The Riverwalk and Fraidy Cat

Our destination today was Wilmington’s 1.5 mile Riverwalk along the Cape Fear. Having been jostled by the crowds of summer and of October’s Riverfest, I enjoyed the ability to power walk almost the entire length. I was so into it that I almost walked right into the filming of a scene for One Tree Hill. EUE/Screen Gems Studios or Hollywood East is big business here, having produced more than 300 movies and television shows. During nicer weather we have seen 2 or 3 film crews using the lovely old mansions in the historic district, various bars and restaurants, and the cemetery. We marvel at how many trucks of equipment and people it takes to film one short scene with the river as a backdrop.

We walk on enjoying the sights of the river. As we retrace our steps, we note that now all involved with the filming are standing around, chatting, texting or staring across the river.
































Just before we begin the walk up the hill to the car, my Sweetie points out a small shop, A Proper Garden. Since we are both avid gardeners, we must check it out.

After exploring the nooks and crannies and deciding that we really do not need anything, we turn to leave when Loren points out a cat curled up on a stool behind the counter. I am astounded to see that it looks a lot like Callie, our tortoiseshell, except that ours is just a tad bigger. Okay, a lot bigger. She has a full-bodied figure.

As we make up for weeks without our cats by lavishing attention on the small tortie, Peg tells us about Fraidy Cat who has been with her for 15 years. She showed up at the shop when she was a tiny kitten and has been there ever since. But it took two years before Fraidy Cat made the first overture of friendship, brushing by Peg’s leg. Now she is a love bug. We must have talked for at least 10 minutes and all the while, I was petting the cat. At one point I stopped and Fraidy Cat looked at my hands and then looked at me. Oh, just the same way Callie does it.

It is amazing how these little tigers capture one’s heart.