Welcome Home!

It was another busy morning in the kitchen of Pippa Henry-Lloyd. Mondays were bake day! All the delicious treats that she sells in her shop was being prepared and new recipes were put to the test. After trading for a few months, Pippa realised that her delicatessen is usually very quiet on Mondays, maybe because everyone (re)starts their healthy eating habits at the beginning of a new week. So on Mondays the shop is closed.

Just as she was about to put the last tray of treats in the oven, Pippa heard a knock on door. She looked at the wall clock, who can it be she wondered and looked out the window trying to see who the untimely visitor could be. She was very dirty,covered with flour and icing, almost from head to toe.

When the unknown visitor knocked for a third time, Pippa went to the door and opened it with a sigh, hoping it is not someone too important. Maybe it was just someone selling something.

She couldn't believe her eyes when she opened the door. It was her niece (also foster sister) Dorothy Patches.
Pippa (exclaiming): Dorothy! What on earthy are you doing here, I wasn't expecting you for at-least another two weeks. Come in come in! How are you?

Dorothy: Hey Sis. I assume you didn't get my letter then. I'm so tired of France and their inefficiency. Sorry to show up unannounced at your door then.
Pippa: No no no, don't worry. I'm just really surprised, but in a good way. Come in, you must be exhausted!

Dorothy: I would just like to see Kyle, I can rest later. I'm so glad to just be with him again, my poor poor baby.
Pippa: They are at daycare, I usually take him and the twins there in the mornings, just so that they can interact a little with some other babies. Delia is real good with them. I'm fetching them at around noon again.
Dorothy: Oh that is a pity, but I understand. Thanks so much for everything you've done for him, how can I ever repay you.
Pippa: Don't worry about that, he was no hassle at all, and he is such a sweet boy. Lets clear the table and have some tea. I have freshly baked scones too.

While Pippa cleared the table, Dorothy got the cups and the teapot.
Dorothy: So you say Kyle was a good boy? Any illnesses I should know about?
Pippa: Oh D he was so good and terribly cute, I never had any trouble with him, but he did miss you alot. Sometimes he will sit and play and then just start to cry, but luckily not inconsolably.
Dorothy: Poor baby, I still can't believe I did this to him and to myself too, but we did survive. And I'll never leave him again.

Pippa: You were very brave to leave him, but we took good care of him. It will be hard to let him go again. He feels like my own now and I think that sometimes Sarah loves him more than the twins.
Dorothy: Well, maybe we will be around, so you can still see him and I will be grateful if Sarah would want to babysit sometimes.
Pippa: So you are still planning on moving to Sugarbush Valley and to open the hairdresser? That will be wonderful and Sarah will be so happy.

Finally the tea was ready and Pippa could sit down too.
Dorothy: Yes we are definitely moving here, I'm going to start looking for a house tomorrow, but today I'm taking a break. I'm just not sure when Antonio will be joining me.
Pippa: What do you mean? What is going on D, I can sense something is not right?
Dorothy: Oh Pippa, it was an absolute nightmare. Firstly we were done in by the representative that booked the package deal for us. When we arrived in Paris, we had to find out that the whole thing was a scam! There was no representative, no accommodation organised, no hairdressing course booked and obviously we had no money. We were lucky to convince a manager at one of the hotels to let us stay in advance and pay for the room on a daily basis. It helped that Antonio could speak french. Obviously we had to look for work immediately. Again he got lucky at a barber shop, but the wage was minimal and barely covered our accommodation.

After a few days I managed to get work as a lunch lady at a private school. They pay was really good and the job was easy and not to tiresome. Before and after work I search the whole city for a place to do a hairdressing course. After two weeks I finally found what I was looking for. By then we have saved up enough money to attend the one month course they offered. We completed the course and both got apprenticeships easily.

I worked for a wonderful flamboyant woman who taught me alot, but poor Antonio wasn't so lucky. When the apprenticeship month was up and it was time to leave, his boss refused to let him leave or pay him. I couldn't take it anymore, my heart was aching for Kyle and everything was becoming too much for me. Hard as it was for him, Antonio begged me to go home and don't worry about him. So here I am. It still feels like I'm dreaming and I'm really worried about my husband!

