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Chapter One hundred fifty

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Friends' Gathering!

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Stomping and removing their boots on the front porch the Blake family arrived and stepped into the Cottage in stocking-clad feet.

Elizabeth and Allie greeted their guests at the door. "Hello! Please bring in your boots so we can warm them near the fire? There is a hooked rug there for that purpose." Taking Johanna's coat, Elizabeth hung it on the clothes tree and hugged her friend, adding, "It's so great to have you here!"

"It's great to be here, Elizabeth. All of us have been looking forward to this evening!" Johanna handed her daughter's shoes to her and proceeded to step into her own.

"Hello, everyone! Winter is here today, eh?" Josiah commented as he and Jared followed Allie into the kitchen. "Hello there, Miss Allie. How are you tonight?" Having deposited the heavy baskets on the kitchen table, Jared turned to watch his father give Allie a shoulder hug.

"I'm very well, thank you. I'm excited you are all here." Allie looked shyly at Jared who, with cheeks more pink than just from the cold, smiled at her.

"We are happy to be invited, Allie. It will be fun." Jared followed her back to the front room. "This is a nice, cozy home."

Immediately bombarded with a hug from Jack, Jared grinned at the little boy. "Hey, Jack! It's good to see you tonight. Is that your handiwork in the front room?"

Nodding, Jack grabbed Jared's hand and tugged him towards his Lincoln Log creation.

"Hello, Sergeant Grant. I hope you are feeling better?" Jared turned to offer his hand, even while Jack kept hold of his other.

"Thank you, Jared. I'm improving every day, although it is not as speedy a recovery as I would like." Releasing Jared's hand, Nathan was engulfed in a hug from Johanna, then Ellie and finally Josiah. All had leaned over so Nathan didn't need to stand up.

"You are looking mighty fine, Nathan. I'm glad you are not wearing a tie! I told Johanna this was family casual. Thanks for not letting me down!" Josiah began to sit in the chair beside the fire when Nathan held up his hand.

Nathan offered, "Would everyone like a tour? Allie loves to share our space with guests and it won't take long as it is a small cottage!"

"Yes, please!" Johanna smiled at Elizabeth, adding, "The food can wait for a bit, Elizabeth, it was hot right from the oven. Plus, I want to see this charming home!"

. .

Nathan sat listening from the front room, enjoying the comments and compliments although grateful he wasn't receiving them face-to-face. That changed as soon as the Blake family returned to the front room.

"Nathan, I had no idea Allie was so talented. She does take after her mother whose art is also incredible. But you? Nathan! Music, art, poetry, and fine wood-carving! All together that is an impressive accumulation of work and artwork. Little Jack said we have to see the toys you carved for him too."

"Jack? Please show everyone your Mountie toys and horses?" Elizabeth requested. "Allie, could you get the cardinal ornament?"

As the children retrieved the toys and ornament, Elizabeth explained, "Nathan gave this to Jack and it became his favorite toy for years. Jack even carried it to bed! The smaller, more refined versions are sized to fit Jack's electric train set which is currently set-up at the apartment."

Elizabeth gave Nathan a loving glance. "The cardinal has special meaning for Nathan and me as the red one, on the shelf over there, was a tree ornament we hung on Nathan's and Allie's first Christmas tree in Hope Valley. We had gone together to choose a tree and I stayed to help them decorate." Elizabeth paused, "Nathan carved the female bird for me this Christmas. The cardinal always reminded me of Nathan as a red-clad and protective Mountie and a loyal, dependable man and father, providing for and raising Allie." Elizabeth patted Nathan's arm as they got lost in each other's gaze.

Jared kept Allie in his admiring view, while Josiah and Johanna smiled at each other.

"These are all lovely, Nathan. You have a gift. Actually, you have a few gifts!" Johanna offered a well-deserved compliment.

Dipping his head, Nathan replied, "Just keeping busy I guess."

"Busy using your gifts, my friend. Jared? Maybe you should tell the Sergeant how you were impacted by one of his poems over these past few weeks?" Seeing his son's face flush, Josiah continued, "I believe it would encourage him and you can get used to sharing how God is leading you. Go ahead, Son."

