Let Me Call You Sweetheart Chapter 1, Page 3

Thursday after school Rosemary picked up Dee and they headed off to Brookfield. On the way there they talked, or at least Rosemary did, all about the events coming up in Hope Valley with the engagement party, St. Nicholas Day, baby shower for Clara, the Town Christmas giving Tree lighting with caroling, and of course the Christmas pageant and choir. Then she went on to say that there would be a bridal shower for Dee and the wedding. No stone was left unturned, not if Rosemary could help it!

Dee laughed at how Rosemary described her plans for all the events. "Rosemary you should be paid for being an event planner with all the work and loving care you put into everything for all to enjoy!"

"That would take the fun out of it!" Rosemary countered. "I like to keep busy, so I don't mind. I was helping Lee out at the office, but got shooed away to my own desk when I started the Valley Voice weekly newspaper. I even pay Robert to come and help me. He's been a big help running off the newspaper and distributing it when he helps Ned with the mail."

"That's good for Robert. He seems like a responsible young man." Dee commented. He's been over for dinner with Allie at the Grants when I've been there, and he has received Emily's approval." she laughed.

"Aw, they are cute together." Rosemary nodded.

"I just have to temper Nathan as he's very protective of her. I was happy he approved of allowing Robert to sit with us at the Thanksgiving dinner. I'm sure he knows what was going on in his mind at that age and worries. He tells me that it was different because it was me he had his eye on and never showed it." Dee grinned.

They arrived at Dorothy's house before sunset. After introductions, Dorothy was excited to see Dee's engagement ring! "Oh Dee, this is gorgeous! What an honor to have a heirloom passed down to you too!" George and the children all gathered around and were very also impressed. "Let's go sit down and eat some dinner.

"So Dee, when's the wedding?" Dorothy asked.

"If we get Pastor Joseph to agree, it will be on Valentine's Day. I wanted to celebrate our wedding when it's easier for Dad and Walter. You know how busy they get come spring with the new baby calves arriving." Dee said. "I'm praying for good weather with no storms."

"Dorothy," Dee grabbed Dorothy's hand and looked at her, "You have always been there for me and I need you now. It would make me so happy if you would be my maid of honor."

"Of course, it would be my honor sweetie!" as the sisters hugged.

"Wonderful," Rosemary clapped her hands, "Now, Dorothy we need to get you and the family down to Hope Valley for the engagement party. It won't be complete without you. It's in two weeks, you'll all come won't you?"

"Let me talk to George and if we can, we'll absolutely be there." Dorothy glanced at George. George was with the children, but he heard the ladies and nodded yes.

Robert and Roberta were still up for a little longer, so Rosemary was right at home with them. She told them stories with dramatic actions to highlight the funny and somewhat scary parts. The children were mesmerized and complained when it was time to go to bed.

Afterwards, the ladies talked over cups of hot chocolate. Dorothy wanted to know more about Hope Valley, and Rosemary had plenty to tell her. Dee brought up the plans for the next day at school and how the Superintendent wouldn't pay Lillian for helping teach the piano, but she would help regardless. Now, she had Rosemary who offered and this was encouraging because she could help bring some of the children to New Hope Orphanage, then Dee could stay with the rest of the children. "Speaking of which, we need to go to bed and get a good night's rest." Dee yawned.

The school day went better with Rosemary helping. Dee was able to teach more about reading music and practicing notes. It was fun singing "Do, Re, Me" and little jingles to help them remember their lessons. Dee stayed with those who wanted to learn to sing learning ways to breathe while singing and vocal exercises. The children who wanted to learn the piano went with Rosemary to the Orphanage. Some of the children were actually orphans and Rosemary really watched them carefully how they responded to Lillian. Rosemary was especially attracted to a little boy, Paul, who seemed rather shy and was watching from the sofa. Rosemary walked over to him and sat down.

"Hi Paul!" Rosemary smiled. "Do you like music?" Paul just shrugged his shoulders. "Do you like to sing?"

"I don't know how." Paul looked away.

Rosemary wasn't giving up. "Paul, can you clap with me please?" With that, Rosemary clapped and Paul clapped. "Now, that's good, let's try adding a few more claps." Every time she clapped, Paul clapped. Pretty soon, Rosemary clapped faster, then she added clapping on her lap. Paul started smiling trying to keep up with her. The faster she went, Paul kept right up and was laughing when they stopped.

"Now, Paul do you like music?" she asked again with a big grin on her face.

"Yes!" Paul nodded and then ran up to the piano to join Lillian and the other children. Rosemary beamed at Paul as she watched his eyes light up.

"Dee this has been such a rewarding experience today! Thank you for letting me help, I want to come back." Rosemary told her as they walked back to Dorothy's home. "I can't wait to tell Lee all about this day."

"I'm so happy you enjoyed yourself." Dee said. "Rosemary, let's surprise our men and go home now, we can make it before nighttime."

"Yes! I'd like that so I can tell Lee all about our time here." Rosemary agreed.

"Great, then we can both get a good night's sleep." Dee smiled.