In Feb of 1987. We drew the short straws at the town council meeting for every two months the council sends a couple of board members to get usual supplies loud and plus the sheriffs. But with winter coming fast only one sheriff could go for the supplies loud to San Francisco. Jack said

With our Canada neighbors to the north. They trade fress for their traplines and puppies for food and other supplies I about puppies beside Mr. Sean ask jack to get him a puppy. I named my dog Kipp if someone asks I wouldn't have really explained why it just suits him somehow. Smart little thing he was and jack said it was never too early to start training and so I did in starting training him when we got back to hope. Kipp needs exercise so I for I take him out for walks bundling myself up a great the cold and it was a good way to get my exercise as well. As the week went bye even I went to town I picked up and carried him he was getting heavy and he all was getting an inpatient with me he hated to be carried he wasn't to run but I fearful of all the dogfights I see to town and I not want him to be a take so if we want to town or nabirye's for bible study. I picked up Kipp. As the week went by more snow pile up around the town the people concerned about food and wood supplies it took all the time and a tension to make a meal or two for the day and to keep their house haw. In the Metal of January, a bad storm hit in all of my life never see snowfall in so short time. I was worried about my neighbors and jack he was out in the whiteness with the sled dogs. The temperature dropped the water in the basin again with ice. When the worst of the storm was over Mrs. Salma and Mrs. Stella came for tea it had been several weeks had Company and I was so glad to see them. Elizabeth said

A week later

Storm after storm hit the small town we live one day to next excepting the weather as came. On the good day when the wind comes down, I want out with Kipp, on the days of wild wind and snow I shivered and Sad in. I come to hated wind not only cold and miserable but confiding and I wood soon lean deadly. It became a long day even Kipp was no help to fillet long day I talk to him and fed him and petted him night came I set up carol's up in blankets tucked between pillows on a clot Kipp snuggles at my feet now and then listen intently to the wind howling along with the coyotes hey steward but did not answer in the coyotes call I watch the fire closely I dozed off and now again towards morning I finally gave in and fell asleep most nights I could sleep except for the first night that I came out to the town. I woke to the cabin shaking with the wind The fire was nearly out I quickly went to rebuild the fire with fuel The wind seemed her screaming through every crack and crevice of the cabin what temperature hundred up to, even more, smells the worlds all around the entire town and cabin. Even Kipp wasn't easy. All day soon I knew I would be drawing from the supplier outside the door. I wondered about the Indian and neighboring families they weren't as well stocked firewood as I had been surely by now they would've exhausted their supply. With my fingers I scratched a spot in the frosted window and looked out I couldn't see in the buildings of the town I couldn't even see in the birch tree that was 15 feet or so from the door of the cabin all I could see you always angry swirling snow I tried to drink a cup of tea but my shook when I left in the cup to my mouth I fed the fire I prayed I walked the floor I pray I read my Bible I pray somehow even longer second day storm of passed by hour by hour still another night I didn't go to bed Kipp Whimpered un easy pressed his nose against my hand I stroked his rich fluffy Further. Somehow we made it through Another night we Woke to a another day of snow and wind I thought I couldn't stand it the wind was driving me mad with it's cyst sensing howling sound I clang to my bible and prayed in till I feel exhausted middle morning and praying for what seems like hours I feel asleep the long days and sleepless nights had taken there tole and my body demand rest even if my mind fought a gist it. When I woke sleepy I couldn't believe my eyes sunshine the wind had stop the snow wasn't falling the storm had passed I wanted to shout I wanted to run I wanted to back of confining Cabin and find hillman Companionship how they all farad thought the story. Then I realize the fires no longer burning I'm most get them burning quickly I only have a few pieces of wood lift that I had brought in for outside but there was plenty by the door. I rushed to get some but I couldn't budge the door 🚪I punished again not understanding it wouldn't give. The snow had drifted us in. I tried again surely we want to be shut in here long surely with enough string I could get it open I tried again and again but The door would not budge I let the fire in the kitchen still go out and kept the fireplace burning to conserve this small amount of fuel I had. I walk to the window and scratch a spot to look down at the town I could see smoke rising from the cabins and town buildings there was stirring about as people and dogs move Death buildings. The fire went out I wrapped myself in blankets upon clot even that was cold I began to fear for my hands and feet I picked up the fire running from the floor and wrapped myself in that too it was ball team but it did all right for some protection Kipp Wind to go out there was no way I could let him. I thought about trying to push him through the window hoping that he might run down to the town and I druther attention my whereabouts. The window was too small for Kipp Full grown body. The night was coming again and I bundled I self up as best as I could I'm trying to go to sleep I feel asleep praying I heard remember stirrings once or twice during the night feeling terribly cold in my A stand I couldn't sort out The reason the cold Kipp stirred to. I pulled the blankets closer and more tightly around myself Kipp curled up on my feet he felt heavy but I didn't make he move. Elizabeth said

Hello in there Mr. Mikael said

I struggle out of the blankets covering and hurried to the door it's still would not open I cried out I can't open the door as loudly as I could I heard shovels then someone's digging us out it was Mikael and a couple of the Indian man I was glad to see them I was disappointed that jack with. When the door was cleared enough so they could come in the cabin. Elizabeth said

How are you Mikael said?

I'm fine I think Elizabeth said (trying my legs and arms to make sure they work)

How long how are you been without heat Mikael said

Just overnight Elizabeth said

That is too long, how are your fingers Mikael said

Fine Elizabeth said

You're feet Mikael said

Ok Elizabeth said

Let see them Mikael said

I started to print test but Mikael wasn't having it. Elizabeth said

I don't know how you manage to keep them from freezing Mikael said

Kipp sleep on them Elizabeth said

Well, I'll be (as he laughed) well boy running his hand through Kipp fine Further you're more than just pretty. Mikael said

One of the Indian men had made a fire in the fireplace it was burning briskly Elizabeth said

We got to thaw this place out (as he crossed to the kitchen) This water in the panel is frozen solid Mikael said

It was so was the basin and so was I discovered to my Dismay my China teapot it had split straight down the center from the freezing tea all the day's tea with Friends were behind me. Elizabeth said

You better get your feet dressed Mikael said

I put on the moccasins nabirye's Mikael wife had given me on going to the kitchen to see what other damage had been done A few cans of food we're split from the frost as well. The pill was OK for the dipper sitting in it and had given It a set an upward instead of an out words one I wasn't sure on the cattle I would have to wait until it thoud out to know if leaked. The Basin was OK to it had planted sites so the ice seemed to slide up them. There really hasn't been too much damage. Thankfully I have still had all my toes and fingers. Elizabeth said

We didn't see any smoke for your chimney this morning you gave us quite a scare Mikael said

I was scared to I didn't know when someone would come to Elizabeth said

The storm was rough for everyone. Nabirye's has A. Fort people she's trying is training to get a hot meal of food into. A Number of families ran out of wood Mikael said

Wise any life's taken by the storm. Elizabeth said

We lost a few mostly older ones little girl died she was always sickly that's cold was just too much for her. It's been hard for Nabirye's girl was one of her special pets Mikael said

Polar Nabirye's, The fires were burning brightly now and the room was losing some of it's Chill it would be sometime in till it was warm again the two in the Indian Man left Mikael brought in a decent supply of the wood stacked by the wall outside the door and here to turned to go Elizabeth said

You shouldn't be just fine now he assured me well keep a better look out from now on I don't think it will blow tonight Sky looks clear Mikael said

Can I come with you I asked quickly I knew Nabirye's needed my help I was torn going to her and waiting in the cabin in case my boyfriend Jack my conscience one over my heart I reached for my heavy coat Kipp move to follow me but I pushed him back you were here Elizabeth said

I don't mind if you bring him with you if you like Mikael said

You might get enough light with a dog in town Elizabeth said

He might Mikael said

I wouldn't want him hurt Elizabeth said

Is that why you usually carry him Mikael said

We shut the door on the whining Kipp making our way across the giraffes of snow the town. My breath my is blowing in front of me puffy white clouds I didn't answer Mikael he was walking too briskly for me to maneuver my snowshoes keep up and talk all at the same time I nodded my head. Elizabeth said

You plan on keeping him in all my time now Mikael said

I shook my head Elizabeth said

What will you do Mikael said?

