"Bye bye Daddy!" Jake was waving madly at him, while Danny was checking out everything in the Control room. Sam was there as well, Kate in her arms. He gave a wave and a smile and this time, both of his sons waved back.

He shifted his feet again, anxious to get moving. If there was anything he hated doing, it was waiting around. They were still waiting for Sg-5 and two of the Teleurans, who were accompanying them to Gaia.

He hated the thought of leaving his family, although he knew they'd be fine, staying at Janet's. But he and Sam hadn't been apart since they ended up on Gaia, and he had never been away from his kids.

"You okay, Jack?" Daniel leaned over and asked softly.

"Just tryin' to get used to wearing a uniform again," he answered, with a grimace, as he shifted again..

"Mmm hmm," Daniel said, looking skeptical. "They'll be fine, you know."

Jack sighed and nodded. "I know – I've just never left them before."

Daniel laid his hand briefly on Jack's shoulder, offering silent sympathy. "So – what did you think of Amy?" he asked, deciding to change the subject.

"I think you're a lucky man Jackson," his friend told him. "She's perfect for you. Sweet, smart, a great sense of humor and she won't take any of your crap!"

"Did I not say that, O'Neill," Teal'c reminded him.

"I think you said she reminded you of me. And I would like to make very clear that I am not sweet!"

"Uh – I don't think anyone would accuse you of that," Daniel told him. "And I agree – I am lucky. When we're back from Gaia we should all go out together. I'd like you to get to know one another."

"Of course, Jackson. That'll be fun."

Daniel looked at him suspiciously, suddenly not sure whether his fiancé and Jack should have a chance to spend too much time together. He worried that the combination could be lethal – for him!

Just then the doors to the gate room opened and Sg-5 walked in, followed by the two Teleurans coming to see if Gaia would make them a suitable new home.

"Hey Castleman," Jack called. "Were you guys out getting a beauty treatment or something?"

"No Jack," his friend and fellow Colonel answered. "While Sg-1 was standing around pickin' your noses, we were actually helping the Teluerans get ready for the trip through the gate."

Jack regarded the Teleurans – who were simply dressed in homespun clothes – obviously their usual mode of dress. Other than small packs, the men didn't look any different than when he'd met them that morning.

"Mmm – I can see that that would take a long time," he commented.

Major Altman, Castleman's 2IC grinned. "Their elders couldn't decide who should come with us," he explained. "We just about had a fist fight!"

At that O'Neill noticed that the two aliens were looking rather smug. Clearly they'd won the fight.

"Okay – but if we want to get there anytime today I suggest we get moving." He looked up to see General Hammond watching them.

Hammond leaned forward and spoke into the mike. "God speed everyone."

"Thank you Sir," Jack gave a lazy salute and then one more wave to his family. He then motioned everyone through the gate.

"We have to do something to make the gate more accessible," muttered Jack as he climbed down the side of the cliff. At least they had a ladder this time.

"The General is sending a couple of teams of engineers through to make it easier to get to," Castleman told him.

Jack nodded. He knew the plan and was hopeful that by the time they got back things would be set up. Otherwise he didn't know how they were going to get all their things back.

Tweedledee and Tweedledum – the two Teluerans whose real names he couldn't remember – followed them closely as they headed out to the farm. So far they hadn't said much, instead they spent their time speaking softly to one another and looking closely at their potential new home.

"What do you think of them," Jack asked Daniel quietly, pointing to their two guests.

"The Teleurans? They seem like nice people," Daniel told him. "I think they're a bit overwhelmed with everything, but they've been quiet and cooperative."

"And the two with us?"

"Petreus and Zaphir?"

"That their names?"

"Yes," Daniel grinned. "They're two of their elders and they seem pretty smart. If this works out, then I think Gaia might be the perfect place for them."

"Yeah, I guess," Jack sighed. That caused Daniel to look at him curiously.

"You don't like the idea?"

"What?" Jack glanced at him. "Yeah – I think it's a good idea. It's just …"

"Just?"

"This was our home - where Sam and I got together, where our kids were born. We worked our asses off to survive and it's – hard – to think of someone else taking it over. But I know it's a good idea – it'll just take getting some used to."

"I understand," Daniel gently patted his back. "It must be strange for you guys. Maybe you can keep your house and use it as a vacation spot?"

"Right! And General Hammond would let us gate through whenever we want, just to visit our house! Somehow I don't know if the program would be too happy with that."

"You could be the official ambassador to the Teleurans."

"Sure – because there's so much we can learn from them. I somehow doubt they'll be a priority – not with their level of technology."

"Probably not," Daniel sighed. "Still – it was just an idea."

They spent the rest of the day walking towards the farm, finally arriving just before nightfall. Dixon and North were standing outside, waiting to greet them.

"How are things?" Jack asked, giving a quick glance around.

"Everything's great, Jack. The animals are doing well and we've enjoyed the peace and quiet. How are things back on Earth?"

"Good! Uh, we've brought two of the Teleurans to look things over and see if they might want to live here."

