie..no time for jokes..we have to do something RIGHT now..<br />
At that very moment a THING emerged from the deep dark water...it was green and slimy...with a sort of tentacles waving around...and it was hissing and puffing like a dragon...<br />
-O.M.G...squeaked Miss Moussie grabbing Elvira by here tail trying to pull her away...A Swamp thing..run for your life..<br />
But Elvira being very brave and clever didn't move an inch...she saw what we can't see at this moment but she saw this was not the terrible swamp thing emerging but ..Gustave !<br />
<br />
Gustave the swamp thing climbed out of the pond..'Friends'..he said whilst dripping water and slime and waving his tentacles...Friends...we are going to beat this Haunted Pumkin with his own wapon...<br />
-And that is,asked Miss Moussie....<br />
-Creepiness..answered Gustave...we are going to be very scary..and demand the Pumpkin to let Sir Hog go....I just know this will work...<br />
-O Gustave you are wonderful..said Elvira...I love it when a plan comes together...lets gather everybody...we are going to be Swampthings...<br />
Miss Moussie was very quiet...she wasn't so sure this plan could work..and she wasn't so sure she would like to be a swamp thing....too wet..and too slimy..yak.<br />
<br />
Ours later...In the middle of the forest,in the moonlight, on the Hilltop, we see Mr C...what is he doing there..does he know that he is standing just a few feet away from the Haunted Pumpkin? Somebody should warn him...this could be dangerous..Mr C is acting very strange...running around with a shovel and digging a hole in the ground..Maybe he is making a new entrance to his labyrinth...or maybe he is burying something..or.....someone...!<br />
<br />
Under a full moon Who hoovered high over the tree tops..he was searching the grounds..he felt a great responsibility for the safety of all the little Hilltop Creatures..and he made a promise to himself to watch the Haunted Pumpkin 24/7..<br />
What was that..a dark shadow moving under the bushes...Who made a dive..gliding on his brown feathered wings...he landed ever so quiet on a branch of the big Chestnut tree..he looked down..and who was it WHO saw...Yes...Mr C..<br />
<br />
-Its C...whispered WHO to himself...this can't be good...If I don't warn him the Pumpkin might eat him like he did Sir Hog...<br />
-Whoo hoo,whoo hoo..whood WHO...C ,can you see me ,I am up here..Whoo hoo..<br />
Mr C didn't respond,he just kept on digging and digging..<br />
-Who who...C ...WHO whood again...then he picked some chestnuts from the tree and started throwing to get Mr C's attention....one did hit Mr C right on his behind..!<br />
-Who ddid tthat...stammered Mr C..waving his shovel through the air..<br />
-Me,that's who....said WHO ..it's me up here....My dear friend C ..do you know you are in a very dangerous place ..if you look behind you, you can see the Haunted Pumpkin glowing in the dark..please keep away from there or you might end up like Sir Hog..'<br />
-Who do you think you are attacking me with chestnuts in the middle of the night,said C irritated...I am working here can't you see....please, just let me be..<br />
And C..started digging again....minding his own buisness...and what could this buiness be ..Who knows..well, that is ,WHO didn't know..he flew back to the garden to tell his friends all about this strange encounter with Mr C on the Hilltop!<br />
<br />
For the second time this week WHO banged on Miss Moussie door...and again in the middle of the night...<br />
<br />
-Who is it...Miss Moussie squeaked with a very sleepy voice...GO AWAY, I was dreaming the most beautiful dream..<br />
-Its me ,WHO...so sorry to disturb you again..but what I just saw in the forest looked very suspicious and I had to come and tell you right away..<br />
-Suspicious you say..o dear ..Just a sec..and Miss Moussie jumped out of bed into her robe..pink ,with bleu forget me nots..then,swiftly, she opened the door. <br />
-I am so happy to see you ,said WHO,a few minutes ago I had a strange encounter with Mr C..as you know we haven't seen much of him lately..but there he was ...digging a hole..just a few feet away from the Haunted Pumpkin..! <br />
-Goodness,twittered Miss Moussie,dousn't he know what has happened to Sir Hog...we have to warn him.. <br />
-I did, I did...but he wouldn't listen..he told me to let him be..sighed WHO and then crashed on the sofa....<br />
-Lets wait until daylight twittered Miss Moussie, then you and I are going to visit Gustave at the Pond..maybe he knows why Mr C is acting so very strange..<br />
And so they did..on the red sofa,sitting on cushions of violet blue,they drank some tea with honey and ate a piece of walnut bread with raspberry marmalade to ease there nerves.<br />
Then, at the crack of dawn, they headed in the direction of the Pond.......WHO hoovered over the tree tops with Miss Moussie on his back...<br />
