Disclaimer: I own ONLY AnneMarie, Fabiola, Madam Velosomikh, Madamé Císerosa, K.C. Anderson, Amelia Herrington, and baby Mariah.
Summary: This may be out of order in whatever way, but hey, its my story, I get to decide how it goes. ;-) Sorry if it takes a while for me to get it posted, but I've been writing it in whatever time I get between classes and stuff and I'm laptop less so its all scribbled down on paper and I've actually gotta find time to type it all up. But hopefully I'll find enough time somewhere. :-) Also, I've decided to make it easier on people to let me know what they think, and give me more ideas of what to write. If you would like, I can be reached via email or Yahoo! messenger at or via AOL instant messenger as PrincessSpzMnky . Feel free to drop me a line if you'd like. :-) Happy Reading:-)
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Hey Guys,
Thank you so much for all your continued love, understanding and endless patience. I know I have driven everybody completely nuts, having to wait so long for the ending to this story, but I do hope that it will have been well worth your wait. I am sooooooooo sorry it took me so long, I have just had a lot going on in my life this past year, especially these last few months. The good news is that as of last Friday, I am not a college graduate (YAY! I got my Associates Degree), and have all summer to sit around and just chill. I am proud to announce that this fall, I will be attending school at California State University, San Bernardino, where I will be continuing my education as a Mass Communications; Public Relations & Advertising major. I am VERY excited to be moving on, and can not wait to get started!
Thank you again, to everyone for all your patience during the wait for this final installment of Dreams Of Gold. As I'm sure you are very aware at this moment, your long wait is finally over! So here you go, the big finale. Be sure to let me know what you think. :-)
Dreams
P.S. I don't suggest hitting print. This chapter is VERY long:-)
Tearful Endings
6 Weeks Later
"Well, this is it AnneMarie. There's no turning back now." Tommy said softly.
"Yeah . . ." she agreed as she stood outside Juliard with her family, on her first day of college.
And so we talked all night about the rest of our lives
Where we're gonna be when we turn 25
I keep thinking times will never change
Keep on thinking things will always be the same
Flashback ---
AnneMarie stood proudly, her black gown flowing in the gentle breeze as she addressed the large crowd, gathered together to witness the commencement of the Angel Grove High School Class of 2009.
"Honored Guests, Teachers, Family, Friends, Ladies and Gentlemen, and Fellow Graduates, this day has finally arrived. It is with great honor that I am standing here this moment speaking to you, sharing in the absolute joy of the amazing fact that we, the graduating class of 2009, have made it to our well deserved destination. Such a sweet moment this is, with our proud family and friends watching us as we take a step into our futures of prosperity and endless possibilities. It seems like only yesterday that we started our first year of highschool. Remember how insecure we felt and how much in awe we were of the seniors? Just recently I was picking my niece up from preschool, and experienced that amazement and admiration. "Wow! You're a senior in high school? Is it hard?" Now we're past that wonderful stage in our lives and, maybe feeling a little unsure about things, are on to new and "equally fantastic" things.
When I began thinking about my speech, I immediately recalled the poet Robert Frost's 'The Road Not Taken': Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could To where it bent in the undergrowth. We are now at this milestone in our lives, the splitting of our paths. Our graduation represents the end of one road; a road that has been full of uphills, downhills, twists and turns, the gravel roads of the small towns, and the booming streets of the big city . . . Angel Grove. We have all grown accustomed to this road, for it has been a one way street where we could sit along for the ride, whether it be in a good ol' Ford or Chevy pickup truck, a Honda Civic, or quite possibly a Volkswagen bus. But no longer can the car be in cruise control because we are now the drivers and we have to flip the indicator in our direction of choice.
Now I feel it is necessary to refresh everyone's memory of our journey up to this point, purely to emphasize my message. The beginning of our road: For obvious reasons I will not go into the biological details of our origin, mainly cause its icky . . . but I will say that it is our parent's love for us... and one another that is the reason we are here today. You are our guardians; you have watched over us ever since we entered this world. We have triumphed over many struggles together, which have changed as we have matured. We should cherish every moment that we have the privilege of sharing with you. You are the fountains of love, joy, and strength from which we drink. Even when we dye our hair or pierce our belly buttons, your love continues. As my Nana always says, 'I'm not so concerned about what you do to the outside. It's what you do to the inside that matters.' Throughout our years with you, you have listened to us, felt our pain and wiped away our tears, shared in our joy and triumphs, encouraged us, and were always there, no matter what. You attended all our sports games in the rain and cold and sat through all our plays, musical recitals, and other special events. You also accepted the fact that we were growing up, although at times I'm sure you wished we weren't. You did all this, simply because you love us. It is your unconditional love that gives us the ability to keep going. Thank you for this love. But in all truth, despite the arguments we have and our contrasting opinions, the care you have provided each of us with has shaped the people we are today, and will continue to, even when we form new families. So onto the road. A funny thing about this road is that we often don't realize the importance of the events we experience until after they have happened. Our first day at school all the way to our first crush. Our exit from the safe barriers of elementary school into the emotional world of middle school, where our transition into adult hood began. All these events eventually led into one of the most important days of our lives, the start of high school. How did we arrive at this spectacular moment in our lives as such marvelous, unique people with such potential?
As we move into our future, we will continue to feel the love and support of our families and friends and of those we have yet to meet. No matter how old we become, we'll still be those competent 18 years olds on the verge of something new and exciting, those questioning 15-year-olds trying to figure out who we are, those curious 10-year-olds eager to try new things, and those fun loving 5-year-olds who enjoy every bit of life's offerings. We'll also still be those newborns who have just been given the chance to begin an incredible life. I believe that love has created our true selves, shaping us into such masterful pieces of art. We could live in poverty, breathe in pain, be embraced by fear, cry tears of sadness, and dwell in our doubts. But love, it makes us rich, frees the air of pain so that we can breathe freely, loosens fear's hold on us, wipes away those tears of sadness, and turns our doubts into beliefs. As for the sources of this love, they are the people here sharing with us this moment, those who cannot be here today but are forever nestled in our hearts, those we have known all our lives, have recently met, and also those we can never meet but loved us and helped make us who we are.
Caring friends, such unforgettable people you are in our very hearts. When we needed a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen to our troubles, and a laugh to brighten our day, we turned to you. When we lost all belief in ourselves, you were there to help us retrieve it, plant it back in our hearts, and continue to water it until it bloomed again. You brought sunshine to our stormy skies, and helped us relieve the burden of stress, pressure, and melancholy we were carrying on our backs. You, too, were always there for us. It is your beautiful friendship that instills in us the belief that we are truly special. Thank you for this friendship.
Teachers, coaches, and youth leaders, you too are wonderful, significant, and unforgettable. Our role models and mentors you were. Throughout our "I can't do it's", you gave us the strength and ability to reach our dreams, brought out our creativity, believed in us, encouraged us, supported us, and never ceased to help us. With that help, we are now able to become those scientists, teachers, Olympic athletes, or anything else we dream of becoming. And, Grads, have you noticed some of them have become friends? It is your ongoing support that helped us strive for who we are today. Thank you for this support.
At times this world often seems like a knot of confusion, anxiety, and trouble. To arrive at this day, we have all struggled through and overcome adversity and loss. For some it was academic, for others personal. As of now, we are in the midst of layoffs and government cutbacks. We face rising tuition costs, unemployment, and environmental deterioration. We have witnessed destruction and seen fear in the eyes of others. But we, as the graduates of 2009, are bursting with success and have the perseverance to make a difference. If you ever doubt your abilities and believe that something is impossible, just think about how far you have already come. If our ancestors had let their doubts shatter their dreams, the world would not be as wonderful as it is today. We will succeed, especially if we define success as Martin Luther King did:
'If you want to be important - that's wonderful. If you want to be great - that's wonderful. But recognize that he who is greatest among you shall be your servant.' That's your new definition of greatness - it means that everybody can be great because everybody can serve. You don't have to know about Plato and Aristotle to serve. You don't have to know the second law of thermodynamics to serve. You only need a heart full of grace, a soul generated by love . . ."
We may not be written in History books for our outstanding accomplishments, but we will be written in the hearts of others and never forgotten. We will have our fame.
The other day, my brother shared a story with me, that truly touched my heart, and I would now like to share it with you.