Out near the creek and out in the wilderness in the opposite direction of the town as I waved my hands and shook my head Elizabeth said

You know you won't be able to keep him away from dogs forever Mikael said

I had thought of that Elizabeth said

And appears to me Kipp would hold his own pretty good in a fight you been feeding him well he has several pounds on some of the other dog's Town dogs that just grab range for their food. He has had good exercise so he's developed decent bones Muscle. He is right smart I think he'll just handle himself against another dog send a husky Mikael said

I wasn't sure what Mikael was telling me Elizabeth said

I'm saying With a child or a dog you got to give them a chance to grow up naturally like you can't pamper them forever or you spoil them they were never meant to me Kipp husky sure there is scrappy bunch when need arises no need to well arise someday. I think you should give Kipp chance to prove himself for he gets up against another animal and his life depends on it Mikael said

I wanted to argue you with him that Kipp would never to fight that I would keep him away from such circumstances but I knew Mr. Yost was right probably Kipp would have to be used to his surroundings he would have to be prepared to live where ever I hated the thought but it was true I walked on in silence slowly turning over in my mind. The worms Mikael beside me and said I would have to let Kipp grow up I would have to expose him to the world life I would talk to jack and see if he agreed with him only if he was in town before the storm hit but of course not he was out he was out protecting the town and had been gone already three days I blinked back tears that made little icicles on my cheeks and hurried after Mikael nabirye's needed me. The situation at the Valley Springstore what is even worse than I expected people overcrowded in everywhere Nabirye's Busy filling bowls from a steaming pot of thin soup Dave me a thin welcoming smile Mrs. Sam was the only one in the group that I recognized besides of course nabirye I had seen some of the children had gathered around nabirye for her storytelling some of the people had bandages on their hands or her feet I assumed they were being treated for frostbite I crossed over to Mrs. Sam where is your husband I asked her when she looked at me and blankly I said Where is Sam Elizabeth said

The supplies loud run Mrs. Sam said

What about others Melissa, Jessica and Anna have you seen them she shook her head we stared at each other recognizing the questions and concern in their eyes. I wasn't sure whether their husbands were out working as well or not not sure how much difference it would make having them home or away nabirye was relieved to see me Elizabeth said

I'm so glad you're all right (as she's served the last bowl of Soup) that was the worst storm I remember I was afraid you wouldn't have enough Wood nabirye said

(Apparently, Mikael hadn't told her about the smokeless chimney wanting to alarm her until he checked further) oh iI had plenty of wood what can I do to help Elizabeth said

That was people over there still haven't had anything to eat for I run out of bowls and cups. I don't know Nabirye said

What about Miss Francis would she have some bowls we could borrow Elizabeth said

I hadn't thought of that Nabirye said

I'll go see I hurried out the door and around back building A call give me permission to answer enter I found Francis in a warm sitting room in front of the fireplace her feet on a block of wood it to exhort the heat her hands folded in her lap I started looking at her wonderment wondering if she was totally oblivious too all next-door I finally found my voice I came because of Nabirye I began she has two or three dozen to feed and she's run out of dishes we were wondering if we could borrow some she didn't even look at me. Elizabeth said

I guess you can relentlessly just make sure in their boy when you bring them back Francis said

Do you realize There are people just Beyond that wall fighting for their life to know that some of them they will lose their fingers or toes and Nabirye has been up half the night taken care of them And here you sit all bundled up in your self-pity thinking only about yourself and your last love Well do you know what I think I think you're well ride of the man If he Thought No more of you To desserts you because of the whining accusing sister then he wasn't much of a man And know what else I think I was pretty sure Francis wasn't one bit interested in what I think but I want on it anyway I think after 20 years were still sitting by your fire Tending your little hurt Well people out there are suffering cold and hungry and you're not much of a woman either maybe the doctors wife was right maybe poor little Mikael was better off without you. I left the room slamming the door behind me I was halfway back to the store before what I've just done fully hit me I bit my lip The tears started to flow I've been praying so diligently for this woman and trying so hard to show her real loving and compassion Nabirye hand trying to break down the barriers for so many years And I just wiped any Faint possibility of progress in a mom meant of anger I would have to apologize I didn't expect her to except I would never be able to repair the done God forgive me I should have never said that the apologize would have to wait nabirye needed me now. We worked until noon The people were fed and looked after and to the best of our ability Mikael and some of the man inspection of the towns housing it was even worse than we thought besides the little girl the storm had claimed five victims in old man and is equally old wife living a alone in a cabin on the edge of Village and Grandmother in the household of the driver for the town and an elderly and gentleman who is sick before the storm struck The genera Opinion he would have died in anyway because of his weakened condition All so dead was a middle aged woman who tried to collect more wood and lost her away in the storm because of the heavy snow and the cold water digging of Graves was impossible so all the dead bodies were to be bundled up in blankets and tied up in branches of the trees to wait for springtime Indian people and a special type of trees just for that purpose The bearing trees as Mikael call them but before the bunnies couldn't be prepared for burial trees they had to be examined by the police and permission Given so they were lined up In a vacating cabin to wait the return of jack or Bill Caring for the needs of the people in town help to some-extent help take my mind off the winter as well as jack a nor his absence completely throughout the day Nabirye and I hand our hands fall all those who needed our help by early afternoon The store was beginning to empty mini now had gathered a fuel for in there fires their own cabins that was remaining behind needed to be fed again so I worked over the stew pot A another all skanky meal together and ready for them nabirye had just finished checking it's swollen hand when I heard her exclamation Elizabeth said

Francis are you all right Nabirye said

I swung around and sure enough there was there stood miss Francis I knew my apology was overdue and shouldn't be put off but this seems to like the time or place I wasn't sure what to do miss Francis said nothing so nabirye went on Elizabeth said

Did you want something Nabirye said?

