Ari, Essie and Maria packed their small bags and were on the road early next morning heading for a week to the yacht of Georgios and Delitha.

This was to be a week of fishing, relaxing and shopping. Essie was excited to do all these things.

When they arrived Georgios asked Essie if she would be upset if his attorney had looked into the whereabouts of her cousins that abandoned her.

She said no because even though they had been to uncaring she hoped they were safe.

“Well they are alive and they do feel remorse for what they did and when they get out of the slammer (their words) they will contact you through the attorney.”

“Jail? They are in jail? Why? What happened?”

“My attorney said it was for disorderly, drunken conduct and stealing a car.”

“Stealing a car? Those crazy nuts don't even know how to drive a car. They drive smaller motorcycles, bicycles and scooters. I was their driver on this trip. The night I met all of you I had not rented a car and they just left me out there in the rain all alone.”

“Well my attorney at least told them you were safe but never divulged your whereabouts for your privacy.”

“All I can say is good luck to them, glad they are safe and happy they abandoned me.”

“Why?” asked Maria

“Because I never would have met all of you, have stability in my life and have a whole new happy life with good friends.” replied Essie.

Ari went out on the terrace with tears rolling down his cheeks.

He came back inside and took Essie into his arms and they both stood there and hugged.

Georgios, Delitha and Maria backed away and went into the kitchen where Georgios pretended to show Maria the new kitchen.

“Whew I didn't know cousin was this deep into caring about Essie. I am so happy for them. I also hope they will venture on to the next level.”

“Dear cousin your wife and I knew it right away. Woman's intuition.” said Maria.

Ari popped into the kitchen saying they were going to go for a little walk and hoped there would be food when they returned.

Essie and Ari walked about six miles in total mostly along the beach sometimes in the water. They talked abut each other's childhood and adulthood. Fun things and sad things. On the way back they agreeded that they did care abot each other very much but also agreeded not to jump into a relationship that might not work out. Returning to the other three they told them we have decided to get to know each other and see how the progress goes from there.

“Does this men you are going to give Essie a friendship ring?” asked Maria.

Essie lifted her hand and said :”You mean like this one?”

“I knew it already. Mrs Papadopoulos told me you asked her advice a few weeks ago. She said she gave you Mama's friendship ring and told you it was now or never.”

“And you kept this secret?” asked a surprised Ari.

“Well I sort of said something to Nicky.”

“Maria don't you want your Mama's ring?” asked Essie.

“Nope I have all Mama's jewelry that I ever wanted. Ari and I put the rest in the safe in the food pantry. We did not want to sell it and Mrs Papadopoulos only accepted that gold bracelet she wears all the time. I am so happy to see my most favorite two cautious people so happy.

I feel pretty

Oh, so pretty

I feel pretty, and witty, and bright

And I pity

Any girl who isn't me tonight

Ari started singing a favorite from Westside Story with Maria,Georgios, Delitha helping him out:

I feel charming

Oh, so charming

It's alarming how charming I feel

And so pretty

That I hardly can believe I'm real

See the pretty girl in that mirror there?

Who can that attractive girl be?

Such a pretty face

Such a pretty dress

Such a pretty smile

Such a pretty me!

I feel stunning

And entrancing

Feel like running and dancing for joy

For I'm loved

By a pretty wonderful boy!

Have you met my good friend, Maria?

The craziest girl on the block

You'll know her the minute you see her

She's the one who is in an advanced

State of shock

She thinks she's in love

She thinks she's in Spain

She isn't in love

She's merely insane

It must be the heat

Or some rare disease

Or too much to eat

Or maybe it's fleas

Keep away from her

Send for Chino!

This is not the Maria we know!

Modest and pure

Polite and refined

Well-bred and mature

And out of her mind!

Miss America, a speech, a speech, que hable

I feel pretty

Oh, so pretty

That the city should give me its key

A committee

Should be organized to honor me

I feel dizzy

I feel sunny

I feel fizzy, and funny, and fine

And so pretty

Miss America can just resign!

See the pretty girl in that mirror there

What mirror, where?

Who can that attractive girl be?

Which? What? Where? Whom?

Such a pretty face

Such a pretty dress

Such a pretty smile

Such a pretty me!

Such a pretty me!

Such a pretty me!

I feel stunning (I feel stunning)

And entrancing (and entrancing)

Feel like running and dancing for joy

For I'm loved

By a pretty wonderful boy!

Songwritersare : Stephen Sondheim and Leonard Bernstein

© Julia A Knaake

Adventurous Spirit 23

Ari, Essie and Maria packed their small bags and were on the road early next morning heading for a week to the yacht of Georgios and Delitha.

This was to be a week of fishing, relaxing and shopping. Essie was excited to do all these things.

When they arrived Georgios asked Essie if she would be upset if his attorney had looked into the whereabouts of her cousins that abandoned her.