<br />
-You can land now ,Miss Moussie twittered holding on to her new hat,green..with white Lillie's of the valley.."I can see the pond ..isn't it beautiful in this morning light..I see little floating stars..<br />
-It's magical..said WHO..it looks like Gustave sprinkled some fairy dust on the water.... Who landed softly under a willow tree.. <br />
-Care full now..we mustn't fall into the pond..squeaked Miss Moussie ..whilst she stood close to the edge of the water ...and there they where...again..calling and waiting for Gustave to come out of the water...Lets hope this time he will not emerge as the terrible swamp thing.. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvRVXwVxbJoLZQhcL_vS0abQ1PDotF-4VisX2QqutTYjuXKjOAPotILbGh_z4OJcGjU7Dxj-Uh1pOsEiHrtYYGnLz6lqSgzu1tZna26ZOLg0UiYcKt0qxwsx_MhOY2pxkx_DDxeeuLdiM/s1600-h/Foto0385.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397953077764299474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvRVXwVxbJoLZQhcL_vS0abQ1PDotF-4VisX2QqutTYjuXKjOAPotILbGh_z4OJcGjU7Dxj-Uh1pOsEiHrtYYGnLz6lqSgzu1tZna26ZOLg0UiYcKt0qxwsx_MhOY2pxkx_DDxeeuLdiM/s400/Foto0385.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></a><br />
This time they didn't have to wait...Gustave jumped out of the water not even a second after they called him..<br />
<br />
-There you are,he croaked happily..right on time..everything is ready..the Dress rehearsal can begin....Just you wait and see what a wonderful creations I made last night...I think I would make a great designer of Haute Couture..<br />
Step this way please...And before the eyes of Miss Moussie and WHO...Gustave,from under the water Lillie's, revealed his Swamp Line...<br />
-O wait for me ..called a little voice from under the lilac bush...It was Elvira..<br />
'Am I still on time to fit my Swamp dress..'<br />
-Just showing the latest design...croaked Gustave proudly...then we can start the fitting..you can pick one my dear...see which one you like best..<br />
<br />
Who and Miss Moussie where flabbergasted....so Gustave and Elvira were serious about this creepy swamp thingy plan...<br />
Miss Moussie was the first to speak..<br />
-Gustave,your swamp creations are amazing,but I am not going to try them on..they are ever so wet and slimy..so sorry but I will have to disappoint you this time..maybe WHO would like to give it a try..?<br />
-Did you ever see a flying swamp thing ,I don't think so ,said WHO..a little nervous...<br />
-That's just why this plan is going to work,croaked Gustave...nobody ever saw a flying swamp thing...dear WHO..you will scare the..bliep..out of that Haunted Pumpkin..you will be our hero..<br />
-I will..well then ..I could always give it a try..said WHO..do you have anything with wings my friend Gustave..I do love all the magical shades of green you used,you truly are an artist..<br />
<br />
While Elvira,WHO,and Gustave were very busy fitting and adjusting there swamp costumes....Miss Moussie was having her doubts..would this work..could they save Sir Hog by scaring The Haunted Pumpkin...and shouldn't she be a part of this rescuing swampthing team..was it even possible they could do it without her...somebody had to take charge..<br />
-Oke darlings,she squeaked...I'm in...please Gustave..give me one of your marvelously wet and slimy creations..<br />
<br />
About two ours ,and a lot to do about nothing later...our little troup was dressed to impress...!<br />
<br />
-Look at you ,said Gustave to WHO...MR Creepiness himself...you are the most swampy swamp thing I ever did see...<br />
-And how many DID you see dear Gustave,twittered Miss Moussie...did you...EVER..see a swamp thing in real life...<br />
-No Miss...croaked Gustave,but I saw many in my imagination and that's what counts..<br />
Well, this was an argument Miss Moussie didn't dare to argue so she started to rearrange her tentacles...and she straightened her waterlily hat..<br />
Then.. WHO flapped his majestic wings..creating a whirl of slime and muddy water..<br />
EEEEEUuWW...squeaked Miss MOussie....WHO ,go do this somewhere else...I all ready took a shower today...<br />
-You certainly don't look like you did ..laughed WHO..and the others laughed with him..<br />
-Not funny...twittered Miss MOussie...and she started to walk...I am going...<br />
There she went...a little tiny swamp creature with a tail....disappearing in to the forest..leaving a slimy wet trail...<br />
-lets follow her guys..croaked Gustave...<br />
-Yes, lets..said Elvira...before she gets in trouble..<br />
<br />
So now there were three swamp creatures running through the garden...green ghostly things in a hurry...<br />
