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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 15:24:21 GMT -6
The next morning Hope and Cal were cleaning up after breakfast when Dawn and Ellen came in. Both with a grin on their faces. Cal thought their faces would crack. "Andy asked me to marry him!" Ellen announced.
Hope squealed and gave Ellen a hug. "When's the wedding?"
"We'll have the magistrate marry us. Neither of us want a blown-out wedding. We're looking at next Friday. Would you and Cal stand with us as witnesses?"
Amy piped up. "Are you going to have a baby too?"
Ellen blushed. Not right now sweet pea. It will be a while for that to take place."
"Cal, can we borrow the Suburban to go pick up some stuff to personalize the cabin?"
Hope answered immediately. "Yes, you can! As a matter of fact, I have a doctor's appointment this morning. You can take me in and WAIT. I want to find you a house-warming gift."
"That's fine" Ellen said. Bending down to Amy, she asked, "Hey! Wanna go shopping, Sweet Pea? Okay, let's go get you dressed!"
The girls took off on their all-girls shopping spree. Cal went back to the excavation and started moving pay dirt to the hopper. Using the shop vac, He cleaned the floor and started the sluice. After running everything through, he pulled the mats and rinsed them out in the tank. There looked to be quite a bit of gold there. He went ahead and ran everything through the separator and dried the gold. There was 767 ounces of gold in all. Cal started the pots to heating and readied the molds; each mold held 2 pounds or 29.16 troy ounces. Cal had to add a 7.29t oz he had left over from other castings to make an even 18 ingots. After removing the ingots from the molds, he laid them out to cool and went back to reposition the machine.
After setting up the machine and timer, he went back into the cabin and enjoyed a Smithwick's Ale. Because of the economy, gold prices were skyrocketing. Cal decided another trip to Denver was in order. There was a little over $6,000,000, not including his rainy-day stash. He wanted to trade half of it for coins, since the company also sold bullion coins from 1 oz to 1/10 of an oz.
When the girls got back, Cal informed Hope what he wanted to do. "With this baby pressing on my bladder the way he is, I would be more of a hindrance," Hope explained.
"Just as well" Cal said. "With this amount of gold, I should have a guard with me. I'll ask Jim to go. But I'll wait until the Monday after the wedding."
Cal called the gold buyer and let him know they'd be in on Monday. He would give him a call 15 minutes out so he could have guards waiting. The wedding went off without a hitch. Helen and Mary made a wedding cake, and they all christened their new home with wedding cake and champagne. After eating a piece of cake and giving them their wedding presents, they all beat a hasty retreat. No one saw Andy nor Ellen until Monday.
Jim and Cal finished loading the gold and filled their travel mugs with coffee. Cal grabbed a couple of bottles of water and they were on the road by 4:50 AM. After only one pitstop to use the restroom and swap drivers, they arrived at the buyers at 9:15 AM. Cal had called ahead so the guards were waiting. They loaded the gold onto a cart and went inside. After the gold was assayed, Cal was handed a check for half the amount. Two guards escorted them to the truck, carrying the coins. They were back home by 5:00 PM, tired, but thankful the job was done. Hurley sent the milk cow. Well, it turned out the cow was now Dawn's. She refused to let anyone else care for her. She even milked her every day. If she kept it up, her forearms would get as big as Popeye's. So, Cal called Hurley and he gave him the info for a small milking machine that would be just the right size. Hope, Helen and James were sitting at the table when Cal made the call.
Hope asked what that was all about.
Cal told them of his concerns about Dawn milking the cow all the time, so he was going to get her a small milking machine.
"You know, if we had the right equipment, we could make our own butter and pasteurize the milk" Helen said.
Cal looked at James and said, "Here's the info on the milking machine. You need to talk to our resident butter maker for the rest."
Hope got her laptop and Helen told her to go to the Lehman's website. They ordered 2 dozen quart milk bottles, home milk pasteurizer, cream separator, milk strainer with filters, non-electric and electric butter churns and butter molds. The electric churn they found on Amazon.
Leaning back, Hope grinned, "Well, that's done. But where can we process the milk? We don't have that much room in here."
Everyone looked at Cal. "Okay, I can have a dairy house built. We can also process the eggs there. We'll run electricity and water to it and put a large refrigerator in there and storage for supplies. I'll put in a large sink to wash equipment and a gas, tankless water heater."
Cal already envisioned where they could it put next to the barn. He called Sam and ordered a 12x16 foot log building with a door and two large windows. Sam said it could order it cut but, he already had a 16x18 building for only $200 more that was already on the yard. Cal told him he'd take it. Sam checked their schedule and said they could get started forming the foundation tomorrow. Cal told him that would be great and they hung up. "Well, I guess you ladies are in the milk and butter business." The dairy house was finished and Dawn loved it. One-gallon stainless steel cans were purchased from Lehman's. When the milk was strained, it was poured into the milk cans to allow the cream to rise. After the cream was skimmed off and placed in another milk can, the milk was pasteurized. When a gallon of cream was collected, butter would be made.
Today was butter day.
All the ladies gathered to see how it was done. Helen instructed on how to use both electric and non-electric churns. Once the butter was formed, the molds, having been soaking in cold water, were filled with butter and placed in the refrigerator to solidify. Each lady promised to help Dawn make butter and clean up.
It was a week before Thanksgiving, so the ladies sat down to plan the meal. They decided to use the main gathering room in the shelter for setting up folding tables. Even the meal could be cooked in the shelter if needed. The ladies divided up the food preparation among the families during their gab fest and decided on tablecloths and such. Cal stayed out of it. Someone would eventually tell him what to do.
Cal was sitting in the Family Room in the cabin when the ladies broke their little meeting up. Hope came in and sat on the couch with him. He wrapped his arms around her and said "I love you so much it hurts. My feelings for you can't be communicated by words, so you're going to have to listen to my heart."
Hope sighed and was silent for a moment. "I feel like I'm living in a fairytale. It's as if everything good in the cosmos came together and has surrounded us. When I saw you at Mary and Jim's in Tennessee, I thought my heart was going to explode. Since then, my heart beats only for you and our child. You are my life; you are the air that I breathe." They sat there for a while, just enjoying holding each other…until Amy burst in.
"Momma, where's the turkey?"
Hope chuckled. "Honey, we haven't gotten it from the store yet."
Looking at Cal she said. "Why don't you and I and Amy do a little grocery shopping?"
So, their little family took a ride into town to the Walmart Supercenter and picked up two 20-lb frozen turkeys, apples and pecans for pies and other things. They had to purchase another roasting pan because they only had one. Hope wanted to go over to Sprout's Market to pick up some specialty items. It was cold, so the food would keep in the Suburban if they had lunch at Frank's."
"Uncle Frank!" Amy yelled as we went through the door.
"Angelos!" Frank cried. How is my little angel today?"
Amy grinned. "I'm fine, but I'm also hungry."
"Well, we will have to fix that!" Frank grinned and led them over to their table. Sarah followed with a highchair. Amy picked up a menu and pretended to read it. It was upside down.
"And what would you like to have to day Miss Amy?" Sarah asked.
"I think I will have the chicken and French Fries today, Thank You!" Amy beamed.
Sarah took their orders and brought out the drinks and some placemats and crayons for Amy to color.
"Daddy, Papa Jonah said he was going to get me a pony, and he hasn't gotten it yet."
Hope snickered. "Well, Honey, he is waiting for warmer weather, so you have more time to play with your pony."
Amy nodded in understanding. "I guess that would be all right. It does get cold." She started coloring again.
As they were finishing their lunch, Frank brought over a young man and introduced him to the Colemans.