She said no because even though they had been to uncaring she hoped they were safe.

“Well they are alive and they do feel remorse for what they did and when they get out of the slammer (their words) they will contact you through the attorney.”

“Jail? They are in jail? Why? What happened?”

“My attorney said it was for disorderly, drunken conduct and stealing a car.”

“Stealing a car? Those crazy nuts don't even know how to drive a car. They drive smaller motorcycles, bicycles and scooters. I was their driver on this trip. The night I met all of you I had not rented a car and they just left me out there in the rain all alone.”

“Well my attorney at least told them you were safe but never divulged your whereabouts for your privacy.”

“All I can say is good luck to them, glad they are safe and happy they abandoned me.”

“Why?” asked Maria

“Because I never would have met all of you, have stability in my life and have a whole new happy life with good friends.” replied Essie.

Ari went out on the terrace with tears rolling down his cheeks.

He came back inside and took Essie into his arms and they both stood there and hugged.

Georgios, Delitha and Maria backed away and went into the kitchen where Georgios pretended to show Maria the new kitchen.

“Whew I didn't know cousin was this deep into caring about Essie. I am so happy for them. I also hope they will venture on to the next level.”

“Dear cousin your wife and I knew it right away. Woman's intuition.” said Maria.

Ari popped into the kitchen saying they were going to go for a little walk and hoped there would be food when they returned.

Essie and Ari walked about six miles in total mostly along the beach sometimes in the water. They talked abut each other's childhood and adulthood. Fun things and sad things. On the way back they agreeded that they did care abot each other very much but also agreeded not to jump into a relationship that might not work out. Returning to the other three they told them we have decided to get to know each other and see how the progress goes from there.

“Does this men you are going to give Essie a friendship ring?” asked Maria.

Essie lifted her hand and said :”You mean like this one?”

“I knew it already. Mrs Papadopoulos told me you asked her advice a few weeks ago. She said she gave you Mama's friendship ring and told you it was now or never.”

“And you kept this secret?” asked a surprised Ari.

“Well I sort of said something to Nicky.”

“Maria don't you want your Mama's ring?” asked Essie.

“Nope I have all Mama's jewelry that I ever wanted. Ari and I put the rest in the safe in the food pantry. We did not want to sell it and Mrs Papadopoulos only accepted that gold bracelet she wears all the time. I am so happy to see my most favorite two cautious people so happy.

I feel pretty

Oh, so pretty

I feel pretty, and witty, and bright

And I pity

Any girl who isn't me tonight

Ari started singing a favorite from Westside Story with Maria,Georgios, Delitha helping him out:

I feel charming

Oh, so charming

It's alarming how charming I feel

And so pretty

That I hardly can believe I'm real

See the pretty girl in that mirror there?

Who can that attractive girl be?

Such a pretty face

Such a pretty dress

Such a pretty smile

Such a pretty me!

I feel stunning

And entrancing

Feel like running and dancing for joy

For I'm loved

By a pretty wonderful boy!

Have you met my good friend, Maria?

The craziest girl on the block

You'll know her the minute you see her

She's the one who is in an advanced

State of shock

She thinks she's in love

She thinks she's in Spain

She isn't in love

She's merely insane

It must be the heat

Or some rare disease

Or too much to eat

Or maybe it's fleas

Keep away from her

Send for Chino!

This is not the Maria we know!

Modest and pure

Polite and refined

Well-bred and mature

And out of her mind!

Miss America, a speech, a speech, que hable

I feel pretty

Oh, so pretty

That the city should give me its key

A committee

Should be organized to honor me

I feel dizzy

I feel sunny

I feel fizzy, and funny, and fine

And so pretty

Miss America can just resign!

See the pretty girl in that mirror there

What mirror, where?

Who can that attractive girl be?

Which? What? Where? Whom?

Such a pretty face

Such a pretty dress

Such a pretty smile

Such a pretty me!

Such a pretty me!

Such a pretty me!

I feel stunning (I feel stunning)

And entrancing (and entrancing)

Feel like running and dancing for joy

For I'm loved

By a pretty wonderful boy!

Songwritersare : Stephen Sondheim and Leonard Bernstein

© Julia A Knaake

Thoughts 4

Not A Good Day

Woke up rested this beautiful morn

heard a noise down the hall

words I never heard in my life

It's not a good day

Coffee pot grounds spilled on the table

the cat had an accident on the floor

Spotty the dog ripped up a new shirt

It's not a good day

My burnt toast set off the alarm

bacon fatty and eggs not set

now the stove is a big mess

It's not a good day

Last vacuum bag is too full

lipstick in the washer ruined my sheets

lunch at the burger house was so dry

It's not a good day

Mowed the lawn and hands all worn

weed wacker chopped up a toy ball

this day is so crazy with so much strife

It's not a good day

I'd like to hire help if I were able

but this is the worst day and goes on more

then dang I lost my contacts in the dirt

It's not a good day

Maybe I should have never left the farm

or perhaps I should take off in a jet

to a place with more exotics leaving the rest

It's not a good day

Life is not always so full of bull

my wife smiles at everyone she meets

I'm a stay at home Dad...that's why!