Yes matter of fact I Wants to help Francis said

I don't know who was more surprised by the words Francis said nabirye or I both like that Francis with our mouth wide open her eyes were red and swollen I could tell she had been weeping Elizabeth said

I Wants to help Can you tell me what I do Francis said

Well we're fixing some eat again some of these people have just come in they haven't had anything to eat for a couple of days Elizabeth is making some stew well will need the dishes we haven't had time to wash the dishes yet nabirye motioning to the dishpan filled with dirty dishes still sitting on the back of the big stove nabirye said

Without a word move to the dishpan rolled up her sleeves and set to work nabirye look at me and I just shrugged my shoulders helplessly I had no idea what had brought about the change and I wasn't about to ask here by mid-afternoon we had done all we could do for the town folks now had already turned to their homes smoke released from the cabin in the town clearings nabirye suggested we should sit down and have a cup of tea but I said I would rather get back home Kipp was still in an unintended surely by now in the fire would have burned out leaving the cabin cold again with all these reasons nabirye me let go. Kipp was excited to see me Nearly knocking me over with his excitement I let him out for a run well I rebuilt the fires It took A while for the rooms to warm up Tea kennel to sing it leak a little around the spout but it was still usable I shed tears or two over my teapot now I want a cup of hot tea I finally dug out a small pot and made tea in that. Maybe I imagined it but for some reason, it Quite tastes the Same When darkness comes the cabin was quite warm and Cozy but I still Felt chills pass through me where was jack how long did it take to find a Lost trapper I sat before my fire reading. Finally I puts them book aside and paste the floor finally I banked the fire curling up in piles of blankets on the cart yet again Kipp came up and curled up with me this time I didn't scold him for being on the court I remember the night before I the fact that Kipp might have saved my toes there was a full moon and streamed through the small frosted window it seemed ever so bright reflecting off of the fresh blown snow and was trying to pray again when there was like a motion at the door and before I could even warm my way out of the blankets jack was their I didn't even jump up and run to him I just buried my face in my hands and began to Sob in till my whole body shook I was so really you so thankful to see he safely home my boyfriend and neighbor he walked over and took his arms as I clang to him. He holds me for a long time stroking my hair and patting my back Elizabeth said

There is there Elizabeth jack said

As if he was talking to a small child we didn't try to talk we really didn't need. Later we were here for One another all the details for long miserable days. For now, it was enough just to be to gather again. Next morning jack Busy and Unpleasant Day a pond his return a porn the Body's awaiting his investigation he also brought one back with him on the dogsled. It was a sad time for all of us after in the Body's inspected jack and bill filed the reports Indian people were given permission to bury their people. Apparently Bill had just come in the town that morning as well and met jack heading into town it was a Salamis Assembly filed Single file out of the town that afternoon and made their way to the bearing trees jack and I joined the salamis procession I sound of morning Sent chills up and down my spine I had never heard anything like it before not the sound of weeping it was a cry and whine A deep guttural lament meant Rose and fell As the colonist moved along it tore at my soul and I went quietly with the mourners at home as twilight came The drums took up their steady beat and they echoed through in the town thumping out there messenger of death even Kipp starred and Wind well they keep on all night I asked jack as he dropped me off at my door. Feeling restless and energy at the attention of the beating. Elizabeth said

Oh no they should be stopping anytime now jack said

Out the window I could see in the settlement Below Open bonfires in the central area around the fires the Indians moved in and dance pattern The drummers who sat in the firelight beating the drums with their hands and chanting a monetary tune Rose and fell Night air Jack was right the drumming stopped as a bruply as it had begun I looked out the window again and saw silhouette of people disappearing into the show of the buildings the fires had dim down to a distant glow the dead had a prompt and respectable burial. January passed into February we had more storms none of the violence of the mid January blizzard for the most part Life seem to slide into a study settle day routine we still continuing our Bible studies and Miss Francis never missed a study even though she was difficult at times her attitude had changed from the inside out I never did apologize for my outburst not that I wasn't willing to do so it just didn't seem the appropriate thing to do under the circumstances thank you Lord I Pray for turning something bad into something good. Kip was a beautiful dog I discussed with Jack what Mikael he'd said I had to allow Kipp to find his place in dog community of the town do you think is right I asked really like Fearing jack Might agree with Mikael Elizabeth said

I'm afraid so Elizabeth it will come sooner or later whether you want it to or not Kipp will challenge he'll either need to meet the challenge or run jack said

I couldn't imagine Kipp running I wanna wasn't sure I wanted him to run But a fight but I didn't want that either do you think he's ready now I asked Elizabeth said

Don't rush things I don't squeeze my hand there's plenty of time jack said

My friends from the town keeping the fires going and their families fed to have much time tea occasionally one or two did appear for a few minutes The women that I had joined in the berry patch brought new neighbors for me to meet we still hadn't learned each other's languages many of the women knew some English words most often the words were he needed training at the post, not words used for a chat over a cup of tea with all of us combining our knowledge and by using our hands Exactly We did manage to take come verse some.
Win late February came I began to think spring but Jack warned me to we rarely have a spring we jump straight into summer after winter It seems that winter had been upon us for years seem to me one day in Mach nabirye came to see me an alone it wasn't our Bible study day I was a bit surprised Elizabeth said

Do you have time to talk for a while nabirye said

She put aside her coat and and took a seat at the table in the kitchen I push the cattle forward on the stove adding another stick of wood and waiting for her to begin Elizabeth said

I have been thinking about the verse we started the other day the one about Christ dying for the ungodly I'm on godly nabirye said

We all are without God. I a green in a whisper Elizabeth said

You two but nabirye said

I'm Bible says we all have sinned remember It inverse a couple of weeks ago Elizabeth said

I remember I just don't Think of it at the time I guess nabirye said

Well it's true bible also says there are none righteous not even one nabirye sat silent Elizabeth said

I remember that to nabirye said

Well when yet we were sinners he loved us Elizabeth said

That is the part is so hard for me to understand I can't imagine someone died for us, Elizabeth I am terrible wicked person you don't know you don't know what I all most did nabirye said

Do you want to tell me Elizabeth said

I took care of crazy Mary I brought all her meals then be sent to wash her hands I am Brandon used her tell that refused to heal from the freezing winter each time I went we spoke together I tried to encourage her that things would work out but each time I went she begged or just one thing she pleaded with me to bring it to her each time I refused she won in her hunting knife. Nabirye said

I couldn't understand nabirye words. There was silence as I puzzle over them. Why was she wicked for taking such care of Mary? Finally, nabirye is had come up. Elizabeth said

I knew why she wanted her knife she couldn't Bear to be shut up Cage like like a chicken nabirye said

I understood it then crazy Mary had intended to take her own life. Elizabeth said

Well I kept saying no. Then the other morning I couldn't stand it anymore she was going wild in the little room. And soon she would be taken away far away from her land, and her people, and locked up in another room forever, it would kill her it would kill her slowly. What it wood be more merciful to let her die all at once. And so I found her knife I tucked it in my dresser and took it to her. When I went to take Her breakfast to her only when I got there crazy Mary was dead. Nabirye said

Yes I knew Mary mercifully already gone My mind was willing I heart was thumping what can I say to the anguished nabirye did she truly realize the seriousness have her near crime either Bill or Jack would have had to arrest her she would've been locked up in Little room at the back of her husband store she would've been sentenced out for a trial and sentencing You would've been implicated in a terrible crime The horror The whole thing washed through me making me a Trumbull but nabirye was continuing Elizabeth said

I was very on justice I am a sinner I thought before versus that it was speaking of someone else now I know it speaks of me my heart is very heavy Elizabeth I couldn't sleep last night I love him. This Jesus but I have heard him with my Sin nabirye said

I couldn't have told nabirye, what she had done was not wrong I believed it. Would've been a terrible thing if she had been partied to Mary suicide but God had kept I Thank God for his intervention and mercy I send nothing about the acronym that nabirye had all most commended instead I talked about white now must be done about it. Nabirye When I realized I was a sinner I could do nothing myself to atone for my sins I did the only thing one can do that is necessary to do I excepted God has provided for all mankind his forgiveness. There in the death of his son Jesus he died for our sins so ween die for our own sins I don't understand this kind of love that either near nabirye but I don't know what it's real for I have felt it when I praying to God ask his forgiveness and check his son as my same here that love filled me Elizabeth said

