As Eliot hurried over to the table where Harold and Kitty were finishing the last of their lunch snack, an awful blast of cold air filled the hall and everyone turned to see why the doors had been open so long. Horror of horrors . . . it was Bunty. With Brighton and Natalya. And . . . Truannie in her stroller. Oh, no! Why didn't I tell Bunty that Truannie shouldn't come to the Bazaar? Boy, did I slip up. I should have said something like 'It's too cold to take Truannie out today, Bunty.' or 'Truannie won't get her nap at the Bazaar, and that's not good for babies.' Quick, man. Think of something. "Harold, you done yet? Why, LOOK, it's Bunty at the door! LOOK, HAROLD! It's BUNTY!"
Harold was off like a shot. Kitty finished her cocoa, barely able to conceal the Cheshire Cat grin on her face. We knows . . . we knows . . . Eliot sat down in the chair Harold had just hastily vacated and told Kitty that she was to sit quietly and listen to him. "And Kitty, I mean LISTEN. Don't say anything. Just listen."
Meanwhile, Harold knew exactly what was happening and made a dash for Bunty that might just have broken the world's 1-minute record. Necklaces went flying everywhere and the coins in his can made a racket. Blocking them from view of the hall, he looked at the red-hair trio and smiled . . . between deep breaths. "Hi, Girls! Goo goo, ga ga! (Aimed in Truannie's direction, of course.) Wanna buy a necklace? I've got a nice variety left. You all know what the donation benefits, so I'll just stand here a minute and catch my breath while you pick through the tray. Huh? Oh, sorry. I'll just go and pick them up. Back in a minute . . ." Brighton and Natalya had to laugh out loud at the sight of Harold retrieving the necklaces. It looked like he'd left a trail from the hall, just in case he forgot the way back. Bunty didn't pay any attention to him; she just kept fiddling with Truannie's winter bunting.
Harold was off like a shot. Kitty finished her cocoa, barely able to conceal the Cheshire Cat grin on her face. We knows . . . we knows . . . Eliot sat down in the chair Harold had just hastily vacated and told Kitty that she was to sit quietly and listen to him. "And Kitty, I mean LISTEN. Don't say anything. Just listen."
Meanwhile, Harold knew exactly what was happening and made a dash for Bunty that might just have broken the world's 1-minute record. Necklaces went flying everywhere and the coins in his can made a racket. Blocking them from view of the hall, he looked at the red-hair trio and smiled . . . between deep breaths. "Hi, Girls! Goo goo, ga ga! (Aimed in Truannie's direction, of course.) Wanna buy a necklace? I've got a nice variety left. You all know what the donation benefits, so I'll just stand here a minute and catch my breath while you pick through the tray. Huh? Oh, sorry. I'll just go and pick them up. Back in a minute . . ." Brighton and Natalya had to laugh out loud at the sight of Harold retrieving the necklaces. It looked like he'd left a trail from the hall, just in case he forgot the way back. Bunty didn't pay any attention to him; she just kept fiddling with Truannie's winter bunting.
Harold returned with Eliot close behind. The friends crowded around Harold's tray (now filled with necklaces), but Bunty continued on with Truannie. "Hello, Eliot! We got to talking and decided that it wouldn't hurt to bring Truannie shopping. Why didn't we think of it this morning? This way no one has to wait at home, and we can shop together. Besides, she's had her lunch and will sleep the rest of the afternoon in her stroller." The talk with Kitty had sobered Eliot back into the laidback but fast-on-the-mark bloke he normally is. "It's too crowded in there for her. Besides, I didn't see anything I need. I'll just take her home now and show her the necklace I bought for her. " "You bought her a necklace?" queried three girls in unison. Eliot just strolled off with Truannie in the stroller. Harold shrugged his shoulders and started back to the hall. The girls were a little sorry to see the stroller go (great for stowing packages, you know), but they didn't want to miss anymore of the fun. "Harold, wait for us! We haven't finished buying necklaces yet!" The girls giggled and chattered the whole time they dropped them into their shopping bags. "Aren't you going to put them on? What do you mean you don't want to mess up your hair? Oh, brother . . . Well, you'd better get in there. Everyone's been asking about you guys all morning. Hey, can you do me a favor and empty my can at Mabel's? I see a lot of kids that I missed while I was eating lunch. I'll be around. No hurry. Thanks a lot."
Bunty, as chairman of the Wool Week events, was thrilled to see so many people milling about enjoying themselves and buying so many items. While Bunty took the can over to Mabel, Brighton and Natalya had a grand old time finding friends they hadn't seen yet and looking through the stalls. Eydie was so busy that they only had a second or two to say "hey", but they told her they'd return later. "Oh, Brighton, why did we eat so much lunch back at the house? Those Apple Fritters look to die for." The girls moved on, and Bunty caught up with them in front of Mina's stall.
Harold had a whole fresh after-lunch crowd to hit up with his 'Love a Longwool" spiel. (Don't worry, it's not the '10 Reasons' speech, just his patter for selling necklaces.) Jacqui and Toni had just grabbed the last empty table in the hall when Harold approached with his tray. While he and Jacqui were filling her bag with necklaces and his can with donations, Toni couldn't help but focus on how discordant the color of Harold's neck ribbon was against the blue of his shirt and cap. She busied herself spreading their food on the table so that he couldn't decode the look in her eyes. When he left the table, she and her sister started in on the pie (the cocoa was too hot to drink yet). Jacqui quietly asked, "What's wrong with you? Why didn't you talk to Harold and help with the necklaces? Didn't you see him?" Toni murmured, "I saw him."
The pie with whipped cream was just perfect. (Did you notice how Jacqui and Toni always eat top to bottom in even, perpendicular bites? No eating the cream off the top before tasting the pie for them.) The hot cocoa had the perfect amount of cinnamon. And the twins sat together in perfect silence. Jacqui was used to it. It meant that Toni's mind was working through something, and she knew her sister would tell her when she was ready. She really didn't mind right now, though, because she had her own ideas crowding out the noise in the hall. The girls were prepping to open the first Fashion Boutique on Islandshire, which was why they were here today. They'd been anxious to see Mabel and Joan's work, as potential suppliers, and now Jacqui was crunching numbers to see if they could make it work as a team of pairs. The only one who broke through their silence was Steviekins, purring under their table and lapping up the whipped cream as fast as they could absentmindedly get it to him.
