Chapter Thirty-Two
Changes – College Life Round Two
A/N – The stage is set. I hope I am not boring some of you with all the "business" stuff. My intention is to create several story lines off of the new company so it will be worth it. For the most part the "business" stuff is over. Changes are already underway at many of the facilities and the press release is ready. And on top of everything the Spring Lecture is close at the U Of C and school is winding down for the kids. This should be a fun chapter. Mature Content. Enjoy
The energy around the Equine Center and the other facilities was electrifying. Huddled conversations could be seen happening all around but the best thing was that business was continuing to grow, especially with the news of a second lecture by Amy and Ty. Every seat would be filled as word was spreading throughout all of Canada and the northwestern US. Over two hundred of the attendees were outside of the Calgary and Alberta area. Also several members of the Equine Association Board and media were attending as well. Much to their surprise the "Good Morning Calgary" show would be interviewing Amy and Ty the morning of the lecture. All in all the decision to form this new organization made more and more sense to the original team and now the entire staff. Even clients were noticing the increased attention they were receiving and positive attitude that everyone had. Bethany was in for her weekend of training with Will and Billy. While Amy was working with her, Ty and Will stood watching. JT and Billy were off with Maddie and Gwen hanging out. Will leaned over to Ty and asked, "Man Ty, everyone seems to be pumped here, what is up." Ty answered discretely, "Well we have a lot of good things going on and a lot of changes are happening. And Amy and I have a lecture at the U of C that is capturing a lot of attention, heck, Amy and I are going to be on the "Good Morning Calgary" show."
"That is so cool, like I know celebrities." He paused and seemed a little apprehensive. "Well we have news, I hope you guys are OK but Bethany, Billy and I are moving to this area. I got an offer to be a lieutenant with the Hudson County Fire Coop and luckily there is an opening at Hudson Elementary that Bethany has applied for." Ty stepped back and thought how just a few months ago he met this family under a stressful situation and now they would be moving here. "What about the family farm?" Well there are other siblings who are really into the business, it was really just a place to stay. It is time for us to set up a home, especially with the new baby on the way. And we thought, well we hope you would be Ok with us moving here." Amy was on a break with Bethany as they walked over. Kissing Amy Ty said did you hear? She smiled, "I know this is amazing. I bet the kids will be pumped. And I told Bethany that Lou and Lisa are on the school board so the job is hers." As Bethany and her hugged. After a few seconds Ty added, "And you have a bunch of babysitters that I know." Bethany continued her lesson as Ty and Will went to check on the two toddlers.
Construction was starting at several facilities. The largest project would be the transformation of the Fairfield house. And they also received great news. Lisa's nephew, Ben Stillman, his wife Jennifer and their two small children would be moving in. Lisa had always dreamed of passing the place on to him and now he would be overseeing the horse operation and Jennifer would oversee not only the new Fairfield rooms but the Dude Ranch cabins as well allowing Lou more time for her CFO and Maggie's duties. The good thing she had a degree in hospitality management and it was a perfect fit. The Board was excited as well as this seemed almost too good to be true. It changed the remodel, now needing room for a family but it was not a big impact. The next largest project was The Vet Clinic and work was already underway as well as the adjustments to the Equine Center. The small addition to the Heartland barn and loft were also designed and work would be done before Georgie's baby was born. The decision was made to hold off on the Dude Ranch improvements but plans and expected cost were put together so the 'Board' had the information. Ty, Amy, Caleb, and Jack also had begun looking at Calebs team. That had already picked leads at all facilities and after some active conversation, decided to assign Clay, Katie's now serious boyfriend in the role for Heartland, which was smaller and feed was just for horses and supplies were minimal. He would be graduating this year so even with university, if he decided to go, he would have the time. And to say Katie was excited was an understatement.