One day, when I was a freshman in high school, I saw a kid from my class
walking home from school. His name was Kyle. It looked like he was
carrying all of his books. I thought to myself, "Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday? He must really be a nerd." I had quite a weekend planned (parties and a football game with my friends tomorrow afternoon), so I shrugged my shoulders and went on. As I was walking, I saw a bunch of kids running toward him. They ran at him, knocking all his books out of his arms and tripping him so he landed in the dirt. His glasses went flying, and I saw them land in the grass about ten feet from him. He looked up and I saw this terrible sadness in his eyes. My heart went out to him. So, I jogged over to him and as he crawled around looking for his glasses, and I saw a tear in his eye. As I handed him his glasses, I said,"Those guys are jerks. They really should get lives." He looked at me and said, "Hey thanks!" There was a big smile on his face. It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude. I helped him pick up his books, and asked him where he lived. As it turned out, he lived near me, so I asked him why I had never seen him before. He said he had gone to private school before now. I would have never hung out with a private school kid before. We talked all the way home, and I carried some of his books. He turned out to be a pretty cool kid. I asked him if he wanted to play a little football with my friends. He said yes. We hung out all weekend and the more I got to know Kyle, the more I liked him, and my friends thought the same of him. Monday morning came, and there was Kyle with the huge stack of books again. I stopped him and said, "Boy, you are gonna really build some serious muscles with this pile of books everyday!" He just laughed and handed me half the books. Over the next four years, Kyle and I became best friends. When we were seniors, we began to think about college. Kyle decided on Georgetown, and I was going to Duke. I knew that we would always be friends, that the miles would never be a problem. He was going to be a doctor, and I was going for business on a football scholarship. Kyle was valedictorian of our class. I teased him all the time about being a nerd. He had to prepare a speech for graduation. I was so glad it wasn't me having to get up there and speak. On graduation day, I saw Kyle. He looked great. He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school. He filled out and actually looked good in glasses. He had more dates than I had and all the girls loved him. Boy, sometimes I was jealous. Today was one of those days. I could see that he was nervous about his speech. So, I smacked him on the back and said, "Hey, big guy, you'll be great!" He looked at me with one of those looks (the really grateful one) and smiled. "Thanks," he said. As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began. 'Graduation is a time to thank those who helped you make it through those tough years. Your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach...but mostly your friends. I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them. I am going to tell you a story.' I just looked at my friend with disbelief as he told the story of the first day we met. He had planned to kill himself over the weekend. He talked of how he had cleaned out his locker so his Mom wouldn't have to do it later and was carrying his stuff home. He looked hard at me and gave me a little smile. 'Thankfully, I was saved. My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable.' I heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told us all about his weakest moment. I saw his Mom and dad looking at me and smiling that same grateful smile. Not until that moment did I realize its depth.
Never underestimate the power of your actions. With one small gesture you can change a person's life. For better or for worse. God puts us all in each other's lives to impact one another in some way. Look for God in others. The other day in English, Ms. Applebee told us 'Don't be sad that high school is over, be glad that it happened.' Time has its way of moving forward, meaning we must too. Keep in mind that these decisions can be neither right nor wrong, meaning you must have faith in your judgement. So now as you are standing at the cross-section of your roads, realize that it will be these memories and the people in your lives who will help you make your path, but only you will be the one to follow it. Do not be scared of the skyline ahead, for it will always be changing with you. I shall be telling this with a sigh. Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I ----- I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.
Today, we collect a piece of paper which acknowledges the accomplishments that we have made, the hardships that we've gone through and the sacrifices occasioned by each and everyone of us and those who have loved us unconditionally throughout. To our families and friends, thank you for your constant guidance and unwavering support. To our lecturers, thank you for believing in our potential. You have trained us to be independent thinkers and set a firm foundation for us to venture out as competent professionals. Within this graduating class we have aspiring neuroscientists, mathematicians, businesspeople, lawyers, professional wrestlers, and even dancers. Yes, you heard me. Some people in this class actually want to be lawyers. You'd think that some of us wouldn't want to be labeled as lawyers, but hey, people are entitled to their own opinions and goals. But I don't want to get into any, uh,…trouble, so as a side note I'd just like to say I really do like law and think it is one of the neater professions. In fact, I'm still kind of debating whether or not I want to be a lawyer or politician myself. It is a great stepping stone to enter politics. Of course, so is dancing, so I don't know if that's a good or bad thing.
I would like to take a moment now to thank some very important people, who have continuously made all the difference in my life. Many of you here today know me, while many of you are just seeing me for the very first time in your life. But what not many of you do know, is that even thought it may look like I have everything I could ever want, I really don't have very much at all. 10 years ago, I moved to Angel Grove, just days after my mom died. I was 8 years old, and I didn't know anybody. Previously, I lived in Phoenix, Arizona with my parents, who adopted me when I was just a few days old. My parents were my rocks. They were always there for me, no matter what. I remember my Daddy reading to me every night before bed, then tucking me in, and telling me that he loved me, and that I would always be his little Princess. My mom always cuddled with me in bed during story time, combing her fingers through my hair, and giving me gentle kisses, then sang me to sleep every night after my Dad was done. My parents loved me more than life itself. Unfortunately, my Dad was killed in a car accident when I was 6, and then just a little over a year later, breast cancer claimed my mother's life as well. Before my mom died, she spent a year searching, doing all the research and investigations she could, on my biological family. She knew she was going to die, but she refused to leave me behind as an orphan. True to her word, my mom left me with the most wonderful, most loving family on the planet. Mom found me my brother, Tommy Oliver . . . Tommy took over as my parent, and spent the next 10 years of his life raising me, as if I were his own daughter . . ." A tear rolled down AnneMarie's face as she paused in her speech, looking up into the assembled crowd at her family. "My brother is the absolute best parent in the entire universe . . . He has always been here for me. Tommy has been my rock, my light shining in the dark that has always helped me through the rough times. Tommy has been here for me, regardless of himself, or anything else in this world. Even when he was on the other side of the country or even the world, he was always just a phone call and a plain flight away . . . Tommy held my hand tight, lifting me up when I was down and always telling me that everything would turn out ok in the end, even when I refused to believe it myself . . . He gave me my family . . . My Nana, Papi, my oldest brother David, my sister in-law Kimberly, and my completely adorable niece, Mariah. Tommy has given me everything. He's laid the world out at my feet, and encouraged me to take a running leap toward conquering it . . . Tommy is the reason I am here today, standing before this huge crowd, telling everyone about what a great experience high school has been, and giving my peers encouraging words as we all depart Angel Grove High School and take the terrifying gigantic leap toward the rest of our lives . . . So Tommy . . . I just want to say 'thank you' for everything. Thank you for taking me in. Thank you for being not just my parent, guardian and brother, but also, my best friend. Thank you for giving up the last 10 years of your life to raise the sister that mysteriously appeared out of thin air. Thank you for giving me Kimberly, who is not only your better half, but mine also. And thank you for Mariah. She might be your biological daughter, but she is like a daughter to me also. Thank you for always loving and supporting me, even though I was a complete pain in your butt. You really are a life saver, and I definitely would NOT be here today, if it weren't for you.
Kimberly, thank you for being the woman my brother loves. Thank you for being with him, and for always loving and believing in him, even when all you wanted to do was just slap him silly. Thank you for standing by us, and loving us even when we made you crazy, and then for always taking my side against him, especially when I was wrong." AnneMarie laughed as she wiped a tear away, seeing Kimberly's bright smile. "Thank you for taking care of our family, and being the glue that keeps us all together. You are the older sister I have always wanted, my best friend, and my hero.
Nana and Papi. Thank you for always being there for all of us. Thank you for loving and encouraging us, even when all we deserved was a good slap. You stayed up with me all night, so many times. You sat with me when I had a cold, the flu, and a pneumonia. You were there when got my yellow belt in karate, my red and my black. You were there for my first trip to Disney Land, my first dance classes, and the day I learned to drive. You were even the ones who sat with me, holding my arms down so I couldn't scratch when I had the chickenpox. You have been the best parents in the universe, to all of us, and we could never ask for anyone better.
Mariah, thank you for being the adorable little girl you are. Thank you for all the smiles, and hugs and kisses. I have learned so much from you, I can't even begin to describe it. When I moved here 10 years ago for your dad to help raise me, I had no idea that some day I would be helping to raise his daughter as well. Your Daddy may be your hero, but you and your Mommy are mine. I love you more than you know, and like your parents, Nana and Papi and Uncle David, I will ALWAYS be here for you too. You can call me whenever you want, regardless of the time of day, and I will be right here to help. You are my shining star and the inspiration in everything I do. Thanks for being my niece and for always loving me, no matter how much I might mess up. I know there are much better role models in this world for you to look up to, but I love the fact that you chose me. Thank you for that. I love you!
My oldest brother David . . . . . You have got to be the strongest, most amazing person in the world. Just being your sister has taught me that no matter how bad you might think things are, they could always be worse. It doesn't make any difference what you look like, whether your hair is 30 inches long, or totally non-existent. Even when you were in the hospital with 6 months to live, you were always the most positive person I knew. Although, you know, you could just suck it up and finally get married like your baby brother!" AnneMarie joked. "But no matter how stubborn you are, I still love you. You and Tommy raised me well, and Nana and Papi said this morning, that no one could have done better. Thanks for always being there for me, loving me, and pushing me to excel. Thanks for always being a cool older brother, and for taking my side against Tommy. Thanks for keeping all of us grounded, and for teaching me to see the big picture, instead of just what is right in front of me. Thank you for teaching me to soar through life the way that you have, and for always knowing the right words of encouragement to pass on. Thanks for just being you.
And last but certainly not least, my parents. My Mom and Dad who are both up in heaven, I just want to say thank you for being my parents. Thank you for being the best mom and dad in the world, and looking out for me through the hole in the clouds in Heaven. I miss you both so much, and more than anything, I wish you could be here with me today. Thank you for giving me my family, who I love more than life itself. I don't know where I would be without any of you guys. So to my family, thank you! I love you all so much!
Anyway," AnneMarie smiled, looking back to her fellow graduates, "it is now time to say good-bye to our friends and family as we move ahead with our lives. Never forget how they've helped and influenced you. Find time each day to reflect upon the events of that day and what you plan to do the next. Don't dwell on failures of the past, but look ahead to what you can do in the future. If I looked back at all my failures throughout my life so far, I'd probably go crazy. But then a lot of people already think I am crazy, but that's all right, I probably am. Keep in mind everyone has his or her own peculiarities. Mistakes are meaningless unless you learn from them.
Four years ago, we came together as strangers, but today we are leaving here as family. We have survived countless assignment deadlines, sat through numerous lectures, endured the stress of examinations, and coped with the insecurity of trying something new at every turn, only to rise up again and again after our failures. This has not been a competition. Instead, it has been a shared journey of which we can all feel very proud to have been a part of.
