Chapter One Hundred-Ten
Birthday Boy, New Direction
A/N – I can't deny that writing about Amy and Ty's weekend was extremely enjoyable. And I would be remiss not to mention how much fun telling the story of the kids with Max and Lilly. I remember how joyful the older members of my family were when the younger generation spent time with them and in Lilly's case the timing was perfect. We now are in the gap of time leading up to Christmas. School, work and activities will keep the Borden clan busy but as I have mentioned it is time to talk business. The company is doing well and recommendations on some organizational moves will be made. For those who are not into the business stuff I will go to my premise that this business is an integral part of the growth of the Borden family and their legacy. But on the lighter side, there is a big birthday that will lead into a big accomplishment and the date you all have been waiting for. If you have been reading I but you know who I am talking about. Please keep the reviews coming. I have a core group of loyal reviewers but I would love to hear from others. And I genuinely appreciate your commitment to my story. So there may be some respectful and mild young adult Mature Content so don't fret Enjoy!
It was Monday morning after the weekend away. The dinner for Max was a lot of fun although everyone would miss him. Not only was he a great husband, but he had also become a valuable confidant for some of the adults, a great friend for Jack and Lisa and the kids, especially JT loved him a lot. Amy and Ty were well rested as they came downstairs to an active group of kids. While they got breakfast ready, the kids scurried about getting things ready for school after the break. The girls were fretting over what to wear as the weather had turned a lot colder. Amy and Ty heard the frustration from their rooms as JT and Wyatt walked down to the kitchen. JT whined, "I have to get away from them, dad can we help you and mom can you go calm them all down." Amy smiled and kissed all three of them, "I got this men, breakfast is now in your hands." Wyatt was a bit startled as he looked at Ty confused. Ty smiled and whispered to him, "She loves you Wyatt." They happily went on with breakfast prep as Amy entered the battlefield. Maddie and Lyndy had clothes all over their beds and were staring with frustration. Annie and Addie were arguing over who was wearing what and were more than willing to give the other their opinion, even if they didn't want it. As Amy looked over the situation she gave one of her patented wolf whistles to get their attention. They stopped abruptly and came out into the hall as she directed them to her room. Downstairs, the men heard the whistle as JT lamented, "Man are they in trouble." Amy pulled the four girls in and had them sit on the bed. She looked at them with a motherly glare. "Girls, what is the issue?" Immediately they all started going on about their individual dilemmas. Amy sat quietly and listened but after a few moments, she raised her hand to get them to stop. "Girls, you are all old enough to understand this. There are things in life that are much more important that what you are going to wear today. You all have plenty of clothes, correct?" They all put their heads down as Maddie whispered, "Yes we do." Amy continued softening her tone and smiling. "There are many things you can wear and trust me you will look great in them. Thank goodness you have the Fleming genes when it comes to looks." They all chuckled as Addie smiled, "Well dad is kind of hot." Amy blushed, "Ok maybe a bad example but you are all beautiful. Put things into perspective and think about Bella and everything she has had to deal with. Think about Gwen, Sylvia, Trudy and little Beau and what challenges they have and will face in life. Think about your grandma and what she is going through and will be going through as she fights her cancer. Think about what your dad is going through, that is his mom." Amy began to tear up, "I know being a girl can really suck sometimes but fretting over what to wear to school, is not an insurmountable decision." The girls all held their heads down and hugged their mom with tears flowing. Annie whispered, "We are sorry Mom."
