It's taken me a while, but this is a special, early Christmas present for all of the readers who requested an epilogue/ sequel to the story. Just an epilogue for now, but perhaps in the future, we can see about a sequel. My writing time is severely limited right now, but I'll ponder the idea!

I've enjoyed going back and reading your reviews. Thanks so much! I hope you enjoy this addition to the story...and the happiest of holidays to everyone!

Epilogue - Changes

" 'Ora! 'Ora! Wait me!" The toddler's plaintive voice called to his older sister as she raced down the steps from the deck and across the grass. The early morning dew was still on the grass and the girl's bare feet made imprints on the wet grass. Leorah stopped in her tracks and turned to watch her little brother as he made his way slowly down the same stairs. One pudgy hand held steadily to the railing and the other flailed about in thin air as he carefully lifted his pajama-clad feet from one step to the next. The eight year old girl heaved a sigh of impatience, for she was eager to get down to the dock and see if her father had caught anything that morning. Although she loved Jake with her whole heart, sometimes she wished he wasn't quite so…attached to her. But then, when he looked up at her and smiled, saying, "I is coming!" Leorah's irritation quickly vanished and she smiled.

An excited yapping turned her attention from her little brother to the bundle of golden fur charging toward her. Smiling widely, Leorah dropped to her knees and waited for the puppy to reach her. The golden retriever, named Beast in accompaniment to Belle the cat, pranced and bounced his way up the hill toward the children that he had quickly come to love. He practically threw himself into Leorah's waiting arms, and the child laughed out loud as she fell backwards on to the grass, holding the wiggling, squirming puppy as he licked her face.

Jack had turned from his early morning fishing as soon as he had heard Jake calling to his sister, and now he stood watching his daughter with a wide grin of amusement on his face. Leorah loved animals of all kinds, and had been thrilled beyond belief when he had brought the pup home a few weeks ago. It had been a gift from Ted Masterson, the rancher who had fueled Leorah's love of horses by introducing her to a Shetland pony named Shep. And although Sam hadn't been nearly as thrilled as her daughter, she had not overly objected to the newest addition to their family. Jack smiled, remembering his wife's words of warning about who would be in the doghouse should the little furball ruin their new rug.

His grin widened as he watched his son toddle after his big sister. The little boy absolutely adored Leorah, and would follow her to the ends of the earth if allowed to. And she was inordinately patient with him; a trait that made both Jack and Sam very proud. Jake had been beside himself with misery when Leorah had entered the second grade last fall. Even though he had only been just past 16 months of age, the little boy had strained to follow Leorah into school when they had dropped her off that first day. Leorah had put her new pink backpack on the ground, gotten down on her knees, and hugged the sad little boy tightly. "I will be back, soon Jake. Don't cry. Please?" And he had stopped, but still his eyes had followed his sister as she disappeared into the red brick building. Jack shook his head in remembrance, then put down his fishing rod to go and greet his children.

Little Jake had finally reached the bottom step and made his way across the wet grass toward his sister with quiet determination. The little boy's brown hair ruffled in the light summer morning breeze and his blue eyes were bright with anticipation. Not only was he determined to get to his sister, he also wanted to see the fuzzy puppy.

When Jake was within fifteen feet, the puppy's attention was diverted from the little girl who was hugging him tightly to the small boy closing in on them. He yipped happily, then scrambled from Leorah's arms and ran toward the little boy. Jake's eyes widened slightly in alarm as the puppy charged toward him. Although he too loved the puppy that he called "Beat", Jake was a bit more wary of the animal's exuberance than his sister was.

Sensing her little brother's apprehension, Leorah scrambled to her knees and called out sharply, "Beast! No!"

Confused by the tone in the child's voice, the puppy tried to turn back but his momentum carried him forward, causing him to tumble head over heels until he came to a stop at Jake's feet. Both animal and child seemed stunned by the acrobatic display – Jake's mouth wide open in surprise and Beast's tongue lolling to the side and chest heaving. Leorah quickly got to her feet and ran over to both of them. She fell to her knees in front of Jake, quickly checking to make sure that her baby brother was all right. Jake's eyes met hers. He blinked once, then began to clap his hands in glee. "Do 'gain, 'Ora!" he shouted with delight.