"Cal, I'd like you to meet this fine young man. Ben, this is Cal Coleman. Cal, this Dr. Ben Wiseman. Ben is a Trauma Surgeon over at St. Mary's and just arrived in our fair town."
Cal and Ben shook hands and Cal invited him to sit down. Sarah brought coffee and they began chatting.
"So, Ben where are you coming from?"
"I just finished my residency in Maryland. After a particularly crushing divorce, I decided to get as far away as I could. The nurse I'd married liked men a lot more than I did."
Hope glanced at Cal.
"That's too bad, been there, done that. So, you've decided to set up shop here?"
"Yeah, I'm working at the St. Mary's Hospital and renting an apartment while I look for a place out of town. I'm a little tired of city life."
Hope looked at Cal and raised her eyebrows.
They talked about a few more things and then got ready to leave.
"Ben, what are you doing for Thanksgiving?"
"I hadn't thought about it. I guess I'll find somewhere to get a turkey dinner and watch the games."
"Well, why don't you come out to our ranch and have dinner with us. We're feeding a few and you'd be more than welcome."
"Why thank you Cal, I'd be honored." He handed Cal a business card. "Just call me and let me know when and where
They said their good-byes and got into the Suburban.
Hope looked over at Cal and said, "I could see the wheels turning in your head. What have you got going on up there?"
"Probably the same thing you had on your mind," "Wouldn't it be nice to have a resident doctor on site if SHTF came around?" "Well, I would like to keep our children safe."
"Anyway, I was thinking of moving things out of the General Storeroom and turning it into a Medical Room. I could use his advice on how to equip it."
"We'll get with the others and talk about it."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 15:25:21 GMT -6
Everyone was busy the day before Thanksgiving. The guys and Cal set up tables and chairs, the girls busy with decorating the tables with theme tablecloths and holiday decorations. Pies were baked and Cal put the turkeys in the brine. The main food would be put on to cook in the morning. Cal called Ben and gave him directions and told him to be there at 12:00.
Ben was punctual. Cal met him on the porch and invited him in. They sat down in the Family Room in the cabin.
"So, have you found a place to buy yet?" Cal asked.
"Nothing yet. I've only had a couple of days to check with the real estate agents."
"Yeah, I can imagine you are staying busy."
Ben looked around. "You have a nice place here. This is kinda like I want to have."
"It's been a lot of work, but we're improving every day. You want to look around?"
"Sure, I'd love to."
Cal took him to the greenhouses, and he was amazed at what they were doing.
"You know, I dabble in Homeopathy and alternative therapies. I could give you a list of herbs you can use to treat a great deal of health problems."
"Ben, that would be great. As you see, Dawn and Ellen have a special area here for herbs. Any input you have would be greatly appreciated."
They went on to the hangar.
"Man!" "This must have cost a pretty penny."
"Well, actually, it cost me nothing." Cal gave him a brief version on how he obtained the hangar,
"That was you!?!" One of the doctors was telling me the story. You, sir, are the town hero!"
"Well, there wasn't much else I could do."
Cal took him to the barn and dairy house, then finally back to the cabin.
They settled down in the Family Room again.
"Cal, are you a prepper?"
"Why do you ask that? Cal replied.
"Well, from what I've seen, you are pretty self-sufficient here."
"Ben, I just want to make sure my friends and family would make it if times got bad. Good times don't last forever, and with the economy as it is and the troubles going around, I have a lot of work cut out to do, I'm building for long-term independent survival."
"I know what you mean. That's kind of why I want out of the city. I've got some food set aside, a one-year supply of Mountain House, but if things get bad in town, it's just me."
Cal gathered his thoughts for a moment. "Would you consider moving out here to the Ranch? You wouldn't own it, but I can build you a cabin. Electricity, water and gas are free. All you'd have to do is move in and become a member of what Jim calls the MAG, Mutual Assistance Group. Of course, Medical would be your main concern."
"Cal I'd like that. That would fit right in with what I've been wanting to do."
"Well, we have to take a vote, but I don't think there will be a problem."
Cal led him to the tunnel entrance and came out in the Gathering Room.
"Jesus!" Ben said.
"I'll explain later." Cal told him.
"COULD EVERYONE COME OUT HERE FOR A MINUTE?"
People started coming out of different rooms.
"I'd like everyone to meet Dr. Ben Wiseman. I've asked Ben to join here as a resident on the Ranch. I'd like to see a show of hands of those who disagree."
No one raised their hand.
Cal turned to Ben. "Welcome to High Top Ranch." The meal was delicious! There was plenty left over, and the leftovers were divided up and placed in containers, so each family had some to take home, even Ben got some.
While the women were taking care of the leftovers, Cal gave Ben a limited tour of the tunnel system. Ben was very enthusiastic. "Cal, looks like you have everything covered, except for NBC threats." Cal waved him over to a door and opened it and there was the overpressure and air handling system.
"This is the nuclear, biological, and chemical air filtration system. It draws air through an inlet pipe and forces it through a filter bank consisting of a pre-filter, a HEPA filter, and a carbon gas absorber, removing 100% of outside air particles. Then the air is blown into the protected space at a higher pressure than the outside air. This creates positive pressure (overpressure) in the protected space so that all air is flowing outward. This overpressure prevents any airborne toxins from entering the protected space. Everything is kind of open right now, but in case there is a warning, we can seal the doors and overpressure the living and storage areas. Even the gathering room has been epoxied in the inside. We also installed enough liquid oxygen tanks and CO2 scrubbers to last 400 people 6 months as part of a computerized air handling system that constantly monitors the humidity, CO2 and O2 levels in the complex. It includes an air filtration system to let in fresh air if the sensors didn't detect radiation or any biological or chemical contaminants. We recovered that from a nuke launch site that was decommissioned. As the money builds, I'll add more. Let's go in and sit down to talk."
They went to the gathering room and took a seat.
"Ben, what I'm proposing is to build is a 3-bedroom cabin with attached garage and a basement. If you want, Hope and Helen can help you pick out furnishings. They've done a pretty good job on a couple of cabins. If you go that route, just tell them what you have, and they can get the rest. Also, along with the cabin is a year's supply of long-term foods for a family of four. Monday, I can call and get everything ordered."
"Cal, that's fantastic!"
"Ben, now here's what I need from you. I've got a 16x24 foot room, that I can expand, that I want to turn into an infirmary. I want your help in guiding me on how it should be furnished and what over-the-counter medical supplies should be stocked for long-term use."
"Cal, sure I'll do that, and I can do you one better. I can order restricted medicines and as long as they are locked up and only used under my guidance, we're legal. I'll start putting together a list of supplies and quantities ASAP"
"I appreciate it Ben. I'm trying to cover all contingencies. This is one I'm a little slack on."
Ben must have started on the list as soon as he got home. He sent Cal the list via email on Monday and Cal turned it over to James.
Everyone turned out to empty the General Storage room and move the shelves and equipment into its new location. Cal checked the floors and they were smooth enough to tile, so it was ready to epoxy the whole room white. He didn't have enough paint to do it, but Jonah said he needed to take Martha into town and he'd pick it up. They held off painting until the next day. When the equipment for the infirmary showed up, they stocked a cabinet with the off-the-shelf medicines, one with first aid supplies, one with surgical supplies and had a locked cabinet for drugs. They had a large amount of non-restricted supplies in a special area in General Storage. Ben continually added medical supplies, both restricted and non-restricted items. They extended into the next 2 rooms had an exam room and installed an oxygen system for the entire medical facility.
