Epilogue One
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Discussions with photographer Lydia Burns were fruitful. She appreciated Nathan's poetry and he found inspiration in her delightful seaside photographs. They agreed to collaborate and during the remaining weeks of the family's vacation on Prince Edward Island, selected the images that fit Nathan's words and vice versa. William Thatcher watched over the project, occasionally offering an outsider's view to the two creatives while managing calls and contacts as he coordinated plans for publishing. 'By The Sea. A Collection of Photographs by L. Burns and Poetry by N. T. Grant' would be sent to an eager publisher in September.
Nathan brought a few sample photographs and poems for the family to enjoy in the final days of their visit to Dalvay-by-the-Sea.
SANDCASTLES AND DAYDREAMS
The morning's golden castle,
untrampled and untouched by the seawind,
stands to greet the incoming tide.
The blue sea flows up the channel into the moat,
pauses and retreats,
leaving a momentary stain of darker sand
soon covered as another wave follows another,
consuming the base until the walls collapse
—a century of erosion in a moment of time.
The foamy water swirls round,
caving in roofs and tumbling towers to ruins, then softens the edges
until the castle island erodes, becoming a smooth round mound
that disappears with each receding wave.
The rhythm of the tides promises an ebb
and another morning for building sandcastles and daydreams. (EMH)
CHILDHOOD ABANDON
A bright red shovel and a deep blue pail lie deserted in the sand.
Two pairs of flip-flops,* tossed on an immense green towel,
and a yellow beach-ball wait nearby.
Two children, boy and girl, towheads bent down low,
quietly search to find a perfect shell
among the treasures at the water's edge.
As the tide flows in, tickling their toes with its cold,
they abruptly jump and, skipping and yelping like puppies,
burst into peals of laughter, splashing through the shallows
and sending spray high into the air to join their squeals of delight.
It is a lifelong lesson to learn— how to relinquish childhood's toys
yet keep the innocent joys of a child's carefree abandon. (EMH)
COLLECTIONS
In my hand I hold the seashells. . .
beautiful, all.
Some sharp enough to cut, with jagged points.
Some smooth enough to stroke, coiled round to hidden centers.
Some tiny boats in which to dream and float away.
Some ribboned by the waves or layered with the years.
Some polished by the sand, these treasures in my hand.
Pure water washes away the ocean's salty tears,
unveiling true colors of pearly pink and white or purpled, navy blue.
In my heart I hold the memories. . .
Beautiful, all
these treasures in my life. (EMH)
TIMES AND PLACES
There are times and places
that our hearts love.
We can be there
—back in a childhood summer,
far across the sea—
with the fragrance of fresh mint,
the snap of a wind-whipped flag,
the flavor of fresh blueberries,
or a treasured seashell
caught
tumbling
from a shelf.
Like bookmarks,
falling from the pages of our lives
where we mark our memories,
we return to read a favorite passage
as we find our place again. (EMH)
(EMH) ORIGINAL POETRY by E. M. Hunter, Published in 'Illuminations,' Copyright 2014
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* AN: Although thong style sandals are shown on Egyptian murals in 4000 BC, they were introduced in America after World War II. The name 'flip-flops' originated in the 1960s from the sound they make when walking. Rather than change the original poem, I am using Poetic License to keep the poem as I wrote it in the 1990s in spite of it not being authentic to 1920, the year of this story. EMH
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Epilogue Two
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Caleb Nathaniel Grant arrived on an early Sunday morning in mid-October. He had a healthy set of lungs, a full head of dark, wavy hair, the signature Grant chin dimple, and everyone hoped his deep blue eyes would settle-in to stay. Although later than originally thought, Caleb's arrival sparked joy and thankfulness in the Grant family, their Hope Valley friends and family at a distance. Wasting no time, William and Anne secured a compartment on a west-bound train that afternoon. They had been packed for weeks.
Allie and Jack were smitten with their tiny brother and assisted their parents and grandparents in any way they could. They fetched diapers, blankets and tiny shirts, making sure to pause to touch Caleb in awe every time they were nearby.
Elizabeth felt well, but took frequent naps to counteract the lost sleep at night. She often sat watching her family interact with baby Caleb, silently praying and rejoicing at all God's gifts.
Eileen spent most of her time assisting with household responsibilities, watching Jack and holding Caleb so Elizabeth could have a nap. The family was blessed to only have to heat the many dinners that arrived on the Grant's front porch or were dropped off at the lumber office for Archie to bring home.
