Chapter 131
Amy sat back as her breakfast was delivered. She had ordered a farmer's omelette, home fries, sliced tomato and a toasted bagel. A second later Trish's breakfast and Meg Koenig's joined it on the dining table the flight attendants set up moments before. Both Trish and Meg shared a thermos of hot fresh coffee while Amy sipped a tall glass of orange juice.
"How do they do this ?" Trish asked.
Amy swallowed "You order before the flight, there's a kitchen in the facility. Not sure how they keep it hot and fresh like this but the food is always excellent. This bagel had to have been just toasted."
"We have toasters, grind and brew the coffee onboard, the plates come thermal packed and we have special cubbies that keep them hot, it's a good system." Francis, a very handsome attendant answered while filling their water glasses.
"Major, what do you think of our vegan french toast ?" Their passports all stated their honorifics and Trish flew as Retired Major and referred to as Major. Meg as Doctor and Amy as Professor.
"It's excellent Francis, my compliments to the chef."
"I'll make sure to put it in my notes, is there anything also I can get any of you for now ?"
With three nos Francis was off to another task while the three sat and ate, chitchatting about the week they had just spent together.
"You did good Amy."
Amy smiled back at Meg "I couldn't have done it without you two."
Trish laughed "well not really but we appreciate it."
"Seriously Trish, I really do value both your company and your thoughts. I think the house will look nice but the highlight of the trip for me was Lisa."
"What is it with you Albertans and hot water." Meg said laughing "she went on and on about it."
"I grew up in that house that sometimes had seven, maybe even 8 people living or staying there, certainly if you count a ranch hand or 2. We had one bathroom, a 30 gallon hot water tank, very little heat and hardly any insulation. We did it, we lived through it just fine and if we had to, and had no choice that would have been fine. The problem is, we didn't have to. There was never a time I remember when money was so tight we couldn't have bought an 80 gallon water heater. That doesn't mean we didn't have tight times but seriously, 8 people, one bathroom and very little hot water. I've seen better equipped dorms."
"Well, Fairfield is gorgeous."
"And no one in the family lives there or has lived there for years Trish. Why ? Who knows ?"
"So what's next Amy ?" Meg asked sitting back as their breakfast dishes were removed by one attendant while another wiped the table clean.
"Leave the table or ottomans ? We're about 4 hours out." Francis asked seeing their plates removed.
"Take it please, I'm putting my feet up." Amy answered as the attendant unsnapped the table and carefully folded and removed it from between them. Amy immediately swung her chair straight and leaned back as the cushioned ottoman slid out and under her raised feet.
"Amy ?"
"Next, right, sorry Meg, uhm, some alone time with the family, Nick and the jumping facility, thoroughbred plans and rescue schedules and then hopefully my ass in a chaise lounge by the pool for a few weeks. You're both invited."
"So when is that ?"
"Figure July 1 for a couple weeks, then home a little then back, like that."
"And the kids ? What about rescues ?" Trish asked.
"We talked about it, they're fine with normal rescues at the other house as long as there's a pool and sun. Jumping is another story and still under discussion and there's Bobby and the farm and Brin in the city I think or Rochester which is minimally better. Brin doesn't want to go to that place in Philly. We'll figure it out."
"And Ty ?"
"I don't know Meg, he'll come when he can and we'll be home every couple of weeks, that's what I've got. Maybe at one point he'll just take a couple weeks like a normal person. It's gonna be a learning experience."
"What time are we landing ?"
Amy yawned "About 3:00 not sure who's picking us up, it was still up in the air last text I got. I think I might close my eyes for a bit."
She woke what seemed like a couple hours later and found both Meg and Trish fast asleep. She stood and stretched for a minute before heading into the bathroom to refresh. She smiled when she turned toward her seat and found the attendant cleaning it and fluffing the pillow for her.
"Can I get you something Professor, we're a bit early about 40 minutes I'd say."
"Herbal tea would e nice."
"Raspberry, Mint, Ginger Peach, Chamo….."
She stopped him mid list "Ginger Peach sounds perfect and they'll have coffee. Three waters too I'd bet and some cookies ?"
"No problem, I'll set up a snack table in a few minutes."
"And I'll get them up."
10 minutes later both Trish and Meg were back to their snack which now included some small finger sandwiches served with their cookies on a tiered platter with one section marked Vegan.
Trish laughed "When I think of the Army and getting thrown a bologna sandwich on a cargo plane this is pretty luxurious."
"I'd say so Trish, I know you guys are vegan now but does the Army do that ?"
"Well, they do their best but the truth is in the field you do what you're told, sandwiches are like vaccines, you don't get a choice. Basically, if all they have is bologna, you eat bologna because you have to eat and you don't get hummus and cucumber sandwiches, these are awesome."
"Herbed cream cheese like substance and watercress." Amy said, "really good and they don't use teabags, they steep."
"Definitely worth every penny you guys are paying for these seats." Trish said laughing.
"I have no idea what this costs Trish, I assume Betty does, well someone does, just not me. I choose not to know, this and the helicopters, not a clue."
"You have to own part of the company right ?"
"It's definitely a shareholder cooperative, we bought in a few years ago, the helicopters are all part of the same deal, limo company too."
They sat while their passports and paperwork were checked and their bags wheeled into the lounge awaiting their pickup.
"Well, there's something you don't see every day. Charlie Rodgers doing an airport pickup." Meg said waving at him and getting a smile and a nod back.
"And standing in front of a Ram truck." Amy added waving as well.
Trish commented last "I guess there's a story there somewhere, Charlie's definitely got people to do that."
"Bert and Ty are in surgery is really what it came down too. John's in the shop, he had 4 bikes go down near Cortland that he had to pick up, the riders all seem to have survived well enough by the way, and Trev's in the city."
"Nice to see you Charlie, where's Bryce, he typically does this ?"
"No idea Amy and this is not that strange, picking up ribs at Dinosaur Barbecue is much weirder for me, thank god they have curbside pick-up."
"Betty ?" Amy asked.
"Sort of a unanimous decision, and we didn't forget the vegan stuff."
"So dinner at the ranch ?"
"Dinner at the ranch for you guys." Charlie confirmed as a baggage handler loaded their suitcases into the pickup.
