Only the Beginning Chapter 4, Page 22
It was Easter Sunday and Dee Grant had all the church parishioners singing, "That Old Rugged Cross", "Hallelujah, Christ Is Risen" and "Jesus Lives", throughout the service with Molly playing the piano and then Angela, when Molly joined the choir. It was so awe-inspiring listening to them singing joyfully both adult and children's choirs together. Dee was thrilled that the blended choir performed so well.
Lee and Rosemary were sitting up front with Paul, who was wearing a beautiful white suit, as today was his baptism. Just behind them sat Paul's Godmother Elizabeth, and little Jack with Sam, and his Godfather Bill with Molly. When the time came, Pastor Joseph poured a little water over Paul's head in the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit, with Elizabeth holding a lit candle, and Bill holding a white tea towel to dry off Paul's head. Paul gave his head a good shake and seemed to share his baptism with Bill, who had to pat his face dry too.
As usual Pastor Joseph gave all the parishioners an uplifting sermon on the defeat of death with the promise of Jesus' Resurrection. This especially spoke to the O'Neills who came too, with the loss of their son Timothy, but were comforted with this promise of eternal life. After the service, everyone was cheerful and shared "Happy Easter" greetings to eachother. Since most of the town had spent yesterday celebrating Easter together, most of the families went on their separate ways, some expecting family guests. Lee and Rosemary invited the Canfields over to Billees.
Bill had some leftovers from yesterday's luncheon and offered it to Rosemary and Lee. They thought this would be a great idea to have Paul's Godmother Elizabeth, and LJ and Sam, of course as well as Bill being the Godfather including Molly his date.
Molly was expecting a visit from her daughter, Rosaleen, who she missed terribly since she left a few years ago. Molly asked Faith and Carson to join them. She had been talking about her daughter's visit all week at the infirmary and they knew how thrilled she was.
"Is she visiting for a while?" Faith asked.
"She didn't say, she told me that she was going to play that by ear. Whatever that means. So, I'm prepared either way, but I do hope she stays as I missed her so!"
Molly confided.
Fiona didn't want to spend Easter Sunday alone, so she asked Dottie and Henry, and Flo and Ned to all come over for a dinner. She hadn't had much company and even though Kevin, the blacksmith, had been giving her some compliments lately that got her attention, he still hadn't asked her out. So, she decided to ask him to dinner too! He was quite surprised, but delighted and happily accepted.
Emily was cooking for Easter, for the first time in Hope Valley at the Grant household and suggested that Bob, Marie, and Karen Landoch come over, particularly because she felt it would be fun for Allie to have Karen, and this was also the first Easter for the Landoch family in Hope Valley.
Upstairs in their bedroom, Dee was changing out of her Sunday clothes and putting on a pretty but comfortable skirt and blouse that she could relax in. As she let her hair down, Nathan watched with admiration as her long, golden hair cascaded down across her shoulders just shy of touching her waist. He couldn't resist coming up behind her and wrapping his arms around her, kissing her neck, and laying his head on her shoulder staring at her reflection in the mirror. They stood there caressing and Dee closed her eyes feeling his arms around her and just relaxing. When she turned around she gave Nathan a tender, lingering kiss.
"Nathan," she looked into his crystalline blue eyes, "you have made my life so amazing. I never thought I could be this happy!" she smiled lovingly.
Nathan took a deep breath and took his wife's lovely face in his hands, and felt her warm fingers running through his hair, and in the flash of a moment, he wanted to lock the door and spend the afternoon in their bed, just the two of them. "Dee, I want to keep you all to myself today, you are my everything!" he told her as he tenderly sunk into her lips.
Just then, they heard the pots and pans clanking quite loudly in the kitchen and Emily talking to someone with a low voice. Nathan pulled himself away and looked downstairs to find his Ma and Dad cooking together in the kitchen.
"Can you believe it? Those two are actually cooking the dinner side by side!" Nathan smiled and then had to laugh.
"Oh sweetheart, this is a minor miracle!" Dee declared excitedly.
"So far, so good," Nathan nodded.
"Before you go down there Nathan, come over here and sit down." Dee patted the bed right next to her.
"Oh, honey, we don't have time."
"Silly, I have something I want to share with you." Dee asked again.
"Okay," Nathan said as he sat right next to Dee. "What is it?"
Dee grabbed Nathan's hand and held it against her stomach and said smiling, "Sweetheart, there is an Easter gift for our family! We have a new little Grant inside there."
"What!? Dee, are you having a baby?" Nathan's eyes grew wide and his heart was racing.
"No, WE are having a baby! YES!" she jumped up and Nathan grabbed her by her waist and swung her around laughing.