Jack, who had witnessed the entire episode and been right on Leorah's heels as the puppy charged toward Jake, began to laugh out loud. As soon as he reached them, he bent and picked up his son, tossing him lightly into the air. "I don't think Beast is too eager to try that again, sport. One tumble a day is enough for that pup." Jack settled the little boy onto his hip then turned and smiled down at Leorah. "I think it's about time we started training this Beast. What do you think, princess?"

Leorah smiled up at him, then leaned over to rub the puppy's tummy. "I think mommy would like that a lot, daddy." The little girl wrinkled her nose slightly. "I don't think mommy likes Beast as much as we do. She said he's too unculti…unculti…"

"Uncultivated?" Jack grinned helpfully.

"Yeah. What's that mean?" Leorah cocked her head and looked up at her father.

Jack slowly lowered himself to the ground, placing Jake securely in his lap. "It means wild. Kind of how you and brother get sometimes," he smiled warmly and pulled Leorah close with his other arm. "Your mom's more of a cat person, sweetheart. But she'll come around," he stated with confidence.

As soon as the three of them were settled on the ground, Beast rolled to his feet and came prancing over, his tumble a distant memory. He stood on Jack's leg, eyed little Jake closely, then gave the little boy a big wet kiss on the cheek. Jake put up his hands to ward off another wet attack, but giggled none the less. "No Beat. No!" he exclaimed with ever loudening giggles.

"I think Beast wants to give you a bath, little man!" Jack chuckled as he held the pup back with one hand.

Jake looked back at his father. His giggles ceased as he adamantly stated, "No bath!" Jack and Leorah looked at each other and started laughing, for both knew of the little boy's strong dislike of baths.

Jack flopped onto his back, raising Jake high above his head. "No bath! What do mean no bath!" He jiggled the little boy until he startled to chortle with glee. "Everyone needs a bath now and then, little man. Even you!" The child's laughter wound up the puppy, who began to jump around them with excitement. Leorah grabbed the puppy to her chest and laid back on the grass, laughing with her father and her brother as all four of them enjoyed an early morning romp in the grass.

Sam's appearance on the front deck went unnoticed, and she settled herself on the top step to watch their antics with a soft smile. She cradled a mug of coffee in her hands as she observed her family. Sometimes, she couldn't believe how lucky she was. Not only had she married a man she truly loved; he was also her very best friend. He knew and understood things about her that no one else did. And he didn't judge her for those things, just as she didn't judge him. Sam's smile widened as Jake and Leorah's giggles of delight rose through the air.

As she sat there, her mind drifted back to the time that Leorah had come to them, almost three years ago now. Although she had endured things most adults never had to, the child from Tarona had displayed a resiliency that Sam found remarkable. The quiet, frightened little girl had blossomed into a curious, inquisitive, sensitive eight year old. The chestnut hair, lightened by her days in the sun, hung in curls well past her shoulder blades. Her deep green eyes sparkled with life and the round softness of early childhood was beginning to give way to the lithesome frame of her approaching preteen years. Leorah had grown several inches in the last two years and she seemed to be acquiring a willowy grace that foretold her future beauty…something that caused Jack no end of sleepless nights. Sam quickly swiped at the unexpected tears that had formed in her eyes and smiled as she recalled how upset her husband had become when a certain little boy from Leorah's class had written the then seven year old a love note. She'd had to bodily restrain him from calling the child's parents, but still laughed whenever she thought of his verbal tirade: "They're only seven years old, for cryin' out loud! What the hell is he doing writing a love letter! I couldn't even write at that age!" Thankfully, Leorah hadn't heard a word of it, for she had developed a fondness for the young man in question…something Sam had wisely kept from Jack.

As Jake let out a particularly loud squeal of delight, Sam's thoughts turned toward her son. She smiled fondly as she looked at the toddler held high in his father's arms. The child adored each and every moment spent with his father and big sister and it showed in his sparkling blue eyes and wide grin. Sam's smile turned to chuckles as Jake gave a deep belly laugh when Jack blew a raspberry on his bared tummy. Her laughter caught Jack's attention and he turned toward her, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

"What are you doing way over there?" he called to her with a mock frown. "I could use some reinforcements here."

She smiled back. "You like you're doing just fine, dear."