As things progressed keeping things under wraps was becoming more difficult. As they talked to Suppliers it became challenging to keep things controlled and with all of the construction teams on site word was getting out that something was up with all of the facilities owned by the Bartlett, Fleming, Stillman and Cardinals. Word on the street was that something was going on. Due to bids and manpower on site they had to use several construction firms so more and more keeping things quiet was getting difficult. The "Board" had an emergency meeting and Max joined. It was decided that they would move the announcement up, in fact they would use the "Good Morning Calgary" appearance so Ty and Amy could announce it. All official announcements would go out the next morning. Max ensured them that all legal matters were in order and moving the announcement up wouldn't be a concern. Since Lilly and Max were coming in for the lecture, it was decided that he would be the official spokesperson for the government offices as well as the media. He had a lot of this experience and luckily he was cutting back on his practice moving toward retirement. He was happy to be able to turn his firm over to his two daughters, who were both lawyers. He had met his wife at law school and unfortunately she passed away right after his youngest daughter graduated.
At dinner, the night before the lecture the Borden family and some guest were enjoying dinner. Wyatt of course was there as well as Georgie and Steven. Maddie jokingly said, "Man Georgie, look at all the food you have, you know we have to eat too." The others gave her a mean look until Steven interceded, "I know our food bill has doubled, man that is one hungry baby." Realizing what he said he looked at his not happy wife until she smiled and started laughing. He fell back in his chair relieved. Amy interjected, "Heck she could be eating for three, wouldn't that be great." Rather than get a stern look back Georgie simply replied, "Not Funny." Her response was tempered because a few weeks ago at her checkup, they had found out that they actually were having twins. They had decided to let everyone know after the new business announcement. Everyone was doing great as she was about halfway through her term. Lyndy and Amy noticed the expression but remained quiet, glancing over to Wyatt and Ty. The rest of the conversation has about school, the business, and Amy and Ty's interview. Annie spoke up, "You guys are going to be like celebrities. Adds and I have told everyone and I bet all of Hudson and Calgary will be watching." Addie added, "And my friend Ella still thinks my dad is hot. Amy rolled her eyes and whispered in Ty's ear, "You are." Addie heard it and yelled, "Gross." It was going to be an early morning as the kids were going to the show as well, per the request of the producers so everyone went to bed early.
The next morning they had to be at the studio by 7:30am so the SUV headed out at 6:45. The kids were excited, especially JT who kept saying, "Mommy and Daddy on TV." When they arrived they were taken into a waiting area as they were scheduled to be interviewed at 8:15 or 8:30. There was seating for them as the kids got to sit just behind the cameras. More people wanted to come but it was a small area so they were relegated to all going to Heartland to watch it together. Even Tim and Casey came to see them. After some light makeup was being applied, the hosts Sam and Alex, both women, came to say hi. The girls were excited to meet real TV personalities. The show was the number one rated morning show in Alberta. As the time drew close they were brought out to the set. The girls and JT were in put their seats, so they could see the whole set. Amy and Lyndy had a serious conversation with Maddie and JT to be quiet and both reluctantly agreed to. In a flurry of activity during a break, Amy and Ty were led to their seats on stage. The host greeted them and reminded them of what would happen. They received the questions but were told sometimes things went off script. Amy and Ty also asked for a minute or so to make an exciting announcement that was readily agreed to – breaking news were what they lived for.
The director put five fingers up and counted down. The cameras became live as the two hosts thanked the weather person for her great report and then began to talk about their next interview and what they had been told a big announcement from two people, who are called the Alberta Equine Power Couple. Alex introduced them giving a synopsis of who they were and what they had accomplished. Although hard to encapsulate she did a great job covering some of the high points of their life. The Miracle Girl story came up along with Dark Horse, Ring of Fire and coaching a European team. For Ty Mongolia was brought up, the various awards he had received from the Alberta Veterinarian Association as well as the innovative surgeries that he and Scott had developed that were now being shared. They took a breath and looked at a smiling Amy and Ty who said thank you and that they were excited to be on the show. "But before we talk about this lecture this afternoon at the U of C and the big announcement, here is what we believe is the biggest accomplishment of their lives." Sam took over and boasted for them, "On top of everything they have accomplished they have five children, yes five and they are here today. Kids come up here to be with your parents. In another flurry of activity the kids were reluctantly ushered up and their chairs were added to the crowded stage. This was a complete surprise to Amy and Ty as well. Although JT was sitting with Lyndy, he immediately ran to his mom, to a round of awes by the host and crews. "So Amy or Ty who wants to introduce this beautiful group of children."
