Second Chances for Nathan Chapter 10, Part 4, Page 61
Karen was a little worried when she told Allie about something that she heard her mom and dad talking about. "I think something might be happening soon," Karen quietly whispered. "Mom and dad were talking about dad getting a new job. I couldn't hear why, but I could tell they were trying to think of what to do."
"Wow, that's a big deal Karen. I hope everything is going to be all right." Allie replied. "I wonder what happened?"
"I don't know, but mom told me this morning that dad would be going away for a few days. Probably to look for a new job." Karen thought aloud.
"Girls, please come down to the kitchen. Dee arrived and we are going to bake some more sweets to sell." Emily said.
"And, some to eat!" the girls shouted as they came bounding down the stairs. "Hello Dee," the girls both said as they greeted her. "What are we baking Oma?"
"Buttery spice cookies and raisin bread." Oma announced.
The baking and music lessons were becoming routine. Allie not only was learning how to cook and play guitar but she was developing strong friendships and creating memories that she would always keep in her heart. Not having her mother any longer, and growing up, she needed females in her life. Her grandmother was a strong influence on her. Whenever she had questions, she knew Oma would talk with her no matter what. Allie thought about how much she was going to miss her Oma.
"Oma, this is the best part of my visit here, being with you, Karen and Dee!" she smiled and gave her grandmother a big hug.
"Looks like we have many plans underway for the end-of-summer festival. At the planning committee last night the teams were selected for the baseball games with practice starting after dinner tonight. Walter is a coach for one of the teams and he's happy to be part of the community again," Dee started, "Dr. Herrmann, the vet, is in charge of the animal contests and people have signed up for their showings of cows, pigs, horses, sheep, even cats and dogs, so you better let him know Allie that you want to register Barrett."
"I will for sure!" Allie declared.
"Jack is in charge of the biggest carrot, lettuce, squash, and tomato vegetable contest, which fits him perfectly" added Emily.
"All the ladies are planning on the picnic and pie contest." Dee added.
"Don't forget the most important of all," Emily winked. "Dee is in charge of the music naturally!"
"Oh boy, this is going to be so much fun!" Allie and Karen laughed.
"Pray for good weather," Emily reminded. "This is all because of God's bountiful blessings!"
Molly was walking to the Infirmary when Bill crossed the street to greet her.
"Good morning Molly!" he called to her.
"Why Judge Avery, you sound chip this morning." Molly smiled.
"I am indeed, I was hoping I could possibly tempt you to a tasty lunch today over at Billees later." Bill boldly asked.
Flattered and flustered Molly asked, "What is the occasion?"
"It's Henry's birthday and I want to surprise him. I'm inviting a few good friends over to celebrate!"
Molly was disappointed it wasn't a luncheon date, but nevertheless accepted the invitation with a big smile. "Great, see you at noon!" Bill nodded, and then as he was off to ask Faith and Carson, looked back at Molly and said, "Please be my guest and sit with me, I'd be delighted," and off he went with a wink, while Molly blushed.
When Bill made it over to the Mercantile, Ned was up to his neck with boxes stacked on the counter. Peering around them Ned asked, "What can I help you with Bill?"
"What in heaven's name is in this delivery?" Bill inquired.
"Food. Whatever isn't grown locally, I've had to order, for your place Bill! Sam has ordered flour, salt, sugar, yeast, spices..."
"All right, all right, glad to see it's all arriving, but that can't all be food!"
"No, there's bandaging, medical supplies, and other things. As you can see, I'm sorry, but I'm busy with my inventory. Is there something you need from me in particular?" Ned was trying to get back to work.
"I just want to invite you and Flo to lunch at Billee's today. Lee and I are hosting a surprise birthday party for Henry. If you can come at noon, hope to see you."
By the time Bill got back to Billees, Sam already had the cake in the oven. Of course, Bill was making his favorite dish, his chili and Sam was also baking a few loaves of bread. The soldiers were treated to good food, superior than the slop they were served in their service. The care at Billees was much better and individually targeted than the hospitals that were overcrowded now, so the men were almost ready to get back to their homes. Lee and Henry both had jobs ready for any able-bodied men willing to go to work.
"You know Bill," Sam suggested, "we sure could use a bakery in town."
"I know over at the cafe, Minnie was saying too that it was quite hard to bake and cook both for her customers. I'm hoping we can find someone to help with this."
Just after noon, Henry walked over with Archie to Billee's for lunch and was greeted by a big "Surprise!" as Rosemary led everyone in singing "Happy Birthday!" Even the soldiers and the children were there with their parents. Henry was overwhelmed by the outpouring of well wishes and Archie noticed and took it to heart. There is a lot to be thankful for. You see Second Chances aren't just for Nathan, but for many in Hope Valley!