Chapter Twenty-Six

More Parties and Milestones

A/N – Well how about that. There is a lot to celebrate, a lot to plan and several milestones that will be achieved. And all of the businesses continue to keep everyone active. The kids are back in school and the family fun continues. Let the New Year begin. Mature Content. Enjoy!

The Hudson community was abuzz about the engagement of Lou and Scott. Congratulations and well wishes came from everyone in Hudson, the mayor even congratulating them in person. Everywhere they went people were hugging them and wishing them well. They never realized how many people they interacted with. They didn't set a date yet but Lou was leaning toward late summer or early fall. That would be after Georgie's baby was born and several months after the new company was started. Lou got wind that Lisa was planning and engagement party in a month so they agreed that they would have a date by then. They had decided that Scott would move into Heartland since there was plenty of room. They would move into the larger attic bedroom with a bathroom and Katie would take over Lou's old room. She wasn't overly happy but she understood and to be honest she was so happy she didn't mind.

The time to celebrate was coming with JT's 1st Birthday party. Since he was born right after New Year's, they decided to have it the weekend after that. Amy and Ty had begun planning after Christmas and all of the invitations were delivered on New Year's Day. They had invited family and the friends that JT was comfortable with like Wyatt and Gwen. Caleb, Cass and Ben would be there as they would be taking notes for their son's first birthday. The girls worked hard getting the house ready, decorating and setting up tables with chairs. Amy and Ty decided to have Maggie's famous fried chicken and sides for an easy meal. Presents were wrapped and prep was completed the night before. They party was at noon with lunch and presents. Then a really big cake with "Happy 1st Birthday, Jackson Tyler Borden, We Love You on it was ready and ice cream was in the freezer. JT knew something was up and it was a challenge to get him to go to bed. Amy and Ty made their rounds thanking the girls for all their work getting everything ready.

Amy and Ty were in bed holding each other. "I can't believe our little man is one year old Ty," Amy said with a glint of a tear in her eye. Ty rolled over to face her, "Amy he is a special young man, I can already see the joy and love in him. When they girls told us how he was sitting by Spartan's stall and said he missed him, I mean what one year old thinks like that. As I watch you and the girls with him, I just smile thinking about how lucky he is. And Amy when he looks at you, I feel like, I feel like it's the same way I look at you." He stopped to catch his breath. "Amy Borden you are the foundation of this family and we all look to you for support and love." Amy leaned into Ty and kissed him deeply with a tenderness only meant for him. "She whispered, "No Ty we are the foundation and our children are a reflection of both of us." Their kiss intensified and soon turned into much more. They helped each other undress and joined in the familiar intimacy that led to passionate love making. In their ecstasy they moaned into each other's ears professing their undying love. When they were each completely satisfied, they laid next to each other catching their breath. Ty whispered, "Not too bad for the parents of 5 kids." Amy cooed and snuggled into his arms as they both fell into a blissful sleep.

It was party day and JT was primed and ready to be showered with love and plenty of presents. As Amy and Ty came down to the breakfast table, he proclaimed, "JT Birthday Momma and Dadda!" They hugged and kissed him with passion and the girls joined in. Addie spoke up, "It's about time you two got down here we have a lot of work to do. People are going to be here in a couple of hours." JT spoke up, "Addie Nice." Everyone laughed and got on with final prep for the party. The food was set to arrive a half hour before the party so Amy and Lyndy got the kitchen ready. The girls put finishing touches on the decorations and brought out the presents. Ty conveniently took JT into the clinic with him, not because he had work to do but to keep him out of the way, When they got there Cass grabbed him, swinging him around and saying, "It's the birthday boy." He giggled and hugged her back. After they left, they ran to Maggie's to get a few items that Amy added at the last minute and again JT was accosted by Lou and several of the staff. He was loving the attention, giggling and hugging everyone. Ty gathered up the man of the day and headed home. Let the fun begin.

When they pulled up to the house JT screamed, "Dadda GG and Mimi (They all called Lisa Mimi)." As they stopped, he tried to wriggle out of his seat. After he realized he couldn't do it he waited for Ty and once released ran to Jack and jumped into his arms. "Hey big man, what is going on today?" Jack asked. JT looked at him with a serious gaze, "GG JT's Birthday." Jack smiled and hugged him tightly, "Yes, it is, Happy Birthday little man." He carried him into the house and JT's eyes lit up. The house was all decked out and a lot of people were already there. Hugs and kisses came from everyone there. Amy smiled and whispered to Ty, "Good lord just what he needs, more attention." He smiled lovingly, "Like the attention you got last night?" She giggled and kissed his cheek. Georgie look over and said, "Can you two give it a rest, you have like 5 kids." Amy looked over, "Jealous much."

