BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in

Subject: BS: The RespiteTavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 12:01 PM

C'mon in! It's nice and cozy in here with dimmed lighting, nice clean bar, floors, tables, and bathrooms. The windows are open and a fresh, slight breeze carries the scent of freshly turned earth and flowers. The cats are curled on a rug in front of the fireplace. The remant coals of an early morning take-off-the-chill fire draws them nigh. A spray of forsythia blooms rise up from a large vase on the bar and smaller vases of daffodils grace each table.

This is a mellow tavern. One of soft lights, cool, smooth drinks, and no televisions or radios, so it is completely devoid of any outside news. It is a place to come away from your cares and concerns. To tune up and tune in with friends in a mellow blend of voices and instruments. The only rules are no political/war debates and no brawling.

So, let's hear some soothing strumming, melodious mandos, finessed fiddling, sonorous singing and all join in. Bert's credit card has been unmaxed and the drinks are on him!!

Rise up the members of this house
Together come as we
For the summer springs so fresh and green and gay
We'll sing you all a blossom
And a bud on every spring
Drawing near to the merry month of May

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 12:19 PM

Here ya go, kat. I brought a few wands of redbud to stick in that vase of forsythia. Mind if I whip up a fruit smoothie or two? (You've got to scroll down to it, folks.) It seems like a great day for one of those. Would you like one?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 12:33 PM

Hmmm...yummie, Allan, yes, please! Love fruit smoothies! Thanks!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 12:51 PM

There's a place down the road from me where they make a murky green smoothie called a Mudfrog that looks perfectly awful but it tastes wonderful! I think the ones with mango in them are the greatest.

We are just about a week away from seeing the first dogwood blooms here in Virginia; but nearly everything else is bursting forth in leaf or bloom. The weather has been warm and lovely for the past few days, despite a brief, surprise snowstorm late last week. It was nearly 70 degrees (somewhere near 21 C.) here before ten this morning - a beautiful spring day.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Ebbie
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 01:06 PM

I gratefully stack my shootin' arn outside the door with the others that are already there and enter.

Hmmmmmm. Nice atmosphere here. Smells good too. Sorry that the only flower I brought along is a handful of crocuses. The only thing that has come up yet around my house. But at least they smell like spring and add a glowing bit of color.

I'll have a fruit smoothie if you have another one handy?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 01:07 PM

The winter's retreating defeated by Spring............ooooh it's nice in here. Seems like a good idea to get away from all the strife for a while:>)
So glad you have opened The Katlaughin Tavern up Kat. Ill have one of those smoothies if you don't mind Alan.
So who wants to give us a song?........my ears could be doing with something soothing:>) hang on till I just tune my mandolin.... is that a wind harp Im hearing outside..Love a nice breeze so I do....

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 01:14 PM

I'll just make up another blender full for you guys. (I'm starting to think this is why I have kept my blender for all these years - at last it is earning its keep!)

Ya'll can join me in singing "Seeds of Love" if you want. It seems like a good song for this time of year. I like it almost as much as "Seven Golden Daffodils" which, if you don't mind, I'll sing for you after I clean up a bit from all this smoothie making.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 01:24 PM

No complaints here Allan sing away.....as for your blender..bless it, it makes a wonder filled smoothie....
As for "Seven Golden Daffodils"......can hardy wait to hear you sing. A perfect choice. Sigh!! Just keeps getting better by the minute in here.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Rustic Rebel
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 02:25 PM

Hey all, thought I would come in out of the sleet and rest my feet awhile. Smells damn fresh in here, Spaw must not of been here yet! I brought some fresh strawberries if you don't mind whipping up some strawberry margaritas when your done with those smoothies Allen, you know my love for tequila goes deep! I'm going to go over to the corner now and tune up my guitar, soak my harps and get ready for a fine spring jam.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Geoff the Duck
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 03:07 PM

Hey, did I hear the sound of a guitar?
Pass me a long smooth drink, and I'll quack along quietly to myself......
Quack, quack, quack, quack, quack, quack, quack,

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 05:20 PM

No problem at all with the strawberry margaritas, I'll make up a batch in a jiffy. Uh...kat...where'd you put that jiffy when you used it last time? Nevermind, I'll just use the blender.

Musical fact: Anybody remember Fred Waring of "Fred Waring and His Pennsylvanians"? Fred's wife was ill for quite a while to the point at which she was unable to chew and swallow regular food. Fred invented a device that liquified most foods so that she could swallow them. This was the start of the "Waring Blender".

Let's hear something from that mandolin, Alba. Have you gotten that guitar tuned yet, RR?

Geoff, your turn is coming up. Would you like to sing "The Gooey Duck Song" perhaps?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 05:40 PM

Hmmmm, strawberry daquiris sound GREAT!! Throw a little ice in, too, please llan, so they are nice and cool? Thanks for bringing in the fresh strawberries, RR.

Anyone know When it's springtime in the Rockies? We've had a high winds/dirt storm yesterday followed by rain turning to light sno to rain to cloud today.:-) And, yet, everything continues to bloom and the birds are busy building nests. Spring is in the air!!

Sometime in here I'd like to do some harmony on Peace I ask of thee o' river too...ahh....this is nice. So glad you've all joined in.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 05:56 PM

Make mine Raspberry, Allan. And replace the Omega Oil with rum and the nonfat yogurt with heavy cream.

Store-bought daffodils, here. A whole armful. They are selling them to raise money for cancer research.

Nothing from my garden - 4" snow makes that a little difficult.

How interesting! Green Garden Salad Jell-o in the Jell-o pit. Nice touch.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 06:01 PM

Sorry SINSULL, Allan doesn't do raspberries...It's a long story. I'll gladly step aside so that you can do whatever blending you want.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Rustic Rebel
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 06:03 PM

A tall thin lean older gentleman with long dark straggly hair walks in the bar. Slung on his back is a ukulele. He slides up to the bar, asks for a smoothie in any color but purple and introduces himself as Herbert Buckingham Khaury. He grabs his ukulele and performs in a high falsetto tone,

(~~Tiptoe Through The Tulips~~)
(Al Dubin/Joe Burke)
Tiptoe to the window, by the window
that is where I'll be..
Come tiptoe through the tulips with me!

Tiptoe from your pillow,
to the shadow of a willow tree
And tiptoe through the tulips with me!

Knee deep in flowers will stray,
we'll keep the showers away.
And if I kiss you in the garden,
in the moonlight, will you pardon me?
Come tiptoe through the tulips with me!


We all sit quietly mesmerized while he performs. No one dares utter a sound. It's all so bizarre for this to be happening so early in the day when only a few of us are here so far.

He finishes the tune and the applause starts at a slow pace, and picks up to hoots and hollers, cheers and whistles and laughter so pleasing, from the small crowd that we are.

He slams the smoothie and says, "Thank-you, on second thought give me another, please make it purple this time."

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Morticia
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 06:08 PM

In I waltz, an arm full of apple blossom...mix me up one of those smoothies and tip in some rum, Allen...glad to see the diet is going well,Sins *BG*

Fair maids of February, why don't you come out to play?
Fair maids of February, why don't you come out today?

Morti carols off, stage left and checks the Ladies where we inadvertantly left a member of the mudcat chocoladies last time...just in case, you understand.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 06:12 PM

Damn Morti! Is Liz stuck in the stall again? Allan, pass over those Omega Oils. We're going to need them.

And what do you mean, you don't do raspberries? There must be a story there...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 06:22 PM

Only Spaw can do the raspberries!! Well, and da Reg boyz and Pa and Cletus!! And, Cleigh O'Possum!!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Bee-dubya-ell
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 06:50 PM

More musical blender trivia:

Doran Oster who owns Sabine Music, maker of electronic tuners, wireless mics etc. (plus a retail music store in Gainesville, FL) is of the same Oster clan that manufactures Osterizer blenders. He went from blenders to music, exactly the opposite of Fred Waring.

Now, if whoever's tending bar would be so kind as to make me a peanut-butter and grape jelly milkshake in either a Waring or Osterizer or any other brand of blender I would greatly appreciate it.

Hey! Don't make those "gag me with a Smurf" motions until you's tried one. They really are good!

And has anybody seen a roll of duct tape around here?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: artbrooks
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 06:55 PM

The formerly grey-bearded, balding student walks in and sits down at the bar. "Whew,' he says to himself and the beautiful bartender, "just finished another paper. Can I have a beer? Anything except wheat beer or that nasty Guiness stuff." "Anything?" says the Laughing Cat. "Yeah. I know that a place with this much class wouldn't serve any kinda 'light beer' or beer with flavoring. Wait...you have Lambic Kriec on tap? I take that back! Two pints, please!"

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 07:36 PM

Hasn't anyone warned art that all the kegs and all the bottles and all the cans contain Old Turkey Turd Beer? They just recycle the containers.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Rapparee
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 09:53 PM

He enters, reciting quietly

"Whan that Aprille with its shoures soute
The drought of Marche hath pierced to the route
And bathed each vein in swich liquore..."

Liquor. It reminds him.

"Alaska Amber, please. Or Talisker. Or Bushmill's 16 year old Irish. Thanks. No, I don't do fruit smoothies."

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MAG
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 10:31 PM

Since it's virtual. I'll borrow the blender and fix up some of those Tia Maria/Creme de Cacao/ice cream thingies.

It was 79F here on Sunday, with snow flurries ever since. I hope the sweet peas make it.

Rounds over here in this corner ...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Dani
Date: 03 Apr 03 - 10:53 PM

Everything's blooming like crazy here. Dogwoods bobbing and shining over swaths of wild violets, purple and denim blue. Tulips and iris blinking in the rain. Green-and-gold holding up the new phlox blossoms.

The scent of dying hyacinth was replaced with lilacs today. Whew.

It's been a long day... Can I pull up a couch and put my feet up with a glass of water and a jack daniels, straight up? I'll help you do wash those smoothie glasses after I rest for a while, Allan.

Dani

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 04 Apr 03 - 08:25 AM

Take your time, Dani. I am only hoping that you brought along some of that wonderful coffee from The James Pharmacy Restaurant. I could use a dose of caffeine about now. In fact, is there anyone here who knows how to set up an IV?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Rapparee
Date: 04 Apr 03 - 08:40 AM

Quietly he wanders out, drunkenly looking for a place to live....

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 04 Apr 03 - 08:45 AM

Now I don't know who's idea it was to get the bar b q going outside but it smells good whatever's cookin and I have to say that I am a bit hungry now....
Caffeine is a good idea Allen, get us all jumping and maybe give us the shove we need for a few tunes....It's amazing that no matter how many musicians are in here.... the session doesn't get messy, is this Inn heaven!!!!!
My IV skills, Im afraid to say, are nil Allen, but Ill glady make the coffee and keep pouring it, it's the least I can do after all the smoothies you've been making:>)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 04 Apr 03 - 09:58 AM

What you smell on the barbee is an eight pound chunk of fresh tuna that has been marinated in a lime/basil vinegrette. It is just about due for a turning. Maybe if SINSULL and Morticia are through playing in the loo they could dip their hands in some of that stuff Mudlark is going to be using on her rug and then flip the tuna.