"The surgery ?" Amy asked.
"From Saratoga, brought over for a break, showed up with internal bleeding. They're in for that and leaving the break for later."
"Poor thing, any word on how bad ?"
"Nope but they didn't wait, dove right in, Bert, Ty and the three seconds. Call Sarah, she caught it."
"Of course she did" Amy said pulling out her phone.
In a brief conversation with Sarah she learned a few things, the horse's official name was Hollyhock but was called Holly. She was a regular seasonal harness racer who did quite well and had a good reputation with wins in excess of 300,000 dollars. The owner knew she would never race again but wanted her out of pain and if possible able to foal.
He was fine with retiring the horse. She arrived with blood in her urine and feces and upon further examination was determined to have at least one internal bleed.
"You could see and smell the blood Amy, it was too heavy for my comfort so I called Bert, he and Ty went straight in. From what I saw on the monitor it's some muscle around her liver and I don't know if there's anything else at this point."
"What did I miss Charlie ?" Amy asked pulling a bottle of cold water out of her travel bag.
"They broke ground in Desert Springs and Dallas. We've got a schedule up for Massena and the Arizona and Montana ranch centers are taking patients."
"And John and Rachel will oversee the California and Texas sites ?"
"That's the agreement. I assume Ruth and Annabelle will handle Massena."
"Or at least keep an eye on things."
"Sounds like a pretty typical day." Trish sighed "Good to hear the bikers were Ok, I hate when he's out at a fatal accident."
"All checked out with minor injuries and probably at the shop driving John crazy."
"Well drop me home for a shower and change Charlie, Trish, pick me up for dinner."
"Sure thing Meg." Trish answered as they pulled up in front of Dinosaur and Charlie texted inside to let them know he was in delivery spot 2.
90 minutes later they pulled up to the ranch house passing the garage where the twins and Bryce seemed to be leaning over a truck engine on a temporary mount. She waved and got waves back. Betty and Robin were sitting on the porch and waved as well. By the time Amy had reached the top step Jackson came out the screen door and Amy had him on her lap moments later after she hugged both Robin and Betty.
"I assume you saw the girls on the way in ?"
"I did, didn't expect Bryce though."
"It was supposed to be Ty and Bryce volunteered when that horse went into surgery.״
"That was nice of him."
"By the way, nobody drives those things until they're all done."
"Everybody agrees ?"
"Betty's law." Robin said "she was very firm about that."
"Good enough for me. Jackson what are you up to ?"
"Nuthin', last week of school, chores done. I was gonna, you know work on the truck with Dad but he's in surgery paying for the trucks."
Amy smiled "well I'm sorry about that sweetheart, maybe you can help Chuck get done."
She nodded to Chuck and Charlie had just come out.
"Can I help Chuck ?"
"I was going to second Benny who wants the track harrowed, want to ride along ?"
"Oh sure, sounds like fun."
"Come on then, I don't want to be late for dinner and keep everyone waiting."
Chuck smiled and waved at Robin before turning and putting his arm around Jackson's shoulder as they walked away.
"He's so excited about the babies." Robin said watching them leave.
"He's always taken good care of JT, as much a big brother I could ever have hoped for."
Charlie nodded "he feels that way too."
Amy pushed herself up and stood "I have to change and see my horses, I'll be down soon."
She had texted Sarah and asked her to meet in the rescue barn in 45 minutes which would give her time to visit her herd in the family barn. Sarah joined her in family 15 minutes later.
"Hey Sugar ! How was the trip ?"
Amy laughed "not busy Sarah ?"
"Always busy but I missed you. How are the boys ?"
"Getting busier."
"I can imagine, Isabelle's doing just fine, she's got a clique she's happy with and they're happy to have her. Robin and Georgie have been riding her."
"I was just going to see her, haven't ridden her yet ?"
"No, leaving her to the younger folks, I visit with her everyday, don't I sweet girl ?" Sarah said as they reached her and she had a chance to see them and walked over as two hands reached up to rub her.
"Tell me about this horse in surgery Sarah, Hollyhock ?"
"She was coming in for the leg, 3 and a half 4 hour drive with the leg braced. She must have bled most of the way. This one's between the horse and god."
"And her chosen messengers."
"They've been in there a long time Amy."
"They wouldn't stay in there if there wasn't hope Sarah."
"Then I'll keep praying."
Amy was just finishing up with Sarah when Georgie walked out of the surgical building and saw them sitting on a stack of bales.
"Georgie, all good ?" Amy asked not reaching out for a hug seeing Georgie in blue scrubs with a fair amount of blood.
"They're getting ready to close, the bleed didn't amount to what we thought it was and the horse was out so we closed her and did the leg. It wasn't pre-fit so that's where the time went."
"How bad ?"
"Clean breaks, two places and a massive amount of bruising, I don't think Valerian will cut it for a couple of days."
"Are they done ?" Sarah asked.
"Closing, I'm on first shift so I'm out to shower, change and eat, apparently there's a ton of barbecue. How was the trip and how are you ?"
"The trip was fine, we'll talk later, go shower and ask Betty to feed you."
Amy sat with Sarah for a few more minutes before she headed back to a quiet house, a bathroom and the library where she sat and sorted through her mail backlog.
By the time she was down to a short stack she needed to open Georgie popped in while heading through the house to the kitchen. "Busy ? You can keep me company while I eat."
"Not busy Georgie, just mail. Go on and I'll be in in a few minutes. Have you seen Betty ?"
"I texted, she should be down any minute, I'll start with coffee."
"Coffee, that sounds nice."
"Sorry, didn't mean to rub it in."
"Funny, I don't really miss it most days but a late spring afternoon like this and someone to share a cup with, that I miss."
"Well you can watch and smell."
Amy laughed "that'll be fine, Ty should be along soon, let me just clear this away."
She brought her iPad into the kitchen and found Betty opening packages for Georgie to choose from. When they settled at the table Amy showed pictures of Alberta, the barn and house she and Ty were building for the family, pictures of the updated ranch house and furniture she had ordered for the Canada house and the expected twins rooms for all three adding in Ithaca and the Adirondack home.
"Anything change with you ?"
