[Galloping Glade] Weekend with the Apples [Closed]

[brianblackberry]

Carrot Fields laughed as Purple bumped him and commented on how she needed to take care of him. Truth was they really did take care of each other, even if Carrot did tend to treat Purple like a little filly at times, he really did appreciate all that she did on the farm. "I'm glad yoo're wi' me oan th' farm tae help it an' stuff, an' Ah suppose e'en 'takin' caur ay me'; life wooldnae be th' sam withit mah wee sister." Carrot gave a wink and a smile.

Of course not everything was smoothed over in Purple's mind. She made it abundantly clear that she had no desire to go back home. Worse, she was fully aware of his feelings towards Applejack the entire time and didn't have any sort of issue mentioning that fact in public! Carrot's eyes darted forward, but if any of the others heard what she said, they weren't showing it. Why bother denying it at this point? "Weel jist dae me a favur an' dornt say anythin' tae Applejack? Ur it lood in front of 'er? Just gie yer big brae a chance, alrecht? Noo gang an' hae fin wi' Applebloom but dornt stay up tay late in th' tent!"

Trusting in his sister to actually go along with what he asked, Carrot turned towards his own tent but stopped mid-way there with the realization that Applejack had no where else to sleep that night, unless she decided just to rough it outside. From what he could tell, she appeared as indecisive about what to do with the ad hoc situation as he was.

Now was not the time to be a dumbtail though, even if he felt nervous as a foal on the first day of school. Instead the ruddy maned stallion pulled out an old, olive-green R.E.A blanket. Sure it was a little ratty and stained, but it was thick and warm. He sat down right next to Applejack and flicked the blanket with his mouth to cover the both of them. "I've hud thes auld thing since Ah joined th' R.E.A ah couple years back, it really saved mah freezin' flenk a few times while oan guard duty ootwith ay Stalliongrad, heh. Ah hope ye dornt min', ye jist looked sae cold out haur." Hopefully she didn't see them wrapped together as him being too close; yet again if she did, she wouldn't hesitate to let him know, it was a few of the things he admired about the orange mare, her honestly and her straightforwardness. "Sorry 'at uir staurn gazin' was cut short, but we'll still hae tha' moorns nicht, if ye ur still interested." Hopefully she was.

It didn't take much for Carrot to notice that she was tired in addition to being cold. It was late, well late for farmers such as them, who were used to being up as soon as Celestia readied the sun. "Yoo're welcome tae sleep in mah tent tonecht if ye loch." As soon as he said it, he mentally slapped himself, as that sounded exactly like a proposition to share a tent together intimately. As wonderful as that may sound as an idea, he didn't mean to suggest such a thing, especially since it felt like such a suggestion that, at the time, would be taking advantage of her being cold and all. Carrot blushed as he leaned back, rubbing the back of his mane with his forehoof, "er, Ah mean ye can hae mah tent tae sleep in! I'll sleep it haur by th' fire, R.E.A an' aw, used tae it, plus blankit!!"

Can he get through one hour talking to a mare without sounding like a dumbtail?

[Bramble Rose]

Purple Haze rolled her eyes at her big brae. "Nae, Oi was gaen come roit out an' tell her all, wannitaye?" She let out a soft scoffing noise. "Aye, Oi've had enough ah one night. Hopin' taemarra 'll be better. Good sleep, brae!" She hurried over, then, to help Big Mac get Apple Bloom into the bed. Ouch. She got hit LOTS worse by that swarm. Poor Apple Bloom! "Oi've got it from here, Big Mac! Sorry bout th' fuss. Oi've got some carrot family ointments here Oi kin help 'er with if'n she's got a problem sleepin'. An' a nice powder Oi kin slip in water and'll leave her all muzzy. We'll be fine."

She tucked Apple Bloom in, being really careful with the blanket so as not to drag it over the bites, and made sure she was all right. "Ye let me know if'n ye want any water or medicines or whatnot, aye? Oi dinnae mind doin' yer runnin fer t'night, but don't expect t'get used t'it!"

​

I'm ready for jumping ahead to tomorrow morning if you all are!

[SunsetSombra]

With that last piece of help outta the way, Macintosh knew he was gettin' tired - knnown it from how he'd yawned fairly constantly the last 30 minutes...but he hadn't really felt it until after this whole ordeal with the younger fillies. Seriously, he suddenly felt like all the energy had literally been sapped outta him like some kinda energy-sappin' thing. He gave another hefty yawn and shook himself to try an' get some sense of awareness again, but he knew that he needed to crash...even for a pony who was built like he was made outta 2 and a half ponies, he needed good sleep just like anypony else might!