Remember that first grade teacher who stubbornly insisted that you write your ABC's until they were perfect? Or the agony of washing your hands before you eat? Or how hurt you were when your first puppy love rejected you and went for someone else? Or the stage fright you experienced when you were asked to sing "Beauty School Dropout"? Yes, we've all had our turns. We've had our share of winning. We've had our share of losing. We've learned from our mistakes. And these lessons are the strongest rocks of our foundation.
So, we've finished high school. What now? It's a big world out there. Although we might not be totally ready to meet society's demands, we are certainly willing to give it our best shot. We stand, as if before a row of thousands of doors, each door different from another, each potent with opportunities for every one of us. We must try at these doors, opening them to look at what lies within. Passing through some doors, we will have to set aside fear and prejudice before we may advance. To unlock others, we will have to uphold our sense of justice and dignity. If a door suddenly shuts before us, we cannot be discouraged, but instead must look for the sudden opening of another. Our adulthood, so long anticipated, has now arrived. We have grown up. We must seize our future and taking it into our own hands, do with it what we will, striving towards excellence. We join forth now, in hope and inspiration, all of us sharing our common legacy - all of us, proud Tigers of a little town in California known as Angel Grove.
Now, before I say my final farewell, I would like to share with you the inspirational words of Theodor S. Geisel, otherwise known as that famous Dr. Seuss:
"Today is your day.
You're off to Great Places!
You're off and away!
You have brains in your head
You have feet in your shoes
You can steer yourself any direction you choose.
Your mountain is waiting.
So… get on your way!"
Congratulations, once again, fellow graduates of 2009. We all have the potential to reach the sky and touch those stars. All we have to do is believe. I wish you all the best. Thank you."
End Flashback ---
"Are you nervous?" Kimberly asked.
"Only very!"
"It's going to be ok though . . . Everyone is nervous the fist day. It's the second scariest day of your life." Tommy told her. "Actually, make that the third . . ."
"What are the other two?" Kimberly asked.
"The day you get married, and the day your first baby is born."
"So this is nothing then . . ." AnneMarie commented.
"I guess . . ."
But when we leave this year we won't be coming back
No more hanging out cause we're on a different track
And if you got something that you need to say
You better say it right now cause you don't have another day
Flashback ---
"Ladies and Gentlemen, Friends, Family, and other Honored Guests . . . We are gathered together this fine afternoon, to witness and celebrate the marriage of Kimberly Anne Hart and Thomas Lynn Oliver." Tommy stood at the alter at front of the packed church, gazing happily into the eyes of his beautiful bride, Kimberly Hart. The woman who always brought a smile to his face, caused the butterflies to soar through his stomach, put the stars in his eyes, and held his heart in the palm of her hands. " If there is anyone here today, who has reason to believe that this couple should not be married, let them speak now, or forever hold their peace." There was a brief silence before the minister continued, as Kimberly and Tommy continued to simply gaze lovingly into each other's eyes."
"Kimberly . . . you are the most beautiful, most amazing person I have ever met. You've been a wonderful friend to me, since the day we met. And every time I look at you, I fall in love all over again. You are such an amazing woman! Always following your dreams, and encouraging me to do the same. Eight years ago, I moved to Angel Grove, knowing noone. But then I go compete at this karate match, and there you were. Standing there, at your best friend's side. Just like you've always done. Karate tournaments and stock car races bore you to death! Yet whenever one of our friends was competing in anything, there you were! You've always stood by my side, no matter what was going on, or what else you would rather have been doing. You've loved me and supported me since day one. You've stood by me even when it was really hard for you. If I were you, I would have given up on me 8 years ago! Yet here you are today. Standing with me, smiling, making me feel like I'm the only guy in the world. You are everything I have ever dreamed of, and more. You are my best friend, my rock, my strength, my hope . . . . .You are my entire world! You have been everything to me! And I am so lucky to have you in my life! I don't even want to imagine where I would be without you. You stole my heart, the second I looked at you . . . We have been through so much together . . . High school, a coma, some cuts, bruises, broken bones . . . . .We've had our ups and downs, our moments of greatness and our years of separation. Yet somehow we've always managed to come out not just on top, but together . . . I never in my wildest dreams, ever imagined myself falling in love, much less falling in love with someone like you . . . . . Kimberly, you are the absolute best thing that has ever happened to me! And I am so madly and deeply in love with you! You are completely perfect for me; you are everything I have ever wanted out of life . . .You've helped me through school, through several injuries, you've sat with me in the hospital, and done everything in your power to help bring back my memory . . . . . . You became a parent with me when my sister moved here from Arizona . . . . . .You taught me to love, to have patience, to not be such a menace . . . . . I am everything I am, because of you! . . . Even when we were thousands of miles and continents apart, living separate lives, I knew that someday, you would come back to me . . . . . . Kimberly . . . . . You are the most special, and the most important person in my life, and I am so glad that you chose to be with me . . . Kimberly, I promise to always love and support you. To cherish you and honor you. To take care of you, and spend every day making you smile . . . You know I will always spoil you rotten, every day, for the rest of your life. Just like I always have . . . . .I am so happy when I am around you . . . Just holding you, makes my heart race with joy . . . . .You will always be my number one girl. The one person I can always count on, and can't wait to be with when we're apart . . . . . I know I'm rambling, but I want you to know just how much you mean to me. I will always stand by your side, through richer and through poorer, through sickness and through health . . . . . My life isn't worth living, without you in it . . . .We've spent most of the last eight years together, and now we're looking toward 80 more . . . Thank you for always standing by me, believing me, and being the woman I love . . .You are the most amazing woman I have ever met, and I am so happy and excited to marry you. I love you so much Kimberly Hart! And I always will."
" . . . . . You just had to go and make me cry, didn't you?" Kimberly said smiling as she wiped away her tears. "Thanks for making me lose a bet . . ."
End Flashback ---
"Are you ready?" Kimberly asked.
"Am I supposed to be?"
I don't think you ever really can be." David said as he slid his arm around his little sister. "I'm really going to miss you kiddo."
"I'm really going to miss you too."
"What time do your classes start?" Christine asked.
"9:00."
Cause we're moving on and we can't slow down
These memories are playing like a film without sound
And I keep thinking of the night in June
I Didn't know much of love, but it came too soon
And There was me and you, and then it got real blue
Stay at home talkin' on the telephone and
We would get so excited, we'd get so scared
Laughing at our selves thinking life's not fair
Flashback ---
"Tommy, hurry up!" Christine shouted up the stairs to her son. "You've gotta get out of here if you're going to get both AnneMarie and yourself to school on time!"
"Yeah really Tommy, let's go!" Kimberly echoed as she pulled AnneMarie's hair into a pony tail. "Don't worry AnneMarie, going to school in Angel Grove isn't that much different than Arizona. It'll just be a little like going to your first day of school all over again, only you're third grade instead of Kindergarten this time."
"You promise?" AnneMarie asked in a nervous voice.
"Pinkie swear."
End Flashback ---
"So you've got 30 minutes." David told her.
"Yeah . . ."
"Do you know where your classes are?" Christine asked.
"Yeah, David and I found them all yesterday."
"Ok . . . Well . . ." Kimberly started, but her voice trailed off as everyone stood in silence, just staring at the school.
"We should say our goodbyes. We don't' want to make AnneMarie late." Daniel suggested.
"Dad is right." Tommy agreed.
"AnneMarie, I'm really going to miss you!" Kimberly said hugging her tight. "It's not going to be the same without you around all the time. What in the world am I going to do without you?"
And this is how it feels
As we go on, we remember
All the times we had together
And as our lives change, from whatever
We will still be, friends forever
Flashback ---
"So Tommy actually remembered to pick up Nana's present?" AnneMarie asked as she helped Kimberly unpack boxes of merchandise, and set up new displays in her store.
"Yeah. But you should have seen him. He must have come and gone like five times. He kept saying 'I'm forgetting something' and running out, then coming back in looking all scatter brained. It was really cute." Kimberly smiled.
"Tommy looking all scatter brained?"
"Nah, Tommy looking all scatter brained, while trying to pretend he wasn't forgetting anything."
"Now that is funny!" AnneMarie laughed.
"He was just so cute. Tommy refused to admit he was forgetting anything, it was all I could do to keep from laughing. He looked so cute and confused. You should have seen the look on his face."
"Was it like the one when he forgot to pick Mariah up from David's while he was over there, then David and Sam brought her home later?"
"Yeah, that's the look."
"That 'I am so stupid and totally busted, my wife is going to laugh as she kills me' look?"
"Exactly!"
"Oh my gosh! That was so classic! Talk about a great look!" AnneMarie said laughing.
"It was like the day he first asked me out."
"My big brother, the nervous nut case."
"He's so cute though! He never wants to do or say the wrong thing,"
"so he stressed for weeks, stumbles over the words, and practically drives everyone nuts when he knows things are already going to be perfect in the end." AnneMarie finished for her.
"He's so cute when confused!"
"And it's not like it's very had to confuse him either. With Tommy's memory, he would forget his head if it weren't attached."
End Flashback ---
"I have no idea! I'll miss you too Kim. You'll always be my best friend though."
"You had better call me every day."
"Yeah, phone bill!" David said laughing.
"Ok ok, write me every day."
"I will, I promise. But you have to write me back."
"Oh you know I will."
"Come here Honey." Christine said reaching for AnneMarie next.
"Nana, I love you so much!"
"I love you too! I can't believe you grew up though. I still remember the day you moved in with us."
So if we get the big jobs and we make the big money
When we look back now, will that joke still be funny?
Will we still remember everything we learned in school?
Still be trying to break every single rule
Will little brainy Bobby be the stockbroker man?