The cabin was finished and Ben was moving into his new home Saturday; he didn't have any shifts that weekend. Hope and Helen had taken his list and furnished the cabin and even made a grocery run to stock him up on perishables. It was just in time. They got another 12 inches of snow the next week. Christmas was a week away and the ladies were in full planning mode. Amy was so excited. One morning, while they were eating, Cal noticed her glancing occasionally over at the fireplace. She finished her oatmeal and asked to be excused. Hope took her bowl to the sink and Amy got out of her booster seat and made a beeline over to the fireplace and squatted down and tried to look up the chimney. Cal looked over at Hope and she smiled.
"Momma, is Santa going to be able to come down the chimney if there is a fire?"
Cal put his arm around Hope and they walked over to Amy.
"Baby, he won't have any trouble bringing you your presents at all."
Amy ran over to the bookcase and grabbed a book and brought it back.
"Daddy, will you read me the story again?"
Hope and Cal sat on the couch and Amy crawled up in his lap, and he again read her "A Visit from St. Nicholas, or more well known as 'The Night Before Christmas.'"
Hope sat there listening to Cal read to Amy. Suddenly, someone called out "Helllooo."
Cal continued reading while Hope went out to greet their visitor. It was Helen and James. Whispering, Hope explained what had happened. Helen stood there, with tears in her eyes, watching and listening.
"…And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose…"
"See Amy, Santa can come down and go up the chimney whenever he wants" Cal said, and finished the poem.
Amy spotted Helen, "Grandma! Santa will be here soon!"
Helen laughed, "Yes he will, Dear, are you being a good girl?"
"Yes Grandma, Aunt Siobhan told me I was a sweet girl."
Everyone laughed.
"Halloo!" Siobhan walked in.
"Aunt Siobhan!" Amy squealed, and ran over to give her a hug.
"Hi there, Sweet Pea! Are you ready for Christmas?" Amy said "Yes, Ma'am," and whispered in Siobhan's ear. "I think we can take care of that!"
With a serious expression, Siobhan looked over at us. "I need to take Amy with me tomorrow. We have some errands to run."
She put Amy down. Hope told Amy she needed to go get dressed and she scrambled off.
Siobhan smiled. "She told me she hasn't gotten everyone presents yet." Cal reached into his back pocket for his wallet and pulled out a credit card. "Have fun.""
They sat down and had coffee and hot chocolate.
"Helllooo!" And Dawn and Ellen walked in.
"Oh goody, Hot Chocolate!" Ellen said. They both got a cup of their favorite beverage and took a seat.
Dawn spoke. "Cal, can we get a couple more refrigerator/freezers for the Dairy House? I'll use one to store milk, butter and eggs and the other one for processing seeds. I purchased two seed banks of heirloom seeds and want to try them out."
Cal thought a minute. "James, get her a couple of units. Also, order 3 more industrial forklift batteries and another row of solar panels. We would probably have enough power, but I'd rather go for overkill."
"Oh, and Dawn, get reimbursed by James for the seeds."
James nodded, "On it."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 15:26:24 GMT -6
Cal had finished the excavation and pillars in the last room. With the shelves emplaced, they had almost tripled the General Storage and recovered 1100t oz gold. Cal had 15 more gold ingots and a smidgen worth around $2,000,000,
Moving the machine, he cut a doorway through to their bedroom from the nursery. Cal ground channels for water and electricity conduits before painting and tiling. With help, it took only a few days. The ladies went immediately into action and started furnishing and decorating the nursery.
Andy had been busy getting an electronic gate installed at the cattle guard. It was pretty innovative. When the gate closed, the cattle guard was raised. It could be controlled from any number of remotes that all ranch members had. They wouldn't be too concerned about invasive vehicle intrusions.
Christmas was a few days away and the night of the Christmas party at Frank's was two days away. Siobhan asked Cal to come up to the studio to go over the music. She had him playing different instruments at different times. Cal could hardly keep up with it all.
"Just tell me what you want me to play," he finally told her. She did set up an arrangement with Cal on piano, Cathleen on cello, and Lilly on the harp, playing Silent Night. It sounded beautiful. Cal was to play solo tunes during intermissions. No rest for the weary…
Helen and Mary put together half-page booklets of Christmas carols so everyone could sing along.
They all convoyed to the party. Siobhan and the rest of the band started setting up. Cal got Hope and everyone else seated in one area and went up on stage to the piano. Siobhan signaled him to start playing, so he sat down and softly played "All Through the Night." Frank wasn't quite ready to do his MC thing, so Cal followed with "Do You Hear What I Hear?" Frank finally came up on stage and started things rolling.
"Ladies and gentlemen and lovely young children! Welcome to our Christmas celebration. We eagerly wait for this season every year, especially the children. It is a time to open our hearts, it is a season for giving, and receiving. Different religions celebrate this season in various ways, but this year, we wanted to celebrate also, all the giving that our military, our firemen and law enforcement personnel do every day. If we weren't safe and secure, none of us would have the happiness of the season."
Everyone applauded. "Tonight, we have the O'Malleys giving us music to cheer us through the night. Children, I believe we're also going to have a visit later on by a jolly old fellow in a red suit." The children cheered. "The waiters and waitresses will be around shortly to take your drink and food orders. Again, thank you for your attendance and your service." Frank nodded at Siobhan and she at the rest of the musicians. Cathleen, Lilly and Cal began with Silent Night.
The Christmas party was a big success. Santa, played by Sam Calbert, handed out gifts our ladies had picked out, to all the children, gift certificates to each family for meals at Franks, and Cal donated large checks to the charities for the firemen and LEOs. Frank also paid for all the food and drinks, which surprised everyone when they asked for their checks.
Everyone gathered for Christmas dinner again in the shelter gathering room. In reality, everyone showed up for breakfast, including Ben, to watch Amy open her gifts. She was going to be one spoiled little girl if this kept up. She was puzzled when she opened her present from Paw Jonah and Maw Martha. It was just a leather lead-line.
"Paw Jonah, what is this for?"
Jonah grinned. "Well, you just wait until after breakfast and I'll show you what's used for."
Amy could not wait to finish her breakfast and dress in warm clothes. Jonah led her down to the barn and introduced her to her new pony, whom she decided to name "Pinky." Aedan saddled the pony with the saddle he bought for her and led her around for almost an hour. Hope finally made her come in for some hot chocolate. She was one happy little girl. They weren't ready for the next snowfall. The weatherman called for 10 - 12 inches, they got 20. They shouldn't have been surprised. The weather people can't tell what is going to happen tomorrow but can tell you what the temperatures are going to be a decade from now because of "Global Warming." Cal went to General storage and grabbed a bunch of snowshoes out. Putting one pair on, He left the rest on the porch and went to the hangar to get the tractor. He cleared the areas around the buildings and fueling area and made his way to each cabin, dropping snowshoes off at each cabin. After putting the tractor away, Cal started the wood furnace to heat the hangar and returned to the cabin.
It wasn't long before everyone started filtering into the cabin. The ladies decided on a communal meal of beef stew and home-made bread for lunch, using some of the freeze-dried food that was stored. The guys went to the Gun Room and checked weapons. Jonah and Cal went and set up the excavator to start on another room. Cal hadn't had a chance to process the pay dirt from finishing the connection to the nursery, so he showed Ben what the process entailed. Ben was amazed. They only recovered about a half oz t of gold though.
They returned to the Gun Room and everyone practiced disassembly and assembly of the different types of weapons they had, until lunch.
It snowed again that night, maybe 10 inches or so. They had already received almost four times the normal amount of snow they usually got in a year. Come Spring, Cal needed to start looking for stock tank locations, get them dug out, and lined with bentonite. But that would have to wait until the snows melted. The snows finally cleared, and Cal got busy looking for tank sites with Jonah and putting in marking stakes. They had finished putting their tools away when Cal noticed a vehicle parked in the driveway. Curious, he headed for the cabin.