As the twin possessing a divinely over-developed sense of design and style, Toni's always filled with ideas, but the Bazaar really had her going. "I've got an idea, Jacqui. Why don't we buy a few more of these necklaces and use them as an incentive promotional when we open the Boutique? You know, like 'First 50 Customers Get Free Sheep Necklace' or something like that. Can you make it work?" While Toni may have fashion sense in spades, Jacqui is the down-to-earth brain of a sister who has to "make it work". (That's one of Toni's favorite phrases, "Just Make it Work". You could say she's developed "Blue Sky Thinking" to an art form.) Without looking up from her pie, Jacqui answered in her usual matter-of-fact tone, "I can tell you now it won't work. Look around. Do you see anyone NOT wearing or holding one of those necklaces? They won't be any incentive to get out of bed early and line up at our new store." Toni went back to her food and people-watching.
All the tables were full, so Kitty looked around for somewhere to get out of the crowd and juggle her Apple Fritter and Hot Cocoa without spilling anything on Steviekins. "Jacqui! Toni! Mind if I stand here with you? Ooh, your outfits are adorable! Isn't this weather just awful? I got this great hat from Mabel and Joan, so I think the walk home will be a little better. How's the Boutique lining up? Ooh, it's going to add so much prestige to the Island to have our very own Fashion Boutique. Do you have a name for it yet? No? Well, I'm sure you'll let me know when you come up with one. I could help you spread the word around." The twins stared at each other, trying not to laugh out loud, before nodding at Kitty. "Why, how sweet of you Kitty! You know, you'd have made a great Town Crier two hundred years ago." "Oh, do you think so? That's quite a compliment. I do love helping people feel safe and happy. Oh, Steviekins, aren't you the cutest? But I don't have any whipped cream on my plate. Why don't you try the others over there?" Steviekins walked off as if he'd understood every word. "I don't know if you girls have heard or not . . . Well, no . . . you wouldn't have heard, because it's a secret. I'm so happy for someone we all know and love. But it's a secret. I'm sure you'll hear about it in time, but I do wish I could tell you what's got me feeling so giddy today. You know me, though. Mum's the word. Best secret keeper on Islandshire. Yep, that's me. By the way, have you heard the news about the new Luau Laundromat opening here on the Island? Don't say anything to Nanea, though, because Benny wants her to be surprised. They're going to provide food and entertainment while you wait for your clothes to finish, too. Won't it be great?" The twins sat wondering how a person could talk like that without ever taking a breath. Kitty finished her hot cocoa and ran off in search of someone else to tell about the secret she couldn't share with them. The Twins shared a knowing smile and decided to clear the table for someone else. All in all, it'd been an enjoyable day. Maybe Trudy should hire Kitty as a roving reporter or Editor or something . . .
Harold had a whole fresh after-lunch crowd to hit up with his 'Love a Longwool" spiel. (Don't worry, it's not the '10 Reasons' speech, just his patter for selling necklaces.) Jacqui and Toni had just grabbed the last empty table in the hall when Harold approached with his tray. While he and Jacqui were filling her bag with necklaces and his can with donations, Toni couldn't help but focus on how discordant the color of Harold's neck ribbon was against the blue of his shirt and cap. She busied herself spreading their food on the table so that he couldn't decode the look in her eyes. When he left the table, she and her sister started in on the pie (the cocoa was too hot to drink yet). Jacqui quietly asked, "What's wrong with you? Why didn't you talk to Harold and help with the necklaces? Didn't you see him?" Toni murmured, "I saw him."
The pie with whipped cream was just perfect. (Did you notice how Jacqui and Toni always eat top to bottom in even, perpendicular bites? No eating the cream off the top before tasting the pie for them.) The hot cocoa had the perfect amount of cinnamon. And the twins sat together in perfect silence. Jacqui was used to it. It meant that Toni's mind was working through something, and she knew her sister would tell her when she was ready. She really didn't mind right now, though, because she had her own ideas crowding out the noise in the hall. The girls were prepping to open the first Fashion Boutique on Islandshire, which was why they were here today. They'd been anxious to see Mabel and Joan's work, as potential suppliers, and now Jacqui was crunching numbers to see if they could make it work as a team of pairs. The only one who broke through their silence was Steviekins, purring under their table and lapping up the whipped cream as fast as they could absentmindedly get it to him.
As the twin possessing a divinely over-developed sense of design and style, Toni's always filled with ideas, but the Bazaar really had her going. "I've got an idea, Jacqui. Why don't we buy a few more of these necklaces and use them as an incentive promotional when we open the Boutique? You know, like 'First 50 Customers Get Free Sheep Necklace' or something like that. Can you make it work?" While Toni may have fashion sense in spades, Jacqui is the down-to-earth brain of a sister who has to "make it work". (That's one of Toni's favorite phrases, "Just Make it Work". You could say she's developed "Blue Sky Thinking" to an art form.) Without looking up from her pie, Jacqui answered in her usual matter-of-fact tone, "I can tell you now it won't work. Look around. Do you see anyone NOT wearing or holding one of those necklaces? They won't be any incentive to get out of bed early and line up at our new store." Toni went back to her food and people-watching.
