Only the Beginning Chapter One, Page 1
After the dancing ended for a while, the rest of the family and close friends stayed for the dinner. Everyone was happy and laughing, full of joy! That's what made the evening so special. People were totally relaxed and savoring the moment. Especially Dee and Nathan!
Many were being thanked over and over again for all their hard work and thoughtfulness. Dorothy and Rosemary had sneaked a few telephone calls in to make sure everything was running smoothly and Rosemary was on top of her game! The food, the violinist, Angela's piano playing, and Molly soloing, the help with the decorating, the work Sam and Rick did to prepare and help serve, Lee playing the records, the beautiful and delicious cake baked by Emily, and the little spoof on Bill that Dee arranged with Jane and the Chickadees' shimming around Bill, all of this was very much appreciated and Dee and Nathan made sure they understood just how much!
Dee and Nathan knew they had to catch the train in Hamilton soon. Both of them had their suitcases packed and they were ready to go. They both went upstairs to Dorothy and George's room to change. Dee was a bit shy, but she knew she was now Nathan's wife and there was truly nothing for her to be shy about, but it would take a bit of getting used to.
Not for Nathan. He put his arms around his wife and kissed her passionately, as Dee grew weak. "I love you Mrs. Grant!"
"I love you more Mr. Grant!" Dee smiled.
Both of them had a tight schedule to keep, so they had to pull apart, but just for now. Downstairs, they said goodbye to their friends and family.
Nathan and Dee said goodbye to both Rosemary and Lee, and Bill and Molly.
"I'm leaving the town in your hands Bill, so it better be safe when we get back." Nathan teased.
Bill nodded and then looked at Dee and quipped, "Don't be pulling any more shenanigans Mrs. Grant!"
Looking at Dottie and Rosemary, Dee asked, "How can I ever repay you for having all the ladies' dresses ready, and flowers delivered?"
"Don't you think twice, we are just so deliriously happy that you all looked so stunning!" Rosemary grinned.
"Yes, and so did Opal and Paul! You really outdid yourselves!" Dee hugged them.
Ted was a little weepy to see his chickadee leaving, but Dee reassured him that, "there will always be room in my heart for both of my favorite men!"
Her mother was just so thrilled to see her daughter as happy as she had dreamed of for her and gave her daughter a kiss and hug while Walter warned Nathan to take care of his sister or else.
Nathan had to chuckle, "Or else what?" and they both laughed.
Dorothy told Dee with a wink, that she put some perfumed lotion in her bag for the trip. She whispered that, "It was one of George's favorite scents," so she hoped Nathan would like it too and squeezed her sister's hand.
Little Robert and Roberta were getting tired and almost ready for bed, but they wanted a hug and kiss goodbye from their Auntie Dee. "What about Uncle Nathan, can he hug us goodbye too?" they both asked. That brought a huge smile to now "Uncle" Nathan as he hugged the little ones goodbye.
Emily and Archie were both misty-eyed and Emily reassured them both "Don't worry about Allie, she will be just fine with me."
"Me too!" Archie winked. "I'll be having dinner with them both from time to time."
Nathan and Dee gave them both big hugs and thanked them for looking after Allie.
Allie was waiting for her dad to come to her. As he slowly approached, she couldn't help but run to him. "Dad, I am soooo happy for you! I can't say what's in my heart, but it's flowing over for you and Dee!" she practically cried.
Nathan waved Dee over and no words were necessary as Allie embraced Dee tightly. "You were one of my mom's best friends and she must be happy that you are now going to be," she hesitated and looked pensively, "my new...mom."
Dee took Allie's head in her hands and tears were flowing down both of their cheeks. "I'd be honored Allie, so very honored, if you want to call me mom."
"Yes, yes!" Allie grinned through the tears welling up in her eyes. Nathan wiped tears away too watching the two of them. He reached over and wrapped his arms around them both in a group hug that lasted longer than expected, when they heard a honk.
It was Henry, ready to drive them to Hamilton. "You better get going or you'll miss your honeymoon train!" Bill laughed.
"Good bye everyone and thank you!" Mr. and Mrs. Grant called out as they shut the door.
Only the Beginning Chapter One, Page 2
After the newlyweds left Allie and Emily were home together. It was such an emotional day for them both. Once changed out of their fancy dresses, it felt good to clean up and adorn their nightgowns. Settling in for the night, Allie was relaxed and able to open up to her Oma about her Dad marrying Dee.