He wouldn't do that for me nabirye said

He wants to he Aches for it That's why he came and die he Love miss you so much nabirye, even though nabirye eyes hers remain dry mine nor filled with tears green powder hands I pray and then Nabirye pray hers was a beautifully simple prayer beginning Faith and repentance and ending with joy and praising. I reached over and hugged her and holding her for a moment when we had finished praying even nabirye eyes were wet now we spent some time looking at his reassurance and promise in the Bible and then nabirye rushed home to share the news with Mikael And Miss Francis if she left in the house that day and my heart was singing nabirye was even more special friend she was a believed sister as well we had no idea how quick lane nabirye newfound faith would be tested not even a week later disaster struck The whole town was just suffer the consequences but nabirye and Mikael would be hurt the most Elizabeth said

A week later

Elizabeth and I start the night talking and fell asleep by the fireplace until nearly 2 o'clock in the morning when voices loud and excited reached our cabin we scrambled up from the floor realizing the fire had gone out and yet we had fallen asleep and hurry to the window The whole world seems like it was on let up with an orange-red glow Fire is what I said before he even reached the window jack said

Oh no dear God I prayed out loud but it was looking for a moment like the whole main town was going up in smoke jack had to straighten most of the wrinkles out of his clothes in the time it took me to realize what was unfolding before my eyes Elizabeth said

You stay here Elizabeth I'll send people if they need your help you know where all my medical supplies are kept get them out and ready if they're needed jack said

Jack was gone before I could even speak to him. I dressed hurriedly Afraid I would be needed even before I could fill out the orders Jack had just said. The noise outside grew louder I could hear in the cracking of the flames 🔥 now as well. Kipp wind and move towards the door his Inc. told him that there was danger. Its all right Kipp I spoke soothingly to him you're safe here. I still didn't know what was burning after all. I had followed all of the orders jack laid out with medical supplies and bandages and the burnt ointment I had found. I put more wood in the fire and put a full kennel on to boil in case it was needed. Smoke was in the air now seeping through every available space into the cabin the small Second me Foreign meant Pain and lost and even possible death I went to the window to see I could tell how much of the small town had been taken by the fire it was the Bay Valley Springstore what is burning wild flames rocketed sky awards Man mounds around them build thing there was little they really can do. There was really no fire equipment in the village only buckets and snowdrifts and against such a fire these had a very useful effect. One cabin close to in the building was also burning I prayed for the occupants safety. I began to pick out for figures than for men on roofs of the other buildings there was bucket brigade's feeding them buckets of snow Women and children mounds around in the streets or moans around in groups helplessly. The whole scene was one of the spare and a whore noise at the door brought me from the window three women stood against the night one handsome baby her arms. One of the others helped a child by the hand I had seen them at the trading post before when I and nabirye served out soup at the Store after storm challenge I did not know them by name come and I said how is nabirye hove you see nabirye One lady shook her head but others looked blankly they push the little girl for your face was strict with it and went from tears she had an ugly burden on her hand I took off her coat and knelt before her I had no training in treating a burns I grabbed a jar of ointment and read the label you didn't tell me as much as I needed to know I felt I should clean the wound somehow but how I got a basin of water and warmed it to my touch I didn't want to damage the burden tissue for in there with a cloth I want but away most of the dirt and grime trying not to hurt the girl and generously applied the appointment and found it with a clean bandage I soon as I had finished the money letter with the baby hold him out to me and coughed to show that the baby hand had a problem She pointed out the window at the fire and coughed again she said smoke I asked her if he choked on the smoke she said smoke again smoke-inflation what can I do about that I have no idea how that was treated and if I had known I was sure I wouldn't have what I need to do to treat it with I took the baby to put their minds at ease I had to do something what God What do they do to make breathing easier The only thing I had ever heard he's breathing was Steam and it could be the worst thing I can do I didn't know I am bundled them being me on the caught then I dug through the supplies Help their infant I couldn't find nothing that was labeled for smoky-insulation I finally took some appointment that was good for chest Congress and rubbed a small amount on the little chest I had not yet finished with the baby and when the door opened and more women and children and tear the small cabin more from afraid then injury few of them had a small burner to thankfully nothing major The smell of smoke was on their clothes and afraid of fire in their face whenever a new group joined us I asked the same question nabirye have you seen the Barack are they all right I got the shrugs and blank looks in return, the morning sun was pulling it self to a sitting position When jack comes in caring and young man who had a badly burned foot in I was glad to see him I was And sorry for the night young man nabirye I asked again what about the Barack Elizabeth said

Their fine all three of them jack said

I was thankful and relieved and then jack gave instructions on what he wanted done to care for the foot I carried them out in the best of my abilities after the young man was given to me medication turn down the pain jack did what he could to a friend the ugly burn then he bandage the foot lightly and left the man on our caught and went back to help with the fire before he left he pulled Close even though I didn't hold me long there was a number of eyes upon us I think Will be able to save that other homes. The fire is past its worst it shouldn't be long before before you can start sending them home jack whispered before he left I looked around at the still afraid faces sergeant Thorsten says the fire soon will be over I am formed them gesturing with my hands as well and then you all able to go home The rest of your homes are quite safe you can go back to them I wasn't sure how many of them understood my words I still only knew a few words in there tongue and none of them dealt with Fire but first will have some tea it took a lot of tea that morning and we had to take turns with the cups even though it's seem to lift the spirits and gloom from the room even some of the ladies began to chat it was a great relief to me I checked on the young man with the bad burn he seem to be resting as comfortably as he could be under the circumstances I asked him if he would like some tea but he just shook his head as the morning progressed the fire A small measure of rubbl or little groups ladies and children who began to leave the cabin The young man had fallen asleep whether from medication or from exhaustion I did not know I set about doing the dishes and tidying up A small room by the time jack returned the young man how to walk was asking the questions me that I could not understand or answer I was glad to see jack For he would know what the fellow wanted I met Jack at the door after quick look to assure myself that he was OK I indicated the man on the caught he's been trying to ask me something I told Jack I have no idea what he's trying to say jack Crossed crossed the room to the young man knelt beside him he talk to him and his soft native tongue jack spunky Again and with an out of his head he rose and left in them young man to his feet I am taking him home jack said to me Man it seems like he was about to topple over shouldn't you carry him I asked Elizabeth said

I would gladly but it would shame him to be carried through his village jack said

I looked at the proud man his face was twisted with pain and he still was determined walk through to be carried I nodded my head I hope he makes it Elizabeth said

firmly I'll see you to that jack said

When he returns he brought the Barack with him Elizabeth said

You have enough food for five hungry people jack ask me

It was nearly noon and none of us had anything to eat I'll find it without Tencent but before I went my coverts I had to reassure myself that nabirye and Francis was OK I think last year in around the door taking off soiled coats and taking snow from their boots their faces were such covered and strict with tears weather from reaping or in the actual world smoke in their eyes didn't know nor did I ask their shoulders slumped with fitting it was very long and hard and just heartless night their home was gone livelihood was gone one night they lost they are past their presence and their future I crossed to them an able to find the words to express my feelings I lucked into nabirye eyes my question was not invoiced but she answered it with just a little quick now on she reassured me she was all right then I turned to Francis and I put out my hand are you are right I asked her her answer was more than I would've expected I don't have Burns or outer injuries but she was telling me she really hurts on the inside it would heal since she had found the secret to healing it would take time I've turned back to Mr. Barack I'm sorry Mikael What is it able to give me a crooked smile Elizabeth said

Where are tough Miss Thatcher Mikael said

I smiled and went to get something to eat for all of us after we finished our meal we sat around the fireplace talking in the quiet towns Elizabeth said