With Applebloom having been taken care of by the lass Purple Haze, he gave a small sleepy nod and a simple 'Eeeyup!' to her comment about having it from here. He swiftly left the pair of them to it, and gave his casual wave to Applejack as he finally manages to make it back to his tent uninterrupted, gracelessly flopping into the sanctuary and rolling on his side with a small sigh of what was a mix of contentment and exhaustion, closing his eyes and allowing himself to drift off to a slowstarting slumber.

As long a day as it had been today, there was no doubt he had more to come tomorrow...may as well get that rest whilst he could!

[SteelEagle]

The world spun slowly for a filly in pain, but she dealt with it. Apple Bloom had always been a tough little filly, her cuts and scrapes throughout the day a symbol of her toughness. You had to be tough to be an apple. You were cut all the time, bruised all the time, made victim by the occasional cruelty of fate. Almost never did things work out the way that they would for a city pony. She was happy that way though. Toughening yourself up through the labor and miseries that accompanied her life only made the love of her family and friends and the joy of her life all the greater. But none of that had anything to do with about a bajillion killion bee stings that pockmarked her like hills in the Roundbottom. Luckily, Applejack had ointment. Purple had ointment. If she played her cards right by the morning she would be less a pony and more of an organic holder of the majority of the world's ointment. That was an attractive option. More attractive though was simply allowing herself to sleep. The majority of the stings were on her back so maybe if she slept on her stomach she wouldn't hurt as much! Sounded like a plan to her.

Of course, she was happy to be with Purple. She was a lot of fun to be around even if some of her ideas ended up with the pair being accosted by violent beefolk. All she wanted to do was make sure that she could get to the next day. They had all sorts of plans and Abby wasn't going to be the stick in the mud that prevented them! On the contrary. She was gonna be the most active and excited filly this side of the world and there wasn't anything a thousand kajillion bee stings could do to stop her epic heart and desire. With that in mind, she took the tuck in well. It was getting close to bed time in any case and she knew that she'd need it. Her back felt like fire but it would have to be that way. The ointment AJ used would work and if it got really bad, maybe a batch of Purple's ointment would be in order. But only if she really needed it!

"Thanks for tha offer, Purple. Ah reckon all Ah need is some sleep. Uhh, if you hear me yell or somethin' Ah probably just rolled on mah back. I feel like a camel now, 'cept instead of two big bumps I have thousands or trillions of smaller ones," she laughed weakly, digging her head into her pillow as if she was trying to drive it into the center of the earth.

[Hippo]

The shivers were soon ushered out by the offering of Carrot's blanket, which he proudly covered Applejack with only after he first sat close to her to share it. Such a generous stallion. "Oh, thanks. I was just about to go to sleep. I had a few extra blankets to sleep under the stars if I had to." Applejack looked up, seeing the stars as they were before blinking and twinkling their performance, with the occasional cloud covering them during intermissions of their spectacle. When Carrot offered his tent, Applejack figured it was just as much for him to do such a thing, and sacrifice his spot so she could be warm, while he would sleep out by the fire. Applejack chuckled, and didn't even feel like playing coy anymore. "Nah, Carrot. We can just sleep in the same tent. There doesn't need to be a distance between us." Applejack looked an him and smiled. "What, am I too girly for you to sleep next too?" Applejack intentionally initiated the jab at him, knowing it would probably fluster him. "Your tent is big enough isn't it? I think we'll be fine. And I trust you enough. The question is," Applejack got up from under the blanket and started walking towards the tent, "do you trust me?" Applejack winked and grabbed her sleeping sack, and crawled into Carrot's tent, rolling out the sack and folding herself into it.

​

OOC: Let's do one more cycle before the next day. I figure Mac will probably pass, since he's sleeping. Let us know if you are passing so we can skip you if needed.

[brianblackberry]

Carrot Fields felt comfortable, more so than her felt nervous, even though he was snugged up close right next to Applejack under his old, heavy R.E.A blanket, the quiet shared moment just felt right. He couldn't blame her for her willingness to sleep under the stars though, it was a beautiful clear night, and if it wasn't for the craziness involving his sister and Applebloom, there was a good chance he'd still be pointing out various wonders hidden in the night sky to the beautiful orange mare. "Ah used tae sleep ootside under th' blankets oan mah back, starin' up at th' sky aft. when Ah was a colt, Eh'd sneak ootside at nicht efter mah parents went tae sleep, jist tae lay back an' watch them oan th' wee hill by uir farm hoose aw nicht." He placed his forearm around her, to help keep her warm of course, as he continued to look up at the magnificent show of stars above them.