Hm-m-m-m..."flip the tuna"...It sounds like it ought to be a euphemism for something, doesn't it?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Morticia
Date: 04 Apr 03 - 10:31 AM

do I have to flip it with my hand.....couldn't I use a cooking bat or something....?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Peg
Date: 04 Apr 03 - 10:38 AM

There's an inch of snow in Boston and the next five days' weather forecast calsl for a wintry mix of precipitation and temps in the 30s-40s. I'm not kidding. *sigh* When can I get to my garden???

Gosh, this place is like my garden ought to be! Lambic Peche or Framboise or Cassis for me...the Kriek is vile!

I have been fasting on fruit, juices and raw nuts for three days; nice spring cleaning...the headaches are gone so I am gonna try to keep on this weekend with it...well, after this lambic of course! :)

Last night my coven performed the Rite of the Awakening; it's the beginning of a whole cycle of rituals based on the agrarian festivals of old Europe, the Demeter-Persephone myth of the Greco-Romans, and (somewhat loosely) on Thomas Tryon's Harvest Home. I am the harvest maiden/Persephone this year.

Here's a bit of its poetry to get us in the mood:

Spring has come up from the south again,
with soft mists in her hair,
and a warm wind in her mouth again,
and budding everywhere.
Spring has come up from the south again,
and her skies are azure fire,
and around her is the awakening
of all the world's desire.
Spring has come up from the south again,
and dreams are in Her eyes,
and music is in Her mouth again,
of love, the never-wise.
Spring has come up from the south again,
and bird and flower and bee,
Know that she is their life and joy,
and immortality!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Dani
Date: 04 Apr 03 - 11:01 AM

Sure I'll bring some coffee. Glad to. And some pecan shortbread to nibble on while we grill. I also brought some lemon-garlic chicken breasts to put on.

WHAT are they doing in the ladies' room?!

Dani

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 04 Apr 03 - 01:07 PM

Morti, I always flip my tuna with my hands, I'd take it kindly if you'd hold with custom.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Gareth
Date: 04 Apr 03 - 06:02 PM

The Chameleon, a hang over from the Mudcat Xmas Tavern, awakes. He sees the ingerdients going into the blender.

The blender runs.

The Chameleon has a nervous breakdown.

Gareth

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: artbrooks
Date: 04 Apr 03 - 06:10 PM

The haggard student looks up from his bowl of gruel..."No Lambic Kriek, eh?" he says. "Well, there are a lot of good microbrews with interesting names...give me an Arrogant Bastard Ale and a Kilt Lifter!" Dead Horse and Liz the Squeak walk into the pub, as if their names had been called...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Apr 03 - 07:21 PM

Now this is really nice....I like the mellow pace this one is moving along at...beautiful words, Peg, loved it, just right for today. Smoothies, good craic...a chameleon who needs some reassurance and a one-colour room, howabout somebodies' pocket?

My headache from last night is finally gone and the BP is smoothing out...it's got to be partly 'cause it's been so good to come in here. You are a great lot, ya know that?!

Anybody know of a good place for Rapaire to move into? i think I'll go back into to auction and invite new member riverrun in here. She's selling off her entire LP collection so she and her family can move cross-country...sounds like she could use a respite, too!

Now, howsabout some tunes? This one's been running through my head...Keep on the sunny side, always on the sunny side....

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Rustic Rebel
Date: 04 Apr 03 - 10:02 PM

Tourquoise eyes and a smell that would drive you to masterbate. That's what she had going for her when she walked into the tavern. Looking around to see if there was a pay phone, she inquired at the bar. I need a lift, Anyone going to Timbuktu anytime in the near? I could only say, "No." Others had no answer. "This could be a trip down memory lane", she replied, listening to Kat singing, "always on the sunny side of life." She said, "I was on the sunny side of life once. I damn near had it made. I thought I had it figured out, but I forgot what it was I was after." I could only reply, "Oh" Others only nodded. She said, "I need a taxi cab and I only have two dollars, I need to find my way to the coast. From there I will grab a ship if I please, or else just hole up for awhile." I responded, "whoa" everyone else, whispered low. " I can sing for my supper, I can sing for a cab, I can do the hoochie-coochie and drive all the men mad" is how she replied. All I could say was ,"Go!" nearby you could hear,"Let's see the show!" So she got up on the table and she danced a hoochie-coo, she had dollars flying at her and she knew just what to do. She flashed a little ass at the prospects in the bar, she figured one of them would get her a little.... bit more down the road. A man with long straggly hair, drinking something that looked like a grape jelly smoothie walked up to her and said, "I might go on down to Timbuktu, I hear they like the Ukelele down there." Delighted with her destiny she said, "alright we're out of here!" As they were walking out the door you could hear her say, "You look a little familiar."

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: open mike
Date: 05 Apr 03 - 05:19 AM

Did someone say strawberries and tequila?! I'll offer up
this new bottle of Puerto Vallarta Reposado--with some
lemon and lime slices in case anyone wants a shot! Now
i have now made it through one year since my parents died .
soon i will return to the town they lived in at the last
of their lives to bury their ashes. This year now is open
to new adventures, new friends, new hopes and opportunities
as I begin to breath a sigh of relief that spring is once
again returning to the earth. April reminds me of this:

e. e. cummings - anyone lived in a pretty how town (29)

anyone lived in a pretty how town
(with up so floating many bells down)
spring summer autumn winter
he sang his didn't he danced his did

Women and men(both little and small)
cared for anyone not at all
they sowed their isn't they reaped their same
sun moon stars rain

children guessed(but only a few
and down they forgot as up they grew
autumn winter spring summer)
that noone loved him more by more

when by now and tree by leaf
she laughed his joy she cried his grief
bird by snow and stir by still
anyone's any was all to her

someones married their everyones
laughed their cryings and did their dance
(sleep wake hope and then)they
said their nevers they slept their dream

stars rain sun moon
(and only the snow can begin to explain
how children are apt to forget to remember
with up so floating many bells down)

one day anyone died i guess
(and noone stooped to kiss his face)
busy folk buried them side by side
little by little and was by was

all by all and deep by deep
and more by more they dream their sleep
noone and anyone earth by april
wish by spirit and if by yes.

Women and men(both dong and ding)
summer autumn winter spring
reaped their sowing and went their came
sun moon stars rain

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Tinker
Date: 05 Apr 03 - 10:30 AM

Ahhhhh, spring has found it's way in here.... The view from my window was so cold and damp and dreary that this is a welcome site. I've been gardening on the rare occasions the temperature rises to sixty.... but the fire on the hearth here has removed the chill and the promise of spring has been brought in from around the globe... Or at least the southern regions.
I need coffee still this morning, but with a good swift shot included. I'll just sit here in the cornor and plan out the goddess garden.... Hmmm any ideas why daisies are dedicated to Venus, Artemis,Freye, and Thor??? Oh well well put in a big clump anyway...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 05 Apr 03 - 12:28 PM

{{{{Hugs}}}} for open mike. Tink, good to hear how the plans are
coming.

Night Owl and I were talking and we decided this tavern needs a couple of Victorian fainting couches, ya know those chaisse lounges of olde? She and I get first dibs, because voila! there they are! One is covered in a soft, plush , deep red velvet with a gorgeous dark trim of fringe hanging all the way round the bottom, tempting the cats. The other is covered in a rich, spring-coloured damask with water silk-like patterns of fern fronds and flowers embossed in it and a beautiful spring green fringe round the bottom.

There's plenty of room, so feel free to bring in your own Barcoloungers, etc....we're getting really

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 05 Apr 03 - 01:28 PM

Ah-h-h. That's perfect! The tuna is ready to serve. Meanwhile, SINSULL and Peg have been putting together a huge salad filled with fresh baby spinach, homegrown tomatoes, rocket, spring oninons and even a few ramps that Bobert sent by air express.

Anybody here know how to make a good salad dressing?

I'm gonna take a short break and relax on one of these slipper couches, sip some of the coffee and munch that pecan shortbread that Dani brought. Yum!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Peg
Date: 05 Apr 03 - 01:51 PM

Here's the dressing for the salad (serves two, so increase as necessary):

Peg's Blood Orange Dressing:

The Juice of one blood orange
A teaspoon of blood orange vinegar
One tablespoon of olive oil
minced fresh garlic to taste
minced fresh thyme to taste
pinch of white pepper
one teaspoon honey

Whisk until smooth...

If you ask nicely perhaps I'll offer the recipe for my Cream of Nettles Soup...although sadly it's too icy and cold in Boston now to go pick them!!!

Hey, can we have some hot drinks over here? And a cushion, there's a good lad...aaah...

Hey, what else is on board for dessert??? (Peg has foregone her spring fast until the weather turns a bit warmer) I could whip up a nice winter fruit salad...imported apples, citrus fruits and California strawberries...drizzled in honey with some chopped raw pecans and almonds...while we dream of local peaches, berries and melons...
just a few months away!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 05 Apr 03 - 02:08 PM

Oh the Tuna is delish, but I spy a Kittie coming...*smile*....
The fainting couch with the damask that echos Spring is the one I have my eye on.Good Idea Kat, just give me a nod when you are ready to rise:>)
Salad..as predicted is crisp and fresh and with Peg's Spring poem still ringing in my ears I am truly embracing Spring now...even with the snow falling outside!!!!
I was wondering if anyone would like some freshly baked Apple pie with some vanilla ice cream (homemeade of course) for desert..oh well it's there if you wish to indulge.
Is that a fiddle I hear playing softly in the corner..........doesn't the Kittie look well resting on the mat at the fire..no doubt with thoughts of warm hugs from whoever she selects to give them:>)
Ah yes I hear the tune now...Margaret's waltz........

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Ebbie
Date: 05 Apr 03 - 04:18 PM

Ah. (I set down the empty smoothie glass and wipe my mouth.) That was good- but now that Rapaire has reminded me, I'll have an Alaskan Amber. I'm surprised you have it. It's an excellent beer from a microbrewery in Juneau but they don't export too much of it.

Put my bit on Bert's tab, if you will, please. Some day we should take up a collection to get his account cleared, but until then, and as long as he is not here, put mine on his tab. He'll scarcely notice it.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 05 Apr 03 - 04:39 PM

hmmm, as I was saying (boy! that fainting couch really knocked me out!) we are really getting mellow!**bg**

Alba, I decided to go for the red velvet one, so feel free to indulge in a rest/nap on the Springy one. I'll bet the kitty will come over, too; she likes to cuddle.

Peg, your winter fruit salad sounds wonderful! Here's a salad dressing my dad made up and we all promptly became *addicted* to, very simple:

Grate the outside of a lemon, for a few shreds of peel, then squeeze the same lemon into a mixing bowl or server. Add a small bit of water and a bit more of light olive oil, then add shaving from the peel. Stir it all up, test it to see if it needs more oil or water and then drizzle it over a fresh salad of greens, tomatoes, scallions, etc. Very light and tangy.

Now then, I see Badger looked a lot better this afternoon when Tig went to visit, so howsabout we have a round of drinks for Badger, Tig and Firekat? Here's to YOUR health, Badger!! And, here's to Magician for helping out and being a good friend!! luvya!!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: SINSULL
Date: 05 Apr 03 - 05:40 PM

Salad? Salad? Is that what I have been doing? Last I remember I was on my way to the Ladies Room to free Liz. What is she doing at the bar? Whose butt did I coat with Omega Oils? And did I wash my hands before starting the salad???? STOP! No body touch the salad until we sort this out...