Can Heather find a job that won't interfere with her tan?
I keep, I keep thinking that it's not goodbye
Keep on thinking it's a time to fly
And this is how it feels
Flashback ---
"AnneMarie, where would you like me to hang this picture?" Tommy asked as he helped AnneMarie unpack her boxes and set up her new bedroom.
"It's your house." AnneMarie answered softly.
"Sweetie, come on. You live here now too, and this is your special room." Christine smiled as she hung some clothes up in the closet.
"AnneMarie, I know you miss your mom. And I know it's going to take a while for the hurt and sadness to go away, but we want to help you." Kimberly said softly as she sat down on the bed next to the little girl. "We all love you Sweetie. All we want is for you to be happy."
"I miss my Mommy." AnneMarie said as a tear rolled down her cheek.
"Oh Honey . . ." Christine said as Kimberly pulled AnneMarie into her arms.
"I know . . ." Kimberly said softly as she held AnneMarie close.
"Here, let me." Tommy said in a gentle voice as he moved to sit down next to Kimberly. "AnneMarie . . . We love you so much. And we know you miss your Mommy very much. But Sweetie, you have to remember the good times."
"Tommy is right. Think of all the fun we had with her this summer. Like the day we went to the park, or taking her shopping at the mall . . ." Kimberly reminded her. "Your Mommy loves you so much, and she is so proud of you, and wants you to be happy."
"You know what your Mommy said to me the day before the angels came and took her to heaven?" Tommy asked. AnneMarie sniffled as Kimberly held her tight. "Your Mommy told me that you are the most special little girl in the entire world, and that she loves you very very much."
"And you know what else she told us?" Kimberly asked as AnneMarie slowly raised her head until their eyes met. "Your Mommy told us that you are her angel . . . God sent you here, to watch over her. You were her guardian angel, and she loved you so much, and wants you to be happy. That's why she found Tommy . . . Your Mommy wanted you to have everything you deserve, and she did everything in her power to help you get it."
"Your Mommy loves you so much Sweetie . . ." Tommy smiled as AnneMarie met his eyes. "And she wants you to be happy. So how about we wipe these tears away, hang up your picture, and then go get some ice cream. How does that sound?"
" . . . Can I have chocolate?" AnneMarie asked in a small voice, with a sad sniffle.
"You can have the biggest chocolate ice cream you want."
"Ok . . ."
"Come on, let's wipe those tears away and get ready to go have some fun." Kimberly smiled as she released AnneMarie completely from her arms.
"Hey guys, here's another box." Daniel said, carrying another box into AnneMarie's new room.
"Set it wherever you want Dad, we're going for ice cream." Tommy told him.
"You three go." Christine spoke up. "Go take AnneMarie out to have some fun. Your Dad and I will finish up in here."
"Mom, you don't have to do that."
"Tommy, take your sister and Kimberly, and go have some fun. You three deserve it." Christine said with a smile, then left the room with Daniel right behind her.
"Here you go Sweetie. How about we put this picture of your Mommy right here next to your bed so you can see her all the time." Kimberly said, reaching for the picture on the bed next to her.
"Ok . . ." AnneMarie agreed softly as Kimberly set the picture next to the bed.
"Your Mommy is beautiful, isn't she?" AnneMarie slowly nodded her head.
"You look a lot like her." Tommy smile as he ruffled his sister's hair. "Come on AnneMarie, let's go get that ice cream."
EndFlashback ---
"I know. I miss home already."
"You take good care of yourself, and make sur to call me. I don't care how much it costs me. Just be sure to call."
"Ok." AnneMarie agreed with a gentle laugh.
"We're going to miss you Kiddo." Daniel said hugging her tight.
"I'll miss you guys too. But I'll be back for Thanksgiving and Christmas."
"Yes you will, because Christine and I already bought your plane tickets."
"Thank you! You guys are the best!"
"I got your spring break ticket." David told her. "And Kim and Tommy picked up the summer."
"Man, you guys really can't live without me, can you?"
"Nope!" Tommy said confidently.
Will little brainy Bobby be the stockbroker man?
Can Heather find a job that won't interfere with her tan?
I keep, I keep thinking that it's not goodbye
Keep on thinking it's a time to fly
And this is how it feels
Flashback ---
"I wish you weren't leaving." AnneMarie said hugging Kimberly as they stood in the airport, awaiting Kimberly's departure to Milan. "I love the two blockheads, but I don't' wanna be the only girl again!"
"Don't worry," Kimberly laughed. "I'll be back soon. But you have Trini while I'm gone, and Tommy is afraid of her! So you've actually got it pretty easy!"
"You're right, Trini will beat him up for me."
"Either her or Jason!"
"I'll miss you."
"Call me, ok? And take are of your brothers. Make sure they behave. You're in charge now, ok?"
End Flashback ---
As we go on, we remember
All the times we had together
And as our lives change, from whatever
We will still be, friends forever
La, la, la, la; yeah, yeah, yeah
La, la, la, la, we will still be friends forever
Flashback Number Two ---
"I hope its ok, I was so scared yesterday, I called Kimberly and begged her to come home." AnneMarie said as she stood in Tommy's hospital room, after his stock car accident.
" . . . . . Its fine . . . . ."
"Are you sure? Because I can ask her to leave."
" . . . . . No . . . . . Will you do something for me though?"
"Anything."
" . . Just sit with me . . ."
"Of course." AnneMarie said climbing onto the bed next to him. "I'm really glad you're ok!"
" . . . I'm always ok . . . . ." Tommy said as AnneMarie snuggled up next to him. " . . . . . . . . . You're the most important person in my life right now. And nothing is ever going to change that . . .You come first . . ."
"Its funny, the only girl I've ever see, curled up with Tommy, is Kimberly . . . . ." Christine smiled.
"Well I'm number one now." AnneMarie told her. "He likes me better."
End Flashback Number Two ---
Will we think about tomorrow like we think about now?
Can we survive it out there? Can we make it somehow?
I guess I thought that this would never end
And suddenly it's like we're women and men
Flashback Number Three ---
"One of my models just backed out of the New York show and I've gotta either find a new size 3 model, or spend all week stressing, hoping the clothes can all be altered in time for the show. And that's assuming I can get another model." Kimberly said, with a sigh as she sat on her bed in Milan, working on a sketch.
"Sweetie, why don't you model for the show?"
"I can't . . .But I was thinking AnneMarie could . . ."
"Why can't you? You'd be great Kim!"
"I'm already completely stressed out over the whole thing. I don't need any more stress. Its not healthy."
"Kimberly, just try to relax. Everything is going to be fine."
"But I still need another model."
"What about Trini?"
"I need someone who wears size 3."
"Aisha?"
"Tommy . . . Please Honey? I really need AnneMarie! Just this one, I promise! She's perfect! Tall, tan gorgeous . . . Please Tommy, she's exactly who I need."
"I don't know Kim . . . I think she has tests next week."
"She can take them early. Please! I'm really working hard to get back to Angel Grove, and I need this show to go perfect! It'll mean a lot to me. Please Tommy! Just this once. Just let AnneMarie be in the show . . ." Kimberly begged, knowing that Tommy just had to say yes.
End Flashback Number Three ---
"Mariah, say goodbye to Auntie AnneMarie." Kimberly said.
"Come here short stuff." AnneMarie said, picking up her niece. "I'm really going to miss you Munchkin."
Will the past be a shadow that will follow us round?
Will these memories fade when I leave this town
I keep, I keep thinking that it's not goodbye
Keep on thinking it's a time to fly
Flashback ---"Can I hold Mariah?" AnneMarie asked, standing next to her brother in Kimberly's hospital room, staring at the beautiful new baby in his arms.
"Of course." Tommy answered, smiling gently as AnneMarie moved close to him, and took her new niece from her brother's arms.
"Tommy . . . She's so beautiful . . ." AnneMarie smiled at the baby in her arms, then looked up at her brother, then to Kimberly. Kimberly smiled as Tommy gently placed a kiss on the top of her head as they watched the two girls together. "Hey Mariah . . . I'm your Aunt AnneMarie . . ." AnneMarie said softly. "I hope you know, your parents are completely crazy! But at least I'm semi-normal . . ."
End Flashback ---
"I'll miss you too." Mariah said as AnneMarie held her niece in her arms.
"Give me a hug and kiss."
"I love you Aunt AnneMarie."
"I love you too Mariah. You be good for your Mommy and Daddy, ok? And I'll bring you presents when I come home."
"You promise?"
"I promise! And maybe if Daddy says ok, I'll take you to Disneyland to see Mickey Mouse."
"Really?" Mariah asked, her eyes getting wide.
"Really! So you be good, ok?"
"I will."
"Ok. Give me one more kiss."
"Come see Grandpa Sweetie." Daniel said as he reached for Mariah.
"AnneMarie, I need a hug!" David said, tapping his food impatiently.
"Well what if I don't want to hug you?" AnneMarie said sarcastically.
"Fine! Stay in London! See if I even write to you!"
"Fine, I will!"
"Get over here, you Brat!" he said laughing as AnneMarie cracked up.
"Hey hey, no crying!" Daniel said as Kimberly wiped away a tear.
"Honey! You promised!" Tommy said, slipping an arm around his wife, and kissing the top of her head.
As we go on, we remember
All the times we had together
And as our lives change, from whatever
We will still be, friends forever
Flashback ---
"Mariah, who's your hero?" Darlene asked.
"Daddy . . ." Mariah smiled, as she stood with AnneMarie and David.
