Chapter Seventy

So Much To Be Thankful For

A/N – Lyndy definitely has a decision to make but on a good note it seems she can continue to enjoy everything she does while still getting a taste of high-level dance instruction. As I have mentioned a new storyline about her is in its infant stages will definitely build on everything she has and will accomplish. It is time for the holiday. I am really going to focus on the Borden's but several other famliy and friends will have storylines as well. Lots of fun stuff coming our way.

Some may say that I seem to include Ty and Amy's intimate relationship too often. I have two reasons for including it. First to reinforce a love affair that has received legendary acclaim through the show. Even after Graham decided to leave the show, their love continues on. Second my design is to include it when an event or occurrence happens that in real life would stimulate such an effect. That might sound a little stoic but that is my intent. I hope you all feel it is appropriate. And as always I would love to hear from you so please let me know how I am doing with a review. Enjoy

The weeks before the Thanksgiving holiday were one of contemplation for young Lyndy Borden. Many people gave her their thoughts and feelings and she appreciated it, but as her mom continued to say it was her decision. One night before they went to sleep, Wyatt and her were talking through several things. "Wyatt I know I have asked this already but what is your opinion – what should I do?" He smiled, "Lyndy you are killing me but here you go. The great thing about the Goddard offer is that you can still do everything else you want to do. I know I am a broken record but it is your decision, but, by going to Goddard you will enhance your dancing skills while still keeping your focus on regular school, jumping and working with you mother. I think it is the best of all worlds and something you have earned. I won't lie, I will miss you on Tuesday and Thursdays but I will survive." He leaned over to tickle her as Ty and Amy walked in. Ty raised his eyebrow as they quickly moved back to their seats. "How are things going you two," he questioned in a fatherly tone. Lyndy blushed, "Chill dad we are talking about my decision and Wyatt let me know what he thought. We were just teasing each other a little." Before Ty could answer Amy grabbed his arm, "So young lady is there a verdict yet?" Lyndy smiled and looked directly at her parents. "I want to do it. Like Wyatt said it allows me to experience something completely new while still being able to pursue all of the things I love. I am a little scared but I think it is the best thing to do. We can try it next semester and go from there. What do you guys think?" Amy and Ty smiled at each other and Ty spoke focusing on his words. "Honey we think that is a very mature decision and we will support you 100%. You have a great opportunity that you earned and we believe you should jump on it." Amy smiled, "Let's give them a call tomorrow when you get home from school." The hugged her good night and Ty patted Wyatt's shoulder but had to add, "10 minutes you two."

The next morning at breakfast for the first time in a while Lyndy seemed more at ease. The usual conversations were underway as Amy and Ty looked on with smiles on their faces. There were times of disagreement but it always seemed to work itself out. The kids could never stay mad at each other for long which always warmed the heart of their parents. With her usual perceptiveness, Maddie was observing Lyndy's mood change. She had this way about her and as she looked at her Amy could notice her attention to her older sister. She whispered to Ty, "Look at Maddie, she knows and is going to ask her." He smiled kissing her cheek. Maddie spoke up, "Mom, Dad we are eating breakfast for goodness sakes. But actually, Lyndy spill it. You have decided haven't you." This immediately grabbed the attention of everyone at the table. Annie and Addie looked at their older sister waiting for her to answer. Lyndy smiled and grabbed Wyatt's hand under the table. She looked up to speak, "Well I have decided to start at Goddard next semester. Mom and I are going to call them today and work out the details but we, I decided that this is the best thing for me right now. I will still be here for breakfast and dinner every day so nothing will be different." She hesitated and continued, "I need you guys, especially now more than ever. I love each of you very much and no matter what you are the most importance people in my life." The girls came over to hug their sister as JT looked on. Finally he spoke up. "Why does everyone seem sad?" Amy laughed at her little man, "Honey it is a happy sad. We are happy for Lyndy and will always be there for her." He smiled and went to hug his sister. "I got you sis." As they calmed down Lyndy had one more thing to say. "Now here is the hardest part. I need to keep this between us only. I want to tell the family this Sunday at our Thanksgiving thing." Specifically looking at Maddie she said, "Can you guys keep quiet for a couple of days?" Maddie shrugged her shoulders, "I guess but I can keep it quiet, but afterwards I am going to brag about my awesome sister." Lyndy started tickling JT who was on her lap, "And that means you too." If you tell anyone I will have Wyatt tickle you a lot." He laughed and took his finger and rubbed it over his lips. Everyone laughed at their funny little brother.