Damn Allan. How much rum did you put in my smoothie? From now on it's JD on the rocks or nothing.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: artbrooks
Date: 05 Apr 03 - 06:05 PM

Hummm...Victorian fainting couch...red velvet upholstery, only one arm on it...low, well rounded and padded...I think its really a Victorian...never mind.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Doug_Remley
Date: 05 Apr 03 - 08:38 PM

How nice!

Go away for a week and it's make smoothies..not war!!! Well let's get the water boiling for the crab claws and gulf shrimp brought back from virginia, very fresh!!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Dani
Date: 05 Apr 03 - 08:45 PM

A little snooze on that couch was just what was needed. I love coming here, where no one minds if I do.

Ooh, since we've got the fire going, how 'bout we throw some oysters on to roast? With a bottle of Texas Pete, and NOW I'm ready for that ice-cold Yuengling Lager!

Dani

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: open mike
Date: 06 Apr 03 - 05:31 AM

where the heck are we going to get blood orange
vinegar for pete's sake?!
I'll bring some recently pressed olive oil,
and i have garlic and how about some of my neighbor's
elderberry vinegar for the dressing?
and lots of parsley for the salad!
you folks really know how to throw a party,
I am glad we are friends!
I think i will begin to unbuckle the instrument
cases and tune up in preparation for a wonderful
music-filled session. (washing food off hands first..)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 06 Apr 03 - 08:08 AM

I'm not sure who to thank for the hubbard squash chunks that appear to have been dipped in a butter sauce before they were put on the barbee. They won't take long at all. Meanwhile, I'll put together a dusting of sugar, cloves, mace and cinnamon to put on them when they're ready.

The shad run has begun at Fredericksburg, Virginia and I have managed to score a few big ones. We could plank 'em and prop them next to the coals of the BBQ. It might take a while to bake them that way, but they'll be well worth the wait.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Yorkshire Tony
Date: 06 Apr 03 - 08:09 AM

The southern hemisphere door opens and a bearded figure and ancient tortoiseshell cat enter with a few Autumn roses for the floral collage, two healthy thirsts and a taste for tuna.

I'll have one of those fruity things please - I need my vitamin C with Winter coming on - and a Bailey's for the cat. Nice drop of rain we've had lately - things have greened up nicely since the bushfires - but the nights are getting chilly.

Hearing the delightful strains of Margarets Waltz, YT tries to organise a dance, while Kishi (aka Camo) curles up on the rug with her Bailey's and tuna.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Peg
Date: 06 Apr 03 - 12:15 PM

I bought some lovely blood orange vinegar at a little Salumeria in the North End in Boston...hmm, I guess it is a bit of a specialty item. the ingredients, however, are blood orange juice and red wine vinegar, so one could easly make it I suppose...or simply make the dressing with blood orange juice and red wine vinegar...necessity is the mother of invention!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 06 Apr 03 - 01:41 PM

In case you should want to try some of that blood orange vinegar Peg mentioned, you can find it and quite a wonderful bunch of other goodieshere.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 06 Apr 03 - 02:21 PM

Hope Im not too late for one of those smoothies. Brought a large bunch of Daffodils...don't ya just love daff's!!!! Got some Paya and lime here too...nice and refreshing.


Has anyone checked that Liz is not stuck in the Ladies...she doesn't seem to have appeared since the Christmas Tavern....hope she is ok and has plenty of chocolate and alcohol to keep her going!!

Micca enters with a armful of hipflasks filled with some alcoholic concoction which may or may not be hazardous to the drinkers health. On the outside are symbols such as 'for external application only' and 'Not to be taken internally'!!

The Mudcat Chocoladies are all sat in a sunny corner sporting their matching T shirts made by Sorcha...Morty wearing the original! ..eagarly waiting the arrival of the Queen of Chocolate herself (Liz for those who don't know!!)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: SINSULL
Date: 06 Apr 03 - 03:01 PM

Liz is over at the bar. No one knows who or what was stuck in the Ladies room but it's gone now. For heaven's sake, don't let anyone light a match near Micca. my but he does look handsome in his kilt. Can't help it - the man is sooooo sexy!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Morticia
Date: 06 Apr 03 - 07:33 PM

Sins darlin', you so need to get out more....

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 06 Apr 03 - 07:34 PM

thank God - Micca - give me a couple of those flasks...I have had this coud for FOUR days now - and if *anything* will kill them bugs - it should be in one of your flasks...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: artbrooks
Date: 06 Apr 03 - 09:39 PM

Yeah, give me one, too...I've had this terrible case of athletes' foot for a while now...and is it good for warts?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: SINSULL
Date: 06 Apr 03 - 10:03 PM

Just finished my Income Taxes, at least the rough forms. NYC partial, NYS partial, Maine partial, Federal, and some SCHEDULES I can't identify. I don't understand it. I made less money this year than ever before and i have at least six times more paper work to file. I am beginning to understand why people just drop out of sight...so I needa JD on the rocks with a twist and a hug from Micca. Wish I could explain it, Morty. Micca and a few others are just irresistible when i am worn out...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: SINSULL
Date: 06 Apr 03 - 10:05 PM

But I haven't sunk so low as to be tempted to imbibe...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 07 Apr 03 - 08:00 AM

Now, as always, I am faced with the question of whether to sing or to eat. It is always such a difficult choice...S'pose I'll just have to have a drink while I ponder it. Anybody seen that bottle of #12 Dickel around here lately?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: *daylia*
Date: 07 Apr 03 - 09:54 AM

Mmmmm, did someone say something about edible ChocoLadies T-shirts? Can I order one over the counter, or do I need a prescription?

Ahh ladies, ladies, sipping those chocolate smoothies so sweetly, Shirts melting so deliciously in the sunlight ... how can I resist? Imbibe, imbibe ...

Now, is that a Chocoholics Anonymous meeting going on on the back porch?
Great! I just love being powerless over chocolate ...

daylia

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Dani
Date: 07 Apr 03 - 09:55 AM

Sing, Allan, SING! We'll eat when our voices wear out:

"In heaven there is no beer
that's why we drink it here
and when we are gone from here
Our friends will be drinking all the beer!"

Another thread mentioned Sparky Rucker this morning, and it got me thinking of an old song he does called "The Welcome Table". Anyone know it? Want to join in on the chorus?

"I'm gonna sit at the Welcome Table one of these days"

Allan, after that line, can you come in with a nice, low, "Hallelujah"?

Dani

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 07 Apr 03 - 05:33 PM

Dunno how I got to the bar, I've been in 'forn parts' for a while.....

Hand us up another haggis juice and sling another Mars Bar in the fryer!

Get yer hand's off my Tshirt, it has a lot of work to do yet!

Now, who's for a nice Gin and Onyx?

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Yorkshire Tony
Date: 07 Apr 03 - 07:34 PM

Chocolate T-shirts! Hmm, you could get pretty sticky in a nice close waltz. But I suppose licking the residue off afterwards might be fun.

Gin and Oryx, Liz? Is that some obscure African dish? First catch and clean your Oryx. Marinate in Gin and Juniper berries then roast over a slow fire basting frequently. Sounds pretty good actually.

A gin has another meaning around here of course. Hence the local non-PC version of 'All for me grog': I spent all me tin in the shanty with a gin, now across the Western plains I must wander.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Gloredhel
Date: 07 Apr 03 - 08:09 PM

A blonde kid sulks in. It's been a frustrating day, and she's really hoping that the legal drinking age in this country is not 21. She plonks herself down heavily in a comfy looking armchair, and hopes the nice atmosphere will improve her acid mood before anyone talks to her (she doesn't want to snap at anyone).

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Yorkshire Tony
Date: 07 Apr 03 - 08:33 PM

Well Gloredhel - they serve alcohol to 18 year old cats so I don't see why 18 year old humans should be an exception. I think the Mudcat Tavern is pretty cosmopolitan, so you are probably only constrained by your own preconceptions. Eh bien, aujourdhui nous sommes francais. D'accord?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 07 Apr 03 - 08:37 PM

Grab a smoothie there Gloredhel and warm yer toes by the fire. You don't have to speak, this place is very tuned in and no-one will disturb you till your chilled.
Try a deep fried Mars Bar.. (oh how I miss those, so good to find them here)... maybe a choco hit is just the thing you need...:>)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Rt Revd Sir jOhn from Hull
Date: 07 Apr 03 - 11:56 PM

hEloo, waht a is all this aboit? i donyt knoew waht this is about at all.john

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Rustic Rebel
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 12:29 AM

It seems all this talk of food has made me lose my appetite, I need a drink. Strawberry margarita please.
John, just come on in and grab yourself a drink and party on my friend. This is about whatever your mind makes it!
I'm tuned up and tuning up, can't say where that might lead me. Yorkshire, you've made it through the fires! You still have some soot on your ear there, or have you been around the bar-b-que pit?
I see the cats are coming around, makes me want to do a little song...(Willie Dixon)

Well I ain't superstitious, but a black cat crossed my trail,
well, I ain't superstitious but a black cat, just crossed my trail.
Now don't you sweep me with a broom,
that's a sign I'll end up in jail.

Whew-that was fun, need more music, more dancing, more deep-fried candy and more tequila!

So I wonder back to the bar reciting-(Karl Marx)
In flowery grove I lost my way,
where forest spring showers silver spray....

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 01:14 AM

Sage drives up, and after opening the back of her pickup to reach the cooler, takes a pan of brine-soaked salmon ready to cook over to the smoker end of the barbecue. Laying them out carefully in the slow heat and smoke, she looks rather skeptically at the shad.

Allan, is there anything to eat on that boney fish once it's cooked? I know a little ditty about the sorry shad:

Shad roe comes from scarlet shad fish.
Shad fish have a very sorry fate.
Pregnant shad fish is a sad fish,
Got that way without a mate.

Moving indoors, she sees the blenders at work. Did anyone bring raspberries?

Ooooh, nice looking couches, but they're in use. I have my recliner out in the back of the pickup, I'll just roll it up near the fireplace. There's also a hand-crochetted shawl from a Mudcat auction as a light cover for napping, or for this afternoon, leaning back and sipping a smoothie while listening to music and waiting to turn the salmon.

One of the cats stirs and approaches the recliner, picking up the scent of the cat named Clementine who usually naps on this particular chair.

The pussy curls up on the recliner. . .

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: open mike
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 01:40 AM

what there's fires in yourkshire?
is yorkshire tony from some place else?
any other fire fighters here?
I think i'll make some smores on the
hot coals if no one minds..nothin'
a toasdty marshmallow, a couple of
slabs of chocolate and a graham
cracker all sdone up into a sandwich
won't cure! any one else want one?
want to raost your own? like to
catch those litle 'mallows on fire?
be careful with those flaming orbs..
don't want to have to answer to a
911 call in the middle of the party!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Yorkshire Tony
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 02:41 AM

When not frequenting the Mudcat Tavern I am in exile in Australia. 26 years transported but beware. I am coming home for a visit in July. I will be posting my itinerary a bit nearer the date looking for good clubs or sessions.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: artbrooks
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 08:45 AM

An errant spark from the fire drifts over and sets the Christmas tree alight...somebody suggests the guys could put it out in the time-honored way. but the gals veto the idea...Open Mike says "leave it, so I can toast my smores." Somebody else grabs a couple of abandoned, half-empty smoothies from the bar and extinguishes the flames. The somewhat charred and needleless tree is dragged to the Southwest desert door and tossed through...