All the tables were full, so Kitty looked around for somewhere to get out of the crowd and juggle her Apple Fritter and Hot Cocoa without spilling anything on Steviekins. "Jacqui! Toni! Mind if I stand here with you? Ooh, your outfits are adorable! Isn't this weather just awful? I got this great hat from Mabel and Joan, so I think the walk home will be a little better. How's the Boutique lining up? Ooh, it's going to add so much prestige to the Island to have our very own Fashion Boutique. Do you have a name for it yet? No? Well, I'm sure you'll let me know when you come up with one. I could help you spread the word around." The twins stared at each other, trying not to laugh out loud, before nodding at Kitty. "Why, how sweet of you Kitty! You know, you'd have made a great Town Crier two hundred years ago." "Oh, do you think so? That's quite a compliment. I do love helping people feel safe and happy. Oh, Steviekins, aren't you the cutest? But I don't have any whipped cream on my plate. Why don't you try the others over there?" Steviekins walked off as if he'd understood every word. "I don't know if you girls have heard or not . . . Well, no . . . you wouldn't have heard, because it's a secret. I'm so happy for someone we all know and love. But it's a secret. I'm sure you'll hear about it in time, but I do wish I could tell you what's got me feeling so giddy today. You know me, though. Mum's the word. Best secret keeper on Islandshire. Yep, that's me. By the way, have you heard the news about the new Luau Laundromat opening here on the Island? Don't say anything to Nanea, though, because Benny wants her to be surprised. They're going to provide food and entertainment while you wait for your clothes to finish, too. Won't it be great?" The twins sat wondering how a person could talk like that without ever taking a breath. Kitty finished her hot cocoa and ran off in search of someone else to tell about the secret she couldn't share with them. The Twins shared a knowing smile and decided to clear the table for someone else. All in all, it'd been an enjoyable day. Maybe Trudy should hire Kitty as a roving reporter or Editor or something . . .
With all the shoppers coming and going, it was a full time job for Mina and Joan to stay on top of keeping their displays neat and filled. Mabel had all she could do in helping people find what they wanted and offering gift suggestions. Fortunately for Mina, her stall size had opened considerably with the sale of the sheep dishes. (Sssh . . . remember, it's a secret.) Before the baskets had been closed, though, she'd known what to move front and center. She'd experimented with a new line of terracotta Yarn Bowls for this 'Love a Longwool' Bazaar and had already sold more than she'd expected to. Why, some non-knitters were actually buying them just for accent pieces in their homes! Because of the constant crowd in her stall, Mina hadn't gotten very far with her exhibition on the wheel, so she just let it go. The clay was so dried-out by this time that she couldn't have done much with it, anyway. Next time, she'd know better than to bother taking the wheel. (The Merry Men would be happy to hear that.) She handed the full donation can to Joan, swapping her for an empty one. (That had been Joan's idea, to do it that way, instead of making the vendors wait while they emptied their cans. Isn't she clever?) Mina had just enough time to flag Kitty down before someone came up asking about a pitcher she had on display. "Yoo hoo! Kitty! Would you mind the store for me? It'll only be for a minute. I'd like to take a quick break and then pop over to Eydie's for a nice cup of that new Wassail everyone's talking about. I haven't been able to leave this booth since early this morning, and I really need something to drink. Thanks lots. I won't be long. Oh, if anyone comes, just tell them I'll be right back. Show them the gourds or something. Tell them about the Luau Laundromat. I don't know. I won't be long. You're a dear . . ." And she was off. Kitty felt very important, and the shoppers seemed to like her stories. Maybe she could offer her services around the Island as a stand-in salesgirl. "Yes? Can I help you? Oh, she's just gone for a minute. She really needed to go to get a cup of Wassail, so she asked me to stand here for her. Would you like to see these gourds . . ." Ah, Kitty.
Mina was back just in time for Natalya to storm the stall with her smiling face and empty bag. "Wow! I just know I need to take a souvenir home from your booth, but what should it be? I like so many of your things. Did you know that I'm taking up knitting? Yes, I've been really inspired by the whole of Wool Week, but Mabel and Joan's stall really got me thinking. And there's so much that I need that I don't know where to start. Bunty and Brighton are so awfully wonderful at all of this. I'm sure they'll take me in hand. And I'm so glad I got that extra suitcase at Lori's Thrift event the other day. Oh, are those little gourd flasks for sale, too? I definitely need one of those. I don't know what I'm going to do with it, but it's too cute to pass up. Hey, girls! Come over here and look at Mina's Yarn Bowls! And these cute little gourds!"
"Yarn Bowls?! Who's got Yarn Bowls? We'll be right there." Bunty and Brighton said a quick good-by to Toni and Jacqui and hightailed it over to Mina's stall. "Oh, Mina! I had no idea you could do this! Bunty, just look at these! They're beautiful! I'll have this one, please. And that one, too. I could leave one upstairs, the other in my fiber studio. Aren't they just perfect?" Bunty took a little time to decide but ended up also buying two of the bowls plus a new water pitcher. "Girls, why don't we try them out tonight and do a little knitting? We could give Natalya her first lesson. Ooh, those little gourds are cute, too. Did you show those to Eliot this morning? That seems like something that'd be right up his alley." Mina mumbled something about being super busy during the morning and started straightening the stall. "Well, I'll take a couple more, anyway. And that's just what I've been looking for. Is it heavy? How about that? And, oooooh, what did you sell over there in the big baskets? Can I have a look?" Mina nearly fell through the floor at that, but sweet little Joan came to the rescue. (I told you she couldn't help overhearing.) "Hi, Girls! Sorry to interrupt, but we have a lot of lovely yarn with us today (what's left of it, anyway). Maybe you'll find something you like to go with your new bowls." Mina passed a private look of thanks and admiration in Joan's direction and set about bagging the girls' stuff. Thoroughly diverted, Bunty and Brighton just started giggling. And giggling. And giggling. "Brighton, did you hear that? Why don't we go to Mabel and Joan's and see if they have any yarn you'd like to buy? Maybe something in a nice teal-colored Corriedale, hmm?" This time it was full-blown laughter as they moved on to talk to Mabel. With a shrug of the shoulders in Mina's direction, Natalya fell in line with the others, as Mina hollered out that she'd keep their things until they finished their shopping. Joan knew what the yarn joke was, but Mabel had told her it was a secret. A real secret.
"Hello, Bunty . . . Brighton . . . Natalya. You made it!" Mabel had begun to be concerned about the trio getting here before everything was sold. "Is it still raining outside? Starting to clear? Will wonders never cease . . . let's hope they were right about tonight being the end of this miserable weather. You've probably already heard, but everyone was asking about you this morning. They were sorry to miss you but will be glad to know that you made it here all right. And with large empty bags, I see. Good for you. Lori's Thrift event? In this hall? Joan and I need to get out more . . . I'll be with you in just one moment, as soon as we find this sweater in Mariamne's size. Feel free to look around, and Joan knows where everything is, so don't be afraid to ask. Now, Mariamne, I think we have just what you're looking for right over here, my dear . . ."