The puppy, distracted by the new voice, yapped once then raced over on unsteady legs to greet his mistress. His departure brought Jack and Leorah to their feet. Swooping Jake into the air, Jack made his way across the lawn toward the deck; Leorah following close behind.

"Mama!" Jake greeted with open arms, as if he hadn't seen his mother in five days instead of five minutes.

Jack passed him off to Sam, then sank onto the step beside her, pushing the energetic pup aside with his foot. He heaved a sigh of relief. "Man, these early morning exercise sessions sure can wear a body out."

Sam kissed Jake on the cheek before turning to Jack with a smile. "You wouldn't have it any other way, and you know it."

Jack grinned back, then pulled Sam close for a quick kiss. "So, what's on the agenda for today?" he asked as he relaxed back onto his elbows. "Fishing?" He waggled his eyebrows at her suggestively. Sam just snorted, knowing that his comment held a meaning other than baiting hooks and waiting for non-existent fish to bite.

Leorah interrupted the moment by climbing onto Jack's lap. "We can't go fishing, daddy, remember? Teal'c, Daniel and Marjie are coming this afternoon. We have to go to town and buy some stuff for the campfire. You promised that we could make S'mores!"

Jack tweaked her on the nose. "So I did, princess. But seeing as it's only," he looked at his watch, "0800, I think we have time to at least eat some breakfast, don't you?"

Leorah giggled, then stood up. "Ok daddy. But can I feed Beast first? He's hungry too."

"OK, kiddo. But just one cup."

"OK, daddy." She held out her arms for her brother. "Come on, Jake. You can help me give Beast some breakfast, 'kay?"

The little boy went willingly into his sister's arms. Leorah set him on the ground and took his hand. "Me feed Beat!" he demanded. Leorah sent her mother a quick look of resignation before she led him back to the kennel. Jack and Sam both smiled as they watched their children disappear around the corner of the cabin, the puppy following at their heels.

Jack turned to Sam and grinned mischievously. "Still upset about the puppy?"

Laughing, Sam shook her head. "No. He's good for them – especially Jake. But I sure hope he doesn't live up to his name," she added with a serious tone.

Jack laughed. "At least we didn't name him Puddles!"

Sam's nose crinkled. "God forbid."

Still laughing, Jack put an arm around his wife's shoulders and drew her close. "So," he stated after several minutes of comfortable silence.

"So," Sam replied quietly, leaning more heavily into his side.

"Happy?" Jack asked, tilting his head down slightly to look into her eyes.

Still resting her head on his shoulder, Sam tipped her face up to his. "Ecstatically. You?"

He grinned. "Ya sure, you betcha!" Sam giggled, then pressed her lips into his neck. Jack sighed happily. "Now that's what I call sweet," he muttered quietly.

They remained contentedly snuggled for a few more moments, listening to the happy sounds of their children just on the other side of the cabin. Sam slowly pulled back and looked up at Jack. "Thank you," she told him softly. When he raised questioning brows to her, she continued. "For all of this." She waved a hand in front of her, indicating the cabin. "For bringing us on a much needed vacation; for being such a terrific father; but mostly, for making me so happy these past few years," she finished quietly.

Jack looked deeply into her eyes and smiled. "Right back 'attcha," he replied quietly. His smile was returned before Sam once more snuggled into his side. Jack pulled her close, wrapping both arms around her, and let his mind wander for a few moments. She was right – it was a much needed and much deserved vacation. The fight with the Ori had been long and arduous – finally coming to a conclusion a few short weeks ago when a device engineered through the surreal take-over of Daniel's mind by Merlin rendered the Ori powerless. Several more weeks of uncertainty and red tape had followed before they finally felt that they could breathe easy once more.

And now Jack was ready to call it quits. He had done his part – had in fact gone well above and beyond the call of duty. He had saved Earth countless times, been instrumental in bringing several alien races to their heels, and seen too many people die. He was ready to devote himself to devoting his energies to his wife and the raising of his children. He had told Sam as much just before they had left for this vacation. Although initially reluctant to see him leave the SGC, Sam understood his desire for a change; she herself felt the tug of motherhood vying strongly with the responsibilities of her job. So Sam had willingly given him her blessing, something that eased Jack's feelings of guilt no end.