The end of the week at school was a challenge but the Borden family met Lyndy's wishes. It was Sunday morning and the family had a light breakfast. Since it was going to be a large group they again decided to use Fairfield for the celebration. Including the family many friends were also going to be there. Ben, Jenn and the kids, Will, Bethany and little Billy, Calab, Cass and Ben, Dr Ellie and Nick and of course Grandma June. All together the headcount was in the mid-thirties. They decided to have Maggie's take care of the food and as always several of the kids from the youth program offered to set up and take down. Amy and Lisa were always amazed at their help and decided to get them gift cards as a reward, even though they didn't want it. As everyone gathered a lot of people were talking to Lyndy about her wonderful opportunity. She was gracious but figured she better do something. As the family got ready to sit around the table, Ty noticed Lyndy talking to Jack privately. He leaned over to Amy, "I bet she is telling him, look at his face." Amy smiled observing them embrace. Once the group settled, Jack got everyone's attention. "Well everyone, Happy Thanksgiving. In the past I have gone around the room asking everyone to say what they are thankful for but I am afraid with this crowd the food would get cold." Everyone laughed and kind of agreed. "Lisa and I are so proud of everyone in this room. All of you are amazing people and we love all of you completely." The unusual emotional comment by Jack brought tears to many.

"Ok, enough of the mushy stuff. There are several things I want to say before we enjoy this amazing food. First we are so thankful that Lilly is feeling better. Lilly you know we are all behind you and if you need anything there are a lot of people her you can rely on." Ty was sitting next to his mom and embraced her as she smiled tearily. "Lisa and I are also thankful for all of you. This family and extended family are a joy to be around. You know our business is doing really well because of everyone in this room. But more important than business this group is always ready to support each other whenever someone needs it. There is one member of our clan who has been offered and amazing opportunity and has had to make a big life decision. So Lyndy the floor is yours." Everyone's startled eyes went to her as she stood up next to her GG for support. Lyndy totally loved her GG and she had always leaned on him for support. This was no different. She hesitantly began, "Well I am sure everyone knows that I received an offer to attend the Goddard School of Dance in Calgary. The offer was to attend Goddard two days a week and continue at Hudson High the other three. They worked together to create a modified program that would give me the best of all worlds. At Goddard I would take practical art study courses in the morning and will spend the afternoon in dance classes. They want me to take all of the dance disciplines but of course focus on my ballet. So my mom and I called them the other day and accepted their offer beginning next semester." The group erupted in applause for this amazing young women. After several minutes of hugs and congratulations Jack spoke up. "Let's eat."

As the afternoon carried on the conversations were varied. Lyndy was happy to be past her thing and wanted to get focused on other family chatter. Several animated conversations were underway all around the table. Tim, Max and Jack were talking fishing as several of the young boys listened intently. JT spoke up, "GG, when can we go fishing again?" He laughed, "Unless you want to go ice fishing, probably not till spring. After your birthday we will plan a big trip with the three of us, you and all your buddies." Several of the young boys gave a thumbs up excited but impatient. After dinner, several continuing conversation broke out in different parts of the room. Caleb and Ben were in a heated conversation about the comparison between rodeo and show jumping. Caleb squawked about how rodeo cowboys are much more athletic and that most jumpers were women. When those words came out of his mouth he immediately got death stares from Amy, Georgie, Katie and Lyndy. Amy yelled over, "I can't believe you said that Caleb O'Dell." The four of them headed his way as Ben and some others cleared out. Caleb tried to run but Tim and Jack told him to cowboy up and stand his ground like a true cowboy would. While that was going on Ty noticed Clay and Steven in a quiet conversation. He wandered over to them trying to avoid the battle on the other side of the room. Picking up Noah Ty asked, "Hey you two, what's up." Clay pulled him in, "Well we need your help. Can you and Amy take the twins, Georgie and I have to do something." Clay stepped in, "And so do Katie and I." Feeling a bit weirded out, Ty looked at them understanding what they needed. "Of course and congrats for whatever it is." They all laughed.

