Traveling Spike

Traveling Spike in Durham, N.C.

Spike was a bit perturbed when he arrived in Durham, NC. Seems he had heard talk about visiting some “Duke” and “Blue Devils.” He assumed he was returning to England for a demonic party with royalty.

And then the first thing he sees when he comes out of his coffin is a great white cat, wondering if some little tasty treat was hidden away in the wee coffin.

After a bit of pouting over the lack of party and alcohol, Spike agreed to take a little tour of the area. We started at Duke University.

He agreed, somewhat petulantly, to allow his picture to be taken at some well-known sites. Duke Forest was the first stop.

He asked to forego a visit to Duke Chapel and we headed to Cameron Stadium. Being a soccer fan himself, Spike wasn’t too impressed with being in the hallowed halls of Coach K.

There was a run-in with another animal. Spike jumped on it prepared to do battle, perhaps hoping it was a werewolf. Alas, it was only Kimi, a recently adopted pound pooch.

Next stop was the Duke Lemur Center. It wasn’t too surprising to find out that at some time in his past, Spike had been to Madgascar. When he actually knew it was a Coquerel's sifaka lemur he was looking at, I was astonished. However, he finally admitted that after being up all night, he would watch Zoboomafee, a children's television show. And Spike was astonished when I told him that Jovian, a male Coquerel's sifaka from the Duke Lemur Center, played the part of the lemur Zoboo on the television series.

I could tell Spike was getting a bit bored with academia, so I took him down to the renovated American Tobacco Warehouse district. A reverent look came over him as he spied the old Lucky Strike smokestack. Lucki-ly (insert pun here), there was a nearby pub where Spike could sit with a drink and enjoy the view.

Time was getting short, so I stuffed him back in his coffin which was now full of white cat hair, and sent him on his way. I think he is getting quite tired of the stuffing and mailing.

- Carol

Traveling Spike in NJ, NY

TS arrived in New Jersey in April - just in time for me to be on Spring Break!

The first order of business was to show him the new Traveling Spike box that I made for him. He seemed relatively pleased and was happy to pose with it for me.

Then we got down to the order of the day. My mother was in for a visit and we were dying Easter eggs. TS asked if he could make a special one, to which I replied that he certainly could.

Unfortunately, my mother alerted 12" Angel to the nature of the egg Spike made. He was NOT pleased! We found ourselves in the middle of a bit of a battle between the two. Spike got in a particularly well-placed kick and Angel got very angry. Luckily, 12" Spike heard the ruckus and came to TS's aid.

The noise drew the attention of Smile Time Angel and, well...

Eventually, the two made up, and Spike went about meeting some other members of the household. His knowledge of Klingon is actually much greater than he would have us all believe. He and Worf found that they had much in common, although he and the felines got into a bit of a turf war.

"Live long and prosper, Mate."

"Hey! Watch the claws!"

The rest of the day was spent watching videos and reliving some of the good old days.

"Now THERE'S a talented bloke!"

The next day we set out to show TS that New Jersey isn't all highway and grime. There are plenty of great places to visit and a lot of beautiful scenery.

TS loves a challenge

We took him to see some of the hot spots in Point Pleasant. The track...

the poker table...no kitten poker, though...

the slots (he thought he was going to win, but...)

Next we tried our hands at games of skill. I had to help TS operate a few of the machines, but he enjoyed the dancing, driving, and shooting a lot more than the slots. I think his favorite may have been Skee-Ball, as he won some tickets there.

After the games, we decided to shop and eat. My husband loaded TS up in his pocket and off we went.

"Good puppy."

"Hey! A Pooka!"

"What, no Angelus? No Buffy? No SPIKE?"

"At least there's Sarah."

"Hmmmm..."

"One of each. Got any Bloomin' Onions?"

Stomachs full, we headed out onto the beach, where Spike built a sand castle.

When we returned home later that evening, TS and 6" Angel took a stroll outside to read my license plate.

"So, explain to me again about this 'fanfic'?"

The next day, we went for Easter Brunch and Spike met yet another Pooka. Although TS did have some eggs, sausage and a mimosa, we managed to sneak in a special meal disguised as ketchup.

For our final day together, we went to New York City. Even though Spike and Dru had spent some time there, TS had never been to the top of the Empire State Building.

"Kinda tall..."

Upon descending, we met up with some native New Yorkers who were very pleased to pose with TS.

We went for dinner and a few refreshments, and TS did his best to entertain the kids.

Finally, we stopped off for a nightcap at a western themed bar, and Spike invited me to have a Margarita with him, while we sorted through some Men of Sunnydale cards.
"There's only ONE 'Man of Sunnydale'," TS scoffed.

The next day we said goodbye and he was on his way. Thanks for dropping by, TS! It was a great visit.

Jessie Wintle

Traveling Spike's Journey Coming to an End

Traveling Spike is down to his last couple of stops and soon will pack it in.