He had informed the President of his decision the day they left for their three week stay in northern Minnesota. To say that the President was dismayed would be an understatement. But he too realized how much the General had given, not only for his country, but also for his planet, and he would not hold him back. He wouldn't quite let him go though…plans were already in the works to retain General O'Neill as a civilian consultant, but Jack didn't know that yet. Right now, he was a man enjoying his well-deserved vacation with his family at his beloved lake retreat.

As if she could read his mind, Sam interrupted his thoughts. "Are you really sure you want to do this, Jack? Give up everything?" She pulled away and sat up, looking deeply into his eyes in order to discern the truth of his words.

Jack smiled gently at her before cupping her chin in his hand. "I've already given up more than enough, Sam. I just want to enjoy us…and our family. Be there for the kids and watch them grow. Not worry that the next man or woman I send through that gate won't come back," he stated softly. Their gazes locked for several moments, exchanging a wealth of words in only a glance.

Then, Sam slowly grinned. "You won't be bored? No politicians to help keep your razor sharp wit intact? No green recruits locking down the gate off-world? No scientists presenting endless, fascinating reports about alien flora and fauna?"

Jack winced at her words. "Not in this lifetime, babe. Besides," he added with grin. "I have about three years worth of Simpson episodes to catch up on. Can't be bored with that!"

Sam laughed out loud, glad that the mood had lightened. "No, I guess not." Then she leaned forward and kissed him soundly on the lips.

The moment was short-lived. "Me feed Beat!" came an excited voice as the children rounded the corner.

Jack and Sam pulled apart and smiled as Leorah and Jake came toward them. When they reached the lower step, Jack pulled the little boy onto his lap. "Good for you, little man!" Then he frowned as he noticed a smattering of brown crumbs in the corner of the little boy's mouth. Jack gave Leorah an expectant look.

The eight year old shrugged her shoulders and gave her parents a slightly sheepish look. "He was too fast…he wanted to see what the puppy chow tasted like."

As if confirming his sister's words, Jake stated, "Me hungwy!"

Jack and Sam shared another laugh before they both rose to their feet. "Well, I think we'd better make some breakfast then, shouldn't we?" He gently poked the little boy's stomach. "And no more puppy food for you, little man. You eat people food, got it?"

"Kay," Jake grinned at his daddy. Jack laughed, then turned and walked up the steps and into the cabin, Jake babbling happily in his arms.

Sam smiled gently at Leorah and put her arm around her shoulders as she led her up the steps. "Don't worry, sweetheart. He tried the cat food too." The sound of his wife and daughter laughing behind him made Jack grin. Yep. He was more than ready to try something new.

---------

Later that afternoon, a van pulled into the gravel drive at the back of the cabin. Leorah was at the van's passenger door before it opened, a wide grin of welcome on her face. "Teal'c!" she shouted with glee as he opened the door, then flung herself into his waiting arms.

Teal'c smiled at his favorite niece. "I am most pleased to see you again, Leorah. It has been several months since we have last been in each other's company. I trust you and your brother are well."

Leorah grinned, not at all put off by the large man's formal manner. "Jake ate puppy food this morning."

Teal'c's nose wrinkled slightly. "That does not sound appealing."

"Probably no worse than some of the things we ate off world," Daniel chimed in as he came around the vehicle.

"Hi, Daniel!" Leorah's excited voice welcomed him. Teal's set the child on her feet and she raced over to her other Uncle, who lifted her into a tight hug.

"Hello yourself, princess. Staying out of trouble?" he asked with a wink.

"Except when she sets my bait free," Jack interrupted as he walked up to them, a mock frown on his face. "Let all the minnows go, just like that," he snapped his fingers for emphasis.

"Daddy," Leorah frowned. "You wasn't going to catch any fish anyway."

Jack just snorted at her comment, then turned to welcome Teal'c. "It's good to see you, T."

"And you as well, O'Neill. You appear most content residing in your rustic domain."

Jack laughed. "That I am, T. That I am."

Teal'c smiled, then looked toward the cabin. "What of Samantha and Jacob Ryan? I trust they are well?" A note of concern crept into the man's voice and Daniel too looked at Jack expectantly.

Jack waved their concern aside. "They're great. Sam's just putting Jake down for a nap. He's a bear if he doesn't get his afternoon catnap."

Daniel grinned. "Ah. Like father like son, no doubt."