A quiet group of girls came down following Amy and as she kissed Ty she whispered, "These girls." They had a happy breakfast talking about school and the rest of the year. Lyndy asked about Lilly's appointment so Ty told them about it, "It's just some preliminary testing for the team here. Nothing to serious yet. Mom and I are going along with Lisa. Don't forget she is leaving the next day so make sure you spend some time with her and be on time for breakfast that morning. Smiling he added, "And no drama like today." They all put their heads down as Wyatt and JT smiled secretly to each other. As they finished, Lyndy reminded everyone, "Don't forget the big birthday party on Saturday for my 16-year-old honey bunch." The girls mutually gagged as JT high fived his best bud. After the kids headed off Amy and Ty headed over to the office. After quick sessions with Georgie and Amy as well as Ty and the entire vet team they headed out for their day. Ty had to ask, "So this morning, what was that?" She smiled, "You mean you haven't figured out women yet. Sometimes we have issues with the simplest things. I think the girls have been really worried about us and now with Lilly they kind of lost it mutually. I told them to think about your mom, Bella, Gwen and Beau and realize picking out an outfit is trivial compared to what they are all up against." He stepped back from the door and kissed her deeply, "You still got it Miracle Girl." They smiled at each other with the look only meant for each other. As they stepped out Amy remembered. "Hey at lunch we need to finish our stuff for the Board Meeting on Monday, don't forget." They were glad it was after the big party this weekend. He winked as he headed to the exam room. It was a busy day for everyone and the rest of the week was no different. As expected Lilly's appointment went well as they went over the short and long-term plan for her. While she listened she sat next to Lisa holding her hand. Amy and Ty smiled warmly as they watched the bond between them. A small tear came to Ty as he realized that in her life, she never had a close friend and Lisa had fit the bill for sure. As he watched he saw the two most important mothers he had and was so happy to see their bond. Amy noticed the look on his face and held onto his hand tightly, glancing over from time to time. Everyone had a few questions but overall were pleased about the plan and also privately happy with Lilly's commitment. The four of the had lunch at Maggie's as Lou, Scott and Jack joined them. Tim and Casey showed up as well as Lilly's relationship with Casey had grown as well. It was a great support group as Lilly detailed the plan. While they were eating Ty's phone buzzed and he noticed it was Max on a video call. Although Lilly had already talked to him, he wanted to check in with everybody. He laughed, "Well, well look at the big party without me there." Lilly scoffed at him, "Come on sugar bear, I am coming home tomorrow." Immediately realizing what she said she turned a bright shade of red. The only comment came from Ty, "Sugar bear, really!" Lilly laughed trying to recover, "Well, better than sugar daddy!" The entire table erupted getting attention from many of the patron's at Maggie's. Ty never felt happier inside as he did right at that moment.
The next morning after a happy but sad breakfast that Jack and Lisa joined, Lilly was ready to go back to Colorado. Since they came it was decided that they would take her to the airport as Amy and Ty were really busy. Each one of the kids took time to say goodbye to her with kisses and hugs. Next came Amy as they hugged a little more than the kids, whispering into each other's ears with tears in their eyes. Ty walked outside with his mom as everyone cleared the table and the kids got off to school. As Amy, Jack and Lisa walked out to the porch, Jack loaded her bags and Lisa and Amy headed over to them. They were in a deep embrace with misty eyes. After one final hug for both Amy and Ty, Lilly got in the car promising to call that night. Ty and Amy held each other as the car drove away as Ty whispered, "She is going to be fine, I know it." The rest of the week was very busy, especially since Lyndy, who along with her parents help were planning Wyatt's 16th birthday. He wasn't up for a big party but was happy with just family and some friends. Since the weather had turned colder, Amy and Ty had the smaller tent put up and connected it to the house and made sure the heaters were set up strategically. Per his request it was going to be a BBQ and of course music and dancing later. Ty, Jack, Steven and Tim with JT's help were the grillers and Lisa, Lou, Casey, Katie and Amy were on sides and deserts. Annie, Addie, Maddie and Gwen were on decorations, and Clay would handle music. Lyndy of course was overseeing the entire party. The plan was to go on a trail ride as long as the weather held with just the Bordens, Katie and Clay. Everyone would come back to the house and join the rest of the invitees. Several of the staff from the Day Care Center volunteered to take care of the little ones and JT and his group would be left to fend for themselves. Of course the O'Dell's, Masters and Stillman's would be there. Georgie, Jenn, Cass and Bethany were bringing deserts and watching over the little boys. The main cake was Lyndy's job and she promised it would be spectacular. On Friday night Lyndy went over everything and followed up with them regarding their part of the party. When Amy and Ty went to say good night a startled Wyatt and Lyndy jumped when they knocked on the door. By the look of things they were definitely making out. Amy spoke up discretely interrupting them, "So, are you ready for tomorrow?" Lyndy composed herself and responded, "I think so, I just hope the nicer weather forecasted happens." They smiled and gave her a kiss as Ty looked at Wyatt and mouthed 10 minutes as he tapped his wrist. As they walked to their room Amy giggled and leaned into Ty, "She had the same look I had the night that Grandpa caught us kissing after the Fall Finale. I am sure their kiss meant as much as ours did." Ty frowned, "Let's just hope he doesn't take off like I stupidly did." Amy smirked, "Yea it wasn't your best decision but you made up for it several times, in the rain, on the cattle drive, in the loft, when you came to Victors, and when we went to feed the wild horses." He smiled, "So maybe I can make it up tonight to. He carried her to the bed as their clothes came off. They would not fall asleep for a while.