As beautiful as the sky was, it was obvious Applejack was tired, staying up this late did take its toll on farmers, something he knew all too well. He was all ready to stay outside alone when, in her usual straightforward manner, pointed out that they could just share his the tent. She was right of course, it didn't make him blush any less, even if she didn't imply anything beyond merely sleeping, or did she? "Whit? Uhh.. nae! er, Ah mean uhh, yoo're nae tay girly, Ah mean yoo're plenty fine! Girly in th' reit way!" Oh Luna above, what was he even saying?! What did girly in th' reit way! even mean?!

Of course he could have declined and stayed outside alone, and in the past his shyness and his uncertainty may have compelled him to do just that. Not this time though, not when she just told him that she trusted him. Carrot may be a dumbtail sometimes when it came to mares, but he knew that she had easily figured out that he was very attracted to and had strong feelings towards her, and despite that, or perhaps because of it, she was willing to sleep there next to him in his tent.

The ruddy maned stallion just watched with rapt attention as Applejack slipped into his tent with her sleeping bag; she looked so beautiful with her freckled smile, especially in the moonlight. He just stood there for a moment like a statue, just watching as his mind replayed over what just happened before he shook his head. He had only one thing to say and one word in answer to Applejack's final question, as he grabbed his old blanket around himself and headed in, "aye".

[Bramble Rose]

Purple Haze didn't take long to fall asleep - as much as she liked to claim she was a young mare, she really was still just a filly, and she'd had a long day - even before the long hike and the antics at camp, she'd been up before the sun for all those morning chores, and once she'd allowed herself to stop, she was out like a candle.

​

[Hippo]

When Carrot walked into the tent with obedience like a well-trained dog, Applejack had no intention to make him any more uncomfortable than he already was. She knew he had a liking towards her, and honestly, Applejack felt like she could share that feeling back. And when two responsible adult ponies end up sharing a tent on a friendly camping trip like this, it's apparent to everypony, even Applejack, that something could truly spark inside the thin fabric.

However, Applejack would refrain from entertaining those thoughts too far, as not only did she feel it would be inappropriate to mount such an experience without further courtship, but both of them would probably deem the environment too close to call. With two little ponies and a snoring big brother within a pony grunt away, any frisky activity would probably put the whole trip in jeopardy.

"I tend to cuddle with ponies I sleep with. Is that ok?" Applejack always slept alone at home, but she knew she had this strange urge to hug a warm body she was next to during her hours of sleeping, pending any tossing and turning during slumber of course.

Applejack's eyes were closed as she waiting for Carrot to fill the spot next to her. As awake as she seemed, the moment the muscle relaxed, she would soon fall asleep from all the action and excitement from the day. And in the morning she would look forward to new daylight and the new full day to spend with her family and her friends.

​

Brian, feel free to post again as Carrot and start the new day.

[brianblackberry]

It was early, early enough the sun still sat well below the horizon but its influence could already be seen by the bands of orange and red that radiated out from the slowly brightening horizon. There were only a few clouds in the sky, but they were made to look like beautiful flames in the sky from the brilliant warm hues they reflected. On the far side of the sky, one could see the Moon slowly receding as it arranged to disappear in preparation for the day, along with the few remaining, brightest stars, now barely visible in the deep blue heavens. Small insects chirped and the frogs of a nearby bog croaked, but little else was stirring among the morning dew, only the occasional owl’s distinctive call indicated that any other animal was awake. It was in the mist of this peaceful, serine scene one found a gray earth stallion with a long, and still quite wild, ruddy mane, sniffing the morning air and sighing contently at the new day, not to mention everything that had lead up to this point.

He wasn’t the only pony stirring in the early daybreak, Purple Haze was already up, tending to the banked fire, preparing to make breakfast – and Carrot was by no means going to interrupt that; food was her domain and he was little help in that area, in fact she usually preferred for him not to be in the kitchen at all. “Guid day purple, I’ll be doon in th' loch if ye need me fur anythin', ur when breakfest is ready.” He gave her a warm smile and a wink before moving on, as Carrot was feeling more chipper than normal.

Carrot trotted away from the camp, but as he headed towards the nearby lake, the gray stallion quickly sped up to a full gallop. It only took mere seconds but the small cliff of a bank quickly came into view, a perfect diving platform! Well at least a pretty good impromptu one. In either case, he speedily jumped right off the edge and dove full force momentarily into the crisp morning air before making a huge splash into the chilly, clear waters below.

If any part of carrot was still groggy from getting up so early, it wasn’t any more once his body was completely immersed in the cold but refreshing lake. After a few seconds his head popped out of the surface with his long, soaked mane now flattened as he looked about the silent shore wondering when the others would awake, and with even more curiosity, if Applejack also liked swimming.

[Bramble Rose]

Purple Haze had woken up with the sun, feeling wonderful for having slept in. And rather proud that she'd woken up before her big brae for once! She immediately set to for her favorite part of camping out - preparing breakfast! She pulled up the kindling she'd hidden under a tarp to keep the morning dew off, and in short order, she had the banked coals crackling as a small flame. She waved to Carrot as he came by, letting out a merry little, "Guid morn! Ye hae a guid swim, looks tae be a bonnie day brewin!"