A brilliant blue snat comes through the door, climbs up the wall, across the ceiling and down the other side, and curls up in Liz's ample lap and begins to purr.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 10:05 AM

Er. . . snat?

Wuzzat?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 10:11 AM

it's that brilliant blue six-legged sticky-pawed felinoid curled up in LtS's lap purring...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 10:31 AM

Okay. I just hope it doesn't stir up the duck.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 10:55 AM

Don't you worry about the Duck now Sage.....it can handle itself pretty well I'm told in a face off with a felinoid.
The Duck has a personal trainer which it hired from all the money it made on a TV comercial for a backup Insurance plan in the US...so it's all set...could be messy though so I'd put that Snat down if I where you and let them sort it out between themselves...my money is on the Duck though!
Anyone know any good tunes/songs to accompany this spat if it breaks out??:>)
Nothing like a bit of drama to get us all up and playing, we were getting a bit too relaxed here, not that that is a "bad" thing but then all this eating and drinking can do that!!!
Would someone mind closing the window so the smoke from "tree" stays out?
.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 12:37 PM

My calico tarantula-killer Clementine has hopped in my lap and asked if she may visit the tavern through that Southwest door, but I told her she'd end up smelling like singed fir and she'd probably just tangle with the duck and the snat to boot.

Time to go put some more chips under the salmon. Any more fruit smoothies being whipped up, Allan? And what are you going to do with the shad?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 01:42 PM

To answer your question, SRS, I plan to slow-cook those shad after having pegged them to an oak board. They'll be propped next to the campfire and...Oh, you didn't see the campfire? It is down there near the Southeastern doorway. Just follow the oak and hickory smoke.

Shad planking has somehow evolved into a political event in Virginia. You can read more about that and see photos of an actual shad planking at this slow-to-load site.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 02:35 PM

SINSULL...should I be getting jealeous???...all this calling my Mr Gorgeous and Sexy!!!! but his hugs are good!!!!

I think I'll have one of those deep fried Mars Bars haven't had one of them since I left Yorkshire!!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Ebbie
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 03:41 PM

Ebbie bestirs herself from a lazily relaxed doze. Her feet hit the floor. I've been wondering, she says, just what iswhat?

(My smircle is call.)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Apr 03 - 10:59 PM

Whoaaa. . . that was some nap. . .

Sage pushes the cat off of her comforter and sits up in the lounger.

"Must be something in those fruit smoothies. Maybe the fruit was a tad fermented?"

OHMYGOSH the Salmon!!!

Charging out the door, Sage dashes to the smoker and finds the salmon is exactly right, soft, salty, smokey, and ready to cool before eating.

Glancing back toward the tavern, she sees Naemanson and MMario rolling a big keg of something toward the Northeast door, and sees a figure in female clothes huddled against the outside intersection of the wall and chimney, apparently ripping off bindings of duct tape. She has never met him before, but is downwind of him, and would swear that this figure is none other than Catspaw--in drag! Was this who was trapped in the ladies' loo, not LTS?

Picking up a large platter of warm salmon, she heads back inside to place the fish in the institutional-sized fridge to cool the fish quickly.

Wake up! Come take a look outside by the chimney! I think Spaw came to celebrate spring at the tavern!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 02:08 PM

Well, a spring revel was a nice idea, but I think the sound of CNN's war coverage blaring from the television in the next tavern over has distracted most of the usual visitors. I'll just pack up the cooked salmon and pop it in the freezer for the next time. Better roll the chair back to the pickup also. . .

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Ebbie
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 02:58 PM

A vast conspiracy, this is. My post was truncated.   I said, Just what is a deep-fried Mars Bar? Fried in what? Oil seems redundant. I've had a frozen one, though.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 03:04 PM

just waiting for the slow-cooked shad to get done. they are *really* slow cooked...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 03:04 PM

I'd love to help, but I've got this snat curled up on my lap, plus my Dr says I have to take it easy..... could someone just pop my feet up on that pouffe please? And another jug of water would be good....

That salmon smells good, undressed for me please, with a little bit of lettuce?

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 03:19 PM

Well, dang! Mario, I was hoping you'd remember to bring along a sauce with which to baste those shad. I've been trying to make do with some olive oil; but they need a little something extra.

SRS, don'tcha be rushin' off in the shank of the afternoon like that. We have only just begun! Here, let me give you a hand unloading that chair...there's a nice spot on the edge of the shade of that corkscrew willow over there.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 03:26 PM

There now the TV has been turned down now in the next Tarvern...it so nice to have your request honored gracefully. They also asked if the noise of their Pool table and it's "Team" where disturbing us but I said no......I can hear our music just fine....makes a change though from some of the "Inns" I have played in.
Now Liz...there's your water...and just let me pull that pouffe over for your tootsies.
Right then...onto business...Salmon....Salad and a glass of White Wine...anyone got any suggestions what "White" would be good with the shad?
Better keep that chair here SRS...there's a car full of Folks just pulled up and we may just need it!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 03:28 PM

Me, too, LtS, on the taking it easy bit. This Tavern and its occupants have gone a long way to helping with that bit, though. Just a little more music-making would be nice, though. It sure has been mellow and I purr-lee do appreciate folks being so respectful of that wish. 'course, I think the fainting couches helped and all of the good cookin', those smoothies really do go down smoooth and wh, heck, the pusseens purr real nice like, too. How could a person not be mellow in here?

How about we freshen up the posies with some newly cut sprays of pussy-willows and I've got some potted primroses that smell so delicious! Hmmmm...now just a little livelier and let's hear some of that Justa Picker's hot licks..., esp. that Nazareth Pilgrim Blues. That'll get your toes tapping...c'mon gals, you guys, too, let's dance a little!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MAG
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 05:20 PM

Atlantic Crossing played here for a pece benefit \appril 1 (Give peace a dance, of course) and I actually danced the first whole dance. I love these fake-cartilege gel injections. Great dance tunes; here's the CD I purchased, unless anyone knows the tunes ...?

Oh, here's my band book. Drowsy Maggie? You Married my Daughter? (and yet ...)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 05:46 PM

Okay, here is the salmon, ready to go. I'll just leave it on the bar. But watch out for those smoothies! They're too smooth by far!

Thanks for putting my chair by the corkscrew willow, Allan. I've always thought they were lovely trees. Last one I had must have been tasty also--the local beaver munched it off at ground level one night!

That shad does smell good--are the planks ready to eat yet?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: artbrooks
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 06:11 PM

I picked up a case of St. Michelle Gewertztraminer...anyone care for a taste with the salmon or shad?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 06:18 PM

oooooo yes please Art!!!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Tinker
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 06:37 PM

Is one of those fainting couches available???? The youngest had 104 temp last night and I could use a quick dozzze. A little Salmon, a little wine, and a fond gaze out the southern door where the sun knows how to shine.... Oh and perhaps one of those smoothies to keep my vitamin C up ya know...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Morticia
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 07:00 PM

Tink, you passing on the Cock o' the North? You must be tired, hon, take my place on the fainting couch, I was only providing a dozing place for a cat anyway.( Which always reminds me of the story of the Chinese Emperor who cut off the sleeve of a priceless silk robe because a kitten was sleeping on it....my cats want him in their next life time).

Allen, I'm not sure I know what shad is, but they smell pretty good...I have never been one to let non-recognition of a food stuff get in my way of trying it...although the story of when I first ate raw fish bears repetition....but only to an adult audience and only when I have had enough smoothies :)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 07:31 PM

HeyaTink, just lie back and relax, darlin'...smoothie coming right up! Puir dear..how's the child today?

Morteeluv, I'd always thought it was Siddhartha who cut his sleeve off, but when I went looking I found this beautiful little legend. Gather round ya'll...storytime is here, so have one ready, eh? Here ya go:

In the Islamic world, the cat was respected and protected because cats were loved by the prophet Mohammed, the founder of Islam. There is a story that Mohammed's cat Muezza once fell asleep on the sleeve of his master's robe --instead of disturbing his beloved cat when he had to leave, Mohammed cut off the sleeve of his robe so she could continue her catnap. When he came home, Muezza was so grateful that she stood up and bowed to him. Mohammed was deeply touched, and as a reward he granted all cats the ability to land on their feet.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 10:02 PM

I borrowed some of that Gewürztraminer, mixed it with the olive oil and tossed in some finely chopped shallots along with some roasted garlic and a dash or two of cayenne and nutmeg. It seems to have worked well as a baste for the shad. They are ready to eat now and there is plenty to go around since they each weighed in at nearly seven pounds. I plan to have a taste of it myself along with a wedge of the hubbard squash; but I've been wanting to try a chunk of that salmon, too. Oh, there's still some tuna left if anyone wants some more.

Glad to see that someone else has figured out how to make the smoothies. I'd like some mango and papaya in the next one please.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: SINSULL
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 10:17 PM

JD on the rocks with a twist. I get silly on smoothies.

Not to worry catP. I worship from afar. Micca and I spent a totally platonic week on the road a while back. Alice, on the other hand, was totally enamored of the sweet man and marked her territory, so to speak. You don't want to cross paths with her.

I will have my steak medium with a side of whatever you are basting with butter on the grill.

Mortie...one more word about my diet and I will sit on your sorry little self less 17 lbs. Good for you love. Bet you look great!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Tinker
Date: 09 Apr 03 - 11:05 PM

As only a nine year old can do, his temp is in the low elevations and he's worried about missing soccer practice...Which was cancelled due to snow covered fields...Mom on the other hand is beat.

Now I know there is another bottle of Cock of the North in the Dinning Room, but at the moment we'd have to raise a full expedition to find our way into the room and thorough the mountainous accumulations. Perhaps someone from your side of the pond could bring one in Morti???

Allan, a man after my heart cookin so wonderfully... perhaps a bit of Shad and squash and a bit of the fresh salad with blood orange dressing... Does anyone's neighborhood have fiddleheads yet??? Perhaps the fish will lure a couple of kitties to come purr me a lullabye....

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 10 Apr 03 - 12:55 AM

Here ya go, Tink, my Kelpie is a HUGE purrer and she knows the "Hobo's Lullabye"...the words are just for you...

Go to sleep oh weary Tinker
Let the night drift slowly by (purr, purr)
Can't you hear the pusseens purring?
That's a Tinker's lullabye...(purr...purrr..rummmmble, rummmble...)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Apr 03 - 11:55 AM

All of the cats suddenly lift their heads, perk up their ears, and dash to the western window sill (ample to hold all cats, even the plump calico) and twitch their tails joyfully as a yellow-bellied sapsucker taptaptaptaptaptaptaptaps its way up a nearby tree. Then to the cats' delight, two grackles begin a tussle over a shredded but sturdy piece of paper as each vies for good nesting materials.

Ack ack ack ack ack akc! is the throaty noise heard from the cats.

Sage thinks to herself Too bad the human activity in here seems to be all quiet and genteel. It's much more amusing when the sap starts flowing and a few couples can be observed to slink off to dark corners or disappear through doorways into the night. The christmas tree is outta here, but maybe we should bring in a Maypole pretty soon. That might get people moving!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 10 Apr 03 - 01:27 PM

MMario just grabs a couple bottles at random, scoops a keg of double coffee-buzz-buzz-buzz-cappichino-expresso-fudge ice cream from the cooler and disappears into the room marked "Plague - Do Not Enter" . The feebly croaked words the door slams on appear to be "gimme drugs. lots of 'em. NOW!"