Cal found Hope and Maria Callas sitting in the Family Room drinking coffee.
"Honey, Maria has something to ask you" Hope said.
Cal grabbed a cup of coffee and sat down with them.
He looked at Maria. "Okay, what's up?"
Maria blushed. "Hope, I…"
Hope laughed, "Oh, ask him."
Maria looked at Cal. "Cal, would it be okay with you if Ben and I went out on a date?"
Astonished, Cal replied, "Why in the world is it any of my concern?"
Maria, still blushing said "Well, you are very protective about the people you surround yourself with and I didn't want to cause any problems.
"Jesus!" Cal looked over at her and smiled. "Listen, I'm nobody special. I just try to keep those I care about safe, like anyone else would. The things I've had to do and will do in the future will be because I think it is right. I don't go looking for trouble. What you and Ben do in your personal life is no business of anyone but you two. As a matter of fact, I'd like to see Ben socializing more, especially if it is with you. So, you don't need my blessing. You just take it a day at a time and I wish you both the best."
Cal got up to get another coffee and Maria stood up also and gave him a hug.
"Hope, you'd better keep a watchful eye, or some woman is going to try to snatch him."
Hope laughed, "Oh, I keep my walking staff by the door to beat them off!"
Cal looked over at Hope. "Ben is coming for dinner tonight, isn't he?"
Hope nodded and looked at Maria. "Why don't you stay for dinner?"
Maria smiled, "I'd like that."
The two women went into the kitchen and started working their magic.
"We just could be getting another resident here," Cal thought.
It's always something. Wednesday, Ranger was running low on dog food, so Cal took him to pick up a couple of bags. They got the food and Cal decided to stop by Frank's for coffee.
Ranger went with him inside and they sat at their special table. There were two men at the counter that were being a little loud. They acted intoxicated. Frank asked them, politely, to keep it down. About that time, Maria came in the door and stood near the corner. When the men continued, Frank asked them to leave. When the men began cursing Frank, Maria stepped forward.
"The owner of this establishment has asked you to leave."
One of the men grabbed Maria by the arm and shoved her up against one of the booths, pinning her there. The other guy was about to hit Frank with a coffee mug.
Cal jumped up, grabbing the guy with the mug at a pressure point and made him drop it. He gave the other man a side kick to the knee. The man immediately hit the floor screaming.
"RANGER, HOLD!"
Ranger bit and held the downed man's arm. Maria grabbed the other arm and started to cuff him. She rolled him over. "RANGER, RELEASE!" She commanded. Ranger released the arm and stood at the guard position.
Cal had the other man in an arm lock and using an aikido move, put him on the floor face down. Maria called for back-up and cuffed the other prisoner.
Maria looked at Cal and smiled. "Superman strikes again!"
"What?" He said.
"That guy had me pinned."
Cal smirked. "I wasn't worried about you. The other guy was about to slug Frank with a coffee mug."
Another patrol car arrived. Statements were taken and the thugs were taken away. Frank came out with a raw steak, cut up and placed it in front of Ranger. Ranger looked down at the meat, then looked up at Cal.
"EAT." Ranger began eating the steak.
Maria chuckled, "Maybe I let you have Ranger a little too soon."
Cal smiled, "Amy would come and hunt you down on her pony too!"
Frank hugged Cal and started on another one of his speeches of appreciation. Maria rolled her eyes.
"Dad leave it for right now. Cal only did what he did because you're his friend."
"Frank grumbled, then smiled. "I will make it up to you somehow. Again, you have come to the rescue of my daughter, and have saved me from bodily injury. I don't forget."
Cal went home and told Hope what had happened. She just shook her head and started calling Cal "Dudley," for "Dudley Do-Right."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 15:27:21 GMT -6
Cal had an excavation company come in and dig out the stock tanks and line them. They wouldn't completely fill this year but would capture some of the snow melt. February, historically, was the last really cold month they should have was the coldest month of the year, so if they got any more substantial snowfall, He expected it would be this month.
Cal was on the computer looking at average winds for the area. If they were steady enough, He considered adding small wind turbines to each cabin to augment the solar panels.
The radio blared with Jonah's voice, "Cal, you need to come outside."
Cal went out and the first thing he spotted was an 18-wheeler cattle truck.
Cal walked over to Jonah and the driver.
Offering his hand, Cal asked "What can I do for you?"
The driver shook his hand and replied, "I'm from the H Bar H horse ranch out of Cheyenne. I've got a load of horses for you."
Cal looked at Jonah who just shrugged.
"Well. I didn't order any horses."
The driver retrieved a clipboard from his truck. "Yep, says to deliver them to the High-Top Ranch. Buyer is a Frank Callas."
Cal just shook his head. "Frank said he'd find a way to repay me, but this many horses?"
"Okay" he said. "Jonah, let's just put them in the barn for right now."
Of course, there were more than 8 empty stalls, so they had no problem putting them up. They gave them a bit of sweet feed and made sure the horses had water.
Cal went back to the cabin and called Frank. "Frank, the horses are too much!"
He heard Frank chuckle. "Nonsense, you have to have something to ride to take Amy out on her pony. Besides, they will save you fuel." Something flashed through Cal's mind.
"Okay, but nothing else,"
"But you'll need tack for them!"
Cal sighed. "I'll get the tack, no problem."
Cal called Jonah in.
"Jonah, we're going to need tack. Get a card from James and go in and get whatever we need. Also, get more sweet feed. I only picked up enough for Pinky." Jonah nodded and took off on his errand.
While it was still on his mind, Cal called Bob Harriman and ordered two, two-thousand-gallon diesel tanks to be installed. Bob said he could have them installed in a week and that the crew would be out tomorrow to pour the footings. Then it had struck him,< "What if we had to do with only horses for transportation?" > He'd sit down and talk with Jonah later. February wasn't a surprise. Average temperature was normally in the 40's. It never got that high. They had another 13 inches of snow. Cal took the tractor down near the nearest cattle tank and started pushing and dumping snow into it. He pretty much cleared a pasture doing that. Jonah drove the Unimog, it had a dump body, and Cal filled the bed with snow from the roads and Jonah would dump the snow near the tank. After the roads were cleared, Cal went to the tank and pushed the snow into the tank.
This was an unusual winter, A heck of a lot more snow than had been anticipated. If the climate was to continue as Cal suspected, and it was just a scientific wild-ass guess, they would continue to be cooler summers and colder winters. He needed to talk to the others and get their opinion. Cal could see the need for two more greenhouses and preparing more land for another garden plot of about the same size. They would have to play it by ear. Now, even the last frost schedule was thrown off so they would have to guess when they could plant the outdoor plots. Cal made a note to tell Dawn to see what grapes they could grow, and also apple trees. He could go ahead and till up areas for each and the soil could be augmented when they figured out what supplements were needed.
Manure. They would soon begin having enough manure to stockpile themselves. Cal wanted to build a manure pit behind the barn where they could leave manure and hay cleaned out of the stalls. He made a note to draw up some plans.
Cal was still concerned about the economy and the troubles, especially Islamic terrorists, throughout the world. He secretly believed they should nuke them all back to the stone age and beyond.
Well, he could only do what he could for his "family." In another month and a half, they would butcher the beef cattle. He wanted to double the number next year. They needed to can/freeze/dry as much meat as they could. Cal would buy a couple more steers to butcher also.
Cal wanted to dry some beef to make dried beef. Everyone seemed to like chipped beef and gravy over biscuits. Meat slicer: he'd need a meat slicer, a commercial version. Somewhere to process it. Just a steel building to process meat and vegetables.