A small flame became a medium flame, and she let the wood burn down a little to get a good new fresh bed of coals while she went to work with her little knife and some of the provisions she'd brought. Potatoes got diced, skins still on - cause skins were the best part - and carrots got diced in there with them. A little wooden box was full of tiny pouches of her favorite spice blends, which went into the mix, along with some nice big chunks of butter. She put the whole veggie mix into a little porcelin pot, scooped a bunch of coals off to one side, and tucked them in to cook for a bit, then propped up a couple of larger logs to either side and laid her cast iron griddle over the fire. Before long, eggs and spiced veggies were letting out a delicious odor floating out across the campsite. And she even had a tin kettle to the other side of the fire, warming up in case anypony wanted some tea or coffee with their breakfast!

​

[SunsetSombra]

A night under the stars really had a way of sending a pony into a long, peaceful slumber and Mac awoke the next morning feeling both refreshed and amused at last nights rather awkward events...whilst he wasn't exactly sure how the younger fillys were feeling yet, he had an idea that they would probably be a little less boistrous than usual for a few hours when they woke up. There was also the question of just what had been taking place with Carrot and Mac's sister - Mac snickered a little as he thought back to having caught glimpses of them quietly chatting between the pair of them during the night...if there was any opportunity, he might have to make a few playful ribs at AppleJack, even if things were as innocent as she might inevitably claim them to be!

at any rate, Macintosh was kinda in the mood for breakfast chowtime, and thus after stowing away his sleeping bag he sets out to see just how things were proceeding - the rather delicious aroma of vegetables and coffee setting macs stomach into a low growl, which would probably have been heard by those nearby. He chuckles and canters towards Carrot and Purple with a small stretch and a scratch of his muzzle, giving a small nod of acknowledgement as he settles down near the pair with a small smile adorning his muzzle.

" Mornin', ah hope ya'alls slept well... " Mac says, glancing at the pair of them whilst giving a quick yawn. " Ah know ah did...like a log! "

[SteelEagle]

Apple Bloom wasn't as much of a snorer she thought, at least compared to the volcano that was her brother some nights. You'd swear that the orchard was being consumed by the fiercest storm in all of Equestria some nights! But tonight he was silent but she could only guess maybe she was loud. Apple Bloom awoke to a mighty snore and sneeze, blowing a tiny bug out of her nopse that may have been more responsible for the snore than anything else, It crawled away as the little Apple filly crawled out of her tent and yawned, noticing that everypony else was now up. That was good! Less time dilly dallying.

“Ahhhh, what time is it, Purple?” Apple Bloom asked as she rubbed her eyes, bounding towards the main campsite with as much energy as she could muster. She wasn't much of a morning filly but heck, it was a better day to relax and have fun if you started off with a bit more energy than what she had. Some good, nice breakfast might set her right. Nothing was better than a great breakfast to jumpstart a day of activity and energy. Likewise, a bad breakfast would send her tummy and spirit spiralling. Good for everypony around that the Apples never made food that was anything less than great and if anypony said the opposite, they could go right on ahead and stick a giant pike where the sun don't shine!

'Anypony know whatcha want for breakfast?”

[Hippo]

Small chatter and a few clanking of cooking pans was enough to wake Applejack up softly. She heard first, and then when she opened her eyes, she could see the shadows of trees from the early morning sunrise casting on the paper thin tent. The next thing Applejack noticed, was that she was alone, with extra space to sprawl her legs out, in their unvoluntarily sleeping position, just like always. And then next came the relization that she shared the tent with Carrot. A part of her felt like it was a dream, the happening feeling a little too good to be true, though her memory was sharp enough to know that it was real. The occasions that Applejack slept next to anypony, even her little sister, she would have to remember that there were there. Although, in Apple Bloom's case, she was usually still there sleeping in like little sister always did.

She smelled food, and it smelled good. However, it did not smell done yet. Purple was making breakfast, she reminded herself, which means she had the morning off of duties. Applejack gave a loud silent yawn, and stretched her legs violently before picking herself up. She did not mind brushing off the blanket, as she let it fall off her as she walked out of the tent. Her eyes obviously not keen to the new day just yet, but her smile spoke otherwise. "Mornin' ya'll. Imma take a quick bath."