As the battle subsided, Ty took both Noah and Hannah in his arms and headed to his wife. She looked at him puzzled but happily grabbed a giddy Hannah, hugging her tightly. "What's up are we on babysitting duty?" Ty smiled, "Just hold on and watch. I think Katie and Clay as well as Georgie and Steven are going to make this an even more thankful day." Realizing what he meant they four of them hugged. As they parted, Steven tapped his glass to get everyone's attention. After a few moments, the group noticed that Steven, Georgie, Katie and Clay were standing waiting for them to settle. Steven began by putting his arm around his wife. "Georgie and I have some news to share. We are pregnant and due in mid-May. Don't worry Lyndy it will be before your birthday. Georgie and the baby are fine and we are very excited and we are sure it is only one." The crowd sat for a moment and then erupted. Lou was in tears as she ran to her daughter. Jack and Lisa were besides themselves as they headed to them as well. Even Tim had a slight tear in his eye as he and Casey headed to hug them as well. Noah and Hannah sat in Amy and Ty's lap not understanding what was going on as they were being hugged and kissed by everyone. Annie and Addie saw their look and headed their way. They smiled at their mom and dad as Addie spoke. "Guys let us have them, they need some twin support. They are a bit overwhelmed so let us help them." Amy smiled as she handed Hannah off and headed over to Georgie. Noah and Hannah settled as Ty walked away. He was amazed at their connection. Georgie had a huge smile as everyone congratulated her. Steven and her were excited and looking forward to their new addition. As Amy approached she broke out into more tears, hugging her tightly. She laughed, "Well I think we have our first Day Care kid." Everyone laughed.

As everyone settled they remembered that Clay and Katie were needing their attention as well. Tim yelled out, "Katie you aren't pregnant too are you." Casey slapped him as Clay got everyone's attention. "Katie and I in no way want to upstage the baby news but we have an announcement as well. We have set a wedding date." Katie continued, "We planned to be married next summer, probably late June. So again Lyndy you are good with your birthday." Clay laughed and commented, "Don't worry guys this wasn't planned but it did time out well. And Steven and Georgie knew because we have asked them to be our maid of honor and best man." Lou almost passed out after the second announcement. Scott had to carry her over to her other daughter. Everyone laughed as the usually controlled Lou could not even speak. After more congrats and hugs she finally composed herself. "A baby and a wedding, I have to get started planning. Georgie and Katie we need to start making plans and lists." Scott laughed and spoke out, "Well my wife is back." As they happiness continued that family and friends were fired up. Jack leaned over to Lisa, June, Max, Lilly, Tim and Casey. "This family is something else. Theres always something going on. You know it really feels good." Lisa smiled and grabbed his hand. "Oh Jack you are an old softy. Just think more kids running around. The fishing group is going to get a lot bigger." They all laughed and felt great watching the family legacy live on. June spoke up, "Guys look at Lyndy and Wyatt. I have to tell you what you all have done for my grandson is wonderful. Losing his parent so young was just terrible and I did my best but our family is not close. Look at him looking at her as she talks. I know they are young, but they are something else" Jack smiled and grabbed her hand. "June she is so much like her mom, grandma, Lisa and great grandma. When I see her I see all of them in her. She is an amazing young woman and he is a special young man. Outside of the drama they remind me of Amy and Ty as they grew up." He joked with Lisa, "Let's just hope they have less drama." Lilly smiled, "I second that." They all chuckled watching everything around them.

