Castellum Cleppus

The wind has once again taken us to new places. This time, we abide in the Castellum Cleppus, and indeed it is quite lofty up here. The other night, when Desmond was paying us a visit, we were fearful that our floor would be lifted right off its scary heights. But, as you can see, we are still here and even the roof remained intact.

Otis in fact is very smitten with our latest tenant; Wilhelmina. She is a quiet sort, keeps to herself (mainly hides out in the cupboard with the other mugs), and is very content. So far, we have not heard her complaining about anything. Whereas Otis and I, on the other hand, cannot quit complaining. Up until now, it has been far too cold in this land that resembles Arandelle so much. Today, it was like we were in the tropics. We both cannot abide temperature, and are thinking of starting a petition to abolish it.

Anyway, we have been doing our utmost best to make our home more homely Christmas, but we are sorry to say we will be doing the Christmas tree again tomorrow, as the baubles are not sitting right. Otis is mainly to blame for that, as he did a lot of it in his spare time whilst I was at work. There is no gallivanting around the place for him in this cold. He told me that on a recent journey to the highlands, one of his wings froze up completely, and it was only with the help of a kindly old eagle that was flying close by that he was able to land safely and stay the night in an empty tree. I wouldn't usually believe this silly old owl, but having had similar experiences myself, I can only be thankful that he is still here.

Changes All Round

As this crazy world does it's many many turns each year, and people come and people go, Otis and I have been very blessed to be a part of this incredible adventure that is life. True, it's easier said in the warmth of a hazy summer's day (yes, even we in Scotland get a summer day) than whilst trying to find some comfort in a thick woollen blanket and a hot mug of cocoa as the frost creeps in from outside. And, let's be honest, the wine is a positive contributor as well.

But even without such luxuries, it is true that as of late, Otis has found his peace (and not of the sad kind) in the rafters of our new home, Castle Manor Rabidus. It's quiet here out in the country, and I'm guessing that the increased amount of mice in his diet makes a nice change from the soap I discovered he was eating (I snuck up on him one midnight, with his beak foaming and the flustered bird stuttering something about midnight snack, one off, crazy person for waking up. I hid the soap behind the TV and he's not had any since. Not from our stock anyway).

Apart from that, we also have a few additions to our expanding tribe (external, might I add). Mildred has been a loyal companion to Harold for the past months, who knows what they whisper to each other about when all they ever do is sit on the sofa and watch the world slip by them. They seem to like each other. A lot.
Then there is the Duchess of the Dawn, and her mighty guardian, Jessine of Beyond. A little tink she is, but faithful and full of joy.
We had to leave poor Sebastian behind in our lovely little flat. We insisted he come with us, join us in our new life not so far away, but he seemed a little grumpy at the prospect of having to face the roar of human world.

So the King of Scotland, Otis and I have once again been uprooted, but with new territory comes new adventure, so we shall raise a glass and toast you all (we're not gonna eat you, promise).