"I am my daughter's hero . . ." Tommy echoed as his eyes began to mist. "You have no idea what it's like to be a hero until you hear the words come out of the mouth of the one person on the planet, that you know loves you unconditionally . . . I have never thought of myself as a hero but that's what I am to my daughter . . . And the reason why . . . I'm Daddy . . . The simplest most logical reason in the world. I'm Daddy . . . But you know . . . My daughter is my hero . . . he's always excited to see me, and has a way of always making me feel better, without even trying. So Princess, thank you. I love you Sweetheart . . . And last, but definitely not least . . . The absolute most important person in the world to me . . . The one person I have always been able to go to with my problems, who has always understood me, and never once judged me. The one person I have always been able to rely on for everything. The person who has always held my heart, in the palm of her hand. The one person who I absolutely can not live without, who encourages me to keep on going, no matter what the cost . . . All I can think to say right now, is thank you, to the most absolutely amazing wife a guy could ever ask for . . . I couldn't have done any of this without you." Tommy said, gazing into Kimberly's eyes. "It should be you with the PhD, not me."
" . . . Tommy . . ." Kimberly said softly, as she gently wiped the tears from his eyes.
"Wow Tommy, you're crying!" Jason said, playfully slugging his best friend. "And you made your wife cry too!"
"Jason, they're human!" Aisha laughed, playfully slugging their friend.
End Flashback ---
"I know, I'm sorry." she said, briskly wiping at her tears.
"Kiddo, I'm going to miss you so much!" David said, hugging his sister as tight as he could. "I don't know what I would have done without you these last few years."
"I'm going to miss you too. Don't you dare go get sick again, while I'm gone!"
"I'll try my best not to. We've been lucky so far, right?"
"Extremely!"
"I'll be ok. But you have to take care of yourself too."
"I will. Beat Tommy up for me while I'm gone, ok?"
"I'll make you proud!"
"You better."
"I love you Baby Girl!"
"I love you too Big Brother! Thanks for always being here."
"Right back at ya!" David said proudly. "You're the best little sister on the planet, you know that?"
"I try to be."
"Be good while you're here. Kick some British butt for me. Show them that us Americans are better than them."
"I'll do my best." AnneMarie said laughing.
"Just don't do anything too stupid. Be safe."
"Don't do anything Tommy would do." Daniel told her.
When you love someone so deeply
They become your life
It's easy to succumb to overwhelming fears inside
Flashback ---
"Come on Kim, come bungee jumping with me." Tommy said as she looked through the brochure in her hands.
"No way! You're crazy!"
"Come on! It'll be fun!"
"Tommy, I am NOT jumping off Angel's Bluff with only a thin rubber band keeping me from pending doom! It's asinine!"
"It'll be fun. And it's not a thin rubber band Kim."
"No way!"
"We'll jump together."
"You're crazy!"
"I think it's romantic."
"You call jumping off a cliff to your death romantic? Have you lost your mind!"
"Kim, really. It'll be fun."
"Tommy, I am NOT jumping off a cliff! I'm sorry, but self inflicted suicide just isn't appealing to me."
"You don't think that us jumping off the bluffs, strapped together is romantic?"
"You can't possibly be serious."
"Kim, come on. Jumping together is one of the most romantic things we can do."
"Oh really? Because I can think of a lot of much more romantic things we can do, that do NOT involve my impending doom."
"Kim . . ."
"NO! I am NOT bungee jumping with you! And I would really rather you not do it either!"
"Why not?"
"Because I am not interested in risking my life for a cheap thrill."
"You really don't want to jump with me?"
"No, I don't. I love you, and I would do just about anything for you. But I'm sorry Tommy, jumping off the bluffs just isn't my thing."
"So you're going to let me do it alone?"
"As long as I don't have to watch, more power to ya!"
"Kim . . ."
"No! I'm sorry! I'm not jumping and I don't want you to either, but I can't stop you. Do what you want Tommy. I just hope you don't regret it later."
"Rocky Adam and I are going on Saturday."
"So I know 3 guys without a brain. Joy!" Kimberly laughed.
"I wish you would come with me. I think it would be really romantic to be strapped together while taking a huge risk."
"I risk my life enough dating you, I don't need to jump off a cliff with only a giant rubber band keeping me from being killed."
End Flashback ---
"Gee, thanks Dad!" Tommy said sarcastically.
"I love you AnneMarie. Bring me back cool presents."
"I will. You better get me cool presents too though."
"You've got yourself a deal Kiddo!"
"I love you David!"
"I love you too AnneMarie. I'll miss you!"
"I'll miss you too."
"Ok move, my turn! She's my sister too!" Tommy said, playfully shoving at David as he hugged AnneMarie goodbye, and kissed her cheek.
"Ok, ok! Geez, don't fight over me!" AnneMarie said laughing as her brothers playfully shoved each other.
"Hey, I need a hug from you, or there is no way I am letting you stay here! I'll drag you back home right this second!" Tommy said jokingly.
"I'm going to miss you so much Tommy!" AnneMarie said, hugging him as tight as she could.
"I'm going to miss you too. You're the best little sister anyone could ever ask for."
Blindly I imaged I could
Keep you under glass
Now I understand to hold you
I must open my hands
And watch you rise
Flashback ---
"When is Tommy coming home? AnneMarie asked as she sat at the kitchen table, eating breakfast with David.
"Beginning of next week."
"Oh."
"He has a race today and then another on Saturday. But when i talked to him last night, he said he would be back either Sunday or Monday."
"Where are they racing?"
"They're in Omaha today. Tomorrow they are traveling to Daytona and have practice on Friday, and races on Saturday."
"So they're coming home after that?"
"Yeah. The next two weeks the races are in Malibu."
"Nice."
"So Tommy will be back for at least a couple of weeks."
"That's good. I have a karate meet in two weeks, and I was hoping maybe he could be there this time."
"Did you put it on the calendar?"
"Yeah."
"Ok. I'll mention it next time he calls. But you can count on me to be there."
"Thanks David." AnneMarie said, giving him a half smile.
"Don't mention it. You know I'll always be there."
"I know . . ."
"I feel like hitting the gym for a while, you want to come? I was thinking we could work out together today."
"Sure. I'll go change as soon as I finish eating."
End Flashback ---
"Yes she is!" David agreed.
"And you are the best big brother! David too!"
"Thank you!" David said smiling.
"You guys are the best parents in the world! I still miss my mom and Dad, but you guys raised me just as much as they did . . ."
"More like you raised them!" Daniel joked.
Spread your wings and prepare to fly
For you have become a butterfly
Fly abandonedly into the sun
If you should return to me
We truly were meant to be
So spread your wings and fly
Butterfly
Flashback ---
"Let's just forget about girls for a while." Tommy said as he laid sprawled out on the couch with David in the recliner next to him.
"You sure you want to do that bro? I mean Sophie can be a total pain in the butt, that I just can not stand sometimes. But at least you still have some sort of home with Kimberly."
"Are you kidding me? Kimberly won't even talk to me! I flew all the way across the country to tell her that I still love her and want her back, and Kimberly completely blew me off! I pour my heart out to her, and she just shut me down! What the heck! If I had a chance with her, don't you think that we would be together right now? Really David, I don't' think she even cares what happens to me anymore."
"You pour your heart out to a girl, and they just completely shut you down Seriously Bro, they're just not worth our time! Look at Sophie, I tell her that I want to maybe take things one step further, and she breaks up with me. And, it comes out of nowhere! She just suddenly decided to run away."
Did you ever tell her that you love her?"
"No, but I was about to."
"Good! Don't ever say those words to a girl! Trust me, if you say them, it's just gonna hurt like hell when they shove them back in your face."
"Yeah, I imagine it would. Which is why I've never said them. Girls are crazy! They string you along like a marionette slowly sucking the life out of you, then just about the time you actually decide to willing dedicate yourself to their every whim, they toss you away like you're yesterday's garbage."
"Exactly! They aren't capable of a commitment to anyone but themselves!"
"We're better off without them Bro. There is just no pint to torturing ourselves anymore. It just isn't worth it!"
"Which is why I've now given up. I was ready to marry Kimberly when I showed up at her door yesterday. But of course she was way more than willing to throw me away. She couldn't wait to start a fight and rip my heart to shreds!"
"She's just not worth it man. Forget her, you deserve better. If Kimberly wants to throw you away, fine, let her! We'll se who's sitting around regretting their choices later."
"Kim and Sophie just don't understand what they're missing. They're so damn stubborn and set in their own stupid ways, that they can't possibly take a tiny step back to see what is right in front of them."
"Screw it man, I'm done! I've had enough of their stupid games."
"Ditto! Forget women! They just aren't worth the time of day!" Tommy agreed, as a pillow smacked him in the face just before another hit David. "Damn it! What the hell was that for!"
"Forget you Tommy! You too David!" AnneMarie said angerly. "Women are just tows to you two! How dare you! I can't believe you two right now! You are laying here, obviously drunk, and bashing the one person in both of your lives, who loves you the most! How dare you!"
"AnneMarie, what the hell are you talking about! I almost asked Kimberly to marry me yesterday! But all she wanted was a fight! Forget her!" Tommy answered in a very annoyed voice.
"And Sophie dumped me when I suggested we take things to the next level!" David agreed. "Screw women! We're finished!"
"Exactly! Forget them!" Tommy echoed.
"I hate you! I hate both of you!" AnneMarie yelled. "You both are the absolute biggest idiots in the world right now! Forget you!"
"AnneMarie, what the hell is your problem!" Tommy yelled back, angry at her attacks.
"You are! Both of you! You're drunk and being incredibly stupid! I've had it! I'm calling Nana!"
"What! AnneMarie, don't you dare!"
"Why? Are you afraid that she's going to kick your butt? Well guess what big brother, you need it!"