Jack narrowed his eyes at Daniel. "Watch it, Danny. I have no problem with tossing you head first into the lake." Daniel just laughed and Teal'c smiled.

Leorah looked up at Daniel. "Don't worry, Daniel. Daddy won't really do that. 'Sides, the water's pretty warm." She cocked her head up at him. "Can you really stay until Monday? You and Marjie can have my room and Teal'c can share with Jake. Daddy said I could sleep in the new 'dition that was put on in the spring time." She bounced up and down on her toes, eager to sleep out in the three-season porch that Jack had contracted out last fall. With the four of them coming up to the cabin on a regular basis now, he felt they could use a little extra room.

Daniel grinned down at the excited child. "We're here for the next three days, sweetie. As long as the bugs don't eat us alive," he winked at her.

Turning back to the van, Daniel opened the back door and helped a very pregnant Marjie from the softness of the back seats. Leorah's eyes widened once she emerged from the vehicle. "Wow! Your tummy is huge, Marjie!" she stated with childish directness.

Sam, who had just crossed the yard after putting Jake down, came up behind her daughter and winced at the comment. She shot Marjie a look of apology. Marjie laughed as she straightened up. "Don't worry, Sam. I think I'm huge too!" She put her hands on her large belly. "And still another month to go!"

"Ya harboring twins in there, doc?" Jack teased before folding the small, dark haired woman into a hug.

"Bite your tongue," she replied with affection. Although initially leery of the rather intimidating man before her, Marjie had come to appreciate his sharp wit and rather unconventional way of doing things. That he was her husband's closest friend was an added bonus. Once they got engaged, Jack began to treat her like one of the family…a fact that overjoyed her no end. For Marjie had grown up the only child of a single mother and now that her mother had passed away, this was the only family she had. She rubbed her belly again, thankful that her child would have a large extended family to grow up with.

As if sensing her thoughts, Jack pulled back and patted her stomach gently. "We can't wait until this little one joins the family, Marjie." Then he looked over at Daniel and added cheekily, "Ya done good, Danny. Real good."

"Uh, thanks Jack," Daniel said, his face slightly flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and pride.

Sam rolled her eyes from behind Jack's back, but gave her friends a grin none-the less. After the initial welcomes had commenced, the group made their way to the cabin. Leorah skipped happily along, her small hand engulfed in Teal'c's larger one. Teal'c smiled down at her; the love he held for the child apparent by the light shining in his eyes. Jack and Sam shared a knowing smile. It was so good to have their friends with them once again, even if they were going to spoil their kids rotten this weekend!

They spent the next three days just enjoying being together again. They ate, talked, had the requisite bonfire with s'mores, and even attempted to get Daniel into the water to swim. He wasn't overly fond of swimming, not since that incident with Nem many years ago. But he was a good sport, and got into the water with Leorah and Jake, splashing around in the shallow end and dutifully watching as Leorah showed him her swimming skills.

The "boys" went fishing the afternoon before Daniel, Teal'c, and Marjie would depart. Both Teal'c and Daniel were a bit on the reluctant side, but willing participants none the less. Jack was the only one who put a line into the water, however…and caught nothing. But the time was not wasted, for they spent almost three hours just enjoying each other's company in a relaxed atmosphere.

Daniel pressed Jack on the retirement issue. "Jack, there's still so much out there and the SGC needs you. Who else will go to bat for the cultural and scientific explorations that are important to our future? Most of the military have a one track mind…weapons."

Jack looked at Daniel for a long moment, before quietly stating, "You know that you are very highly regarded by the Joint Chief's, as well as by the President, Danny. You won't run into any obstacles, believe me." He paused before adding quietly, "I just want to spend time with my family, Daniel. I think it's about time." And seeing the resolve in his eyes, Daniel nodded and let it go at that.

Teal'c broke the slightly somber moment by stating. "Time spent with loved ones is indeed time well spent."

Jack and Daniel glanced back at each other and simultaneously stated, "Deep." All three of them laughed so loudly that their voices reverberated across the lake, causing Sam and Marjie, who were sitting on the deck watching the children play with Beast, to smile with affectionate amusement.

Back on the boat, Daniel turned his attention to Teal'c. "What about you, Teal'c? What are you going to do now that the Ori are no longer a threat?"