You have a good day

© Julia A Knaake

Connecting

The feeling of your touch

when physically not there

brings great joy and pleasure

feeling forever connected

When time to say I love you

it is said by both in unison

it's a natural occurrence you see

feeling forever connected

united for a mutual cause

makes the quest smooth

and meaningfully bound

feeling forever connected

Little things may not be much

knowing that you really care

is more than a golden treasure

feeling forever connected

Pleasures sensing what you do

feelings for that special person

being in love is a choice to be

feeling forever connected

There are no hand written laws

it's only in your heart that does move

where joined feelings united abound

feeling forever connected

© Julia A Knaake

Sent a little smile today

You brightened my day

when I heard your cheerful

voice and I was so glad.

Sent a little smile today

Our conversations are

filled with brightness

and joyful merriment.

Sent a little smile today

At times silliness flies our way

other times thoughts are dual

and the connection is ironclad.

Sent a little smile today

Wishes upon a falling star

with never say neverness'

out love has been God-sent

Sent a little smile today...

© Julia A Knaake

333

three thirty three watch it and see

angel wings will be there for thee

glaring at first with blinding light

the body all tensed with fright

bound, twisted and turning inside

dripping sweat they are your guide

an instant of blinking made it weighty

the angels have brought you to safety

© Julia A Knaake

A REAL TOAD

Your leathery fat body

and your wart-like glands

are a real turn off to me.

back to the Tropics where you belong

Amphibian surely is a good name

given for you, it is oh so true,

as you are absolutely so full of bull.

back to the Tropics where you belong

Your wide stubby body with short

fat legs,warty and dry skin all over

your ugly self is too much to behold.

back to the Tropics where you belong

Your family, friends and everybody

else you have contact with are not fans

as your darkness is not pleasant to see.

back to the Tropics where you belong

With this attitude you play a game

most people learn to be sick of you

and lying bull is what you are so full.

back to the Tropics where you belong

If only your meanness you would abort

then life would be full of sweet clover

and together we could have grow old

back to the Tropics where you belong

© Julia A Knaake

Day Dreaming

I have noticed the tiny smoldering dent

in your chin quivers when you laugh

and when you smile your lips curl into

the most sensual and playful little grin

Oh my sweet, your spicy scent drives me wild

with raw wicked desire and my heart

skips a beat when I see you move slowly across the patio

Your pure white shirt open is an invitation of deep desire

The way you sip your coffee in the morning is so silken when you

sip the very last drop then look into your cup with enticing lust

for more to be there long after it is gone. I have such an insatiable

and unstoppable desire to jump up and fill your cup with estacy

You arouse the animal instinct in me

and I would wish to pounce upon you

to hunt for your quivering lips and savor their sweet taste

upon my own lips smoldering with desire

Whenever I dream of our skin pressing

hungrily into flesh my self-control erupts.

Oh how you delight and tempt me.

I've such an erotic crave for you that is overpowering.