"AnneMarie, we really don't need your attitude right now!" David told her.
"Whatever!" AnneMarie answered, rolling her eyes as she dialed the phone. "Hey nana?"
"Hi Sweetie, how are you?" Christine smiled, hearing AnneMarie's voice.
"Annoyed. My brothers are drunk and being complete jerks! Can I come stay at your house?"
"Let me talk to my mom." Tommy said, holding his hand out for the phone.
"Why are they drunk? Tommy has never gotten drunk before. Or at least not as far as I know."
"I don't know, but they're bashing women. My guess is that David got dumped."
"Lovely!"
"Yes, I think so too. Can I come over?"
"I'm on my way."
"Thanks Nana, you are totally the best!" AnneMarie smiled, then hung up the phone and handed it to Tommy.
"You called my Mom! I can't believe you called my mom!"
"Because I'm sick and tired of you two losers right now, and I need to get out of here. But obviously you are both way too intoxicated to even think straight, so it's not like you can take me anywhere."
"You called my mom!"
"Yeah, and she'll probably kick both of your butts when she gets here too."
"You called my mom, AnneMarie! I'm a grown man now, and you just called my mother to tattle! I can't believe you!"
"I'm not staying in this house with you while you're drunk! This isn't like you Tommy! It's not like either of you! Whatever the hell is going on with you two Bozos, you had damn well figure it out, because like you've always told me, alcohol is NOT the answer!"
"AnneMarie, don't you dare walk away from me!" Tommy demanded, as his sister headed for the stairs.
"Why? So you can y ell at me some more, for something that isn't even my fault? I think not!"
"Nor your fault! Are you kidding me? You've been talking to Kimberly behind my back! And you've been doing it for months! How dare you not at least tell me! I can't believe you!"
"Why should I have told you? It's not like you're even together! Kimberly and I are friends, and it's your fault! So yes, I talk to her! And I'm sorry you have a problem with it, but I just do not care!"
"Why didn't you tell me? Don't you think that I at least deserve to know!"
"And what would you have told me, no? Too bad Tommy!"
"You should have told me!"
"When? You're never even around anymore! I needed someone to talk to, and she was there. She's always been there! It's just too bad that I can't say the same about you right now!"
"AnneMarie Rose, as your parent, I deserve to know!"
"My parent! How dare you Tommy!" AnneMarie yelled. "You are NOT my parent!"
"AnneMarie, we are not done here!" Tommy yelled as she ran for the stairs.
"Yes we are!" she yelled back, then hurried to her room and slammed the door.
"Thomas Lynn Oliver, what in the world is going on over here!"
"I'm not in the mood Mom!" Tommy said sternly, seeing Christine walk through the door.
"Park it young man!" Christine said firmly as David started to get up.
"Mom, NOT now!" Tommy told her.
"You two are going to sit here and talk to me, until I understand exactly what in the world is going on here. Got it?"
"Mom, I'm not 2 years old. I don't need you to try to fix things anymore!" I'm a grown man, I'll handle it!"
"Thomas, you are going to give me that beer you've been drinking, tell me exactly how many others you have had, and then you are going to explain to me exactly why I had to get a call from AnneMarie, asking me to come get her!"
"Mom, I'm not . . ." Tommy started, but was cut off by Christine's angry eyes.
"You are both going to do EXACTLY what I saw, starting right this moment! Now, both of you, hand over the booze right this instant!"
"Mom, you can't fix it this time." Tommy said as he reluctantly handed over his beer.
"That isn't what I asked, and you know it." Christine said as she collected David's beer as well, then carried them into the kitchen to dump them out. "AnneMarie, will you come down here please?"
"Coming!" she called, then slowly headed down the stairs as Christine re-entered the livingroom with a bag of bread sticks she had found in the fridge and popped in the microwave for a few seconds.
"Eat some bread sticks. They'll absorb the alcohol and lessen the hangover."
"Mom, I don't . . ."
"I don't want to hear it Thomas." Christine cut him off. "We're having a family meting right now. Now sit up so I can have some place to sit." Christine helped her son sit up, then took a seat on the couch next to him, as AnneMarie plopped down on the beanbag in the corner. "Ok, now who would like to start?" The three siblings remained silent, staring at anything except each other. "Ok, fine." Christine sighed. "AnneMarie, will you explain to me why you are so upset with your brothers?"
"I wasn't except for them bashing women, until Tommy got all mad at me for talking to Kimberly, then started yelling at me, claiming to be my parent."
"Tommy . . ." Christine sighed.
"Mom, she's been talking to Kimberly for months, and no one ever said a word to me until yesterday!"
"Who told you?"
"Kimberly did."
"Oh . . ." Christine acknowledged. "You talked to Kimberly?"
"Briefly."
"On the phone?"
"I was in Florida . . ."
"Care to elaborate?"
"I went to see Kimberly . . ."
"And?"
"I'm stupid and thought that maybe enough time had passed, and we could possibly get our friendship back. But apparently I was wrong!"
"Tommy, what happened?"
"We talked for a moment and she started a fight. Apparently AnneMarie has been trading secrets behind my back, and Kimberly wants absolutely noting to do with me!"
"Oh Honey . . . I'm so sorry . . ."
"What's your excise?" AnneMarie asked, looking to David.
"Sophie dumped him." Tommy answered. "Go fig, you tell a girl that you love her, and she throws it back in your face."
"So you've decided to get drunk instead . . . Boys, you both know that alcohol isn't the solution to anything."
"Exactly! All it does, is turn you into jerks. Kimberly loves you Tommy. She just needs to figure things out for herself right now."
How would you know!" Tommy snapped.
"You know what Tommy, I'm sick of your right now! You really need to just shut up!"
"You guys, cut it out. Tommy, why did you go see Kimberly?" Christine asked.
"Because after the weekend I had, I realized that I will never love anybody but her, and I'm stupid, and thought that maybe if I saw her and told her that I loved her, maybe we could have another chance."
"Tommy, what happened this weekend?"
"Obviously way too much."
"Care to expand?"
"Not particularly."
"Ok . . . David? What about you?"
"I got dumped What more do you need to know?"
"Ok . . . I think you both need some time to get your heads together. So, here's what is going to happen. AnneMarie and I are going to get out of here. She can stay with me until she's ready to come back home. But until then, I want the two of you to get up, go take a shower, and go to bed. You don't need to be going out anywhere until tomorrow, and you're going to have a pretty bad headache as it is anyway. No, can I trust you enough to stay home tonight and not to out anywhere so you won't be arrested, ro do I need to take your car keys home with me?"
"Mom, we're not stupid." Tommy said in an aggravated voice.
"Fine. AnneMarie, go upstairs and get your things. I'm going to go make sure all the booze is dumped down the drain before we leave." Christine instructed, then watched as AnneMarie got up and headed back up the stairs to her room.
End Flashback ---
"I don't know how I am going to survive without you guys here."
"Well, I know no one is going to survive without you at home. You actually did help raise me." Tommy told her. "And Mariah! Kimberly is already freaking out about losing her best friend. I have no idea how I am supposed to handle both of them by myself! I'm going to go completely crazy!"
"You'll survive Tommy. You'll be the one driving both of them crazy anyway! Go by yourself a dog or something. You're gonna need a new best friend."
"Gee, thanks AnneMarie!" Tommy said as everyone laughed.
"I love you Tommy."
"I love you too. Be good, ok? Don't do anything David and I would do. And don't act to American. The British don't tend to like that."
"But I'm not American! I'm Indian!" AnneMarie said sarcastically. "Well, Native American."
"Yeah, really!" Tommy said laughing. "Just promise me you'll be safe. And that you will call me if you need anything."
"I promise! Take care of everybody for me."
"I'll try. Let me know if you need me to do any butt kicking."
"Ok."
"And AnneMarie . . ." Kimberly started as she stepped up next to Tommy. "Be careful where ever you are. Even when you're at home . . . I ended up being the victim of molestation in my own home, by one of my parents friends . . . We don't want that happening to you."
I have learned that beauty
Has to flourish in the light
Wild horses run unbridled
Or their spirit dies
Flashback ---
"Tommy, I'm coming home. Tell me what city you're in . . ." Kimberly's rushed voice said, through the over seas connection.
"Why, what's going on?" Tommy questioned, hearing the strain in his girlfriend's voice.
"I need to get out of Paris. Just tell me what city you're in, then meet me at the airport."
"I'm in Fort Lauderdale. But Kimberly, tell me what happened."
"I need you Tommy, I need you bad!" she cried, tears streaming out of her eyes and down her face.
"Sweetie, talk to me. Tell me what's wrong."
"I can't be here anymore Tommy, I'm coming home!"
End Flashback ---
"And David and I will kill any Bastard that even dares consider touching you! No questions asked!" Tommy told her.
"Don't be afraid to talk to us." Kimberly cautioned her. "Call us if you need us. Even if it's 2am! We'll be on the next flight out."
You have given me the courage
To be all that I can
And truly feel your heart will
Lead you back to me when you're
Ready to land
Flashback ---
"You can't leave me Tommy. Not even for a second!"
"Kimberly . . . . ."
"Tommy, all it takes is a second . . .Please, promise me you won't leave me!" she begged as tears streamed down her face.
"Kimberly, you're shaking . . . . ." Tommy said holding her tighter. "Oh Honey . . . . . I'm so sorry Kimberly! I'm so sorry!"
"I . . . . . I don't know what to do Tommy . . . . . I hate being scared!"
"Its ok . . .I'm scared too. There are some seriously sick people in this world, but they're never going to get near you again. I promise Kimberly! I wont' let them!" he said gently stroking her hair.