As the party continued Amy and Ty were sitting with Caleb, Cass, Ellie, Nick, Will and Bethany. They were catching up on their lives. Cass and Bethany were talking about their kids. Amy noticed that each of them were a little distant. "Ok you two what's up, I mean I love to talk about my kids but you guys seems a little more invested in the discussion." Will smiled, "Well we also have news. Bethany is a little over two months pregnant and we are over the moon. We haven't told Billy yet but he has wanted a younger sibling for a while so he will be excited." Cass almost looked like she was going to get sick. Amy looked over concerned as Caleb added to the conversation. "Well seems we have an epidemic, Cass and I are pregnant too. Will and Bethany, we may need to get a group rate and maybe share a room." Amy and Ty were shocked and so happy with the news. They seemed to draw attention of others and figured they probably needed to let everyone know. Cass and Bethany found their sons so they could be with them with them as they told the group. They both wiggled in their mom's laps so Amy helped them keep them at bay. Ty stood up and got everyone's attention again. Of course Tim yelled out, "Don't tell me you and Amy are pregnant again." Casey again smacked him. "No Tim we are not." He stepped away as Will and Caleb stood up and in unison said, "We are pregnant too" Everyone went crazy. Caleb then yelled out, "Don't worry nothing weird but it seems that Cass and Bethany are due two days apart." Again hugs and congratulations abounded. Caleb and Will were beaming with pride as Cass and Bethany, with Amy's help explained what was going on to their confused little boys. Once they got it they smiled and hugged their moms tightly. Amy laughed and looked over to Georgie, "Thanks goodness we are going to have a day care. We made need to make it bigger." Everyone laughed as the party continued ell into the early evening.

Over the next week of fall break the buzz around the family and staff was at an all-time high. News of the wedding, new babies and Lyndy's decision was all everyone could talk about. Almost immediately Georgie, Cass and Bethany became guarded and cared for. Every time they tried to lift something or do something strenuous there was someone there helping. It had become a little annoying so they had a lanyard made that said, "Don't Bubble Wrap Me." They wore them proudly and when someone stepped in to help, they waved it in their face. It worked on most people except their husbands and Ty. Amy joked, "Ty is the bubble wrap king, so good luck trying to get him to ease up." They all laughed and agreed. The Borden girls were enjoying their time off but kept busy working with their mom, Georgie, Katie and the horses. Amy felt warm about the fact that all of her girls were so into what they did at the Equine Center. One day, Lyndy and her were working closely on a horse who was challenging. On a break, Lyndy looked at her mom with a question. "Mom am I a bad person." Amy leaned back realizing she was serious. "Honey of course you aren't what's on your mind." She whispered, "Well first, am I being fair to Wyatt with the Goddard thing. I mean I know we talked about it a lot but I feel like I am abandoning him. I mean he says everything is fine but I can't stop thinking that this will hurt our relationship." Amy looked at her beautiful daughter and said with confidence. "Lyndy, Wyatt cares for you deeply and I can assure you he is just as excited as you are. I see the look on his face when you talk to people about it. He is proud of you. The first time being apart from someone you love is hard but I believe it makes you stronger. I know it did for your dad and I." Lyndy smiled but then looked at her startled. "You just said that we are in love, you really think we are?" Amy smiled and without answering hugged her tightly.

