There's just a little bit of steam in this one...But it's still STEAM! :)
STEAM ALERT*STEAM ALERT*STEAM ALERT*STEAM ALERT*STEAM ALERT*STEAM ALERT
November 26th, 2009 – Thanksgiving, Tom Sam's ranch
Jack turned down the blacktop drive that led to his brother's ranch style log home. Stopping his truck behind his mother's SUV, Jack put it in park and got out, helping Elizabeth down. Taking the casserole dish from her, he held it in one hand and her hand in the other.
Opening the front door, he stepped to the side to allow Elizabeth to enter first, then followed her in. Walking into their spacious open floor plan home, adult and child voices filled the home.
As footsteps could be heard running across the floor like a herd of horses, Savannah jumped into Jack's arm, almost knocking the ceramic dish from his grasp. Jumping into Elizabeth's arm, Luke hugged her tight, almost choking her.
"Hi, Aunt Bethee," he excitedly exclaimed.
"Hi, Luke. I've missed you."
After getting all the welcome back hugs from everyone, Jack and Elizabeth joined them in the kitchen where they were inundated with questions about their trip.
All throughout Thanksgiving dinner, the couple was asked about different aspects of their trip, shared the many photos, as well as got caught up with all the happenings of the rest of the family. Savannah and Jack had their own silent conversation while Elizabeth, Sam and Charlotte discussed the different places she and Jack had visited in Paris. Frank and Tom were debating over frying or baking a turkey, while Austin and Luke played with their toy horses and cowboys.
After dinner, while the women converged in the kitchen, the men and kids took seats in the living room and found a football game to watch on TV.
Once the kitchen was cleaned, the women joined the men in the living room. Elizabeth, sitting next to Jack who held Savannah on his lap, wanted to speak to her beautiful niece.
Whispering in Jack's ear, she asked, "Can you help me talk to her?"
Smiling, he nodded and moved his hand out from behind her.
Elizabeth told Jack what she wanted to say or ask, and each time, Jack showed her how to sign it to Savannah. Then he translated Savannah's replies.
"I want to learn ASL," she told Jack after Savannah got down to go play with her brothers.
"That would be wonderful. Either I can teach you or I can tell you where I took classes."
"Maybe both," she smiled, snuggling into his side.
…..
November 30th, 2009 – Sully Schools, Missouri
As soon as her first class of second graders entered the room, she was surrounded by twenty kids, all hugging her and telling her how much they'd missed her. After getting the class settled down and the kids in their seats, she handed out drawing paper and colored pencils, giving the class the assignment of designing a Christmas card for their parents.
"This is fun, Miss Thatcher," Ally stated as she drew a deer.
"It's Mrs. Thornton now, remember?"
"Oh, yeah. I forgot."
After a full day of hugs from every class and many times of correcting students with her new name, Elizabeth put away the last of the supplies and locked her door.
"Liz!"
Turning toward the voice, she saw Rosemary running down the hall toward her. As soon as she was within arm's reach, Rosie grabbed her and hugged her.
"Welcome back," she exclaimed after finally releasing her friend.
"How did it go with meeting Lee's family?"
Putting her arm through Elizabeth's, the two walked through the halls as Rosie spoke. "They were wonderful. His parents are so nice, and his dad is hilarious. I see where Lee gets his humor. And his brother Matthew and his wife Steph are great. I felt so welcomed there."
"That's wonderful, Rosie. Where do they live?"
"His parents live in Georgia, that's where we went. His brother lives in Alabama."
"I've always wanted to go to Georgia. Maybe one day soon."
"It's so beautiful there. I can't wait to go back."
The pair visited more about Rosie's trip as they walked out of the school, stopping at Elizabeth's SUV.
"We need to get together some evening this week for a drink so you can tell me all about your honeymoon."
"That would be great. Hey, you and Lee should come over for dinner Friday night."
"I'll check with Lee, but that sounds perfect."
…..
December 4th, 2009 – Hope Meadows Ranch
As Elizabeth pulled the lasagna from the oven, the doorbell rang, and Jack went to answer it. Before he could get there, the door flew open, and Lee and Rosie stepped inside.
"Hey, what if we were...umm...getting busy in here?" Jack asked, crossing his arms while he stood in front of Rosemary.
"We rang the doorbell and gave you ample time to get your clothes back on," she teased, walking around him and into the kitchen.
Shaking his head, he pulled Lee into one of their manly hugs and they slapped each other on the backs.
"So, how was the honeymoon?" Lee asked, wiggling his eyebrows up and down and grinning.
"It was...perfect," Jack smiled back.
"Atta boy," Lee stated, slapping Jack on the back once more.
The guys joined the women in the kitchen, where Elizabeth and Rosemary were already talking about Paris and St. Martin.
"It was so amazing," Elizabeth said, referring to the Eiffel tower. "It was more beautiful in person than I could have ever imagined. Photos don't do it justice."
