Chapter Twenty-Two
Fishing Cabin Weekend
Chapter Twenty-Two
Fishing Cabin Weekend
A/N – What a great Thanksgiving. As always, Amy and Ty love being with their children and family. The Borden's are spending the weekend at the newly renovated family Fishing Cabin, so we get to see what mischief they get into. Thanks for all the reviews, keep them coming. Mature Content. Enjoy!
To say the morning was chaotic was an understatement but everyone was really excited. They were still really full of the Thanksgiving feast so they had another quick breakfast. The girls each finished their packing and helped their mom get JTs stuff ready. Ty got the SUV hooked up to the four-horse trailer and began loading the luggage and supplies. Amy and Ty had decided to take Blaze and Triumph so Jack had already left to take them up. He would come back Monday morning to get them. The girls each got their own horses ready and also brought some extra hay. The cabin had a nice paddock and small barn so the horses would be OK at night. Amy packed Ty's stuff and did a double check on everything needed for JT. The twins and Maddie were going to use one bedroom, Lyndy and JT in the other one and Amy and Ty in the master. None of the bedrooms were huge but were comfortable. They had the fireplace and potbellied stove to warm the place up and since it was going to be cold at night, were bringing space heaters for each bedroom. They were safe or Ty would never had agreed to bring them. After a final check, JT and Maddie were buckled in and everyone did a final check. As usual Ty had a checklist that Amy and the girls gave him trouble about.
The drive up was fun as they sang, laughed and played the ABC game. The best part for Ty was when Amy sang some of Grandma Lyndy's songs and the girls joined in. As he listened a tear came to his eyes as he remembered all of the times Amy had sung them. He daydreamed about Jack's Birthday Party and band reunion, Caleb and Ashley's wedding, when they picked up the hitchhiker/car thief, right before he left for Mongolia and all the nights, he sang their kids to sleep. And now to hear the girls sing them as well, it was overwhelming. Amy looked at his emotional response and squeezed his free hand smiling. JT was in heaven. He was having a blast listening to everyone. As they sang, he stared at his mother recognizing the songs she sang to him. He smiled and never stopped gazing at her. Ty moved his eyes that way and Amy saw it too, smiling at her little boy. With about 10 minutes left in the trip, Maddie asked, "How much longer?" Ty smiled and said 10 minutes but Maddie wasn't sure she believed him. He looked at her with his mouth open and said, "What you don't believe me?" Ten minutes later they pulled up to the cabin.
Jack had started the potbellied stove so when they walked in the place was warm. In a hasty manner everything was unloaded. Lyndy and the twins took the horses and hay to the barn. Blaze and Triumph were in the paddock so they left them all outside figuring they would ride today. They noticed Jack had brought some hay as well. Maddie took care of an overly helpful JT while Amy and Ty brought luggage and food supplies in. The plan was to do some fishing so trout would definitely on the menu for dinner. And as cold as it was, they could easily leave some of the coolers outside in the locked bins Jack built to keep the animals away. After the horses were settled the girls set up their rooms and helped their mom sort the food. Ty moved the truck and trailer to the pad behind the cabin and did a quick check to the outside of the cabin. It was lunch time they had sandwiches and chips. Amy and Ty spoiled them a bit while they were there which the girls were happy about. Generally their food was much healthier. At lunch Ty pulled out his checklist to talk about what they were going to do. Maddie grabbed it and threw it in the fireplace as everyone laughed except Ty. She saw his look as she looked over at him and felt bad. She ran over to hug him and said, I'm sorry daddy but I think we should just do what we want when we want. We don't need a list to do that," Including Amy they all added, "Yeah Dad". He smiled and gave her a big kiss, "Your right honey, let the fun begin!" Amy snuggled into her side, "Its Ok daddy we still all love you." He whispered in her ear, "We will see about that tonight."
The afternoon saw everyone kind of doing their own things. Ty and Addie immediately went to the stream to catch some dinner. Lyndy the twins took JT for a walk and Amy sat on the porch and read her book, keeping an eye on everyone. As she looked over the scene in front of her, she felt all warm inside realizing how blessed she was. Her only interruptions came when Ty and Addie landed a fish and the other kids were running around with JT on the bank. About midafternoon Lyndy brought back a sleeping JT. "Nap time for the little man, can Annie, Maddie and I go for a short ride?" Well I will put him down while you guys tack up the horses, everything is in the trailer. Saddle up Blaze too and I will give the baby monitor to your dad and Addie. After JT was snuggled in, she went to tell Ty what was going on giving him a kiss and looking at their catch. "Wow 6 already, we will have a great dinner. We should be back in an hour or so." She kissed him again, much to Addie's displeasure and she walked away sticking her tongue out at her. "Real mature mom." She squawked.