When the Thatchers arrived, baby Caleb hardly slept in the cradle Nathan had made, except for overnights. During the days, Caleb was cradled in his grandparent's arms and he and Jack were treated to book readings on a regular basis!
Bill was a frequent visitor and happily continued his role as honorary uncle to all the children, while taking a turn holding the newest addition. Having been asked to be formal guardians for each of the Grant children and eargerly expecting their own arrival, Rosemary and Lee spent hours at the Grant's home, although there was some competition as to who would hold Caleb next! Yet, if Nathan was home, there was no competition at all. If Nathan was present, Caleb was in his arms or was immediately returned to his arms after nursing.
Nathan Grant, the tall, strong Mountie was mesmerized by Caleb Nathaniel. Smitten, he watched every movement and every expression of his baby son. If expectant mothers glowed, this father-to-a-newborn was the one who glowed now. Nathan cooed and rocked and sang softly and if baby Caleb slept, Nathan prayed and gave thanks to God for this blessed miracle.
Oft speechless, Nathan and Elizabeth quietly held each other, standing over the sleeping babe or laid beside each other in bed. They gradually learned to sleep when Caleb slept, but the challenge to pull themselves from watching and marveling was a real struggle.
The RCMP had quickly spread the news amongst the Mountie brotherhood, and greeting cards and telegrams from far and wide were stacked in a blue-bowed basket on the rush-bottomed chair in the Grant's entryway.
Although a surprise to Nathan and Elizabeth, Commissioner and Mrs. Collins planned a visit to Hope Valley for the weekend of a very special event. The Christening of Caleb Nathaniel Grant was planned for late October! Julie and her fiancé who was Nathan's cousin, Matthew MacGill, traveled from Vancouver for the weekend and, gladly accepting the honor of being a sponsor for baby Caleb, Gabe Kinslow, brought his new bride, Lillian, for the weekend as well.
After the first hymn and Scripture reading, Nathan held baby Caleb beside the communion table, with Elizabeth holding her arm threaded through that of her husband. Big sister, Allie, and big brother, Jack, stood beside Elizabeth, surrounded by Gabe with Lillian, and Rosemary with Lee. Pastor Joseph led the brief but meaning-filled ceremony and although Caleb squealed as the water splashed over his brow, he quickly calmed in his father's comforting embrace. Parents, siblings, and Gabe and Rosemary laid hands on baby Caleb as Joseph prayed, dedicating this little one to the Lord and blessing him and his parents to raise Him in the ways of God.
As the congregation witnessed and agreed to support this sweet family, many were teary-eyed as they recalled Nathan Grant holding baby Jack many years ago. It had been a tender moment then and these moments were the same. God had brought this little family together and it was a day of great rejoicing!
Anne Thatcher and Eileen Grant had conspired together to plan a light lunch reception at the Meeting Place in the Valley Inn after the church service, so many in Hope Valley celebrated this special baby and this special day. Accompanied by Anne and Eileen, Elizabeth left the service following the Christening to avoid the crowd and allow time for nursing and a nap. Nathan sat with Jack on his lap and his arm around Allie for the remainder of the service, but was anxious to get to the Inn as soon as possible.
As family and friends gathered, Bill welcomed everyone to the buffet, and requested understanding that Caleb was too young to be exposed to so many or to so much noise. On behalf of Nathan and Elizabeth, Bill thanked all who attended and introduced Joseph to pray a blessing on the food and again on the Grant and Thatcher family.
After collecting a basket of food that Rosemary prepared, Nathan and Elizabeth headed home with their little one looking forward to some quiet and time alone, together.
Upon entering the house two hours later, Allie was the first in the door. She glanced in the front room and immediately turned to shush everyone following her, pointing to the sofa. There was Elizabeth, feet tucked under her skirt and snuggled against Nathan. Nathan's long legs were stretched out in front of him, sans shoes, and Caleb was curled up on his father's chest. All three were sound asleep!