"Oh, oh, please, no swinging around, that doesn't feel so good." she cautioned Nathan.
"Sorry, so you're not sick, the nausea is from our little one?" Nathan laughed out loud.
"Yes, he or she is letting me know that I'm a mommy!" Dee joined in the laughter, "and you're going to be a daddy again!"
"Wait until Allie finds out! Oh boy, and Ma and dad. And, we have to let your folks know too. This is great news! Nathan was ecstatic.
Allie knocked on their bedroom door, "Mom, Dad, what's all the commotion going on in here?"
Only the Beginning Chapter 4, Page 23
"Come on in Allie, we're just having a little fun!" Nathan grinned like a drunken sailor as he opened the master bedroom door. He winked at Dee and said, "let's go down and see what your Oma and grandfather are up to."
Allie shrugged and Nathan whispered to Dee how he thought they should share the good news with everyone. Dee nodded with a smile.
"Nathan, please bring in some logs for the fire. I thought it would be warm enough with the oven on, but there's still a cool snap to the air." Emily asked.
"Sure Ma. Dad, good to see you here this morning. Seems you're helping Ma!" he chuckled. Emily rolled her eyes.
Outside Nathan grabbed the wood and saw the Landochs coming down to their house. "Happy Easter!" Nathan greeted them.
"To you as well, it's a beautiful day today, but a bit nippy." Marie said.
"Yes, it's a great day!" Nathan exclaimed, "Come on in."
Ella was wagging her tail excitedly seeing her little son, Dusty. Ginger and Dusty began to bark and chase, so Allie and Karen took them outside in the back yard to play.
"Make sure the gate stays locked!" Oma called after them.
Dee was inside the kitchen and helped get the ham out and another dish in. Nathan offered Marie and Bob a glass of sherry and some appetizers as they all sat in the living room talking about the fun Easter celebration the Chickadees planned for Saturday and they laughed thinking about Henry in his Easter Bunny costume.
"He's a good sport," Bob smiled.
"When it comes to Dottie, he's whipped." Nathan snickered.
Archie joined them shaking his head. "Your mother shooed me out of the kitchen and told me to go out by you all." he grinned.
Meanwhile Emily was muttering to Dee to please check the table settings as she was afraid that Archie made a mess of things. When Dee checked it out, she was puzzled as Emily was right. There were two forks at one setting, a few knives upside down and some places were missing spoons altogether. Dee quickly straightened out the settings and smiled at Emily saying, "It's all fixed and ready for the food."
Allie and Karen wiped the dog's paws and let them in. Luckily, they had played long enough that after a drink of water, they settled by the fireplace. After washing their hands, the two girls joined the others at the table. Nathan lit the candles while Emily and Dee brought in the hot food.
"Everything smells so good!" Marie complimented Emily.
Nathan filled the adult's wine glasses and poured just a half glass for Dee. "Don't be cheap there son, give your wife a decent amount of wine!" he nudged.
"That's all right Dad," Dee said quickly. "I don't want much."
As they all sat down, they reached around the table to hold hands while Nathan said grace. "Thank you Lord, for your promise of eternal life. Please bless our friends and family and thank you for your bountiful blessings which we are about to enjoy."
"Amen!" everyone answered. Then Nathan raised his glass of wine, and cheered, "To good friends, family, and my beautiful wife!"
Nathan got up to carve the ham as everyone passed the potatoes and vegetables. Then the plate of sliced ham went around the table and everyone started to eat.
That's when Nathan startled everyone by asking, "Dee, did you forget the buns in the oven?"
"Oh, yes, excuse me, I'll go get them," and when returning to the table passed the basket of them around.
Allie was the last one to take a bun and said, "Mom, there's none left for you, do you want it?"
Dee smiled widely and looking at Allie and then Nathan she said, "There's a bun in the oven!"
"Oh! Oh!" Marie said, "that's wonderful!"
Allie looked very puzzled, and asked Karen, why her mom was so happy.
Then, Emily jumped up, "Wunderbar! Oh, my sweet Lord!" and gave Dee a huge hug and then Nathan.
Archie completely mystified too asked, "What in tarnation are you all so giddy about?"
Nathan stood up put his arm around Dee's waist and announced, "Allie, Dad, Dee is pregnant! You know, a bun in the oven?!"
When the news first hit her all Allie could say was, "Oh Wow! Oh Wow!" then when it sunk in, she exclaimed, "I'm going to be a big sister! Oma, just think!" and she ran over to her mom and dad for a group hug.
"Oh wait," Dee ran to the oven, "I almost forgot my bun!" she laughed hysterically.
"At least it's not burnt!" Emily smiled.