"I am so happy for Dad, after all these years trying to start a family with Miss Thornton only to be cruelly rejected, but now falling in love with Dee, I mean mom, and getting married!" Allie shared.
"Yes angel, I am so thrilled too that his heart has been mended and is happier than it's ever been. I see you will be calling Dee, mom, ya?" Oma looked questionably at her granddaughter.
"Oma, she really feels like one to me. I mean, it's not like she can take the place of my mother, you know, but she is very kind and special to me. I know how much dad loves her, and I love her too." Allie smiled as she cuddled on the sofa with her Oma.
Oma was running her hand through Allie's hair while hugging her. "I love her too, angel. She's always been one of Colleen's good friends and I've seen her grow up into this lovely woman who used to play with Nathan, your mom, Dorothy, and Walter. They are like a second family to me."
"Can you tell me some stories about them all growing up together?" Allie asked.
As Allie covered up with a blanket and laid her head on her Oma's lap, while enjoying the flickering of the flames from the fireplace, she listened and smiled to all the wonderful stories that she heard about her mother, her dad, her "Auntie" Dorothy, "Uncle" Walter, and her new mom, Dee. It was a warm and wonderful time, that the two of them just basked in the peaceful and loving moment.
The next morning was Sunday church and it was there that they saw all their friends again still feeling happy but tired from yesterday's wedding. They gathered together for eggs, toast, and coffee at Billees and reminisced about all the good times they had together in the last year. Hope Valley was really a tight-knit town with darn good people in it and the community was hoping it wouldn't lose it's closeness when the town was inevitably going to grow.
Fiona announced that they would hold a town hall meeting that week. With Lent and Easter just around the corner, they knew once it warmed up, Lee's team would be building and renovating across town. Lee had hired Pastor Joseph earlier to be his foreman overseeing the new projects. Already Dottie's Apparel had expanded to include men and boys' clothing. No doubt, Henry was going to expand the oil business, but he wasn't with them to discuss it, as Rosemary saw that he and Dottie had gone off in his automobile for a ride, but they didn't tell her where!
Fiona also needed someone to run and expand the library and of course that would follow a new school first. They needed to hire a dentist as it had been vacant for several years. So much was coming up in the near future that Fiona needed that town hall meeting soon!
Carson and Faith changed the subject to their wedding. They were waiting until after Easter Sunday, which was April 20, so they chose Saturday, May 3rd for their wedding.
"It can't come soon enough!" Carson said.
"Yes, we really want to celebrate with you all, but there's not enough time with our schedule to plan a wedding, so we were hoping we could count on Rosemary to be our planner." Faith looked hesitantly at Rosie.
"Of course, I'm more than happy to help! I love planning events!" Rosemary laughed while Lee rolled his eyes with a half-grin.
"It won't be as big as Dee and Nathan's. Just our friends here." Carson explained.
"Much lower key, but I still want a wedding gown!" Faith exclaimed.
"Yes, but first, I must buy you a ring honey." Carson gave her a quick kiss.
"Never a dull moment here in Hope Valley!" Fiona grinned.
"Who wants to help clean up this place?" Bill asked. Molly nudged him with her elbow.
"That's what you pay Rick and Sam for." Molly raised her eyebrow. "Let's relax today, everybody is tired."
"We promised Paul we'd take him to see his friends at New Hope Orphanage today. So, we're leaving and can't help either" Lee patted Bill on his back.
Bill shrugged and asked Molly if she wanted to go riding. He needed to feed and groom Newton and Sargent and then take them out for a ride. Surprisingly, Molly was game. "I'll go change and meet you at the stable."
"All right then folks, we'll see you all at the town hall meeting later." Bill said as he took everyone's dishes to the kitchen.
Meanwhile, Rick saw Christy at church and asked her if she wanted to go to dinner later that day. "I'd love to Rick."
She ran over to her parents and checked with them that they would babysit and her mother was more than happy to.
"Great, I'll come for you about 5:00, will that be all right with you?" Rick asked.
"Perfect Rick!" Christy nodded.
Rick kissed her on her cheek as they were at church and Christy just smiled. He had taken care of Timi Anne throughout the church service and reluctantly gave her back to her mother as he kissed his daughter on her little forehead. "See you later sweetie!" he told Timi Anne. "You too!" Christy laughed.
Only the Beginning Chapter One, Page 3
It was a pleasant afternoon and quite sunny for a change in the middle of February which usually brought cloudy days and cold wind for the local towns. Henry enjoyed getting out and taking his lady, Dottie with.