After he has had a chance to rest a bit, he'll be working on his scrapbook of all the wonderful places around the world that he's visited. This scrapbook will be auctioned off in order to raise money for the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation.

Thanks to all who have participated!

Traveling Spike in Liverpool

Spike is here!!

Finally after an age of waiting (or 2 days) he came through the door and out of the envelope.

"Soddin' 'ell I've 'ad enough of bein' stuffed in an envelope!"

I managed to calm him down by playing Kitten Poker.

On our second day we travelled to the beach as the sun was shining [yes England has nice whether sometime!]. Our experienced traveller offered some helpful advice,

"If ya ain't got no sunscreen try burying ya 'ead in the sand."

At the time I thought he was nuts but the next day I wished I'd listen because one of us ended up with sunburn and it wasn't the one who measures less than 8 inches. Spike was glad to be home in the Motherland but was a little upset that our outing together could have proved hazardous without the factor 5000.

TS didn't seem to care that we all had our reservations about him driving home.

"It ain't the DeSoto but it'll do"

"Look kids! Liver Birds"

The next day TS was occupied by my 5 year old niece. She thought he made a great date for Daphne. Unfortunately we had to restrain Fred at that suggestion.

"Ever been to Woodstock?"

"Can ya believe this poncy git is ignoring me?" I didn't have the heart to explain to TS that Shaggy wasn't all together there in the head [well he is plastic].

Spike came to work with me and was surprised to find that despite his best effort his typing skills weren't as good as mine.

[The 2 gold fish are William and Spike and the black fish is Angel]

"That's it boys get that little ponce!"

Spike wasn't to glad that his counterparts were sharing a tank with Angel.

After assisting me greatly at work and becoming one of the family it was very hard to put him back in an envelope to forward him on (mainly 'coz he threatened to suck me dry if I dared put him in the envelope) but somehow I managed and then he was off across the country to visit his next host.

-- Sam

Traveling Spike in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Traveling Spike arrived from Australia well-rested. He showed me the gift book he'd been given as a souvenir, and I felt that merely catching the 2-hour flight from Oakland to Scottsdale might be a letdown. However, he reminded me about his fondness for those little serving-size bottles of brown beverages.

What Spike lacks in...um...stature, he makes up in attitude. He clearly liked the attention he got everywhere we went, and could be quite charming. Also, when he makes eye contact with those ceruleans, you know you've been looked-at.

The hotel was very posh! I discovered that Spike can zero in on a mini-bar faster than a politician on a photo op.

Spike came with me to the Giants/Cubs game. Spike bought the first round of beers. I said, "Thanks Spike, you're a doll."
I got The Look: "Well...yeah."
"Sorry. Term of endearment."
"Oh. Right."

We took our seats on the shady side of the stadium and settled back to enjoy the game. In his travels this year Spike's had the chance to see some baseball, so I didn't have to explain too much.

Here at Spring Training, though, the players are more relaxed, and the atmosphere is festive. Three innings into the game, picture the following exchange, as the Giants' Barry Bonds steps to the plate: Spike: "That Bonds fella, now..."
Me: "What about him?"
"Vampire."
"What? Is not!"
"Is. Look," Spike counts old-style, staring with his left thumb. "One, super-strength. I mean, look. See?" ...as the ball flies out of the stadium and into the parking lot... "See how far that ball went? That's just not human. Two," index finger comes up, "people treat him with the respect to due to us Big Bads. Don't interrupt. Three," middle finger, "he's got the immortality thing going; I mean, how old he say he is? Please." "Spike, Barry Bonds is not a vampire. That's crazy troll logic." The announcer's commentary doesn't help my case. "The Cubs' pitching looks anemic against Bonds...there's a break in the action while they bring in some new blood." Spike buries his smirk in beer-foam.

I collect Hopi katsinas (kachinas), so I took Spike to visit my friends Deb and Alston Neal at the Old Territorial Shop in Old Town, to see if any neat carvings had come in.

"Oh right then! Demons!" Spike's only this cheerful when a fight is imminent. "Not demons, Spike. Well, technically, the one on the right is an Ogre. But there will be no fighting. These are good spirit beings, who guard and guide the people. Katsinas bring the clouds and the rain, teach the children, and keep the stories alive. Besides, they'd whup your tiny butt, so show some respect."

We stopped for a snack at the famous Sugar Bowl, a retro favorite and hangout of "Family Circus" artist Bill Keane. (Sweet little cartoons all over the place.) The Sugar Bowl is a must-do for any Scottsdale visit.

And of course, we had fun with Big Cactus,

and Spike insisted on doing the "BOO" pose you see here. It was a great day.