What are your plans Mikael is there anything we can do jack said

Haven't sorted that out Mikael said

Don't worry I can make all the bed Mikael and I need nabirye said

I have looked puzzled Elizabeth said

Sprucebow and feras explained I know how to make them better than even the richest people would envy nabirye said

I am mired nabirye attempt to lighten the situation and bring A little humor Elizabeth said

It's not really a fan I am worried about. You know what it's like this time of year. It's been a very Long and hard winter most of the families are nearly out of supplies they were depending on the store to get them through The rest of winter and tell Spring right new growth and new food angina I will wager more than Half of their town has 5 cups of flour or less and in their cabins how are they going to make bread without flour salt Tea... Mikael said

Well I all band together to look after them there are Hardly people they will make it jack said

(There was silence for a few minutes)

What about each of your supplies Mikael said

Between the two of us not enough for the whole village that's for sure will have to ration there in the supplies to get through to the spring jack said

As Mikael nodded Right That's a good idea don't be giving out rations little you have that I want it doesn't any good someone Hass to stay healthy and on his feet, it seems like you've been elected Serge Mikael said

Full impact of the situation began to hit me, oh God I have prayed silently don't let it comes to place that I have to turn away people that are hungry from my door, was Mikael that it would become so desperate that we would have to rush for us our own to have the strength to get from one day to another and question to myself silently Elizabeth said

I think the first thing needs to be done is a little survey jack said

We go Family by family in the village and see what the situation is Mikael said

I'll get you a little book if you're up for coming with me and you can record as we go along jack said

Mikael I was nominated and released to his feet reaching for his heaviest such covered coats and beaver hat I'm prepared to follow jack as Jack turned to me I would like you to do the same between our two cabins as you find time it is in Porten you know exactly what we're dealing with I nodded it seems so serious after the man left I turned to nabirye and Francis why don't you try to get some sleep. Both like exhausted Elizabeth said

I'll help you with your inventory offered nabirye said

No it won't take me that long there really isn't that much to count you get some rest nabirye was hesitant but I was insistent finally she was persuaded she and Francis went in the bedroom remove their outer surrounds close and more faster sleep I did up the dishes and straightened up a bit notebook and pencil in here and I did as jack had said yeah I counted everything each cup of flour tea sorted and counted every tend canned food I measured the salt and the sugar and coffee and beans and rice every bit of my suppliers than my storm room then I went to Jack's cabin and did the same and his store room as well at first it seemed to me that seemed quite a lot but then I me and I think about how many days it was until my supplies could be replaced I realized it wasn't very much Mikael was right we were going to be awfully short on food supplies before this winter was over with a sinking hearts I returned the kitchen it would take very careful planning to make it stretch now later afternoon jack and mar Barack had been gone for several hours I looked out the window nervously wanting them to return nabirye came out of the bedroom looking rested Elizabeth said

Elizabeth May I borrow your snowshoes nabirye said

Of course are you sure you're ready Elizabeth said

I'm sure I'm ready with a soft smile Will even welcome the exercise and just being in nature nabirye said

They are just right outside the door Jack and Mikael returned it before nabirye they did not have good news the tabulation I Food in the village was listed on two short pages The Indians had come to rely more and more on the trading post and they didn't store mini foods except for the Roots and herbs and the berries they dried by now these weren't on short supply future looked even more bleak than it had before The survey oh Lord please send an early spring when it was dark when nabirye still hadn't returned I was coming concerned I didn't like not to mention my fears for I knew Jack and Mikael had a lot on their mind selflessly I watched out the window I wish I had suggested that she take Kipp with her Mikael stop what he was saying mimed sentence turned to me Elizabeth said

If you're worried about nabirye don't be she is home in those words as she is in her kitchen whether it's light or dark nabirye is not in danger Mikael said

I am Blushed slightly I do wish you would come Francis came from the bedroom also looking much better after her nap Elizabeth said

I have newly slept the day away. I'm sorry I meant to be up sooner to help you I just didn't wake up you should've called me Francis said

I don't need any help I reassured her besides you needed to sleep we prepared the meal Francis set out the plates and cluttery on the table because our table was small and we only had two chairs we went to fill our plates and sit around the room we were almost ready to eat when we heard nabirye I Side sound of relief when we open the door to her she was almost hidden under spruce branches how she ever managed to load her self down what is beyond me she smiled out from underneath them and Mr. Barack helped her later aside her bundles we ate together then she disappeared again when she returned again she had manage to get some fryers from somewhere with a Thesis at hand she began to make a bed here in the end that occasionally was used as an office jack let our group in prayer and we all retired early it had been a long exhausting day we would have to take our future one day at a time. Elizabeth said

During the next few days Jack and Bill I am meeting of all of the folks of the town and surrounding camps for yet the town was growing. They Gathered in front of the rubble that so recently been the source of The life blood of the town anxious Eyes surveillance the debris had been raked following the fight did not I brought not a whole lot fourth a town From it jack student before them and spoke in their native language I standing next to Elizabeth whispering the translation " we meeting together for we are one we must care for one another we have lost the trading post and The food it's supplied now we must find our own way it is not a new way it has been done by for many moons by our founding fathers but it is a hard way it will all take us working together you have some flour and salt for breakfast you should watch Your supply closely and use only a little every day it can last for many days if you use it sparingly we have the forest and streams they will not for sake us they have meat for the taking we will hunt together and share what we find we have plants that can be gathered from under the snow if you know them well we will send out groups to gather them those who stay behind well care for the fires we have traps and snares if we run out of ammunition for our guns so we will not starve we have Madison if we become sick do not be afraid and most importantly we have a God that sings us know in need he has promised to take care of his children we will live and we will make it in the time of the spring." nabirye said

I felt like we should have a plan in such a speech But when Jack was done speaking the people of the town filed away silently but yet their shoulders were a lifted a little and the look of despair had been replaced with silent acceptance even a glimmer of hope now I hardly saw Jack or Bill they organized hunting parties they sent out fishing parties to cut holes in ice hey Cindy older women bundled up against the cold to dig for roots around the trees well younger women were signed their neighbors fires up on their own children took on new responsibilities as baby tenders and Firewood gatherers my entire town was to be called upon to work together even the older ones who were unable to be active had parts staring the pot and kept the house fires going well others were busy with their tasks The empty cabins were some fasting fixed up for the family who lost their home next-door to the store in the fire and life in the town. Some of the outside trappers Who had seen the red glow in the sky on the night of the fire came home to check on families they standard width of their heads lowered what the disaster was and what it meant to the population in the town I also thought they were praying in their own way for an early spring. It was about four days later after the fire when Nabirye and I were alone I knew she must've been sorrowfulness of losing her lovely home The beautiful handwork of her past she amid it you made our heart sore but she was able to smile in spite of it all Elizabeth said

In spite of it all, I still have eaten if I had lost him then all would have been lost nabirye said

I thought of my own life and yet that is how I felt of yet Jack even though I hadn't realized it to this point and yet I understood what nabirye meant Elizabeth said

I have been doing a lot of thinking, maybe this is the way God is punishing me for my son nabirye said slowly

I wanted to protest but I wasn't sure what to say Elizabeth said

Then I thought no I think not you see I was a sinner long before I brought a knife to crazy Mary I understand something that I didn't before I did not become sinful because I took the knife to her but rather I consented to take that knife because I was a sinner do you won't understand me Elizabeth nabirye said