"Maybe we'll make it there one day," Rosie said, eyeing Lee.
"Oh, you should. It was just unbelievable."
"What about St. Martin? How was that?" Lee asked.
Jack pulled his phone from his pocket and showed Lee the video he'd taken of the planes flying overhead.
"Whoa, that's crazy."
"It was pretty cool. Don't get to experience that every day."
The women continued chatting about Paris and St. Martin while Jack and Lee's conversation switched to team roping and making plans for the spring.
"Hey, have you heard anything about Dustin?" Lee asked.
"Last I heard, he was being moved to a rehab center in Kansas City, closer to home. He had some residual effects from the head injury and was struggling with his motor skills. But they think he'll recover after some therapy and a lot of hard work."
"Well, if anyone can do it, Dustin can," Lee added.
"Yes, he was always a tough one."
As they sat around the dining table, discussions and plans regarding the upcoming wedding were the hot topic of the evening. Planning for a spring wedding in May, colors, flowers, and location needed to be decided.
"Lee and I would like to ask a favor," Rosie said, laying her hand in Lee's.
"Of course," Elizabeth replied.
"We would love to use your dad's barn for our wedding."
"Of course," Jack replied. "It's there for anybody that wants to. We would be honored if you two used it."
"Wonderful," Rosie continued, "check that off the list. Thank you so much, you two."
Once dinner was over, dishes done, leftovers put away, and another two hours of visiting had come to an end, Jack and Elizabeth walked their friends to the door. As Jack opened it, Elizabeth looked out and saw that it had begun to snow.
"Oh, look. It's snowing."
The group walked out onto the front porch and watched the large, wet flakes fall to the ground, melting on contact.
"Thanks for a delicious meal," Rosie said and hugged her friends goodbye, followed by Lee.
"We should do this more often," Jack stated as he hugged Rosemary.
"Yes!" she exclaimed, that would be wonderful.
Jack and Elizabeth stood on their porch, Jack's arms around her as she stood in front of him, warming her against the chill in the air. After Rosie's taillights disappeared down the drive, they turned and returned to the warmth of their home.
…..
December 5th, 2009 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Jack walked up the steps from the basement carrying an extra set of winter work clothes and laid them on the island.
"What are those for?" Elizabeth asked, drying her hands on the dish towel.
"These are for you. They might be a little big, but they're warm."
"And why would I need those?"
Jack walked around the island and took her hands in his, "Because we are going to go find a Christmas tree and cut it down."
Seeing her eyes light up, Jack knew he'd made the right decision and picked up a worn pair of coveralls and held them out for her to step into them. Stepping into the legs, she took the garment from Jack and finished pulling it up and put her arms through. With the legs pooled are her feet and the sleeves hanging to her knees, Jack bent down and rolled the pantlegs up then proceeded to the sleeves.
"I'm not going to be able to walk in this," she said, laughing and pulling the crotch up from her knees to where it should be.
"Wait here," Jack said, then darted up the stairs. Returning with one of his belts, he wrapped it around Elizabeth's waist as she held the coveralls up. "There. Perfect fit," he said as he stepped back and proudly observed his handy work.
Holding her arms out and looking down at her attire, she asked, "Now what?"
Picking up a stocking cap, Jack pulled it down over her head, pushing her hair back out of the way. Grabbing the scarf next, he wrapped it around her neck, then pushed a pair of leather work gloves over her hands.
Picking up his own winter apparel, he got dressed then grabbed two pairs of thermal boots.
"Where did those come from?" Elizabeth asked, tugging at the scarf around her neck.
"I needed a new pair so I picked up some for you while I was at the store."
"You know my shoe size?"
"Well, you have about fifteen pairs of shoes and boots in the closet, so I peeked," he grinned.
After getting their boots on, they stepped outside into the below freezing weather, and walked to the shed that held their Kawasaki Mule side-by-side. Grabbing a chainsaw, ax, and hatchet, Jack placed the items in the back, then proceeded to drive down a path that led out to the timber.
Discussing what would make the perfect tree for their house, Jack would point out different ones, only to have Elizabeth shake her head.
"There!" She exclaimed, pointing toward a twelve-foot black hills spruce tree.
"That one?" Jack asked, wide eyed and pointing at the tree.
"Yes, that one is perfect."
Pulling the UTV up near the tree, Jack got off and stood, looking up and down the large spruce, sizing it up.
"How am I supposed to get this home and into the house?" Not speaking to anyone directly, Jack was thinking out loud, arms crossed, staring at the tree.
Stepping up beside him, Elizabeth laid her hand on his arm. "I'll help," she replied, smiling.
Shaking his head, he walked to the back of the UTV. "Alright, let's get this," he said, picking up the hatchet.
Clearing all the lower branches, Jack was now able to reach the trunk. Returning to the tools, Jack exchanged the hatchet for the chainsaw. Pulling his scarf and hat off, he tossed them in the back before going back.