Ty took JT and looking to Amy she took the ball. "Well thank you Alex and Sam, our kids are a little shell shocked right now. At the end is our oldest daughter Lyndy. She is going to be thirteen in less than a month and is an amazing child being a champion show jumper and dancer. The next two if you haven't noticed are our 10-year-old twins, Annie and Addie. They are very active in school and are both accomplished show jumpers. And then there is our Maddie. She is a 6-year-old with the mind of an adult. She is caring and kind but let me warn you she will tell you what she thinks, no filters. And finally in Ty's lap is our little man Jackson Tyler or JT, who is a year and a half. As you can imagine with four older sisters he hardly ever gets attention, just kidding, but to be honest he is an amazing child and loved by everyone he meets." With a tear in her eye, she continued," Ty and I are so lucky to have such amazing children and we count our blessings every day. And Ty, he is the love of my life and an amazing father." There was a pause as everyone on the crew caught their breath as Maddie stepped in, "Alex and Sam, our parents are the best and are really, really in love. But I know my siblings agree that they are the most amazing parents in the world and we love them with our whole hearts." Alex and Sam could barely speak but Addie saved the day. "But I have to say, they kiss a little bit too much." The room erupted as Alex broke for a commercial break.
During the 2-minute break a lot of Kleenexes were handed out and there was a lot of makeup redone. After everyone composed them self, it was decided that the kids would remain on stage and JT was reminded to with quiet with Maddie. Right before they started Lyndy leaned over to her mom, "Mom you look beautiful and what you said about all of us was amazing. As the camera came back on Alex brought them back, noticing that Lyndy and her mom were in a private conversation. "Lyndy not to put you on the spot but your conversation seemed pretty intense with you mom." She responded blushing, "I just told her how beautiful she looks and how much we love her and my dad. I wish everyone was as lucky as the five of us are." Before there was another emotional breakdown Sam stepped in and said, "Ok Amy and Ty tell us about your lecture this afternoon, we understand that the indoor arena at the U of C is going to be standing room only. A quote from the Dean of the University, "We could have filled the arena three times. We had so many request that we added some additional seating and set up a satellite location for folks to watch it via live stream. In addition we have been told the entire event was going to be videoed and made available to universities and equine facilities around Canada.
Ty and Amy took a few minutes to provide an overview of what they were doing. They didn't want to get into too much detail but Amy mentioned that she and Georgie Fleming Weber, their niece and Canadian Olympic Champion would be working with four client horses, each with different issues. Not only would they demonstrated the processes they use but they were going to share their herbal remedies used for each type of problem. Ty mentioned that he would detail the vetting process that every hose goes through as well. Ty then mentioned that although this session was more horse behaviorally based he along with Dr, Cardinal, Dr. Odell and Dr Weber, a recent O of C graduate and Georgie's husband would share some new innovations in the surgical care of horses they have developed since the last lecture. But then Ty smiled, "Alex and Mel if time allows all attendees will get the chance to witness a live liberty session done by the Miracle Girl. She has been working with her horse Blaze and mine, Triumph and I will tell you this it will be unbelievable. Amy's talents are unmatched when it comes to total horse care." Amy smiled at him lovingly kissing his cheek. Addie frowned, "Told You."
Mel spoke up, "Ok we have a minute left, Amy and Ty I understand you have an announcement." Ty took the ball, "Well Alex and Mel we have an exciting announcement to make. Our family is engaged in six business, our Equine Center, Heartland Ranch, Fairfield Stables, Maggie's Diner, The Hudson Vet Clinic and The Heartland Dude Ranch. As of now they run separately." Amy took over their rehearsed script. "What we are announcing today is the formation of a new company, The Heartland Equestrian Expereince." Our intention is to have six separate independent organizations rolling up to one company for efficiency and improved full service for every one of our clients, whatever their need. Our motto is "Everything For You / Everything For Your Horse." They were pleased when the new logo was shown on the screen behind them. Ty resumed, "Press releases will be sent tomorrow to the media, equine associations, business leaders and government officials We are really excited about this opportunity and are confident that we will continue to grow helping Alberta to be the Canadian Center for Equine Services. The interview ended as Mel and Alex thanked them and each of their kids, especially JT.