So many years he had spent bitter and full of spite for the hand that life had dealt him. The last few months that he was spending with Dottie made a difference, a huge difference and most folk easily saw it in the spring in his step, or the smile that lighted his face when he simply said hello. It's almost as if the old Henry had shed his skin and meta-morphed into quite the gentlemen. Of course, it had been a challenge when Dottie first tried to break through his crusty exterior, but when he allowed himself to let her in, into his heartache, it was only then that she saw a glimmer of the original Henry that was charming and happy.
This made Dottie quite pleased with herself. She hadn't charmed any man since her husband passed, and now she knew she still had it in her. Dottie was just as confident in herself like before. The two of them made quite the happy pair.
Mike Hickam, Henry's trusted foreman, was suspecting something had changed Henry's demeanor and wasn't quite sure just what, until he saw Dottie and Henry together and it dawned on him why. He thought to himself that he too should look for his own 'Dottie', but he wasn't sure who that could be. It would be great to have a woman to take to dinner or go for a walk, but most ladies he knew were already smitten with another man. Maybe he'd meet someone fun and smart, someone like Fiona. Oh well, he'd have to think on this.
Fiona missed having Christy staying with her in her home. She wished she could go ride out and see how she and little Timi Anne were doing. It was too cold to ride a horse, or to walk, so she came to the conclusion that she needed to purchase an automobile. It seemed like most people were going to be learning to drive instead anyways, and she was already ahead of most, as she knew how to drive. Since she couldn't go look for any on a Sunday, she grabbed her notepad and pen to write down an agenda for the town hall meeting instead. Sitting at her kitchen table fiddling with her pen, she stopped to look outside as she saw out of the corner of her eye a shadow walks by. Pushing her chair away she peered out and recognized the shadow. Running to the door, she called out, "Hey Mike!"
Mike abruptly stopped and listened as he wasn't expecting anyone to call to him. There it was again, "Mike!" He looked back and saw Fiona waving at him to come back to her house. Mike's face showed how startled but pleased he was to see her. "Hi Fiona! Did you call me?" Mike inquired.
"Sure did, what are doing, just walking?" Fiona asked.
"Yea, trying to clear my head and get some fresh air."
"Mind if I join you?" Fiona asked.
"Really? I mean, sure!" Mike grinned.
"Let me grab my coat, I can use some fresh air, and company too!" Fiona warmly smiled. "Be right there!"
Back at the Lipinski home, Christy was freshening up for her dinner with Rick. She wasn't sure where they were going since on Sunday with the Cafe closed, and he had been working all afternoon cleaning Billees, so that would be the last place he'd want to go.
"I see you're wearing that pretty pink dress with the fancy crystal buttons and satin ribbons." Maggie was watching her sister getting dressed.
"Do you like it? I hope Rick does! It's our first date!" Christy was so excited.
As Maggie eyed her sister she pouted, "I must admit, my little sister looks quite attractive. Having a baby put some curves on your thin body. I am jealous!"
"Maggie, there are some handsome and sweet soldiers working for Mr. Coulter and one for Mr. Gowen. Somehow, you must come to town with me and maybe you will meet them!" Christy suggested happily.
"Sure thing. Sounds like your prince charming is talking to mother downstairs, listen." Maggie quieted.
"Oh! I don't want her saying anything to spoil our time. I better get down there and rescue Rick." Christy said as she ran down the stairs.
Rick saw her coming and a huge smile stole across his face. He didn't hear anything Mrs. Lipinski was saying, instead he was staring at how lovely Christy looked. "Hello there Christy!" he blurted.
Mrs. Lipinski looked up and realized what she was saying about not staying out too late and being careful had fallen on deaf ears. Her daughter did look beautiful!
When Christy got to the last step, she gave Rick a hug and asked if he wanted to see Timi Anne before they left. "Oh of course," Rick answered happily.
They walked into the living room where she was laying in her playpen kicking her feet and waving her arms. Mr. Lipinski looked up from his book and greeted Rick. "You two are going to dinner," he asked.
"Yes sir, we're going to Romano's Restaurant in Brookfield. Mr. Gowen told me about it and highly recommended it." Rick offered.
"Italian food, eh? Don't find that much around these parts. Well, you two enjoy yourselves and don't you worry about Timi Anne, she'll do just fine!" and he gave his daughter a hug and shook hands with Rick.
When they got in Rick's father's farm truck, Rick looked at Christy and said, "Your dad was nice tonight."
"It's probably because Pastor Joseph and him have been talking. It's helping."
"Christy," Rick began, "You sure do look beautiful!"