"I guess it's because it's more familiar but I feel them much more, stretching, turning, it's nice but weird sometimes. Aside from that not really though I prefer sitting or laying than on my feet all day."
"When are you leaving ?"
"I'm shooting for around the first, Nick's here so I'm trying not to worry about the new facility too much, he's really got to be the one in charge. Mallory and Jake should be here sometime in the first week and Nick's family so, should I wait or just go, not sure at this point."
"The kids are ready."
"I know Betty, how about you ?"
"Feet up in the sun ? Yeah, I'm ready."
"Maybe if I'm not ready you'll take them up with the horses ?"
"Just ours and maybe you and Meg can bring the rest ?"
"Works for me."
"There's my wife." Ty said walking around and wrapping his arms around her. His hair was still wet when he leaned over to kiss her and put his hand gently on her belly.
Amy smiled and sighed when he kissed and touched her. "I missed you husband, I hear you've been busy."
"Hungry Ty ? Sit and I'll make you a plate."
"Thanks Betty, I can wait, coffee would be great though. Georgie, take her temp every hour and check her urine and bowel movements for blood. She's on 24 hours of hourly checks."
"So no antibiotics ?"
"Not unless we get a temp spike, Bert thinks she should be fine, Sarah mixed up a high performance anti everything drink and mash when she feels like it. Keep her hydrated, you know the routine."
Georgie finished and pushed her plate away "I'm going to lay down for an hour, I'm on at 6."
"I or we'll stop in later Georgie, I haven't met her yet." Amy said reaching over for Georgie's kiss when she passed. "Dinner Gran ?"
Betty checked her watch "I told everyone 6:30 so about 90 minutes."
"So, how was Alberta Ames ?" Ty said sipping at his mug.
"Nice actually, you know, come upstairs and we can catch up in a comfy chair with my feet up, I can show you pictures of what I bought and you can tell me about your adventures with the kids. Betty ?"
"You two go ahead, I'm heading to the porch with a glass of wine."
"Send the girls up when they're done please, I haven't done more than wave at them. Enjoy your solitude."
"Thank you." Betty said grabbing a bottle, a goblet and a corkscrew. "I intend to, just leave the plate in the sink Georgie."
Ty headed straight for his chair and iPad to check on Holly while Amy headed to the bathroom. She grabbed a bottle of water and sat, pulled off her socks lifted her feet to the ottoman and sighed.
"You Ok Ames ?"
"I'm fine sweetheart but feet up feels better these days than feet down."
"Anything I can do ?"
Amy had her eyes closed, she smiled and reached out her hand which Ty took in his.
"How's the ranch house look ?"
"Not that different really, they did a real good job with the expansions, the logs and roof look pretty natural, like they've been there forever. The roof panels aren't much different than the metal roof, better looking of you ask me. Batteries are hidden, Grandpa didn't complain much."
"And Lisa ?"
"Lisa's in heaven as are Lou and Katie. Lou had them expand the bath and didn't tell Grandpa but he agreed it's nice."
"So the master bath ?"
"I sent pictures but she went all out, rose quartz and marble, huge soaking tub with a heater and whirlpool. Separate shower, bidet and commode behind a pocket door, two sinks and a glass wall by the tub with a skylight. It's really nice. The kitchen has granite counters, stainless appliances and the house is entirely temp controlled, unlimited hot water, I could actually move back."
"Really ?"
"Nah, but hey, I'd stay there if we weren't building our own house."
Ty laughed "you're spoiled."
"Yup and it doesn't bother me one bit. The girls seemed busy when I drove by."
"They've been obsessing about getting the new engines to communicate with the iPads. Apparently they've done it and they're trying to tune it using the electronics. We'll see, I want the engine checked the old fashioned way so we can see how well the electronics did. I owe Bryce one for this."
"I'm sure he loved it. How was Jackson ?"
"Same, they don't turn into monsters when you're not around you know."
She smiled, "I know, no boundary pushing ?"
"Nothing I couldn't handle." He said squeezing her hand a little.
"So we're smug pappa now ?"
"Not really, I still second guess everything."
"All parents Ty, we all second guess. I hate to ask but could you massage my neck ?"
"Of course, sitting or laying down."
"Sitting, it's harder to fall asleep and I'd like to make it to normal bedtime."
Ty smiled and walked behind her, he kissed her neck softly before she felt his fingers start to gently knead her neck muscles.
"Lean your neck forward Ames."
Amy complied and sat moaning and then sighing for a few minutes before she reached back and took his hand bringing it down to her belly "Baby 2 is making a play for space." She said laughing.
"He's really pushing there huh ?"
"Strongest I've felt I think, this whole pregnancy thing is getting interesting."
They both startled a bit when the knock came "Daughters" was the one word uttered.
"Come on in girls." Ty called out as the door opened.
Maddie laughed "what's going on here ?"
"I was getting a wonderful neck massage when your brothers decided to tussle. Come on, they're still at it."
"These are feet ?"
"I assume yes Charlie, there's no way to really know or at least I can't tell. Left is A and right is B, that's what I got."
"That's pretty cool mom."
"So sit and tell me about your week."
"Regents exams and then nothing really at school, next week even less. We've been working on the trucks and getting the bikes tuned even though most of us can't ride."
Maddie sat back "time for the pool."
"It's full by the way, pool company starting next week, Jonathan texted about the heater, I told him not to bother for now, we're going in July we can decide then, apparently it takes like 24 to 72 hours to heat the thing."
"We're working the timing out Mad; Mallory and Claire and her kids are coming the first week in July so you might go up with Gran and then I'll join you with whomever, I don't know. You can go with JT to the Cornell pool tomorrow though, I'm sure the coach won't have a problem, I think in the competition pool you need one piece suits though."
"So, what is that, just the bottoms ?"
They all laughed at Charlie's comment and Amy continued "It's for the teams and they don't wear two piece suits."
Ty's expression changed "Oh, I forgot, eight shelter rescues coming in tomorrow, early afternoon. They seem in fairly good health, we could probably fatten them up and send them to the other house for you girls to deal with."
Maddie nodded "we can do those, we're almost done figuring out the engines so we're dead in the water until the body shop's done and the trucks are put back together."