Oh, no now I must hide my face in the morning news

I am smelling the strong pungent aroma of strong coffee

and warm croissants with spicy marmalade

my neighbor will soon be on his patio, to smile and nod hello

© Julia A Knaake

Thoughts 2

Spirits Embody

full of energy with a smile so bright

waiting for Laughing Eyes to appear

sitting on the winding river's ledge

Laughing Eyes is her man with love

there is no one else for her, nobody

melding joyously belonging together

absorbing all movements in sight

his footsteps she wants to hear

being ever careful of the edge

wishing freedom to fly like a dove

villagers feel their love; everybody

melding joyously belonging together

eyes are twinkling even in star light

hearing nosily moving says he's near

he's meandering, gets caught in a wedge

wishing on a star falling from above

dreamily hoping she's that somebody

melding joyously belonging together

Little Squirrel has such a fright

yearning to be close, to touch her

Laughing Eyes peers over a low hedge

there she is sitting, oh, my beloved

a long embrace making spirits embody

melding joyously belonging together

© Julia A Knaake

There Is A Turning Point

..Heaven opens with joy

....and the greatest love

....closing against hates

....with the twinging sad

turning negative positive

.....Angels enter victory

unto their own kingdom

Questions cheat in hell

devils enticing is wrong

turning negative positive

........Living the right life

...entering heavens gate

..will keep away the evil

....from a heartless soul

turning negative positive

©Julia A Knaake

Spring"  Cleaning

Must get rid of the dull clutter of boring and useless relationships

So you say So you do say

Allow yourself an opportunity

to say goodbye to the old you

saying hello to the new you

The new you The very new you

Enter Springtime with renewed enthusiasm make to space

for this new vibrant energy

Lose the baggage Lose the excess baggage

Must be right for a burst of life

and love all to be in order for

future opportunities

It is important It is very important

Must make space for new energy many things would be unfinished

Do not leave loose ends Do not leave any loose ends

Waiting to move on with enthusiasm reawaken the fascination with life

There must be patience There must be some patience

Excitement full of energy

with much creativity ideas for new ventures

New avenues will open up New avenues do open up

Dreams will come to focus In your very heart and soul

Freedom day will come Freedom day will finally come

© Julia A Knaake

Dandelion A Miracle Drug

Dandelions growing like a weed you say get out the poisons get out the spray

Dig it up stomp it out its a weed no weeds allowed in my lawn indeed

I hear its a miracle drug a mystery depending on your own body chemistry

Prevents or cures for some diseases acts as a tonic a gentle diuretic it pleases

To purify your blood and cleanse your system improve gastric-intestinal health pistons

No negative side effects to turn you blue and selectively act on only what ails you

Do as you please, keep or kill or say it is fine but I will continue to drink my dandelion wine

© Julia A Knaake

Rules of the game

Gentle persuasion of a caring one to another rules over

forced persecution and belittling

Wanting and showing interested to another rules over

demanding threats and hatred

stirring the inner core to one who cares for you rules over

the one who pushes love away

A gently drawing to one you you want to know rules over

anyone who has pushed all love away

Simply put these are the only rules of the game it is your choice

to lovingly care or not live the life of love

©Julia A Knaake

Peanut Butter

An all time favorite snack of all the small tykes

may be the jar of peanut butter sitting on the pantry shelf

It comes smooth and creamy also so chunky and crunchy

in the morning melting on toast dripping down the lips to the chin

It can be used in making satay sauce on chicken

and in baked goods too also with jelly it is oh too divine

with crackers it is my best snack

some foods I just turn away my back

peas and Lima beans  are my dislikes

sometimes I will eat them just for Mother

but I pick and stir on my plate like an elf

a peanut butter sandwich can be dreamy

with sweet jelly if am thinking a munch ~ ie on celery

and crackers is really my boast

because the taste is so fulfilling within

peanut butter is healthy to feed a big brood

along with a big glass of milk from the

"moo' doesn't really matter most brands

are fine  fares well in picnics and

even in the lunch sack oh so delicious

© Julia A Knaake

Inquiring Visitors

Twilight reined the sky

pale of blue gray pink

outside calm and cool

sensed a couple at the door

the bell may have rung

or even a soft knock

really do not remember

but there you both were

with smiles like sunshine

your skin almost translucent

your bodies lilith like slim

dressed in loose garments

We came to look at the house

She admired my wild freehand

bold wall mural painting

He without unduly criticizing

pointed out a big flaw

Sensing my thoughts

told me how to remedy

without cost to my meager pocket

You both almost floated

through the rooms, smiling

My aged dog lifted her head

from a nap then went back

to sleep with no fear of either

giving you house information

you both leave remembering

your names were not given

walking to the open door to ask

surprised you are both gone

no sign of a vehicle going down

the long drive it was almost

like you disappeared

You both ceased to be seen

Vanish from sight into thin air

© Julia A Knaake

A dream for real.

I received this thought in my mind at five thirty two am. I was in bed dreaming a vivid dream. One can not see the wind but the dreaming mind bends reality.

I remember I was somewhere out on flat land. The wind was blowing fiercely. I was clutching my mossy green windbreaker jacket. With one bold gust of wind my tan wide brimmed hat took off like a flying saucer into that wind. My hair was flying and whipping in the wind looking like it had been in an electrical outlet.

Yelling to someone "Hold me, hold me down." Not wanting to take off up into the air. Lost forever in the sky. Feeling strong arms pull me close holding me tight to them while whispering "You are safe I won't let you go."

I woke up with that wild hair laying in a pile of twisted pillows. My nightgown wrapped around the sheets like twisted seaweed in the ocean waters. I felt so warm and secure. That is a nice safe feeling...A vivid dream not too laughable nor enhanced with hallucinations.