"Thank you, Rick. I was hoping you'd like my dress." Christy said quietly.
"I don't think it's just your dress I like Christy, it's you. You are easy to like and I'm really feeling more every time I see you." Rick admitted.
The Italian dinner was just as good as Henry had told Rick. The two of them gazed into eachother's eyes over the candlelight, and held hands, while the soft romantic music played in the background. Once they started talking, they talked about everything and anything just craving to learn more about each other. They were developing a genuine bond not just because of their daughter, but they were actually discovering a sweet, new love developing between them.
Rick even asked Christy to dance and when he held her in his arms, they both felt warmth flowing from head to toe. As they held eachother the tenderness of their bodies together brought Rick to lean forward and kiss Christy. It wasn't just a quick kiss, but a surrendering to love kiss between them both. It was meant to be.
Only the Beginning Chapter One, Page 4
"Oma! Oma!" Allie was calling for her grandmother as she burst through the door. "Where are you?"
"I'm upstairs angel, what's the matter?" Emily answered. She could tell that Allie was upset.
Allie ran up the stairs to find her grandmother hand stitching a button back on her blouse. Oma looked startled and was immediately concerned. "Why are you rushing up here?"
"Oma, I can't' find Ella or Ginger anywhere!" she was panicking. "I was just outside with them playing fetch when Karen called me down the road, so I went down to see what she wanted, but I must've left the fence gate open. I don't see them anywhere!" she collapsed in a heap on Emily's bed. "Why isn't Dad here when we need him!"
"Did you ask around?" Oma checked.
"Yes, no one's seen them. I've been calling and calling, but nothing." Allie started to cry.
"All right angel, let me get my coat on and help you. We need to tell Judge Avery so he can ride around the area. So, call him while I get ready." Oma hugged Allie.
When they got outside, they saw Karen with her mom and dad outside calling for the dogs. They had made enough noise that others were peeking out and asking who were they looking for. Soon, several others were joining in for the search. Lee was in his car and when he saw the group, as he pulled up to his home, they told him the news. He continued on driving around looking for Ella and Dusty.
"Golden retrievers are very friendly, they will come if you call them," Emily informed the search party.
"Please, we need to find them before it gets dark!" Allie was afraid they'd be lost and she didn't want them in the cold alone in the night.
When Bill came riding up on his horse Hero, he divided them into groups of two and directed them to go in different directions. "We only have about an hour before it gets dark people, let's go!"
Bill was worried that the coyotes would be out roaming at dusk and he didn't want the dogs entangled with them. Coyotes can be mean and vicious Bill knew. They had attacked a few sheep and goats out at some farms. When he had done the rounds for Nathan this morning he hadn't seen them, so he didn't know where the pack of them were. He told Emily to stay home and watch for the dogs just in case they showed up, and to leave the fence gate open for them.
"Bill, please be careful, I don't want you to shoot at anything unless you know it's a coyote or wolf. May God lead you." Emily spoke with a hint of fear in her voice.
Allie was with Karen and her family and was crying so hard, she could taste the tears as they trickled in her mouth. Mrs. Landoch wrapped her arm around Allie and reassured her that everyone was looking and it shouldn't take long and they'd all be home safe and sound. Allie and Karen weren't so sure about that.
Lee drove down every road coming in and going out of town and slowly looked between the buildings in town but saw nothing. Only Billees was open at this time so the streets were empty. Back at home, he ran inside and grabbed some lanterns. Dusk was slowly giving into dark. It was a beautiful sunset wrapping the sky in red and had it been any other night he, Rosemary, and Paul would be gazing out their big window enjoying a dinner and watching the sky. Tonight, dinner would be late he was afraid.
Bill rode the country as fast as Hero could take him calling out to the local farm hands letting them know as they milked their cows before heading in for the night, to watch for the dogs. As he continued riding, he came across a group of pesty raccoons rambling through some garbage near a shed, so he scared them away. He also came across a fox lair on the side of a hill. They were more scared of him and Hero and scattered away. He decided to go back slowly and see if he could find or hear anything that might be the dogs. It was getting too dark to see anyways, but he had hoped to find them as he didn't want Allie to worry, or worse have Nathan and Dee come home and not have their dogs waiting for them. He shook his head trying to get rid of that thought and re-focused on the moment. In the distance folks were still calling for the dogs, so he knew they were not found yet.
At home Emily was praying to St. Anthony, the saint of lost things, and pleaded with God to bring the pups home. She never left the window watching for their return.