Realizing he had everyone's attention and turning to face Nathan, Jared wrapped his arms around his knees and took a breath before he began to explain.

"When I first heard your poem 'The Journey to Bethlehem,' I pictured the scenes and was impressed with a few thoughts. I have since read and re-read that poem many times, even memorized some of it. The realization that I will be leaving my home and family to embark on a new path, choosing to trust God for my part in fulfilling God's plans while knowing God is with me as I face future decisions became very real."

Jared glanced as his parents before continuing, "College is just around the corner for me and, up until I heard that poem, I was planning on pursuing my interests in literature with a goal of Library Science. But the words 'Transforming the cost of sacrifice into the joy of giving and the routine into treasured moments' changed that for me. I want to make a difference, to help people understand that cost in their own lives, as well as when contemplating Mary and Joseph. Even more I want to help people realize ways to find treasured moments in every day, you know? I suppose I could do that by writing, but I'm too young right now. I think God may be directing me towards the ministry, although I am also too young for that right now."

"Well, ministry is a noble calling and profession, although studying literature and the classics is still good preparation for sermon preparation!" Nathan spoke thoughtfully, "I knew a pastor in one of the cities where we lived who got his degree in Literature and found it helpful to round out his sermons with occasional references to the classics. We can still learn from those who have gone before us. Maybe you should be sure you keep up with your Latin to read some classics, and then you'll study Hebrew and Greek in Seminary. I will pray that the Lord makes His paths known to you, Jared."

"Thank you, Sir. I appreciate that. Please tell me any other recommendations you have?"

Glancing at Josiah, Nathan commented, "I am sure your parents are giving you wise advice."

Josiah spoke up, "This is really new, Nathan, so any input you can share could be helpful."

"There is something, well two things. First, have you met with Reverend Huntley at church? He might have wise counsel and might even be willing to mentor you. Also, talk with Chaplain Morgan at Depot."

Elizabeth interjected, "You know one of my students wanted to quit school and become a Mountie. I asked Nathan if he would talk to this lad and let him shadow him for a day or two and it was invaluable. Robert was too young and immature at the time, but he spent a couple days with Nathan, and saw the responsibilities, joys and challenges of being a Mountie. After completing his studies in Hope Valley and working as a postal carrier for another year, he was better prepared to join. He is currently a Cadet at Depot."

"He was too young, but he was definitely teachable and heeded my advice. So talking to mature pastors might give you insights and even direct your studies, Jared." Nathan concluded by thoughtfully adding, "Finally, this is something we all can do to change 'the routine into treasured moments.' Practice giving thanks every day."

"Look for things around you, things in nature, in relationships, in God's gifts to you and others… Sometimes a thank you to God can be for His creation of color, or clouds or a favorite flavor or in our ability to see and hear, or the dexterity of our fingers… This is a way for our eyes to be opened to God's goodness and blessings, and to truly be blessed if we practice daily thanksgiving." Nathan quieted then raised his hand, adding, "I would also suggest you begin a practice of writing some of those thanksgivings in a journal every night. I've done that many times and I believe Allie has as well."

Josiah shook his head in agreement, "Great recommendations, Nathan. Thanks for your input into our son."

"Yes, Sir." Jared responded, "Thank you. You've given me some things to consider."

Jared and Ellie looked at their friend Allie with greater appreciation.

"You're welcome," Nathan concluded. "Remember though we are all always learning."

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Dinner was delicious and after the dishware and the kitchen were cleaned, the family decided to gather for some singing since all of them were musically gifted.

Jared played the guitar and the families sang nursery rhymes for Jack, then folk songs, hymns, and popular love songs. Jared played well, but had to strictly control his facial expressions as he listened to Allie's sweet voice.

He and his father sang the duet from church while Allie and her father sang one of their recent duets. Nathan talked Jared and Ellie into performing their incredible rendition from the school concert and then got Elizabeth to sing a solo of an Irish lullaby she often sang to young Jack.

With promises for another get-together in a couple of weeks, the Blake's said their farewells to the Grants and offered to follow Elizabeth and a sleeping Jack back to the Hotel so Josiah could carry Jack upstairs. With a quick kiss for Nathan, a hug for Allie, and a promise to see each other in the morning, Elizabeth departed for her apartment.