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Morticia
Date: 10 Apr 03 - 01:54 PM

That would be you still having that cold,then MMario? I know, a hot toddy the way my old mum makes them will cure pretty much anything,including death.I'll go mix one up straight away.....now, what did I do with the shredded bats wing?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Rustic Rebel
Date: 10 Apr 03 - 11:28 PM

Jeez- just look what happens when we let those cats run wild and drink all the Baileys...click
The next thing we know they will be having sex and producing litters and some may just end up with kittens that have, well...fetal alcohol problems!
And letting them hang around all day drinking and lounging on the fainting couches certainly can't be to good for them!they end up looking like this!
My conclusion to this is the cats just have to start sharing that Baileys.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Apr 03 - 12:00 AM

NO WAY!! protests Clementine! There's plump, then there's obscene!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 11 Apr 03 - 08:29 AM

What I'd like to know is what Clementine has gotten into. The eyes appear to be crossed for some reason - or was that just an expression of opinion regarding the fat cat?

Mario, I'm glad you made it this far before collapsing. I'm sure there is some TLC to be found here.

I'm about finished with the grilling and such. It's time to lean up against this willow and sing something. Anyone happen to know if there exists a happy song that contains the word, willow? Now there's a challenge!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 11 Apr 03 - 08:32 AM

*hack,cough,hack,sputter,hack,cough*

I'm almost feeling human again... aren't modern drugs a wonderful thing? Even when they take three tries to get the presciption written correctly so that the pharmecy can actually dispense it.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Tinker
Date: 11 Apr 03 - 09:02 AM

Allan, how about this one Twanky Dillo It loooks pretty cheery...

Here's a health to the pretty girl
The one I love best
She kindles her fire
All in her own breast
Which makes his bright hammer
To rise and to fall
There's the old coal, and the young coal
And the old coal of all
Twanky dillo, twanky dillo
Twanky dillo, dillo, dillo, dillo
And the roaring pair of bagpipes
Made from the green willow

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Apr 03 - 09:24 AM

That's Clementine, a little bit cross-eyed (she's a mix, including some Siamese). That is pretty much her normal expression.

Sage suggests singing a little operetta. Tit Willow would allow you to sing about your dickie bird, AllanC!
;-)

MMario, was the binge eating in the back room to do with poor health? Ice cream is not the way to go--fortunately the Chinese take-out that's just around the corner out the eastern door of the tavern has excellent hot and sour soup. I'll step over and buy you a quart--that will open any passages that need opening and cauterize anything that needs healing on its way through. Here, you can sit in my lounge chair for a while (you supplied the shawl, so it will be like old home week!) and don't be surprised--Clementine always curls up with whoever lounges in this chair.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 11 Apr 03 - 09:42 AM

mmmmmm- hot and sour soup - one of my favorites.

"cold creamy and soft" was actually *prescribed* yesterday...(okay - heartily suggested; though I enjoyed it!)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 11 Apr 03 - 07:46 PM

Hmm, you know, a girl could get to like this place... more water please, and just a little less ice?

I can almost feel the blood pressure easing back to the low 80's (given that it was 110/70 Wednesday) and the chest pains have stopped... just a couple more days sleeping in the chair and I'll be ready for some light reading..... these heavy books do your wrists a mischief!

Slide on over here with that tuna mate, undressed please, easy on the side salad.

Now where did that snat go?

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 12 Apr 03 - 11:37 AM

Sorry bout the ice there...a bit heavy handed. As for the snat! I am afraid we are snatless for now as it appears to have done a runner since the Duck showed his true colors.....Ninja duck!
I enjoyed that wee dance there but a bit breathless (due to overconsumption of Food!) have found refuge over here near the fire.
I am trying to sip my Irish coffee but it just tastes so good I fear it won't last too long......
The smell of the Shad and the warmth of the embers are making me think that a song might be in order.
Shall I start...., this was brought to mind by a post I read in the "other" world.
Anyone else feel like singing the Mingulay boat song..Ill harmonize?
Heel yo ho Boys, let her go boys,
Bring her head round, now all together.
Heel yo ho boys, let her go boys,
Sailing home, home to Mingulay............................

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 Apr 03 - 08:32 PM

Ah, Alba! A good choice and one I actually know! Great harmonising, too.

Snats and smoothies
Mogs and ninja ducks
Fainting couches
With reclined ladies
Who could ask for any more?

Well, the fellers are a nice touch, too!! Thanks, ya'll for making this the MELLOWEST YELLOW Tavern of all! How about another tune?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MAG
Date: 13 Apr 03 - 12:02 AM

I just happen to have a good-sized catnip plant here I brought in from the car -- we'll put it way up on this HIGH shelf over the mantel and pinch off leaves for the kitties if they be good. There's my Gremlin, rolling on the rug already. Are grey cats naturally more drawn to catnip? Mine always have been ...

How pleasant to be here amongst good company, letting the world roar by outside. I arrive later and later, what with Daylight Time allowing more time in the garden. Here are some extra slips I'll stick in out back, after going over a patch with my noiseless cultivator. lilies of the valley, red sunflowers, yellow iris ... anybody handy want to put in a goldfish pond, complete with stoen benches and walkway?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 13 Apr 03 - 12:14 AM

there's a nice koi pond in the back garden - you just go past the faery droppings, turn left at the Cleigh O'Possum Memorial Cairn o'Pellets, and about 20 yards on...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 13 Apr 03 - 09:39 AM

Funny, none of my cats have ever shown the slightest inclination towards catnip... perhaps they're afraid it will lead them to something stronger...... I'll just stick with this bag of brazil nuts and the water thanks....

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Apr 03 - 12:23 PM

Er, MAG. . .don't take it personally that Clementine is climbing your leg with those back claws of hers. And those chomps on your hand and arm, those are just love bites.

Put the catnip down slowly. . .put your hands up. . .step back from the catnip. . .no one will get hurt. . .

Funny. I didn't know Clementine knew how to use a bullhorn. Who is the ventriloquist? It's that darned Snat!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: SINSULL
Date: 13 Apr 03 - 01:21 PM

Allan can bulid a pool for the goldfish complete with waterfall. Hmmm...Allan can do just about anything. He cooks, sings, plays guitar, carves, plumbs, and more. Allan, why are you still single?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: *daylia*
Date: 13 Apr 03 - 02:36 PM

Not ready for an institution yet maybe?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 13 Apr 03 - 03:06 PM

To be honest, SINSULL, I've been somewhat out of circulation until recently. Fortunately, there are lovely soirées such as this at which I can spend time with 'Catters, most specifically those of the female persuasion. Who knows what might happen? After all, as I've noted before, Female folkies are beautiful!

P.S. Thanks for the advert, Sins.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 13 Apr 03 - 11:18 PM

And this man is coming to see us soon?

Move over Snat, I need to get my songbook out......

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: open mike
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 12:50 AM

hmmmmm glancing at the single men,
taking notes...maybe a song will
encourage some harmonies?

Its a song, a sigh of the weary...
Hard times, hard times,
come again no more....

nice to be in the company of these
people and critters to chase the lonlies away..

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 01:38 AM

To begin things, we could all do a dance that everyone knows. I've sent the cat home, she'd be underfoot. Maybe now is a good time to try another smoothie?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Yorkshire Tony
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 02:53 AM

The willow seems to have been associated with regret in most folk songs that I know:

The willow tree will twist and the willow tree will twine
I wish I were in that young maid's arms that once held this heart of mine
(The seeds of love)

For he swore he'd never deceive me and I like a silly believed he
As the moon and the stars so brightly shone over the willow tree
(The weeping willow tree)

The there's All Around My Hat of course.

Another dance sounds like a good idea. Nothing too energetic though - I am feeling very mellow. So how about a bit of Playford - four couples for Newcastle. Can the musos handle the tune? Would any of the ladies like to dance with me?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 09:25 AM

"All Around My Hat" would be a good, upbeat song as would "There Is A Tavern In the Town" despite the sad tale it tells.

I rarely dance; but don't mind putting my "right foot in" etc. for a while.

Speaking of hats, anyone here know how to do a proper Mexican hat dance? You're never too old, you know. Failing that, I could easily be persuaded to lead a Virginia Reel. You can find the dots for a backing tune for it here.

I'm sure to have a mighty thirst after that. OM, if you're headed to the kitchen after "Hard Times" is done, would you please bring back a tonic water for me? I like it plain, please. No ice. Thanks!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 10:56 AM

Ah, this just keeps being so mellow and nice! Here's one of my favs with a mention of a willow tree. I really love singing this song by Ferron...

RETURN

Refrain:
To lay my head on your blessed arm
I take my cue from the willow tree,
for it don't break from just one storm,
but bends with a strength that sets it free.

Verses:

When I was young my love was bold
Bold like rock and rock like cold
Kind love came and said it would be true
But I turned away as though I always knew

That bonds are formed from outside time
Our major goal is to absolve our crimes
Let your steps be travelled with that knowing smile
It's no toss of coins that longest mile

For those who think don't analyze
For those who weep, dry your eyes to see
It's from those we've served, a paradise
And from those we've wronged, pure ectasy

Because happiness is a moment's glance
The spin inside the circle's charm
And I walked my line to have my chance
To lay my head on your blessed arm.
© Nemesis 1983

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 12:38 PM

Lovely choice there Kat and beautifully rendered.
So nice to come in here and hear a song that leaves no doubt as to it's meaning, away from the cyber world of words that sometimes just do not convey the emotion behind them!
I have just thought that perhaps this song might be appropriate for both singers and players?
Just let me grab another Irish Coffee..need to ease up on these:>)..oh but they taste so good!....anyone what one while Im up?
While Im collecting it...does anyone else wish to join in....find a key that's suits...
Ah the breeze from the open Window feels nice against the brow.....

DANCING AT WHITSUN

Tis fifty long Springtimes since she was a bride,
but still you may see her at each Whitsuntide,
In a dress of white linen and ribbons of green,
As green as her memories of Lovin.

The Feet that were nimble tread carefully now,
as gentle a measure as age will allow,
Through the groves of white blossoms, by fields of young corn.
Where once she was pledged to her true Love.
JA Marshall.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MAG
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 01:26 PM

I notice that Clementine is indeed a grey cat in some spots.

Allan, I'd love a dance if you don't mind a little extra padding ...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Noreen
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 02:15 PM

May I join in, Alba?
Been singing this to myself recently, think it's due an outing:

The fields they stand empty, the hedges grow free
No young men to tend them or pastures go see
They are gone where the forest of oak trees before
Have gone, to be wasted in battle.

Down from the green farmlands and from their loved ones
Marched husbands and brothers and fathers and sons
There's a fine roll of honour where the Maypole once stood,
And the ladies go dancing at Whitsun.

There's a straight row of houses in these latter days
All covering the downs where the sheep used to graze.
There's a field of red poppies and a wreath from the Queen
But the ladies remember at Whitsun
And the ladies go dancing at Whitsun

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Noreen
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 02:24 PM

And I enjoyed Hard Times too thanks, Laurel- that is a powerful song when all join in as they just did... shall we do it at the Yorkshire Gathering, Allan?

Now... a peach and strawberry smoothie... or an Irish Coffee? What a choice. May I have both???