After everyone was there Ty and Amy welcomed everyone formally and gloated about their son. "As you all remember this guy was really anxious to get here and as you can see, he is anxious to get this party started." Amy said as she looked at her son trying to get out of his father's grasp. So, enjoy lunch and after we open gifts and have birthday cake and ice cream for everyone. Right JT?" JT screamed, "Party!" Maggie's famous fried chicken and all the sides were a big hit. Everyone was having a great time, especially the birthday boy. Maddie and Gwen were assigned to keeping him under control and Lyndy, Wyatt and the twins took care of drinks and clean up. They knew it was their brother's day and they were more than happy to help. JT was in heaven as everyone continued to shower him with attention. He continued to have the strongest bond with Jack. When Tim and Casey came over to him, he shyly ducked behind his mom's leg. Amy apologized but realized that his relationship with his Grandpa needed some work. Later she grabbed Casey, "I know my dad was a little hurt when JT shied away from him, but JT really hasn't seen him a lot. Maybe you guys should have all the kids over one afternoon for a ride and maybe let them see the cows. I bet JT would love that and it would help him be more comfortable." Casey smiled and hugged Amy in tears, "That is a great idea, he understands but still misses his grandkids a lot."

After the scrumptious lunch it was present time. JT was placed on his throne, at least that was what Maddie called it as presents were given to him. Lyndy and Wyatt kept track of who gave what while Maddie and Gwen helped him open them. With every gift he opened he smiled and laughed with glee. Each one was special to him and he went to each person and hugged them. Lou joked with Scott, Jack and Lisa, "That kid is gonna be a great politician, he loves everyone." They all laughed. Soon after the opening of all of his presents a birthday cake was brought out as everyone sang happy birthday. JT was smiling and so happy trying to sing along. After the candles were blown out with the help of Gwen and Maddie cake and ice cream were enjoyed by all. JT had fun smearing cake all over himself as Jack said laughing, "Get the hose out to clean him off." As everyone laughed a very tired JT hugged everyone while being held by his dad. Amy and Maddie took him to his room for a quick nap and everyone pitched in to clean up. Dinner was light and everyone was early to bed. After the rounds Amy and Ty held each other without the need for words. Both of them were content just being in each other's arms and kissing each other to sleep.

The next couple of weeks were pretty routine for the Borden family, school, work and horses. The girls loved school and time with their friends. Amy and Ty were getting ready for their first planning meeting with the "Board" at Fairfield in a couple of weeks. But first on the agenda was Steven's long-awaited graduation. He was happy when he got the final confirmation of completing his studies and even more excited when he found out he was at the top of his class academically. Georgie was beside herself and was actively planning his party with her mom while dealing with the first trimester of pregnancy. It would be held at Heartland and include the regular group of family and friends. She also invited several of his classmates that he was close to. They requested enough graduation ceremony tickets for immediate family. Ty and Amy as adjunct professors were asked if they wanted to be on the stage in their caps and robes but they opted to stay with the family. Caleb, Cass, Jade, Cliff and Wyatt volunteered to make sure everything was set up for the party at Heartland. As usual the family was there in full force including Steven's parent and their spouses, who were also invited to the party.

As the group was seated Georgie was nervous. Steven had been selected to give a speech and she know he did not enjoy speaking publicly. What she didn't know was that Ty had been helping him prepare as he too had to speak at his graduation. Like Steven Ty was the valedictorian. The Dean called the graduation to order and after a brief speech they started the ceremony. Steven was near the end but when they saw him moving close to the stage. JT yelled out, "Stevie!" and too his delight Steven waved at him as the group laughed. When his name was called everyone erupted in clapping, hoots and hollers along with a very emotional Georgie who was in tears. After he received his diploma, he looked over at his mom and Georgie, who were holding each other in tears. He smiled and mouthed, "I love you." This caused both of them to even be more emotional. Georgie wanted to run up to him but she knew he was about to give his speech. With a lot of waterworks expected Lou had brought several boxes of Kleenex. Mainly for Georgie, Steven's mom, Ty and herself. Amy poked her husband in the ribs quietly saying, "The marshmallow is back." He choked back to her. "I am just so happy for him. I know how he feels right now." She quietly hugged him, kissing his cheek. She understood.

The dean announced that Steven had been selected to speak for the class and was also the valedictorian. After another round of applause, Steven calmly walked up to the podium. Georgie saw him approach calm and collected with a big smile on his face. She was a little startled at his demeanor as Ty reach over whispering in her ear, "Georgie, he's got this, it's all for you." She hugged him tightly unable to say anything. Steven opened his portfolio and took a deep breath as the audience quiet. Amy, whispered to JT to be quiet as she was sure he was about ready to say hi to Steven again. Steven looked into Georgie's eyes and began.