End Flashback ---
"Thanks guys! I love you all so much! I'm really going to miss you!"
"We already miss you!" Christine told her.
"Thanks for everything Tommy! I'll call you as soon as I finish my classes today."
"Ok. Have fun! And try not to miss us too much."
"I will. I love you!"
"I love you too!" Tommy said hugging her tight, and kissing the top of her head.
"You'd better get going AnneMarie, or you are going to be late for class. " Christine told her.
Spread your wings and prepare to fly
For you have become a butterfly
Fly abandonedly into the sun
If you should return to me
We truly were meant to be
So spread your wings and fly
Butterfly
Flashback ---
"Good morning Miss. Payton, Mr. Oliver." Mr. Joel smiled as Tommy and AnneMarie hurriedly entered the school office. "Late again I see."
"Sorry." Tommy mumbled as he took the offered clipboard and quickly signed AnneMarie in.
"I see this is a family ritual?"
"Sorry Mr. Joel." AnneMarie smiled.
"Miss. Payton, you are in the 3rd grade. Can't you get your parents to drop you of, so your brother doesn't constantly make you late?"
"I am her parent." Tommy offered in an annoyed voice as the school secretary handed AnneMarie a hall pass.
"Mr. Oliver, you really should consider getting to school on time every once in a while. It'll surprise the heck out of your teachers. I promise."
"Mr. Joel, while I do appreciate your concern, it is Monday morning, it's early, I haven't slept in days thanks to my girlfriend dumping me and ruining my great weekend, I"m not in a good mood, and I still have to go face Mr. Kaplan over at the high school. Couldn't you just let up a little? Just this once?"
"I'm sorry Mr. Oliver, but if you value your education at all, you would make it a point to be on time."
"AnneMarie . . ." Tommy sighed, turning to his sister. "Have a good day, ok?"
"Ok. Bye Tommy. I love you."
"I know." he answered, forcing a half smile, then turning and leaving the office, avoiding Mr Joel's scowl as he passed. Once in the hallway, Tommy reached for his cell phone, and quickly dialed a number.
"Thank you for calling Angel Grove Memorial Hospital nurse's lounge, this is Rose."
"Christine Oliver please?"
"Sure, just one moment."
"Christine Oliver." Christine's cheerful voice greeted a few moments later.
"Mom?"
"Hey Sweetie!" Christine smiled.
"I'm taking you up on that day off from school. I just can't handle it."
"Honey, are you ok?"
"I just need some time . . Will you call me in?"
"Sure. Is there anything I can do to help you feel better?"
"Bring Kimberly back . . ." Tommy mumbled, his voice soft.
"Honey . .. Go back to bed, ok? You could use the rest."
"Thanks Mom."
"I love you Baby. Call me if you need anything."
"Ok . . . Bye Mom." Tommy said, then hung up his phone, started his car, and headed home.
End Flashback ---
"Ok . . . I love you guys. I'll miss you!"
"We'll miss you too kiddo!" David said with a cheerful smile.
"Have fun AnneMarie." Christine told her.
"I will."
"Tell AnneMarie you love her." David whispered in Mariah's ear.
I can't pretend these tears
Aren't over flowing steadily
I can't prevent this hurt from
Almost overtaking me
Flashback ---
"Ammie? When Mommy coming home?" Mariah asked as she played dress-up with AnneMarie.
"Later today. Mommy and Daddy went on a date."
"Date?"
"Yep! They went on a date."
"What's a date?"
"It's when big people go out all alone."
"Why alone?"
"Well, Mommy and Daddy go out alone because they don't really get to spend very much time together without one of us with them. They want to spend some time by themselves."
"What do they do?"
"I don't know, they could be doing anything."
"Do they go to the park?"
"Maybe. Or maybe they went to see a movie."
"What movie?"
"I don't know Sweetie."
"I miss Mommy."
"I know Sweetie. She'll be home soon though. I promise."
"Daddy too?"
"Daddy too." AnneMarie smiled.
"Ok." Mariah agree din a soft voice. "But I miss Mommy."
"Come on Mariah, how about we go to the park. We'll even call Nana and see if she wants to come."
"Really?" Mariah asked, her eyes wide with excitement.
"Really. Let's go to the park."
"Can we get McDonalds and ice cream too?"
"Sure, why not."
"Yay!" Mariah cheered, excitedly dashing toward the phone to call Nana.
End Flashback ---
"I love you AnneMarie." Mariah said proudly.
"I love you too Munchkin! I'll see you guys later." She said smiling as she hugged and kissed everyone one last time, before turning and heading toward the doors of Juliard.
"You raised her well Tom." Daniel said after a long silence, as everyone stood, watching as AnneMarie walked away to her first day of college.
"Thanks Dad . . ." Tommy said softly, as a tear rolled down his cheek. "I just can't believe she's gone. She grew up so fast!"
"Yes she did." Christine agreed. "But she's going to be just fine here at Juliard. You three raised that little girl perfectly! No one could have done better!"
But will stand and say goodbye
For you'll never be mine
Until you know the way it feels to fly
Flashback ---
"'Letter From Heaven'
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you...in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night..."My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented...that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going...you're coming here to me'
AnneMarie looked up at the group gathered in front of her, and gave them a small smile, while taking a shaky breath.
"According to a study done by researchers at Harvard University, Bereaved children are at two to three times greater risk for psychological problems than non-bereaved children. The death of a mother is particularly challenging for children, especially as time goes by. Mothers are often the emotional caretakers and are better able to maintain predictability and routine that are so important to young people. A mother's death may be associated with more emotional and behavioral problems than the death of any other family member. Furthermore, researchers have concluded that young people who have experienced the death of a family member function better if, among other factors, they (1) maintain a strong emotional connection to the deceased person and (2) are part of families that actively cope with the illness or death and provide order, predictability and routine. Researchers have also described that children and teens whose mothers die are three times more likely than the general population to gravitate to either end of the social spectrum. That means they are three times more likely either to (a) be in juvenile delinquent institutions or jails or (b) become great contributors to society.' AnneMarie said, standing proudly before a scholarship committee, giving the speech she wrote about the roughest, yet most defining time in her life.
"There are always some things in life you think can never happen to you. Everything can be going perfect but a little change can make the most dramatic impact. I was seven years old when my mom passed away. Being so young, I had no idea what breast cancer was. I remember sitting by my mom's bed before she died, and listening as she read me stories, or told me about all the things she loved about me, or about my Dad. I had no idea what kind of terrible disease cancer was. All I knew, was that a year before, the angels in heaven had flown down and taken my daddy back home to love with them. And now thy were coming back to take my mommy too. But what confused me the most, was that I couldn't go with her. Instead, I had to stay behind, and move to California to live with my brother.
My mom used to say 'AnneMarie Rose, you are my Angel.' I was my mother's little angel. She always told me that the day she adopted me, was the absolute happiest day of her life. Mama said that she had always dreamed and prayed for a little girl, and that God had sent me to her for Christmas. She loved me more than anything. My mother had always been my best friend. The one I confided in and deeply admired. To me, she was the most beautiful woman alive, and always brought laughter and happiness to everyone she met.
There was nothing I could possibly do, that could ever disappoint my mom. Even though she was sick, Mama always made sure that I was happy and taken care of. Mama knew she was dying but refused to let me become an orphan, or be put in a foster home. She spent the last year of her life doing everything in her power to make sure I would always be taken care of. Mama found the attorney that helped with my adoption, and went in search of my biological parents, to see if she could find some distant family member, anywhere in the world that would possibly consider taking me in. I think one of the happiest day so f my mother's life, was the day she discovered that I had an older brother, who was also adopted, and living with a great family in California. What made her even happier, was their acceptance and eager willingness to take me in. What surprised her though, was that my brother's family didn't want to adopt me. They wanted me to be a part of their family, and to finish raising me when my Mom couldn't. But they oddly enough, weren't interested in adopting me In stead they asked Mama if they could simply be my guardian. Be the family who loved me and raised me, but always leave the rose and honor of parenthood to those who truly deserve it. They wanted my Mom to always be my mother. My brother told my mom that she would always be a huge part of my life, and that he never wanted anybody to try to take her place. She was my mother, and only she deserved that honor. My brother, his girlfriend and his parents spent the last 3 weeks of my mother's life, with us, by her side. They became our family, my family . . .
The night before my Mama died, she called me into her room and had me sit down on her bed. Mama told me that I was beautiful, and that she loved me. She told me that her proudest and happiest moments, were the ones we spent together. Then, for the fist time, my mom cried. She said that just like Daddy, she was going to live with the Angels in Heaven, and that she would always love me and watch over me through the hole in the clouds. Then my Mama gave me this . . ." AnneMarie paused in her speech, holding her left hand in the air. "She took off her wedding ring, and gave it to me . . ." a tear rolled down AnneMarie's face as she stared at the ring. "Mama wanted me to have it to remember her by. She said that I am her pride and joy. I was her reason for living . . . Mama died the next morning, leaving me completely devastated. After spending so much time with her, I came to realize that Mama wasn't just my mom, but my best friend. I cried for weeks after her passing, and hated absolutely everything. I hated school, my family, life . . . All I wanted, was to be with my mom, and it was the one thing that I absolutely could not have.
Growing up without a mom is very hard. But at the same time, even though I was devastated and hated being alone, deep inside, I knew I wasn't. After moving to California, my Nana gave me this poem. She said that my mom had given it to her before she passed away, and wanted me to have it. Nana put the poem in a really nice frame that I kept right next to the picture of my mom on my night stand. It's called 'If Tomorrow Starts Without Me.'