Pippa was quietly listening to Dorothy's story, she couldn't believe what she was hearing. Her heart went out to this woman, who has already went through so much in her young life. Pippa got up and went to give her a hug.
Pippa: Don't worry D, I'm sure everything will work out eventually. Let's try to stay positive.
Dorothy: I've been positive for so long , I don't know if I'm able to stay positive for much longer.
Pippa: We will work something out with the accommodation and people will always need haircuts. I think you need some rest before you see Kyle. It is almost time for me to go and fetch them.
Dorothy: Thanks Pippa, I knew you will be there for me.

Pippa: Lets go upstairs, so that you can take a nap.
Dorothy: I guess that is a good idea, but first I have something for you.
Pippa: What is it?

Dorothy: You know the new french brand, Croûte, you love so much?
Pippa: No! Don't tell me...! That is just too much, those things are unaffordable!
Dorothy: Nonsense, and by the way they are really cheap in Paris. Here you go, I knew you've wanted this since the day it was launched!
Pippa: Oh wow, I can't believe you got me the pink strawberry toaster, I've wanted this for so long, I'm actually saving for it in secret. Dorothy, thank you so much.
Dorothy: It is a great pleasure and just a small token of my appreciation for looking after Kyle. And here is just a small jar of that Strawberry jam that has made the headlines recently.
Pippa: You have really spoiled me, thank you, thank you, thank you!

The two sisters went upstairs. Pippa showed Dorothy where to put her bag and to make her comfortable in Sarah's bed.
Pippa: I'm going out now. See you when you wake up.
Dorothy: Thanks for everything, Sis.

Dorothy fell asleep almost immediately. Pippa was relieved as she knew that Dorothy needed the rest. Her mind was already working overtime how to help her sister. She had an idea, but she'll first have to discuss it with Ben. That will, however, have to wait till later.

Pippa quickly did the dishes and cleaned the kitchen. Time have snuck up on her so she rushed out of the house, taking one last quick glance at her new toaster, she was already a bit late.

Pippa arrived just in time, many kids was leaving already, luckily Delia is one of her best friends and will never leave the babies. Zac and Sarah was saying good bye to their friends too.
Delia: Hi Pippa, I was just beginning to worry. Although only a minute, you are never late. Everything ok?
Pippa: Yes, I guess. Dorothy arrived this morning. Unannounced, so that took me by surprise, but I'm so glad that she is finally home. They are thinking of staying in Sugarbush Valley.
Delia: Oh really! Kyle will be glad to see his mother. Is Antonio with her?
Pippa: And she will be glad to see him. No he isn't, long story, but he will soon be. Delia, I have to run, so sorry I can't stay for a chat. See you tomorrow!
Delia: Of course, see you tomorrow.

When Pippa and the kids arrived home, Pippa quickly prepared the babies' bottles and sliced some of the fresh bread for Zac and Sarah.
Sarah: Mommy, is it true that Auntie D is here? I've overheard you speaking to Mrs Chiffon.
Pippa: Yes dear, she is here, she is actully taking a nap in your bed. Hope you don't mind. I'm sure she will be up soon.
Sarah: No I don't mind. I can't wait till she wakes up, I'm sure she has lovely stories to tell.
Pippa: I'm sure she does, do ask her when she wakes up.

Zac: Oh mom, freshly baked bread, my favorite. Thanks! Can I have another slice?
Pippa: It is my pleasure, Zac and of course you can have some more.

After a short but revitalising nap, Dorothy was awaken by the voices downstairs, she quickly got up and ran downstairs. She was very eager to see her beautiful baby boy after so many months!

Pippa: Dorothy, you are up! There is Kyle, sitting on the floor.
Dorothy: Oh my beautiful boy, come to mommy. You are such a cute beautiful little baby boy!
Kyle: ma ma ma ma
Dorothy: That is my clever boy, yes mommy.
Sarah: Auntie D, I'm so glad to see you. Will you be staying long?
Pippa: Sarah, Auntie D will stay as long as she needs to. Have your lunch and then you can have a nice long chat with her. Mommy quickly has to go to daddy, but I will be back soon. Is that ok Dorothy?
Dorothy (still fiercely hugging and kissing Kyle): Yes of course, I guess the babies need to go to bed, I'll give them there milk. And Sarah, yes I'm staying.
Pippa: Wendy can hold her own bottle but Tom is a bit lazy, so just keep an eye on him. I guess you will want to hold Kyle while feeding him. Ok, I'm off then. See you later.