© Julia a Knaake

Awakening

The heart was broken

A soul was stolen

breath was taken away

unknowing love was there

Stifling was introduced

to keep happiness away

hiding lust with awakening

unknowing love was there

then with gentle persuasion

without demanding control

the flower bud emerged

unknowing love was there

the flower awakened

brightly clearly all colors of the rainbow

emerged into brilliant radiance

unknowing love was there

always will be remembered

as the returning soul

the mending of a heart

unknowing love was there

©Julia A Knaake

You Give Me You

Wantin' to give you a big palace

Feelin' to give you a kingdom

Seein' you get as you desire

with unending love you give me

you give me you

you give me you

you give me you

The palace would be way too large

A kingdom is much too hard to rule

Simple happy feelings you give to me

with unending love you give me

you give me you

you give me you

you give me you

My wish is deepest of most kind

I'll protect you and always be there

Giving my heart as you give to me

with unending love you give me

you give me you

you give me you

you give me you

Our wishes have become true

You are my shining lights

making our lives so full

with unending love you give me

you give me you

you give me you

you give me you

© Julia a. Knaake

What hats do you wear

Some folks wear

a beret,

a baseball cap,

winter woo-lie,

a scarf

sometimes a straw hat

but …..

Some wear the Mom or Dad hat

which means you had better teach your

children how to grow up to be self

sufficient and upstanding adults.

this is a long tiring but rewarding job.

Then again some wear the doctor or nurse hat

which can be so wonderful to help save

peoples lives or correct a problem

they have. It is also sad when there

is nothing you can do to help.

Now being a teacher is quite a reward

when you can help shape a young person

with learning materials and your experiences

and lead them in the right direction

to get a good hold on their lives

.

There are police hats,fire hats,political hats,

the clergy hats and many many more ….

but

what are the hats that you really wear

in your everyday lives…

stop and think.

Because if you have a handicapped child

or an elderly parent, relative or good friend

You personally are a forever caretaker,

driver,teacher,money handler,shelter provider,protector,

adviser,food & clothing helper…the list goes on

stop and really think....

You are so wealthy wearing these hats.

What hats do you wear and are you happy wearing those hats

and are you proud of the hats you have worn in your lifetime.

© Julia A Knaake

The wonderful freezers were in place. Zeus and Omega had three large fish prepared and vacuum packed for their own consumption and just in case they were putting together an instant food source for housebound elderly. There we not many but once in a while family or friends would come to Nick and ask for help.

The wonderful freezers were in place. Zeus and Omega had three large fish prepared and vacuum packed for their own consumption and just in case they were putting together an instant food source for homebound elderly. There we not many but once in a while family or friends would come to Nick and ask for help.

Since they were not selling the church said if it was inspected by an official and stamped it could be given away. These two relished in their new found job as well as their new friendship. Life goes on.

Mrs Papadopoulos Essie and Maria went through the clothes sorting in piles. Delitha said the clothing had been washed but not mended. That was sorted to repairing and button replacements. The shoes were sorted, polished and heels or soles repaired or replaced.

After two days everything was boxed and labeled. Ready to take to the church to be distributed to those in need.

Ari busy with business Essie spent her time in the garden. She also set up a chart for watering.

Sitting at the picnic table having a coffee break Nick and Essie spoke.

“Nick I know your papa and Omega will keep this garden in tip top condition but I am a person that sort of follows charts or plans. Lately I have been off chart and doing things a bit haywire.”

“Oh, my friend, I suspect very much you have been mesmerized by the notorious AM team. They both tend to disrupt your lives with excitement and passion.”

“AM team?”

“Ari and Maria. These two have been terrorizing me since we were all children.”

”Essie don't believe a word he says. He was the one that got Sissie and me into trouble our whole lives.”

“Yes, Essie that's true. Nick was the culprit that left us in the middle of a winery for four hours. We were cold, wet, hungry and lost in the blistering hot vineyard fields.”

“Maria your false tongue is curling like a grape vine!”

Essie's face was frozen,mouth slightly opened and eyes open wide in amazement.

“Nick! Stop! Look what you did to Essie.” pouted Maria.

Ari put his arm around Essie saying “ My Zouzouni now don't you fret.”

Maria laughed saying you are also my little bug. They all sat down for more coffee. Ari told Nick about the plan to go on his cousins yacht for a week vacation.

“Wish I could go but I'll be here with Papa and Omega. We probably will deliver some of the frozen fish to the church for distribution to the needy. I do not know if I have permission to take Omega to the church one hundred miles from city. Sophia and Rasmussen watch over Omega quite a bit. I know they trust Essie and Ari's driving but for some reason they seem to think I am a reckless driver?”

“I'll talk to them Nick. I have a feeling it is because of Sissy escapades with you.”

“Essie my sister does not drive well. She gets a bit crazy and doesn't even have a drivers license!”

“Maria if you wish I will teach you when we return. It is not that hard but you must control your emotions while in a vehicle.

For instance the other day you were squealing when we passed the baby goat stuck in the fence. It was alive and it's Mama came running to help her kid. We all thought you were stung or been hit by a rock. You must be serious if you want to be on the road.”

Ari's heart beat a few more beats. He thought of a poem:......... by Gwendolyn Elizabeth Brooks

To be in love

Is to touch with a lighter hand.

In yourself you stretch, you are well.

You look at things

Through his eyes.

A cardinal is red.

A sky is blue.