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 02:43 PM

of course you can Noreen......that's what makes this place so good!. Limitless food and no calories to worry about and Limitless Beverages and no Hangovers or morning after the night before worries....so Irish Coffee coming up !
Loved your singing on the Song there Noreen...a joy to the ear ma' dear..*BG*..one of my favorites that.
Who is making the smoothies now that Alan is spinning the light fantastic...way to go Alan for someone who says he doesn't dance too often, yourself and Mag are putting my clumsy efforts too shame.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 02:54 PM

MAG, the way I dance, a little extra padding is not a bad thing to have!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 04:14 PM

AllanC, are steel toed boots required? ;-)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 04:39 PM

Steel toe shoes aren't required; but might be a good idea if we happen to be slow-dancing or else if dancing the Tarentella. You did see the "Dance At Your Own Peril" sign near the southern entry, didn't you? There's a reason...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Apr 03 - 09:56 PM

Ah ha! I knew there was a reason Clementine liked this place--she catches tarantulas! Don't spoil her fun and stomp them!

It's spring, is there something a little more suggestive in the dance list here? Less stomp, more sinuous?

;->

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MAG
Date: 15 Apr 03 - 12:31 AM

I haven't done sinuous since modren dance class dearie; we need Peg to give us some lessons. And the tangos I've seen are a little further than I want to go in public. I will forgive a great deal in a guy who can waltz. -- MA

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 15 Apr 03 - 03:10 AM

Well, if ya wanna liven it up a bit and we can find LeeJ to play it, I'd do Wipe-out with ya, Allan! They used to make a circle around my boyfriend and me to watch our hips, etc. go...and I can still do it, just can't sustain it for as long! Does get the blood going, though! Of course...it's not very mellow!**bg**

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 15 Apr 03 - 08:19 AM

Do you know how to Pony like Boney Maroni? Can you do The Peppermint Twist? Let's do The Freddie! The Fly! The Boogaloo! The Jerk!

Yeah, sure! Nope. Not me. I might be persuaded to join someone in a slow and sensuous Stroll, although my preference would be to take MAG up on the offer of a waltz. Next maybe kat will join me in a dance while Johhny Rivers sings, "Slow Dancin', swayin' to the music...". Then maybe someone will put on that old Mamma's and Pappas recording of "Do You Wanna Dance?" (which I have always thought to be one of the coolest things I ever heard,) and well...who'd like to dance to that one?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: artbrooks
Date: 15 Apr 03 - 09:20 AM

You all go right ahead and do slinky dances. (Allan!! Siddown!!) I'll just sit here in the leather recliner, sip on the gevertztraminer, and pet the snat. Irish Coffee? No, thanks...please leave out the Irish and make mine Kona. What's that you say while you look at the guys, OM? "Hard times come again no more"...I've heard there's a cure for that...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 15 Apr 03 - 10:01 AM

No problem...Kona coming up!
Oh Allan was having such fun there Art...I was just going to start another tune from the Mamas and papas, well not their tune but they did it so well..Dream a little dream of me?
Always loved the lyrics of that one..
Stars shining high above you,
Night breezes seem to whisper I love you,
Birds singing in the Sycamore trees,
Dream a little dream of me.
I am unable to dance at the moment as the Tarentella knocked the stuffing out of me! I wasn't stomping on the Spiders as it goes against my thoughts regarding them, but avoiding them demanded very tricky footwork!!
Nice to see the Snat back. You have to admire his tenacity, but are Felinoids tenacious or just impervious to blows. I so hope it's the latter as my large Black Kitt 'Simon" has his eye on it now. Between Ninja Ducks and Simon, this Snat isn't getting much "respite" in here!!!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 16 Apr 03 - 04:28 AM

I've done more dancing here in this short time than I have done in the past two decades altogether! I suppose anything is possible in cyberspace. If nobody minds, I have had an old Kingston Trio song in my head today and I feel like singing it:

RIVER RUN DOWN
Don MacArthur/John Stewart
Chorus:
Oh, the river run down but the stream ran dry. Big strong man don't ever cry.
Just stands to watch his love go by. Oh, the river ran down but the stream ran dry.

Yes, he loved a woman but he let her get away. Didn't ever think he'd regret that day.
The laugh and the smile, he'd still play the game, but he knew that day would never be the same.

(Chorus)

There walks a man, he could've had a home, fine baby children, a woman of his own.
He walks all alone. He doesn't have a care but he keeps on thinking that he sees her ev'rywhere.

(Chorus)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Noreen
Date: 16 Apr 03 - 06:08 AM

Aaaah...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 16 Apr 03 - 11:10 PM

Here's a song especially for Naemanson:

E INU TATOU E (Drinking Song)

E inu tatou e
hara E inu tatou ite ava e
E inu tatou e
E inu tatou e
hara E inu tatou ite ava e
E inu tatou e

A rave hoi oe
A rave hoi oe
A rave ite mau peu ri'i e
A rave e--
ite mau peu ri'i mau ae te man
ote vahine e.
______

I hope he enjoys his time in Guam!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 17 Apr 03 - 08:12 AM

Maori?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Noreen
Date: 17 Apr 03 - 09:07 AM

MMaori?
:0)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 17 Apr 03 - 09:40 AM

Truth is that the song appears to be in Tahitian. It was written by a guy named George Archer though, so go figure. You can find a sample of how it sounds here. My best guess is that the title translates as something like, "Would You Like To Go Get A Drink With Me?" I know I am a few thousand miles off, but It is as close as I could come.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 17 Apr 03 - 09:44 AM

closer then if it were Maori. *grin*

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 17 Apr 03 - 10:03 AM

Smoothies in a hollowed out Coconut shell with a straw..mmmhhh....interesting!
Maybe we should throw a party for Naemanson.....investigate the songs of Guam Island! He tells me that some of the harmonies used are quite beautiful and due to the Spanish rule on the Island there is a strong influence in the Music. Sounds like it could be a fun time?
Keep the South door closed to keep the "snakes" that everyone is mentioning out please, although they might take care of the surviving "spiders" from the Tarentella :>)
A

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Apr 03 - 10:35 AM

As Brett gets ready to make his big move, it's time to pull out the scrap book. I'm pasting some links here that I stuck into the one with the Dylan photo yesterday. I had a lot of fun digging out this stuff, compiled from two entries:

For the novelty, I did a few searches:

Bob Dylan and more images via Google.

Arlo Guthrie and the Google Image search.

Joni Mitchell and the full image search.

Carole King and the full image search.

Carly Simon and the rest of the search.

James Taylor and the whole image search.

Mick Jagger and the whole search.

Joan Baez and the whole search.

Peter, Paul and Mary and the image search.

Pete Seeger and the rest of the search.

Oscar Brand and the rest of the search.

Enjoy!


Or there are more:

Jean Ritchie and the rest of the search.

Clinton Hammond and the rest of the search.

Kendall Morse

Rick Fielding and the rest of the search.

MMario or the rest of the search (sorry about that Leo. . . ).

Smoothies all around, pull up your hammocks, barcaloungers, recliners, and pass around the scrap books for a few minutes. Try not to get cat hair or duck down under the plastic photo covers, please.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 17 Apr 03 - 10:38 AM

I was having a bad hair day.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Apr 03 - 10:40 AM

You caught that fast! I only just sent it.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Alba
Date: 17 Apr 03 - 07:19 PM

*BG* Thank you for the fun Sage:>)The scrap book is really enjoyable.
I have to say that Mr Dylan does not look any better or worse for the "blonde do" he is sporting on another thread!
Now if I could just look as good as Joan Id be a happy woman..she looks great!.... Nice to put faces to some Mudcat names as well.
This hammock is just too comfy! May I have another Smoothie please and hold the umbrella, Ill recycle.

A

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Rustic Rebel
Date: 18 Apr 03 - 04:11 PM

Hey Sage, what about Tiny Tim? He was, after all, a visitor to the tavern earlier!
Well, I have to say those strawberry margaritas sure are going down nicely. So much song and dance makes me want to play some horsehoes so I set some up outside, through the western door if anyone wants to play. I was out there practicing so I can almost hit the pit but those damn things keep rolling out in the tall grass and hard to find, I think I need to paint the shoes bright fluorescent pink and yellow. Yeah that's what I'm going to do, gotta go to the paint store. In the meantime have at 'em!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 18 Apr 03 - 04:33 PM

Yeah, I hate it when they "cartwheel" RR. The paint is probably a good idea. There is nothing quite like the ring of the well-thrown horseshoe when it hooks the post. I'd be glad to join in a round or two with you once the pain dries.

I think I'll switch to Kentucky iced tea for a while...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Apr 03 - 01:57 AM

Ok, Rustic, but he's visiting from "Beyond." I'm not going to include the photo from his casket (but it's online and you'll find it on the search page. Geez Louise, but some people don't know when to stop!). I found a couple of other odd icons of the '60's to include also.

Tiny Tim and the rest of the Google Search.

Pat Paulson.

Ted Lynch as Lurch and a later photo.

And if you're tired of looking at odd people, here's Sean Connery (and a great "rest of the search").

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: GUEST,CLETUS
Date: 19 Apr 03 - 02:27 AM

Scuze us yall but me an Paw an Buford an the Reg Boyz wuzza wundrin iffen we mite git uz sum reespite heer oursels? Miz kat allus bin purty nice an all an we hadduz a kinda bad nite. Thingz bin goin rite poorly fer uz an tonite we thot wud be purty gud but our last porta potty dun got blowd up an set the condom factree on fire. I dunno whut weer gonna do now but mebbee iffen we git ta thinkin on it weel git it figgered out. So mebbee yall cud see yer way cleer ta mebbee giv uz one uv them Smooties and 6 straws and weel jus sit over thair in thet corner and mind our own bizniz or tha fact thet now we got no bizniz. Much Obliged.

CLETUS HARDINGER

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Apr 03 - 11:59 AM

For the Cletus narrative part of this scrap book visit Here and here.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: catspaw49
Date: 19 Apr 03 - 12:54 PM

And if...gawd help you.....you want to read more of the adventures of Cletus, Paw, Buford, and the Reg Boys, they are all over at Tweed's Place where they are known as The Chronicles of Cletus

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 19 Apr 03 - 01:36 PM

Oh boy! The Reg boyz, Paw, Cletus, Spaw...who else?! That was something what you boyz did with those dollies, alright. Ya'll just set yer little bums down over there and we'll get you mellowed out in no time. Not YOU, Spaw! You and me have some litter to clean up. Didja bring that dump truck I toldya to? Hmmmmm...there's goes the respite!**bg**

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MAG
Date: 20 Apr 03 - 03:45 AM

Well, I'm ready for some respite. Just got home from the monthly dance where I doodle along in the contra band and my calluses have had a great workout. I needed it.

Before that it was a stinky day, what with my boss creating major grief for me for not good reason other than that she's a military brat control freak.

I haven't gone blotto for many many years; cut that out in my twenties after friends filled me in on what I did at parties I couldn't remember.

Now I'm ready for a virtual bender. the whole blenderful, friend ... that's right, a giant strawberry daquiri and the spare barcolounger ... and both my kitties on my lap Thanks, all, I'll just nod out here quietly.