"So Lyndy what else is bothering you?" Lyndy put her head down. "I feel horrible about this. I am excited about new babies for Cass, Georgie and Bethany as well as Katie's wedding, I am. But part of me is relieved because it took some of the pressure off of me and my decisions. Am I being self-centered and selfish. I am so happy for all of them and excited about weddings and new babies but this really is bothering me. Wyatt says that I am being silly but it still weighs on my mind." Amy again looked deeply into her deep blue eyes and confidently talked to her in a very motherly manner. "Lyndy, like me we don't like the limelight but it is a part of our lives. Feeling relief is not a bad thing but I don't think it is selfish at all. I am pretty sure we both will be really involved in Katies wedding and Georgie's baby. I even think we will be there if Cass and Bethany need us. That is what Borden women do, we are there for those we love. You don't fret and focus on what you have in front of you. How exciting is everything going on around us." They laughed and got back to the horse they were working with. Both of them smiled and realized the solace of working with a horse always made things better. Amy had tried join up but the horse was resistant. Lyndy leaned over the fence, "Mom let me give it a try. Maybe he needs a change of pace." Amy shook her head in agreement and let he take over. She watched as Lyndy expertly moved the horse around the ring. She watched in awe as she made the horse change direction several times. Finally on cue she turned away from the horse. As she walked towards her mom, she heard the hooves of the approaching horse. The horses muzzle leaned into her shoulder as they both smiled. "Way to go girlie." Amy joined her in welcoming the horse.

Maddie, Gwen and Sylvia were spending a lot of time together. Maddie and Gwen were determined to get Sylvia to learn how to ride and convinced Katie to help. Amy and Katie talked to Sylvia's parents and assured them they would work with her and be safe. They were a little concerned but couldn't deny that their daughter was really excited. Amy told her mom, "Let's do this. Give us some time and one Saturday we will invite you guys and Sylvia's siblings over for lunch. And we will let the three of them put on a show for you. We will invite Gwen's family as well and make it a big deal." Sylvia's mom smiled in agreement. She felt this would be a big step for their daughter. Over the next few weeks Katie worked with the three of them helping Sylvia get comfortable with the horse they had her using. It was 8 hand pony that was very gentle. Buttercup was enjoying the attention and was warming up to her new rider. Sylvia seemed to be learning fast, just like Gwen did. It really seemed to help that both Maddie and Gwen were with her riding as well. The three riders and horses gelled and that really helped the learning curve. The lunch was scheduled and all the families were together. Lyndy, Addie, Annie and JT were there to support their sister and her friends. After a fun lunch it was time for the show. Amy and Katie mounted their horses as well as the three girls. They all paraded around the ring varying their speed. Amy, Katie and Maddie went over some small jumps and then to the surprise of Gwen and Sylvia's families they made a round on grounded trot poles. Sylvia's parents were overwhelmed with what they saw. After they finished they went to hug their daughter who beamed with pride. Her mom looked over to Amy and Katie and mouthed "Thank You." It was a fun day.

It was almost the end of the holiday break. At dinner, Addie and Annie seemed a little preoccupied and not to talkative. Both Amy and Ty noticed it and decided quietly to talk to them as they made their rounds. Once dinner finished everyone helped clean up and headed up to their rooms. Amy and Ty had a chance to sit on a chair in the living room to snuggle. Their snuggling moved into a pretty serious make out session. After several minutes they heard little feet heading their way, "Mommy and Dady are you going to come to tell me good night. Or are you going to sit there and kiss each other." They both laughed and grabbed him into their lap kissing him all over. "Gross, come on I am tired." They got up and Amy whispered, "What happened to our little boy. My god he is becoming Maddie." They headed to his room for an official good night, spoke to Maddie quickly and headed to see the twins. Amy mentioned to Lyndy that they were going to spend a little more time with them and she understood. As they walked in they were in a heated conversation in their personal language. Ty raised his eyebrows, "Girls remember the rule." Addie spoke first, "Sorry we were just talking and got carried away. We have a favor to ask of you. We want to go to a movie with friends on Friday, kind of to celebrate the end of our break." Amy looked at them questioning, "Ok you know that is fine with us and if you need us to drive we can." Annie continued, "Well when we say friends, we just mean Jeremy and Desi. We want to go to Maggie's and then an early show. We will come home right after the movie, we promise." Amy and Ty tried to control their smiles as Amy spoke first giggling. "A double date huh, so you guys are all getting along well I see." Addie blushed, "Geez mom don't be a dork, we just want to go somewhere the four of us. Our friends are always weird when it is a big group and always make fun of us. We just don't want the hassle and want to spend time together, the four of us." Ty added, "So how do Jeremy and Desi's parents feel about this. They answered the question. Annie spoke up, "Jeremy's mom and dad are good in fact they offered to drive us there." Addie added, "Desi is talking to his parents tonight. He is pretty sure they will be Ok with it." Amy spoke caringly, "Well we are Ok with it as well and would be happy to pick you guys up. We trust you guys and know you will have fun."