Everyone was laughing and clapping. It was truly a time for celebrating and they did so with gusto.
Only the Beginning Chapter 4, Page 24
Christy was hesitant to talk to her parents about Rick's mother watching Timi Anne, but it was the best solution and seemed to make both her and Rick in agreement that this would be the right decision. Both of them knew that Timi Anne would be provided with more attention at the O'Neills. Not that Anne Lipinski wasn't more than capable of taking care of Timi Anne, but she simply had several younger children of her own that needed her attention.
What Christy was really afraid of, was causing any hurt feelings with her parents when she would move to live with Rick at his folk's home, once they were married. The last thing she wanted, was to go through more heartache as they were just beginning to heal from her dad making her leave the house when she was pregnant. The counseling help from Pastor Joseph had made a huge difference in her relationship with her parents on both ends and she wanted to continue building on that. She told Rick she wanted him to be with her when they discussed this decision with her mom and dad.
First though, they had to make plans with Pastor Joseph for their wedding. They had an appointment that morning, so Rick came and picked up Christy and Timi Anne. Pastor Joseph was waiting at his cabin for them.
"Hello there! C'mon in and I'll get you both some coffee."
"Thanks for agreeing to seeing us Pastor. Coffee sounds good!" Rick said as he carried Timi Anne, following Christy inside.
"How are you feeling now Christy?" Pastor asked.
"Oh my infection is gone and my anemia has eased up quite a bit. I'm glad that's all under control now, thanks."
"Timi Anne?"
"Look at her, she's growing and we're enjoying her smiles now and her cooing." Christy glowed as she looked at her baby in her daddy's arms.
"Rick, how are things going with your family?" Joseph got right to the point.
"Mom and Dad are supportive and happy whenever Timi Anne and Christy come over. They told me that having them over brings joy back to the house." Rick was smiling. "They even offered Timothy's bedroom to have for Timi Anne!"
"Wow, that is progress!" Joseph was surprised but delighted. "So, what does that mean exactly?"
Christy spoke up, "Fiona offered to teach me how to cut and style hair. Being the mayor with the new people and building plans she says she needs help. I would only work a few days part-time, so Rick's mom offered to take care of Timi Anne for me."
"That's great!" Joseph grinned, but saw the hesitation in Christy's face, "So what's wrong?"
Christy shared how she felt if she followed through with the offer from Rick's mom. "It would make my parents, especially mom, upset thinking they were being slighted."
Joseph nodded and understood the dilemma with the fragility of their relationships.
Rick spoke up then, "Not only that, but my folks offered for Christy and Timi Anne to move in once we were married. So, it's a delicate situation that we're concerned about."
"Listen, the first thing you need to concern yourself with is that you two get married. We'll pray about the rest. There's no need to be worried, I'll continue to meet with both of your parents. In fact, my wife, is planning to invite Christy's mother to come to visit with the Chickadees, the ladies' social committee. They meet over at the Cafe and have fun, something your mom probably hasn't had much lately." Joseph raised his brows and looked at Christy.
Christy looked at Rick and back to Joseph, "I hope mom can get away, but I don't know how as she home schools my siblings."
"That's another issue that needs to be addressed by sending them to school with Mrs. Thornton, but all in due time. For now, let's take this one step at a time. What day would you like to get married?"
Both Rick and Christy blushed, but said together "As soon as possible!" which caused them both to laugh.
"All right then, let's plan this for later this month. I have one other wedding scheduled for Faith and Carson in two weeks. So, would you like to plan for the next week after say May 11?" Joseph suggested.
Rick looked at Christy with a huge smile growing across his face and when she nodded in the affirmative, he said, "Yes sir!"
Pastor Joseph went over what the wedding service would entail and they picked out readings and songs right then. "Now, you two both need a witness, so talk about who you want, ask them, and let me know. I'm assuming this will be just your families attending, am I right?"
"Yes, the only other people I was thinking of inviting were Drs. Faith and Carson, and Mayor Fiona. They really helped me when I needed it the most. Also, if it wasn't for Constable Nathan I might still be in that old hunting cabin." Christy spoke up.
Rick added, "I'd like to invite Bill and Lee too because they gave me a job when Constable Nathan knew I needed work."
"Great, that sounds like a good plan. I think you two are on the right path. So, your next step is to get your invitations out, and asking your best man and maid of honor. Give some thought to your vows and we'll meet next week. Let's close with prayer. Father, we ask for your mercy on these young folks, please keep their relationships with their folks peaceful and continue to heal any ill will. Bless their baby, Timi Ann, and may they have a blessed wedding. We ask in Jesus' name. Amen."