A lot was running through his mind. Cal called a company that installed steel buildings and told them what he needed, electrical requirements, etc. He wouldn't have enough time to add to their battery storage, but they could lease a 30Kw generator on a trailer to power the building until a powerhouse could be built.
Because of the slow economy, the steel building company was more than happy to put their people getting the building erected as soon as possible. It was done in three weeks. With the input of the ladies, they got everything to process the foods. The freeze-dryer and dehydrators more relocated there. Now, no one's kitchens were cluttered. It was recommended that another freeze-dryer be purchased, so James ordered the largest Harvest Right model they sold. When they butchered the cattle, two of the cattle were taken to a meat processor to have them cut up. They kept one and Dawn, Jim and Cal cut it up the way they wanted it. The ladies cut up a lot of lean beef up to make a lot of beef stew to be freeze-dried. Also, they made a lot of Beef Jerky and beef sticks. Cal smoked all these in the 5x5 smoker he had built next to the Processing Building. They even made Italian Sausage. Cal purchased a pig and that was ground up, added some beef and spices and stuffed the casings.
They had all the meat processed, with each cabin getting a portion. Excess was stored in the shelter. The ladies had designed a label to put on the mylar bags that showed the contents, servings and shelf life. Only a few of the freeze-dried items had a shelf life less than 25 years, and those that weren't were distinctly marked with a clearly defined label. Food processing had become a big thing during the winter months. Martha, Helen and Mary all became involved in trying different recipes and foods to store. They had pretty much perfected stews, soups, spaghetti and stroganoff to be freeze-dried. The foods were actually better than what could be purchased in the camping stores. Vegetables from the greenhouses were tested to find the best method of preserving. In March, Cal ordered two more greenhouses. Dawn and Ellen again set them up with one as a standard greenhouse but with miniature citrus trees and another one for hydroponics and fish tanks. We would have enough surplus to sell at the farmer's market come Spring. Frank started buying vegetables from the Ranch for his restaurants, plus they were donating a goodly amount of food to the shelters in town. The ladies had come up with a winning enterprise, so much so Cal had to purchase a couple more freeze-dryers and dehydrators. They had the food processing down to a science. It took no time at all to put away the mini harvests from the greenhouses.
Cal purchased 4 hogs and had them butchered. The ladies handle everything but the hams. Cal and Jonah salt and sugar cured those and smoked them. Once they were cured and smoked, they were stored in linen bags and hung in the food storage room in the shelter. It seemed everyone was possessed with storing food. Ammo purchases were increased on the advice of Andy and Jim. Everyone had a sense the situation in the world was going to come to a head, just not when.
Andy and Cal made another trip to Denver to unload more gold. Another 650t oz of gold had been recovered from the new excavation. The cut needed to be extended further because it seemed the vein was widening. Cal had a plan to make an underground garage, but it could take months. The excavation the machine was working on, right now, would take the cut further north. Eventually, Cal would work his way back east and, hopefully, be able to dig out and make an opening in the side of the bluff for a vehicle entrance. Then Cal got a surprise.
Cal went one day to check the machine. It was about time to replace the grinding wheels and order another backup set. He kept two spare sets but wanted to stay ahead. Upon entering the room, he noticed the machine had stopped. It would do this if it had nothing to grind. Sure enough, it definitely had nothing to grind, just a gaping hole. Backing the machine out, Cal turned on his headlamp on high and entered the cavity. There was a huge room with about 25 - 30-foot ceiling. He didn't go any further. He wanted to get more light in there and measure everything. Backing out, Cal got Dave and Andy to help him. They brought back a laser level and a laser distance measurer. After taking measurements, they went to the cabin and had a cup of coffee. Cal tried to hold his excitement in, but this could speed his plans up by many months. After finishing their coffee, Cal pulled out his scale plat maps and entered the measurements. They ended up with a new 50x75 foot cavern room only 35 feet from the outer wall of the bluff. Cal could have that cleared in less than two weeks. Plans were flying through his head, but right now, he had to change out the grinders.
Two days later, the machine was working again, they would need three passes to make the entrance the width he wanted. The heavy-duty garage door would have to be custom made, and he'd already ordered it. Cal kept up with the pay dirt, but there wasn't as much gold in this area. It seemed most of the gold was in the central area of the plateau. Cal saved some of the pay dirt, after processing, to mix with cement and dye to camouflage the mortar mix he would use to seal around the door. A good paint scheme would make the door practically invisible.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 15:28:12 GMT -6
By Spring, the weather turned to more normal temperatures. They plowed the alfalfa under in the two garden plots and began readying for planting. Dawn had already started seedlings to be transplanted. It would a few weeks before that started but when the time came, they would have everything ready. Dawn wanted to grow everything without chemical fertilizers, and that was fine with everyone. They discussed various ways they could make organic fertilizers and Cal started shopping around for a used water tank. They could leach what they wanted from manure and composted materials. Just a couple of tanks were needed and a compost pit. They ended up with a concrete pit that could be drained of the liquids and filtered into the final holding tank. Sprayers could be used to apply the fertilizer to the garden. A filter system had to be designed to remove sediment, but that was no problem. They tried their fertilizer on a few plants in the greenhouses and they took on tremendous growth. Little by little, Dawn started fertilizing the other plants and the output was amazing! During one of their confabs, Ellen brought up the idea of providing produce to sell at the farmer's market. That was discussed for a while. Cal sat there listening and thinking of the work that would have to be done on market day.
"Wait up guys. The way I see it, in order to take produce to market, you have to start early, harvest what you want to take, load it in a vehicle, take it to market, unload it at market, and sell it." Everyone gave him a questioning look.
"I think I see a way to work smarter. First, I suggest we build a cold room in the Processing Building. We have the room. We can cool it and humidify it to whatever degree we need. That way, we can harvest the day before and keep the produce fresh. Carrots with fresh tops would sell better than what you normally see. We can get trays or baskets to put the produce in and set up a misting system, like in the grocery stores, to keep everything fresh. We can build a 20-foot trailer with display bins to sell out of. All you would have to do on market do is to load your bins, close up the trailer, take it to market and open up and display. Any two people could do it."
Everyone looked up and started nodding.
"What about when it turns hot? There's little humidity here in the high country and the vegetables won't last that long on the trailer." Dawn replied.
"Simple" Cal said. "We'll incorporate a misting system on the trailer to keep things cool. Placed on a timer, like in the grocery store, you'll sell everything before it can wilt."
Again, everyone nodded.
Cal stood up. "I'll take care of the trailer. I know just who can build what I want. When the market opens up in May, I'll bet you don't return too many times with anything on the trailer."
After discussing what products would be available, Cal started to believe that a 20-foot trailer wouldn't be enough. He started thinking about a 5th wheel trailer. A misting system, cooling system, water tanks, power system, etc. Were needed. Cal decided to take some gold in to sale. He could stop by Colorado Trailers in Castle Rock and order what was needed.
Cal sold 50t oz of gold and stopped in Castle Rock to see about the trailer. He explained what was needed and the salesman, Dan Hopkins, took notes.
"I know we have a 46-foot 5th wheel chassis available. Do you want the inside insulated also?" Dan asked.
"Yes, I want to keep the inside as cool as possible. As you can see on the plans, there are vents over each display area for cool air to blow down on the produce. That's why I went large on the air conditioners to provide over-pressure."
"You'll have people just standing there just to keep cool." Dan chuckled.
"Well, as long as they have their wallets in their hands, I don't mind." Cal smiled.