The family headed back to the Miracle Ranch to regroup, rest and get ready for the lecture that started in 4 hours. The family met them with excited hugs and congratulations. The phone had been ringing off the hook with calls from clients, suppliers, friends, the mayor and almost everyone else they knew. Needless to say the announcement was a big deal and everyone was so pleased at how it came across. Amy and Ty got JT down for a nap and went to their room to rest. They would be leaving with Scott, Lou, Caleb, Cass, Georgie, and Steven with the horses and supplies a little before the rest of the family. They wanted an hour to get set up and get their bearings. As they laid there they cuddled. Ty whispered, "Well that went better than I imagined. The kids were amazing and I have to agree with Lyndy, you looked beautiful." She smiled and without words leaned over and passionately kissed her husband. Their passion ignited but since the kids were there along with some visitors they decided to step it down. She whispered, "I don't think I have ever wanted your more than I do right now Dr. Borden but.. Rain Check."
After a few hours of much needed rest the first group headed out. Katie was coming as well because Amy wanted her and Steven the ring when Georgie was working with the two horses she had. One would need to be ridden and Georgie could not so that. They arrived to an excited university staff who said people had already begun to arrive. They had a spot for them to park as several media trucks were there as well. Dr. Molder approached them with a big smile on his face. "I have amazing news, not only are the mayor's of Hudson and Calgary coming, but we also heard from her staff that the Governor was attending as well. In fact she requested to introduce you guys." The group was amazed and began to set everything up. They brought four horses, 2 each for Amy and Georgie, each with different issues. They had already done some prework and had a plan on what to do. They had a table set up with the herbal remedies and journals. A round pen had been built within the arena that they would use. The horses along with Blaze and Triumph were placed in a small stable with plenty of feed and water. They also had another area set up with a table and multiple video screens. It would be used for Ty, Scott, Cass and Steven's part of the program. There was cameras set up and a podium where the governor would speak with the Provincial Logo on it. It was a pretty impressive setup.
The group did a quick walk-through with Dr Molder, commenting on how amazing everything looked. He bragged, "Well Amy and Ty we are more than aware of the benefit for you and your new organization, but this is big for the university. The Equine program has added many new students due to your first lecture and we expect even more after this one." As they finished they noticed a ruckus by one of the entrances. As they looked over they saw and entourage of people with the Governor in the middle walking to them with a smile on her face. "Dr. and Mrs. Borden it is so nice to meet you." The greeted her and introduced their group. "I am so excited to be here to witness your event. I am a rider but really am looking forward to seeing you all in action. You are a testament to the love of horses and great ambassadors for our province. I am privileged to introduce you today but even more excited to see what you do. Thank you." Amy and Ty were overwhelmed as Amy responded, "Governor Atwell, thank you so much. We really appreciate your support and the support of the university. We are looking forward to the clinic as well." The governor smiled, "And that show this morning, I have received calls from several other governors including the Prime Minister. You have made quite an impression. And your kids, they are precious." Amy gushed hugging Ty, "Well thank you that means a lot to us." "The governor gave her a slight hug and said, "But you have to get ready. After things settle I would love to have your family to the mansion for dinner. I would love my family to meet yours."
The show was about to start and each of them were fitted with microphones attached to a had gear. The place was filled to capacity and people were also standing along the rails. Amy, Georgie and Katie were in full cowgirl garb, Amy having Ty's favorite powder blue jeans. The vets were in standard scrubs. The first horse was in the round pen as the governor approach the podium. After an amazing introduction, Amy, and Ty went through the agenda which was passed out as people came in. Along with the agenda they mentioned that the program, put together by the University, included bios on them, details of the horses, details of the surgical procedures that would be presented and a brief history of Amy's liberty work. On the last page was contact information for the new company as well as each individual company. And finally on the back cover was a tribute to the family members who were gone. They also welcomed questions and pointed out the remote microphone holder in bright yellow shirts throughout the stands. Amy began to lunge the first horse as the plan was to show join up with each of them. During the process she calmly explained what she was doing and what the issue was with the horse. The table with herbs and journals was brough next to the ring. When the horse slowed and came to her shoulder the crowd erupted in applause. She then went outside the ring to explain the herbs used for the issue as well as the journals she accessed for information. Ty looked at her in amazement. Her ability to communicate what she did was amazing. His smile was wide especially when he thought about the rain check they had.