On Hilltop Hall all was still very peaceful and quiet....When you look up..to the window on the left...you can see someone is opening the curtains...This must be our Dutchess...yes,there she is ...looking out of the window...just in time to see these peculiar creatures dashing through the morning mist.....<br />
<br />
-Lets just go immediately and straight to the haunted pumpkin...squeaked Miss Moussie while running...I think in daylight this creepy thing won't look so creepy...<br />
-You are absolutely right Miss,croaked Gustave out of breath...lets do it...and scare to wits out of that great big orange balloon..<br />
-YEEE,yelled Elvira...we are the Pumpkin busters....repeat after me...when there's something strange in your neighbourhood.... Who are you gonna call...PUMPKINBUSTERS..<br />
And above the misty clouds they heard the mighty swamp wings of WHO swirling ...and a brave voice yelling...GERONIMO.......<br />
<br />
Our little garden creatures were ever so brave and full of courage..determent to go and save there friend Sir Horatio Hog..and..also very important....to find out why Mr C Mole was acting so strange lately....digging holes in the middle of the night..<br />
<br />
The fog was getting thicker and thicker...Soon our little garden friends couldn't see where they were going..<br />
-Goodness,twittered Miss Moussie...Stay close together darlings...better grab each others tentacles..Gustave..dearest..that's my tail...well never mind ...just don't let go now...<br />
<br />
Miss Moussie ,Gustave,and Elvira walked very slowly and very close together through the misty forest..<br />
Above there heads they could hear WHO...calling..."Whoohoo where are you ...whoohoo,answer me...<br />
-We are down here...down here my friend..croaked Gustave very loud..<br />
-We should sing...said Elvira..then WHO can follow the sound..<br />
-O what a great idea darling..twittered Miss Moussie..and she started singing...<br />
Heigh ho, heigh ho..off to the pumpkin we go...heigh ho, heigh ho..<br />
Gustave and Elvira joined her ..and a lovely little choir sang loudly whilst walking through the foggy forest..Who just had to follow the sound of music..<br />
<br />
However...a few minutes later...Miss Moussie's singing came abruptly to an end...<br />
<br />
BOINGGG..Miss Moussie bumped into something...what appeared to be a signpost..<br />
-O.M.G..squeaked Miss Moussie...a bump..<br />
-A What..asked Gustave..a bump..<br />
-Yes on my head...look..I believe this is going to be a big bump..<br />
-I believe its a signpost ..said Elvira surprised..but I can't read the sign because of the fog..<br />
-A bump as big as a sing post..O.M.G..squeaked Miss Moussie..I have to get my mirror out of my purse..<br />
Then WHO appeared out of the mist..he circled three times round the signpost ,and then came down with this message..listen..<br />
<br />
This path to the Pumpkin leads<br />
Follow if you dare..<br />
<br />
-How dares this silly signpost...telling us what to dare or not to dare...said WHO..<br />
-I don't like signposts twittered Miss Moussie ,I think they are very suspicious..you never know if they are telling the truth..<br />
-We are going to follow that path..croaked Gustave...<br />
-Yeeeh,yelled Elvira..watch out Pumpkin....here we come....<br />
<br />
They walked and walked and walked....but there didn't seem to come an end to the path they were following...Our swampthings began to get tired..<br />
-I don't know about you ,said Elvira...but I don't look very scary anymore...<br />
-We should rest for a while,croaked Gustave..when one is tired one can not be creepy.....<br />
-Lets take five,twittered Miss Moussie,and I mean just five because it's getting dark soon...<br />
<br />
WHO landed next to his friends..bringing them some chestnuts he picked on the way..<br />
-That's great,said Gustave..lets roast them..I will build a fire..<br />
-Well,this is going to take more than five minutes..twittered Miss Moussie, but we do need the rest to get our strenght back so we can attack the Pumpkin.. <br />
It was very quiet in the forest...there was no wind....not a leaf was stirring...there was just the sound of the crackling fire..Our friends didn't speak..they were staring in to the dancing flames..alone with there thoughts..<br />
Then, suddenly WHO lifted his head..and turned around...did he just hear something..a strange sound came from under that blackberry bush...there...listen..<br />
Miss Moussie,Gustave and Elvira didn't seem to notice..<br />
WHO decited to go and take a look....he walked slowly towards the blackberry bush..crawled under it and then...gave our friends a very big fright by yelling...WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.......<br />
-Who,me...what who ....WHO what..stammered Gustave hopping up and down...WHO, where are you..<br />
Miss Moussie sat as frozen on the ground...she couldn't move ,she couldn't speak...and she was thinking..no.. she couldn't even think anymore..<br />