I nodded slowly I did understanding and I agreed Elizabeth said

I've been a sinner for a long time I just didn't know about it oh I knew I had unhappiness a pain in my heart that twisted at times and brought me grief and shame but I didn't know why or what it was I'm pain is gone now even after in the fire I have peace there if God had been punishing me than I when it feel him with me as I do now as I watched the fire burn everything that ever had ever been mine he was not punishing me but perhaps but he is putting me to through the testing ritual To see if I am strong nabirye said

I nodded again it seems nabirye had it all sorted out tears filled my eyes she was strong our nabirye Elizabeth said

Mikael and I talk to long last night, we're going to go away nabirye said

My mouth hit the floor and to protest and I reached an arm for her hand Elizabeth said

We will be back As soon as the crows are back well to rebuild the trading post as soon as wood can be hauled from the forest and will bring supplies back to the town and the people nabirye said

Relieved they would be back I still didn't understand why nation go Elizabeth said

Mikael has too much to do to make plans for the new building she began explaining hast to make arrangements for their supplies to be shipped upriver when it's free of ice we will be very busy the time will go quickly Mikael is even going to show me the big cities I've read about nabirye said

Nabirye face took on a glow for a moment I wish I could go with her but then I quickly thought of the town and the school a pond jack and any desire to lead with the town left me Elizabeth said

Besides matter-of-factly the supplies are low even the supplies in your home if we go soon that will mean less people to feed and more life for the town nabirye said

What about Francis Elizabeth said

Mikael is going to ask her what she wishes we're sure she'll want to go with us nabirye said

There was just one question to ask when will you go Elizabeth said

Tomorrow is the sun is in the sky nabirye said

Francis did decide to choose to go with them they had very little to take Mikael still had his good team I was letting dogs and his sled they have no clothing to pack and no provisions except what they were given Jack made sure they had a good rifle and some shells. villagers came Charlene forward as they began their travels giving Gifts food or clothing or traps I knew the people desperately needed the things they were giving away yet so did the Barack and gifts were not refused because it would have caused a fence for the givers they were given in love and they were excepted in love. Atlantis this letter was loaded the dogs were harnessed and the travelers were ready for the trails at the last minute nabirye Drew me a sign I was sure I wouldn't be able to talk to her without weeping. Elizabeth said

I have a wonderful secret and I wanted to share it with you before we left I am going to have a baby just think after 10 years of marriage I am I'm going to have a baby nabirye said

Oh nabirye is all I could say insecure in my arms and you cried all over her fryers parka I was the only one in tears for the Indian people express themselves in other ways I knew in their hearts were heavy to it was hard to see in our friends go it was hard to turn them over to the elements and winter I print they would arrive safely if anyone knew how to the rigors of the trail it was the Barack nabirye had come from the forest and Mikael himself had spent several years traplines me for coming manager of the store they wouldn't know what to do in all circumstances would be hard it would be hard for Francis she had not trained herself for this I prayed God would help her and nabirye The little Excited mother to be I pray with all my might that things would go well for her and that God would protect their unborn child I Stuart and watch them go disappear over in the White mountains of the town a Final wave to us our last glimpse of them and then I placed a hand on Kipp furry head and started back to the cabin The tears blurring my vision Elizabeth said

Even though we hadn't heard from them the Barack as soon as the river thighs or as soon as the logs can be brought Forest was not too definite of a time for their return. Jack said

I wouldn't watch for in the first bluebird back at home I would watch that first song of the Robin I waiting expectantly Of the first sight of the spring crocus I relish the day when I saw my first dainty violet but now I was watching and waiting for the return of nabirye with the arrival of the Barack I wouldn't really know it was spring with the coming with both her nabirye and Mikael New life wouldn't be would be given to the dreary winter town there was a new feeling in the town A feeling of being released of Being confined was it really spring or would we have one more winter storm yet this season I hardly dared to hope then came One day in all early April A man came riding excitedly in the town his horse breathing heavily he cried out in broken English they come many wagons of supplies everyone came from every different direction and their cabins where he Binge to talk in their native language And I was about to explodeWith my question I ran around the people until I found Anna next jack they apparently had been talking with my exciting man came into town is it them I asked him Elizabeth said

It certainly is them even Abigail is with them after visiting her folks she must've met them on the trail along with some newcomers with plenty wagons of supplies jack said

How far away are they Elizabeth said

About 5 miles jack said

5 miles seems still very far I could hardly wait it would seem like forever I'll go get them some supper as I was About two bolts off Jack caught my arm Elizabeth said

Holds it they're laughing they won't be here for an hour or so jack said

What's all that ruckus about I was trying to nap jack bill said

It's the supplies along with the Barack Both Anna and Elizabeth said

Is that true Jack bill said

I was wondering if you would want to accompany me in going out to meet them jack said

Yes I am cried Elizabeth said

Grab a light sweater it might be getting cold by the time we return jack said

I ran for the sweater my dress warping around me about my legs I lifted them up so I could run faster they finally were here well almost here they were coming I hurried back to her yet Anna and jack let's go already out of breath Elizabeth said

I took Elizabeth's arm and slowed her down if we have a few miles to walk you better slow down you'll never make it at Pace jack said

He was right I slow down the people of the town began fell into place step behind us including Anna and her youngsters and mothers caring baby father wasting younger ones up on their shoulders even the old need an assistance with a walking stick Tonnelet at a slower pace The whole entire town was going to meet The traitor and his Indian wife we walked along as swift as both a bill and Jack allowed I Breathe deeply The fresh Tangi air it was still cool but it's not like growing things I thought. Or was it my imagination do you really think spring is here I asked jack Elizabeth said

I think so jack said

What signs do you go by I persisted Elizabeth said

The river is almost ice-free, the snow is almost gone, it's warmer, and I've seen groups of birds and Canada geese flying north do you need more jack said

I swatted at my chink mosquitoes are back Elizabeth said ruthlessly

There you have one more Insurance that spring is here all right jack said

We laugh together Kipp frolicked on Head of us sniffing at rabbit holes and barking at sassy squirrels I laughed at him I think he's excited to I to jack Elizabeth said

This winter has been hard for you have It Elizabeth jack said

It's been hard for everybody Elizabeth said honestly

You and I are used to the hardships the rest of them aren't quite used to it has it been too much jack said

I will admit it will be glad for a fresh carrot and I will amend I will be glad for a fresh piece of cake it will be nice I will even admit spinach which I do not like my taste good but I am not sorry I met you here. Jack stop me push back my hair and kissed me he looked deeply in my eyes Elizabeth said

Glad to hear you say that Elizabeth I have something to say to maybe I should've had said years ago but I want to say with all of my heart now and all my love I'm proud of you Elizabeth proud Of your Strength your support you being able to adjust to hard things even by accident you've been my hope my support my right arm Elizabeth I don't even know what I would've done if I had to live the rest of my life after leaving you in school without you you've proved me more than wrong over and over you belong here by my side one more kissed me again jack said

I brushed away happy tears and I lifted my face to his but then I heard so noise of the grinding wheels they were coming just over the hill what is old friends and new friends and needed supplies and hope my heart gave a lurch in its happiness I gave one more test with all love wrapped up in it and I turned to meet the oncoming Wagons Spring finally had come The closer we came to the rumbling wagons The more my heart pounded frustrated with the weight I just wish hoist my long tumbling skirt and break into our run I held my own patients and check I wasn't sure how jack feel about my impulsiveness and I was quite sure that there would be quite puzzled expression's on the faces of our Indian neighbors they were so near and yet so far away tryst dipping down over the last hills before in the town I wanted to welcome her back and spend some time talking per hours for hours hear all about the outside world that was coming in near us and every little thing had happened to her had been away. Elizabeth said