Only the Beginning Chapter 4, Page 25
It was time to make plans for Faith's bridal shower and Rosemary was right on top of it. She talked to all the ladies, and it got back to Faith.
"Molly, I need to talk with you," Faith said when they were alone in the infirmary.
"Sure, what is it?"
"I know you all mean well, and I so appreciate your thoughtfulness, but please don't throw a bridal shower for me. Carson and I both have everything we need. We are going to have more than we need with two houses full, we probably will have duplicates." Faith explained to Molly who was looking disappointed.
"Everyone is looking forward to it Faith." Molly was hoping Faith would change her mind.
"I'm thinking that instead why don't we help out Christy and Rick? They will need lots of things to start a home! They're getting married the week after us, so let's just keep the date and surprise Christy!" Faith suggested.
"That's a wonderful idea, and great minds think alike. Minnie already suggested this when the Chickadees had their last meeting. We were going to have a double bridal shower for the both of you." Molly finally informed Faith.
"Oh dear, well I guess I'll just go along with your plans and if I should get anything I don't need, I'll give it to Christy." Faith decided.
Over at Jack Thornton school, Dee was there early preparing her lessons. She had remembered to bring some opera records and the Victrola. Elizabeth was there too and seemed to be in a good mood. They both were talking about how to coordinate music lessons with sports. Sam, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John had stopped by to discuss with the ladies a schedule. Spring baseball was on the schedule and there was also an end of the school year concert to plan. Since music lessons after school were scheduled on Mondays and Wednesdays, that left Tuesdays and Thursdays for baseball practice.
The ladies were happy to have the help, but they had one more project they wanted to get started, and that was for the girls to have an opportunity to join the Girl Guides. One of the older girls would have to lead it with their help. Who would be the one? Anna or Allie? They decided that Anna would be the better choice since Allie was already taking guitar lessons. Elizabeth would see that Anna would get trained and pass her exam as a leader. Girl Guides were proven very popular and spreading fast across Canada. So, Tuesdays would be the day for Anna to help provide a Girl Guides meeting with Elizabeth. Fridays would be set aside for the whole school concert practice.
Meanwhile, Christy was writing up a few wedding invitations for Mayor Fiona, Drs. Faith and Carson, who she wanted to attend, and for Mr. and Mrs. Coulter, Judge Bill, Miss Molly, and Constable Nathan and Mrs. Grant. Rick and Christy talked who they wanted as the best man and they chose Constable Nathan as he was the first one to talk to Rick when he was hunting, and later was the one who found Christy out in the cabin. Nathan even asked around finding Rick a job at Billees. Rick was going to stop by the NWMP office to ask Mountie Nathan that week when he'd give out the invitations.
Christy was thinking about asking Maggie, her sister to be her maid of honor, but because she already was Timi Anne's Godmother, she hesitated as she really wanted to ask Mayor Fiona. Fiona was not just the Mayor, she had been there for Christy when she needed a place to stay, as she opened her home to her and Timi Anne and provided food and clothing too. Now, she also drove her to town to meet with Clara and baby Michael and offered her a job! She was truly her friend! It would be an honor to have her as her maid of honor. She was looking forward to the next time she would be in town so she could ask her.
Rick was over at the Coulter Lumber office talking with Lee about what kind of work he would be doing for him. Being that Pastor Joseph would be his boss, he too was in the office so the three of them could talk.
"Right now, Rick, I only have Matthew working for Joseph. By the way, on the job, you can call him Joseph, Pastor at Church. You will report to Joseph, as he is the foreman, and you will be working side by side most of the time with Matthew, who will be helping to train you." Lee told him.
Joseph looked at Rick and told him, "Congratulations Rick, you are working for one of Hope Valley's finest proprietors. There will be plenty of work and with the growth boom, we're expecting to be hiring more men soon. Give us the best you got, and we'll give you the best job! Sound good?"
"Yes, sir, thank you!" Rick said.
"Thank Mr. Coulter. He's the one who had his eye on you. Don't let him down." Joseph said confidently as he shook Rick's hand.
Lee stood up and shook hands with Rick and sent him off with one more detail, "Please check with Sam today, and let him know you'll be working for me at the lumber company. Help him with anything he might need before you go. I'll talk to Bill about finding someone to take your place. You have done great so far, we'll see you tomorrow morning, 7:00 am."
"Thanks again!" Rick was ready to holler, "Yahoo!" as he walked outside.
Only the Beginning Chapter 4, Page 26
It was Tuesday and Dee didn't have to teach today, so she stopped at the Infirmary and asked Molly if Faith could see her. Molly told her to have a seat but asked if she felt all right.
"I'm feeling good, I just have a question for Faith." Dee smiled thinking; Molly will know soon enough.