"Oh, Mariamne! That's just the cu-u-utest! It's so YOU! Can I feel it? My goodness, that's soft." Natalya wondered how long it'd be before she could knit like that. Even if it took as many as two or three lessons to get there, she could be patient. And she had no idea that wool could be soft like that. She realized that she had a lot to learn about wool. Maybe she should ask Harold to hear his '10 Reasons' talk again . . . privately, of course. And she promised herself that she'd pay attention this time.
Bunty went into raptures over the sweater and knew that even twenty more knitting lessons wouldn't find her creating something like that. "Oh, Joan! You two are the best, and Islandshire is privileged to have knitters of your caliber living right here. This looks like something we used to have to send off-island for in the early days. I know I'm a bit of a thread-paper, but do you suppose you still have another one in my size? I guess it would be too much to ask for something in earth tones, but I'd be happy with whatever you can find." Before Joan could answer, Mabel came over and winked at her sister. They had just the thing. Mariamne, still wearing her sweater (it was still cold outside), headed for Eydie's. Everyone had been praising the Apple Fritters to the sky, but what she really wanted was a hot drink to go with it.
"Oh, Mariamne! That's just the cu-u-utest! It's so YOU! Can I feel it? My goodness, that's soft." Natalya wondered how long it'd be before she could knit like that. Even if it took as many as two or three lessons to get there, she could be patient. And she had no idea that wool could be soft like that. She realized that she had a lot to learn about wool. Maybe she should ask Harold to hear his '10 Reasons' talk again . . . privately, of course. And she promised herself that she'd pay attention this time.
Bunty went into raptures over the sweater and knew that even twenty more knitting lessons wouldn't find her creating something like that. "Oh, Joan! You two are the best, and Islandshire is privileged to have knitters of your caliber living right here. This looks like something we used to have to send off-island for in the early days. I know I'm a bit of a thread-paper, but do you suppose you still have another one in my size? I guess it would be too much to ask for something in earth tones, but I'd be happy with whatever you can find." Before Joan could answer, Mabel came over and winked at her sister. They had just the thing. Mariamne, still wearing her sweater (it was still cold outside), headed for Eydie's. Everyone had been praising the Apple Fritters to the sky, but what she really wanted was a hot drink to go with it.
The crowd had thinned in the hall, so Mariamne didn't have to wait in a long line like the early birds had. Eydie was glad for the break. She was starting to run low on everything and needed a minute or two to re-stock. "Eydie, as always, you make the most delicious delectables. The smell has filled the hall, making it impossible for me to finish my shopping. Guess I'm hungrier and thirstier than I thought. Well, the Apple Fritter is a must. That's all I've heard about . . . Eydie's Apple Fritters and whipped cream. Don't look like that, silly. They didn't mean the cream ON the fritters. Those were the pie-and-cocoa people raving about the whipped cream. Anyway, I'll take one of the Apple Fritters before they're all gone. But what should I get to drink? I'm crazy about Hot Chocolate, but George told me not to leave without trying the "spicy juice" Oh, hi, little kitty. How's my Steviekins today? Here you go. Eydie, you don't mind my giving him a little of that whipped cream, do you?" Eydie didn't know what to say. With all the cream he'd eaten today, she was surprised the little thing was still on its feet. And if she did mind, it was quarts too late. "Of course not. He's pretty irresistible. About the drinks. Why don't you have a cup of both? One now with your fritter, the other after you finish your shopping. I'll make sure I don't run out of either, just for you!"
Mariamne thought it a wonderful plan and ordered Wassail first to go with her fritter. Maybe she needed a piece of that pumpkin pie when she came back for her cocoa, though. The whipped cream was really calling her, and she didn't think she could put enough in a mug of hot chocolate without looking greedy. Everyone expects you to eat an enormous heap of whipped cream on pumpkin pie, though. I wonder if that's why people eat so much pie. Maybe it's just an excuse to gorge on whipped cream. Oh, there's an empty table. Boy, it's getting cooler in here. I'm glad I got this sweater to wear now.
It was cooler in the hall, because the crowd was thinning out. As Mariamne dropped into her chair, Eydie was assaulted by a wave of Take-Out customers. When the last of them was served, Eydie looked around in disbelief. There was no one in her stall. Not a single, solitary person. Eydie hollered over to Mariamne to tell anyone who came up that she'd be right back. She hadn't had a break like this since the doors had opened early this morning. And a girl can sample the hot drinks for so long before she needs a . . . break. She kept an eye open for Steviekins both as she left the hall and returned but saw neither hide nor hair. "Mariamne, I'm back. Thanks! Have you seen Steviekins since you sat down? Oh, well . . . he can't stand this cold weather. He probably went in search of a warm corner somewhere. Or whatever's making that rustle inside the wall. He's been intently "staring" at it all day. You're right. He's probably sweet-purring someone out of more whipping cream somewhere. Did I miss any excitement? Good. Mind if I sit down with you? I'm bushed, and I haven't had a chance to eat all day. Nope, I won't tell you. A good cook never reveals her favorites. I'll just have a sliver of everything and keep you guessing. Did you hear what George did this morning? What a hoot! Can you taste the difference? No, I couldn't either. The whipped cream is a little thinner, but no one seemed to mind. Steviekins sure didn't! Where is that kitty, anyway?" The girls looked around from their chairs and then, unable to spot him, turned back to their drinks and a minute of companionable silence. When Mariamne left for home, she bundled her new wool sweater around herself as much as she could, wishing she'd bought a hat and scarf, too.
Aside from a few stragglers searching for last-minute Christmas gifts, the red-hair trio represented the last of the serious shoppers. It's a good thing, too, because Mina had no Yarn Bowls left, only a few unmatched pieces of this and that, and one gourd. Harold had sold all of his necklaces. (This boy is going to sleep well tonight, if his joy over earning the right to make the '10 Reasons' speech doesn't keep him awake.) Eydie had enough goodies to finish the day, as long as people weren't too particular. That last Take Out crowd had left her pretty wiped out. (Both her and her inventory). She looked at all the empty tables but picked the one where Mina had come to rest. As she passed by the front of her booth, she grabbed two cups of Hot Cocoa for herself and her friend, and they just together sat in exhausted silence, broken only when Mina asked Eydie, "Hey, did you hear about the laundromat Benny and Nanea are opening?" Eydie answered, "I've heard about it. Do you think Benny's heard about it?"