Pippa quickly left. Dorothy was more than happy to stay with the kids. Sometimes she wondered if she shouldn't have rather studied for a kindergarten teacher, like her best friend Delia. Speaking of Delia, she will have to go and say hi soon. Maybe tomorrow, she just want to clear her head first.

It was days like these that Pippa was glad that they lived in the center of the Village and close to everything. Ben's fishmonger was literally only a short walk away from their house. She found him and Elmar Mulberry fixing the plumbing of the shop.
Pippa: Hi Ben, hello Elmar. Hard at work?
Ben: Hello Pumpkin, this is a surprise. Yes, Elmar is fixing the plumbing. I'm starting to regret buying this shop, it is literally falling apart.
Elmar: Hi Pippa, don't listen to Ben he is exaggerating. I'll have it fixed in no time.
Pippa (giggling): Don't worry Elmar, I'm used to Ben's dramas. Ben can I quickly discuss something with you?
Ben: Sure Pumpkin, what is the matter.

Pippa: It is nothing serious, but it is a decision we need to make together.
Ben: Now you have me worried.
Pippa: Dorothy is here, she showed up at around 10:00. The poor woman is in state.

Pippa quickly relayed the whole story to Ben.

Ben: Oh dear, that is terrible. Glad that she is here now, we will look after her. Did you offer that she can stay as long as she wants to?
Pippa: I was thinking about it, but didn't want to without talking to you first. So you are alright with her staying?

Ben: Of course I am, you know I adore your sister and even Antonio is not too bad. So until they have sorted things out she can stay with us and when Antonio shows up our house will be open to him too.

Pippa: I'm glad that you are so open minded and kindhearted, but I was wondering... May I offer her the attic bedroom?

Ben: You mean our bedroom?

Pippa: Yes. I was thinking that maybe we can move the kids all into one room, we take either the nursery or the kids room and then they can have some privacy of their own. Dorothy will be more than happy to pay rent. I just don't want to put her out on the street, and with the scarcity of housing in this village I would rather make it permanent now, then to do it in a month's time.

Ben: I guess you have a point. I'm fine with the idea, and I'm sure you have already sorted everything out in your head. With regards to the rent paying. I think that is unnecessary for now. We can review that when Antonio arrives and when they have jobs. For now she will be a guest in our home.

Pippa: Oh Ben, thank you so much. Thank you for understanding. We can inform her of the great news tonight after dinner.

Ben: We are so blessed with everything we want and need, it just makes sense to help family in need!

Pippa: You are so wise, my old husband. I have to go home then, Dorothy is alone with the 5 children and I'm sure Zac and Sarah is laden with homework. See you later.

Ben: Bye Pumpkin, see you later.

Elmar: See you again Pippa.

Pippa: Bye Elmar, give my best to Mae, I'm in a bit of a hurry I will stop for a chat later in the week.

On arrival at Cedar Terrace, Pippa was relieved to see that Dorothy was doing the dishes and that the kids were busy doing their homework.

Pippa: Dorothy, you are such an angel for cleaning up and doing the dishes. Thank you.

Dorothy: No problem, I must repay my accommodation in some way, as I have no money.

Pippa: Nonsense! Did the babies go to bed easily for their nap. Kyle and Tom passed out quickly, but Wendy just didn't want to close her eyes. I think she wasn't totally comfortable with me.

Pippa: Don't worry, she does that with me too. So glad they are taking a nap, it just makes the rest of the day a bit easier. And these two how did you get them to start on their homework.

Dorothy: Oh no that wasn't me, they started on their own.

Pippa thanked her older children for being so good and promised them a treat when they have finished their homework.

Later that evening when the kids were in bed, dinner was finished and all chores was done the adults sat down to have a talk about the living arrangements. 

Pippa: Dorothy, Ben and I had a chat this afternoon and we would like to offer the attic bedroom to you and Kyle, and Antonio of course when he arrives. If you so wish it can be a permanent arrangement until the three of you find something more suitable.

Dorothy (jumping out of her chair): Really? Are you serious? But I have no money to rent a room from you, how will I ever repay you?

Pippa: No one said anything about paying rent. For now you will be a guest in our house. I do, however, expect you to help me in the delicatessen and with the children, things can get quite hectic, especially in the afternoons when the older children have to do their homework and have extra mural commitments.

Dorothy: Of course of course, but I was planning on starting to look for a suitable space to start our hair-saloon and maybe I can start to do haircuts at people's homes. I really don't want to stay for free.