And Elvira...she immediately ran to the very spot where WHO had disappeared...<br />
-WHO,she called out...WHO..and then almost fell in a big hole from which she heard the voice from WHO answer..'I am down here...I fell in some stupid hole,I bet you its from Mr C..<br />
First Miss Moussie swallowed almost a whole chestnut,and then got back in action...<br />
-WHO,darling are you oke..can you see anything down there..is it very dark and creepy..do tell us how we can get you out of there..<br />
-I am fine,I can see clearly now, there is a light at the end of the tunnel..and I don't want to get out..I want to go to the light..answered WHO..<br />
-O NO....he is going towards the light, we are loosing him..twittered Miss Moussie dramatically.<br />
-Don't be silly Miss,croaked Gustave..he is just fine...WHO ,he called....wait there....we are coming..Come on friends...I believe WHO found a short cut..and with a bit of luck we can find Mr C. down there..<br />
Gustave jumped very frog like into the hole..Elvira followed with a very elegant squirrelly jump...and Miss Moussie followed very Miss Moussie like..carefully stepping over the edge.....the three of them tumbled down...landing at WHO's feet.<br />
Nice ...said WHO..so far so good fellows..now, lets find out what's at the end of this tunnel.WHO took the lead...him being the biggest and the creepiest ..<br />
There was a bright light shining at the end of the tunnel..first he light was red..then green..then orange..<br />
-Strange place for a traffic light..mumbled WHO..<br />
Coming closer to the light they heard loud rattling noises..<br />
-WHO, WHO,whispered Gustave..stop..I think we are very close to the pumpkin..I heard that creepy rattle before...<br />
They all stopped in their tracks....listening to the rattling of the chains and then they heard a laughter...and this laughter came from the end of the tunnel...<br />
-It's coming closer, squeaked Miss Moussie ,shaking like a leaf...it's the Pumpkin Monster....I want to get out of here...<br />
-We came to save Sir Hog,and that's what we will do..monster or no monster..said Gustave in a firm tone of voice..stand tall my friends..we can do it...<br />
And so our brave friends stood there.. paw in paw....ready to take charge..<br />
A shadow appeared at the end of the tunnel...it was small..round..and prickly...followed by another one..somewhat bigger..with glasses...<br />
Now the laughter changed in a loud scream....a scream for help...<br />
-Help Help...screamed the two shadows....Monsters in the tunnel...help..and they turned around and ran away...<br />
-Well,that was easy..croaked Gustave..we scared them away..piece of cake..<br />
-Goodness...twittered miss Moussie..these screams sounded familiar..I could swear one of them was from Sir Hog..<br />
-Yes..said Elvira ,and the other one from Mr C...<br />
-Did we just scare our friends away, said WHO in disbelieve..<br />
-Follow them...no time to loose, twittered Miss Moussie, and off she went...running as fast as her little moussie feet could run..yelling..Stop ...Sir Hog..Mr C..its me...<br />
<br />
Up ahead in the tunnel the two shadows ran for there life...they hadn't seen such creepy monsters before in their whole life..<br />
Said one shadow to another...C...listen ,this monster is making a very familiar squeaking sound ...listen..<br />
-By jolly...friend Horatio...could this be our dear Miss Moussie...answered the other shadow..now standing still...<br />
Horatio and C..waited...waited to see who was running after them....<br />
<br />
WHO....they called out together...because who was the first one coming around the bend..WHO..flapping his swamp wings..WHO,old chap...what are you doing here..and why are you looking so very green,are you sick..we almost didn't recognise you at all..<br />
-Goodness..squeaked Miss Moussie ..arriving after WHO...and what may I ask are YOU two doing here...we were ever so worried ..Sir Hog..are you oke..and dear C..why did you act so mysteriously lately..<br />
-Did you two escape..croaked Gustave..<br />
-Yes,do tell..was it very scary in this Haunted Pumpkin..asked Elvira exited..<br />
<br />
-Escape..mysteriously...I am afraid I don't understand a word you are saying..said Horatio...we are fine...I believe I can't say this about you the way you look and all.....<br />
-Well,one thing is correct said C..it all has to do with a Pumpkin,bet you can't guess what it is..<br />
-C..croaked Gustave,no time for riddles...Reveal your secret...NOW!<br />
_Oke Oke..said C...it supposed to be a surprise...but come on then, follow me...and you will see..<br />
At the end of the tunnel there was an opening.....and when our gang stepped out into the forest this is what they saw....A PUMPKIN ROLLERCOASTER....<br />
<br />