While Mabel and Joan pretended to figure out where they'd put the smaller sweaters (those sizes are usually the last to go on Islandshire), the trio passed the time looking through each other's bags. The oohing and aahing was hardly noticed by the twins, until a really loud "ooh" caused everyone to stare at the redheads. "Too cute!!!" they kept gasping out between rounds of giggles and baby talk. Mabel and Joan wished they'd been in on the joke. Finally, Bunty stopped giggling long enough to point at the top of their Victorian sideboard. Way up high, curled up on the last of the bulky sweaters, was . . . Steviekins! Sound asleep. So sound asleep that he never even stirred with the noise of the laughter. So sound asleep that he didn't even respond to all the "kitty talk". Mabel was the first to try and wake him. She kept stroking and stroking, but his sleepy breathing just got softer and softer. "You don't suppose he's in a diabetic coma from all that whipped cream we've been feeding him today, do you?" That sent everyone into another fit of giggles.
It was cooler in the hall, because the crowd was thinning out. As Mariamne dropped into her chair, Eydie was assaulted by a wave of Take-Out customers. When the last of them was served, Eydie looked around in disbelief. There was no one in her stall. Not a single, solitary person. Eydie hollered over to Mariamne to tell anyone who came up that she'd be right back. She hadn't had a break like this since the doors had opened early this morning. And a girl can sample the hot drinks for so long before she needs a . . . break. She kept an eye open for Steviekins both as she left the hall and returned but saw neither hide nor hair. "Mariamne, I'm back. Thanks! Have you seen Steviekins since you sat down? Oh, well . . . he can't stand this cold weather. He probably went in search of a warm corner somewhere. Or whatever's making that rustle inside the wall. He's been intently "staring" at it all day. You're right. He's probably sweet-purring someone out of more whipping cream somewhere. Did I miss any excitement? Good. Mind if I sit down with you? I'm bushed, and I haven't had a chance to eat all day. Nope, I won't tell you. A good cook never reveals her favorites. I'll just have a sliver of everything and keep you guessing. Did you hear what George did this morning? What a hoot! Can you taste the difference? No, I couldn't either. The whipped cream is a little thinner, but no one seemed to mind. Steviekins sure didn't! Where is that kitty, anyway?" The girls looked around from their chairs and then, unable to spot him, turned back to their drinks and a minute of companionable silence. When Mariamne left for home, she bundled her new wool sweater around herself as much as she could, wishing she'd bought a hat and scarf, too.
Aside from a few stragglers searching for last-minute Christmas gifts, the red-hair trio represented the last of the serious shoppers. It's a good thing, too, because Mina had no Yarn Bowls left, only a few unmatched pieces of this and that, and one gourd. Harold had sold all of his necklaces. (This boy is going to sleep well tonight, if his joy over earning the right to make the '10 Reasons' speech doesn't keep him awake.) Eydie had enough goodies to finish the day, as long as people weren't too particular. That last Take Out crowd had left her pretty wiped out. (Both her and her inventory). She looked at all the empty tables but picked the one where Mina had come to rest. As she passed by the front of her booth, she grabbed two cups of Hot Cocoa for herself and her friend, and they just together sat in exhausted silence, broken only when Mina asked Eydie, "Hey, did you hear about the laundromat Benny and Nanea are opening?" Eydie answered, "I've heard about it. Do you think Benny's heard about it?"
While Mabel and Joan pretended to figure out where they'd put the smaller sweaters (those sizes are usually the last to go on Islandshire), the trio passed the time looking through each other's bags. The oohing and aahing was hardly noticed by the twins, until a really loud "ooh" caused everyone to stare at the redheads. "Too cute!!!" they kept gasping out between rounds of giggles and baby talk. Mabel and Joan wished they'd been in on the joke. Finally, Bunty stopped giggling long enough to point at the top of their Victorian sideboard. Way up high, curled up on the last of the bulky sweaters, was . . . Steviekins! Sound asleep. So sound asleep that he never even stirred with the noise of the laughter. So sound asleep that he didn't even respond to all the "kitty talk". Mabel was the first to try and wake him. She kept stroking and stroking, but his sleepy breathing just got softer and softer. "You don't suppose he's in a diabetic coma from all that whipped cream we've been feeding him today, do you?" That sent everyone into another fit of giggles.
Natalya knew what to do. She went to Eydie's stall and came back with something in her hand. She waved it in front of the sleeping kitty's nose and . . . voila! Like a shot, Steviekins jumped up and started licking the . . . you guessed it . . . the whipped cream out of Natalya's hand.
"Come here, you little cutie!" When Steviekins had finished his treat, Natalya picked him up and gently set him on the floor. He just sat there, half asleep, licking his face. Natalya couldn't help but drop to the floor with him. "Oh, you're such a good little kitty and a sweet little fellow. Like your chin rubbed? Little precious . . ." Steviekins purred but paid no attention to Natalya, jut kept staring over at the stall. I wonder if that thing has finally come out of the wall. Maybe I missed a hole somewhere under the baseboard. It sounds pretty big, but even the small ones make a lot of racket. I hope no one else got it already. I'd better go check it out.
Steviekins passed Eydie's sign as he went to check out the rustle in the wall. Natalya was sure she knew what he was trying to tell her. "Oh, are you hungry, little sweetie? Just let me get up from here, and I'll get you something. Hey, Eydie, mind if I take a piece of the pumpkin pie, please? With some whipped cream on the side? Thanks so much! What? No, I don't need a fork." Steviekins ate all the whipped cream, leaving the piece of pie. He looked around to cover it for later, but there was only a heavy basket of apples and an even heavier pumpkin. Steviekins decided to risk it and went to "stare" at the wall.