Starting the chainsaw, Jack moved back to the tree and quickly cut through the trunk, pushing it over with his shoulder.
Once they had it secured to the roof of the UTV, they took it home and manhandled it into the house, shoving it through the large doorway. Peeling out of their winter clothes, rearranging the furniture, digging out the tree stand from Elizabeth's boxes, and getting everything set up, took the remainder of the day and it was time for dinner before they knew it.
Jack cleaned up the pine needles that had formed a trail from the door to the large spruce, while Elizabeth warmed up some leftovers, cleaning the dirty dishes as she went.
After they ate, they carried all of her ornaments and lights up from the basement and decorated the tree together. Draping a red velvet tree skirt, edged in green plaid, around the base, completed it and the couple stepped back to look at their first Christmas tree as a married couple.
"Oh, one more thing," Elizabeth said, reaching into a small box that remained on the coffee table.
She pulled out something wrapped in tissue paper, and as she unwrapped it, white feathery wings appeared, attached to the back of a gorgeous angel. Wearing a red and gold dress, edged in gold lace, and two gold ribbons spiraling down the front of her, Elizabeth carefully handed her to Jack.
"This is beautiful, Beth."
"Yes, my parents gave her to me many years ago. I used to set her in my bedroom until I moved out and had my own place and tree. She's my favorite part of the decorations."
Sliding the ladder closer, Jack climbed it, taking care not to damage the angel. Getting it situated on top of the tree and plugging it in to reveal the fiberoptic wings lighting up, Jack joined Elizabeth back on the floor, looking over their tree.
"It's so beautiful," Elizabeth said, looking at the hundreds of white lights, red ribbons, and red and gold glass balls. "Where are your ornaments? We can add yours to it, too."
"I don't have any."
"What? How do you not have any? What did you decorate your trees with?"
"I didn't. I've never had a Christmas tree in here before."
Turning to face him, she wrapped her arms around his waist, "That's so sad, Jack. Why not?"
Shrugging his shoulders and shaking his head, he replied, "Never saw the use. It was just me."
"Well, it isn't just you anymore."
Tightening his arms around her and covering her lips with his, he kissed her with a loving desire of needing to feel her close to him.
"No, it most certainly is not," he finally replied, smiling and flashing his dimples.
Elizabeth began walking toward the stairs, stopped and held her hand out, "Join me?"
…..
December 18th, 2009 – Sully Schools, Missouri
Rosemary entered the art room just as Elizabeth closed the cabinet after putting away the paint and brushes.
"Are you ready for some time off?" she asked, hopping onto a table.
"Yes, very much so," Elizabeth replied as she crossed the room to Rosie. "You?"
"Yes!" I need a vacation.
Wide eyed, Elizabeth looked at her friend. "A vacation, huh? Any ideas?"
"Ideas? For a vacation?" Rosie asked, confused by the question.
"Yes, any ideas where you'd like to go?"
"Paris and St. Martin sound pretty amazing," she laughed.
"Yes, that they were," Elizabeth's smile grew as she thought back to her honeymoon.
"But in all seriousness, I'd be happy to just lay on a beach somewhere warm."
"Yes, I do miss that."
The pair walked out to their cars, telling their fellow teachers goodbye along the way.
Standing at the cars, snow falling again, Elizabeth pulled the fur lined hood of her coat up over her head.
"You and Lee should come over tomorrow. We'll do lunch for your birthday. Say around noon?"
"We'll be there. That sounds fun."
Turning their separate ways out of the parking lot, Elizabeth watched Rosie's truck drive out of view in her rear-view mirror.
…..
December 19th, 2009 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Elizabeth opened the front door when she heard Rosemary's truck pull in. Pulling her sleeves down to cover her arms, she waited as Lee and Rosie walked up the steps.
Pulling Rosie into an embrace, Elizabeth said, "Happy birthday."
"It's not until tomorrow."
"Close enough," she replied, pulling back and smiling at her friend. "Let's get inside, it's cold out here."
Yesterday's snow had lightly dusted everything, just enough to make the landscape appear like a beautiful scene from a Christmas movie with the sunlight reflecting off the white fields.
As they walked into the kitchen, friends and family jumped from around corners, behind furniture, and upstairs, shouting, "Surprise!"
"What?" Turning to Lee, she asked, "Did you do this?"
Nodding, Lee answered, "Yes. Well, sort of. It was my idea, but Elizabeth put it into motion."
"Oh, thank you," Rosie exclaimed, hugging Lee. Moving to Elizabeth and wrapping her arms around her as well, she said, "thank you, so much."
"You're very welcome," Elizabeth replied, cupping her friend's face and wiping a couple tears from her cheeks that had escaped from their hold.
Tom, Sam, their kids, Charlotte, Frank, Abby, Faith, Jason and Alicia were among about twenty people that had come to surprise Rosemary. Rosie was in seventh heaven as she mingled through all their friends, hugging everyone as she greeted them.