The next morning, which was Wyatt's actual birthday day, Maddie, Annie and Addie had a surprise. They got up early and made him his favorite breakfast, chocolate chip pancakes, bacon and breakfast potatoes. Amy headed down to see how they were doing as it was early and they laughed and giggled as they made the feast. They decided to make breakfast for Lyndy to but Maddie spoke up, "Mom don't worry they will not actually eat breakfast in bed, like together." She smiled and surprised them, "Why not, I think that would be fun, but make sure they are on top of the covers." The girls laughed but Addie said in disgust, "Mom, really that is gross. It's bad enough with you two but now Wyatt and Lyndy, we are doomed." Amy headed back upstairs to wake her sleeping husband. She climb up in front on him and moved her hand through his hair. He slowly opened his eyes, "Now this is the best thing to wake up to." She smiled and kissed him deeply. "Well seems you are tired, was last night to much for you?" He reached over and cupped her face and whispered huskily, "Well maybe we can continue?" She laughed, "No lover boy, we need to get up. The twins and Maddie are making breakfast in bed for Lyndy and Wyatt." He hesitated, "In bed?" She laughed, "Don't worry I said it was Ok as long as they were on top of the covers. Addie said that was gross." They laughed and headed downstairs. The girls were ready so they all went up to Wyatt's room. As they approached it, Lyndy walked out rubbing her eyes, "What the heck are you doing?" Maddie proudly spoke, "We decided to make Wyatt and you breakfast in bed, on top of the covers." Lyndy lightly knocked on the door to no response. She carefully opened the door as they all prepared to sing Happy Birthday. What she saw brought tears to everyone's eyes. JT was laying in the bed with him and they both were sleeping soundly. In front of JT was a card he must have made for him. She walked over to touch his shoulder and as he opened his eyes he smiled not knowing everyone was there. "Wow, this is the best thing in the world to wake up to." He started to lean up to her and noticed everyone as he turned a deep shade of red, joining Lyndy. Everyone quietly yelled "Happy Birthday. He sat up trying to not wake up his little brother. He mouthed thank you and said, "I had a visitor already, did you see the card?" They passed it around and all smiled at the work that he put into it. JT started to wake up and proclaimed, "What is going on, I was sleeping." Annie explained that they made breakfast for Wyatt and Lyndy. He looked sternly, "Is there enough for me?" He positioned himself between them on the top of the covers as the three of them enjoyed their feast. As the others stepped out of the room, Annie whispered, "Well Mom and Dad looks like we have the ultimate mood killer, I think you can relax." They all laughed and went to have their breakfast leaving the love birds and their chaperone alone.