Dan opened a drawer and pulled out a file. "You know, we did a trailer last year that had a setup similar to this, not as fancy, but good. We had to find trays to fit the displays. Yeah, here it is. Each tray was 24x24x6 inches. Would that work?"
"Perfectly! You have the distributor's info?" Cal said excitedly.
"I can take care of that. I'll just add the cost to the trailer" Dan said.
Cal nodded. "Okay. Then double the number of trays I'll need for the display area."
They made a deal and Cal was back home by dinner time. They built the cold room and ran some tests on how long produce could be stored before things started wilting. Most everything could be stored up to three days, but they set the time to two days. The trailer was received a week before Market Day to allow time to get familiar with everything. Cal had purchased a used pick-up and installed a 5th wheel hitch. A generator was placed in the back of the truck to augment power. A battery system with inverters to run power for four hours was included in the trailer. Dave and Andy rigged up a power control system to automatically start the generator if the batteries fell below a certain level. With the trailer parked next to the Milk House, they could plug the trailer into shore power, load the produce the night before, and the most they had to do the next morning was add more water to the tank. Colorado Trailers had even added a water cooler spigot to the side of the trailer. A cup dispenser could easily be added next to it and customers could get a free cup of cold water. For overkill, Cal had CT install a 500-gallon water tank. Hopefully, there would be enough water for the mister and thirsty customers.
Market Day. Dawn drove that truck like an 18-wheeler jockey! She made Dave ride shotgun. Cal followed, just to monitor, but stayed out of their way. They got there early and quickly set things up. Dave and Cal set up the awning, chairs, and table with a set of scales. Then Dawn and Ellen pulled out the big guns; professionally made signs, "Organic Produce." Cal hadn't even thought about that. More and more people were leaning towards foods that weren't fertilized with chemicals.
He walked over to Dawn. "Can you do that?"
Dawn looked at me. "What?"
"Say this produce is organic. I thought you had to have some kind of inspection or something."
Dawn grinned, reached inside the trailer, and retrieved a framed certificate, which she hung on the side of the trailer. "Like this?"
He stared at the certificate. "When did this happen?"
"Sorry," Dawn replied. "You're always so busy, I took the initiative and just did it."
Cal chuckled. "Hey, no problem. I'm glad you did. You and Ellen have done a fantastic job! I want to make sure you and Ellen get part of the profits."
Dawn smiled. "Let's talk about that later. We've got customers."
Cal hadn't intended to stay, but he was amazed at what was happening. It was like bees flying to honey. In three hours, all the produce was sold. He couldn't believe how fast the stuff had moved out of the bins. There was absolutely nothing left. Cal had walked around looking at the other vendors and their produce looked dry, wilted and not as pleasing as what Dawn and Ellen had on display. They had a winner!
When they arrived back home, Hope came out to meet them.
"What happened? Why are you back so early?"
Dawn jumped out of the truck, ran over to Hope and hugged her.
"We sold EVERYTHING!" Dawn screamed.
Hope laughed. "Well, how are you going to top that?"
Dawn looked over at Cal. "We need to talk!"
Cal just laughed, got back in the truck and backed the rig next to the milk house. He'd let them settle down before he got into any discussions.
Cal walked over to Hope. "Can we put together a meal so we can have a meeting tonight?"
Dawn thought a second. "Sure, let me talk to the other girls. How does beef stew and homemade bread sound?"
"Good. Make it for 6:30 PM." So, the "Tell-A-Woman" communications network went into effect. The meal was delicious and when all the dishes were rinsed and put into the dishwasher, they began their confab.
Cal began. "Well, it seems we have a winner in our produce trailer. Dawn, do you want to let us in on lessons learned?"
Dawn grinned. "Oh, we learned a lot today! Ellen and I were continuously jotting down notes to go over for later. First, we could have sold a lot more if we had the produce. I think we need to get another 2 dozen produce trays. We can keep them rotated in the cold room. We can load the extra produce trays inside the trailers and rotate the empties with the extras. What we don't sell, we can either process or compost it. Second, I think we can sell more dried herbs. We can make our own labels and put them in food safe Ziplock bags. I recommend 2 sizes at first. One ounce and six ounces. We can see how the herbs sell for a few markets and expand as needed. I think the trailer is the perfect size and I don't see expanding on it. Right now, we are selling the excess, making sure we have our little community fed. Any more you want to sell, we'll have to put in more greenhouses. If you want to expand, keep an eye on the future, evaluate the market and see what's needed."
Cal was impressed. He looked around the table to see the expressions on everyone's face.
"Well, I consider the endeavor today a success. Not only are you providing food for the ranch, but also realizing a profit from the excess. This is my proposal. One half of the profits from market sells will go to Dawn and Ellen. One quarter will be divided out between the other members of the ranch, since everyone, at some time or another gets a little dirty in the gardens and greenhouses. I know none of us really need the money, but we will share equally. I've decided that everyone will share in my reclamation of the gold also. It's not much, but I'm sure we will all benefit."
"I really don't contribute that much to deserve all that" Ben said.
"Ben, you contribute more than you know. I don't think there is anyone that will not benefit from you being here now or in the future. Your qualifications more than substantiate what profits this ranch can derive."
"As for the rest of you, you all pitch in when needed. That's what makes us successful. You guys in college too have a burden to shoulder. Your successes in the academic world will not only makes us proud, but also make this world a little better."
Everyone smiled and nodded.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 15:29:53 GMT -6
The next market day, Helen and Mary joined Dawn and Ellen. Hope wasn't feeling all that well. Hope waddled into the kitchen feeling very large. Even worse, she felt that she was very ugly and that there was no way that Cal could possibly be interested in her. She was about to complain when Cal said, "You are so beautiful. Come here and sit on my lap."
"Oh, come on" Hope said, not wanting to hear how beautiful she looked. She wanted to gripe about being fat and ugly.
"Please come here and sit on my lap. I want to run my hand over your belly and feel little Cal or baby Hope moving around in there" Cal said patting his lap. Snorting in disbelief, Hope went over to him and sat on his lap. She said, "I don't see how you can stand to have me sitting on you. I weigh a ton."
"No, you don't" Cal said running a hand over her belly. The baby kicked his hand. Smiling upon feeling the sensation of life within her belly, Cal said, "I felt that one."
"The baby is active today" Hope said with a smile. She decided that she could use a little positive attention from her husband.
"How's your back?" Cal asked. He heard that a lot of women complained of back pains while pregnant because of the poor distribution of weight. That was particularly true during the final months of pregnancy.
"It's okay" Hope answered.
Kissing her on the neck, Cal said, "I got a gift certificate for you at Beautify Day Spa & Salon in town for a half of a day of pampering."
"You didn't?" Hope blurted, surprised at his thoughtfulness.
"I did. I don't want you feeling bad for even a minute" Cal said.
Hope burst into tears and hugged him. Sobbing, she said, "You're too good to me."
"Well, I wanted to get you the full day package, but they said that they wouldn't do the full hair styling. The woman there said that the stuff they use to color hair wasn't really good for pregnant women. So, I got you the half day package. It's a massage, haircut, manicure, pedicure, and lunch. I hope you enjoy it," Cal said.
"I'll enjoy it," Hope said unable to believe that he had done that for her.
The market day went great. Again, they sold all their produce and even the herbs. Some people made certain requests for vegetables and Dawn and Ellen kept notes.
Hope entered the cabin and looked around for Cal. She found him back in the shelter. Cal was just finishing excavating another room. Smiling, she said, "This room is finished."
"Yes, just about.," Cal said backing the machine out. Looking over at his wife, he said, "You look relaxed."
"I am. That was so great," Hope said. Taking an entire afternoon off to be pampered was heavenly. Wanting to thank him for his thoughtfulness, she added, "If you'll come in the bedroom with me, I'll give you a proper thank you."