I reached for Elizabeth's hand I am gay but I love the link the screen won't be long now trying to calm Elizabeth trembling hands and a heart jack said

I took Deep breath gave him a quite smile and then tempted to slow my stripes just a bit but it was hard my legs act with the effort I was so eager to you see nabirye just when I thought I was it burst with interpretation I saw someone climb down from the distant wagon and then there was nabirye towards me without another thought I grabbed up my skirts and broke into a head long run to meet her at first neither of us could talk we just Helms one another tears mingling on our faces nabirye she held the secrets outside world even though it was coming closer the worlds of my family that I loved and missed so much by the time we had finished in bracing each other what is great commotion all around us jack meaning Mikael bill was meaning a couple of constables who Alex scored in the wagons A crowd of people from the town had gathered around the wagon drivers were trying to hold the tired teams study in spite of all the confusion everyone he always seem to be talking at once nabirye and I no it would be useless to trying to talk now backed up and looked at one another where his face and smile and our delight our eye is promising inch on there a long talk together as soon as I could be arranged but I tried one question Francis Elizabeth said

She stayed nabirye said

I knew now what is not time more details then the whole party turns in the town and Erie silence fell as we walked the trail over the hills through the bush and home nabirye eyes darted and forth over the scenery she had not seen for so long I could just sense she was straining forward eager for another that first look at at the familiar cabins in the clearing I knew her thoughts we're skipping on ahead of her my attention was drawn to where she been in the recent past I couldn't wait any longer did you meet my family in Hamilton I asked with all of my heart it would be able to say yes Elizabeth said

intern with all lights in her eyes they are wonderful she exclaimed your sister Beth is so sweet the children I love the children nabirye said

I swallowed a big old lump that had welling up in my throat I missed all my siblings I didn't realize how much until I heard nabirye talk about them how are they I struggled with the words Elizabeth said

Fine she band but they miss you send their love I also sent you letters put them right on top in the top crate so you can have them when we get to town I knew you wouldn't be anxious for them Nabirye said

I reached over and gave her a warm hug The horses sensed food and rest I had we had to pick up our feet for they had also picking up their homes just to keep up. Jack Who had been walking next to Mikael to snatch up some news for you yet our town was growing and yet it seemed like hundreds of people we're moving our direction as the country what is expanding and growing not just our town was growing joined me taking my hand to study in my footsteps Elizabeth said

You OK jack said

After a few silent moments, I smile to let him know I want I'm sure I trace of tears still shown on my face. Elizabeth said

Any news from home. Jack said

Nabirye says they're all fine and they sent letters my grip on jack hand tightened I can hardly wait to read them the sun was low on the horizon making it increasingly hard to see the trail. The Indians in their immediate knowledge of nature and territory walking quickly and surely there are steps number to falter I stumble now and then I was glad for Jack's hand. Kipp stopped his frisking around came back to follow closely at my size. Elizabeth said

The Barack spend the night mini nights perhaps until they get themselves so I don't in the old Sanderson cabin jack said

That is a mass I exclaimed horrified that he would even suggest that cabin Elizabeth said

It can be cleaned up and quite livable with a little effort Mikael heads already asked if it is available I paused for a moment and went on like most women nabirye might preferred to be on her own jack said

I knew he was right at least about nabirye being on her own she was quite independent but it would be nice to keep with me with the rebuilding up in the store I'll help her clean the cabin I finally said out loud if that's what she wants Elizabeth said

Good jack said

After a few minutes, I broke the silence once again by asking how long do you think it will take to rebuild the store Elizabeth said

It depends on the weather how many men from the town help how things go but Mikael says framed up and ready to shelter The supplies and such in about a month or so they will finish the living quarters as time allows jack said

Polar nabirye she would be without a proper house for us months and with the new baby coming it wouldn't be easy in the semi darkness I stole another look at nabirye she looked fine she was shopping now and I couldn't help wonder when the baby due in my excitement of nabirye good news when she had shared her secret I hadn't even asked The time that I expected birth yes she could be due before too many weeks past but she walked with the same straight shoulders that same confidence as before the fire and the confidence of the rest of her people I am mired her for that by now it was quite dark we were still welcoming people on their way to welcome them from the travelers mothers with little ones and tell old people who couldn't walk there fastest children who just strangled for the fun of it finally in the sight of that but small town we can see in the dark shapes and such of the buildings through in the night hearing the familiar sounds of barking dogs as they struggle is against their unwelcome tenders I wondered if Kipp Felt a little smug about the fact he was with the group traveling free The smoke of the wood fire Ingle is in the air even though by now most of every fire in the town would've gone out for lack of attention less sad to hear a rumble where once the trading post stupid showed faintly through in the night I wish we had taken time to clean it away so that might not bring returning pain to in the Barack I moved closer to nabirye hoping my presence in night it's nice some comfort it must have been some comfort for she's Bing softly to talk to me over in the creek and grind of the wagons Elizabeth said

It seems like a long bad dream nabirye said

Giving her armor quick screams I did not answer or I did not know what to say we moved silently A manga of buildings at we're so familiar to both of us as the wagons scrambling to a stop the tire drivers lowered their aching bodies to the hard-packed earth of the Main Street speaking to and then teams as they moved forward then them until Mikael would given the next orders nabirye waiting to join her husband I spoke to her as I walked by "I will light the fire and get supper ready as soon as you're free come to the house you can wash and rest for a bit before we have our supper" Elizabeth said

Thank you nabirye said

My heart was late as I hurried back to my house to make supper preparations nabirye was back and she looked fine and much-needed supplies for the village we're on the loading wagons soon then trading post would be belt again and after in the evening supper was over dishes washed cared for there wouldn't be talk on monks friends. As I rushed to start the fire my mind busy with what I could fix for our supper I had known the Barack had been on the trail for several days and would enjoy a full meal rather than a hastily prepared snack The occasion Meredith
What is it a celebration Feast and yet my pantry was almost empty Because of the scarceness of supplies the wagons that should in town were low down with much needed supplies for our future needs so it wasn't caution that made it in possible for me to fix our guest even really fine meal even though it was hard to break my habit serving the past several weeks it was simply in the fact there was very little on my shelves to prepare I left my fire the flames now devouring wood I began to Ramen through in the covenant shelves it seems that each container eagerly pulled forward and open what is empty I wondered how many more weeks or days we could've survived on what little we had left there was always meet the man of the town with Bill in charge have kept us well supplied with fresh meat but with the warmer weather it had to be brought to the town daily and why didn't buy the families for it would not keep fresh for long I surround The piece that have been brought to me for our supper it seems plenty for me and Jack but now with two other Feed it looked awfully small it was beaver not my favorite dish but it was tasty enough I tried to think of a quick way to cook it then stretch it a bit I had a few vegetables left but I could make a stew of sorts I hasten to get it in the pot and on the stove to cook I had nothing that would make a dessert of any kind thankfully we had plenty of wood and the roaring flames soon had the stew simmering in the pot I wish I had some fresh bread but we had been rationing our window wing flower supply so inside I made some simple biscuits nearly using up the last of the flower in the tent to do so I had no shortening on hand except for Rollo bear towel I did not enjoy the taste of it but the biscuits would be hard earned than rocks without it if only I had something special to celebrate Green occasion with The safe return of our friends The coming of the food supplies but I had nothing then I remembered The one jar blueberry preserves I had been hoarding on the very very top shelf for some special event this is a special event I enthusiastically went for the blueberries once I have my meal on to cook with the biscuits in the oven and the table set nothing for me to do I fed you and I'm out walking the floor from the stove to the door to the table the door to the window I couldn't see anything except shadowy movements in the light of the Open doors and dust you dirty sediment windows of the town I knew in the wagons were being move to be unloaded I knew all the crates and boxes would not be unloaded there was no place to store the contents but a few of the supplies would be organized quickly as possible so in the town people would have access to them tomorrow be a busy day indeed I turned from the window to put more wood in the fire to make sure in the pot won't continue to boil Justin the dishes and the table where for the fifth or sixth time Felt like I was missing out on the activities in town Kipp must've felt the same way sentencing there was excitement beyond our door for he crossed over into it And He started whining for me to let him out I had no sympathy for him if I can't go neither could he I said firmly at him I am missing it all to Kipp must've known from my voice would not let him out for a wind once more crossed back over to his favorite place in front of the fireplace and lowered himself to the floor looking at me with wide puppy pleading eyes Irish turn the stew and pulled the cattle for hot water I had no more coffee or tea how do use the last of the tea for our Sunday dinner and we haven't been out of coffee for nearly a week or more we simply won't drink the hot water it really wasn't so bad At last I heard footsteps just outside The door and ran to open it nabirye entered The room with our her arms full of parcels chattering as she came in Elizabeth said