A slow walk towards the lake and Applejack answered her last thoughtful question. Where did Carrot go? Well, apparently, the stallion decided to get up, shake a few legs and make a jump for the lake. And all without inviting his friend, Applejack thought smugly. No offense, but a challenge taken, Applejack would run towards the lake and would follow Carrot's jump. When she landed, she tucked in her hooves to make a big splash, and when she surfaced, she spat out the stagnant lake water that while tasted unpleasant, wasn't a horrible way to wake up. By now, Applejack's senses were fully awake, and her desire to have fun on the second day of camping was turned on. "Well look who it is. Mr. Carrot Fields. Decided to take a dip in the lake without me, huh?"

​
 

[brianblackberry]

Carrot was underwater with the golden maned Apple mare announced her presence in the swimming hole, but felt the impact of her presence none the less. He erupted from under the waters a second later, tossing his long mane back out of his eyes. As the morning sun shone down through the flying droplets, he slowly tossed his head left and right, the spray of water turning into a shimmering rainbow from the orange morning light. He took his hooves and wiped the water back from his face and through his long mane as it draped around his shoulders, drawing it back, then gave a broad grin to Applejack, and though the sun was behind him, it also somehow managed to glint off his white teeth. “Guid day, weel Ah was feelin' a bit warm in th' tent sae Ah figure Ah woods cool aff before breakfest, didn’t want tae wake ye thocht, bein' sae early an' aw.” He gave a wink as they both well knew she would certainly be as an early riser as he.

As he swam back slightly in jest, he finally got a good look at the smiling mare; the early morning sun bathed her flattened and soaked mane in its rays, making it glisten like gold as if this moment was intended by fate. All he could do for a few second was lower his head with a shy smile as his cheeks flushed, uttering under his breath “bonnie”. Thank goodness the water at least kept him cool, well somewhat cool, as he swore it was suddenly warm out.

After a few second he shook his head, knowing he’d look like a dumbtail staring too long and not saying anything, “ So umm, heh..” Ugh, why was he being so shy after last night?! Oh right.. “Ahem, sae did ye hae anythin' particular ye wanted tae dae fur the-day, efter breakfest an' aw ay coorse!”

[Bramble Rose]

Purple Haze smiled brightly to Big Mac as he came up to the fire pit, setting down just as Carrot was leaving for the lake. And speaking more words than she'd ever heard from him. "Well, giddae tae ye as well, Big Mac!" She waved to Applejack as she went past, too, headed the same direction. "Dinnae mind me brae, 'e prolly dinnae hear ye. He was roit lookin' forward tae th' mornin' swim." Seems everyone was rousing at the same time.

Purple Haze laughed as Apple Bloom finished the set by coming over looking for breakfast. Purple poked a long stick at the stuff already in the fire's coals and the cast iron griddle. "Aye, Oi think Oi do know what's fer breakfast," she laughed. "Sure'n Oi'm makin' a proper fry-up, some breakfast hash here. Set down 'n wake up a mite. Mac, didje want sommat of a mornin' brew?"

Purple certainly felt warm and cozy here - the Apples were a very welcoming sort, and she felt quite comfortable with them. Familiar, even. She took up her long-handled camping utensils and set to flipping the eggs, then pierced a few black beetroot puddings on skewers and propped those up over the fire to crisp up a bit, before drawing out her loaf of bread and cutting some nice thick slices to toast - breakfast was almost done!

​

[SunsetSombra]

A pleasant greeting from Purple Haze attracts Macs attention, and a small chuckle escapes from the apple stallion as he returns the gesture with a quick nod as he surveys the weather briefly. " Looks like s'gonna be a good day ahead, eh? " he comments, settling down nearby. The smell of the food was certainly starting to appeal to a hungry Macintosh, and thus he starts taking the time to contemplate the choices of food available...which, since both sides of each family had packed with a rich assortment of tasty goods that were both tantalising when served normally, and even better when given a little roasting over an open camp-fire.

 

Still, it was probably worth considering a dip sooner or later to wake himself up fully too - afterall, with the weather being as pleasant as it was, there was no denying that the water would be relatively warm for a pony to take a nice relaxing swim in. Of course, he could probably hold off until later on in the day for the swim...afterall, there was no good to come from eating before taking any big leisurely dips. 

 

For the immediate moment, Big Mac just decides to relax in the dry side of things, make a light something to eat in a little while and then figure out a better plan to carry out later in the day!

[SteelEagle]

 

Apple Bloom yawned the yawn of ages. She was awake but her body was trying to fight off that assertion mightily, every little motion betraying her belief. She scratched her rear to get the tiny bed-itches finished up as she went ahead and followed Purple Haze's order-demand-plea and sat down, the warmth of the cooking comforting her as she allowed a contented smile to arch on her face. Now this was the life! Apple Bloom loved her camping expeditions but breakfast with Applejack, as amazing as it was, took only a few forms. Now this was different! So much different! She couldn't even smell what was being cooked, identifying it was just beyond. And frying up some hash? That sounded yummy! Wait, what the hay was hash? Was it some sort of Fet Loch delicacy? It sounded like grits.