Jack removed the last of the homemade pizzas from the oven as everyone moved into the kitchen, forming a line beginning at the island. Scattered around the house, at the table, the island, and in the living room, everyone enjoyed the food and fellowship as many conversations floated throughout the house.
When they finished eating, Lee found Rosemary and asked her to join him in the living room.
"I know your birthday isn't until tomorrow, but I wanted to give you your gift now." Pulling a small, white envelope from his pocket, he handed it to her.
Opening it and removing the papers that were hidden inside, Rosemary gasped.
"What is it?" someone called from across the room.
"Two tickets to Cancun." Rosie said before jumping out of her seat and hugging Lee.
Conversations picked back up as people began talking about what a wonderful time they would have, how great it would be to get out of the cold weather, and congratulating Lee on doing such a good job with her gift.
"When do you leave?" Charlotte asked.
Rosemary looked back at the tickets, "9 a.m. tomorrow?" Turning to Lee, "That doesn't give me any time to shop for new clothes to wear."
Stepping forward, Elizabeth took her friend's hand, "I took care of that for you." She led her to the kitchen. "Wait right here." Leaving Rosie at the island, Elizabeth went to a closet near the back door and pulled out two bags filled with clothes. "My gift to you," she said, handing them to Rosie.
Pulling the clothes from the bags, there were three new bathing suits, two maxi dresses, three pairs of shorts, tank tops, dress shirts, and a cover up. Another bag held two new pairs of shoes, flip flops and flat sandals.
"This is basically exactly like my wardrobe while we were on the island."
Jumping up to hug Elizabeth, Rosie said in her ear, "Thank you so much, Liz. I love you."
"I love you, too. I was afraid you figured this all out when you said you needed a vacation at school yesterday."
"Oh, no, I had no idea. This was all a total surprise."
"I'm so glad he was able to pull it off. Lee was so excited for tonight; it took everything in him to keep quiet."
"I wondered why he'd been acting weird lately."
Elizabeth waved to Lee and Rosie as they got into the truck. "Have fun," she shouted, just before Rosie closed her door.
Jack wrapped his arm around her, pulling her against his side to warm her. "They are definitely going to have fun."
Shoving her elbow into his side, she turned to go in. Being overtaken by Jack, she squealed as he picked her up and swung her over his shoulder, kicking the door closed behind him. Jack carried her up the stairs, Elizabeth laughing and kicking all the way, entered their bedroom and closed the door.
…..
December 21st, 2009 – Portsmouth International Airport, New Hampshire
Stepping out into the 25-degree air, Elizabeth pulled her coat up around her neck, blocking the frigid wind. Making their way to the rental car, Jack pulled their suitcase and swung the carry-on bag over his shoulder.
Quickly getting into the Chrysler 300, Jack closed Elizabeth's door and jogged around to the other side. Turning out onto the freeway, Elizabeth pointed out different landmarks and areas of interest from her childhood.
"Excited to see your parents again?" he asked, moving his hand to cover hers.
"Yes. And excited to show you around my stomping grounds."
"Me, too. I didn't see much other than the airport, hotel and your parent's house when I was here."
"We will definitely have to remedy that," she grinned, squeezing his hand.
Grace opened the front door as Jack and Elizabeth unloaded their luggage from the car. As soon as Elizabeth saw her, she ran up the sidewalk toward the front door and embraced her mother.
"So good to see you, Sweetheart," Grace said, holding Elizabeth's face in her hands.
"You, too, Momma."
"Jack, get up here," Grace said, seeing Jack standing at the bottom of the steps, waiting for his wife and mother-in-law to finish their greetings.
Smiling, Jack climbed the steps and hugged Grace. "Good to see you, Grace."
"You, too, Jack." Holding his face in her hands now, she looked back and forth between the two. "You two look very tan," she grinned. "Let's get inside where it's warm and you can tell me all about your honeymoon."
Once settled inside, they joined William in the sitting room and the four of them enjoyed a long conversation including the honeymoon, life in New Hampshire, and the latest antics of Skylar. Topics such as team roping, teaching and William's law firm were also in the mix.
After a filling dinner, William and Jack retired to the library for a couple of drinks while Elizabeth and her mother sat at the bar in the kitchen, talking about life as a married woman.
"It's so great, Mom. Jack is so considerate and did everything in his power to make our honeymoon perfect."
"It sounds like you found yourself a wonderful man, Beth. Your trip sounds like it was a dream come true."
"Oh, Momma. It really was. First Paris, I was able to go to the museum where Monet's paintings are displayed."
"He's always been your favorite."
Elizabeth nodded, smiling, remembering back to their trip. "And St. Martin, oh my goodness, it was so beautiful and peaceful. We really needed that and we just explored the island a little but relaxed at the villa most of the time." Pulling out her phone, she scrolled through her photos until finding the ones of the inside of La Perla Classic. "This is where we stayed," she said, handing her phone to her mother.
"This is gorgeous. Wow, Jack really outdid himself."