"Hello Dee! You came at a good time! I'm free, come over here," she said as she drew the curtain around the examining table. "What can I help you with?"
Dee sat on the table and then shared her news with Faith.
"Let's take a look, why don't we? Please allow me to help you up when you're ready." Faith offered, and proceeded with her exam, "Well, you are right, MOM!" she announced. "Congratulations! If we have this date right, you should be delivering the end of November!"
Molly couldn't help listening and raised her eyebrows in surprise. "Oh my, a baby Grant is coming!" she said out loud. Both Faith and Dee broke out laughing!
"Okay, let me check your blood pressure and weigh you," Dee cooperated happily. "All right, everything checks out good. I will see you once a month. Dee, in the meantime, you'll need to eat good, healthy meals, get 8 hours of sleep, and avoid stress. Do you have any questions for me?"
"No, not that I can think of." Dee answered. "Thank you Faith! I bet you can't wait for your wedding?"
"Absolutely, I've got to get all the arrangements settled with Rosemary. Thank goodness, she likes to be an event planner!" Faith grinned.
"I know, what would we do without her?" Dee nodded. "I'll be seeing you soon at your shower!"
"Please, take care of Christy and Rick foremost, Carson and I have pretty much what we need." Faith assured Dee.
When Dee left, she stopped by Minnie's Cafe and saw the Chickadees there. "What are you ladies' up to today?" she wondered.
Maryanne spoke up, "We are trying to finish some personal gifts for Faith and Christy. We have aprons, potholders, matching cloth napkins, candle holders, towels, oh, and quilts. We've been busy! A lot has to be done at home to finish up with two showers!"
Dee asked, "Are you getting any pots and pans, dishes, vases, you know items like that?"
"I think Molly is keeping track of gifts for Faith, but Faith has been asking us to focus on Christy. Faith says her and Carson both have most of what they need. So I think we might want to make a list for her." Minnie was thinking out loud to the group.
"If we can leave a list with Flo, that might work out." Dee suggested.
"Great idea Dee," Minnie agreed. "Let's jot down what items we think that Christy and Rick will need and let the rest of the family and friends know to check with Flo."
Dee said goodbye and left to see her husband. Nathan was at the NWMP and just hung up on a telephone call. When she saw him her face lit up.
"Sweetheart, it's confirmed by Dr. Faith. I am officially pregnant!" Dee clapped her hands.
"Was there any doubt? Not for me." Nathan hugged Dee. "What did she say?"
"Sometime in late November is her estimate. That's great, because I'll be able to be home at Christmas with our little one!" Dee was excited.
"I'm planning to be in our new home by then," Nathan looked at Dee with such love with their new life together so promising, that he couldn't resist giving her a sweet kiss.
"Dee, I just finished speaking with headquarters and I have to report there tomorrow. They didn't tell me why, just to report to the Superintendent's office. So, I'll be gone most of the day." Nathan informed her.
"Oh, I hope it's good news. Don't you have any clue?" Dee was very curious.
"No, not a clue. I'll ask Bill to come by to teach the guitar lessons tomorrow after school, all right?" Nathan checked.
"Sure, that's fine." Dee answered, "I'm going to stop over at Dottie's Apparel to see what we can do about making a wedding dress for Christy. I'll see you at home later," and blew him a kiss as she left.
When Dottie saw Dee, she said, "Hello and Congratulations!"
"Thank you! Dottie, how in the world did you know?" asked a shocked Dee.
"Word travels fast here in Hope Valley! Molly called Flo, and Flo called me, and of course Rosemary was here, so your news is no longer news!" Dottie explained.
"My goodness, I hope Rosemary doesn't put it as the headline in the Valley Voice!" Dee laughed.
"Are you here for maternity clothes?" Dottie asked.
"No, not yet. I wanted to see if we could sew a wedding dress for Christy Lipinski?" Dee asked.
"I was going to ask Henry about the one we found upstairs in the attic, but I haven't had a chance yet." Dottie apologized.
"Let's not bother Henry with that. Don't you think this beautiful young lady deserves a new dress?" Dee thought out loud. "I mean, she's had a rough start and if we can sew something for her to make her feel special, I'd like to help."
Dottie stopped and thought for a moment. "There are some beautiful fabric rolls coming in today or tomorrow's shipment, perhaps there will be material in white and lace that we can use. Although, we'd have to get her here for a fitting right away."
"I'll check with Fiona. I think she's going to be bringing Christy into her shop sometime this week to teach her how to cut and style hair. That should work out, don't you think?" Dee smiled.