“Fryin' up some...hash? What the hay is a hash?” Apple Bloom asked, eyebrows arched aggressively. If it was any good she'd like to see if she could get Applejack to get some. Well, who was Apple Bloom kidding? Of course it would be good. Purple Haze would need to surprise Abby someday by failing to cook something awesome. Applejack was still the very best cook in all of Equestria but if Apple Bloom wanted to take a trip on the wild side she'd contact a friend with an accent as exotic as any from the over-sea lands like Saddle Arabia. Maybe she'd open a restaurant one day and all the menu items would be written in that accent and Purple would have to hire ponies to walk around and explain all the words. It would be an education experience! Ohh, maybe she could hire them out for schools! That'd be fun.

Apple Bloom was hungry.
Big Mac was all about now. Apple Bloom got back up, went over to her big bro, and slide in under one of his massive legs and pushed her way into his grip. Now this was warm! He was so big and warm he was extra cuddly. “Ah slept real well, Biggy. Y'all didn't even snore like a train station this time!” She prodded, tittering for a second before giving him a big ol' kiss on the cheek. Applejack and Carrot came back, both of 'em wet enough to start some sort of slipping and sliding fun times game. Could they actually make something like that? It'd be fun. “Howdy! Y'all look wet. Wanna warm up next ta Purple's cookin'? It'll cook the scent of whatever it is right inta ya!” Abby laughed again. She was a real hoot. “Ah got lots of good sleep. How 'bout you, Purple? Yer as easy ta sleep 'round as Winona, super easy. AJ, Mister Fields, how 'bout you two?”

[Hippo]

Carrot looked suave. Hilariously suave. Applejack had to try not to giggle. She was glad he had a sense of humor, especially in the morning. Hard to camp with Applejack if you were a pony who took several hours to come to regular energy levels. Applejack pulled herself out of the pond after a couple submerges. She then shook herself dry.

"I don't know what we should do today. I always am up for something. Usually on camping trips I let the younger ones decide since I enjoy almost anything my little sister wants to do. If I decide, there'sa chance little sis will complain of bordom, heheh."

Applejack made her way back towards the fire pit and started to smell how amazing breakfast was coming along. "Wow, Purple. Morning, Apple Bloom. This smells amazing."

“Fryin' up some...hash? What the hay is a hash?”

"Tators. Right, Purple? What kind of hash is it?  Let me guess.  It's got carrots in it."  Applejack said smugly.  She was aware of the constant ingredient she put in her own treats and meals.  There was always that common fruit.  And every once and a while, a wise crack liked to point out how repetitve it could be.  Applejack got to do it this time, all in good fun, of course.

"AJ, Mister Fields, how 'bout you two?”

"Ah slept really well. Had a strange dream. Somethin' about wrestlin' a snake in the grass. And the snake had a wierd-shaped head. And when I caught it, I ate a cake made of asparagus. Strange. So Apple Bloom, I think you and Purple should decide what kind of activities we do today. We have lots of things we could do, we brought lots of games and equipment to go hiking or something. What would you girls like to do?" Applejack lounged on a log, breathing deep the fresh country air.​
 

[brianblackberry]

Carrot Fields was really enjoying the pond, it was cool and refreshing and easily made him fully awake, he didn't want to leave though, he was enjoying the pleasant view far too much.  There was just something magical about a mare with her mane all soaking wet, and he couldn’t keep his eyes off of Applejack she exited the cool waters, even she dried herself off the old fashioned way.

 

At least he wasn’t dumbstruck enough not to hear her response to his question, and it was a good idea.  Usually when he and Purple Haze went camping he usually decided what they were going to do, although he did listen to her input; it worked out usually as they had similar interests, save for the astronomy part.  Whenever Carrot star gazed, Purple slept; he tried including her when she was younger but it became quickly apparent she didn’t share his fascination with the stars, dismissing it as an “egghead” pursuit not worth the time of a hip, sporty filly such as herself.  As he already got in one night of star viewing, and better yet, with Applejack, he couldn’t see the harm in letting the fillies make the decisions on what the rest of the weekend entails.  “Ah suppose ye ur reit, Purple aye has several things she wants tae dae oan a trip, an' does fin' some of mah ideas borin' an' ‘fur auld ponies’. Ah shoods lit 'er tak' th' lead; she’s easily auld enough, e'en if Ah don’t loch tae admit it sometimes.”