"That's a few weeks work for sure." Ty added. "We'll figure the summer schedule out once we get all the dates together and let the shop know when we leave so they can work."
They all looked over at the sound of Jackson heading up the stairs. It wasn't hard to know it was him since he was the only only member of the household who could run up the stairs as fast he could run down.
"Oh, hey, you're all here, cool." He said walking in then stopping and looking at the open door wondering if he needed to knock."
Ty laughed "it's Ok Jackson, you're usually pretty good walking into a room with an open door and a crowd already inside."
JT smiled and went straight to Amy who sat up and pulled him between her legs for a hug. "Racetrack all harrowed ?"
"Twice."
"Twice ?" Amy asked "why twice ?"
Well, Bryce came by, I guess when he was done with Maddie and Charlie and I sorta asked if he wanted to race so him and Benny and me and Chuck and then we had to harrow again cause of the big trenches."
They all laughed but it was Amy who turned serious first "And did my sons acquit themselves well ?"
"What's acquit ?" JT asked.
Maddie laughed "Did you win Jax ?"
"Oh yeah, we were pretty close but Benny was laughing too much and sort of swerved so …."
"Well Ok then."
"Uhm, Gran said the girls should come down soon to help set up the table."
"We should wash up and change then." Charlie asked "dresses ?"
"Dresses are always nice but it's barbecue so not so fancy." Amy answered "and you ?" She asked Jackson.
"I gotta shower, I'll dress for ribs."
"Start off clean JT, go on." Ty said laughing "last person close the door on your way out please."
The door closed and Ty immediately reached down and around Amy, dropping his head down and kissing at her exposed neck. "Now, where were we ?"
Amy sighed and giggled pulling her head away "we were not there Ty, get washed and dressed for dinner please."
Ty laughed and kissed her one more time "I guess I'll dress for ribs then."
Amy laughed as well and she grabbed the chair arms to help her stand "Just start off clean sweetheart."
By the time Amy and Ty came downstairs everyone but the girls were on the porch.
"All outside mom, we'll be ready for the hot stuff in a few minutes."
"I'll let Gran know Charlie, the table looks pretty."
She smiled as they went by and out to the front. Chuck and Robin were the first group they came upon. They were standing across from Betty, Charlie and Wyatt who were sitting.
"Georgie get off Ok Wyatt ?"
"She's in medical now, Barb and Kate just drove off."
"Ty and I'll stop over after dinner and you ?"
"I actually think I'm heading back to Alberta next week, Mitch and my mom would love a getaway and I volunteered to stay with Brick. I also have a couple CPS meetings with Scott and Haddie so combining the two won't be bad, I'll stay in the loft with Brick. Lisa said she was fine keeping an eye on him and Katie while I'm out."
"I thought Katie was coming here for the summer."
"She's coming back with me actually."
Amy nodded "Betty, the girls are almost ready."
"Foods in the oven, just say the word."
"Let me just step down here and we'll head in."
They moved on to the second group with included Meg and Bert sitting with Trev, Stephanie, John and Trish.
"When are we heading to the pool Amy ?" Stephanie said leaning forward for a kiss.
"Good to see you back Steph, still working out the details, sometime during the first week in July, we have people coming in, logistics. I think we're ready to eat."
As the group stood the Potter Suburban pulled up and Brin, Bobby, April and Cars got out. Amy smiled at Erma who waved as Amy made her way to the stairs and down to the truck. She watched Brin open the ack door and reach in and a moment later stood holding Kimmie who was hugging her.
"You sure this is Ok Amy ?"
"It's fine, you guys deserve an evening out, we'll watch out for the kids."
Erma smiled "you're an angel how are you feeling?"
I'm doing good Erma, I'm ready for the pool."
"I can imagine, if I don't see you later breakfast at my place in the morning ?"
"I'll be there, Sally ? Meg ?"
"Sally for sure, Meg needs to wake up in time."
Amy nodded "I'd better get inside, you picking up ?"
"We're picking Sally and Tom up for dinner so it'll be a full load later I think."
Amy smiled and waved as Erma backed up and Amy found the last of the dinner group going through the door and was last in behind them.
Brin, Bobby and the twins took charge of Kimmie and Jax and his friends leaving Ty and Amy some freedom to eat with the adults.
"Have you seen the jumpers yet Amy ?" Bert asked.
"Talked to Nick but that's it. I'll drive over after breakfast tomorrow he's got 24 that came in yesterday, Sarah and Vi are dealing with bloodwork and supplements."
"Can we come, we should be done with chores and exercise by 10:00 ?"
Amy nodded at the question from across the room "I'll pick you up on the way back from Erma's Maddie, Nick may need you two anyway, we're not fully staffed until July 1 and they all have to be evaluated."
"I can come too." Ty said "we're doing rounds early so Georgie can be with us, I think we'll be done by 10."
"Me too !"
"Of course JT, you can help the girls until we go." Amy said.
"And then we have the pool in the afternoon."
She smiled "and then we have the pool in the afternoon."
"How about an afternoon for us ? Lunch ? Facial ?" Stephanie called out from where she was sitting with Trish and Meg.
Amy smiled, there was nothing she's enjoy more that a pampered afternoon just sitting and shooting the breeze. "How's Thursday, I have an appointment with Miriam at 11 and promised I'd stop at the office. Say 1 o'clock ?"
"Trish ?" Meg asked.
"I should be able to get the afternoon, Molly's coming for a few days though not sure when."
"Molly's definitely not a problem Trish. Then it's settled ?"
"It's settled." Amy said "Betty ? Is there dessert ?"
"There's dessert if I get a facial."
"I'm sorry Gran of course you're invited."
Dinner was late and went later than normal. Having travelled in the morning Amy begged off a gathering in the master bedroom. Even without her decision the kids were all tired and went straight to get ready for bed. Ty made the good night rounds and got back to find Amy under the shower.
"Mind some company ?"
"If you promise to wash my legs and back."
Ty laughed "it's what I live for."
They settled in bed as they usually did these days with Amy on her side and Ty snuggled up behind her with his arm over her waist and his hand resting on her belly.
"You must be tired."
"Not too bad, the shower was nice."
Ty smiled "which part ?"
Amy giggled "all the parts, your parts in particular."