After the early morning excitement the family was still planning a trail ride. The guys and Maddie got the horses ready as Amy, Lyndy and the twins prepared some snacks and hot chocolate. It was a little colder that they would like it to be but Wyatt really wanted to go on a trail ride. As they mounted and took off Amy smiled and told them, "My mom would take us on rides when it was a lot colder than this. She would say it was a good thing because there were no bugs." JT shivered a bit and spoke up, "I kind of like bugs." They all laughed and headed up to the ridge and the family cemetery, again at Wyatt's request. While there they enjoyed the cookies and hot chocolate. Wyatt was smiling brightly and whispered to Ty, "I love being here with all of you, it is something I never had in my life." Ty looked at him, "Trust me son, I know what you mean." Amy and Lyndy noticed them bonding and smiled sitting close to stay warm. JT was tucked tightly between Annie and Addie but enjoying the hot chocolate none the less. They packed up and headed back to get ready for the party. As they rode Maddie asked Wyatt, "So when is the driving test?" He looked to Ty for an answer but then said, "Whenever dad wants to take me, I am ready." Addie rolled her eyes, "Yea but are we ready." Lyndy also asked, "So when are we going on our date?" Addie added, "More importantly when are you buying your truck." Ty laughed and seeing Wyatt was a little overwhelmed he answered. "Calm down girls, first let's get his license and then we can figure it out. Maybe he wants a Lamborghini or something." Amy laughed, "Yea right, Wyatt seems more like a truck guy, you agree Lyndy." She looked at him dreamily, "As long I get to ride in it with him I don't care, although I know the back of Old Blue has seen some exciting times, right dad?" He looked at her and answered quickly, "No comment." They all left as they got back to the house. The quickly untacked and brushed the horses and headed over to the house to get ready. JT whispered to his mom, "What is so big about the back of dad's old truck, I mean you just haul stuff in there." She blushed as the girls giggled and Ty looked away. "Little man when you are older I will tell you." He fretted, "I hate being young, I miss out on a lot." Every one of them burst into laughter as Wyatt picked up his best buddy, "Let's go sit around and do nothing, it is my birthday."
Everyone had arrived and the BBQ was almost ready. Amy, Lou and Lisa got everything else ready as Maddie and the Twins set the tables. Lyndy, Wyatt and their new mood killer greeted everyone and made sure they had drinks. Jack spoke up, "Ok ladies the BBQ is ready!' The food was laid out the buffet began. Of course Wyatt went first with Lyndy and JT. The others followed and sat enjoying the fun family time. With Lyndy by his side, Wyatt went over to Jack, Tim and Ty, "The BBQ was great thank you." He then went to Amy, Lou and Lisa and hugged them each tightly. "Thank you all for the food, it was amazing." As he walked away, Amy noticed a slight tear in his eyes. She grabbed him for another hug and whispered, "Honey, we are your family and will always be there for you." Lyndy smiled and joined in on the hug. Jack, Lou, Scott and Lisa all smiled at the scene a Ty walked over to join the three of them. After they finished the feast Wyatt had the option of his cake are presents. JT yelled for him, "It's time for presents." So since the boss had spoken, Wyatt was sat in a chair with Lyndy so everyone could see him. Maddie offered to be the scribe as the smiling couple waited as the twins and JT brought up his gifts. When he was finished, Maddie showed him the list:
Jack, Lisa, Tim and Casey - Bolt Transistor Tactical Military Watch and a pair of Tecovas Calfskin custom cowboy boots
Max and Lilly – 1 year of car insurance paid
Lou, Scott, the O'Dell's, Masters and Stillman's – A basket of Gas Cards, Dinner Coupons and Movie Coupons
Katie and Clay – A Stetson Cowboy hat
Ty and Amy – A brand new Corriente Ranch Saddle and matching set of tack for Star
Maddie, Annie and Addie – Some nice date shirts, and coupons for truck cleaning with hopes of getting rides from him
JT – A framed picture of the both of them with Ty
Friends – Gas and Food coupons
Lyndy's gift would be given to him privately only because she wanted to be with him alone when she gave it to him. Wyatt was overwhelmed making efforts to control his emotions as he thanked them for each gift. He barely remembered his birthday's with his parents but he smiled as he recalled how his grandma would make a big deal of his birthday since it was just the two of them. When it was done he stood to say something. Lyndy held his hand as he began. "A few years ago I would have never thought something like this would ever happen to me. I love all of my gifts." Looking at JT, "Especially yours little buddy. I can never repay Amy and Ty for taking me in and treating me like their son. I definitely consider them my mom and dad." Amy and Ty along with the rest of the group sniffled as he spoke and Lyndy held on to his side. "Outside of my grandma I never really had a lot of family, but here I do. Each one of you are very special to me and I love you all very much, especially the person by my side who I love completely. Thank you all, you don't know what this means to me." Everyone applauded as JT yelled, "It's time for cake." A beautiful cake with candles was brought out to a resounding song of Happy Birthday. It had been a good day for Wyatt and the entire Borden family.