As the group got back from their ride into the foothills, they saw Ty and Addie sitting on the deck with an excited JT. He screamed out, "Momma, Lynny, Annie, Maddie." Ty put him down as her ran toward them. The girls stabled the horses and made sure all of them went to the creek for water and put fresh hay in the barn. Again, they made sure the barn door was secure to make sure they were protected. Wolves, Coyotes and bears were around so the barn door had a catch that closed it securely. Amy picked up her little boy and went to hug Addie and kiss Ty. She went inside to see the table set and a pot of mac and cheese on the stove. "The fish are cleaned and ready to fry, Amy that is your specialty." Ty said. Lyndy and Maddie offered to help so they got the frying pans and oil. Dinner was the best and there was plenty of trout for the group. The mac and cheese was great except when Ty and Addie put ketchup on it. The rest of the group gagged. Dishes were cleaned, trash was discarded in the secured can outside and they settled down in the main room.
It had been a long day but the family sat together in the living room and listened to Amy and Ty's stories about the Fishing Cabin. It was way over 100 years old and was built by GG's GG, which they thought was amazing. Originally the family rode horses there and used to camp. After the cabin was built little by little there were improvements. A well was dug, the potbellied stove and fireplace were put in along with some interior improvements. The told stories of how their GG and Grandma Lyndy spent their honeymoon there and that she wrote many of the songs that they sing now right on the front porch. Addie questioned, "Was Great Grandma really in a band?" Remembering the stories Amy said, "Yes when GG was on the Rodeo circuit, she would write songs and tour around with a small band. She had a pretty amazing life."
Actually several years ago I found out that my teacher's father used to play with her. He was starting to suffer from Alzheimer's, which is when you are older and start forgetting things." Kind of like dad," Annie joked. As everyone chuckled except Ty, she went over and hugged him. Amy continued, "Anyway he called about his horse that he wanted me to look at. He seemed ok but when he arrived, he called me Marion and your dad and I knew something was up. Then my teacher, his daughter showed up worried about him and not understanding how he got there. GG remembered his name and while we talked to her, he took him inside. He started playing some of Grandma Lyndy's song and miraculously he picked up GG's guitar and started playing it perfectly. He actually was in the band with her. His daughter said he hadn't played in years and was in tears. Grandma Lyndy really was amazing and I still remember being here with them and her sitting right there and singing to me." Amy teared up as Ty hugged her. "So, as mom can tell you this place is full of many memories."
"Tell us the story of when you said you loved each other for the first time," Lyndy asked on the edge of her seat. She was holding JT who was out like a light. Amy began, "Well it had been a tough year for your dad and me. Things were starting to get better and we ended up coming up here to feed some wild horses. Scott was concerned because of a hard freeze and asked us to do it. GG was going to come but at the last minute he couldn't so he let us come up together, which I have to say I was excited about.' Addie interrupted, "Wait a minute, you were 16 and dad wasn't even 18 yet and he let you come up alone together? What the heck." "Well trust me not everyone was on board but he trusted us and we were coming back that evening. Anyway we got to it when we arrived and laid the feed hay out. As we were eating lunch and talking about us and other things, we heard horses outside so we went to look. Sure enough about 20 wild horses showed up, it was amazing. Dad wasn't feeling well and thought he saw Ghost, you know the horse we always talk about. Well I didn't see him and as I looked back your dad collapsed onto the snow."
"I got him inside and he was burning up and delirious. Also it had begun to snow really bad so I radioed GG to let hm know about Ty and he said he would come get us. Well the roads were closed so I took care of dad all night. He was trying to be tough and said he could drive home but then he fell back down in the bed sweating a lot and was really sick. I made him some soup and made sure he stayed warm and keep hydrated." "Wait a minute," Maddie interrupted with wide eyes, "you spent the night together, you weren't even married yet." Amy calmed her, "Honey at the time there was only one bed and trust me your dad was out of it. I wanted to make sure he was Ok so yes, we were in the bed together. Besides being sick your dad is a good man and nothing would have happened, he gave GG his word." Ty spoke, "When two people love each other like we were finding out you should respect each other as well. GG and I had a talk about that when I first came to Heartland." The girls were still looking intently at their parents as Amy continued, "The next morning we woke up dad was feeling better and as I warmed the fire up, he told me I was beautiful. Before I could respond I heard horses again and looked out the window. It was the real ghost horse. We went outside and he walked right up to us and he was with his family. We held each other and finally said what we had felt for a long time. We looked each other in the eyes and said we love you to each other for the first time. It was magical."