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Epilogue Three
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The dedication of Hope Valey Central School was scheduled for mid-November and the Thatchers were happy to be present. They still hoped that everyone wouldn't figure out how extensive their part had been in the establishing of the new school building and library. Yet circumstances had brought them to Hope Valley for Caleb's christening and they had decided to stay through Christmas and New Year's with the family. So many traditions had been established their first Christmas together at the Grant homestead that they longed to make a Hope Valley Christmas one of their traditions as long as Nathan and Elizabeth would allow them to do so! Nathan and Elizabeth had no problem with that as their families had found ways to be present, but yet also allow them private time for themselves or with the children. Having Archie and Eileen's guest cottage on site meant the two sets of parents, who had become close friends, could alos enjoy some quiet time together as well!
As the day approached, excitement grew in Hope Valley. For a few days, the school students had helped to pack up both their belongings and all the school supplies to be ready for the big move on Friday afternoon.
Town volunteers came to remove bulletin boards and repaint the walls of what would now be known as the Hope Valley Community Church. A permanent dark green, velvet curtain was draped across the front wall and a new brass cross was hung in front of the drape and above the Communion Table.
On Saturday morning, The Hope Valley Central School was completed and ready for the dedication ceremony.
Standing on the steps of the new school, a very proud new father to Patricia Jayne, Lee Coulter spoke in front of the gathered crowd of parents, children and townspeople, beaming with happiness.
"Welcome all and thank you for attending this very special day in the life of our town! After some dedications, you are welcome to tour the school and library as well as indulge in some delicious treats prepared by Abigail's Café as well as local volunteers. Thank you so much."
Too sleep-deprived to depend on his memory, Lee consulted his notes. "Thank you also to all the volunteers who have made this new school possible and are working to make our church sanctuary so beautiful as well. But that is for tomorrow!"
"Today, it is my pleasure to introduce you to the new Hope Valley Central School. Our previous school was known as the Jack Thornton School. This new school has a new name. Yet it is dedicated to the memory of Hope Valley's first Mountie, Constable Jack Thornton, in addition to some other very important men in our community. I am honored to announce that the new Hope Valley Central School is dedicated to the memory of the many men; husbands and fathers, sons and brothers, who lost their lives in the Coal Mine. Their dedication to providing for their families and building a community laid the foundation for what Hope Valley has become. We owe them our gratitude. Let us pause for a moment of silence in remembrance and appreciation." Lee and those attending bowed their heads. As expected, a few soft sniffles were heard.
After a round of applause grew and quieted, Lee continued. "As you walk the halls of this new facility you will see some plaques to honor local citizens. First, the Hall that will serve as our auditorium and concert hall has been gifted by most generous benefactors of our town, William and Anne Thatcher, and named for their daughter & son-in-law, 'Grant Hall.' We are grateful for Elizabeth's and Nathan's service to teach and to protect Hope Valley."
A round of applause acknowledged a blushing Nathan and Elizabeth while, surprised, they nodded and mouthed the words, "Thank you."
"In one of the hallways, please note that the Art Room is donated in honor of the wives and mothers, daughters and sisters who persevered under unfathomable odds to rebuild our town and raise their families together. It is because of them that Coal Valley became Hope Valley. We honor you ladies and thank you for bringing color and laughter back into our lives." Lee began a round of applause which grew quickly.
Lee continued. "Unbeknownst to many of you, our own Judge, William Avery, is a musician. He has a fine voice and plays guitar, so the new Music Room is dedicated to you, Bill. Thank you for your dedicated service to Hope Valley and the surrounding communities." Shocked, Bill stood speechless as additional applause resounded.
"An anonymous donor has gifted the school with a piano, miscellaneous musical instruments, art supplies and sports equipment. Also we have a significant number of new books, including materials in Braille, in our relocated library and Mrs. Cat Montgomery has agreed to serve Monday through Saturday afternoons as our librarian. This will allow our students to access the library during and immediately following school hours. We are so grateful!"
"We are in the midst of developing a program where local individuals will teach a once-a-week class to train interested students in various musical instruments. Bill Avery? You may be called upon for that!" Laughter circulated the crowd. "More on that to come."
"Mr. Mike Hickam has agreed to coach a baseball team in our sports fields when the weather permits next spring and my wife, Mrs. Rosemary Coulter, is leading the chorus, in preparation for a Christmas concert this year and future seasonal concerts going forward."
"Finally, as you will notice, this building accommodates additional students in multiple classrooms. We are pleased to announce that Miss Katie Yost is returning to Hope Valley and will instruct our secondary grades, while Miss Laura Campbell will continue as teacher to our primary grades. Parents? Please bear with us as it will take some days of adjustment to all the new arrangements, schedules, classes and rooms!"