I knew you would be anxious for your letters and Beth said must get these parcels right away the men are bringing the rest nabirye said

I felt like Christmas had come with the spring dear bath I could hardly wait to see what she sent I reached for the parcels at and prepared to tear off wrappings immediately and then checked myself this was not just for me free yet they were labeled and had both Jack and my names on them so instead of ripping all whale like a child. I just squeezed the first one a bit laid it on a nearby chair and took the rest and in the same from nabirye and Deposit them with the rest with the first one. Elizabeth said

Jack said to go ahead and open them nabirye said

Are you sure it wasn't that I doubted her words is that I was just so eager that I was afraid to trust what I heard she laughed there have been so much laughing the past weeks were. I hadn't realized how little until I listened to nabirye now tears missed in my eyes too much joy was happening too quickly I brushed my eyes with my apron and reached for the first parcels it actually just had my name on it was filled with new yard gardens toiletry articles and some pretty lacy under things I run my hands over them each item feeling it's newness during the fresh scent of and unworn and unwashed The next bundle was done by the children contained a sweet treats there was many things the children loved there but I will admit they looked awfully good to me as well I couldn't remember in the last time that I had eaten something just for the fun of it of savoring the taste each little gift. Was wrapped and identified as I read each name my eyes filled with tears again there was even a lumpy one from baby Tail was and I knew she had had help I'm sure she had grown in the past year she was still a baby of two The third parcels was from Beth again it too was filled with treats but of a different sort of spices dried fruit and nuts and teas vanilla A can of fresh coffee now on the tears were really falling I haven't tasted some of these things since the fall how good they would taste I couldn't express my feelings My delight meant not even to nabirye but I'm sure she understood at last I picked up the package of letters I would wait to read them later I fingered them turning them over in my hand as I read the names on the envelopes there was Beth writing hand The firm script of my brother Charles childish printing from the children even one in the careless but expressive dash of my sister Julie I found it hard but I laid the letters down getting a hold of my emotions and turning into near me what would you like to drink with your supper fresh coffee or exotic tea Elizabeth said

Well I have a feeling since I think I've had fresh coffee and exotic tea since you have why don't you choose nabirye said

I will and took my time debating over and them Like a child in a candy store I was just about to pick a lemon tea when I remembered the men folk I wish sure of given a choice they would pick coffee so I laid in the Tea aside and went to open my coffee can I will never forget that first burst A fragrance and hung in the air of promise I save it and looking at nabirye just to be sure I wasn't dreaming we need to talk Elizabeth said "breathing in the air delicious smell of the coffee as I measured it carefully into the pot" We well for as long as you want nabirye said

Just then there was a scuffle of feet at the step to the door Jack and Mikael entered both of them carrying crates in Elizabeth said

The families send rations for the starving westerners ring quipped Jack said

But is toned gave away his heart Felt appreciation for their concern they placed the crate against the wall I finally came to my senses enough to offer warm water to Mikael so he could wash for supper Elizabeth said

Sure smells good "bummed out" as he sniffed the air I get tired very fast of fire-camp cook Mikael said

It's not much I am mended my cheeks flashing a little bit I hadn't realized how low our supplies were till I went to get our supper tonight I don't know how much far in there we could've stretched a little bit of food we had left Elizabeth said

Elizabeth has done a wonderful job of making do. General Pride in his voice she's always found something to go with the meat jack said

I flushed even more active Jack's appraise in fact we both knew at times very precious little to go with the meet we gathered around our small table as Jack let us in prayer his voice broke a little for his gratitude for our heavenly father to get in the wagons for getting them to this town in time to prevent real hardship I was reminded of the heavy responsibility that Jack and I had split over in the past few months with the welfare of so many people on our shoulders we didn't do you do enjoy our simple meal together even the beaver meat tasted better among the talk and laughter of friends. Elizabeth said

Rello bear towel isn't I really missed it it taste so good nabirye said

I laughed I guess once preference to do withone's background When supper was over in the man said there was a few morethings in this town to do they left the lantern and left leaving us to clearthe table without even discussing it we hurried there in the dishing we wereboth anxious to talk to one another at last we settled ourselves I have not yetread the letters but I still wanted to wait and read them in private for now Iwouldn't and relish all that nabirye could tell me The rest of the world insome ways it seems forever and yet chest yesterday and I had made the trip byairplane and by the stagecoach over in the same trail nabirye had just comeover. The letter that all of our families were doing well we were glad to hearCharles Business was growing as well as his children we also learned that afterreturning home Julie and she misses Charles and yet Toronto so much she'spersuaded mother and father to let her go live with him and his family Who isnow busy giving piano lessons and voice lessons to Calgary students when itcame time to retire for the night that nabirye share my bed instead of sleepingon the cot and that Mikael could use the cot he did not recall rightto sleep but talked into late into the night there was so much to tell oneanother questions on my mind I wanted to hear all about what nabirye here hadseen and heard on her trip I want to know all about my family members cities Ihad left behind the happenings in the world and the fashions ladies werewearing everything that I had been missing she was more than glad to fill me inbut something's she shared with me where in digging the new fullydifferent then with a different perspective I laughed listening to her fashionhumble opinion upon fashions to her current wearing apparel was very becomecumbersome and impractical and for all that matter not really attractive Ithere certainly not attractive enough to be fussing over I had learned to lovemy family even though she did not pretend to know note the white woman's WazeThe children in their own Open candid Ways brought light to her she especiallywas taken with Tail Elizabeth partly fresh impaired my name partly because shewas delighted child but mostly because amid it nabirye a baby she was lookingahead to the delightful experience of her little one I looked at her We finallyagreed we must get some sleep tomorrow would be a busy day with both of ustrying to get The old small Sanderson cabin cleaning up and getting ready foroccupancy reluctantly we said good night and let slip claim us The next day wasa dripping and what had issued in a storm which hand it Preferred D light-meanteverything miserable for those who had so much to do in the town The trails weremuddy and slippery and it was difficult just to walk about let alone Carriegood's or accomplish anything out side we went to clean up the cabin within acouple of days they moved in. Elizabeth said