Allie closed and locked the door, turning to her Dad. "That was really, nice, Dad. Thank you for having them over." She went to sit beside her father, taking the place that Elizabeth so often claimed lately. "Wasn't it interesting to hear about Jared's aspirations?"

"He is a fine young man, Allie-girl, and I can see the pastorate might fit him. We'll both have to pray for God to guide him, eh?" Squeezing his daughter's shoulders, Nathan added, "The Coulter's arrive tomorrow and I'm ready to call it a night, Honey. How about you?"

"Yes, I guess so," Allie reached up to kiss her father's cheek, "We've sure had a lot of family surrounding us since we moved away from Hope Valley, haven't we?"

"That we have! Never knew my heart could expand to include so many!"

Nathan was grateful to prepare for bed early since his shoulder pain sometimes prevented adequate rest. Nevertheless, he noticed the difference between the days immediately following the injury and today, so was thankful, although he was too tired to write that in his journal this evening. After getting his shoulder in a comfortable position, Nathan fell into a sweet, deep sleep while he was praying his thanks for his many blessings.

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Although Elizabeth had the use of Nathan's vehicle for the day and drove over to the cottage in the morning to see Nathan and prepare lunch and their evening meal, she was grateful that Hudson volunteered to take Jack and her to meet the Coulters on the afternoon train.

"They're over there!" Jack exclaimed excitedly from the vantage point of Hudson's arms. "Over there!" He pointed decisively.

"Auntie Rosie, Uncle Lee, Patrick…" Jack shouted, waving his arms and drawing the attention of the arrivals.

Rosemary cried as she ran into Elizabeth's open arms, quickly followed by her menfolk. "Oh Elizabeth! You are a sight for sore eyes. Love looks good on you!" Hugging her best friend again, she concluded, "I have missed you so much! I know it hasn't been that long, but so much has transpired that it feels like a lifetime."

Lee let go of Patrick's hand and watched as the two young boys hugged and began to talk about trains as if no time had passed at all. He looked at Hudson and extended his hand. "Thank you for coming for us, my friend! We are so sorry to hear about Nathan being out of commission. How is he today?"

"I only saw him briefly when I picked-up Elizabeth and Jack," Hudson explained, "but from what I hear he is improving every day. I think he's been gifted another couple of days off, although I believe he has mixed feelings about that. He may be able to ride in a car tomorrow according to his doctor, who is a friend and sergeant from the Academy. Let me help you collect your luggage?"

Lee turned to give Elizabeth a strong hug, then advised the ladies to watch the boys while he assisted Hudson.

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"Wow! Everything is big… and fast and… wow!" Patrick's face was pressed against the side window as he took in the sites of the largest city he had ever encountered.

"I guess. To me it's the same as where Grandmommy and Grandaddy live. They live here now too and you'll have to come see their 'partment and look out the windows. You are really up high and you see everything like a bird sees. It's neat!" Jack was looking forward to introducing his friend to his new life as much as to see him again.

"The town is bustling more than I expected!" Rosemary exclaimed. "Of course I didn't know what to expect, but at least you told me about the Hotel and the stores and a few things. There are a lot of trolley cars though and I am not used to that. I guess I have been in Hope Valley, Benson Hills and even Union City for too long!" Rosemary laughed and clutched her throat dramatically.

"We are taking you to the apartments first, to unload and settle-in. Then we'll go to the Cottage for our dinner and the evening with Nathan and Allie. They are so thrilled to see you!" Elizabeth explained. "We are receiving wonderful meals from people at church every other day, so tonight the'll have the remains of last night's dinner, plus a shepherd's pie I already prepared."

As they pulled into the parking spot at the Hotel, Elizabeth inquired, "are you hungry for a snack before we go over or okay to wait for some cookies and tea at Nathan's? We'll plan our itinerary tonight since we still have to give Nathan time to rest and nap, although he will deny the need for it I am sure. Please help me help him, okay?"

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"Hello Grace! Hello William! How wonderful to see you again, and thank you for allowing us the privilege of staying here in these apartments!" Lee extended his hand, but was quickly engulfed in a hug from both of the Thatchers.