Meanwhile, "back at the ranch", Mabel had pulled the sweater down and tried to remove the cat hair. Everyone laughed, and Bunty assured her it wasn't necessary. "Aren't you funny, Mabel? Trying to pick cat hair off a wool sweater. We wouldn't have even known if we hadn't seen Steviekins up there. Besides, people who work with wool don't mind a bit of cat hair here and there. You know, I spun cat hair once. No, I'm not kidding. It didn't stand up well on its own, but when I blended it with wool, it was lovely. I was making a gift for a friend and thought it'd be more special if it had her own kitty's hair in it. Her sister brushed the cat for a whole year and squirreled the fur away until we had enough. I've done dog, too. Oh, yes, and I did buffalo once. That's a funny story. Remind me to tell you some time.
"Okay, okay. I got it from a friend whose mother had actually bought about 8 ounces of buffalo fiber at a fiber show years ago. It'd been washed four or five times by the seller so should have been ready to use. (Her mother does needlefelting.) She said the drive home was pure agony, even though the small bag of fiber was in the closed trunk. A trunk that was filled to the rafters with wool, mind you, which should have 'outsmelled' everything else. They had to drive the whole two hours home with the A/C off and all the windows down, trying not to stop more than they had to. No amount of washing after that lessened the stench, so the fiber was double-bagged and stored in a cedar trunk with some of the other more unusual fibers she owned. Four or five years later, she went looking for some Angora rabbit she had, finding the buffalo fiber instead, and figured she had nothing to lose by washing it again. When the bag was opened, though, there was absolutely NO smell. Just a handful of beautiful, soft buffalo undercoat. She made a small 'buffalo mat' for a doll she was needlefelting and eventually gave the rest to me to spin. It was lovely. And, no, it has no foul smell left. Funny, I'd almost forgotten about that project. Anyway, let's have a look at that sweater."
The sweater was just the right size for a thread-paper girl like Bunty. As she poked her head through the neckhole, Mabel surprised her with a matching hat! "Oh, Mabel! I'm going to pretend you made these just for me! A hat, too! Oh, it's just wonderful! And just look at the workmanship!" Mabel knew that a little gravy on the biscuit never hurt anyone. "Would it make it any better if I tell you we used our softest Bluefaced Leicester yarn on this? It's a true Longwool lover's delight! In fact, we've been waiting all day for you to come. I actually had to talk an earlier shopper out of buying it! We'd like to give it to you as a gift. No, really. Joanie and I discussed it the whole time we were making it. That's why it's your size. You work really hard every year to raise money for the RBST, and the whole Island enjoys your Wool Week events. It's just a small way to say "Thanks!" for everything you do for us." Lots of hugs around, and there wasn't a dry eye in the house.
"Okay, okay. I got it from a friend whose mother had actually bought about 8 ounces of buffalo fiber at a fiber show years ago. It'd been washed four or five times by the seller so should have been ready to use. (Her mother does needlefelting.) She said the drive home was pure agony, even though the small bag of fiber was in the closed trunk. A trunk that was filled to the rafters with wool, mind you, which should have 'outsmelled' everything else. They had to drive the whole two hours home with the A/C off and all the windows down, trying not to stop more than they had to. No amount of washing after that lessened the stench, so the fiber was double-bagged and stored in a cedar trunk with some of the other more unusual fibers she owned. Four or five years later, she went looking for some Angora rabbit she had, finding the buffalo fiber instead, and figured she had nothing to lose by washing it again. When the bag was opened, though, there was absolutely NO smell. Just a handful of beautiful, soft buffalo undercoat. She made a small 'buffalo mat' for a doll she was needlefelting and eventually gave the rest to me to spin. It was lovely. And, no, it has no foul smell left. Funny, I'd almost forgotten about that project. Anyway, let's have a look at that sweater."
The sweater was just the right size for a thread-paper girl like Bunty. As she poked her head through the neckhole, Mabel surprised her with a matching hat! "Oh, Mabel! I'm going to pretend you made these just for me! A hat, too! Oh, it's just wonderful! And just look at the workmanship!" Mabel knew that a little gravy on the biscuit never hurt anyone. "Would it make it any better if I tell you we used our softest Bluefaced Leicester yarn on this? It's a true Longwool lover's delight! In fact, we've been waiting all day for you to come. I actually had to talk an earlier shopper out of buying it! We'd like to give it to you as a gift. No, really. Joanie and I discussed it the whole time we were making it. That's why it's your size. You work really hard every year to raise money for the RBST, and the whole Island enjoys your Wool Week events. It's just a small way to say "Thanks!" for everything you do for us." Lots of hugs around, and there wasn't a dry eye in the house.
As soon as all tears had been dried, the redheads asked if they could look through the drawers and cubbyholes, too, or did the twins want to close up for the day. "Absolutely not!" they answered in unison. "You can look for as long as you like. Take as much time as you need. We've got a lot to do in here." The trio went their own ways, and Mabel and Joan took advantage of the time to straighten things up. It was nice and quiet in the hall. And not quite as cold, come to think of it.
Natalya bounced up from where she'd been digging through a crate of knitted scarves. "Bunty! Girls! Look over here! A scarf to match! And it's made of the same yarn! Can you believe it?!" Mabel and Joan smiled at each other. Their treasure-hunt idea had been a success. "And look at this, Brighton. It's a scarf in your very favorite teal color, with fringe in three different shades. And I found this cherry-red scarf that's going to match most of my favorite clothes! Can you think of better souvenirs? And they're 100% wool, of course! And buying them supports LOVE A LONGWOOL! Oh, Girls, we'd better pay for these right away, before someone else buys them." The other four girls looked around the hall. "Natalya, there IS no one else to buy them." Natalya looked around and . . . oh, well . . .
Natalya bounced up from where she'd been digging through a crate of knitted scarves. "Bunty! Girls! Look over here! A scarf to match! And it's made of the same yarn! Can you believe it?!" Mabel and Joan smiled at each other. Their treasure-hunt idea had been a success. "And look at this, Brighton. It's a scarf in your very favorite teal color, with fringe in three different shades. And I found this cherry-red scarf that's going to match most of my favorite clothes! Can you think of better souvenirs? And they're 100% wool, of course! And buying them supports LOVE A LONGWOOL! Oh, Girls, we'd better pay for these right away, before someone else buys them." The other four girls looked around the hall. "Natalya, there IS no one else to buy them." Natalya looked around and . . . oh, well . . .