So...this was why Mr C had acted to suspicious...and why Sir Horatio had disappeared...they both..in secret made a Rollercoaster Pumpkin...how marvelous...Would you like to join our sweet garden creatures for a ride....come on lets have fun ..together we make this a day to remember...You can buy your free tickets at the free lemonade stand...All's well that ends well...and wasn't this a wonderful ending of a great adventure....<br />
Stay warm and stay happy my friends........</div>
The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-3159530519418449812009-10-17T23:30:00.016+02:002009-10-18T23:17:50.931+02:00Nowhere..There they all went...through the forest ..in the dark...Miss Moussie was glad it didn't rain...in here marvelously pink dress she shuffled carefully over the dark forest paths...they just came back from the theatre..had a magical evening, but now were very tired..longing to be home in there soft comfy beds...Mozes did lead the way...he alway's does in the forest..you can't possibly get lost when Mozes is there to guide you..So..Mozes first...then behind him..Gustave..hopping very happily...then Miss Moussie tiptoeing,and the last one in this parade was Mr.C...talking in himself...he does that quite a lot these days..<br />Miss Moussie, waving with her purse twittered nervously..'Yoehoe,dear Mozes,are we there yet...my feet are killing me'.<br />-In a minute Miss..answered Mozes...we have to take a turn to the right at the big hollow oak tree, and then we will be home in a jiffy..<br />-Isn't it a wonderful evening,Gustave croaked...Don't you just love the forest when its dark and mysterious...<br />-Do you all know what a jiffy is..Mr. C asked...bet you all don't know what a jiffy is...<br />-We don't..croaked Gustave,but we do know you are going to tell us...so Dear Mr C ..what's a jiffy.<br />-The time taken for light to travel..And light travels so very fast...faster then we can...unless....<br />-Unless what dear C..twittered Miss Moussie...almost tripping in some beetle droppings..<br />-Unless we find the secret Jiffy trail in this forest..I know it's there...my great great grandfather found it one's up on a time..<br />-I now all the paths in the forest, said mozes..never heard of a Jiffy trail...never did see one..<br />-Well, if you look for it you can't see it,said Mr C...it has to come to you...<br />-A path that has to come to you...giggled Gustave...like ,when you wistle and call..here... Jiffy Jiffy....He thought this to be so very funny tears were running down his chubby cheeks from laughing.<br />-yes, you are correct..absolutely correct dear Gustave..this is the way to do it...only you have to believe in it..magic only works when you believe in it, that's a scientific fact...and there Mr C stopt with his explanation of magic and jiffy's.<br />-I wished we could find one now..Miss Moussie sighed..<br />-And I wished you all stopped babbeling...mumbled Mozes...come on..put you best foot forward.<br />-I have no best foot left ..they are both protesting..and not willing at all..twittered Miss Moussie.<br />Mozes was loosing his patience..how to bring this little troup home as fast as possible..they were getting on his nerves..chattering..croaking and twittering..<br />He lifted his head to the sky..there he saw the big bear ..his favorite star..Hello friend...mozes said softly with a smile on his face..can you help me find a jiffy...I would like to get home with this gang as fast as I could.<br />As soon as Mozes had spoken these words...in front of him the trees and bushes began to move....the trees bowed and the bushes stept aside...and there suddenly a trail appeared..<br />Mozes abrubtly stood still as a statue...Gustave bumping into him..followed by Miss Moussie...and then Mr C....Silence....only the wind whispered through the tree tops..<br />'follow the trail...follow the trail..'<br />-O my goodness,Miss Moussie squeaked..we found it we found it...<br />Slowly Mr C walked towards the beginning of the path..."Come on he said exited..where are we waiting for,lets go...<br />-But, but where wil it lead us...Miss Moussie whispered very very softley..I don't think we should do this...one never know's where one will end...<br />Mozes took a deep breath.."We are going,he said with a firm tone of voice...stay close together....<br />Are you curious where this secret trail will lead them..then lets follow and click here...on the <a href="http://linktonowhereland.blogspot.com/">Link to Knowhere</a>..<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpw_3sfR1qgwi-QQ7SZaxXq13opYE8NHCj-XIpVsg633O_I3i6b3p4Jp7XW0KeHBWr73C9RVzrijmzzO2sLzUcXPrngsdD23yXCiM5aW92-vPFmos0iZ8EtyK9FMIja151d-TskoY0mpg/s1600-h/2424744956_9e080a26cf.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpw_3sfR1qgwi-QQ7SZaxXq13opYE8NHCj-XIpVsg633O_I3i6b3p4Jp7XW0KeHBWr73C9RVzrijmzzO2sLzUcXPrngsdD23yXCiM5aW92-vPFmos0iZ8EtyK9FMIja151d-TskoY0mpg/s320/2424744956_9e080a26cf.