Suddenly you know he knows too.

He is not there but

You know you are tasting together

The winter, or a light spring weather.

His hand to take your hand is overmuch.

Too much to bear.

You cannot look in his eyes

Because your pulse must not say

What must not be said.

When he

Shuts a door-

Is not there_

Your arms are water.

And you are free

With a ghastly freedom.

You are the beautiful half

Of a golden hurt.

You remember and covet his mouth

To touch, to whisper on.

Oh when to declare

Is certain Death!

Oh when to apprize

Is to mesmerize,

To see fall down, the Column of Gold,

Into the commonest ash.

He knew he was falling in love but was she real? Only time would tell.

© Julia A Knaake

Adventurous Spirit 21

Delitha said we will be spending a bit of summer holiday in Milos at Syrma the fisherman’s house. We will probably sleep on the yacht for safety but there are some bunks and two actual bedrooms.

You and I can have one or we can use bunks but I get the bottom. I will have to climb a few stairs to get up.

They made a goofy swing contraption to hoist things up and down so sometimes I get hoisted down to grown level in that. It's actually fun except if there's a windy day,”

“What is the fisherman’s house?”

“Our Papa's family were all fishermen a one time. Our Papa was really a businessman but he loved fishing as Ari and I do. We both are into the business end now. We decided long ago we would give back to the sea and the families that work the sea. We decided long ago to give back to the sea that provided for our family long ago. That is why we are always volunteering either hands on or money. This week coming you will see Ari and Georgios actually out fishing the sea with a few other men. We ladies will not go. We can do anything we want. I personally get together with some of the local ladies and walk or take a donkey ride up the coastline and hunt for anything to eat. We then prepare the food as our ancestors used to do. I always have fun making pita. This will be a good place for you to wear your boots!”

Delitha will have the lady who's husband watches the property make us evening food. Melitzanokeftedes or better known as Greek Eggplant Meatballs. Oh my oh my she makes them like Mama. Delitha once had her little recorder in her pocket and taped what the lady said on how to make them. Delitha sent me a written copy. Some day you and I will make them in your kitchen if you have time. Mrs Papadopoulos has her own recipe so if I try this in her kitchen she will be hurt and think I do not care for her's anymore. This recipe tastes and smells just like Mama's.

“Why don't you ask the lady if she or a relative got the recipe from your Mama? After all their husbands may have known each other saying if they were both fishermen. The wives may also have known each other and exchanged recipes at one time.”

“Oh Essie you are so smart. Ari and Georgios are friends with some of the men that were their childhood friends. Their mothers may have known Mama and Papa. I think I will bring a photo book of photos that were taken at that time.”

“Great idea you may jog a memory or two.”

“Ari here they are up here in the library lounging around.” laughed Nick.

“Tell Essie the freezer has arrived and where does she want it placed. Also Maria there are 3 boxes of clothes and one box of shoes.” called Ari.

Later on that evening they were all invited to dine at the Taverna.

The only room big enough for such a large party was a closed off room. It did have large curtain covered windows and missmatched matched furniture with a small door. The lighting was good and the windows did open.

Essie got out her sketch pad and sitting between Maria and Ari started her little grey cells working. Ari ordered for the three of them and left his two favorite girls alone.

They whispered and plotted. Erased some of the plans then asked Ari if he thought it was a load bearing wall and if it were could it be reinforced?

He said he did not think it was but it could be changed.

“What exactly did you have in mind.”?

Th plan was to get rid of the curtains. Change the windows to open outward. Put some screens on them to keep out bugs. Birds and such. Have a safety fire exit going out the back.

Different industrial lights over the tables and instead of one small door into the room have a larger double door opening with a small attendant desk. Of course this would be only for large parties such as weddings, birthdays even children's parties. Anything that would need room for thirty sittings.

“Essie! Maria! You work well together. I think we can present this to Sophia and Rasmussen and see if it goes over well with them.”

©Julia A Knaake

Adventurous Spirit 20

On the way home Ari's truck broke down. The part he needed was not anywhere to be found. They were still close to his cousins yacht so he called for a rescue.

His truck was hauled off to a shop and he and Essie was to stay on the yacht where it would be safe for them. Ari and Essie had separate but connecting cabins.

Georgios wife, Delitha took a liking to Essie and brought her some dresses, a sweater, night clothes and a pair of folding slippers.

“Essie, please keep thee clothes or if they are not to your liking give them to Maria for her various people she helps. I need to get to her house and stay for a wek or two to help out. She and I have not seen each other for about two months.

We have dinner a bit late, not a lot but nutritious. I see the two cousins are busy catching up on more family history. I will help you dress for dinner then let's you and I go interupt them to come eat. I'm famished!”

Essie chose long dress with a light green print floating fabric, a white sweater and wearing the sandals, instead of the boots she looked heavenly.