…..
Leaning forward in his seat and resting his arms on his knees, William continued, "It was quite an honor getting to watch you ride in Vegas, Jack. We had never seen anything like that and you are quite talented."
"Thank you, Sir."
"I will say though, I'm glad you retired, for Beth's sake."
"Yes, Sir. I just couldn't keep putting myself into harm's way like that knowing Beth was in the stands. I finally came to good terms with my career and was at a point in my life that I was able to walk away from it."
Leaning back in his leather seat, William lifted his leg and crossed it over his knee. "You'll be ranching now, then?"
"Yes, I will continue helping my mother, plus I am planning on taking in more horses for training. I also have several head that I use for breeding and plan to increase my herd for that as well. And Lee and I plan to start team roping this spring."
"Yes, I remember the video you showed us. I would love to see you guys compete in that sometime."
"Absolutely. Once we get going and get a schedule, I'll be sure to have Beth send it over to you."
"Sounds good, Son." William picked up his tumbler of scotch, took a sip, and returned it to the table.
"Say, how's that boy doing? Your friend that got injured in Vegas."
…..
"It was so good to see Viola. The kids have grown so much."
"Oh, your father and I are planning a trip there late next year."
"She will love that. She said she really missed you guys."
"Since it's not for work, we'll be able to spend more time with them and sightsee more. Maybe we'll actually make it to Paris, too."
"You'll love it, Mom. It was so beautiful. I can't wait to start using my studio and do some more paintings of the Eiffel Tower."
…..
December 25th, 2009 – Christmas Day, Thatcher House, New Hampshire
The next three days had flown by with showing Jack the schools she attended, two places she had worked as a teenager, where she had wrecked her first car by sliding on ice into a light pole, and her favorite place to go to be alone, a park just a few blocks from her parent's house.
Christmas day brought many family members to their house for lunch, some of which Elizabeth hadn't seen in years, all of which Jack had never met except for Julie, Bill and Skylar.
Elizabeth's Aunt Agatha greeted Jack with a bear hug, welcoming him to the family and telling him a few embarrassing stories of Elizabeth when she was a child. Her Aunt Jerry and Uncle Earl, whom she hadn't seen in five years, visited with Jack about his rodeo career for an hour, completely enthralled with his achievements as a bull rider.
Her cousins, Lorri, Sandy and Cheryl, all sisters, chatted endlessly about Jack and Elizabeth's wedding, looking through Grace's photo album that she'd already put together.
More aunts, uncles and cousins joined in on the many conversations that floated about throughout the day, everyone making Jack feel right at home.
After everyone else had left, Julie and Bill stood to say something to Jack, Elizabeth and her parents. "Bill and I would like to announce that we are having another baby." Julie stated as squeals from both women filled the room.
"Julie! That's so wonderful," Elizabeth shouted, hugging her sister. "When did you find out? How far along are you? When are you due?"
"Well, I'm actually seven weeks but we just found out on Monday. I'm due July 27th."
"Let me have her," Grace said, pushing her way to Julie to give her a hug. "That is wonderful news, Dear."
"Yes, wonderful news," William repeated, hugging his youngest daughter.
"Congratulations, Bill," Jack said, shaking his hand.
The Thatchers spent the remainder of the evening talking about the upcoming baby and what Julie and Bill needed and had planned.
Late that night, when everyone else had gone to bed, Elizabeth slid under the covers where Jack was already waiting. Laying her head on his chest, their bodies intertwined, Jack kissed her on the top of her head.
"Did you have a good Christmas?" He asked.
"Yes, it was so great to see everyone again."
Lifting her chin with his finger, he captured her lips with his. "Merry Christmas, Beth. I love you."
"I love you, too."
…..
December 26th, Thatcher House, New Hampshire
Their final morning in New Hampshire, Julie, Elizabeth and Grace prepared a large breakfast for the family. Lighthearted conversations and laughter filled the house as everyone ate and enjoyed their time together.
Just before lunch, Jack loaded their luggage into the rental car, then returned to the house where Elizabeth was already saying her goodbyes to her family.
"Good seeing you, Jack. You two are welcome here anytime," William said, shaking Jack's hand.
"Thank you, Sir. You and Grace are welcome at our house anytime as well. I know my mom would love to see you two again."
"Bring her along next time you come. She and Frank can stop by anytime."
"Goodbye, Sweetie," Grace said, hugging her daughter and beginning to cry.
"Bye, Mom. I love you."
"Goodbye, Daddy," she said, moving to her father for a hug.
"Love you, Dear," William said, hugging her back.
"Goodbye, Jules. You guys come see us sometime."
"Bye, Sis. We will."
"See you later, Bill," Jack said, shaking his hand.
"Bye, Jack. Always good to see you and Beth."
….
December 27th, 2009 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Elizabeth rolled over in bed, expecting her arm to land across Jack, but instead it flopped onto the mattress. Sitting up, she looked around the room, seeing the fireplace was burning strong. She pulled herself out of bed and went into the bathroom.