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375875112962811602" /></a><br />Mozes,being very brave went first..'come on you guys..follow me..lets follow the trail...'<br />-'Well',Miss Moussie squeaked..'if you don't mind I will wait here..and see what happens..you can always come back ...or call me when you are on the other end of the trail..',and she sat herself down in the clover...not thinking about her marvelously pink dress..or beetle droppings..She diceded not to move an inch!<br />-'But bbut',stottered Mr C...he always begins to stotter when he's very exited about something..'bbut...you can't stay here alone in the dark..we simply MUST follow the jiffy trail..it came to us for a reason..we have to find out where its going..'<br />-Yes,my dearest Miss,croaked Gustave...Listen to Mr C..please,just stay close to me...<br />-'I must be crazy listening to you all'..twittered Miss Moussie,'crazy to follow a trail that might go nowhere...going nowhere doesn't make sence at all!<br />-Oke then..if you feel that way then stay where you are...wait until daylight and find your way home to the garden on you own'...this was the calm and very wise Mozes speaking..he turned his back to Miss Moussie and started walking...followed by Mr C....who was talking to himself again...saying something like ..'this reminds me of book I read ..what was it again..ah, something with a yellow brick road...o my, I believe there were lions and tigers and bears..o my..<br />-Lions and tigers and bears...and you want me to go in there...Miss Moussie now squeaked very loud..o my goodness.<br />-Come on Miss...I'll protect you...croaked Gustave..and he grabt Miss Moussie by the hand..<br />So there they all went...through the forest ..in the dark.. following a trail..going Nowhere....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXqFUmp60c3_5J-3bM1Z1vU3Fx00PsUd8S96BRGSwHxtQhrI_QDJ9Zq7qra_VTD2mOXNA19QCm-ZDzwHWlApAm5Odz5eX7UsvxA6m_eqTLi0TomJfh18SJDDbCjEO55dYEEim75SxFVJo/s1600-h/pumpkin-7750.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXqFUmp60c3_5J-3bM1Z1vU3Fx00PsUd8S96BRGSwHxtQhrI_QDJ9Zq7qra_VTD2mOXNA19QCm-ZDzwHWlApAm5Odz5eX7UsvxA6m_eqTLi0TomJfh18SJDDbCjEO55dYEEim75SxFVJo/s320/pumpkin-7750.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376229180288683298" /></a><br />Slowly, step by step..Mozes followed the Jiffy trail..Mr C close behind him..then Gustave with Miss Moussie clinging on to his arm....<br />-I thought this was supposed to be a quick way to travel...twittered Miss Moussie...Mozes can you see where we are going...are we there yet...I can't see a thing,its ever so dark..<br />-Well..I believe I can see something ,..'bet you can't see what I see', said Mr C.<br />-No we can't ,said Mozes a little impatient,Mr C... please tell us what you see and don't keep us in suspense...<br />-I see.. I see...one ..no, two..no.. three..I believe I see a couple of lights in the distance<br />-Thank Goodness..that means we are almost home..squeaked Miss Moussie relieved.<br />-I wouldn't be to sure of that, said mozes,I can see the lights too and they don't look like our fairy lights in the garden....they look like ...pumpkins..<br />- Pumpkins,croaked Gustave...You mean this big round orange things...<br />-That's what I mean dear friend..Glowing pumpkins...<br />-Oke, that's it...squeaked Miss Moussie..glowing pumpkins are very suspicious..its not even Halloween yet...'I am going back...come on Gustave..'and Miss Moussie began to pull Gustave's arm...'lets turn around..'<br />-SSSsstt...quiet...everybody ssstand ssstill now...the pumpkin lights are getting closer..stuttered Mr C jumping up and down.<br />-Now they all were standing very still and very close together..they saw five glowing pumpkin lights.. bouncing and dancing through the forest...coming closer and closer...they stopped in front of our little scary troupe..then the pumpkins began to sing..<br /><br />We welcome you in the middle of the night<br />and hope we gave you a real big fright<br />put in each pumpkin your destination mail<br />then you'll be gone in a Jiffy on the Jiffy trail..<br /><br />-Singing Pumpkins,whispered Miss Moussie,can it get any crazier..<br />-I think I know what they are trying to tell us..said Mr C...we have to write a letter telling where we want to go,then put it in the pumpkin..and of we go..<br />Miss moussie grabbed her purse..she twittered, where are my glasses...can't write without my glasses....and paper...does anyone have pen and paper.?<br />-Here,take my pen ,said Mr C,I always carry it with me to write down important <br />things..and we can write on a leaf..I will gather five from the beeche tree.<br />And so they did...they all wrote down where they wanted to go..and they all thought they were going to be home in a jiffy..