Amy introduced Georgie "I am going to turn this over to Georgie, whom I expect most people recognize. Helping her is her sister Katie Fleming Morris. As you see Georgie is almost 5 months pregnant and can't ride. Trust me she along with me are not happy when we can't ride." Georgie began to speak but before the crowd started chanting "Canada, Canada, Canada" recognizing her Olympic accomplishments. She blushed, "Thank you all very much but this horse is getting a little anxious. Today I am going to join up with her and hopefully get her to let us ride her. She refuses to saddle so Katie and I have our work cut out for us." As Steven entered the ring she joked holding her belly, "And it seems my husband Dr. Steven Weber wants to help to. But the twins and I appreciate it." Realizing what she said she blushed and hid in Steven's arms. The family was overwhelmed hooting and hollering. Amy, Ty and Katie went to the middle of the ring to hug hem both. Finally Steven stepped in. "Well everyone I feel the need to clarify what is happening. Georgie and I were going to wait a bit to tell the family but now everyone knows that we are having twins. If you must know this family is kind of crazy." The crowd erupted again in laughter and applause as Lou headed to the ring as well to hug her daughter. As the crowd and family settled Georgie regained her composure and began the join up.
The rest of the sessions done by Amy and Georgie went perfectly. Almost every goal was achieved and conditions, remedies and journal reference were communicated the crowd was abuzz. During the programs as questions came they were answered quickly. There were a lot of questions about T-Touch, join up, herbal remedies and how the journals were used. The question came up again about making the journals available for the public to access. Ty stepped in, "I'll take that, as you may now these journals are the combination of work that has been done for decades. Amy's grandma Lyndy, mother Marion, Amy and Georgie have all contributed. It is the ultimate family heirloom. So as with many family heirlooms, traditionally it stays within the family. But in this case we have decided to provide a reference guide. Not the actual journal entries which have sentimental value but steps, processes and herbal remedies needed for certain challenges." Amy stepped in with a tear in her eyes, "These journals are a testament to the legacy of our family, but that legacy has always been to share what we have learned. I want to add to that these will be provided to educational institution for just the cost of printing and shipping. And to the general public the profit made will all be donated to the Alberta Equine Association to help them improve the life of the 4-leggeds." The crowd broke out into respectful applause and Amy and Ty as well as Steven, Georgie, and Katie hugged each other. Amy whispered in Ty's ear, "I can't wait for our rain check." After a request for final questions, the session took a 15-minute break.
During the break, the horses were stabled and Blaze and Triumph were brought out. The Heartland group huddled excited about how well the first half went but more important about the news of twins. Addie and Annie ran to Georgie hugging her excited about another set of twins in the family, Addie blurted, "Can we help name them and we will also be more than happy to teach them how to be twins." Georgie laughed, "Well thanks and I think that would be great. A five-minute warning was given and the four vets took their places at the table they would be presenting from. Amy, Georgie and Katie began prepping Blaze and Triumph for the liberty session Amy would be doing. As the crowd returned and begun to settle Ty was shocked as the Governor approached the podium. She smiled at Ty and asked, "Would you mind if I speak?" Ty hugged her instinctively and gave her the podium. "Welcome back, I apologize for stepping up and trust me this is not a political thing. I ride horses but I have never witnessed such an amazing thing in my life. Amy and Ty and the rest of this group are true treasures to our province and Canada as a whole. You know I have some things to attend to but I can't leave, not just because of what these four outstanding vets have to talk about but to witness the Miracle Girl giving a liberty session. Ok I am done, I give the podium back to Dr. Borden."