As everyone went home, Lyndy brought out her present and walked with Wyatt to a spot they liked to sit alone behind the Day Care center. It was a little chilly but they didn't care as they took a seat looking at the beautiful mountain setting. Lyndy had talked to her mom and she made sure that her siblings would not bother them. This was an important moment for Lyndy and her mom completely understood her need for privacy. Their conversation started casually talking about the party as he looked into her beautiful eyes. "Lyndy, I know you had a lot to do with today and I love you for it." He leaned over to kiss her on her lips and she was more than ready. Their kiss held on as they tentatively open their mouths allowing each other to explore. Both of them forgot about the chilly weather as they kissed and hugged each other. Lyndy's hand roamed over his hair pulling him in tighter as Wyatt moved his hand up and down her back, even sneaking to rub her lower. She giggled, "Getting kind of frisky there mister." He looked down, "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have done that, although deep down they both wanted him to. She pulled back and looked deeply into his eyes. She lunged forward closing the space between them as she increased the aggressiveness of her kiss. They completely felt each other's bodies pressed tightly together. She pulled back breathlessly and gathered herself. "Ok it time for your presents. Here is the first one." He opened the package and saw a framed picture of the both of them the night of the formal dance. Their smiles told the world that they were in love. He smiled, "This is perfect Lyndy, it will go right next to the one JT gave me." Then Lyndy blushed and handed her a small box, "Here is your other present." He smiled and gasped as he opened it, pulling out a gold chain with a ring on the end. He hesitated and Lyndy spoke up, "Katie helped me pick it out. You gave me a promise ring and it was the best day. I wanted to commit my love to you as well. You can wear it of put it around your neck, whatever you want." He was still quiet as she nervously continued, "Wyatt do you like it, I love you so much." He looked up and smiled and answered with a sweet and passionate kiss. He took the chain and put it around his neck under his shirt smiling back at her. "Lyndy I love it and I love this so much. And the good thing you will need to check once in a while to make sure I have it on." She giggled and moved her hand under his shirt to feel for the ring moving her fingers over his chest. His hands were on her sides timidly grazing the side of her breasts "I think I can handle that." Their make out session continued moving forward as they both realized they each wanted more. Then they realized they needed to head back. Lyndy laughed breathlessly, "I can't believe JT or my dad hasn't shown up, I will have to thank mom." They put their arms around each other as they walked back thinking about the level of intimacy they had just experienced. Amy and Ty were at the sink looking out at the young couple. Amy slid her arm around his waist, "I think he is a keeper just like you."