I took Spike to the post office, to put him on his flight to his next destination. We had a final chat, on the way: "So Spike, when your travels are over, what will you be doing? Ever think about getting a ..." "What? A day job? Vampire, pet. Thought about doin' some acting, but waitin' on a movie deal, well, 'that way madness lies'." "True. Even so, I'm sure you'd put the Method in't."

Things seem oddly quiet, now. Happy trails, TS!

-- Peggy

Traveling Spike in Australia

Upon arrival, our little mate looked a little the worse for ware, and decided to recline in place for a time. TS noted that at least this time he'd been sent in something vaguely resembling a coffin! "Beats a bloody bag any time!"

Later that night, after a refreshing nap, TS decided he'd give me a hand making table place cards for the local RAAF Accociation (Royal Australian Air Force). At first he contened himself with rounding the corners for me, but upon discovering the gillotenine, proceded to discribe some of his more macabre adventures for our, er, amusement. "Seen a few of these used in my time - just as inventively too!"

The next day I took TS on a driving trip up the coast to Margate to visit some friends of mine, also fans of his

.

TS was a surprise guest for the day,and there after regaled us with tale upon tale of his travels. "Been bloody everywhere! First time in the Land Down Under though!"

TS thought he'd found a friend in the form of an amoured knight standing guard on the book shelf. Despite many attampts to start a conversation, the knight refused to be distracted from his duty, and stoutly ignored our favourite little vamp. "Ponce," was heard muttered for several minutes.

In the hope of better understanding several people of his acquaintence, TS took the opportunity to enter the mind of a rather see-through person... needless to say, he didn't find much in there :P

A demonstration of skills was then called for, with TS bravely showing s where on a bad vamp a stake should properly be applied "Here, you git! In the heart, not the head!"

Scott had many 'pet' dragons around the house, none tame, and our little vamp immediately decided to rectify the situation...although he adn't QUITE meant to do so via indigestion!

Fortunately, we found him a far more accomodating 'pet', and soon the self-proclaimed King of the Dragons' flew madly about the room at top speed.

At one point he landed with some other relics... "Oi! Who you callin' a bloody relic?!"

Later that night, a party was held back at my place by some of the other locals. TS was sadly dissapointed when told the other guests were all vegetarians, and there would be no blood served for the duration. "Some party this turned out to be!"

The bouncer was quickly on the scene, sweeping TS off his feet to ensure his continued good behaviour. Upon reliasing the nortoriety of the blonde vamp, the bouncer begged a photo to take home to the kids - how could you refuse?

All too soon, it was time to be leaving, headed back to the US of A, so I thought I'd best get a photo before TS's flight left!

Bye, TS!! Come visit us again some time!

-- Fiona

Traveling Spike in Belmont, Miss.

While in Belmont, population 1,961, Traveling Spike checked out both the public library and the Post Office.

Here's a poem for our hero:

Traveling Spike

Traveling Spike
is going from
town to town.

You may look around
and there he will be
found.

Like the hero
who fights for
the right.

Traveling Spike
is the Soul Survivor
who will one day
go out into the light.

So watch your mail
closely for you never
know when Traveling
Spike will take the Mic.

-- Sarah

Traveling Spike in Orlando

Traveling Spike arrived in Florida on a typical muggy day. "Where the bloody hell am I now? It's like a sauna in that mailbox! Orlando, Florida, well that explains the palm trees."

TS was feeling a bit peckish after his long trip, so he eagerly quaffed a glass of specially blended Vampire wine and downed some spicy buffalo wings with a frosty pint. "That was great luv. Mind if I clean up a bit?"

Hey! Some privacy would be nice!

Well, TS, you've been all around the world. What are you going to do next?

I'm goin' to bloody Disney World!

TS greets Walt & Mickey at Cinderella's castle. Well, this is quite the poofter castle innit?

Minnie is thrilled when TS recites a familiar poem to her.

"My heart expands,
'tis grown a bulge in it,
Inspired by your beauty...
Effulgent."

At least someone appreciates my poetry, even if she does have a tail...

TS does a quick patrol of the Haunted Mansion cemetery, but doesn't see any unusual activity. Probably a bit too early for the vamps & demons to be out. But what's that awful racket in the distance?

It's a small world after all
It's a small world after all
It's a small world after all
It's a small, small world....

I am NOT goin' on that nancy boy ride! It was Dru's favorite hangout in the 70's what with all the dolls and the kids and more dolls and more kids. Took me years to get that bleedin' song outta my head. I'm telling you, it's diabolical!

TS calmed down considerably when we explained we were heading to the Pirates of the Caribbean instead.

Pirates, wenches, and rum, that's more like it! Yo ho yo ho, a pirate's life for me...

TS checks out some remains in a pirate's chest. No treasure here!

We concluded our Disney trip with a visit to the Tower of Terror. Pffftt, doesn't look all that terrifying to me! Whoa!!! Heh, plunging 13 stories in a crowded elevator with screaming Happy Meals on legs, now THAT was fun!