Ty blushed thanking the Governor and began to speak. "Well first of all I have a favor to ask, I know you are all excited to watching the Miracle Girl in action and I know you see her getting ready. Trust me I have to keep my self from keeping my eyes off of her as well." Out of the family section he heard Addie yell, Stop it you to!" "Anyway we are going to take the next 45 minutes or so to go over some recent surgical innovations we have developed in partnership with the university. Our hope is to continue to develop these procedures to improve the lives of the horses we help. And I just have to add, Dr. Odell, Dr. Weber and I are proud graduates of this program. Unfortunately, Dr. Cardinal graduated from the University of Manitoba." A chorus oaf boos and hoots were heard from the students. "But he is my mentor and all three of us have learned a lot of valuable things from him over the years." Scott stood up holding his O of C plaque. "But to clear things up, I have received a certificate giving me an Adjust Professorship form this fine university, so I am one of you as well." He sat down pleased with his interjection as the crowd laughed and applauded for him. Ty stepped in, "Well if you are done Dr. Cardinal lets get started. I ask that you follow along with us with your program."
Over the next 60 minutes, Ty, Scott,, Cass and Steven went through the four procedures outlined in the program. They were detailed at a level that they felt the entire audience could benefit from. It went a little longer because there were so many questions. Ty insured them that the details of all the procedures were available through the university but the questions still came. At 60 minutes after all the procedures were covered, Ty completed the presentation. "Trust me, we could talk to you for many hours about the work we have done, but we all know what is coming up next. After the lecture is complete we will remain up here to a bit to answer any more questions and I know that Amy, Georgie and Katie will be doing the same thing. So without further delay I want you to turn your attention to the center of the arena."
"Amy Borden will be working with Blaze, her horse and Triumph who is mine. Before she starts I have to tell everyone a story." As he began a picture of them with Spartan appeared on the screens. Totally surprised Amy looked at the picture of her best friend as her eyes teared up. "When Amy was 15, along with her mother they rescued this horse, Spartan. During that rescue there was an accident and unfortunately her mother, the famous horse healer Marion Fleming passed away. Amy's grandpa made it his mission for Amy to 'fix" him." He hesitated and took a breath. "Watching Amy work with Spartan is the reason we are here today. Not just because it made me fall in love with her, which it did, but it gave her the confidence to use her god given skill and come to the place she is today. Unfortunately after a long and happy life we lost him not to long ago. What you are about to witness Amy do was developed because of the love they shared. So, I give you the "Miracle Girl."
The entire family actually most of the audience was in tears. Ty's story was amazing and Amy listening being tightly held by her nieces. After he finished the crowd clapped in anticipation. Before she start she went over to her approaching husband and hugged him like it was the first time whispering I love you in his ear. She gathered up the horses and began the liberty session. There was no need for words as she danced with them as the followed her every command. They spun around and raised when prompted. It was like a symphony with horses. Everyone noted her determination and the bond with her two partners. For the final move, Blaze laid down, Triumph maneuvered over him and Amy climbed to stand on his back with arms outstretched. They crowd stood giving her a rousing ovation while shaking their heads in amazement. The session concluded and the team stayed around for any more questions. The family packed up and headed home.
After checking on the kids, Amy and Ty headed to bed. They were tired but on a tremendous high from the event. They checked their personal and business email and they were all lit up with questions, request for service, positive comments and thanks for the event. Amy rolled over to her husband kissing him, "Ty what you said to the audience about Spartan, I can't even put into words how it made me feel." He looked deeply in her eyes, "Along with Jack and Marion, he is the reason I fell in love with you and love you more than ever right now." They kissed with the passion of young lovers, their tongues battling. She smiled as she pulled away, "Rain Check time!" And with that they discarded each other's clothes and began the familiar ritual of their total and complete love for each other. Both noticed an intensity in their love making but at the same consideration for each other's needs. Amy pleasured him in ways that were seductive and totally fulfilling. Ty returned the love and made sure she reached the apex of his love for her. They joined with intensity and softness. As they reached an unbelievable climax they moaned each other's name breathlessly. As they laid next to each other they gazed into their love's eyes not needing to say anything.