Monday morning brought a tired group to the table. They were excited about the fact that the semester was coming to an end but they also realized that exams were a couple of weeks away and their family study session would have to increase. Amy and Ty were ready for the Borad Meeting that would start right after the kids left. As the kids went off Amy gave a note for JT to give his teacher. On Wednesday, they would pick him up early to see his pediatrician. The doctor had requested to meet him at his clinic office in case he wanted to run some more detailed test. They were slightly worried as he continued to show subtle signs of fatigue and even confusion, that only a few people could see. As she handed him the note, he hugged them both and while he walked to the bus they held each other. They headed over to Fairfield to meet with the rest of the team. Lisa and Jack had decided to invite Clay, Katie, Jenn and Ben as well to sit in as their involvement continued to grow. Max was also set up on Zoom to join in. As they began, Lilly said hello to everyone and excused herself. She had a test that Max's daughter would be taking her to. Lisa brought the meeting to attention as everyone got a drink and breakfast snack before they sat down. Lou came up with her and after the agenda was discussed, she went over the financials. "I know each of us will talk about our individual finances but as promised I will go through the big picture. Every one of the individual companies have shown growth at or above the expected levels. We are seeing some plateauing but like with Maggie's that is expected as we are limited on how big we can get. As you look at this chart that is included in your handout, there is one thing to point out. The Miracle Ranch and the Equine Center have shown significant growth. The money we invested in the operation there has paid off substantially. Right now they are a little over 50% of our operating budget." She took a moment to see if there are any questions so Caleb spoke up, "So since I am the least business savvy person here can I ask, is that good or bad?" Clay laughed poking his buddy in the shoulder. Lou smiled, "Well Mr. O'Dell don't underestimate your business skills, you and Clay's work with supplies continues to give us an economic windfall. But to your question, It is definitely not a bad thing and in fact several of us always thought this would happen. Between Amy and Georgie's notoriety and the quality vet team we have, our reputation continues to build up our equity. Basically we are all on the same path, to be successful, be philanthropic and build a legacy for our children to carry on." Lisa stepped up, "I just want to add, we are a success because no one is in it for themselves. Max and I talked and we both have seen organizations fail because they are a group of individuals and not a family. We operate like a family who genuinely cares and listens to each other." The room was silent as Caleb joked, "Lou you really think I have good business skills?" The room erupted in laughter as Cass kissed the cheek of her amazing husband.
For the remainder of the morning each individual operation went over their results, and plans moving forward. As lunch approached they all decided to take an hour to reenergize and call back to home and work. None of them were used to long meetings so the time was needed. Over lunch, Jenn, Ben, Clay and Katie sat with Jack and Lisa, thanking them for inviting them to attend. Lisa smiled, "Well we talked about it an decided that we want you guys to become more involved in decision making. To be honest, your generation is the future and you have been invaluable to our success." As the afternoon began Scott spent about a half hour talking through the Camp and how its first year was going. Lou was so proud of him and the company for their involvement and support, He mentioned, "We have been approached by several other tribal nations and they want to replicate our process. It seems among the native American culture, the camp has become a benchmark for helping our troubled youth. I expect my grandpa would be proud." He teared a bit as everyone applauded and Lou clutched his hand. After a few more presentations, Amy and Ty went last as they had the most to talk about. Amy started talking through the horse healing side of the business. "Well as you know our business has been booming, even in the winter months. I have to thank Jenn and Lou for going above and beyond to accommodate our out-of-town clients with places to stay. Jenn I am so happy you guys decided to build your own home on site, I think we all know the extra room at Fairfield was needed. Georgie and I have increased the level of need horses for Katie, Lyndy and Rusty. Wyatt has also begun to take on more horses by himself when we can break him and Lyndy apart." The room chuckled as Clay spoke up, "That's my boy!" Katie poked him as Amy continued, "Yea thanks for that. We have our eye on a couple of ranch hands, one of the kids from the youth program and even Annie who has shown some interest. We will integrate them and keep an eye on their progress. We need to keep looking forward as our notoriety and business grows." Ty took over with assist from Scott. "Well on the medical side as Amy's business grows so does ours. Scott and I were brainstorming and felt moving all of the equine business to the Miracle ranch was the right thing to do." Scott interceded, "Our beau vine business continues to grow. I have Ellie and Mandy looking at reconfiguring the facility to accommodate more stock. Ty and I even talked about finding a place to move all of our other animal business and keep the clinic just for cattle. And it just so happens that an empty building across the road has become available. We walked through it and feel it could be outfitted for our needs. Here are the early projections on cost." Ty handed out a one pager with the cost. Ty continued, "We already spoke to Lou and Lisa and believe this is doable without the need to borrow money. Our biggest challenge will be to staff it up but Cass, Ellie and Mandy are already looking at students in the clinical program." Lisa saw a little stress on the group and called for a short 10-minute break.