"That's a great idea. Want me to show them around?"

"I think that can wait until tomorrow. Right now we'll set up camp for everyone. I'm just going to go see the animals."

"Missed them Jack?" Dixon grinned.

"Yeah, especially the goats!"

Jack walked around the property – checking in on the animals and simply enjoying the peace and quiet of the evening. He knew he was going to miss this, and felt a welling of sadness. He wished Sam was here with him and for a moment felt as though he wished they hadn't been found. But that only lasted a moment, as he watched Daniel walk towards him.

"You okay?" his friend asked.

He smiled gently. "Yes, I'm fine. Just – enjoying the evening. I'm gonna miss this place."

"I can see why. It's beautiful here."

"Yes, it is. It's also very isolated and there wouldn't be anything for the kids here, once they grew up."

"True," Daniel agreed.

"And none of our friends were here," Jack said softly.

"Also true," Daniel nodded.

"And diapers."

"Diapers?"

"Yeah – we had to wash them by hand here. Sam says that disposable diapers alone made going back worthwhile."

Daniel chuckled. "Well, I can say that we are all glad you're back," he said. "We – I missed you Jack."

"Thanks." Jack took a deep breath and took one more look around. "Think the Teleurans will like it here?"

"Yes," Daniel nodded. "From what I've heard from Patreus and Zaphir, they're both really excited. From what they've seen so far, they say it's perfect."

"Of course it is," Jack sighed again. "I'm glad, really. It will be nice to know that someone is enjoying the place. Let's get back – there is a lot to do tomorrow."

The next day Jack took the two Teleurans on an extensive tour of everything. They were both appreciative and yet their excitement was palpable. It made him feel a bit better to know they both loved Gaia.

"You have done an excellent job, Colonel O'Neill," Zaphir said as he looked out at the field of grain. "It is amazing what you and your wife accomplished together."

"Yeah, well she's pretty special and together we made a great team."

"That is obvious," Patreus told him. "We know this must be difficult for you," he went on to add, "but we would be extremely grateful to be able to call Gaia our new home. Zaphir and I believe it will be a perfect place for our people."

"I'm glad," Jack told him. "I couldn't think of anyone I'd rather have live here."

He received smiled from the two aliens for that, and they continued on the tour. What sealed the deal for Jack was the fact that the goats seemed to like the Teleurans. Part of him felt sad, but also relieved. He loved the damn things and wanted them to be happy – but knew he couldn't take them back with him to Earth.

That evening, as they all sat at dinner, the Teleurans announced that they thought Gaia was the perfect place for them. "We would like to begin moving as soon as possible," Zaphir informed them.

"We'll have to arrange to have supplies brought," Jack explained. "There won't be enough here for everyone."

"We understand. We will put the elderly and those with small children in the houses. The rest we will provide with tents. If your people can give us seeds and enough tools, we will begin planting immediately."

"Of course. I know General Hammond will make sure you have what you need."

The two Teleurans looked at one another and then turned to Jack. "We have decided that we will not move into your home, Colonel. It will remain for you, if and when you want to visit. We have also decided to name the village "O'Neill Town" in your honor."

"Uh – wow. You don't have to do that," Jack answered, not quite sure what to say.

"We are honored that you are willing for us to live on Gaia and wish to remember your kindness – and that of your people. The people of Earth will always be welcome here."

Jack was touched and finally agreed, although he didn't know if they would ever return. Somehow he thought it might be hard to come back once the Teleurans had claimed it as their new home.

The next couple of days were filled with him packing up all their belongings and putting them on the trailer he'd built. He was able to get almost everything except for the bigger pieces of furniture, which he gave to the Gaians. Finally, they were ready to depart.

He went one last time to see the animals – taking extra time with the goats, who seemed to know he was leaving. After a few emotional minutes (and he felt stupid for that – they were animals) he turned and headed back to the house. A few minutes later they pulled out, leaving two members of Sg-5 to stay and watch the animals.

Jack only allowed himself to turn back once. He stood quietly, looking out over his home and farm one last time. With a sigh, he finally turned around – only to catch Teal'c's eye.

"Are you alright, O'Neill?" his friend asked.

"I'm fine, buddy," Jack answered. "Let's go home." And with that, Jack felt a sense of peace wash over him. He knew then, that home meant Sam and his sons – and his friends. It didn't matter where they lived, as long as they were together.

It was wonderful to see Cassie again, and to see the young girl's excitement at meeting the children. They'd stayed up late the first evening – just chatting and talking about all that had occurred over the last few years.

When Sam finally went to bed, rather than falling asleep instantly, she couldn't help but think about Jack. She hoped everything was going okay on Gaia. It's not that there was any danger there – but she worried nonetheless.

She also missed her home on Gaia. She missed the peace and quiet – the dark nights filled with stars. Already she was finding the hustle and bustle of life on Earth to be trying. Cassie has turned on the TV and she could hear it in the background. She'd also noticed the young woman constantly checking her phone.