Lee had handed out the lanterns and before long all over the row houses you could see lights flickering in the night. Just the men were still out as the ladies and children went inside. Allie insisted she'd stay out with Mr. Landoch even though Karen had to go in with her mother.
Bill stopped one more time and just listened. In the far distance he heard the coyotes howling. Thank God he told himself, they are far out there away from the town. Hopefully, the dogs hadn't traveled that far. As he approached the row houses the news was not good. No one had seen the dogs or heard any barking except for the other dogs already accounted for. Bill got off his horse, and went to Allie. Allie was sobbing uncontrollably and Mr. Landoch tried to comfort her but she just couldn't be calmed.
"Allie, I'm sorry we didn't find them, but Ella is a smart dog and she'll find a place for her and Ginger to rest. I'll be sure to look before the crack of dawn I promise." Bill tried to sound convincing.
Allie just broke away and ran into her home sobbing. "Oma, Oma, no one found them!" she cried. Tears were streaming down her face. "I'm so afraid they are going to be attacked by animals or injured and it's all my fault." Oma held Allie tight and told her, "Let's send our guardian angels out to find them and keep them safe for us until morning."
"I sure hope that helps. I just don't know what to do."
Emily told her to change out of her dirty clothes and get her night gown on. We'll have a little soup and hot chocolate to warm up." As she watched Allie go upstairs to change she prayed very hard. "Jesus, I trust in you!" she concluded. Then she went to the kitchen to warm up the soup and chocolate.
As the two of them sat down to eat, they heard thundering of hooves outside. They looked out the window and Bill was there. They jolted upright and quickly opened the door and in his arms were the two dogs both Ella and Ginger!
"I was just taking Hero back to the stable in town, when I heard some rustling in the hay. I grabbed a shovel thinking it was a varmint, but instead, I found these two sleeping in the hay! It was such a relief!" Bill was gushing. "They never heard us calling as we were all out in the country and row houses."
Allie dropped to the floor and hugged them tightly. "Don't you two ever ever leave me again!" she happily scolded them. Their tails never stopped wagging and Allie was being licked over and over again.
"Thank you St. Andrew" Emily said as she looked up. "Thank you, Bill, stay for soup please!" Looking down she said, "Allie, you are all dirty now!"
"So worth it Oma, I don't care!" Allie laughed as she rolled with her dogs now jumping all over her. Only the Beginning Chapter One, Page 5
"Oma, Oma where are you?" Allie burst through the door. This time when Allie came in she was very happy and excited.
"What is it angel?" Emily answered from the back porch where she was shaking out a few rugs. "I hope you have good news this time."
Allie laughed. "I do. Look, we got a postcard from Dad and Mom! It just got here right now. Robert gave it to me when he was delivering the mail."
"Wunderbar! What are they doing Allie?" Emily was so happy envisioning the gorgeous scenery they were taking in from the train. It was February and cold and snowy, but the view through the mountains must have been exhilarating!
"Doesn't look like they are doing too much yet, does it?" Emily put her arm around Allie, "but they are enjoying this trip and being together just like they have longed for."
"I wonder what food they are getting served on the train." Allie asked. "Dad said they are eating good."
"Not my cooking though," Emily laughed. "I'll have to fatten them up when they get home."
"I bet they've made it to Toronto by now, don't you think Oma?"
"Sure, sure." Emily nodded. "I've always wanted to go back to Niagara Falls. When my family arrived here we originally settled in Toronto and we made a quick trip to see the Falls. Allie, they were so amazing! I hope someday you will get to see them."
"So, does dad have relatives in Toronto?" Allie asked.
"Ya, he invited them to the wedding, but it's too far to come here. So, he was going to stop by to visit a few and introduce Dee."
"I'm not too sure they want to be with other people on their honeymoon." Allie blushed as she questioned her Oma. The two of them broke into laughter.
Clara was done helping Minnie with the lunch crowd. It had felt good to be back with people and talking to adults. When Clara announced she was coming back to work at the Cafe, Emily stayed home then, but continued taking bakery orders.
Clara had Michael in the buggy near the kitchen where she could keep an eye on him. She wasn't the only one. Most of the ladies in town would go back to see him and talk to him. Clara was not too happy about that. Michael wasn't getting his rest and being picked up and passed around was making him cranky. So, when the lunch shift was over she took him upstairs and fed him and they both took a nap. When Jesse came home from working at the lumber company, Clara had dinner ready for him, but the upstairs was messy and the laundry was piling up. With Michael out of sorts, that kept both Jesse and Clara on edge trying to make him happy. It was becoming harder for them to adjust to being parents, and for Clara to continue working, but Clara wanted to, so Jesse didn't know what to do. He tried to help clean at night, but Clara didn't want him to wake up Michael. They would both fall into bed exhausted and frustrated.