Mabel moved over to the Yarn area. "Brighton, make sure you don't leave before going through all these skeins of yarn. There might be something you don't already have. Like . . . let me see . . . this is a nice Corriedale here, dyed and spun in a beautiful teal color by someone who really knew what they were doing." Mabel winked at Joan and Bunty, who silently answered with knowing smiles. Brighton, in her haste, nearly tripped over their shopping bags. "I can't believe that I almost forgot the Corriedale! And I've been wanting to buy that since we made it! Oh, I'm so glad you reminded me. Isn't it just the most beautiful thing you've ever seen? I would have been devastated to leave without this. I'm so glad you picked on this particular one, Mabel. Great minds think alike! I wonder why no one bought this all day? Must have been waiting for me, huh? And look at all these other colors. You need some of this, Natalya . . . and you need this, Bunty . . . and I think I could use this orangey-brown color. Ooh, I can't wait to start knitting." Brighton was so happy that she didn't notice the others watching. "How much do I owe the can? There's enough here to do a nice project, too, if I take them all. How much is it?" Mabel just smiled and said, "It's a gift, Brighton. From a friend." Brighton whipped around and stared at Bunty, who just nodded her head. "Oh, Bunty. How can I ever thank you?" Bunty burst out laughing. "Why, you little ninny! YOU did all the work. Of course, you're taking it home with you." And a good time was had by all.
Natalya was still digging through all the drawers and baskets. That girl is a natural-born digger. It's the thrift-store mentality, you know, and that's why she always finds cool things that the others have missed. "Hey, Brighton. Look at this. It's a little sheep decoration, like a charm or pendant but larger, that you can sew onto a backpack or a hat or something. And they come in both pink and blue." All three girls started chattering at once. Oh, yes. They needed those. Just in case. For their stash bins. After all, you never know when you'll need a pink or blue metal, larger-than-charm pendant for something. Maybe they could figure out something to do with them when they got back to Bunty's house and pulled out that mound of leftover cord from the necklaces. Or they might dig out those short pieces of colored ball chain that they'd ordered for luggage tags for next year. While the other two were trying to figure out how many of what color they wanted, Bunty smiled at Mabel and said, "We'll just take the whole basket."
Natalya was still digging through all the drawers and baskets. That girl is a natural-born digger. It's the thrift-store mentality, you know, and that's why she always finds cool things that the others have missed. "Hey, Brighton. Look at this. It's a little sheep decoration, like a charm or pendant but larger, that you can sew onto a backpack or a hat or something. And they come in both pink and blue." All three girls started chattering at once. Oh, yes. They needed those. Just in case. For their stash bins. After all, you never know when you'll need a pink or blue metal, larger-than-charm pendant for something. Maybe they could figure out something to do with them when they got back to Bunty's house and pulled out that mound of leftover cord from the necklaces. Or they might dig out those short pieces of colored ball chain that they'd ordered for luggage tags for next year. While the other two were trying to figure out how many of what color they wanted, Bunty smiled at Mabel and said, "We'll just take the whole basket."
While the other two were looking around (and under), Bunty got to the main reason she'd wanted to visit this stall today. "Mabel, maybe you have a suggestion for me. I'm looking for a Christmas present for Eliot. It's funny, but I was afraid we wouldn't get him to leave the Bazaar, if we brought Truannie with us, but we just couldn't wait any longer. I'd worked up this whole excuse about Truannie needing to go home for a nap and it being too cold for her in the hall, but I never needed it. As soon as he saw us, he grabbed Truannie and her stroller and hightailed it for home. He's not much of a shopper, I know, but that was more than I could have hoped for. Anyway, I think I have an idea. At Lori's Thrift event the other day, Eliot bought this hideous flannel nightshirt for himself. I know, I know. But he just loves it. I thought that some matching slippers might make it look . . . well . . . you know. It's the color of Brighton's scarf, more or less, so anything in that color would work." Kitty had been telling the funny story about Eliot's nightshirt and old boots all over town. And his television. And the bowling ball. And the washer and dryer. Mabel pointed to the rack behind Bunty and told her to look at the back of the second peg. "I think we have just the thing, my dear. You'll know the ones I mean the minute you see them. Just keep looking. Joanie and I were surprised that that particular pair of house socks hadn't gone sooner. We even made them with the darker toes, and that two-tone style is always so popular. Would those work, do you think?" Bunty knew just which pair Mabel had been talking about. As she held up her prize for everyone to see, she said to Mabel, "I think they're perfect."
"Let's put them in this little bag, and you can put something else on top. That way he'll never know what's in there. Not to rush you or anything, but have you had any of Eydie's offerings yet? I don't know what she has left, but whatever you find will be wonderful. Why don't you just leave your bags here and go see Eydie? No line, empty tables . . . yes, this is the time to go. I'll tally you up and have it all ready to go. Oh, while you're at it, would you tell Eydie to save back a pumpkin pie for us to take home with us? Thanks. Now go and get something to eat."
Brighton and Natalya got there first, pleasantly surprised to see any of Eydie's desserts left. "Any chance you have some take-home boxes? It's so close to closing time that we'd better just take them to go. I think Harold and Eliot are bringing something home from the diner after finishing up over here, so we'll take this for dessert. Ooh, those look perfect, and those, and those. Why don't you just put together a nice assortment for six?" Bunty came in time to hear what her friends were doing and put in Mabel's request for her own pie-in-a-box. "Eydie, you're amazing! Here we are, exhausted after a long day, with you looking as fresh as a daisy. We all know what went into making, baking, carting and serving these treats for us. Why aren't you knocked off your feet?" Eydie just laughed and told them they should visit her tomorrow and see how fresh she looked. Besides, she loved being around so many happy people. And everybody's happy during Wool Week.
Brighton and Natalya got there first, pleasantly surprised to see any of Eydie's desserts left. "Any chance you have some take-home boxes? It's so close to closing time that we'd better just take them to go. I think Harold and Eliot are bringing something home from the diner after finishing up over here, so we'll take this for dessert. Ooh, those look perfect, and those, and those. Why don't you just put together a nice assortment for six?" Bunty came in time to hear what her friends were doing and put in Mabel's request for her own pie-in-a-box. "Eydie, you're amazing! Here we are, exhausted after a long day, with you looking as fresh as a daisy. We all know what went into making, baking, carting and serving these treats for us. Why aren't you knocked off your feet?" Eydie just laughed and told them they should visit her tomorrow and see how fresh she looked. Besides, she loved being around so many happy people. And everybody's happy during Wool Week.