"I too wish to spend time with my family, Daniel Jackson. Kar'yn is soon to give birth to my first grandchild," he stated proudly. "It is most fortunate that I will be present for this occasion, as the presence of a grandparent at a child's birth is believed to ensure wisdom among Jaffa children."

Jack's eyebrows rose with surprise. "Ry'ac is going to be a father? Holy crap. Seems like he was just a 13 year old kid."

Teal'c's eyebrow rose in commiseration. "Indeed."

"So, no plans in the works for you and Ish'ta? Making babies seems to be the going thing here." Jack shot a grin at Daniel, causing the younger man to blush.

"I have no desire to procreate further, O'Neill," was Teal'c's succinct reply.

The conversation soon returned to light bantering, and soon, Jack pulled in his line and got ready to head back to shore. Daniel's voice stopped him. "Thanks, Jack."

Jack turned to look at Daniel, a puzzled frown on his face. "For what? Taking you fishing in a lake with no fish?"

Daniel gave Jack a slight smile. "No. For inviting us up here. I know you and Sam wanted time away with your family, but," he shrugged his shoulders. "It's been great…spending time together like this. After everything with the Ori, and now you're leaving…well, we won't get many more chances like this."

"For crying out loud, Daniel, I'm not moving to Antarctica," Jack scowled at the younger man, not enjoying the bent this conversation was taking. "Hell, I'll still be at the base occasionally. I'll probably have clearance for life," he grinned, then shrugged his shoulders. "Sam's not going anywhere, so I'm sure I'll have to drag her out of her lab for a meal now and again. Besides," he gave Daniel a pointed look. "You, Marjie and T are family. That's why you're here. Now quit with the sappiness and pull up the anchor. I've got some fish to fry!" Daniel smiled at his friend's rather typical response to anything emotional, then turned to do as he was bid.

Teal'c shot Jack a puzzled frown of his own. "I do not understand, O'Neill. How can you cook an aquatic animal when you have caught nothing?"

Jack gave him a cocky grin. "Anderson's Fish Market. Best fish north of the Mason-Dixon line!" Another loud burst of laughter carried across the water.

As their friends prepared to return to civilization the following day, there were mixed feelings all around. Although none of them knew that the SGC would not give up one Jack O'Neill easily, the feeling of impending change was heavy in the air. Sam hugged Daniel and Teal'c in turn, giving them both watery smiles. "Thanks for coming up, guys. I know this isn't your favorite place…"

"Hey!" Jack interrupted with a mock scowl.

Sam ignored him. "But I appreciate your coming up just the same."

Kissing her on the cheek, Teal'c replied, "It was well worth the sacrifice, Samantha." The twinkle in his eye told of his pleasure in visiting with his friends.

Leorah gave hugs and kisses good-bye, extracting a promise from Daniel and Marjie to let her come to the hospital when they had the baby. Jake was passed from one to the other and his little boy slobbery kisses were lovingly received. When he was placed in Teal'c's arms, the little boy patted the larger man's cheeks. "Bye-bye, T."

Teal'c smiled at the little boy. "Good-bye Jacob Ryan. I will see you again soon."

"Kay," was the child's response, accompanied by another wet kiss that made everyone laugh.

Handing Jake back to Sam, Teal'c turned to Jack and clasped his arm. "I thank you for this respite, O'Neill. My time spent here was most enjoyable."

"See. I told you it was great up here!" Jack grinned.

Teal'c nodded, then gave Jack a serious look. "You have given much for your world, O'Neill. I wish you joy and peace as you travel this new path in your life."

Slowly, Jack nodded his head. "Thanks, buddy." Teal'c bowed slightly, then released Jack's arm.

Turning to Daniel and Marjie, Jack smiled. "Thanks for coming up guys. I hope it wasn't too rough for you," he nodded to Marjie.

"Not at all, Jack. I had a great time. Really," she added when he shot her a doubtful look. "And I got a lot of questions answered about what I can expect in the next month or so," she rubbed her swollen belly and gave Sam a grateful look.

"Just remember," Sam stated. "Things don't always go according to plan."

"Danny can attest to that," Jack joked.

They shared another laugh, then Marjie hugged everyone before Daniel helped her into the car. Teal'c went around to the driver's side and got in. Daniel turned back to Jack. He was quiet for a moment, as if he didn't quite know what to say. Jack stepped forward and gave Daniel a quick hug. When he stepped back, he smiled. "You need anything, Daniel…you know where to find me. Hell, you'll probably be seeing more of me than you want."