Minnie shared this with Joseph over dinner one night and Joseph tried to back out of the conversation. Without looking Minnie in the eye, he mustered, "When a mother decides to go to a job, there isn't much a father can do."
Minnie raised her eyebrows and her face gave her away as she said, "Well, Joseph dear, I think I do just fine running the cafe AND taking care of this household, if I don't mind saying so myself!"
"Yes, dear." Joseph said sheepishly, "you're right, you do, just perfectly." he knew to keep peace at any cost, and he'd have Minnie happy, as the saying was true, if Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy!
"But, mama, you don't have a baby!" Cooper retorted. Angela snickered and his mama gave him the eye.
"Cooper's right mama," Angela added.
"I know, I told Clara that Emily was happy to stay on, but she wanted to be out with people again, so she was determined to come back to work." Minnie agreed.
"Heck, all she needs is to join some of the ladies from the social committee and get involved with their activities." Joseph piped up.
"Joseph, my sweet husband, you are so right." Minnie winked at their children, as she always knew with good food and a gushing compliment, she'd have Joseph wrapped around her little finger.
"I could've told you that!" Joseph roared with laughter.
The next morning as Clara came down to help with the breakfast crowd, Minnie thought she hadn't slept a wink all night as her hair wasn't brushed well and she had dark circles under her eyes. One look from Clara told her, 'don't ask'.
Clara kept up with Minnie as best as she could but she was constantly yawning and seemed drained. After the breakfast crowd, the Chickadees came in for a Bible Study that Minnie was leading. Today's Scripture was taken from Proverbs 31: 10-31 about a woman's worth. Every woman in the group loved hearing Minnie explain what that poem meant. Minnie went on to meditate on Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 which talked about a time for everything.
Clara was paying keen attention and slowly she began to understand that there was a time for all seasons of life. This new season for her and Jesse was going to be different. She didn't have to work in the cafe, at least not every day, her time now was to be taking care of her little family! It was as if Minnie had planned this discussion just for her.
"Ladies, I hope you enjoyed our reflection today, but I must get busy for the lunch crowd." Minnie announced.
"Oh, thank you Minnie. I really enjoyed it. I can stay and help you if you'd like so Clara can go upstairs with little Michael for a rest." Janice offered.
Before Clara could say a word, Minnie thanked Janice and handed her Clara's apron. "Now scoot Clara, and don't you worry about a thing. We're just fine." she winked.
Only the Beginning Chapter One, Page 6
Mayor Fiona was hoping most of the residents of Hope Valley would attend the town meeting. She had been waiting until after Christmas and Nathan and Dee's wedding to have everyone's full attention. She didn't want Nathan to miss out, but this couldn't wait.
News had been circulating around the area for some time, that with the new industries coming, towns needed to prepare for the people who would be following looking for work. It was a domino effect which meant more housing, a bigger school, church, and expansion for businesses already established in town, plus new businesses! It was a very busy and exciting time as Mayor, and she wanted to prove not only to herself, but to the town that she was capable, in fact, more than capable to handle this challenge.
Fiona tapped the table on the stage of Billees to bring everyone's attention to her. She asked that Bill, Lee, and Henry would also be present being part of the town board. Of course, any other entrepreneurs, like Dottie, Minnie, Flo and Ned, Drs. Faith and Carson, were expected to attend as they would automatically be part of the town chamber of commerce.
"Ladies and gentlemen, let's all start with a prayer of wisdom from Pastor Joseph." Fiona looked to Joseph who asked everyone to bow their heads as he prayed.
Then, Fiona started, "It is imperative that all of us here in Hope Valley acknowledge that our little town is going to boom in the next few years. I'm determined to keep us a wholesome, happy, and family-friendly town as we've all come to know. However, we must make adjustments as we just can't stop progress. So, I'm requesting help. I need committees to work on various aspects of this growth preparedness. Lee will head up the construction of new housing, a new church, and a new school to begin with, along with expansion of any existing buildings."
Lee took over the meeting from Fiona and informed everyone that he had hired Pastor Joseph awhile ago to be his direct foreman replacing Mike Hikam, and also Matthew when he returned from the war. Both of the men have been checking with other local towns to see how they are dividing up land and planning for future development. "When the snow melts, hopefully in just a few weeks, we'll be surveying land and making plans, then we'll be hustling non-stop."