"You know I was actually hoping to take you to lunch after the obstetrician visit, sort of a celebration, 20 weeks."
"Oh Ty, I'm sorry, I could cancel."
"No, it's fine, you feeling Ok ?"
"Yeah, I just like to complain. I've been thinking about names, that's probably a nesting thing."
"What have you come up with ?"
"Well, you sure you don't want a Tyler ?"
"Or a Brad or a Wade, I'm sure, what have you come up with."
"Samuel Bartlett Borden."
"I like that, Sam or Bart would work and ?"
"Mitchell James Borden."
"For Betty, that's nice."
"And the James can be covertly shared if you can live with that."
"James was my mom's dad by the way, I checked for Jackson, he asked."
"I'm sure she'll like that then, and Tyler ?"
"Dad chose it, for no reason that she or I know or knew, he just liked it, Ty for short."
"My great grandfather, grandpa's dad was Jefferson and I think his dad was Samuel also but I'm not sure."
"Both would be great."
"Grandpa and his dad had a falling out and I think he turned into a drunk. Samuel was named after the original settler of Heartland who was also Samuel Bartlett. There was also a Finnamore, and I like the name Finn. I think maybe Grandpa's uncle but I'm not sure."
"So let's say we have working names."
"Ok, Samuel Bartlett and Mitchell James."
"This is a secret right ?"
"Until we officially name them and then eventually we'll have a huge ceremony at Heartland I guess, a lot of stones to choose and I guess one for you Pappa."
"Ty, still with us." She asked after his silence stretched on a minute.
"Uh, yeah, never thought I'd get a stone."
"Georgie tells me Lisa and Peter got one a few years ago."
"Your dad doesn't have one."
"My dad ? Really ? Wow, that's just wrong on so many levels, I mean Shane has a stone, what's Grandpa thinking."
"That he doesn't like your dad."
"They'd be lost without each other."
"I don't think so Amy."
"Definitely, Ty they've been riding, rodeoing and cowboying together for almost 40 years with those 15 in the middle unfortunately, but still, that's a hell of a bond."
"They don't show it."
Amy laughed "they definitely show it, they argue like an old married couple."
"He did come in for Jack's procedure, I didn't expect him."
Amy yawned and lowered her voice, "I knew he'd be there, I'm losing it my love."
"Go to sleep Ames, long day tomorrow I think."
"Are there short days ?"
"They'll be shorter at the pool."
"Thank you for buying us a pool Ty."
Ty laughed "I'm not but I'm glad we bought it."
"Next year we'll have babies in the pool."
"Sleep Ames, I love you."
"I love you too sweetheart."
Amy slept in Thursday morning, Betty and Ty got the kids off for their penultimate day of school. Two mandatory hours to fulfill state requirements before the bus would drop them off. They had their own horses to be dealt with before heading off to spell Georgie at the jumping facility.
As promised the Sunday morning before Amy stopped at the house after breakfast at Erma's house. It was great spending a couple hours just hanging out and catching up. Summer was everyone's most busy time including Meg who, while not a farmer took on the task of giving music lessons and accompanying students getting ready for late auditions or a head start on their next term.
At about 11:00 they drove over to the jumping facility which was now filled with a different aroma than Amy experienced a couple of weeks before, horses were mingled with new wood, she loved it.
For now the 24 horses took up two sections of 12 stalls on the side of the main jumping arena.
Seeing a jumper and rider making the rounds in the arena Amy thought for a second. "Let's not waltz in like a gang, give me a few minutes with Nick, why don't you all say hi to the new horses."
"Come on crew." Ty took up. "Let's give mom a few minutes."
Amy stood at the doors for a minute watching the horse and it's rider. As they made wide turn not far from her Nick noticed her standing there and put his hand up as the jumper team made what was evidently it's last jump and pulled up.
"That's good Jill, how about a break ?"
Amy saw the rider nod and come down off the horse and immediately move around to check it's legs before walking him off through a far set of doors obviously more nearer to his stall than the doors where Amy stood.
"How's it going partner ?" Amy said as Nick leaned over to hug her and kiss both her cheeks.
"It's going, how are you doing and how was Alberta ?"
"Alberta was fine, sorry, yesterday ran away from me."
"Don't give it another thought, completely understandable but I'm glad you're here."
"What do you need ?"
"More jumpers just until the full crew comes on after the first."
The plan was to not keep competing horses for the first couple of years. They took on horses a year or two from competition stage with about half coming from thoroughbred owners retiring horses not good enough for the circuit but who showed promise as jumpers. The other half would be almost certainly warmbloods that they'd take on to complete their training.
"How many ?" Amy asked.
"2 at least, 3 would be better, a good experienced rider for evaluations and two to just keep them moving. Maybe two weeks so they can go over things with the new staff."
"My girls can keep them moving, they finish school Friday but it's end of the year so I think they'd love spending their afternoons here in the meantime and then you can have them full time for the second week. I have a competition jumper on staff, let me just make a call and talk to the girls."
"I'm going to grab a cup of coffee and touch base at home, say goodnight to my kids."
Amy nodded pulling out her phone "send my love to them and Claire."
Seeing Amy Ty and the family wandered over as Amy connected. "Hey Wyatt, how's she doing ?"
"Hey Amy, she's fine and in the shower. She napped on and off through her shift. We're heading out after on our first licensed ride with John and Trish and grab some lunch."
"I hate to do this then but could you all stop at the jumping facility on your way, I need to run something past Georgie, it won't take long."
"Can't wait to hear what's up, stopping won't be a problem. See you soon."
"Thanks Wyatt." Amy said hitting the disconnect and looking up at the girls. "Nick's short handed girls, we need you to jump for the next couple of weeks, just exercise and running them through their paces, he'll let you know what he needs."
The girls looked at each other for a second and Maddie was the one unconsciously suggested to respond "we're good, Sarah can look in on the hands and the rescues."
"I can help with the rescues."
"Thank you Jackson, I'll let Sarah know." Amy said smiling and reaching over to kiss his head.
"And Georgie ?" Ty asked.
"Georgie's way more experienced, Nick's still evaluating horses and we're exhausting the two early on board staff. She'll ride for him if she agrees."