Ari spotted Essie and almost fell from the stool he was sitting on.

Delitha and Georgios nodded to each other in approval.

“Well I convinced Essie to get out of her work boots for a while and enjoy life. Dinner is on the way boys. Let's eat.”

They lingered on dinner and music for about two and a half hours.

Delitha and Georgios suggested a walk around deck to see the full moonlight shining on the water. Essie and Ari walked arm and arm out in the crisp breeze. Ari explained he used to have his own private yacht but sold it a few years ago.

“I wanted to stay home more with Sissie and friends.”

“Do you miss sailing?”

“Sometimes but I can always come up here to sale with Delitha and Georgios. They like it when I sale with them.”

“Not trying to butt in but you can still sail with us anytime. Why not try a week sometime. Bring Essie and Maria before the weather gets rough around here. Nick can watch the property and I'm sure Zeus will stay by Omega's side for a week!” chuckled Georgios.

Delitha popped in saying “I'd love to see Maria again and I would like to know more about Essie and and how she handles herself. In f act some of our waitresses would like a few tips from her. It could be a working vacation for Essie and a catching up vacation for cousins. So what about it guys?”

“I'm ready and you're right I do need a spell away from the garden, painting walls and working around the house. According to Maria I have been spending a bit too much time up in the library with the books.” replied Essie.

“Actually I am set to go out to sea again if only for a week. I miss the sea air and fishing. All Georgios does is brag abot the new freezers he's going to install for his catch. I need to compete with him again.”

Delitha held Georgios back a little whispering

“Lets leave them and go have some wine. They'll catch up with us. I'm going to go call Maria and tell her she was right about Essie and will she be ready to come onboard next week for an adventure.”

Music playing:

From my balcony I send one,

two, three and four kisses to the world.

Over the docks of Piraeus fly

one, two, three and four seagulls I am told.

How much I'd love to have one, two, three and four boys,

proud and fine, And when one day they grow up

They'll be manly and strong for this precious port of mine.

And when I come out of my door there is no one in the world,

there is no one I don't love. And every night I close my eyes

and I sleep and I know I'll dream of them just like before.

Jewels around my neck a good-charm I carry

because the night falls and I long to find a perfect strange

and seduce him with my song.

So much I've tried I've never found a port to

captivate my heart as Piraeus does.

And when the night falls the air is filled with songs

with tunes and sounds and laughter

bursting with life and youthful calls.

© Julia A Knaake

Adventurous Spirit 19

The next morning Ari got a call from a relative who owned a two million dollar yacht. They talked a bit then he said he'd call back after he spoke to the lady. Ari then called Essie to see if she would go with him to see a man that had a boat.

“A man that had a boat?”

“Yes. He's got a big boat and he's having the kitchen galley remodeled as a surprise for his wife. He asked me if I knew anyone that would like some appliances, small and large so I thought of a small freezer for you and for Omega for some small convenience appliance items.

I'll go in the big truck and his helpers will load for me. It's down near where Zeus does his fishing. Will you go?”

“Sure I was only going in to town to get a few things I needed but they can wait.”

Ari picked her up and they went down to the water and parked in a yacht owners only space. Essie wondered why he picked that spot but decided not to ask. A man Ari knew met them at the dock and they boarded. After introduction they sailed out to a huge luxury yacht.

Ari and the owner hugged for a long time.

“Essie meet my cousin Georgios. He was to be a farmer but decided to sail the sea.”

“So I brought Essie to help me look at the things you want to discard. I may take them all so Maria can use them for her charity work.”

“First we have lunch then we talk about hauling off the items. I bet you only bought that beat up old red truck. Why don't you buy yourself a better truck you can afford it. Better yet let me buy you one.”

“Nothing wrong with this one. I have it all broken in the way I like it. Let it be. I like driving my ol Captain.”

Georgios explained to Essie that his dear wife wanted to modernize their yacht kitchen. Many of the items were different colors and a few years out of date.

A waiter came over to start serving and could not keep his leering eyes off Essie making her feel very uncomfortable. Georgios and Ari were turned the other way and did not catch the leers of the man but a waitress did see him and frowned.

Soon the waiter came back to the table with a plate of bread. He accidently ”dropped” the bread under the table and saying excuses went under the table to retrieve the bread and fondle Essie's leg!

Well that did not go over well with Essie. She gave him a sharp kick to the butt and when the man came up screaming words of filth trying to hit her she quickly karate chopped him to the door out to deck and overboard.

It all happened so fast only the waitress saw the whole thing and stood there clapping saying “Bravo! Bravo! That pig got what he deserved”

“Uncle Georgios this lady should get a medal for teaching that pig a lesson. He tried to grab my breast on day and I pulled a knife on him saying to leave me alone or I would cut his filthy paws off and tell my Uncle Georgios what he tried.