Harold had just come back from an early dinner and was walking their way. "Any of the other 'Merry Men' here, yet? I didn't think so. I know I'm early, but I had to go home and feed the sheep and grab a burger at the diner, and it seemed foolish to just sit there waiting. Did you guys hear? I SOLD ALL THE NECKLACES. Every last one of them! Bunty, you haven't forgotten our deal, have you? Huh? Didn't you tell anyone else? Then, the rest of you don't know that if I sold all the necklaces in my tray I'd be allowed to read my '10 Wonderful Reasons to Love Wool' paper out loud at the last event? Isn't it great?! I'm going to spend tomorrow practicing up. Now, if you don't mind, I'd love a BIG piece of pie and some Hot Cocoa, Eydie. The perfect thing to follow a burger and fries, don't you think?" Eydie just muttered something under her breath and gave Harold a HALF A PIE with his mug. He had a long night ahead, what with having to tear down this hall and cart everything home for the vendors. Besides, it might keep him quiet long enough for the others to regain their composure. Bunty suddenly knew how Frodo felt when the Fellowship was refused entry to Rivendell. She managed a hoarse whisper in response to the scowls on her friends' faces. "How was I to know he'd be able to sell them all? What was I supposed to do? Seemed far-fetched when I made the offer. No, I am not going to wriggle out of it. He earned the right to make that speech at the end of Wool Week. Besides, you don't want to hurt his feelings, do you? Look at him. The fella's fairly busting with happiness. It won't hurt to listen one more time. Just don't listen, then. Pretend you're listening. I don't care. But I'm not going back on my word."
The few left in the hall congregated around Harold's table and made plans for cleaning up and clearing out. The other Merry Men would be here soon, so all decided to pitch in and help get ready for them. It was still kinda cold outside (albeit warmer than this morning had been), and the weather was supposed to clear overnight, but the boys in the club didn't want to be here all night.
It had been a great bazaar, and attendance had been higher than expected. Nearly everyone on the Island had been there at some point during the day, and no one left empty-handed. The red-hair trio had had so much fun that they were sorry the fun was over. Mabel had already piled their bags in the middle of her stall, so the girls laid their take-out boxes next to them. "Wow, Girls! It's a good thing you two have big suitcases. And you were pretty full before today. Why don't we stay a little longer and help clean up a bit before the Merry Men get here? Everyone looks like they could use a bit of help here. You're right, Harold! We are kind of like the Three Musketeers! Knitting needles up, girls. One for all and all for one." The giggling was more than Harold could stomach. He went to find Steviekins for Eydie.
It had been a great bazaar, and attendance had been higher than expected. Nearly everyone on the Island had been there at some point during the day, and no one left empty-handed. The red-hair trio had had so much fun that they were sorry the fun was over. Mabel had already piled their bags in the middle of her stall, so the girls laid their take-out boxes next to them. "Wow, Girls! It's a good thing you two have big suitcases. And you were pretty full before today. Why don't we stay a little longer and help clean up a bit before the Merry Men get here? Everyone looks like they could use a bit of help here. You're right, Harold! We are kind of like the Three Musketeers! Knitting needles up, girls. One for all and all for one." The giggling was more than Harold could stomach. He went to find Steviekins for Eydie.
Everyone piled things into boxes or folded things into bags. Harold came back with the kitty and put him on top of a pile of sweaters, where he curled up to take a nap, completely disinterested in the hustle and bustle. People, he thought. I wonder where that rat in the wall went to? Maybe another time . . . z z z z . . .
Harold told Eydie he'd be glad to help her out by getting rid of another slice of pie and a cup of Wassail. Eydie just laughed and said that she was leaving all the leftovers for the Merry Men to finish off before they left for the night. Harold took inventory, while the others went about their business. Yep, I think there just might be enough. If George doesn't get out of control again, anyway. The Girls, emptying the donation cans into the bag Mabel had been using for today's receipts, were impressed with the amount that was in Mina's can. "You must have sold a lot of Yarn Bowls!" Mina and Joan just smiled at each other and glanced at the stacked baskets sitting under the SOLD sign. "Yep. Lots of Yarn Bowls!"
When they were done, Natalya reached into her pocket and pulled out a camera. "Hey! Let's have Mina take our picture together. For our Wool Week scrapbooks! Say 'SHEEP'!"
Harold told Eydie he'd be glad to help her out by getting rid of another slice of pie and a cup of Wassail. Eydie just laughed and said that she was leaving all the leftovers for the Merry Men to finish off before they left for the night. Harold took inventory, while the others went about their business. Yep, I think there just might be enough. If George doesn't get out of control again, anyway. The Girls, emptying the donation cans into the bag Mabel had been using for today's receipts, were impressed with the amount that was in Mina's can. "You must have sold a lot of Yarn Bowls!" Mina and Joan just smiled at each other and glanced at the stacked baskets sitting under the SOLD sign. "Yep. Lots of Yarn Bowls!"
When they were done, Natalya reached into her pocket and pulled out a camera. "Hey! Let's have Mina take our picture together. For our Wool Week scrapbooks! Say 'SHEEP'!"
Join us tomorrow for another fun-packed Wool Week event. And there's still time to order a Sheep Necklace for your own dolls. "Dolls? What dolls? Who said anything about dolls? They sell dolls here?" "Be quiet, Natalya. It's time for the ad."
(If you would like your dolls to show support for the Longwools, you can send a message through the contact form on this blog to donate $6.00 for a necklace of your own. Color choices vary by availability. All proceeds will go to the Rare Breeds Survival Trust LOVE A LONGWOOL campaign. For real.)
(If you would like your dolls to show support for the Longwools, you can send a message through the contact form on this blog to donate $6.00 for a necklace of your own. Color choices vary by availability. All proceeds will go to the Rare Breeds Survival Trust LOVE A LONGWOOL campaign. For real.)