"It is our pleasure and how wonderful to see familiar faces from Hope Valley!" Grace offered. "Rosemary? Welcome to Regina and to our new home! I confess we are challenged to know what 'home' we are referring to sometimes, but I must admit, being with Elizabeth, Jack, and the Grants is always our true home!"

"Come in! Come in! Let me direct you to your room in Elizabeth's apartment. They are connected to us which is wonderful. Follow me!" William motioned for Lee to follow him while Hudson brought up the rear.

"This is lovely! My goodness. These apartments are furnished, correct?" Lee admired the rooms.

"They are which is a huge relief to us! Now, do you want to stay for a cup of tea, or get right to Nathan's and Allie's?"

Observing Rosemary and Elizabeth touring the Thatcher's apartment and Jack and Patrick heading from the window to Jack's train set-up, Lee stated, "We decided to head right over to the Grants. Maybe we can share breakfast with you folks in the morning? I assume we'll attend church together? Will Nathan join us or does he need time for a nap before we descend on him again!"

"I don't know about church for him, but Nathan will welcome your company, Lee. I think he has been feeling rather confined this past week," William explained, "It was necessary and he has benefited from the rest and extra sleep, but not going out has been a true struggle for our Mountie!"

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"Oh Lee! Isn't this wonderful? It reminds me of the apartment buildings in New York City, only newer and far cleaner!" Rosemary extolled, "Beautiful, Grace. Thank you for the tour. Now may I see your apartment, Elizabeth?"

Rosemary glanced around Elizabeth's rooms, observing, "It is the same arrangement but a different color scheme. You are in the lap of luxury, my friend!"

"Yes, here in the Hotel we are, so I am grateful that Father planned ahead for all of us! Wait until you see how charming Nathan's place is though. The main house is under construction still, but we will tour it in daylight. Maybe tomorrow afternoon? It is fun to check on the progress every few days!"

After showing the Coulter's the apartments, the group departed for Nathan's home and 'ooohed' and 'aaahed' when they pulled onto the Collins's property.

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"Elizabeth! This is enormous. All that is one house?"

"Indeed it is! But it is all one floor, so it may be deceiving. This here is Nathan's cottage. Isn't it cute?"

"I like it. Maybe they should make some decorative upgrades in Hope Valley. I can take some ideas back with me. Nevertheless, I just got here, so no more talk of our return yet!" Rosemary laughed lightly.

Opening the door, Elizabeth let the boys in first, then motioned for her friends to enter.

"Oh Nathan! My dear brother! How are you? Oh, don't get up! I can hug you right there," Leaning over, Rosemary hugged Nathan's neck then planted a kiss on his cheek.

"Nathan, Brother, it is good to see you for ourselves," Lee continued to speak as he leaned over to hug Nathan as best he could. "None too worse for wear, although I'm guessing that sling is a constant reminder of your limitations. Are you in pain?"

"If I keep to the regularly scheduled pain medications, I can manage the pain. Movement still hurts though so I am careful. Please have a seat? We'll let Allie give you a tour as that is her favorite responsibility. She should be back in about a half hour." Nathan leaned back as Elizabeth leaned over the sofa to kiss his cheek, "Honey? Carol brought a basket of goodies for us to snack on and is bringing brownies with her for our dessert tonight."

"Oh really? Maybe she was keeping herself busy after Peter departed. I'll make some tea! Rosie, you may join me if you wish?"

Nathan explained as Lee sat beside the fireplace. "The Commissioner departed on the late morning train for Ottawa since Headquarters is now located there. Carol, his wife, is remaining until the renovations are completed. Peter will return for Zachary's graduation and our wedding, then they will both return to Ottawa for a while."

"May I stoke the fire, Nathan?" Lee questioned as he rubbed his arms, explaining, "As the sun sets I feel the chill more keenly!"

"Yes, please. Actually, would you mind reloading the basket of firewood from outside the kitchen door? I am unable to lift and I don't want Allie or Elizabeth to have to do that for me." Nathan pointed to the basket after Lee stirred the logs and added a fresh one.

"No problem, Nathan. Let me know if there is anything else you need while we are here, okay?"