Only the Beginning Chapter Four, Page 27
Molly was so thrilled to have Rosaleen back in town. After Easter she decided to stay and rekindle relationships with her friends from earlier. Molly brought her to the Apparel shop to see the renovation that Virlinda had done downstairs for the ladies and girls' clothing.
"This is so nice Mrs. Ramsey! You have all the new styles and accessories to go with the dresses. It's so attractive in here now." Rosaleen complimented Dottie.
"Thank you, Rosaleen. Your mother missed you while you were off to college. Are you enjoying it?" Dottie inquired.
"Yes, but I still haven't decided what occupation I want to pursue. I had hoped to be a teacher like Mrs. Thornton, but there's so many types of jobs, and I don't want to waste my mother's hard-earned money. So, I've decided to stay home and wait until I know what exactly what I want to do." Rosaleen explained.
"I am thrilled to have her back home. It can get lonely for both of us." Molly put her arm around Rosaleen's shoulders.
"Well then, come upstairs and look at what was done in the attic. It turned out incredible, and the men seem to like it too!" Dottie walked up the stairs to show Rosaleen around.
"This place is unrecognizable, really Mrs. Ramsey, you are fortunate to have found Virlinda." Rosaleen nodded.
"Thank you. I must admit I am impressed too. Now, what are you doing this week?" Dottie inquired.
Molly quickly spoke up, "I can't take off of work at the infirmary for the whole week, but Faith did tell me that if I just did the books and paperwork, I wouldn't have to be there the rest of the time. So, I think Rosaleen and I will be going to Buxton or Brookfield to shop and just have some mom and daughter time before we look for a job for Rosaleen."
"That sounds like a grand idea. You two enjoy yourselves and don't forget to introduce her to Dee. She hasn't met Mrs. Grant yet." Dottie winked.
As the two left Dottie's they walked down the boardwalk towards the Cafe for lunch. As they turned the corner, three nice-looking, but oily young men almost ran them over. "Oh sorry, excuse us." they apologized, as they headed to Henry's Petroleum Office. One of them stopped and looked back at Rosaleen. That brief half-smile from this rugged young man, made Rosaleen blush. This just might be an interesting town after all, she thought.
Kevin Townsend had not been as active as usual in the livery. With more people purchasing automobiles, there weren't as many horses to tend to. It seemed that he needed to focus on his blacksmith trade too. However, with the foundry coming to town he just might look for full time work there. One good thing that came out of his dilemma was that he consulted Mayor Fiona and she was easy on the eyes!
He decided to go over for a haircut and see what she was doing. When he got there she was just finishing up Ned Yost. He had a quiet moment at the Mercantile to run over for a quick haircut.
"Welcome Kevin! Just in time as Ned is finished. Have a seat. Oh, and thank you Ned, say hi to Flo."
"Hello Fiona, I am so glad you're available. I could use a haircut and a hot shave!" Kevin spoke up.
"Hmm, yes you do. It's been awhile. I'll have you spruced up in no time." Fiona laughed.
"Fiona, what do you know about a foundry coming in here? Is it going to be soon?"
Fiona sighed. "I really don't know what is coming when. Single men might stay at Billees, but there has to be housing built first so the families can settle. We had a town meeting not too long ago and started several committees. You might want to check with those helping in the new business committee first."
"This is going to be a boom town and I'm not sure if the livery will be necessary with the automobiles being driven more than horses being ridden." Kevin laughed at himself for sounding like a rhyme and Fiona joined in.
When Fiona collected herself, she pointed out that, "It'll be a little while before we have a foundry, as we have to offer water supply, gas, and electric lines first in order to build more. It's definitely quite a challenge. Sometimes, I think I bit off more than I can chew."
"Well, Fiona, let's stop talking shop and talk about having fun!" Kevin suggested.
"I'm ready." Fiona said as she finished up his haircut. "First, let me give you that shave."
When Fiona took the hot towel off of Kevin's face he complained, "Aww, that felt so good. Don't take it away."
"Sorry, all good things must come to an end. Now what were you saying about fun?" Fiona reminded Kevin.
"Yes, fun! Now that I'm all spiffed up, I have no one to go with me to Billee's for lunch. Unless, I can take you with me?" he smiled.
"Hmm, only lunch? How about whoever wins a game of darts pays for the lunch?" Fiona teased.
"Oh, you are on, yes indeed! Are you ready?" Kevin grinned.
"Yes, sir, let me grab my handbag" she smiled as she shut the door behind them and put her arm through his.
Only the Beginning Chapter Four, Page 28
Christy was able to convince her mother that Timi Anne would be in good hands with Rick's mom, and that she would watch her when Fiona picked her up. This was not easy, but Anne accepted the fact that she was quite busy with her own children. So, when Fiona pulled up, she was able to leave in peace this time. Fiona suggested to Anne that next time she should ride along with them and spend some time with the Chickadees. What she didn't tell Christy was that next time she would be taking them both to Christy's shower.