 

As they approached the camp Applejack may have guessed right about one of the ingredients in Purple’s hash browns but he knew it was a lot more complex than that, “Weel sure, but thes is Purple Haze we ur talkin' abit, filly cook extraordinaire! it isn’t jist carrots, it is mostly tatties, but troost me, she puts in aw these fancy herbs an' spices 'at gie them thes unique flavur!”  Carrot only knew the basics about what his sister did when it came to anything she made, but she was still his sister, so he had to defend her cooking honor, even if it was just a friendly wise-crack, besides her food was always amazing, well almost, there have been a few bad experiments.

 

Applejack spilled the beans on her and Carrot’s impromptu agreement to let Abby and Purple run the show, but what really caught the ruddy maned stallion attention was her answer to Abby’s question about how she slept.  Carrot quickly trotted by, trying in vain not to be beat red as he went into the tent to retrieve, well whatever needed retrieving, and hoping the fillies would only care about the fact they get to choose what to do next.

[Bramble Rose]

 

Purple Haze nodded cordially to Big Mac's greeting.  "aaaaaayup," she agreed with a contented little grin, her highlands twang shifting his normal response.  Apple Bloom's question, though, just left her gaping in disbelief.

"What's a hash?  What's a hash?!!?  Th' most contentin', belly-warmin', most classic of fryups, simplest of bases wi' endless variations, each family hae their own recipe, and ye've ne'er had a bite?"  Purple reached out, slipped one hoof round Apple Bloom's shoulders, and drew her close for a tight hug.  "Ye poor, poor thing.  Dinnae worry, Oi'm here.  Oi'll take care of it."

Of course, Applejack had a more informative answer, along with a wholly too personal account of her last night's sleep.  Purple gave Applejack an incredibly flat expression, then decided not to comment on the dream, focusing instead on her friendly teasing about the food.  "Well, sun above, Applejack.  Yer wee cookin' skills hae improved tae th' point ye kin identify carrots?  Ye're daen' a'ight."  Purple grinned as she teased right back at Applejack.

She grinned as her big brae defended her cooking, too, and added in, "Aye, 'es a'ight theah.  Oi also hae some beetroot an' onions innere.  Back home, at'd be allae ye'd gie, but Oi've a bit a spices innere, too.  Some dried garlic, an' some paprika, but outta respect for ye, Oi cut out th' spicy peppers.  Jes' used a pinch a' chili t'add flavor."

With that, she broke out the camp gear and scooped the porceline pot out of the coals.  She scooped out a nice big scoopful of the crisp-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside vegetable hash onto each plate, then laid one egg, over-easy, on top of the hash.  She gave each pony one of the black beetroot puddings, a few slices of fried tomato, and a nice slice of toast.  That pretty much cleared out all of the food she'd made, so she hoped it was enough!  "Dig in, everypony!"

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[SunsetSombra]

Mac wasn't bothered at all by AB's usual snugglings - she was an affectionate l'il sister and he couldn't help but smile slightly whenever she felt compelled to take a little cuddling liberty here or there...

Heck, t'was what big brothers were for and Mac wasn't gonna deny Bloom her morning camping snuggle ritual, Eeeeenopel!

 

Seemed as though the rest of the camp was stirring much as he had when the smell of food became impossible to resist - and considering the vast array of freshly cooked grub available, he could hardly blame 'em for wanting to get up quickly and grabbing a bite or two before all the good stuff was gone...but at least it was ALL good stuff, and there was seemingly plenty enough of it to take care of the morning needs before lunch became a necessary element later on in the day. And considering how ready and raring to go everypony seemed to be at the current moment, there was no way today was gonna be a quiet one...especially if AJ had plans to let AB be the particular decider for things to be doin' this early on!

 

Macintosh helped himself to some foods and shot a quick glance over at his sister, a playful smirk on his muzzle - time to test the waters with a little brotherly wit.

" Sounds like ya slept well enough then... " he pauses and gives a quick chuckle. " But ah guess thats what sharin' a snug tent can do for folks! "

[SteelEagle]

 

Apple Bloom was engulfed in Purple's energetic and overwhelming pity hug of doom, ensconced in her newfound friend's warm pelt. She felt like struggling away but it was over almost as soon as it began, Apple Bloom freed from the clutches of her weird talking friend. Okay, so Applejack knew what hash was, but it was never called hash when she had it. Taters was what they called it and boy howdy did she love herself some taters. Or hash as she'd call it now for the benefit of Purple. The idea of taters and carrots wasn't entirely too displeasing either- taters could be eaten any old time and carrots had their place, she supposed. Of course that wasn't all they'd have. As much as Purple was in charge of the eating and burpin' that followed a good eating, Apple Bloom was gonna live up to the first half of her name. You couldn't keep a good apple down or out of a good pony's mouth, so the saying went.