The date was set to go. Jeremy's dad showed up with the boys at 4:30 to pick up the girls. Maddie and Lyndy helped them get ready. After they all finished a ride they showered and cleaned up. They picked out nice outfits that matched their individual personalities. Each had a nice pair of jeans and dress boots. Annie's top was flowery and a little more girlie that highlighted her hair and eyes and Addie was dressed in a top which was for her a little more girlie. It was still black and grey but not the typical biker look. Maddie commented, "Wow Addie, you must really like him, that is a great looking top, you look amazing." Addie smiled and for once was quiet. Lyndy applied very light makeup for both of them and help style their hair was nicely each going with ponytails. Ty called up to let the girls know that Jeremy and Desi were there. Maddie ran down to see them first with a big smile on her face. A few moments later Annie and Addie walked down the steps followed by a smiling Lyndy. JT looked at his sisters and proudly said, "You guys look pretty." That broke the tension as everyone laughed. Jeremy and Desi were mesmerized at their dates and both said how nice they each looked. The four of them walked out to the car after the girls hugged their parents and sisters. Maddie whispered to each of them, "Now you two better behave." At the prescribed time Amy and Ty headed to the theater to pick the four of them up. As they pulled up they saw the four of them smiling and talking happily. When they got in the car, Amy waited about a second and asked how there evening was. Annie laughed, "Jeremy got sacred at the movie and almost jumped in my lap." He laughed and tapped her arm, "No I didn't, I was just startled." Ty laughed, Jeremy don't' worry this one next to me usually turns her head and hides when a scary part comes on the screen." It was Amy's turn to smack her husband's arm. They dropped the boys off and headed home with two very happy girls.

Amy and Ty checked on JT and Maddie, who were sound asleep. They went into Lyndy's room and Wyatt had already went to bed. They thanked her for taking care of the younger ones. She asked, "Well how did it go?" Amy smiled, "Seemed good, I am sure they will tell you all about to tomorrow." They made their last stop in the twins room. They were already cleaned up and in bed. Both yawned as they walked. Ty laughed, "You two look tired, so was it fun?" Annie and Addie both sat up in their bed to answer his question. Annie spoke for them, "Mom and Dad, it was so much fun. It was nice just the four of us. We all get along really well, and without the other friends we were able to really enjoyed being together. We want to thank you for letting us go and trusting us." Amy smiled and went to hold them, "Well of course we trust you and we really like those two boys. But now for the speech. You are all young, don't limit your group of friends. You can still be close to them but don't alienate others. Lyndy will tell you that although she cares deeply for Wyatt they still have other close friends and are OK doing things independently with others. Naturally, you want to spend a lot of time with them but make sure you don't neglect the others around you." They both smiled understanding what she was saying. They both yawned at the same time, kissed their parents and went to bed. Amy and Ty went to their room and got ready for bed. As with every night Ty gazed at his wife combing her beautiful long blonde hair getting ready for bed. When she climbed in he pulled her into his arms and whispered, "What you said to the girls was amazing. You are a wonderful mom to our kids and I love you so much for it. Just think, the fun is just beginning." She smiled rolling over on top of him with her eyes gleaming and a big smile on her face, "Speaking of fun…" There night was just beginning.