Fiona was glad to see that Christy was at peace and excited. "I'm so happy that you and Timi Anne are getting out again."
"Me too, and I can't wait to learn how to cut and style hair!" Christy smiled. "Rick's mom is waiting to have Timi Anne for a few hours too."
"Great! Have you talked to your folks about moving in with the O'Neills yet?" Fiona was concerned there still might be some conflict.
"Yes, they are slowly accepting this as the best solution. There really is no room for Rick, me and Timi Anne at my folks. It is just a plain fact and besides they have been more accepting of the situation now." Christy was relieved.
"That's progress. Sounds like things are starting to work out for you." Fiona grinned.
When they arrived at the O'Neills, Mrs. O'Neill was very excited to finally have a chance to watch her granddaughter. They walked in and Mary and Sean already had painted Timothy's old bedroom in a soft pink color with new curtains and even a baby crib. Mary was proud of the work they had completed, and it was just so pretty that Christy's eyes opened wide, and she exclaimed, "This looks like a princess's room. It's beautiful!"
Fiona nodded, "You really have this decorated so nicely. How lovely!" Fiona took Mary by her elbow to a corner of the room pretending to be interested in something and whispered to her about the upcoming baby shower on Saturday. She told her that she might want to have Rick here to watch Timi Anne. They decided that would work out great and that Christy would know about it by that morning so they could all ride together Anne, Mary, Christy, with Fiona.
Christy was full of milk, so she had expressed some of her breast milk in bottles for Timi Anne. As they left, Mary already had Timi Anne smiling and cooing. Before they went to Nichols and Dimes, Fiona surprised Christy by taking her to Dottie's Apparel to get fitted for a new wedding dress just for her.
"Hello there Christy!" Dottie greeted her with a hug. "Come in and look at some fabric we just got in. I hope to find a roll of fabric that you might like that we can sew you a dress for your wedding!"
"Oh my, I don't know what to say! I didn't expect this!" Christy was overwhelmed. "Who is paying for this?"
"Never you mind. Let's just get your measurements and talk about a style that you'll like." Rosemary offered.
"Really I am so grateful! I feel like I'm in a dream," she shared with a big smile.
After the ladies got done measuring her, they showed her the rolls of fabric. Being aware that she was a bride with a baby, she felt that the bright white fabric wouldn't be appropriate, so they focused on the cream color with a light cream color lace top. It was going to be designed with a young lady in mind. A flowing dress with no train and a simple flower head dressing.
Fiona told Christy, "I can see you now. I will fix your hair with the flowers and it'll be so cute."
"Well, I'll get busy designing the dress right away and have it cut out by tonight." Rosemary promised.
"Yes, then next week we should be able to have enough sewed to try it on and make any adjustments needed." Dottie added.
"How can I thank you," Christy asked in amazement, "I have nothing to pay you."
"Don't be silly," Fiona piped up, "let's go to Nichols and Dimes and get started on showing you all about the hair business! Thank you ladies!"
When they got there Fiona showed Christy around and all the tools she had and the products she used. The first customer who came was Lee. He wanted a cut, so Fiona had him sit in the chair and Christy learned how to drape the cape around him and pump up the chair. Then Fiona wet his hair just enough to make it lay straight and she had Lee put his head down while Christy watched Fiona start cutting his hair across the lower back of his head. Soon she saw little by little all the parts of the head and how they were cut.
"Take care around the ears! Mike Hickam thought I cut his ear off one time," Fiona cautioned, "you have to impress your client to sit still, or you just might." she teased.
Lee said, "I feel like I'm a model or something." he laughed.
When the cutting was done, Fiona shaved his sideburns and the back of his neck with the clippers and Christy was impressed. "Mr. Coulter looks so much better!"
Fiona winked, "Well don't say that Christy. Just ask him how he likes it."
Lee chuckled, "It's quite all right Christy, something has to help me look better!"
Christy stayed for a few hours and watched carefully how Fiona trimmed bangs on little girls, cut Janice's long hair, styled Kenda's hair in an updo, and give a hot shave to Mike Hickam.
"So, Christy, what do you think?" Fiona asked.
"I'm really going to enjoy this, I can't wait to try to do hair next time," she looked carefully at Fiona to see what kind of reaction she had.
A little apprehensive, Fiona told her, "let's wait a little more. All right?" she smiled. "Right now, I'll drive you back to pick up your little girl."