Good afternoon, my name is Steven Weber and on behalf of the entire graduating class and university staff I would like to thank you all for being her today. As you may be able to figure out, public speaking is not my strong point but thanks to some coaching I hope my speech meets everyone expectations. Before I start, I want to personally thank my coach, Dr. Tyler Borden." Georgie looked questionably at Ty. "As some can now see even my amazing wife, Georgie was unaware that he had been helping me put my words on paper and even allowed me to practice on him. Ty is a graduate of this program and also give a speech a long, long time ago on this very stage." The audience laughed as Ty raised his arms and corrected him, "Not that long ago." Steven continued, " Ty is one of the most recognized veterinarians in Alberta and for that point all of Canada. Along with Dr. Scott Cardinal his mentor, and Dr. Cassandra O'Dell they have provided this university innovative surgical procedures that have been adopted by countless clinic and universities in Canada and the northwestern US. Along with his wife Amy they have a successful Equine Center that continues to grow in both size and reputation. But most importantly he is my mentor, my boss and my best friend. He has helped me grow as a vet and a person, and I sincerely love him with all of my heart." At this point basically everyone in the family was crying.

Ok, back on track, I would like to thank my parents and my beautiful, now expecting wife Georgie for all their support as well. In fact I could spend the entire speech thanking all of those family and friends that have supported me through this journey. As with many of my fellow graduates we had challenges and I am sure we would all agree that because of all of you we are here today. Veterinary medicine is a rewarding and exciting career and we are looking forward to being a part of its evolution and growth. Many of us have picked specialties and mine will be focused on the equine area. Kind of a given for me since my family's business is built on "helping the 4-leggeds" as my Aunt Amy always says. I mean I have to listen to her because she is the Miracle Girl." Again everyone chuckled and laughed as Amy mouthed "I love you" to him. "Our lives all have a meaning and each of us are now poised to take our skills and make the world of animals health and their owners well-being and make them better. As GG would say there is no stronger bond that that between a horse and his owner, and our responsibility as new graduates is to make a positive impact on that goal. As I close, I have to say one more thing about my amazing wife. She is my everything and without her by my side all these years I would never been able to accomplish this. I love her and our new baby to be with all my heart. They are what drives me to be the best that I can be. I am sure the rest of my classmates feel the same about their loved ones. Thank you all again for joining us today and graduating class – WE DIT IT!"

The auditorium erupted in loud applause a caps flying in the air. The dean walked over to Steven and shook his hand in congratulations, "Steven that was an amazing speech. And you are right family is your strength, don't ever forget that." He thanked him and made a beeline to his wife. Georgie jumped into his arms kissing him passionately. "I love you so much, you are amazing." She cooed. Maddie stood in disgust, "Not you guys too." Everyone laughed and Ty hugged and kissed her as well. Everyone took turns congratulating Steven. Even little JT jumped into his arms and gave him a big kiss on the cheek. Jack, Lisa, Katie and Lou all joined in on the hugs and kisses. Steven and Georgie then approached Amy and Ty. Georgie went to Ty, hugging him and Amy whispering in their ears, "Thank you Ty, I love you both so much." The Steven approached Ty and hugged him tightly. They stepped to the side and Steven calmly told him, "Ty I now know what a true friend is and also what family means in my life. I can't thank you enough for everything you have done for us. You are the best," hugging him again. Ty, looked at him with a serious eye, "Steven this is all you but I do appreciate your words. You know this family is pretty amazing and we are lucky to be a part of it." Amy and Georgie joined them and Amy kissed Ty's cheek and whispered, "Ty you are amazing, I love you with all my heart."

Everyone arrived at Heartland for the party in a great mood. Stevn's speech was amazing and everyone was in awe of what he had said. The food was out and everyone enjoyed an amazing feast of many of Steven's and Georgie's favorites. Marni made sure they had many of the things they had for their wedding and everyone sat on multiple tables enjoying each other's company. Georgie and Steven walked around to see everyone and they made it a point to spend time with both of his parents. Steven was still close to his mom but didn't want to avoid time with his father and spoil the party. They even spent some time with Tim and Casey who sat with Jade and her husband. There was still tension around him but they again wanted it to be a happy occasion. Although she wasn't sure, Peter had made it to the graduation and was invited to the party as well. Georgie made sure they sat with him as well although their relationship was not strong anymore. They ended up eating and sitting with Amy and Ty telling old stories of the famous relationship hurdles they had. The girls were rolling in their chairs laughing at the silly things their parents went through. Even though he didn't understand JT was laughing just as much. Ty responded to the barbs and said, "yes girls but did Georgie tell you that she stole mom's engagement ring from me and also let us tell you how we caught them kissing when they were supposed to be doing night check. Two can play at this game." He smiled until Amy stepped in, "These stories can wait you two, we are here to celebrate Dr. Steven Weber." She stood up and got everyone's attention, "Everyone let's raise a glass to celebrate Hudson's and The Marion Fleming Equine's Center's newest vet – Dr. Steven Weber, Cheers!? Glasses were raised and accolades came from all. When it settled, JT screamed out, "Doctor Stevie!"