Henry too spoke up about the oil industry and what it meant for the town. They were going to be very busy too. "Right now, we are in winter time, but come spring we'll be busy digging and laying pipe for flow of oil. I hired Archie Grant to help me make arrangements and work with Bill Avery concerning the legal lay of the land. I have Mike working as my trustworthy foreman who is head over Mark, Luke, and John who also returned from war this year. Come spring, I'll be hiring also."
Mr. Lipinski spoke next informing the town that there had been an early thaw of snow in the mountains as proved by the bulging rivers and tributaries flowing rapidly, so the ranchers and farmers were watching their fields and livestock. If the fields got soaked, that would delay the planting. Any streams running through their grazing land could make for treacherous passing for the herds. Their concern was to build a dam up north to not only prevent some of these problems but to provide electricity. The areas east of there had already established this, but the local area needed to provide this source of energy for the new industries.
Next was Ned who announced that he would be expanding the Mercantile with hardware and household supplies to begin with and would need more help. He had hired Robert to deliver the mail and reported that was working out great. Rosemary piped up that she too had hired Robert to deliver the Valley Voice and also Harper to run the printer for her.
Both doctors thought they would need a nurse and an automobile for emergencies like they just experienced with Christy out in the country. This was the perfect lead to announce that they would need to hire a dentist. The dentist had left when he retired years ago, and since then the town was left to travel to other towns for their dental needs. Fiona intended to resolve this and fill the dental building.
Fiona mentioned the library needed someone to add new books, catalog them, and be there part time to manage. She too would be seeking help at her Nichols and Dimes barbershop and beauty salon.
Dottie shared how she had expanded upstairs with the men's and boy's apparel and that she had hired Virlinda to oversee the arrangement while remodeling of Dottie's was taking place. She also gave a nod to Catherine for her new window display and suggested any other entrepreneurs to hire either of these ladies as they would be very pleased with their talent.
Minnie was happy to say that she had Emily to help out while Clara was taking care of her new baby, Michael. She also reported that Clara might be rejoining her but only one or two days a week. That's when she brought up the new social committee, the Chickadees, and how they have stepped up to the opportunity of providing new skills to the ladies of the town. "It has been a delight to have met these fun loving, compassionate women who have developed a deep friendship and companionship among all of us!"
It was a long meeting, as Bill talked about safety and security with new folks coming in, but gave a shout out to Nathan as being the most dependable and trustworthy Constable he had the pleasure of working with.
Fiona was pleased with those who volunteered to help with the many aspects of expansion, and adjourned the meeting. "Whew," she looked at the board, we certainly have a lot on our plate!
"Don't worry," Pastor Joseph concluded, "with God on our side, who can be against us?"
Only the Beginning Chapter One, Page 7
Nathan and Dee had thoroughly enjoyed their first day as husband and wife celebrating with loved ones and good friends. They were very tired from all their wedding and reception activities, and enjoying visiting with everyone. Now, they were finally alone together and in their sleeper cabin riding on the train to Toronto and then onto Niagara Falls. It was late and yet they weren't quite ready to sleep.
Nathan snuggled up close to his wife and kissed her neck which gave her shivers and she couldn't help but laugh. "Nathan, I'm getting goosebumps!" Dee giggled.
"You my sweetheart, will have more in just a few minutes!" he mumbled as he continued to delight her with more kisses.
"Please, don't stop!" Dee surrendered to their passion as she turned to him.
It was nighttime when the train left the gorgeous Rockies, but they would see them on the way back. Once in a while they left their cabin to eat, so in the dining rooms they saw breathtaking scenery and some wildlife. The two enjoyed their train ride through the unique beauty of prairie lands through Alberta and Saskatchewan provinces. Deer, foxes, beavers, and moose were all seen along their journey. Through Manitoba they were amazed by all the lakes and the deep rich forests.
Nathan and Dee were finally in Toronto and stopped first to get their bridal suite at the Queen's Hotel. The accommodations were luxurious for two Hope Valley folk. They were amazed at what they saw as they opened the door.
As they entered into their room, Dee looked at Nathan and happily said, "I feel like I'm in a dream Nathan! Look at this furniture and drapes!
The deep walnut desk with pen and paper plus complimentary postcards were ready for the taking. A matching dresser and chest of drawers were across from the bed. Pictures of Niagara Falls, flowers, and wildlife. adorned the walls in gold frames. The canopy bed had a satin cream-colored spread with an extra blanket folded across the bottom of the bed. There were attractive wall lights peeking through the fabric covered wall behind the bed. The matching nightstands each had their own lamp and candles. Thick, soft cushions made their chairs very comfy with pillows to match the drapes. They sat by the fireplace that had a fire already started for them.