Walking down the steps a few minutes later, wearing her flannel pants and t-shirt, she heard Jack on his guitar in the living room.
Leaning against a log post, she stood and watched him play. He was leaning back into the couch, relaxed with one leg pulled up and the guitar resting against his thigh. Playing the notes to a familiar melody and humming, she couldn't recall the song.
Then he began to softly sing, Then by Brad Paisley.
"I remember, trying not to stare, the night that I first met you
You had me mesmerized
And three weeks later, in the front porch light
Taking forty-five minutes to kiss goodnight
I hadn't told you yet
But I thought I loved you then
And now you're my whole life
Now you're my whole world
I just can't believe the way I feel about you, girl
Like a river meets the sea,
Stronger than it's ever been.
We've come so far since that day
And I thought I loved you then
And I remember, taking you back to right where I first met you,
You were so surprised
There were people around, but I didn't care
I got down on one knee right there and once again,
I thought I loved you then
But now you're my whole life
Now you're my whole world
I just can't believe, the way I feel about you, girl
Like a river meets the sea,
Stronger than it's ever been.
We've come so far since that day
And I thought I loved you then
And I can just see you, with a baby on the way
And I can just see you, when your hair is turning gray
What I can't see is how I'm ever gonna love you more
But I've said that before
And now you're my whole life
Now you're my whole world
I just can't believe the way I feel about you, girl
We'll look back someday, at this moment that we're in
And I'll look at you and say
And I thought I loved you then"
Elizabeth slowly moved across the room to Jack. Seeing her, he set his guitar down, leaning it against the couch. Elizabeth sat next to Jack, his arm around her, her head against his chest. They sat in silence, watching the lights twinkle on the Christmas tree, as Jack ran his fingers through her hair.
Turning, and moving over Jack, Elizabeth straddled him, covering his lips with hers. Her kiss was filled with passion as he lifted her shirt up over her head. Sitting up, Elizabeth grabbed the hem of his shirt and pulled it off, dropping it on the floor next to the couch.
Jack wrapped his arm around her waist and standing with her against his chest, he laid her onto the couch, covering her body with his. His hand brushed along her soft skin from her waist to her neck as his lips grazed her jawline and to her lips.
Sliding his finger under her bra strap, he pulled it off her shoulder, releasing her right breast. Covering it with his hand, he pressed his lips against her neck. Elizabeth arched her back and ran her hands across Jack's back, pulling him in against her. Bringing her hands around, she reached down and unbuttoned his pants when the doorbell rang.
Opening the door, Charlotte stuck her head in, "Hello? Everyone decent?"
Startled, Elizabeth pushed Jack off and he fell to the floor. Grabbing her shirt, she covered herself and tried to hold back the laughter as Jack scrambled, lying flat on the floor, trying to button his jeans.
"Hello? Anyone home?"
"Ma!" Jack shouted, standing with his shirt in his hand, trying to pull it over his head, only to put it on backwards.
"Oh, hi, Dear," she said, walking toward the couch.
Trying to hurry around the furniture to block his mom from seeing Elizabeth, Jack stumbled and when he caught himself, Charlotte was already there.
"What is wro...oh dear."
"Good morning, Charlotte," Elizabeth said, her cheeks red and warm as she remained lying on the couch with her shirt clutched to her chest.
"I'm so sorry," she said as she spun around and walked to the front door.
"Did you need something, Ma?" Jack asked, finally getting his shirt on correctly.
"Not really, I just wanted to see how your trip to see Elizabeth's family went."
"It was very nice," Jack said, crossing his arms and staring at his mom.
"Sorry, kids. I'll get out of here." Turning, she opened the door and stepped outside.
"Hey, Ma." Jack said, holding the door and standing in the opening.
"Yes," she said, turning to face him.
"You know you're welcome here anytime. Just please call first."
Smiling and nodding, "Yes, Son. I will be sure to do that."
"We'll come by later and tell you all about the trip."
With her smile growing, she turned toward her truck, "Call first. Frank is coming over today."
Closing the door, Jack stopped and pulled it back open, "Wait, what?"
Laughing she looked over her shoulder, "I'm kidding, Jack. Come on over anytime."
As Jack closed the door, Elizabeth walked up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist, kissing the back of his neck. "Now, where were we?"
…..
After lunch, Jack took Elizabeth's hand and led her to their Christmas tree. "Now, it's our time to exchange gifts." Jack reached under the tree and pulled out a small box and handed it to her.
With her eyes sparkling like a child's, she sat down on the ottoman and unwrapped the box. Lifting the lid off, Elizabeth pulled out a purple opal bracelet.
"Oh, Jack. This is gorgeous," she responded, turning it over in her hand. "Opals."
"Yes. That's your birthstone, right?"
"Yes, it is," she replied smiling. "Can you put this on me, please?"