I heard from some of the other waiters that their sisters will not work for you because of him. You need to have a waitress and waiter advocate to keep them safe while working. You should hire this lady.”

“No no I already have a very good job managing a rental, an elder care companion, gardener, and massage therapist for Maria. I am not interested in sailing the open sea for great lengths of time.”

There were splashes and a man being pulled back to the deck. It was the waiter being pulled up on the boat. Not too close to Essie he called out an apology to the lady.

Essie noded her head then waved him away.

“I do not believe one bit that he is sorry other than he is sorry he got tossed into the sea to be cooled off.”

One of the deck hands told Georgios the men out on deck saw what the lady did and they told him they would not pull him up until he apologised.

Another man dove in on another part of the yacht with a shark head mask and they all told him he could stay there till the sharks spit out his bones!

After the lunch was finally done Essie and Ari picked out the things that were needed. His cousin kept them a bit longer. The niece waitress whispered something to her uncle.He shook his head. Then got Ari to stay a little longer.

“Tomorrow I will tell you when the barge will be here to pick up the items and take them to the rental and Miss Essie will have her freezer delivered.”

Slowly saying their goodbys Georgios wife came in and asked if this was the lady that could handle herself very well. The answer was yes.

She was introduced and smiling handed Essie a little golden toy medal pinned to a black beret. My niece said you deserved a medal. Here it is my new dear friend Essie.

© Julia A Knaake

Adventurous Spirit 18

Take great care of the treasures put in your charge here on earth. They can be gone in a heartbeat

Early the next day Ari, Maria and Nick were busy picking up a washing machine and possible dryer to install in the downstairs apartment. The downstairs mud room as they called it was a place to hang their dusty outer shirts and racks for boots. Also pegs to hang other clothing items.

Essie and Omega were over at the Taverna helping out. Rasmussen and Sophie were told to keep the two ladies busy all day.

Zeus was out fishing so no one was at the house. The laundry room would be in the back of the downstairs for both families to use.

Maria came along to pick out items like clothes pins and laundry baskets for the out door clothes lines. Two would be installed. A T-post style with two lines for blankets or sheets and a round one for small items. It would be set so Omega could reach.

Maria also picked out a folding drying rack for Essie to use upstairs.

After purchase the men brought the items back to the downstairs designated area.

Rasmussen and his friends were informed and they came over to install the machines. Ari had kept the plumbing and hook up area from the houses previous laundry so all was set in and it was ready to be used.

The man who built the outdoor wood oven came by to look at the stove and to bring herb cuttings in small pots for Essie and Omega to plant. He liked the apartment upstairs and the downstairs arrangements.

Soon Rasmussen let Sophia know it was time to close the Taverna and ask Essie to bring them home for the surprise.

The extra foods that could not be saved to sell the next day were packed and brought home also.

What luck the wood oven builder was there to take some of the extra foods to give away in his town. His mother would be very happy to see that because she and the other ladies of the village had a regular list of people that could use extra food.

Essie and Omega were thrilled at the sight of the new laundry room and the two clotheslines. They also planned on placing the herbs in the new garden spot where they would sit in a permanent location.

Soon Zeus came home with too many fish so some of the extras were packed in ice to be sent with the other foods.

Essie said to Ari:

“If you want to touch the past, touch a rock. If you want to touch the present, touch a flower. If you want to touch the future, touch a life.” – Anonymous

His heart did those flip flop little things again like when he first met Essie. He felt satisfied and happy.

Essie gave him a hug that made him feel sweaty.

                                                           While Essie lived at Maria and Ari's she helped go through unused clothes and of the gently used ones they were put into piles according to age and gender.

Some Maria was going to just toss out but both Mrs  Papadopoulos and Ari disagreed.

“Maria our parents pretty much gave us what we needed and sometimes waned but do not forget there are many people out there that have nothing to wear, little to eat and often no or a poor place to call home. Remember Papa and Mama said to never waste.”

“Ari as always you are so correct. I see that in our new friend Essie. She was destitute and dumped by her cousins on a cold rainy night. We all rallied together and cared for her. She has also taught us well.”

“Indeed she has.”Ari agreed. “I saw her the other day down at the picnic table gathering unused bread that was getting stale. I asked her why and she said she and Omega were going to make bread crumbs to fry the fish Zeus had caught. They had a pile of fresh herbs that had been cut to add for flavoring.”

“Ah, we have been invited over to a fish fry. That will be good. By the way I wanted you to take me over to talk to Nick about getting a used freezer. There is room in the room adjoining the  mud room. Sonia said often there is leftover food that can not be re-sold the next day but can be used for any of them or given away. Essie has been collecting jars to preserve foods and make spoon sweets to consume and and share. She has some lines up in the library with a few herbs drying. I think she needs a little extra freezer upstairs also. Ari smiled.

© Julia A Knaake