After church tomorrow (that's right, Susan, I am a practicing UU) I'm going to put all my flats out into the garden; the most sacred thing I know. Turn my weekend around ... ah, yes; the first hit is reaching my brain ...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 21 Apr 03 - 01:38 AM

Better slide a smoothie my way with a little something alcoholish in it--my muscles are aching after lurching through my proposed garden patch behind a borrowed tiller! Gardens are sacred, and are a great source of community pride! My neighbors all know that they'll be dining on the proceeds of my garden, and I'm pleased to know that they're looking forward to it. But for now my shoulders ache and I don't have anything to offer AllanC to add to his blender. Well, unless you count the bugs that the grackles think are MARVELOUS now that I've been disturbing the yard! They didn't wait for me to turn off the machine and walk away from it. They seem to know I won't challenge them for whatever those wiggling brown bugs are.

Move over snat, I need to stretch out on the recliner for a few minutes. . . (Sage is heard to be be breathing evenly, head turned to the side, not quite drooling in her sleep, her smoothie sitting neglected on a side table, forming a ring of condensation on the faux wood)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 21 Apr 03 - 08:21 AM

Currently on the buffet table (just east of the bar and west of the jello pit) We got egg salad, curried eggs, pickled eggs, mustard eggs, dill eggs, and about umpty-billion flavours of jelly beans. feel free to indulge.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: artbrooks
Date: 21 Apr 03 - 08:45 AM

The snat crawls quickly over to the buffet table and ingests 3 curried eggs and 4 pickled ones. (Don't know how a snat eats? You're probably better off.) He then goes up the wall, over the ceiling and down the opposite side, taking up a position right over the heads of Cletus and the boys. Pausing for another moment to complete his digestion, he lets loose a terrific eggy miasma. After the nature of snat farts, it is strictly limited to a defined space, so it settles over Cletus, Reg, Paw and all but doesn't spread beyond the immediate vicinity. "Aww," says Cletus, as a satisfied, if bemused, smile spreads over his bewhiskered face. "Thet's whut I calls reel horsepitalicity! Yuns is gud peepul."

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 21 Apr 03 - 09:14 AM

Perfect, Mario. This is, after all, National Boiled Egg Week. I'm not kidding!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 21 Apr 03 - 05:54 PM

Ah, thanks for that picture of Sean....

Dancing - vertical expression of a horizontal desire... think I'll stay on the couch with that picture of Sean.....

Snat - I have trained you well, the fart is strong within you.

National Boiled Egg week.... Hmmmmmmmmmm

I'll see what I can do, but there are only 8 left after the pancake and omelette feast we had earlier.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Apr 03 - 10:03 AM

Lest a future reader stumble upon this retired thread and think I've pulled a Rip Van Winkle, I guess it's time to end this nap! Setting aside a sleeping cat and the comforter in one move, so the cat remains in the same position and still nestled in the folds of the comforter, Sage surveys the room.

National Boiled Egg week, indeed! I see there are no deviled eggs on the bar, so I'll contribute a batch I made yesterday. Topped with a sprinkling of paprika, of course!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 22 Apr 03 - 10:15 AM

y'know - you used to be able to get pullet eggs during the period before Easter - haven't seen them in the stores for ages. "pee-wee" sized. I actually liked them for making hors-doevres etc any time of year.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 22 Apr 03 - 10:48 AM

Hope nobody minds, but I'm in the mood to put "Four Women" on the CD player. It is one of Nina Simone's best works.

After that, I'm wanting something a bit more "up" like Buddy Guy doing "She's Nineteen Years Old" or Taj Mahal's "Farther On Down the Road". (Am I the only one who hears "further" rather than "farther"?)

I believe I'll try a couple of those deviled eggs. I've got a small dish full of Thai pepper sauce to dip them in. Anyone else want some?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Apr 03 - 10:21 PM

There's a hint of tobasco in there already, just enough to give it a little zing. Plus some (as we fondly refer to it around here) "What's-It-Shit" sauce. A friend always used to call in "Winchester" sauce. And mustard, mayo, a little salt. Paprika on top, I suppose you could use cayenne (sp?) if you wanted to jolt the diners at your table. Or offer Thai sauce. . .

I think the respite has done the trick, and it's time to load up the pickup truck and trundle on into spring. I'll be looking for a summer doldrums event, when we can kick back with the ceiling fans and a shady room and enjoy the fruits of our gardens in nice salads and other dishes. Unless, of course, any of us enter from the southern hemisphere door, and shake off snow as they step into our humid environs.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Matt_R
Date: 23 Apr 03 - 12:43 AM

Oi, what's all this, then?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 23 Apr 03 - 08:21 AM

Matt! You've missed some good parties, buddy! And some incredible songs - have you had a gander at the MudCat Rainbow Collection? Pull up a stool - pour yourself a drink of whatever it is you want - and open that throat of yours and give us some tunes!!!!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Matt_R
Date: 23 Apr 03 - 10:26 PM

Thanks. Not sure what I've been working on recently is stardard fare 'round here though...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 14 Mar 04 - 12:00 PM

I know it is a bit early in the year to resurrect this thread. Even here in Texas the new leaves of the trees are just starting to appear. The redbud is leading them with a burst of violet. Seeing that reminded me of this thread in connection with what some folks have said about "the good old days" of the Mudcat and what others have mentioned with regard to what they like about the Mudcat. I think this thread certainly shows that those good days aren't really gone. There are still a lot of wonderfully creative folks and good times yet to be had here. This thread is certainly on my list of what I like about the Mudcat.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 14 Mar 04 - 06:48 PM

And strangely enough, we have 8 eggs left in the fridge.

And I'm 2 stones lighter than I was when I posted that information originally!

Spring is sprung, der grass is ris.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 12:18 AM

Well, I've got a volunteer tulip coming up and my French irises are also showing up green. Thanks, Allan, for the reminder of this thread. :-) Oh, also saw and heard my first meadowlark of the season!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Rustic Rebel
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 12:26 AM

Allen C., my son, your living in the past. Should we resurrect an old drunk, is what I must ask? Are you a lazy sort that won't clean up our act from last year and begin anew? Are you trying to re-hire an old barkeep that has given' up the job for lent? Do you think I'm going to climb into a lime jello pit that has fermented and molded with a years time? Not to mention the boiled eggs that have sat for a year and by now quite rancid and now requiring infectious material removal. I think I require a clean slate. A new atmosphere
Maybe I've just drunk too many tequilas and that's why I'm here.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Amos
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 10:48 AM

Well, all apearances to the contrary notwithstanding I am glad this Respite Tavern is here; I need respite in the worst way. But maybe just exercise will do? Ya never know!


A

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 10:55 AM

hmmmm - ever notice that re-spite and respite would be almost identical if re-spite were a word? though why anyone would wish to spite again I have no idea.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 11:07 AM

Yeah, Mario. It would be recipe, too, if it were spelled differently.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 11:18 AM

okay - so I'm lousy at humour. *sheepish grin* and my brain works in strange directions. I blame it on the sub-space hyperganglionic connnections.

Stick the caffiene IV in my vein and let me collapse on a couch somewhere.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Amos
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 11:58 AM

Just don't give him the carving knife from behind the bar. Why not? The mood he's in he just might re-cut off his re-nose just to re-spite his re-face! And that would relieve him looking ridiculous!

A

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MAG
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 01:34 PM

well, we just truck in the giant conduit sized hose and spritz the place out good. maybe put a glass wall in over here to bring in some natural light. and a picnic patio.

my bulbs are all up, I could use a virtual cognac, and how many oiunds in a stone, Liz?

I have stopped dragging around one extra size, myself. about time.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 05:27 PM

English stones have 14 English pounds in them. English Pounds have 100 new pence in them or 16 English ounces.

I reiterate English because I know they are different in the States....   2 stones work out to about 112 cups, if a cup is 4 ounces. That's 28 packs of butter. Yum.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 06:21 PM

It works out to 14 pounds per stone, Liz. It appears that the avoirdupois measurement of pounds is used on both sides of the Atlantic for some odd reason. Why the colonies rid themselves of stones is something about which I can only offer conjecture. It is my belief that the stones were used as ballast for the return trip of the ships that brought us across. Otherwise, without the weight of the former passengers the ships would have bobbed erratically and most certainly would have capsized. Napoleon used a similar tactic when he first crossed the Rockies.

History as told by Allan...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 06:28 PM

Napoleon crossed the Rockies in boats? Wow!! I thought he used elephants!

Or was that in his retreat across the Mississippi?

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 06:33 PM

The first Surgeon General reccomended the removal of stones as posing a health problem as our Founding Fathers grew older. Stones can cause many problems among older men.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Matt_R
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 07:25 PM



Ah! I smell all a' horse piss!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Mar 04 - 09:33 PM

[stage whisper: Fortunately, Ashcroft is recovering from his stone-removal surgery far away from here!]

My daffodils are popping up now, several have opened. Fill me a nice glass of shiraz, please! I'll sit out on the porch and sip it while I admire the field beside the tavern. Wildflowers are blooming, and it'll keep all of MAG's remodeling dust from stirring up my allergies. (If you'll recall, over the last holidays we got rid of the jello pit altogether and put in a hot tub). What ever happened to that tree that was suspended in the harness we rigged up for catsPHiddle--is that it, stacked in the woodpile? Is she ready to trip the light fantastic in here yet? (Diagram that next to last sentence!)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Mar 04 - 12:29 AM

Here, kitty kitty kitty,    here, kitty kitty kitty,    here, kitty kitty kitty. . .

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 16 Mar 04 - 03:25 AM

Khats is still doing her flamingo impression, although it seems to be getting easier for her to sit without taking up the entire sofa.

However, I'm available, if you'll forgive the panda eyes from another sleepless night, even WITH the sleeping pills!

Got 9 different flowers out in my garden, mostly purple ones. My bay tree is doing strange things and there are blue tits trying to nest in a clematis.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 16 Mar 04 - 10:48 AM

WOBH! I just checked the smoker and the slow-cooked shad AREN'T DONE YET!!!!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 16 Mar 04 - 12:11 PM

It shouldn't be much longer, though, Mario. Once those thousands of tiny bones are limp enough to swallow, they are ready!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 16 Mar 04 - 06:28 PM

Well, today I spent a very restful half hour sitting in my garden, in the sunshine, contemplating my pussy willow. It's about to burst into fluff, my favourite part of Spring.

It's been so warm and damp recently that I appear to be cultivating a grand crop of some fungus, although it's where the cats "go" so I suspect it's not very nice. Will dispose of it in traditional manner as soon as I can find the trowel. It's a curious looking thing nonetheless....

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Tinker
Date: 16 Mar 04 - 07:40 PM

If I leave the boots at the door can I come on in ??? There's a nor'easter here and I need one of those fruity drinks with lots of rum and a view of the flowers and sunshine... The calendar says spring is quickly approaching I'm just rambling in an attempt to find it...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: MMario
Date: 16 Mar 04 - 09:37 PM

we have about 8 inches of snow on the ground so far today - and still 6 hours to go before the storm is suppossed to pass over us.

Gimmee somthin' HOT please.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: matai
Date: 17 Mar 04 - 06:37 AM

'well he walked in the joint i could see he was a man of distinction a real big spender good lookin so refined wouldn't you like to see whats goin on in my mind......'and she slowly drew off her glove...
but i guess you dont mean that kind of hot

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Bee-dubya-ell
Date: 17 Mar 04 - 01:03 PM

Well, today I spent a very restful half hour sitting in my garden, in the sunshine, contemplating my pussy willow. It's about to burst into fluff, my favourite part of Spring.