Pippa: That is a great idea, I'm sure some of the female villagers would love to have someone attend to their needs in the privacy of their own homes.

Dorothy (hugging Pippa): Thank you once more for opening your hearts and house to me and little Kyle. I'm writing to Antonio tonight. He will appreciate it too, now he doesn't have to worry about us anymore.

Pippa: It is our pleasure. We will work everything out and this weekend we will move everything around, and get you and Kyle settled in your own room.

Just a quick thanks form me to Lisa Luna who sent me Dorothy, and a mommy for Kyle. And a special thanks to Jane Cherié for the rement gift that incluede the toaster and the jam. Without you guys this story wouldn't have been possible and boring.

Early Christmas, receiving some parcels!

This is not a regular/normal Sugarbush Valley story, but this was so great and turned a normal boring day in something extraordinary that I just had to share it on my blog.

Enjoy opening the box with me and keep watching the blog for the introduction of each new family.

Then I opened it and ... (gasp)

Goodness me, what can be inside

First of all the Mcburrows mole family in excellent condition. I was surprised by how small the brother and sister was compared to the other children. So so so cute. Even the parents are waaay smaller than the other families. Then I was wondering if the Clearwater voles are so small too? Unsure how old Muddy and Molly will be because of their smallness. Thinking of making the Mcburrows the vegetable farmers of the Village.

Next was the Thistlethorns, also in good condition, except that Chester had no clothes but that will soon be sorted. And not sure if Willow is wearing the correct clothes. They have flat hands and I was surprised that their tails was plasticky, not flocked like the Fieldings and Maces tails. They will probably own the news stand in the village or Chester might start a newspaper.

Next was the skunk siblings and OH MY WORD, how cute are they! They have a permanent smile and oh those tails are so soft. Now to get mom and dad! They will definitely live in a Meadowcroft Cottage and will run the Harvester Restaurant someday.

The Hazelnuts popped out next. Again in immaculate condition and I immediately loved loved loved them, totally cute. I was surprised to see the black tipped tails, very thoughtful and suits them perfectly. I also really like Mona's dress, a bit different from the normal floral dress with white apron. Still unsure how they will fit into the valley. The biggest question is will they do something fun like own the toy wagon or will Sydney maybe be the accountant/architect of the village.

One of my all time favorite families was taken out next. I just love the Honeybears and for a secondhand family again they were in pristine condition. Im so glad I won the baby form the nursery set a week ago on ebay so he/she will soon be joining the family too. The Honeybears will run the watermill bakery and Katy will be the best friend of Nellie Trunk. I was surprised at how similar their dresses are!

The family that took me mostly by surprise was the Huckleberry Hound Dogs. They are so so stunning and the promo pictures dont do them justice at all. Have been expecting them for a while so their bio is sort of sorted out. Hubert Allan will teach the senior class at school in the small JP school building Ive won a while back from Hayley and mother Hatty will be the school inspector for the whole region (i.e Sugarbush valley, Blueberry Hill and Eaglewood). She is also the "busy body" of the village and as her name suggest the "ruler" of the village. Mayor Hugo sometimes think he has no business in Sugarbush. But although nosy, Hatty is loved by everyone.

Then finally, although not necessarily my favorite family, but definitely a very proud addition to my collection the Puddlefords. Again in great great condition for a secondhand family. And also totally cute! Not completely sure what they will do, but time will tell.

Then a few surprises

The Meadows twins

And some bits and pieces I could use in my shops and houses

So that was the one parcel and as if that wasnt enough, I also got the package with the school staff set with:

Maurice Chantilly as the Lollipop man. Maurice will keep this job and will soon be joined by his wife Miriam and two children Jocelyn and Jacques, who is only 11 months apart.

and Dororthy Patches as the lunch lady. Dorothy will soon be opening a hairdresser business with her husband in Sugarbush valley.

And although Im planning a full reunion story soon, I just couldnt resist a picture of baby Kyle with his mother.

I hoped you enjoy this unpacking as much as I did and thanks to my lovely friends from the forum who made these trades possible.

The Awesome-Twosome

It is the summer school holiday and the kids of Sugarbush Valley are enjoying the break. Everyday is spent at a friend’s house or somewhere outdoors. The days are filled with fun and games. Rebecca Periwinkle is only one of the lucky girls to enjoy these fun filled days with her friends.