Taking the bracelet, Jack wrapped it around her petite wrist and fastened the clasp.
"Where did you find this? I've never seen purple ones before."
"Actually, I found it while we were shopping at that little shop by the beach at St. Martin."
Inlaid in sterling silver, the small rectangular opals were alive with purples, greens and turquoise, each one linked to the next. Spinning it around her wrist, she watched as the light hit the jewels, making the colors look as if they were moving.
Wrapping her arms around his neck, she kissed him. "Thank you so much, Jack. This is beautiful."
"I have something else for you, too. I couldn't figure out how to wrap it though. I'll be right back."
A couple minutes later, Jack returned, peeking around the wall, "Close your eyes."
Once she closed and covered her eyes, Jack continued into the room, setting the gift on the floor next to the ottoman.
Elizabeth could hear metal jingling and could smell fresh leather. With her curiosity getting the better of her, she finally spoke up, "Can I look yet?"
"One second," Jack replied. "Okay, open your eyes."
Lowering her hands, Elizabeth saw Jack smiling, proudly standing next to a brand-new saddle sitting on an aluminum saddle rack. Standing and walking over to it, she ran her hand along the cushioned seat.
"Oh, Jack. This is beautiful. This is mine?"
"Yes, I thought you could use one that was actually your size. I had it custom made to fit Wrangler, too."
"This is wonderful," she jumped into his arms, wrapping hers around his neck. "Thank you."
"You're welcome, Beth."
Getting excited, she stepped back, "We need to do your presents now." Taking his hand, she led him back to the tree. "Here, this one first," she said, handing him a small box. "Tom and Lee helped me pick this out."
Pulling the lid off the box, Jack saw a pocket knife inside with a pair team roping engraved into the wood. "This is awesome, Beth," Jack exclaimed, turning it in his hand and flipping the blade in and out. "Thank you," he said as he leaned in and kissed her.
"There's more," she said as she pulled out a larger box from beneath the tree and handed it to him.
Tearing the paper off, Jack let it drop to the floor. Opening his new knife, he grinned at Elizabeth then used it to cut the tape that held the box closed. Closing his knife, he laid it next to him and proceeded to open the box. Inside was a brand-new blue lariat and blue roping glove.
Pulling them out of the box, Jack said, "These are perfect, Beth. Thank you."
"Lee thought you could use a new one and said you'd like this color. He bought one for himself, too."
"This is great. I can't wait to use it." Standing up, he let out the loop a bit and swung it around, trying it out. "This is really perfect, Beth." Walking back to her, he covered her lips with his, kissing her deep and hard.
When he stepped back, Elizabeth returned to the tree. "There's one more," she said, sitting down with a small box on her lap. Picking up her phone, she sent a quick text then laid it down and waited.
Still playing with the rope, Jack stopped and looked at her. "Oh, sorry," he said, then sat in front of her.
"No, you're fine. It will just be a minute." Hearing her phone notification chime, she picked it up and read the message, then laid her phone back down. "Ok, here, you can open this now."
Taking the box, Jack unwrapped it and lifted the lid off. "What's this for?" He asked, holding out a camo-colored collar.
Just then, the door opened and a puppy came running inside. Confused at his new surroundings, he began to run around and whine.
"Who is this?" Jack asked, standing and walking to find the puppy, returning with it in his hands as the puppy licked his face.
"Merry Christmas," Elizabeth said, standing and approaching Jack. "Do you like him?"
"What? He's mine?" Jack grinned, his dimples deep and prominent.
Elizabeth nodded.
Holding the pup out at arms' length, Jack looked him over. "He's kind of awesome," he said, pulling the pup back to his chest. "He has one green eye and one blue eye."
"I know. I thought that was cool."
"It is, very." Jack bent down and set the pup on the floor and watched as he ran all over. "What's his name?"
"That's up to you," Elizabeth answered, sitting on the floor next to Jack.
Jack sat back, thinking it over, then smiled, "Wyatt."
"That's a great name."
"I've always wanted a dog named Wyatt."
"Well, now you've got one."
Jack turned to Elizabeth and pressed his body against hers, and with his hand behind her neck, he lowered her to the floor and laid across her, kissing her. A few seconds later, the puppy began to crawl across them and started chewing on Elizabeth's hair. Laughing, the pair sat up as Jack held Wyatt.
"Oh, shoot," Elizabeth shouted, jumping to her feet. She pulled the door open and welcomed Tom inside. "I'm so sorry. I forgot you were out here."
Tom laughed, "Don't worry about it. He liked him?"
"Oh, I'm pretty sure he does," she answered pointing toward Jack who was now laying on the floor with Wyatt on his chest, letting him lick his face.
"Hey, there, Brother," Tom said as he entered the room.
Sitting up, Jack replied, "Hey, Bro." Getting to his feet, he set the pup on the floor and they all watched as he ran around, getting used to his new home.
"He's one of Jed's Aussies."
"Oh, really? I thought he was done with that."