Sam felt a momentary sadness, realizing that her children were now going to grow up in this world. There were more opportunities for them – but also more dangers from the modern world.

"Maybe we should move to the country," she said softly. Of course that would make it difficult to work at the base.

And did she want to go back to work? She and Jack hadn't discussed it yet – there hadn't been time. Right now she didn't know anything about their future and it was frightening.

She wished Jack was home, with her. She rolled over on the bed and put her arm out on the space which he should have been filling. She sighed to feel only an empty bed.

The next day the children were excited to play with their Aunt Cassie and it was wonderful for Sam to have someone else watch them. Although Jack had been great and spent as much time with them as he could, he had often had to spend long days working on the farm. She rarely had time to herself – so enjoyed the opportunity.

"How about going to a spa?" Janet asked suddenly. "I bet you could use some pampering, and Cassie can watch the children."

"I don't know Janet," Sam frowned. "I'm still nursing Kate and the kids aren't used to me being gone."

"Come on – we don't have to go for long – just for a massage and maybe a mani-pedi. You can express some milk and anyway, she's eating solids, right? You can feed her before you go and then Cass can give her baby food if she gets hungry."

Sam closed her eyes briefly, but she had to admit that a couple of hours away sounded heavenly. "Okay – but only if Cass promises to call if there's a problem?"

With the assurance that Cassie would call – and knowing that she was an experienced babysitter, Sam finally agreed to go to the spa.

It was wonderful! It had been a long time – since before they got sent to Gaia – that Sam was able to relax and not worry about anything. She felt a small twinge when she thought about her children, but then forced herself to not worry about them. Cassie was smart and capable and it would do the kids good to be away from her for a while.

She just wished Jack could be with her – although she laughed when she thought of him getting a mani-pedi. He would enjoy the massage, however.

"Enjoying yourself?" Janet's voice made her open her eyes and turn her head.

"Mmm hmm. This is heaven," she said, as the woman rubbed her feet. "I needed this Janet – thank you."

"You're welcome! It's nice to have you back and be able to do these things with you." There was a pause and then Janet said, sounding serious – "I missed you Sam."

"I missed you too Janet," Sam replied, her eyes wet with unshed tears. "I didn't think I'd ever get to see you, or Cassie or Daniel or Teal'c again."

"It must have been so hard," Janet sympathized.

"It was. I'm just thankful Jack was with me. He kept me sane!"

Janet grinned at that. "Is this the same Jack O'Neill? He kept you sane? I thought he was good at driving you crazy?"

Sam chuckled. "I can't think of anyone I'd rather have been stranded with than Jack – and no – not because I was in love with him – but because he's amazing. We wouldn't have survived without him. Even when things seemed hopeless he kept us going. And his survival skills are without equal."

"I'm sure you helped," Janet pointed out.

"Mmm – yes, I guess so. We made a good team."

"That you did. And you made great babies," Janet said, with a smirk.

"Yes we did, didn't we?" Sam agreed, once more closing her eyes. "I wonder how they're doing?" she asked sleepily.

"I'm sure they're fine. Cassie is thrilled to be able to babysit.

"Mmm – I'm glad because I think I could get used to this."

"Daddy come?" little Daniel asked. He was being held in his Grandpa George's arms, while his brother was being held by his Uncle Siler. Kate was in her mother's arms, and all of them were in the Control room, waiting for the return of Jack and the others who had gone to Gaia.

"Yes, Daddy's coming back," Sam answered. The children were almost as excited as she was, by their Daddy's return. She shook her head slightly. She had it bad. He'd only been gone for a few days and it had felt like forever. She then glanced down at her hands and grinned. But at least she had great looking nails!

Just then the gate started to turn and both Daniel and Jacob squealed.

"Daddy!" they both shouted. Kate also squealed although she was unable to speak yet. The adults in the Control room all grinned.

"It looks as if Jack has a fan club," General Hammond said.

Sam chuckled. "Yes, they do love their Daddy!"

"I think we all knew that he'd be a great father, if he had the chance again," George said, seriously. "I'm glad he had the chance."

"Me too, Sir. And yes, he's a great father – and husband."

George looked at her closely, his arms full of a mall O'Neill. "You'll both do fine, Major," he said gently. He understood that the transition for them was not going to be easy, but he had every confidence that they'd do fine.

"Thank you Sir. I hope so. It's so different now – and we haven't really had a chance to even talk about what's next."

"Just give yourself time, Major. There's no need to make a decision right away." At these words the event horizon whooshed and a moment later the travelers returned. Jack was through the gate first, causing a reaction in the Control room.

"DADDY!" two little voices screamed. Jack looked up at that and grinned. He gave a wave of his hands to his family – and the General. "We're back, campers, uh General," he said.

"You have a fan club waiting for you Colonel," General Hammond said into the mike. "I suggest you say hello to them and then make your way to the Infirmary for your post mission check."

"Thank you Sir."

"Nice to come home to that," Daniel said quietly to him.

"It is indeed," Jack answered, still looking up at his family. His grin grew wider and he waved again. Yes, he was home.