'If tomorrow starts without me, And I'm not there to see,
If the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today,
While thinking of the many things, we didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me, As much as I love you,
And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too;
But when tomorrow starts without me, Please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name, And took me by the hand,
And said my place was ready, In heaven far above,
And that I'd have to leave behind; All those I dearly love.
But as I turned to walk away, A tear fell from my eye
For all my life, I'd always thought, I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for, So much left yet to do,
It seemed almost impossible, That I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays, The good ones and the bad,
I thought of all the love we shared, And all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday, Just even for a while,
I'd say good-bye and kiss you And maybe see you smile.
But then I fully realized, That this could never be,
For emptiness and memories, Would take the place of me.
And when I thought of worldly things, I might miss come tomorrow,
I thought of you, and when I did, My heart was filled with sorrow.
But when I walked through heaven's gates, I felt so much at home.
When God looked down and smiled at me, From His great golden throne,
He said, "This is eternity, And all I've promised you."
Today your life on earth is past, But here life starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow, But today will always last,
And since each day's the same way, There's no longing for the past.
You have been so faithful, So trusting and so true.
Though there were times you did some things, You knew you shouldn't do.
But you have been forgiven, and now at last you're free.
So won't you come and take my hand, and share my life with me?
So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart,
For every time you think of me, I'm right here, in your heart.'
I have been very lucky to have the wonderful family that I do. Before she died, my Mama did everything in her power to make sure I would always be taken care of. My big brothers took me in and gave me everything. There is no one that could ever take my mom's place, but I wouldn't want them to either. Just like I was my Mama's angel, she is also mine. I wrote this poem a few years ago, when I went back to Arizona to visit my parents at their grave site.
Memories all gathered
In all the passing years
The tenderness you showed us
The love that was revered
Each day we see you daily
Within our hearts you live
A gentle touch you gave us
These treasures you did give
So though you aren't with us
You're never far away
Your spirit lives forever
In each of us who stay
What glory in your beauty
What softness in your love
Our special hearts all gathered
With softness from above
You look upon us daily
We feel you standing by
With gentle words you gave us
Our hearts will now rely
Your chair on earth now empty
But memories remain
With thoughts of all your softness
You're gentle as sweet rain
That falls down from the heavens
To soothe our souls with peace
Remembrances of you daily
The love that will increase
So grateful to be part of
The love that was on earth
The softest hands that held us
They gave us so much worth.
I might have grown up without my mom, but I definitely didn't grow up without love. My brother has been the best parent in the world to me. He took over for my mom when she couldn't be there herself. And even though he had never really known her, he always made sure I knew just how much she loved me, and that until I could meet her up in heaven, she would always remain alive in my heart, while watching over me through the hole in the clouds. My Mama is my hero, but so is my brother. Together, they have both made the roughest time of my life into one of the best. And it is because of them that I am here today. My brother has always told me that anything is possible if you just believe. My Mamma was the most beautiful woman in the universe, both inside and out. Throughout my life, there are a lot of things that I will go through on my own, and more than anything, I wish my mom could be here to see. Well, I believe that my Mama is proud of me. Right this moment, I know she is looking down on me from a hole in the clouds, smiling because she is happy that I have made it this far, and grown up to become the strong, smart, and brave woman she always hoped I would be. I can only hope that someday I will be half the woman she was. I will always miss her laughter, her beauty, her smile, and her love. But most of all, I will always miss my Mama. The one person in this world who will always remain alive, even if it is only in my heart."
End Flashback ---
"You really think so?"
"Are you kidding! We know so!" Daniel agreed. "Come on, let's get out of here. We've got a flight to catch."
"Ok . . ." David agreed, turning to follow Tommy's parents as they headed for their waiting cab. "Let's go home."
"You ok?" Kimberly asked as she took Tommy's hand, and started to follow their family to the cab.
"I will be . . ." he answered softly. "What about you?"
"Same . . ."
"Are you worried about her?"
"Very! You?"
"Same . . . You think we did good with her?"
Spread your wings and prepare to fly
For you have become a butterfly
Fly abandonedly into the sun
If you should return to me
We truly were meant to be
So spread your wings and fly
Butterfly
Flashback ---
"Can we go on Splash Mountain?" AnneMarie asked as she walked through Disney Land with Kimberly and the Oliver family, a few days after moving to California.
"Hey Tommy, I'm taking your sister on Splash Mountain, are you three old people coming or bailing?" Kimberly joked.
"I'm in!" Daniel agreed excitedly.
"Uh oh!" Tommy laughed. "Mom?"
"Sure, let's all go." Christine smiled.
"Are you sure you want to go Mom? Dad has that suspicious look on his face again."
"He's pretending to be a child today. Your Father wants to fit in." she laughed.
"Uh oh!" Kimberly laughed "Tommy, your Dad has been acting weird all day, I'm starting to get a little scared."
"Hey, at least he wasn't splashing you with water on Pirates of the Caribbean." Tommy said, looking down at his still damn clothes. "Apparently it's payback time for being his kid."
"Daniel, you are worse than the kids today." Christine laughed.
"Hey, we're at Disney Land. Everyone is a kid here!" Daniel announced proudly.
"Well Mom, it looks like you h ave 3 kids now." Tommy joked as they all got in the Splash Mountain Line.
"Well as long as the two of you good children keep on behaving, I think maybe we can handle one more little devil for a while."
"Are you calling me a Devil?" Daniel protested.
"Mom said it!" Tommy announced, holding his hands up in mock surrender. "I didn't even say a word!"
Later That Night . . .
"These fireworks are awesome!" AnneMarie announced excitedly as the family stood in a crowd by small world.
"Yes they are!" Christine agreed as she licked the ice cream cone in her hand.
"I love watching fireworks." Kimberly commented. "They're beautiful."
"Only half as beautiful as you." Tommy smiled as he tightened his arms around his girlfriend, then leaned down to place a gentle kiss on her lips.
"Hey AnneMarie, how would you like to go on some more rides?" Daniel asked as the fireworks began to wind down.
"Really?"
"Let's go!"
"Cool!" AnneMarie cheered, bouncing with excitement.
End Flashback ---
"Yeah . . . We did perfect."
"So what now?"
"I don't know . . ."
"We still have Mariah . . ."
"Yeah . . ." Kimberly agreed, a smile quickly spreading across her face. "We get to do it all again."
"Only this time . . ." Tommy started. "We'll do even better."
Spread your wings and prepare to fly
For you have become a butterfly
Fly abandonedly into the sun
If you should return to me
We truly were meant to be
So spread your wings and fly
Butterfly
So flutter through the sky
Butterfly
Spread your wings and fly
Butterfly
Late That Night
Reefside, CA - Oliver Voicemail
"Tommy, It's AnneMarie. I just wanted to tell you that I love you. Thanks for everything! I'm going to miss you the most. Tell everyone I said hi and that I love them. And give Kim an Mariah a hug and kiss for me. I love you guys! I'll see you soon."
THE END!
Letter From Heaven
By: Ruth Ann Mahaffey
Poem 2 by: Francine Pucillo
"Graduation; Friends Forever"
© Vitamin C
Vitamin C 1999
"Butterfly"
© Mariah Carey
Butterfly 1997
Thank you to EVERYONE who has read and reviewed, You guys have meant the world to me these last few years. :-)
Daisyz, siriuslydeceased, jedi4jesus19, HRS-04, C2, Stary0706, Cranelove, Datenshi Aoi, Lela, Dolgen, Regan, Pinkie, Luna23, shortie, bexxy, janice, AllHart, Jewl937, punkrock522, Eaglesgirl, The Hippogriff Theory, James Eric Oliver, Clana4ever Goku-lover21, zee, WolfKeeper989, Stary0706, curious george, Lelen, Warstock-Leonhart, Foxfur, Lark, Isha, Ryan T. Morris, Salor Earth, Shaun, AnimeLoverVS, Dee, Pitbossheather, hartfelt, Lil Saiyan, Vegico, Ringmaster, mdawn89, Marisa, Helvetebrann, PinkLightning07, DestroyerDRT, NeonSpeedRacer21, krazymelmo5385, Mystical Illyera, Geller Bing, DrummerGirl76, Chris, pinkranger, Mali, Tammy, iceprincess7133, Empath-Child, Batbabe1, Taylor, andrea, amy, DayDreamBear, Sami, JJ, crimson tide ct, Ludeckeconn26, BabyBash, LysCat, Raptor-Wolf, mo0nlight, SilverRider, craneandfroglover, KimberlyAnnOliver, Dani, Jessiy Rumsey, Krystal, LIZZIE, Carmelita Broome, zenobia mils, David Ray Thacker, Louise, Teri, Angelita, Jud Matos, Nicksgirl333
A very special Thank You goes out to Louise, Angelita, Lyscat, & Teri. You three are all such amazing women! Thank you sooooooooo much for sharing your stories with me! All your love and support has helped me so much as I continue to fight my obsticle. Knowing that I am not alone has been such a huge I don't want to say blessing, but relief. I am definitely not glad that someone else had to go through what I did, but it does help to know that I am not alone. Thank you guys soooo very much for all your love and words of encouragement. You are some of the absolute strongest women there are, and I commend you very much on your struggle and the courage you have to have to keep forging on through life. I know how hard it is, and I wish I was even half as strong as all of you. Thank you soooooo much for the love and support you have given me, I honestly don't know where I would be without you. :-) Also thank you to Nicksgirl, for all your love and suppport, as well as the encouragement and understanding you have shown me. You are all the best, and I love you for it.
Also, a very HUGE thank you to Mystical Illyera, my new webmaster. The website looks completely awesome! Thank you soooooooooooooooo much for all the help!