Rebecca lives in Cedar Terrace 2 with her family. Father Alex and Mother Rebecca owns the shoe shop in the village, which is known for the outstanding quality shoes that is sold there. 

Rebecca also has an older brother Oliver, who she adores. Although not often seen together in the village, they have a tight bond and share a lot of secrets.

Rebecca’s favorite thing in the world is shoes, as she grew up surrounded by shoes, it is somewhat understandable, but unlike any other 11 year old 3 pairs of shoes is not enough for Rebecca. She needs a pair that fits every dress in her closet perfectly. It is her dream to become a famous shoe designer one day. So it goes without saying that helping out in her parents shop on Saturday mornings or during school breaks is her favorite past time.

Like all 11 year old girls Rebecca has a best friend, who is Nichole Maces. They are inseparable and during school breaks they spend most of their days together. They are often referred to by fellow classmates and the villagers as the awesome-twosome and if not seen together, they always have to explain where their better half is.

Except for being best friends they belong to a bigger group of friends that includes all the girls in Sugarbush Valley. Everyone from 8-year old Nellie to 14-year old Candy is part of Rebecca’s group of friends and she can have as much fun with either one.

Today is just one of the many special days in Sugarbush Valley. Not only is it school holiday, but it is also the birthday of Annabel Buttercup and all the girls have been invited to the party.

Rebecca is very excited about the party and will be wearing her prettiest dress and new ballet pumps. However, the party is not until much later in the afternoon and she has a fun-filled morning planned with Nichole.

Both Rebecca and Nichole loves horses, but owning one is not really an option so they love to visit the Blackberry’s market site. This morning, their day starts here.

Rebecca: Hi Ingrid, we are here to help you groom Blacksocks!

Ingrid: Hello awesome twosome, glad you could make it. I told Blacksocks all about your visit and he is quite excited. He just loves all the attention.

Nichole: Well, we love giving him all this attention, he is such a sweet and fabulous horse.

Rebecca: So where do we start and what needs to be done?

Ingrid: Fist we have to brush his whole body with this brush. After that we comb his main and tail. He likes it when his body and main are attended to, but can get quite agitated when someone is fiddling to much with his tail. I was thinking that I will handle the hind-legs and tail and then you two can decide who does the body brushing and main combing?

Nichole: I would prefer to brush his main as I'm sure the short body hair will make me sneeze, is that ok with you Becs?

Rebecca: Oooh of course, I would love to brush his body.

The girls worked really hard for an hour and afterwards Blacksocks got rewarded with water and carrots for his good behaviour.

 Mother Betty rewarded the girls with fresh smoothies and her famous carrot cupcakes.

Rebecca: Thanks Mrs Blackberry for the lovely refreshments. We must be off. We still have lots to do before Annabell's party. We will see you there Ingrid?

Ingrid: Oh yes off course, I'm not missing that. I've heard rumours of an ice cream party.
Nichole: Me too! 
Rebecca: That should be fun. Bye then, see you later Ingrid.

The girls made there way to the Maces cottage, which was situated on top of their shop, the Sylvanian Market. As they reached the top of the stairs Mother Arvey was already waiting for them.

Mother Arvey: There you are, I was just beginning to worry that you have forgotten.
Nichole: Never mommy, I know that you have to go out for some groceries, and I did promise.
Rebecca: Morning Auntie Arvey (Mother Arvey insisted that Rebecca calls her Auntie, as she feels it is just to formal that her daughter's best friend addresses her as Mrs). If you don't mind I've offered to help Nichole babysit.
Mother Arvey: Oh no not at all, that is kind of you. Ok girls I'm off. I've left snacks and cake for you on the table. JC will also want a snack soon, there is some yogurt for him. I'll be about an hour.
Nichole: We will be fine, mommy. And remember the milk.

Mother Arvey left and the girls were alone with little JC. Rebecca adored the little boy and always loved spending time with him. She wouldn't mind a baby brother or sister herself. They entertained JC for quite a while first by playing with his educational learning house and then reading him a story.

They began too feel peckish and went upstairs to have a snack. Rebecca was astonished by the amount of snacks for just the two of them, but she knew that Auntie Arvey likes treating them.

In what felt like a minute, Mother Arvey was back from her grocery shopping.
Mother Arvey: Hey girls, everything ok?
Nichole: Sure mommy and you know that JC is a little angel.
Rebecca: Oh and thanks for all that lovely snacks, Auntie Arvey.