The girls felt all warm inside as well hearing how much their parents loved each other even before they knew it. Maddie yawned but had a serious look on her face. Ty looked at her concerned pulling her to his lap. "Why did you take so long to say I love you to each other. What if it never would have happened. What if you never got married." Settling her down Amy answered her question, "Girls, your daddy and I loved each other all along, we just were immature and I guess scared a bit. We always cared for each other even when we weren't together. It just took a while to realize it." The girls seemed satisfied and all looked very tired. Annie spoke up, "Tell us about the night you proposed daddy, I love that story. "Girls we have two more days and nights together so we can have a lot of story time. And mom and I expect a story or two from each of you so start thinking about that. But it is time for bed so go get ready and we will be in shortly." Ty said. As they went to their rooms, Amy snuggled up under Ty's neck. "I love that story and I love you. I can't imagine being any happier than I am right now. They checked on the girls who were asleep already and headed to bed, locking the door. Their evening was not over yet.
The next morning found everyone refreshed and ready to have fun. The sun was up early and it looked like it was going to be a warmer day. After breakfast, they went on a family trail ride. JT was excited to ride with his mom but also liked being passed around to the others. They brought a picnic lunch and rode all the way to Miller's Crossing which was further up the river. They found a beautiful spot on the shore and set up. The girls watered the horses and tied them up so they could graze. Amy and Lyndy set up the picnic lunch and Ty built a fire. The enjoyed sandwiches and potato salad with blueberry muffins for dessert. When they finished, they cleaned up and the girls wanted to swim in the river. They had their winter suits on and went into the water. Ty, Amy and JT opted to watch. "How do they handle that cold water," Ty wondered. "Well they are strong Canadian women, I remember a few times when we swam in the cold. But we did have each other to help warm up." She smiled breathlessly. All of a sudden they heard a scream from Addie, "Mommy, Daddy Annie has a cramp! She is having trouble, please help"
Without hesitation Ty bolted to the water shedding his jacket. He was in the water immediately heading toward their daughter. He latched on to her carrying her to the shore where Amy and the girls were waiting with towels and blankets. They tended to Annie who was more embarrassed than hurt. Amy helped the cramp go away and held her soothing in her motherly way. JT waddled over and held onto her tightly as well. He knew that she needed him and refused to let he go. She smiled and hugged him with all her might. Ty made sure the rest of the girls dried off and got dressed. While Amy and JT were tending to Annie, they packed up the horses getting ready to go back to the cabin. Annie rode with Addie as she was still a bit shaky so Lyndy ponied Theo. They got on their way for a leisurely ride back. As they were on their way, Maddie proclaimed, "Looks like we have another story to tell our families about this place. When Daddy saved Annie." They all laughed
They got back to the cabin in time for a little fishing as Ty set up the outdoor grill to make steak and potatoes for dinner. Amy was with her kids at the stream. Amy even helped JT throw a line in and when he had a bite, he so excited he pulled the line out too soon. They girls each caught at least one trout but threw them back in – catch and release GG would always say. When they finished, they went up to see that Ty almost had everything done. "Dad, why are you and mom insistent on steak and potatoes for dinner, it's not something we usually eat," Annie asked. Amy smiled at Ty lovingly and answered, "Well tonight when we retell the proposal story, we will let you know. Now you guys go clean up and get the table set. JT and I will get the salad ready. After they walked in while holding JT she hugged and kissed her husband on the cheek smiling into his neck. JT, said, "Momma, Dadda kiss." They each kissed his cheeks and hugged him tightly and he added, "Love you Momma and Dadda" as they both melted.
Dinner was very active as the girls enjoyed the steaks while hoping to drag more information from their parents about why this feast meant so much. The steaks and potatoes were cooked to perfection and Amy said, "Just the way I remember." The girls looked up even more confused so Ty broke in. "So tell me about fishing, I heard a lot of yelling did you get any?" The girls all shook their heads yes and bragged to each other. The JT blurted out, "JT fish!" with a big smile on his face. Since he was so cute everyone turned their focus on him and he loved it. Amy whispered to Ty, "Man this kid will be spoiled," kissing his cheek. So he shrieked, "Momma Dadda Kiss." Everyone was rolling in laughter. Dinner ended up with a couple of Saskatoon berry pies and some ice cream. The girls were in heaven and really full. They all got their pajamas on as Amy put JT to bed after a round of kisses.
Once they were all back the girls anxiously waited for the story, they couldn't get off their minds. Once seated Amy started the conversation. "So your dad had made many attempts to ask me to marry him and things didn't seem to work out well. First, I found the ring by accident, then I confronted him and he tried to ask but I kind of lost it, then he spilled water on me and then we decided to wait. Dad was so upset about it he mistakenly told a vet clinic client they had to put her dog down when he was just in for a nail trim." "Mom, why were you so mean to daddy, he loves you a lot." Maddie cried. Ty brought her onto her lap, "Mommy wasn't mean, I kind of messed up but I can say that she did admit to Lou later they she didn't know why she waited so there is that." Amy rolled her eyes, "So, back to the story. GG's friend Stumpy asked if he could help setting up tents for a group coming to his camp near the foothills. Dad, Georgie and I were going to go with him. At the last minute, Clint, sorry Mr. Riley, showed up to talk to GG about becoming Georgie's legal guardian. It ended up that only Dad and I went and he felt it was the time to ask me." He already had GG and Grandpa's approval and even Lou knew. After he told me how nervous he was."