He did, she did, and a great time was had by all.
Things weren't going too well in the country. Socialism was on the rise and more and more of the leftist ideas were spawning in the schools. Illegal immigration was on the rise, and the crime statistics were rising also. Nothing was looking good on the home front. Well, everything was great on the Ranch. They doubled their beef cattle again, the last excavations had produced an abundance of gold, and the gardens and greenhouse output were unbelievable! In another couple of months, he'd be a father. He couldn't believe it! Ben made sure he monitored Hope's pregnancy and consulted with her doctor. Ben and Maria were constantly together for all their gatherings. Everyone saw there was something building there.
Hope and Mary wanted to go into Grand Junction to do some shopping for baby clothes. Cal needed a few hardware items, so he drove them in. He dropped them at the mall and made a run to a couple of places hecould pick up what he needed. When Cal got back to the mall, he called Hope to find out where they were. She told him, but said they'd meet him at the food court. He looked around a little bit and made his way to their meeting place. Just as he entered the area, gunshots erupted. He quickly looked around and drew his weapon. Cal rushed into the food court and a lot of people were running around and screaming, but he quickly saw Mary kneeling on the right side of the court. He rushed over and saw Hope on the floor next to Mary. His soul went dark. Hope had a gunshot wound in the chest. He quickly administered first aid with the help of Mary. Time stood still. It seemed in no time the paramedics were there and took over helping Hope. They loaded her on a gurney and Cal went with her. Handing his keys Mary, he told her to notify everyone. They were only five minutes from the hospital; Cal held Hope's hand the whole time. When they got to the emergency room, Hope was whisked away from him, they taking her immediately into surgery. Mary soon arrived and they sat, waiting for any news.
They sat there waiting for over an hour. The other people from the Ranch had arrived and they waited together. Cal got up and walked down the hall to get a drink of water. As he started back, he saw a doctor enter the waiting room area. Cal saw the look on the doctor's face and heard Mary cry out. Cal knew. He slowly dropped to his knees and placed his head on the floor, sobbing. When he had settled down, Mary held him in her arms. "Cal, they saved your son."
He looked up at Mary, "What!"
"Cal, you have a son. They were able to save the baby. It's a boy; seven pounds and six ounces."
"Evan," I said. "She wanted to name him after her father."
Cal straightened up. "When can I see him?"
"Just a little while." She said. "They will let us know." Cal cradled his son in his arms. The baby boy looked at Cal, seemingly wondering who he was. He had Hope's eyes. He had Hope's nose. Through blurry eyes Cal saw his life with Hope, short as it was, flash before his eyes. Half his heart was empty, half was filled with love for the son his lovely Hope had given him. Cal handed his son back to the nurse and sat down and cried. He walked out of the nursery; through a throng of people he didn't see. He walked down the hallway, voices calling his name. There was no destination, like when he left Bragg. He just wanted to be alone.
A hand grabbed his arm and pulled him to a stop. Cal turned around and Siobhan grabbed him by the shoulders, sadness showing on her face.
"Cal. You have to be strong. You have to be strong for your son. Hope loved you more than life and she would want you to love your son the same way. We are all here to support you, to love you."
Cal looked at her. Siobhan put her arms around him and held him close. They stood there, holding each other for a couple of minutes. Breaking apart, they walked back up the hall to their friends and family. Mary looked up at Cal, tears rolling down her face. He reached for her and she fell into his arms. Nothing was said. Nothing needed to be said.
Many have told him Hope's funeral was attended by more people than anyone could remember. They had a service for her in the little church where Cal and Hope were married. Cal had tunnel vision, only staring at Hope's casket. While the Pastor went through the graveside service, Cal kept thinking that he would never hold Hope in his arms again. She wouldn't be able to hold Evan, feed him from her breast, comfort him when he cried with his first tooth or see him off for his first day of school. It wasn't just his wife that had been killed, but his dreams for the future. For the second time of his life, death had robbed him of his future. Anyone who says that real men don't cry never had their hearts ripped out.
They set aside a place for her to be buried on a knoll on the ranch. Siobhan and Mary immediately took over the care of his son, James Evan Coleman. Cal found a lot of joy in his son, but his heart had a gigantic hole in it.
After a couple of weeks,Siobhan ended up moving into a bedroom across the hall from the nursery. It was easier for everyone. When Mary and Siobhan talked to Cal about it, he went along with their idea, knowing they had the best of intentions. Cal was still on autopilot.
Cal did get to talk with Captain Morris.
"Carl, who did it?"
"Cal, the best we can find out it was some sort of gang trouble. We've got these illegals filtering in and having a hard time getting a handle on this. With the ACLU and other do-good organizations jumping in and screaming "racism," our hands are getting tied behind our backs."
Cal stared at Carl, thinking that just a little common sense on the part of judges and politicians could have prevented the death of his wife from happening.
Carl bowed his head, "I don't know what's happened to this country. There was a time when people came to this country and became good neighbors, if they didn't speak English, they learned it. They strived to become useful members of the community.
That's the idea behind the American 'melting pot.' People from everywhere come here and become one people. I think that a lot of people have forgotten that. Too many people want to keep themselves separate. We have African Americans, Asian Americans, Mexican Americans, Arab Americans, Indian Americans, and, for all I know, Martian Americans. What happened to just being an American?" Carl said. "What we end up with today are criminals who are directly being protected by those too scared to point the criminals out."
Cal nodded his head. There was a way to fix this. He just didn't tell Carl. He didn't want him involved. Cal intended to make his son's life better through selective elimination.
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Post by gipsy on Aug 3, 2021 16:48:24 GMT -6
Darwin is going to get a helper
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 16:58:45 GMT -6
Cal saddled a horse one day and just went drifting. He was slowly getting his mind in order. In a fit of rage and hate, he had pushed forward some plans he hadn't intended before. Cal had a bunkhouse built that would accommodate 12 people. It had bedrooms, a living area, and a kitchen. He went ahead and had a basement added also. Cal had a crazy plan to fill it with stone cold killers and ride vigilante style over the illegals and gangs. Finally, Andy got him calmed down and Cal told him who to send for.
"Andy, I want you to get in touch with Slade, Jimbo, Drake and Knight; the 'Four Horsemen'". Tell them I have some trash to take out and to come full kit."
Andy looked at him for a second, nodded, then walked out the door.
They'd keep this low key.
Cal spent a couple of hours poking around the greenhouses and gardens. Evan popped into his mind, so he went to the cabin, got a drink of water, and went looking for Siobhan. He looked in her bedroom, then in the nursery. Cal did a double take. Siobhan was feeding Evan, but not with a bottle. She was BREASTFEEDING him! Cal just stood there staring.
"Cal, sit down." Siobhan said. "From the first day I arrived here, Hope and I were like sisters, as you probably noticed. Maybe even closer. She asked me if I would help nurse the baby when he arrived. It was a bond she wanted to share with me. She was going to surprise you when she brought the baby home."
"But…but…how…" I stuttered.
"I've been taking some drugs and herbs to induce lactation, plus using a breast pump daily. My milk just came in a couple of weeks ago."
Cal sat there watching Evan nurse. He could feel Hope there with them, watching over their son. He looked into Siobhan's eyes, "She couldn't have picked a better sister."
Siobhan smiled while burping the baby. She took him over and laid him in his cradle. Evan quickly went to sleep. Cal walked over to her and put his arms around her.
"We'll make it through this. Just be strong for your son." She whispered.
Slade and Jimbo showed up. Drake and Knight arrived a day later. Andy had given them a little information on what had happened. Cal hadn't given him his plan yet. They set them up in the bunkhouse and got them settled.