"We don't have anything important coming in, she should be fine with it."
"I know Ty but this isn't her job, her job is to be your second, and with that does down time, no pressure, she needs to agree to this."
Nick came around the turn and saw the family. He smiled, girls, Jackson, Ty." He said putting out his hand. "There's a fresh pot in the office if you're interested."
Ty nodded "thanks Nick, sounds good, be right back."
"Girls, I really appreciate your helping out, I know it's not your job."
"Not a problem Nick, we love jumping." They said simultaneously.
"I am never going to get used to that but maybe there's a bright spot in all of this."
Ty laughed hearing the comment on his way back "And what would that be Nick ?"
"Maybe I'll learn to tell you two apart. Come on, I'll introduce you all to the horses, I can definitely tell them apart."
"Horses, my favorite part." Amy said walking over and slipping her arm around Nick's waist "show us your charges coach."
They heard the 4 Harleys pull up to the open doors and couldn't help but notice the shade John provided while they came through the door.
"The guy literally blocks out the sun." Nick said turning to the 4 walking in.
Amy laughed "you get used to it, sometimes it's kind of nice. Sorry guys" she said stopping to kiss and hug each or the bikers. "I just need to talk to Georgie for a minute."
"What's up ?" Georgie asked walking over to the first horse who leaned out to Georgie's approach. "Hey you, you're a cutie, aren't you."
"Want to jump him ?" Ty asked.
"Ty please, that's not what I had in mind, come with me Georgie." Amy said turning and walking towards the open doors to the jumping arena knowing Georgie would follow.
"I'm sorry to pull you away from your ride Georgie, we need a favor."
"I'm all ears, should Wyatt hear this ?"
"Not unless you want to talk with him about it after."
"Shoot boss."
Amy stepped over to one of the bleachers and sat down to explain the issue they were having and how Georgie could help.
"I'm game for sure but if an interesting surgery shows up."
"Anytime you need to be somewhere else we'll work through it, you have my word, so ?"
"Then I'll suck it up and jump warmbloods for a couple of weeks." Georgie answered smiling. "I'd love to, anytime actually."
"Thanks Georgie, so where you all headed ?"
"Ride around for a bit and then lunch, small celebration. We both passed with flying colors."
On Thursday Amy came down to Betty sitting at the table reading the local paper.
"Morning Gran" She said walking in and over to fix a cup of tea. While it steeped she grabbed a yogurt and a bowl of berries from the fridge and sat down.
"Good morning Amy, sleep well ?"
"I did, Ty ?"
"Morning rounds which he'll leave if they're not done, he said be ready for 10:45."
"You coming for the appointment ?"
"No, I'll meet you at the spa after lunch. Charlie said to give him a call if you're not coming in."
"From Miriam to the office to lunch to the spa with a walk through the barns after breakfast which is momentarily."
"Have a nice walk, I have coffee to sip and mail to sort."
Amy made her way slowly through her horses starting at the medical stalls in the surgical building and moving on to the medical barn, rescue and the family barns. Many of the stalls were empty as the horses had been let out into the meadows to fend for themselves. Ty found her leaning against the railing of one of the back meadows commonly used for the family horses. Both Spartan and Isabelle had both moved closer to her for her hellos before returning to their graze, side by side.
She knew he was behind her and smiled and snuggled closer to him as his arms wrapped around her and his hands rested on her ever growing belly "I heard you were on a solitary inspection, did we pass ?"
"With flying colors, I guess we should be going."
They walked back to the house arm in arm where the kids were having a snack. Amy wanted to touch base before disappearing for most of the day.
"Going to the doctor ?"
"We are Jackson and then dad will drop me at the office and then lunch. What about you, helping Chuck ?"
"Helping April and Cars with chores and going for a ride after."
"Sounds like a fun day and you two, heading over to jump ?"
Maddie swallowed her apple and smiled "Nick said it's fine if Brin and Bobby came over to get us out earlier."
"And then ?"
"And then a trail ride."
"Sounds like a nice day, all of you home by 5 to help get the horses in and mashed please. Jackson make sure you get your phone from Gran before you go."
"Bring pictures !"
"I will definitely get some pictures Jackson, Ty we should go."
"I'm just standing here waiting Ames."
Amy giggled "Ok, sorry."
Ty smiled and shook his head as Amy walked by him. She waited by the steps to take his hand down and across the grass to the garage.
An hour later they sat down across from Miriam, Amy's obstetrician. "So Amy, Frances tells me everything's where it's supposed to be and their growth and your weight have moved into solid normal for a twin birth." She was actually talking to her screen as parts of Amy's ultrasound were now passing before Miriam's eyes. "How are you feeling ?" She asked turning back to Amy.
"Uh, well, I'm not sure how to answer that, I feel fine I guess, I mean, I've never done this before."
"Good answer, neither have I, identical twins I mean, I called to check in with Dr. Dissick, if the name's familiar it's because he's the OB who delivered the girls. He specializes in twins and actually has delivered three sets of identical twins which basically makes him an expert."
"Is there a problem Miriam ?" Ty asked.
"Not medically, Amy and the boys are doing great but he thinks our timeline is off. Elizabeth is moving you to August as a favor to me, she'll call to confirm that with you and I'm having your delivery dates changed at the hospital to September 4 onward. We're hoping for a solid 35 weeks. Dr. Dissick doesn't think you'll make it to September 15 but that's definitely not chiseled in stone and he says it's really hit or miss. Your size is a small concern in this."
"We'll figure it out." Ty affirmed taking Amy's hand.
"September 4th, that's kind of early, almost 6 weeks. The girls were born at 37 weeks."
Miriam looked at Amy and nodded "expect a week or two in the NICU."
"Leave them at the hospital."
"It's not an alleyway Amy and for the most part it'll be mostly observation, possibly oxygen. You'll be able to feed them and sit with them most of the day, the kids and Betty can visit and we'll make it as short as possible."
Ty sighed "what if she makes it to 36 weeks ?"
"Let's start with shooting for 36 weeks, the closer she is to 36 weeks the shorter the time in the NICU if at all but we need to focus on a healthy delivery and the health of your boys. Full term for twins is 38 weeks"
"Then let's shoot for 38 weeks." Amy said.