"This was his final litter and I knew you loved his dogs, so Beth and I went over as soon as they were born and picked him out."
Wyatt was a red merle standard Australian Shepherd with a full white chest and white front paws, full of energy and bouncing all around the room.
"How old is he?" Jack asked.
"He's nine weeks," Tom answered. "We've had him at our house for a week and he's already house trained, so...you're welcome," he teased.
"Wow, that's great news," Jack slapped his brother on the back. "Thanks, Tom."
Pointing toward Elizabeth, Tom replied, "It was all her. She picked him out and made all the arrangements."
Moving to Elizabeth, Jack pulled her against him, kissing her hard as if his brother wasn't standing next to them. "Thank you, Babe."
"You're welcome," she replied, and turned to Tom. "Thanks for all your help."
"My pleasure," Tom responded. "Well, I need to get home to help Sam. The kids are being a bit crazy tonight with the pup gone."
Jack and Elizabeth walked Tom to the door, telling him goodbye. Jack closed the door after he drove off and locked it.
"Yes, we need to remember to keep that locked," Elizabeth joked.
Feeling something tugging at his pantleg, Jack looked down to find Wyatt chewing on his jeans. Bending down, he picked him up and laughed as the pup began licking him all over his cheek.
"What are we going to do with you tonight, big guy?"
"Oh, I have a kennel, toys and food for him," Elizabeth said as she headed toward the steps that led downstairs. "I'll be right back."
Returning a few minutes later, she set the new kennel on the island, opened the door, and pulled out all the contents.
"I might have gotten carried away with the toys," she laughed as she tossed ten toys onto the floor.
Jack set Wyatt on the floor and they watched as he went crazy in the pile, unable to decide which one to play with first. Taking the double food dish, she filled one side with water and poured puppy food into the other, then set it on the floor.
Wyatt immediately went to it, lapping up half the water.
The couple spent the rest of the evening playing with their new puppy, frequently taking him outside to avoid an accident in the house. In the late hours, they tucked him in for the night in his new kennel and placed it in the corner of the kitchen near the mud room.
Walking toward the stairs, Jack scooped Elizabeth into his arms and carried her up to their bedroom, closing the door behind them.
…..
With work, the puppy, chores, and keeping up the ranch, time flew as the newlyweds easily fell into their new normal. January came and went and it was February before they knew it. New Year's Eve had been spent with Lee and Rosie at Tom's house, playing games and having a few drinks. Plans for the wedding had begun as soon as Lee and Rosie returned from Cancun, having had a spectacular time in the warmer weather.
Wyatt was settled into his new home and was already learning tricks. Elizabeth had begun an ASL class in town, quickly catching on and loved using her new language with Savannah every chance she got.
One evening, as Elizabeth soaked in the large bathtub, Jack walked into the room, stripped, and stepped in with her. Sitting on the opposite end, he held his hand out for hers and pulled her over him. Elizabeth lowered her lips to his, kissing him softly, then moved to his ears, gently sucking on his ear lobes. Jack gripped her hips, squeezing her flesh as a reaction to her warm breaths in his ear, and lifted her slightly, bringing her down on him, feeling her tightness as he entered her.
Getting into a rhythmic motion, working together to bring each other to that meteoric event, that moment in time when all the stars aligned and they were truly one, as God had created them to be.
…..
February 13th, 2010 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Elizabeth was standing at the bathroom sink, about to push the small pill from the pack, when Jack walked in and stood behind her, kissing her neck.
Watching her begin to remove the pill, Jack moved his hand over the pack, curling his fingers around it, stopping her from completing her task.
"What if you don't take that?"
Looking at Jack's reflection in the mirror, she tipped her head sideways and gave him a funny look. "Then, I'll probably get pregnant."
"Okay." Jack paused for a brief moment, "What would be wrong with that?"
Elizabeth turned to face him, eyeing him to see if he was serious.
Jack cupped her face in his hands and kissed her softly, grazing her jaw with his thumbs. "What if we tried for a baby now."
"I thought you wanted to wait for a while?"
"I thought I did, too." Jack spun her to face the mirror again, moving his hands to cover her stomach. "I've been dreaming of you carrying my child. Night after night, I see your belly, moving with a life inside, growing a child that is part of you and part of me. I've wasted enough of my life; I want to start living it."
Elizabeth opened her mouth to speak then stopped, thinking over what he'd just said. Looking down at the pills that were still in her hand, taking a deep breath, then glancing back at Jack's reflection in the mirror, she locked eyes with his. Smiling, she nodded her head.
"Yeah?" Jack asked, a boyish grin spreading across his face.
"Yeah."
Turning her back to face him, Jack picked her up and spun her around before setting her back down.
"We should start trying now," he teased, taking the pill pack from her hand and tossing it onto the counter.
"Jack, the birth control will stay in my system for a bit, it's not going to magically happen today."
"But we can still practice," he said, taking her hand and pulling her toward the bedroom.