<br />Each of them walked up to a pumpkin ....together on the count of three they dropt there destination mail.....and poof..where gone in a jiffy...<br />I wonder where to..<br />Oh,look there is one pumpkin left....its your's...where do you want to go..do you know your destination...just anywhere,somewhere, or nowhere at all.....<br /><br />-Am I there yet..twittered Miss Moussie...she didn't dare to open her eyes...<br />-Its oke Miss..you can look now...Gustave croaked...we are home..we are sitting in your houssie..<br />-O how marvelous...there is no place like home,and that's exactly what I wrote on the destination mail....there is no place like home for a moussie like me..<br />At that moment they heard a loud knock on the door...who could this be...<br />-Just a minute...Miss Moussie shuffled to the door...she was still wearing her magnificent pink and very tight dress..<br />In the doorway stood Mr C...with a big smile on his face...<br />-Hello,hello, there you are.....wasn't this a wonderful experience...to travel on a Jiffy trail..I will never forget this,not even when I live to be a hundred years old..I even think I will write a book about it..bet you don't know the title of the book...<br />-Well, Mr C,croaked Gustave,let me guess..maybe the title of the book will be..."Back in a Jiffy..<br />-My dear green friend...that's correct...said Mr C surprised,you can read my mind..<br />-Mr C..did you happen to see Mozes in the garden on your way to my houssie..asked Miss Moussie...I am beginning to feel a bit worried...<br />The three little garden friends then ran out the door..into the dark garden..<br />They called...they called again...and they searched the whole night through until dawn...under the lilac bush ,up the tree,in the tool shed..in the pond..but Mozes was nowhere to be found.....<br />-Lets wake up our dear Dutchess...maybe she knows where Mozes can be..squeaked Miss Moussie with tears in her eyes..<br />-I will make some tea...Gustave croaked with a very sad croak..we will go upstairs in our Dutchess bedroom and wake her up....<br />-Speaking of tea...we didn't hear any news from our friend the Tea rat in the last few ours..he always calls after visiting the theatre..how strange..<br />Our little garden friends being very worried and confused entered the bedroom of the dutchess in the urly morning light...climbed on her pillow...woke her up by whispering in her ear, and then... Gustave, being ever so shaky and nervous dropped the teapot...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtgS5ThHzpIS1ksY7bIfA73qeKsJYYWv4V5dLXLLpzYY_CfSTmrpg6v2fwqPatd7anHM6uPal9MyzkTFJww6yBMynQtrLJZRbHR0SsMqgdwHzfOtthemudB0TArexMaqEaAUkELvgQAqM/s1600-h/Foto0245.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtgS5ThHzpIS1ksY7bIfA73qeKsJYYWv4V5dLXLLpzYY_CfSTmrpg6v2fwqPatd7anHM6uPal9MyzkTFJww6yBMynQtrLJZRbHR0SsMqgdwHzfOtthemudB0TArexMaqEaAUkELvgQAqM/s320/Foto0245.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376848384862836626" /></a><br />O dear....Gustave dropped the teapot....Miss Moussie was squeaking her little head of...Mr C was jumping up and down ...and our dear Dutches was trying to make sense out of this big chaos in her bed at this very urly wednesday morning...<br />-Please, calm down ,calm down ,she said...Miss Moussie,dearest, stop squeaking...Mr C..please stop jumping..and Gustave darling..its oke..never mind the teapot...its not broken, it fell in the cushions..and you were ever so sweet to bring me tea...<br />-Its not the tea pot..its not the teapot...croaked Gustave...its Mozes.. its Mozes..<br />-Darling..you can not mistaken Mozes for a teapot...smiled our Dutchess...I believe Mozes is a somewhat bigger...<br />-No,We looked everywhere...and we can not find him....no,we do not mean we can not find the teapot...twittered Miss Moussie,when she saw the dutches lifting up the blanket..we can not find Mozes..<br />-Now they had the fullest attention of the dutchess...Really,she said...then, where could our dear fiend be.....<br />Suddenly they all heard a little voice coming from the hallway..."I found something.I found something...<br />It was Elvira....with in her hand a letter.<br />-I found a letter ,she said..a bit out of breath from running up the stairs..I found a letter in the garden....a letter from Nowhere..but where is Nowhere,and on the back of the envelope is written..open me and you will see.....<br />Open it,open it,our sweet garden friends were jumping op and down on the bed..<br />-Oke,oke,said the Dutchess,and she openend the envelope with great care..<br />Blue,the letter was blue..and it smelled like Lavender...the scent filled the room<br />The Dutchess gave the letter to Mr C because he can read letters like no other..<br />Ahum...Mr C cleared his throat..ahumm...<br />-Go on,go on,twittered Miss Moussie,what does is say..<br />-It says...said Mr C...