"That goal may include bed rest."
Amy sighed "I can do bed rest."
Miriam smiled "that's the spirit, we'll do our best Amy."
"We can pretty much set up anything for the twins at home including 24 hour nursing care, oxygen if we need it."
"I know Ty, that may help getting them home sooner for sure but the NICU is best, again let's keep the goal in mind, healthy delivery and healthy boys."
"Should I be worried Miriam ?"
She smiled "If I told you no you'd worry anyway, you and the boys are doing great, all pregnant mothers worry Amy. You're extraordinarily healthy, you eat well and you get the added advantage of being able to take as much time as you need off not worrying about how you'll pay for twins so there's no reason to get all up over it. Dan and I are a phone call away, I'll see you in July and then twice in August and we'll firm everything up."
"You Ok Ames?" Ty asked as he slid behind the steering wheel, a moment later he moved his hand to take hers.
"Yeah, I knew, it's in all the books and on the forums, 38 weeks, NICU stays, 50 percent premature, one is often breach, c-sections, I know it all, just, hearing her say it makes it all, I don't know."
"More real, I guess I need to catch up on my reading, I was saving it for poolside."
Amy sighed and took a deep breath "take me to the office Ty, I need to spend some time with Bridgette and apparently Charlie wants a word."
"You need me to stay ? I could text Bert."
"I'm not even sure what this is all about. Bridgette's probably just signatures that have been piling up and who knows with Charlie. Go meet Bert and I'll fill you in later."
She started off with Bridgette, as Amy had thought, there were cash transfers to projects, quarterly taxes and various corporate happenings that needed her signature. At this point Ty's would have worked as well but Bridgette was used to working with Amy and with Charlie's request for a quick meet the call went out to her.
"He's in the conference room Amy, I'll let him know you're on your way back."
"Thanks Bridge, think you can scrounge up an herbal tea for me ?"
"Not a problem and he came in with a box of something."
"I'm heading to lunch, probably not a good idea."
"So nibble and skip an app later."
"Always works." Amy said grabbing her hat and walking towards the back and around to the conference room.
As always Amy did not knock and found Charlie sitting at his computer.
"Good afternoon Charlie."
"Hello Amy, how are you feeling, well, you and the boys ?"
Amy laughed "we're all fine Charlie and you and your brood ?"
"All good and Diane is pregnant so it seems I'll be a grandpa."
"That's wonderful Charlie, I'm sure you're all thrilled, any details ?"
"December is the only detail I have aside from her health which is excellent."
"Going to visit ?"
"Actually, her family's heading to Manhattan in a few weeks, so I'll wait for that."
"Feel free to invite them up to the Adirondack house for a rest."
"Thank you Amy, I will certainly do that."
Amy smiled at Bridgette who stepped in, put a mug down in front of Amy and turned to leave "Thanks Bridge, what are we here for Charlie ?"
"Ah yes, well the paperwork and the Massena Pegasus site. They'll have the architect and conservation plans in a few weeks and the Spelts would like to walk the property with you and whomever before its' final approval. They want to drop a shovel for foundations on August 1 and to start prepping for Annabelle's work."
"So….." Amy thought for a second "Ty and I could say go up one afternoon from the Speculator, stay over two nights, spent the one day up there touring and go over plans and then come home the net morning."
"That would probably be fine though I'm sure Ruth would insist on your staying with her."
"I'm Ok with that, I'll check with Ty and Sandra and call Ruth, how'd I do budget wise this month ?"
He laughed "I'll let you now when you're going overboard and I have noticed the lack of art in Alberta."
"Well, art takes time and I couldn't stay for weeks."
"Take your time, have you looked at the condos in town ?"
"I really haven't except for a drive by, I did like that house though."
"Have Tom and Trev take a walk through ?"
"That would be great, it's a realtor right ?"
"Ithaca Realty actually."
"I'll arrange a walk through next week. I don't want to keep it empty for two years though."
"Look first then we'll worry."
Amy's phone chirped and she looked down. "They're gathering, come on, drop me at Mix."
Charlie laughed "My pleasure."
"Sorry Charlie I hate to make you my driver, Meg or Steph would come but a Porsche or Astin are a pain in the ass these days and Trish is on the bike, I'm so happy we got the Jag."
"And that I have a sedan, it's fine Amy, just give me a few minutes to shut down."
Amy lay back in the chair and settled snuggly into her robe. Her face was covered in an avocado mask while a nail technician worked on her toes.
"You awake ?"
"Yes I'm awake."
"You sure ?"
Amy giggled "What kind of question is that Trish ?"
"An I'm not thinking question, your hair looks good. Did you get your legs done ?"
"I did, I also ordered a shower chair fro Amazon."
"I had one of those."
"How do you think the other three are doing ?"
"Second bottle of champagne for sure so I'd say they were doing Ok."
Trish smiled even though Amy wouldn't see, the group had split up for a time with Steph, Meg and Betty opting for massages while Amy and Trish went for hair, toes and facials. They'd be joined again for manicures. Trish and Amy would be off for blowouts while the other three had their facials and pedicures.
"Molly's coming to stay with us the first week in September, I hoped earlier but her replacement in Manhattan can't. She starts in Syracuse on November 1 and takes over in the January term. She needs a house."
"You must be so happy to have her close Trish."
"It'll be nice to see her regularly, Tom's finding us a realtor."
"Let me know if I can help."
"Thanks Amy."
Betty ordered take-out Thai food from the spa and Amy and she picked it up on the way home. Neither was in the mood for cooking and though the girls would have handled it they had work at the jumping arena and knew they'd prefer that over the kitchen. Amy texted Georgie letting her know that she, Nick and Wyatt were invited to join them so that she could get a report of how things were working out.
They found Ty and Jackson on the floor of the library with a map of Northern and Central NY laid out along with several books and NYS guides. Betty said her hellos and left the three to talk.
"What's all this ?"
"Overnight float boat trip." Jackson added. "Dad said he thinks we can float down the Raquette River from Potsdam to Tupper Lake and stop along the way for camping, there's a lodge and everything."
"Just you two ?"
"And Cars if his folks say yes."
"Your dad is an angel, we've got Thai for dinner and I'm going to change."