Ty took over, "While we were on a trail ride, we came across a foal who was caught in a horse trap. Ranchers aren't fond of wild horses and try to catch them all the time. The little guy was cut up pretty bad so we harnessed him and took him back with us so we could treat the wound. I cleaned it up and we tried to see if that would help." Amy continued, " I remembered and old remedy of Grandmas, so I went out found the willow bark we needed. When I was out, I saw the herd and approached the mare. She was beautiful and I am certain she knew we had her baby. When I got back dad and I applied it to the bandage and planned on checking it out in the morning. While we were there the mare showed up. We had tried to feed him but he wasn't weened yet. Miraculously the foal nursed over the fence and we were really happy." Lyndy interrupted and the girls laughed, "The Miracle Girl does it again."
"So since we were spending the night, we brought some steak and potatoes for dinner. Your dad offered to cook so I just sat and watched him. We talked about our amazing day and I told him that this seemed right, the two of us together working on the foal. We kissed, sorry Addie, but then I smelled something burning. Dad jumped up and picked up one of the potatoes and shrieked as it burnt his hand. He dropped it down and got the tongs to check it. I was slightly worried but he immediately said I'm tough and we started chasing each other around the fire. I called him a marshmallow and he laughed." The girls were mesmerized as the story was told. Ty took over. "So after I cooked a great dinner, we went for a walk by the creek and were talking about how well we worked together on the foal. She congratulated me on starting college and I thanked her for her support and told her it was because of her. We were standing outside the tent we were staying in and kissed." Wait a minute you guys weren't married and you staying in the tent together, GG was easy on you," Addie brought up. Amy shushed her, "Give it up you guys. Anyway we were standing there when the ground started to rumble as the wild herd ran by, it was incredible.
When we looked up at the sky, we saw a shooting star and I said to your dad, Make a Wish. He looked into my eyes and said, "I wish I could spend the rest of my life with you." I melted and then watched him get on one knee. It was like I knew what was happening but was still shocked. He held up this ring and said "Amy Fleming, will you marry me." I fumbled and finally said "Of course yes" and he slipped the ring on my finger. I jumped up in his arms and said yes like 5 times while kissing him." Amy hesitated and continued. "Girls seeing you each born was amazing but I have to say that night was magical, your dad was awesome and scared at the same time. I know that we were meant to be together forever and you guys are a part of that. After that we went into the tent to celebrate." "Gross, Addie said" Maddie added, how did you celebrate?" Everyone blushed and Ty jumped in. "Well the next morning, we went to check the foal and he was all healed up. So we went and took care of the tents and took the foal back to the mare. It was a happy reunion and mom and I were happy as well. Girls, your mom is the first and last women I will ever love and when she said yes, I was the happiest man in the world." The girls were speechless as they watch their parents and the love they shared. After some tears and lots of hugs everyone went to bed content and happy. Although it wasn't said all four of them were happy to have such amazing parents.
The next morning everyone woke up refreshed. Amy and Ty celebrated well into the evening so when the girls came out Lyndy stopped the rest of them and spoke. "Let them sleep a little longer. Annie and Addie take JT and go tend to the horses and Maddie and I will get breakfast out. I think its cereal morning. About 45 minutes later Amy woke up looked at the clock and hit Ty, "look what time it is TY, I bet the girls are up already." Ty grabbed and hugged her tightly, "Its ok, last night was amazing Miracle girl and I am sure your Minnie Me has everything in order. God she is so like you," "And like you to," Amy said giving him a passionate kiss." They kissed for a few more minutes, groaned and got dressed since clothes had been discarded during the night. As they walked out of the room, they were amazed, The girls were at the set table, JT was in his chair and Addie told them the horses were all good. The family had a great breakfast with discussion on what to do today.
The day was very relaxing, a leisurely walk or two, some fishing, a short trail ride and just hanging out. The kids had a lot of fun with their little brother watching him experience things for the first time. Amy and Ty were amazed at how wonderful they were with him. They sat on the porch watching their kids silently realizing how lucky they were. Dinner was pizza and game night. No more stories to be told. Everyone was tired and went to bed peacefully. Amy and Ty made a special check on Annie to see how she was doing after the river incident. The next morning they had a full breakfast prepared by men of the family as the girls packed things up. Once the delicious breakfast was done, they cleaned up, loaded up the truck and closed up the house. Everyone had a job to do and it went smoothly. The ride home was fun with some more singing. Everyone had a lot of fun and had a lot of stories to share when they got back. The Borden family was a close as ever and each of them left the weekend feeling good about what they were a part of – a loving and close family.