With a WOOSH he tumbled out of the tunnel and into her arms. The two hugged, giggled and shared whisker kisses. They were always so pleased to spend time together.
After a few minutes Stinky asked what they were going to be doing today. Periwinkle said they were going to celebrate a birthday. Confused, Stinky asked who was having a birthday? He knew it wasn't him and it wasn't Periwinkle. Was it Raz or Allie? Periwinkle laughed and said nope....it's the Birthday of the U.S. Coastguard!! "Wow" said Stinky. "That sure sounds like a fun party" Periwinkle agreed and they popped back into the Teleportation Tunnel to head to the party.
On the way she told him "Every year, August 4 is celebrated as the U.S. Coast Guard Birthday, commemorating the military organization for its valor and discipline. Since 1790, the U.S. Coast Guard has kept the nation’s waterways safe, playing a critical role in national security.
The U.S. Coast Guard patrols our coasts for drug smugglers, human trafficking and both domestic and international terrorism. As the bad guys (and girls) have gotten more savvy with technology, the Coast Guard has developed sophisticated, effective technology to combat crimes on the water and at our ports. It’s a 24/7 job. Today, let’s give the U.S. Coast Guard the love it deserves."
"WHOA.....look at that helicopter" shouted Stinky! "Do you think we can hitch a ride?" Periwinkle hesitated because she worried about Stinky getting over tired. She talked to the pilot and he agreed to take them up for a spin.
Stinky saw Periwinkle's hesitation and said they didn't have to go. She knew he really wanted to and said she would be happy to stay on the ground and take a photo. "You're the BEST, that's why I like you so much," said Stinky as he ran off to the helicopter. Periwinkle always loved to hear that Stinky liked her a lot since she liked him too.
With shaking paws, Periwinkle snapped this photo and said a prayer that Periwinkle would stay safe. She knew he was buckled in and was having such a good time.
Periwinkle ran up to Stinky when he landed. She was so relieved he was back on the ground. "That was solo much fun! Thanks for letting me go." He gave Periwinkle a big hug and a kiss that made her blush.
"What's next?" "We're going to tour a ship" said Periwinkle. She assured them that they would not be getting their paws wet and off they went!
Both tabbies enjoyed feeling the sea breeze run through their furs and Periwinkle told Stinky a little bit more about the Coast Guard. "Here are some interesting facts about the Coast Guard.
1. "The oldest serving Coast Guard member was 105
Anthony Christy, who manned the Christiana Lighthouse in Delaware, died while on duty in 1862.
2.High standards for U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmers
The qualifying criteria is so tough that 50% of applicants fail every year.
3.A dog served in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II
Sinbad was an official member of the crew, complete with his uniform, his own bunk, and paperwork.
4.U.S. Coast Guard tracks movements of icebergs
The U.S. Coast Guard is a part of the International Ice Patrol, which monitors and reports movements of icebergs around the world."
Although they thought #3 was interesting, both agreed that, as cats, they would prefer NOT to be in the Coast Guard. They had too much responsibility taking care of their humans and fursibs.
Soon it was time for them to teleport back to Periwinkle's house. They said one more Happy Birthday and were on their way!
When they got to Periwinkle's house Stinky said "Gee Periwinkle, I was kind of hoping for a cake to celebrate," "I've got Temptations and Fancy Feast ready for us to enjoy on our back deck." said Periwinkle. Stinky agreed that some quiet time together was a great idea so off to the deck they went.
The two enjoyed their snack and talked about the wonderful time they had last week visiting Stinky's garden and reminiscing about Angel Mau. Stinky made sure he gave Allie a big hug before he had to leave for home.
After spending some time sharing whisker kisses, paw pats and headbonks, it was time for Stinky to go. With tears in their eyes, they waved goodbye and both said they couldn't wait for next week.
