This is Rufus, who doesn't bark, just says "G'Day, mate"; "Good on yer"; "Too true, Blue", "Bonzer grub!" and the like. Also he has no tail and does not appear to ever have had one. He is probably a political refugee, who lives with... *

Barb. She's a bit spaced out here, as she is a construction electrician who for months has been working tough hours and doing a LOT of long-dtstance driving to do it. Barb does a lot of reenactments with us, together with... *

...her husband John, who is NOT Santa in mufti, but a marine hydrographer who has taken on a new persona as a colonial land surveyor when we're re-enacting. *

John & Barb and Rufus brought littl catnip-stuffed plush mice for the kitties. Sooty grabbed hers and, clutching it with both paws, licked it like there was no tomorrow. *

Wot, ME share me little meeces? *

Ah, yes, stoned at last...but I'm NOT letting go of the meece! *

Smudge hesitated a bit, but soon got the idea. *

Are those eyes glazing over? *

Good idea, Soots! I'll hang onto this little bloke as well! *