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFreB3XbSkLoBBklVEpH35i62RyNiy_uJDK5NFF2fd8FICNt8K5EBZ7BLxjEvZ1hfJh5wxVFqigxpB6jWyOl2xUCvO2o8CVdaNQbM6dN3YANISdUvSddZTK3ccK-ACwqaewDzlZ_ZqMY/s1600-h/Foto0248.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFreB3XbSkLoBBklVEpH35i62RyNiy_uJDK5NFF2fd8FICNt8K5EBZ7BLxjEvZ1hfJh5wxVFqigxpB6jWyOl2xUCvO2o8CVdaNQbM6dN3YANISdUvSddZTK3ccK-ACwqaewDzlZ_ZqMY/s320/Foto0248.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377250844836324082" /></a><br />-Nowhere to be found..o my gosh..whispered Miss Mousse...o my goodness...now I am worried sick..what can we do..<br />- Mozes knows what he is doing,said the the Dutchess reinsuring,we have to wait and see...we have to trust Mozes and our dear friend the Tea rat..they are both very clever and couragious...I think they are on a great adventure..<br />--I love adventures..Mr C said..and sat himself down in the cushions...lets hope they will write another letter soon..<br /><br />They all sat there a while...they told the Dutchess about the walk through the forest,the Jiffy Trail,and the singing pumkins,that is, Miss Moussie did the talking..Mr C was to tired to say another word..and Gustave, he fell asleep with his little head on the pillow ..still holding a teacup in his hand<br /><br />Well,life will take its course in the garden...please come again to visit...we are always so happy to see you...and maybe next time there will be news from Mozes and his adventures in Nowhere...for now...stay warm and stay happy..The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6427747078013865010.post-25341732709532893742009-10-10T14:33:00.000+02:002009-11-01T12:32:58.100+01:00Very scary...(oktober 2008)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8nvXMPvho895XUn-HcN8HCoJw6_PTqJ4pgPMQVlb4tVloH5d6xWp2ddK379vNq5WfDtJWE96gbo4WVSX8xU6VloFRlpnWnMiOJB374KMcwRzp04YudYqGGzpPAPczG2MhL_rZxa-Ngg/s1600-h/vintage-halloween-black-cat-mice-pumpkin-party-invitation.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8nvXMPvho895XUn-HcN8HCoJw6_PTqJ4pgPMQVlb4tVloH5d6xWp2ddK379vNq5WfDtJWE96gbo4WVSX8xU6VloFRlpnWnMiOJB374KMcwRzp04YudYqGGzpPAPczG2MhL_rZxa-Ngg/s400/vintage-halloween-black-cat-mice-pumpkin-party-invitation.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263241411221532386" /></a><br /><br />You are ALL invited to the best Halloween party EVER..Its going to be VERY SCARY.<br />Gustave is coming...his Hibernate can wait..and he will be attending as.. The Hulk..well, being green that's a great idea..Elvira..a gentle and sometimes very naughty Lady squirrel is dressed as The Bride of Frankenstein. She always wanted to do this sometimes! Great hairdo! Her Husband ..Eduard,you did not meet him uptil now because he dousn't like to be in the picture ,will accompany his enchanting wife as..yes..The Monster of Frankenstein himself!<br />And then ofcourse there is lovey me..Miss Moussie the Gate Keeper of the garden,and I wil go as...Cat Woman...MIAUW!<br />Lets party..and be scary....see ya later..<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidig9A3_ZgOu_P7t2AIQDbUkqLEEC8IbrbVWjFJKpRyXJtCjhTb7UxVwSW0qw-AaI8HX94OlU15h8MYeAz8lu4Y29tm3pD-NVy75xu1Mo3HpH7vgh_sAtgfjHWQEw0feGKFhhW6fT6Elw/s1600-h/image_19.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 135px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidig9A3_ZgOu_P7t2AIQDbUkqLEEC8IbrbVWjFJKpRyXJtCjhTb7UxVwSW0qw-AaI8HX94OlU15h8MYeAz8lu4Y29tm3pD-NVy75xu1Mo3HpH7vgh_sAtgfjHWQEw0feGKFhhW6fT6Elw/s400/image_19.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263450018979762482" /></a><br />And a great party it was....guess what...Mr Bee came to party too..In disguise..<br />He came down on a parachute and landed in the garden..then,he intruduced himself as Bond..James Bond.Cool..So,Catwoman danced with James Bond,Frankenstein with his lovely bride,and Gustave had an interesting conversation with two charming cats,Miss Peach and Whiskers up the tree..something about ..to be,or not to be,up a tree,that was the question!<br />The hedgehog family was present, wearing Witches hats,very cute,and a little Robin dressed as Batman gave us a real fright because he was skydiving from the rooftop,shouting.."Batman,Batman"..don't worry,he's oke......no animals got hurt.<br />Then..in the middle of the party, a Ghost appeared....all white with scary hair!!<br />My goodness..it was our sweet Dutchess in her nightgown..Oeps,.... we forgot to tell her about our party....So sorry.<br />We are all very tired now...time to go to sleep.Only one garden creature is still wandering about in the dark to see the bats fly by.Its Gerald (flemish)Jay....he talks funny and is not to be trusted,always picking on somebody..But tonight he behaved and like us he found the party to be "Vewy Scawy'The Dutchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03417068949346419906noreply@blogger.com1