"Thank you, my friend. Being dependent on others, doesn't sit well with me, but I am trying to learn," Nathan shook his head and chuckled low.

"I have a meeting Monday morning, Nathan, but will gladly assist later with whatever you need. Thank you, by the way, for allowing me to use your vehicle while we are here. It works out well and I will happily chauffer Elizabeth and Allie as needed. Plus we want to be sure these two lads have lots of time together!"

"Daddy! Can you read Patrick and me a story?" Jack looked up from his Lincoln Logs, pleading.

"Not now, Son. Maybe before bedtime, eh? We have a lot of book readers around right now!"

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Distracting herself after Peter departed for the train in the morning, Carol Collins had prepared fresh scones, a batch of cookies and a pan of brownies for tonight's dessert!

As she unpacked the basket while the kettle boiled, Elizabeth explained to Rosemary how sweet Carol had been to all of them and shared that Carol would be joining them for dinner this evening since it was her first night without her husband. "We are so sorry that Peter and Carol are moving to Ottawa, except the main house wouldn't be available to us if they were staying!"

Rosemary collected the boiling water and filled the teapot that Elizabeth had prepared earlier. A tray of tea cups, saucers, spoons and napkins was ready to add the plate of cookies and they brought the goodies to the coffee table, setting it in front of Nathan. No sooner had they begun to enjoy their snacks, Allie excitedly burst through the front door.

"Aunt Rosie! Uncle Lee!" She wrapped them in hugs then turned to see a little boy kneeling beside Jack and watching her intently. "Oh! Are you Patrick?"

"Allie, let me introduce you to our son, Patrick. Son? This is Allie Grant. Her father is Mountie Nathan here and she is going to be Mrs. T's daughter and Jack's sister in a few weeks."

Allie knelt to hug her brother and reached a hand to shake Patrick's.

Hesitating, he looked from his father to his mother, then at their nods, dropped his cookie into his napkin and shook this big girl's hand. Quietly he spoke, "Hello…"

"Patrick? My Dad and I used to live in Hope Valley and when we moved I couldn't bring all my toys so I gave some to Uncle Gabe. Well, you probably know him as Mountie Gabe, right? He said he was going to make sure Patrick received my toy dog. The brown one that rolls and you can pull it on a string! Was that you? Do you have my doggie?"

Eyes wide with recognition, Patrick immediately stood and engulfed Allie in a hug. "It's me! It's me! I have him at home," He whispered, "I'm sorry I didn't bring him to see you, but Mommy said I couldn't bring everything!"

"I'm so happy you are giving him a good home back in Hope Valley, Patrick! What did you name him?" Allie asked as she returned the little boy's hug.

"He's Cookie! Same as my real doggie. Mama always said he was the color of a Christmas cookie so it was a perfect name. Cookie is the same brown and I love him."

"That is a perfect name. Am I guessing that you like real cookies too?" Allie pointed to his abandoned cookie and grinned, "Is it good?"

Nodding their heads vigorously, both Patrick and Jack agreed, "You'll like 'em, Allie. Gramma Carol made 'em yummy!"

The Coulters observed Allie, noting how much more mature she was, yet how well she interacted with the little ones. Nodding to Nathan, Lee quietly commented, "She's a treasure, Nathan, and you've raised her well."

Looking adoringly to her fiancé, Elizabeth agreed, "You are correct on both accounts." She patted Nathan's good arm and they got lost in each other's gaze for a few moments.

"It does my heart good to see the two of you together! Oh, Elizabeth, I didn't even ask to see your ring!" Coming to bend over as Elizabeth raised her hand, Rosemary approved, "Stunning! Nathan, you chose well!"

"He designed it and had it made for me a few years ago," Elizabeth stated proudly.

"Oh really? Nathan!" Lee exclaimed, "You kept your secret well and I guess you acted in faith or something like that! Good job and I'm sure glad about how everything has turned out!"

"Thank you. We all are!" Nathan bent over Elizabeth and kissed the top of her head, adding, "Right, Honey?"

Rosemary and Lee glanced at each other, pure joy on their faces.

Looking from her aunt to her uncle, Allie grinned and noted, "You'll get used to them. It is very 'sweet' around here sometimes!"

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