During the break, a lot of animated discussions were underway about their idea and the growth of the Miracle Ranch. Jack and Lisa spoke with Max privately talking about what would be needed legally to add another facility. Max had to bring up to them, "Lisa you were spot on with your comments earlier. I have never seen a group of people work so well together without any personal agenda. Jack, this is a testament to you, Lisa, Marion and your first wife Lyndy." He laughed, "Lisa would you ever see this in the business world?" She laughed again, "Well Max you never met my first husband." They laughed and Lisa called the meeting back to order. Ty began talking, "Any thoughts about our expansion ideas? Several people were extremely excited stating their approval. Steven asked, "Don't get me wrong but all of us vets are pretty busy, Scott, Ty can we handle the additional workload." Scott smiled, "Well Ellie has already mentioned that she would be more than happy to run it with some help, she enjoys working with all the dogs, cats, rabbits and such. Ty and I agree as that seems to be her lane, so really with a few good vet tech hires we believe we can handle the work. Keep in mind the current Hudson vet clinic will only be cattle and the Equine Center only horses. In fact we will name the new facility the Hudson Vet Clinic and rename the current location the Heartland Equestrian Expereince Beau Vine Treatment Center. And we will still use Heartland for equine carry over, which comes to our other idea." He smiled as Ty took over. "Well Amy, Georgie, Steven, Caleb and I walked the entire Miracle Ranch facility. We need more capacity. We would like to recommend a site survey to look for areas where we can expand or build out. Also we want to consider tapering down the Equine services at Heartland, possibly keeping all of the family horses there and moving some of the outside stables to the Miracle Ranch. Heartland would continue to be our homestead but more family only focused. We see using it more for family parties, get-togethers and staff events. Kind of the place set aside just for us. Steven and Georgie are just a short ride away and will work almost exclusively at the Equine Center. In fact we might consider buying a few more ATVs to move family back and forth, especially since all of our horses will not be at Heartland." Ty took a breath as the room buzzed. Finally Max spoke up, "Well from the outside looking in I think those plans are solid. It seems the Miracle Ranch continues to be the place where growth has and will continue. And having Heartland as home base is an amazing idea and would be the best for everyone in our family." Lisa took over, "Well I would say we need to vote but I don't think that is necessary. Lou, I need you, Ty, Amy and Scott to go over the numbers to make sure it works and then privately share with the group of us here today. For our visitors, we need to keep this between the Board until we are ready to announce. It will have a positive impact on our staff, but we also need to prepare to talk to the media. As you know when we do something it raises some attention."
Before she formally adjourned the meeting Amy's phone went off. As she answered she turned white and looked at Ty alarmed and whispered, "Ty it's JT's school." They walked to the back of the room as the others looked on with concern. She answered and the nurse was on the phone, "Mrs. Borden, first off JT is fine but we had a slight incident. He was not feeling well and had to be brought to me. He seemed overly fatigued and for a moment seemed to lose consciousness. Protocol required us to call the EMTs and they just arrived and are talking to him. Mrs. Borden, he wants to talk to you." Amy couldn't speak as Ty held on to her and the others watched in shock. All of a sudden a quiet voice came on the phone, "Mommy can you please come get me, I want to go home." After Amy said of course she collapsed onto the chair as Ty took the phone, "Buddy we are on our way." The nurse assured him that JT was doing better as they grabbed their coats to leave. After a quick goodbyes and hugs a shocked Amy headed out with her husband. Katie told them her and Clay would take care of the kids and Lou told them to let them know how he was doing when they could. Jack helped Ty get an almost catatonic Amy into the truck as they headed out to get their son. Amy's mind was spinning as she held onto Ty. As they drove she was finally able to say something looking at her husband, "Ty, I am so scared. Maybe we waited too long, we knew something was off with him" He squeezed her tightly, "Ames, don't go there, we just need to get our boy, we are 10 minutes away."