Mother Arvey: Glad you liked it Rebecca, and that all went well. I think for you hard work you deserve a little something, here are 5 Kaolin (Sugarbush Valley money) each.
Nichole: Oh thanks mommy!
Rebecca: Oh that is too generous and not at all necessary, but thank you so much Anutie Arvey, now I can buy a gift for Annabell.
Nichole: Oh that is a great idea, if we put it together we can buy her something bigger. Lets go and see what my dad have in the toy department.
Rebecca: Great thinking Nix. Lets go.
Nichole: See you later mommy, bye my adorable little brother.
Rebecca: Bye Auntie Arvey and thanks again.
Mother Arvey: Bye girls.

The awesome twosome rushed downstairs to the toy department. They had a hard time deciding on something, but eventually settled on a small squirrel doll.

Nichole: Hi daddy, we want to buy this doll for Annabell's birthday.
Father Spencer: That is generous of you, but you know that you don't have to buy it, I'll give it to you.
Rebecca: Oh no Uncle Spencer we want to buy it, we earned the money by looking after baby JC and would like to spend it well.
Father Spencer: Ok, so who am I to disagree with that.
Nichole (laughing): Good!

Father Spencer(did secretly give them some discount on the doll. He was real proud of these two): there you go girls. Enjoy the party and hope Annabell likes her gift.
Just as they were about to leave Mother Arvey came in through the door.
Mother Arvey: Oh good you are still here, Nichole I forgot to pick up our weekly doughnut order, will you stop by Pippa's Delicatessen and get it for me.
Nichole: Sure mommy, but first we are off to the Periwinkle's shoe shop. Rebecca has to help in the shop for a while and I'm going with. Is it ok if I deliver it before I go to the party.
Mother Arvey: Yes that is fine, thanks dear.

The girls left the Market and made their way to the Periwinkle shoe shop. Rebecca loved working there and often would beg her parents to let her help them. Today they will assist her father with sales as her mother had to take Oliver to the dentist in Blueberry Hill.
Rebecca: Hi daddy, we are here to help you.

Father Alex: Hi Sweetpea and Nichole, I'm so glad you are here. We have been busy this morning and I have to finish a pair of shoes and look at the books. I'll be in the back. Call me if you need help.
Rebecca: Ok we will be fine. Father Alex disappeared through the back office door.

The girls first took a good look at all the fabulous shoes in the store. Then Rebecca suggested that they try some of it on.
Nichole: I would love that, but are you sure we may?
Rebecca: As long as we are careful, it is not a problem and you are a paying customer, aren't you?

Nichole put on the shoes and posed with it, she loved the shoes and it looked great with her dress. Rebecca also tried it on.
Rebecca: So what do you think? It is lovely?
Nichole: Ooh I love them, I'm telling mommy I want them for my birthday.

As they were about to put away the pair of shoes, Mother Delia and Karen came into the shop.
Rebecca: Morning Mrs Chiffon. How are you this morning.
Mother Delia: Hi Rebecca and Nichole, we are fine. How are you? Is your mom or dad here, I'm looking for a pair of new shoes for Karen?
Rebecca: I'm just fine. My mom took Oliver to the dentist in Blueberry Hill and my dad is busy doing the books in the back office, but if you don't mind I can show you what we have on offer. I think I have just the perfect pair of shoes for Karen.

Mother Delia: That is no problem, show us the shoes that you have in mind, but we will have a look what else is in stock too.
Rebecca: It is this pair of red shoes, it will fit perfectly with her dress.
Karen: Ooh I do love them, can I try it on mommy?

Mother Delia agreed that is just the pair of shoes they were looking for and Karen confirmed that they fit perfectly. Rebecca also convinced Mother Delia to try on a pair of bright orange shoes, which was a perfect fit too.

Mother Delia: I will take the pair of orange shoes too, Rebecca. You sure are a great sales lady.
Rebecca: Thank you Mrs Chiffon, I love working in my parents shop.
Mother Delia: Take care and I guess we will see you at the party this afternoon?
Rebecca: Yes we will be there, and Karen wear you new shoes, they look fantastic.
Karen: Thanks Rebecca, I love them. See you later.

Just as the Chiffons disappeared through the shop door, Father Alex came in from the back.
Father Alex: So I am done with the books, thanks for managing the shop you two.
Rebecca: It is a pleasure daddy, you know I love working here. We managed to sell two pair of shoes.
Father Alex: Two pairs! Wow that is a job well done. Thank you so much.