"You Ok Ames ?"
"I'm great Ty, Georgie, Wyatt and Nick are coming for dinner. Oh and Molly got that Syracuse job and is moving up in September."
"Trish must be thrilled."
"She is, I'll be down soon."
"Your hair looks nice mom."
"Thank you Jackson, it was sweet of you to notice."
"I noticed." Ty murmured.
"Beat ya though." Jackson said picking his hand up as best he could for a high five.
Amy laughed "Ok Jackson, high five on your way to the kitchen, get those bags to the counters please and no maps at the table."
She met Betty on the landing before heading down and the girls on their way up to get ready for dinner.
"Georgie's up at her place getting ready for dinner and Nick will drive over once he's done." Maddie said as the first one up the stairs.
Once downstairs they found Jackson and Ty busy getting the table set for dinner which was a nice surprise.
"Look at these two helpful gentlemen." Betty said approvingly, "I guess Amy and I'll get the food unpacked and warmed."
Amy laughed "they want permission to float Ty's raft thing down the Raquette
Ty stepped over and wrapped his arms around Amy drawing her closer to nibble at her neck "Can we go, pleaeeeeaaase ?"
Amy turned in his arms and reached up to kiss him lightly on the lips "May, not can Ty, it's may we go."
"And ?" Ty asked his eyebrows raised.
"Yes, you may go, during the week please, we'll have full houses over the weekends."
"Thanks."
"You don't have to thank me Ty, do not take your eyes off those two, especially the human otter."
"I promise."
She smiled "I trust you and you may thank me properly later."
Ty grinned and whispered "Spa and hormones, sounds like fun."
"You're adorable sometimes, you know that ?"
"I do actually."
"I love you Dr Borden, have I said that lately ?"
"Never often enough, I love you too Professor."
"Thanks mom, I love you too." Jackson said leaning in to hug her.
"You're welcome Jackson and both you and Carson will promise to do exactly as you're both told."
"I promise, will you ask Sally ?"
"I will talk to her and then I'm sure she'll talk to your dad. Get the door Jackson." She said as the knock came."
"Hey Uncle Nick !"
"Hey Jackson, how's school ?"
"Over tomorrow."
"Sounds good to me."
"Nick can I get you a drink ?"
"A beer would be great Ty, thanks."
"Betty, Amy, all good, feeling Ok Amy ?"
"Gran, is there more beer ? Ty asked pulling the last one out of the fridge."
"In the basement Ty, bring up a couple of 6 packs."
Jackson turned when a second knock came from the porch except that this time it was followed by Georgie and Wyatt walking in.
"Sorry if we've held tings up." Georgie said coming in.
"Not at all Georgie" Betty said opening the oven "the girls aren't down yet. I think Amy's in the library with Ty and Nick, beer in the fridge."
"Need help Gran ?" Georgie asked as Wyatt popped a local IPA and handed it to her.
"No, it's ready, just waiting on the girls to serve, how's it going over there ?" Betty asked nodding in the direction of the jumping facility.
"It's a nice change actually, they're all young and healthy. Truth is I miss jumping."
"Then you should take the time between school to jump and ride."
"I have a job Gran."
"It doesn't have to be all encompassing sweetheart, make the time."
"Make the time for what ?" Charlie asked popping in a second before Maddie.
"For Georgie to jump." Jackson answered while getting his cheeks kissed by the twins.
"Definitely Georgie, you're a great jumper."
"Thank you Maddie, the boss may have a different opinion."
"The boss loves you like crazy."
"Which boss are we talking about Charlie, your mom, Bert or Ty ?"
"All three but Gran's right, make the time, it's an indoor arena and the outside jumping rings have lights like the track. We can jump literally anytime."
Maddie added. "And we have a jumping ring set up at the other house."
Georgie smiled "Fine, I'll make the time."
"That's the ticket" Betty said "Jackson you fetch those three from the library, we're ready. Girls help me serve please. Georgie, Wyatt, we're in the dining room."
Amy and Ty hugged the girls, Georgie and Wyatt and sat as the girls and Betty stopped bringing food.
"Georgie, you're good working with Nick for the time being ?" Amy asked as platters of food made their way around the table.
Georgie nodded "I was just telling Betty that I miss it truthfully."
"Girls Ok ?"
They nodded but it was Jackson who spoke "I can help out around the stables, schools over and April and Cars have farm chores."
"I'm sure Chuck will be thrilled to have your help but don't forget to have fun." Ty said with a big smile and a glance at Amy who was smiling back.
"Come on Dad, it's taking care of horses and alpaca."
Amy laughed "and let's not forget the tractor races."
With Nick, Georgie and Wyatt over and no homework for the kids to deal with, the group moved to the library for some after dinner drinks and to wind down time rather than the family heading off to the master bedroom. As the yawns came they split up for the night with the kids heading straight off to their rooms and bed and their guests heading home.
Amy got herself as comfortable as possible and lay down reading an equine rehab water study from the University of Edinburg that Georgie had forwarded to her after describing it to her earlier in the evening. She also listened to Ty singing along to a song from the shower which made absorbing the paper's finer details a little tough.
She smiled and lay her iPad aside when Ty came out of the bathroom in a towel and walked over to the bed.
"Forget your PJ's again ?"
"Stop please."
"Stop what, you love when I watch you."
"I really don't."
"Then what's that ?"
"That is, oh fuck it, never mind." He said as he slipped under the blanket and hit the light switch before sliding over to her.
"Did you have a good day my love ?"
"Probably not as good as yours but I did, slow time of the year."
"Once the racing circuits heat up we'll get busier, June is pretty much more about family and gearing up for summer."
She made the effort to shift to her side so she could lay her head against his chest and feel Ty's hands wrap around her.
"How are the boys ?"
"I think they're asleep, they were a bit jumpy in the library, maybe the Thai food."
"I like your hair, how much did you cut ?"
"About 2 inches, amazing how much lighter it feels."
"You gonna keep it like that ?"
"We'll see after the boys come, maybe a little shorter."
They lay quietly for a few minutes. Ty kissed her head a few times and she sighed slipping her hand down his stomach.
He grinned though she couldn't see it "are we done talking ?"
Amy giggled when he exhaled "party time lover."