"Wow!" Nathan agreed with a huge smile. "This is so much better than I had envisioned!"
"Well, I for one cannot wait to take a hot bath!" Dee grinned at her husband.
"Seems I could use one too." Nathan lifted his eyebrows and his gorgeous blue eyes twinkled. "Let's not waste any water, shall we?"
There was quite a lot to do while in Toronto. Not only did Nathan visit his Aunt Sara and Uncle Norman, but also his cousins and their spouses, and their children. He was so proud of showing off Dee, who, after an early dinner impressed them all with her piano playing and singing. It had been such a long time since this side of his family had seen Nathan or Emily. Luckily, he had thought to bring pictures with him of Emily and Allie, even Colleen.
"How's Allie doing with her mother gone?" Aunt Sara asked.
"She's doing just fine now. It took me some time to settle down, but as far as I know now, unless I'm directed to go elsewhere, we're staying in Hope Valley. Just recently I asked my friend, Judge Bill Avery, to draw up papers for me to officially adopt her. The adoption was approved and hopefully when we return, the papers will have been notarized and ready for us to pick up!" Nathan happily shared.
"Right now, she's staying home with Emily. She adores her Oma and they're both happy to be together in Hope Valley too." Dee included.
Uncle Norman looked seriously at Nathan and asked, "How's your Dad? I heard you had a run in with him."
"Yes, I was told by the NWMP that there was jewelry stolen from a place he had just been at when he came to Hope Valley to see us. I must admit it was easy for me to think that he had been the thief yet again. For too long his gambling was a vicious circle and he'd try to get out of his debts by stealing." Nathan explained.
"Well now, any one of us would have thought that too, Nathan." his cousin Jeffrey nodded.
"That's the reason I took him to jail, but in hindsight, it was the wrong thing to do in public. We were outside and Allie witnessed it to my regret. Archie denied it, but I had to lock my own dad up. It was heart wrenching." Nathan admitted. "For Allie's sake, I warned him I better not find out he'd been stealing again."
Dee interjected, but Nathan pursued the matter and went looking for another thief that was loose and found him with the jewelry. So my Nathan is a hero." Dee gushed.
"That's wonderful! Have you spoken to him since?" another cousin, Kathleen asked.
"Oh yes, he's working for the oil business in town. He was at our wedding and he's made amends with mom. She still doesn't know if she can trust him, but they are working on healing their relationship." Nathan grinned. "Please if you ever have the chance, come for a visit. Dee and I will be building our new home and they'll always be room for family."
After their visit with his family, they had a few days to explore Toronto and travel to Niagara Falls. Dee was fascinated by all the electric street cars, and automobiles. Nathan assured her that horseback riding was much more enjoyable.
It was then that he asked her, "Dee, what do you know about riding?"
"Oh, I've ridden some, but not a lot. I loved riding with you. I used my bicycle to get around mostly, why?" Dee questioned.
"I was thinking, when spring comes, I want to go horseback riding with you again, but with your own horse. That way when we start building our dream home we can see eachother quicker that way. What do you think?" Nathan smiled.
"Well, should you decide to get a horse, it would behoove you to invest in one for Allie first. Don't you think?" Dee was redirecting the question back.
"Consider it done. I've been wanting to celebrate her adoption, so that is what I've been thinking all along. Great minds think alike Mrs. Grant!"
Their honeymoon continued with a stay on the Clifton Hotel, near Niagara Falls which was as every bit as marvelous as the Queens Hotel in Toronto. Dee and Nathan couldn't believe how amazing the Falls were, especially the magnificent Horseshoe Falls! The sight was breathtaking. When their luck came, and the sun was out, and the warm breeze filled the air, they took a hike around the area. The bird watchers were busy watching peregrine falcons, bald eagles, and gulls. It was the epitome of nature right before their eyes.
They returned to The Queens Hotel in Toronto for one last night and while there attended the Grand Opera House. It was a splendid honeymoon that the two lovebirds never wanted to end. However, the next day they boarded the train back. This time they totally enjoyed the view of the majestic Rocky Mountains.
"Nathan, have I told you I love you?" Dee gazed lovingly at her husband.
"Not nearly enough sweetheart." They both gazed at eachother with fire in their eyes. "But you can show me." he winked.