Nichole: It was all Rebecca Uncle Alex, you should have seen her. Mrs Chiffon didn't know how to say no.
Father Alex (laughing): Delia is usually a soft target and one of my best customers. Thanks again girls.
Rebecca: Daddy we are leaving now, we must go and get ready for the party.

Alex: Yes that is fine. Oh and Rebecca remember to pick up the flowers for the shop on your way home. Enjoy it. Bye!
Rebecca and Nichole: I will daddy. Bye

The girls left the shop.
Nichole: I think I must quickly go and pick up the doughnuts for mommy, before I go home.
Rebecca: I will walk with you. Then on our way home we can stop at the florist.
Nichole: Great idea. Well here we are.

Mother Savannah and Nellie Trunk was just placing an order when the girls arrive.
Rebecca: Hi Mrs Henry-Lloyd. Hi Mrs Trunk. Great to see you Nellie and Sarah.
All together: Hello awesome twosome.
Nichole: Hi everyone!
They had a quick chat before the Trunks left.
Nellie: Bye everyone, see you at the party.
Rebecca: Bye Nellie.
Nichole: See you later.

Mother Pippa: Nichole, have you come to collect your mother's doughnut order?
Nichole: Yes Mrs Henry-Lloyd.
Mother Pippa: I saw her rushing past earlier, but before I could stop her she was gone. She can really move very fast if she wants to?

Sarah: So are you and Nichole also attending Annabell's party this afternoon?
Rebecca: Yes, I will not miss it for the world.
Sarah: I hear it is going to be an ice cream party?
Rebecca: I've heard that too, it is going to be delicious.
Sarah: I really hope Annabell didn't invite the boys, they will just make a mess of everything.
Rebecca (giggling): I think you have a point, we will see.

Nichole collected the doughnuts, the girls said their goodbyes and off they went.

Next stop was the Florist, but as they went passed the laundromat they noticed that the Mulberries are hard at work. They stopped to have a quick chat with Candy.

Rebecca: Hi Candy. What are you guys doing?
Candy: Hi Rebecca and Nichole. Ike and me are helping our parents to get the shop renovated. My mom was getting tired of her old wallpaper.
Nichole: Ooh I love the new wallpaper it sure does look fresh and clean.
Candy: I like it too.
Rebecca: I guess we will see you at the party?
Candy: Of course I'm not missing that, I hope that adorable Cheddar is there!
Nichole: I'm sure he will be. See you later
Candy: Bye guys.

At the Florist Mrs Fisher and her daughter was just saying there goodbyes. The Fishers are the newest family in the village and already very popular. Lauren is very good in sports and also very competitive.
Rebecca: Oh hi Amelia and Lauren.
Amelia and Lauren: Hi awesome twosome!
Nichole: Lauren are you looking forward to the start of the term.
Lauren: Yes very much, I'm just glad I met most of the girls already, so that it is not totally new.

Rebecca: We should try to play another game of tennis soon. I think the trails for the first team will be on the first day. We usually face one of the schools in Blueberry Hill the first weekend after the start of term.
Lauren: We should, I really enjoyed playing against you Rebecca. You are really good, I only managed to just beat you.
Rebecca: I'm lucky to have Oliver as my practice partner, he is really really good and wants to win Wimbledon one day.
Lauren: Maybe we must arrange a double's match too. Linus is not too bad either.
Rebecca: That sounds like fun. We have to go and get ready for the party. See you there?
Amelia: Yes definitely. Lauren will be coming with me.
Mother Isabel and Lauren left and Rebecca quickly went into the store to get some flowers for the shoe shop. Leaving Amelia and Nichole to chat some more.

Mother Katrina: Hi Rebecca., I guess you are collecting the monthly flowers for the shoe shop.
Rebecca: Yes please Mrs Whiskers. My mother was really impressed with how long the other bunch of flowers lasted.

Mother Katrina: Well only the best for my clients. Why don't you try a potted plant, as you can see all is in bloom?
Rebecca: I think that is the great idea, I love the pansies.
Mother Katrina: Good choice. The only started blooming yesterday.
Rebecca: My mother will love them. Thank you Mrs Whiskers.

Finally the awesome twosome was finished with their chores for the day. They said their goodbyes at the corner of the street and went there separate ways. They will meet up later to go to Annabell's birthday party together.

To be continued... (Annabell's party to follow)