"In conclusion, I want to personally thank all of you for your community spirit, for coming together to keep each other safe and provided for, for bravely facing the challenges to our town, for weathering the departures of some and the disappointments of others. You are truly who Hope Valley is and I, for one, am proud and grateful to be a part of this wonderful community. I am also thankful that my newborn daughter will one day be educated within these doors!" Lee grinned. "Now, let's cut the ribbon and open Hope Valley Central School for tours!"
"Nathan? Bill? Elizabeth? Will you do the honors?" Lee handed the scissors to Elizabeth and instructed the men to hold the ribbon on either side. "Three. Two. One! Welcome to our new school!" Lee was exuberant! As Chairman of the School Board, this had been a dream for a long time and he was beyond happy to see it materialize.
On the following day the church bell rang at the close of Sunday's service.
Deciding it was a beautiful autumn day and knowing winter was around the corner, the younger Grants chose to walk and enjoy the exercise and fresh air. Arranging for Archie and William to drive the vehicles home, the young family headed away from the church after the service. Baby Caleb peeked over his father's shoulder. Elizabeth held one hand in the crook of Nathan's arm while she held Jack's hand with the other. Allie kept a hold of Jack's other hand and they walked together laughing and loving.
"Dad?" Allie looked from her brother to her mother to her father and baby brother. This was her family and her heart was full. Swinging Jack's hand she asked. "Can we sing my song? Actually, it's really our song now."
"It is our song now, all of ours!" Nathan took in his children and his wife, looking deep into the ocean blue eyes he loved so much. Nathan silently sent an arrow prayer to the Lord. 'Thank you for Your gift, Your blessing of my precious Lizabeth and this family.' Nathan squeezed his wife's arm against his side. "Let's sing."
'I know the wind is silver
I know the grass is green
I know the sun is golden
and clear water runs in the stream, the stream.
Yes, clear water runs in the stream.
I know the mountains are purple
I know the rain is gray
I know the tulips will soon be red
and I'll gather them all in May, in May.
Yes, I'll gather them all in May.
I know that autumn paints the leaves
I know that snowflakes dance
I know that spring will sprout again
and the world be full of romance, romance.
Yes, the world be full of romance.
I know that clouds are cotton white
I know the heavens are blue
I know that earth is velvety brown
and the love in my heart is for you, for you.
Yes, the love in my heart is for you.' (EMH)
Even after many years of growing love and more than a year of married life, this is still only the beginning for this beautiful family, for tomorrow is always a new day and they know that, full of love, they will sing a joyful song of the heart together, for always and forever.
If this scene was to be filmed, the Grant family walking home is where you would see "Iris out to a heart!"
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Author's Note: I cannot thank you enough, dear readers, for taking this journey with me for the past sixteen months. We began with the difficult inquiry in Hope Valley and have ended with a joyful, loving and blended family that should have been, but now will always be in the land of FanFiction. Nathan is loved, appreciated and promoted. Elizabeth overcomes her fears and finds love again. Allie has a mother and a loving family and Jack has a father. And Bill? Bill has a loving family too!
Thank you for your encouraging words, appreciation, corrections and kindness throughout the writing of 'A Song of the Heart.'
Special gratitude goes to Cinda, who encouraged me to put words on paper and follow a new path in my life, and to Lauralyn who, along with Cinda, walked me through the early process of publishing on the FanFiction website. Thanks to Jennifer who encouraged me to keep writing when I had little feedback and directed me to the statistics page of the website. It was there that I realized God had been guiding all along and His Truth was being proclaimed through this story in surprising ways and to far reaching places! Bless you all!
Also, I must acknowledge and thank Elizabeth and Melissa for the Sunday Night Serge Bookclub! Your idea, efforts, dedication and encouragement go far beyond an hour's zoom call! You and our wonderful members, both authors and readers, have surprised me, taught me and blessed me in incalculable ways. Thank you! I send hugs to you all.
Please note that all poetry and songs are original, unless annotated. Although written over a lifetime, they were self-published in 2014, but I am making some available by sharing them through my FanFiction stories. I hope you enjoyed the additional poems I included in Epilogue One? (A little bonus because writing about and being beside the sea makes my heart happy!)
All God's very best for each of you! I invite you to join me on my most recent FanFiction story, "Beyond What We Could Dream." Because I am invested in writing that story, this one has concluded, but I hope I have left you with a song in your heart!