Daniel understood what Jack was trying to tell him, and he smiled. "No doubt." The two friends shared a smile before Daniel gave Sam, Leorah and Jake one more hug, then got into the car. The family of four stood close together, Sam holding Jake and leaning against Jack while Leorah stood on his other side. They watched the van until it drove out of sight.

When it was gone, Leorah looked up at her father. "I'm going to miss them, daddy. It was fun with everyone up here. I just wished Cassie and Janet coulda come, too."

Jack ruffled the little girl's hair. "Yeah. Me too. But we'll see them soon, kiddo. All of them," he promised.

Leorah smiled. "Maybe next time, Cassie and Auntie Janet can each bring their boyfriends! That would be fun." The little girl cocked her head to the side. "And maybe I could ask Patrick to come, too!"

Jack frowned at Sam. "Patrick?"

Thinking of the author of the love note, Sam smiled, "I'll tell you later." Then she set a squirming Jake down.

The instant his feet hit the ground, the little boy was off and running toward his trucks that were parked in a small sand pile. "Come 'pway, 'Ora!" he yelled to his sister.

Leorah shot her parents a long- suffering look, then grinned and took off after her baby brother.

Sam leaned against Jack once more and sighed quietly. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close as they watched their children reach the sand pile and begin to push the sand around. "What's wrong?" he whispered in her ear.

Sam shrugged her shoulders. "Just thinking." She felt Jack smile against the back of her head.

"About?"

"The future...and how much things change." She nodded toward the children. "Look at them, Jack. It seems like just yesterday that we got married. Now Leorah is eight, and Jake is almost two. Teal'c is going back to Dakara soon…Daniel is going to be a father…"

Jack chuckled into her hair. "That is scary, isn't it?"

She nudged him with her arm. "Jack. He'll make a great dad."

Jack smiled. "Yeah. He will."

She sighed again. "And even though I support your decision 100 percent, not having you at the SGC…well, that's a big change that will take some getting used to."

He turned her in his arms so he could see her face. His eyes gazed into hers, his expression now serious. "I don't know what the future's going to hold, Sam. And yes, things change. Life'd be pretty dull for both of us if they didn't. But I know one thing that will never change, Sam. And that's how much I love you and those two Rugrats over there," he lifted his chin slightly, indicating the children who were contentedly playing. Then Jack paused for a moment as he collected his thoughts. "I want our kids to have a normal life, Sam. I don't want Leah to worry about one of her parents being left behind on another planet or, God forbid, killed like her grandmother was. I want to there to play catch with them, and help them with their homework. I wasn't there for Charlie," he said softly. "I missed so much. I can't do that again, Sam. I won't."

Sam's eyes filled with tears and she reached up and gently cupped his cheek. "I want everything you do, Jack. I didn't mean to make you feel guilty. It's just…well…I'll miss seeing you everyday."

Jack brushed away an errant tear and slowly smiled. "You planning on not coming home?"

She gave him an embarrassed smile. "You know what I meant." Then Sam cocked her head to the side. "But promise me something?"

"Anything," he replied.

"You'll come visit me every now and again at the mountain? Have lunch with me?"

"Hell ya! Especially when they're serving pumpkin pie. They make the best pumpkin pie," he stated wistfully.

Sam slugged his arm, and he laughed. "You are incorrigible, Jack O'Neill."

"You got that right," he replied before pulling her back into his arms for a long, lingering kiss.

It would turn out that Jack O'Neill was right…he didn't know what the future would bring. He didn't know that he would be back, working part-time at the SGC within six months as a major consultant in matters regarding both off-world diplomacy as well as tactical maneuvers. He didn't know that Daniel and Marjie would have two children within the next 14 months. He didn't know that, no matter how adamant he had been, Teal'c would once again become a father at the ripe old age of 150. He didn't know that Samantha Carter O'Neill would become a highly sought after science expert once the gate went public eight years down the road. He didn't know that, although they never really had a 'normal' childhood, his children would grow up happy, smart, secure in the love of their family, and very well adjusted.

But he was right about one thing – whatever changes came their way, he would love his wife with every fiber of his being until his dying days…as she would him.