"That would be great, I think she might be ready for me too, it's lunch time for us both." Christy nodded. "Thank you so much Fiona. Before we go, I was hoping I could ask you to be my maid of honor at my wedding, would you do me the honor?" Christy bit her lip in anticipation.
"Christy, how nice! I'm flattered. Of course, I would love to." Fiona was pleased.
"You're like another big sister I never had," Christy said as she hugged Fiona.
Only the Beginning Chapter 4, Page 29
Dee was feeling good this day. She hadn't been nauseous for a few days, so she counted her blessings. Today being Friday, and with no music lessons after school, she was relieved since she was expecting Nathan to come back home from NWMP headquarters.
Dee and Allie walked home together from school enjoying the spring afternoon. It was fun just to talk mother to daughter about the lovely spring day and the new Girl Guides program starting. Allie was excited to join the group and wondered what it would be like.
It was new to Dee too, but she heard about it from Elizabeth. "I think it sounds like a very creative and fun group for young girls. If I were you, I'd be very interested in going and see for myself what it's like."
"So, are you going to be there too?" Allie stopped and looked at Dee with a pleading look in her eyes.
Dee was taken aback by Allie's wanting her to be with her, that before she thought much about it she said, "Absolutely! If you want me there, I'll see if Elizabeth wants my help."
Allie grinned from ear to ear and hugged Dee. "Yes, I do thank you. I want to enjoy my time alone with you before the little one comes along. Oh, does Mrs. Thornton know you are pregnant?"
"I haven't told her, but I think she already knows as it's been passed along in town already." Dee rolled her eyes.
"Let me guess, Mrs. Sullivan!" Allie laughed.
"Who else?" Dee nodded and joined in laughing.
"Dad is still coming home tonight right?" Allie asked. Dee nodded yes. "I wonder if he'll take me to get a filly this weekend?"
"Allie, he has to do his paperwork when he goes to the office tomorrow. I hope though that he can with school ending soon. So, don't worry he hasn't forgotten. Besides, he wants to get our new house started. Aren't you excited about that?" Dee asked.
"Oh, yeah! We'll even have indoor plumbing and more room. Dad said he wants to build a stable there too for Newton and my filly." Allie acknowledged that she just might have to wait for her horse. "I know, first things first."
When they arrived home, Emily was cooking dinner. "Hello my angels, how are you two?" she asked.
Allie gave her Oma a hug and grabbed an apple. "Good. I want to sit outside with Ginger and Ella. Do you need me to help?"
"No, go ahead and enjoy the day, I'll be out in a minute to join you, ya?" Emily answered Allie.
Emily checked on the pot of stew cooking on the stove and asked Dee. "How are you doing? Do you think you'll be able to handle eating dinner tonight?"
"Yes, I'm good today Ma, especially since Nathan is coming home. I was hoping he would be here by now." Dee sighed.
"Well, we'll wait a little while yet for dinner. Why don't you come outside with me and we'll have some lemonade with Allie?" Emily poured each of them a glass of cool lemonade and handed Dee hers as they walked outside to the back yard.
"I sure miss the swing outside in your backyard at the farm Oma. I could see across the fields when I got high enough." Allie reminisced.
"Angel, just think about the big porch you'll have in the new house! I bet your dad will make a big wooden swing for the porch to watch the sunsets over the Rocky Mountains." Emily assured Allie.
Dee added, "and there's a lot of trees to climb, and a stream to fish in, with country to ride your filly throughout! You'll see, it'll be wonderful, and I can't wait myself to see the beginning of our dream house!"
Just as she finished saying that, she saw Allie smiling almost giggling and wondered why, until she felt a warm hand go over her eyes and the other hand that held a bouquet of flowers brush past the tip of her nose and laid on her lap. When he removed his hand from her eyes, Nathan was kissing her head.
"Oh sweetheart! You're home!" Dee smelled her flowers, handed them to Emily and jumped up to give him a huge hug.
"How are you feeling Mrs. Grant?" Nathan asked.
"Not too bad," Emily laughed when she answered to her son's question.
"Much better now!" Dee answered with a kiss. Then Allie ran over and hugged him too.
"We missed you Dad, what did you do at Headquarters?" Allie was curious.
Nathan smiled. "It's all good. Actually, it was a meeting for all of us local Constables. We were called in to be informed about changes coming. The duties of the NWMP were extended to the whole of Western Canada and this summer it will be throughout all of Canada. Legislation is being drawn up now in which the Dominion Police, will be joining us and our new name will be the Royal Canadian Mounted Police." Nathan informed.
"That's big news!" Dee looked surprised at her husband, "What does that mean for you?"
"Glad you asked." Nathan looked at his 3 favorite ladies and said, "You are now looking at the new Corporal Nathan Grant!"