Damn, Liz! You must have lost some weight if you can contemplate your own pussy willow! Taken up a little contortionism on the side as well, have we? Please don't tell me you cheated and used a mirror.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 17 Mar 04 - 01:12 PM

I'll take that kind of HOT! (But then I'll need a cold shower - again - self defeating...)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 17 Mar 04 - 08:26 PM

Ah, BeeDub - if only!

however, with some judicious pulling and craning my neck, it is possible to see my pussy willow. It just depends on which part of the pond you sit on. Sit in the wrong place and the plant pot gets in the way.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Mar 04 - 08:52 PM

I love that song--Shirley MacLaine did a good version, but oh, could Peggy Lee belt it out!

Contemplating fuzzy pussy willows and blue tits--Liz, that is a Must-See garden, I can tell from here! (My next door neighbor has a "shade" garden for ferns and such under a large hackberry--but right now it has these many clusters of fungus that look like she's growing brains out there!)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Mar 04 - 06:50 PM

Liz, what's in your PG-rated garden today? The tavern is quiet, has everyone taken their drinks out to check out her the blue tits?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 18 Mar 04 - 08:22 PM

Dunno what's in the garden, been busy in the bedroom.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: GUEST,MAG in public lab at work
Date: 18 Mar 04 - 08:25 PM

I may not get my home machine back until Tuesday. Nothing wrong except a really serious attempt to infect it, apparently. annoying, and no doubt expensive.

I am off to Singtime Frolics this weekend where I expect to have a wunnerful wunnerful time and forget all about it.

Right now I will join y'all on the patio/porch and indulge in several virtual cognacs.

Rounds, anyone? The musical kind, I mean.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: matai
Date: 19 Mar 04 - 05:52 AM

well if there is a bar stool that could accommodate a tallish, well built woman with a washburn guitar and a baroque/broke voice i could do Baez's 'Diamonds and Rust' or my smultchy version of 'Iris' (googoo dolls) or any number of songs inbetween like 'What gars ye greet my bonnie lass?' (Bob McNeill) or 'Scrub and Blackberry' (Paul Bond) plus a few of my own with your vocal and instrumental accompaniment. It would make my day/night your time.

afterwards, just to add some husk to my voice, i could go for a strawberry and ice-cream thick shake.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 19 Mar 04 - 08:09 AM

Mike's over there in the corner, matai. Have a go, if you're inclined. Oh and there's a stage with a microphone just to your left.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Mar 04 - 07:09 PM

Just don't slip on the wet spot near the hot tub. . .oops . . . well, your skirt will dry, and the guys hopefully averted there eyes when you took that tumble. The guitar looks okay, and the bruises will heal in a couple of weeks. . . barkeep, what did you put in this woman's strawberry milkshake?

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: matai
Date: 20 Mar 04 - 04:59 AM

Which Mike for what purpose? Did I ask for that?
And why do you want me to fall down Stilly Sage? I haven't even got up there yet. You might like what I do. Want to join in even.

You folks sure do make a woman from downunder welcome

}:-(

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Allan C.
Date: 20 Mar 04 - 07:58 AM

All in fun, matai. Any "tallish, well built woman with a washburn guitar and a baroque/broke voice" is certainly a friend of mine!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: GUEST,Lonesome EJ
Date: 21 Mar 04 - 03:15 AM

The old man and the boy stood on the bank of the creek. The stream, which had trickled through a snow-choked channel only a month ago, was now rushing with meltwater from far up the mountain. It was still a meager flow compared to the torrent it would become in a few more weeks, though, and the boy balanced on a boulder to thrust a stick into it. "See, Grampa?" he said. "It's halfway up the tree limb now!" The old man sat and, taking a kitchen match from the brim of his hat, re-lit his pipe. He sat on an old weather-peeled log and patted the space next to him. The boy came and sat, jabbing in the pine needles with his stick. The old man gradually raised his arm, pointing a gnarled forefinger at a rock overhang some four feet above the creek bed. "Watch and you'll likely see somethin'" he said. The boy sat staring at the rock for a while in excitement, then anxiousness, then weariness, and finally he let his body roll backwards off the log, shooting at a bluejay with his stick in the fir above him.

Suddenly, he felt the old man reach under his back and raise him back up onto the log. The old man pointed again, and this time the boy saw the otter, who poked its nose out from under the rock, sniffing, its eyes watery as if with sleep. After a momentary hesitation, it clambered part way down the bank and then slid into the creek. It disappeared in the cloudy water, but then broke surface near a small boulder, paddling in the calm backwater casually, turning to catch the sun on his belly.

The boy glanced up to see another otter and three tiny kits emerge from beneath the rock. The female nudged the infants forward until they slid floundering in the water. The male seemed to watch this exercise with some amusement, then submerged briefly, then re-emerged near the other four. The old man and the boy watched for some time until the boy made an effort to approach the kits and frightened the family back to their lair.

"Now you scared em Charlie," said the old man, and it wasn't until he saw the quizzical look on the boy's face that the old man realized he was calling the boy by another boy's name, another boy that had stood on this same spot some thirty years ago, a boy who had become this boy's father. The old man tapped out his pipe and thought of all the springs and all the litters of young otters who had made their first journey from the warm safety of the lair to this strange cold moving world. And that made him think of all the other Marches of his life, and of how that portentious month had always borne him a load of hardship and hope, of bitter endings and bright beginnings, an equal freight of life and death. He mused that this was his third spring without Maisie and that the pain of that ending, which had been as sharp as the blade of a knife, had become something he could finally begin to let go of, the pain slipping away like the rushing water before him, until the memories of her were only the warm and sweet ones that gave him comfort. He watched the boy balancing on a rock and holding the stick in the air. The separation of the boy's parents had caused his son to leave the child in the old man's care for the spring. And there was an ending and a beginning in that too. After the initial awkwardness, the boy had taken to his grampa, and had left his computer games long enough to ride in the old truck, or help carry in firewood, or walk down to the creek.
The old man rose from his seat, stretched, and put his pipe in his shirt pocket. "Come on Charlie" he said, and this time the boy only smiled, leaned the stick against a boulder and ran to catch up with the man who, as if by instinct, took the boy's hand firmly but gently in his own as he walked up the trail.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: matai
Date: 21 Mar 04 - 07:23 AM

Beautiful. I feel quite rested after reading that.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 21 Mar 04 - 08:50 AM

Well today is certainly living up to the reputation of March - in like a lion, out like a lamb... howling gales yesterday and now intermittent showers between the most glorious bright sunshine that's warm and soothing.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 21 Mar 04 - 10:46 AM

The Mudcat Tavern is known for its silliness, Matai, and we all have to be careful about tripping over ducks and cats. There have been some improvements--for example, the hot tub is now where the green jello pit used to be. Keep an eye on the rafters--things sometimes swing down from up there. That said, the accoustics are fabulous, the food and booze keep coming, and it's all on an un-expiring VISA card left behind years ago by a Mudcatter who hasn't been around to visit for a while. There are some very interesting doors to enter and leave, including a coat closet that exits out the back into the Mudcat Recovery Ward and several hemispherical doors for our global visitors to use.

Sorry about the wet spot. We'll get someone in here to clean that up. :)

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 21 Mar 04 - 12:39 PM

HeyaLeeJ, you are STILL a tall drink a'water! Bee-U-Tee-Full, darlin' and welcome back to the Tavern!!

It's been the week from hell out here, so somebody get me a couple of shots of tequila, lime and salt, quick, please! And, let's hear some Blues!! I gotta kick this outta my system...oops, forgot my own set-up...this is the quiet, restful place isn't it? Oh, well, forget the shots, just a nice hot cuppa, some tunes from downunder, welcome matai, and I'll just stop to catch my breath...probably what I really need anyway!

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: katlaughing
Date: 21 Mar 04 - 01:19 PM

Well, I missed the news above e're I came in here. Now, I am glad of the quiet and would raise a glass of sorrow and fare-thee-well for our beloved Rick Fielding. Would someone lead us in Jerry Ramussen's Handful of Songs, please? And, when we're ready, Rick's own "Sing with the angels..."

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 21 Mar 04 - 05:36 PM

When you're done with those songs, I've got another one for Rick- scroll up to find Ian Robb's words for the Sacred Harp song Halleluia here.

Allison

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: GUEST,MAG in Portland
Date: 21 Mar 04 - 09:59 PM

The fire is out; the moon is down

The parting glass is dry and done

and I must go and leave this town

Before the rising of the sun

Long the road and far the mile

Before I rest my soul again
With those who weep and those who smile

And all the ways and wrds of men.

for you, Rick. it's a parting song, and any parting song seems right about now.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Mar 04 - 01:24 AM

MAG, great minds think alike. This evening I spent some time transcribing Paddy Graber's version of "Parting Glass" :

Of all the money that e'er I spent
I've spent it in good company
And all the harm that ever I did
Sure alas it was to none but me

And all I've done for want of wit
To memory now I can't recall
Oh come fill to me the parting glass
Good luck and joy be with you all

If I had money enough to spend
And leisure to sit awhile
There is a fair maid in the town
That sorely has my heart beguiled

Her roughish eye, her ruby lips
She has in faith my heart enthralled
So fill to me the parting glass
Good night and joy be with you all

Oh, of all the comrades that e'er I had
They're sorry for my going away
And of all the sweethearts that e'er I had
Sue they'd bid me one more night to stay

And since it falls unto my lot
That I must rise yet you need not
I will gently rise I will softly call
Oh may peace and joy be with you all.

Spoken:

Deep Peace of the running wave to you
Deep Peace of the flowing air to you
Deep Peace of the quiet earth to you
But above all, peace.

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 22 Mar 04 - 06:31 PM

For Fliss, Rod, Dave, Wally, Tony, Judith and now Rick, along with all the others.
They aren't here but they know who they are.

We gather here together, friends both old and new,
To share our songs and laughter, tell a stirring tale or two.
But time is rolling onwards, and the toll it takes is dear;
And every year there's one less voice, who will it be next year?

When first we met in company, when none the other knew,
We shared our songs and laughter,
and friendships bloomed and grew.
In harmony and unison, our voices blended clear;
But every year there's one less voice, who will it be next year?

The songs we sang were old ones, songs of peace and war,
Of sailing ships and lovers' arms, the miners' life and more.
But all of them in common, were pleasing to the ear;
But every year there's one less voice, who will it be next year?

So raise your voices up boys, in memory of those now gone.
Give thanks for those who gather to carry on the song,
And keep it ringing out now, keep singing through the tears,
So every year there's one more voice, who will it be next year?


Tune: The Rose of York (My name it is Mark Fenner)


A toast. To absent Friends.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 01:26 PM

Blue tits? Mine are still pink from mastitis. HMMM you think those birds can offer some advice on a color chage? Pink just doesn't suit me.

I stopped by for a nice cold fruity drink.And half hoped Rick might be here. There has to be a door to the hereafter somewhere in this place...

Subject: RE: BS: The Respite Tavern - Spring on in
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 06:23 PM

You want blue tits? Fly over here and sit topless in the garden for an hour or two - I'll guarantee your tits will be seven shades of blue and purple in that time or less! It has turned decidedly chilly again, I know because Max the cat got into my nightshirt again this morning!

Either that, or he was a titspervert in a former life (Bridget Jones fans will know what I mean!)

LTS