“Well, if its some taters and carrots than sign me up!” Apple Bloom replied excitedly as the food was hooved out. It smelled super yummy! Purple really could cook up some nice, err, hash. Apple Bloom pulled out some delicious apples and hooved them out herself. “Hash goes great with apples. Well, everything does. Has everything ya need ta wake up strong an' healthy in the mornin'!” She bellowed out excitedly as she dug into her meal viciously, not allowing any of it to savor as she attacked it. Everything about this was delicious and Purple sure knew how to make a nice and filling breakfast. Sure it wasn't a good idea to follow this all up with some heavy hiking but that'd be a nice test for the new pair of camping ponies to deal with. After listening to Applejack's weird dissertation on how she slept, Apple Bloom went ahead and started thinking about what they could do.

“Thish ish real good Purple!” She said through a full mouth, “as for what we do, Ah dunno- so many things! Ah'd like a nice, good long hike and then when we make camp we can play some games!”

[Hippo]

The way bother Macintosh responded to Applejack's sharing of her good night's sleep prompted Applejack to give him back a menacing look only a faithful loving sister could give. "You know, Big Mac, if what you're saying is you didn't sleep well last night because you were all alone in your tent, we could always asked Purple and Apple Bloom to share a tent with you tonight." She said it smugly, wondering if the first response about be a plea from Macintosh, or a willingness to participate in annoying the lonely stallion from one or both the girls.

With Apple Bloom, Applejack could see the apple seed sown in her blossoming, but she couldn't help at how it might have been misguided. For fear of Purple getting offended that she insisted on introducing apples as part of the well-made breakfast, she spoke up. "Well, now, I think Purple's hash is good on it's own. She wouldn't make something for us to get energy for the day if it wasn't a complete meal," and she added under her breath, "especially since it's not as hot as last time. Dear Celestia have mercy."

"Hiking huh? Wait, you want to hike and camp somewhere else? I thought we were gonna camp here for the whole weekend?" She opened it to everypony. "What do you think, ya'll? Should we pack up and move or make a round trip hike? Or any other ideas?"

​
 

[brianblackberry]

Carrot Fields was glad everypony was enjoying the breakfast Purple had made, cooking being such a pride and joy for the young filly.  “Breakfasts are nae meant tae be spicy – but if ye like, we kin make an exception for ye!  Woud nae want tae be too mild for yer tastes!”  He was teasing of course, complete with playful smile, the Apples, like most Ponyvillians, weren’t used to the level of spices that was common in the carrot family dishes Purple had learned from the O’Carrot Corral side of the family.

 

He did have an idea that perhaps would make the new experience of a breakfast hash being more familiar to Applebloom, that sounded good in general.   “Well, now, Oi cannae think but applesauce’d go well on hash – but ye’d have tae ask Purple bout that, she’s th’ chef in our family.  But Oi can’t help but fancy that apples n’ carrots hie on well t’gether.”

 

Of course there was still the main unresolved question, what to do with the rest of the day.  He wanted Abby and Purple to take the lead on that front but neither filly really had ideas, so he figure he could help them along by offering a few suggestions and seeing which ones took with the young pair.  “As fer th’ rest of th’ day, we dinnae really need tae move th’ camp tae go hikin’ and explorin’.  We jes’ come back afore it gets dark.  Oi ken help but think wot goin’ ramblin’ round th’ woods wi’ye sounds a lot more fun then th’ ol’ drills Oi used tae do on maneuvers back in th’ REA.  Though we walk plenty when we’re on th’ farm – we could allays hie on over tae th’ lake an’ take a bit of a dip fer th’ rest of the day, aye?  We could laze a mite an’ jes watch th’ clouds... or, jes a glimmer – we could put taegether a scavenger hunt!  A mite of a contest, ye know?  A few items tae test our outdoorsponyship.”

[Bramble Rose]

 

Purple ate quietly, enjoying the looks on everypony's faces as they enjoyed her simple breakfast, a satisfied, contented expression on her own face.  This is what her cutie mark was about - bringing ponies together through food.  The way ponies bonded over a meal.  No matter how busy the day, ponies would settle down together for breakfast and dinner, having a pause in their busy day to reunite with the ponies important to them.  That, combined with an artist's pleasure in ponies appreciating her art ...

"Aye, Oi think we should keep camp here, Oi fancy this lake, don't Oi?  But Oi like th' idea of a hike just fine.  Oi think we should let brekky set a bit, then maybe hike on up tae that point up there," she said, pointing upslope to a peak not far away.  "Get a lovely view in, dinnit?  An' while we're hikin'..."  She grined excitedly.  "Oi dinnae see any tae nae get a bit of a contest in - Oi loik that scavenger idea!  But nae fair tae th' carrots fer nae bein' familiar wi' th' area... so we should hae teams!  Applejack an' me Big Brae vs. Apple Bloom, Big Mac, an' meself!  First one tae the peak with the scavenger tasks completed are th' winners!"
 

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