"Guys, Andy has told you what happened to my wife. I'm not out for revenge. Revenge would never bring my son's mother back. I want to make sure no one else loses an innocent family member to gang and drug violence. Law enforcement have their hands pretty much tied and political correctness is the theme of the day. I want to put an end to the gangs, no matter what race. We also have some council members who are pushing for sanctuary city status. I want that squelched. I don't want anyone killed, at least not yet. You are the gurus of stealth. Let's see what you can do to intimidate these skunks."
Cal walked into the kitchen and Mary, Helen, Amy, and Siobhan were there making bread. Evan was in his carrier on the table. He went over and tickled under Evan's chin who gave his father a little grin.
"Ladies, that's smelling mighty good! Cal grinned.
"I was going to make bread anyway, but the girls showed up and we decided to make a loaf for each cabin." Siobhan replied. "We're going to have to grind more flour though."
"I'll go do that now," Cal said.
He went to the shelter kitchen and got out the flour mill and got the wheat out of the pantry. He needed to order more wheat to rotate the stocks.
Mary walked in. "Cal, how are you doing?"
He looked up at her. Tears started forming his eyes.. "Mary, I'm surviving."
She put her hand on his shoulder. "I know it hurts, but your children need you more now than ever. Siobhan is doing a good job with Evan and Amy, isn't she?"
Cal nodded, "She's doing great! I don't know what I'd do without her. She stepped right in and took charge. The kids and I really needed it."
"It's because she loves you."
He looked at her, eyes widening.
"It's because she's IN LOVE with you, I should say."
"Mary, I haven't…"
"No, Cal, it's all right. Hope was nervous about having her first child. We were all having coffee one day and Hope made Siobhan promise if anything happened to her, that Siobhan would make sure you and the kids were taken care of. She knew Siobhan had feelings for you. I don't know if she was prescient, or what."
Tears came to his eyes. "That's why the breastfee… " "Yes, she wanted to be prepared for anything. She loved you and Amy and that baby so much."
Cal went back to grinding flour and Mary returned to the cabin.
He refilled the flour bin and got a box of bread bags out of the pantry. Returning with them to the cabin, he gave the bags to Siobhan.
"Oh great! I didn't know we had these." Siobhan exclaimed.
"Well, you'd better take some time when Evan takes his naps to inventory the pantry." Mary said, looking at Cal.
Cal blushed.
"I think I'll go check the chicken feeders." He said, grabbing his hat.
Helen and Mary chuckled; Siobhan blushed.
"Don't poke at him, you two!"
Helen frowned. "That man has been handed more pain than anyone should be expected to endure alone. You are the woman who can heal him and take that pain away. The sooner he realizes you'd make the perfect wife and mother to his children, the better off you both will be."
Siobhan busied herself with cleaning bread pans.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 17:06:41 GMT -6
The weeks slowly went by. Somebody was grabbing Latino gang members and they were ending up over on the other side of Elbert, stripped naked and completely tarred and feathered. The other thugs in town thought it was funny until members of other gangs started having the same thing happen. Sanctuary City advocates started having tarred and feathered gang members showing up in their yards. A couple of ACLU lawyers where stripped naked, had green indelible ink poured over them and were left zip-tied to the porch posts of left-wing City Council members. Drug dealers, and users caught in the open, were snatched, stripped naked, and covered with red indelible ink, and dropped ten miles out of town. Any guns found on them were zip-tied to their testicles. The gangs started going around in large groups. Eventually, their car engines were ruined by armor-piercing bullets. Gang and drug activity were coming to a halt. Everyone, or you could say, the "Ladies", decided they needed to have a cookout. They planned everything, and the men burned the meat. Everything they ate was produced on the ranch. After having a satisfying meal, they sat around the picnic table jawing.
"There's a dance at the Grange Hall next Saturday night." Mary announced.
"Cal, why don't you take Siobhan?" Helen asked.
Cal looked up from his beer and glanced around the table. Everyone was grinning at him, except for Siobhan. She was looking at something in her lap.
"I don't know." Cal said "I probably should stay with the kids."
"Nonsense! James and I would love to babysit the kids! You two go and have a good time."
Siobhan and Cal looked at each other.
"Would you like to go to the dance with me?" Cal asked.
"I'd love to." Siobhan smiled.
A day later, Cal was having second thoughts. He went and found Siobhan.
"Siobhan, I don't feel exactly right going to the dance."
Siobhan looked at him sadly.
"Cal, I can imagine what you are feeling. You will always love Hope and it hurts to lose someone. You must remember everything about her, the good and the bad, but we all love you and it is time to let go...Cal, it's time for you to let go."
For the first time since that day at the hospital, holding his and Hope's baby, Cal broke completely down. It was as though a giant festering emotional wound had erupted and his soul was pushing all of the poison out. Siobhan sat holding him saying nothing. She waited patiently until the sobbing of a grown man stopped and he was able to pull himself together.
"You're right, I know it's time to let go. I just loved her so much. I'd give anything to have her back; I just want to understand why Fate has done this to me. I know in my mind that I did nothing wrong, but emotionally I feel like I failed as a person somehow...that I failed Hope...that I failed myself. But you're right, I can't let what has happened to me ruin the rest of my life. I've been using you and the kids as an emotional crutch for too long... I need to stop depending on you so much. I'll start looking for a nanny to relieve you of the burdens."
"Cal, I love those children....I love you…more than ever before. I'd love a chance to see if we can have something even stronger. I've fed your son from my breast. You are just as much of my life as he is."
Cal looked at her, the look in her eyes filling him with warmth.
So, on Saturday night, Helen and James came down to babysit the kids and Cal took Siobhan out for a night of dinner and dancing.
When they got to the Grange Hall, they were both greeted by a throng of people. They got a table and Cal went to get them a couple of drinks. When he got seated, the local band started playing a slow number. Cal took Siobhan's hand and asked her to dance. They got on the floor and he took her in his arms. She sighed and looked up at him.
"In all these years, this is the first dance we've had."
Cal smiled. "Yeah, I guess it is."
Siobhan looked to the side. "You know, I seems like yesterday when you kicked open that door and killed those two jihadists."
"Yes, and a lot has happened since then," He sighed.
"But, you've always held a special place in my heart, Cal."
"Yeah, you've always seemed to be unobtainable though."
"Not any more," And she pulled his head down and gave him a soft kiss on the lips.
The song ended and they returned to our table.
"Thank you, thank you very much." The band leader said. Ladies and gentlemen, we are lucky tonight. Tonight, we have with us Miss Siobhan O'Malley. Siobhan has a beautiful voice and I'd like to invite her on stage to sing us a song. Siobhan, would you honor us?"
Everyone was cheering and whistling. Siobhan looked at Cal.
He nodded and grinned, "Go on, make me proud."
Siobhan walked up on stage and conferred with the band members and sang a Patsy Cline number.
Crazy I'm crazy for feeling so lonely I'm crazy Crazy for feeling so blue I knew You'd love me as long as you wanted And then some day You'd leave me for somebody new Worry Why do I let myself worry? Wondering What in the world did I do... Oh, crazy For thinking that my love could hold you... I'm crazy for trying And crazy for crying And I'm crazy for loving you
Everyone clapped and cheered. The crowd screamed for more. Cal guessed the band leader talked her into doing another song because they started playing again. Siobhan's next song was LeAnn Rhymes "How Do I Live."
How do I get through one night without you? If I had to live without you What kind of life would that be?
Oh, I, I need you in my arms, need you to hold You're my world, my heart, my soul and if you ever leave Baby you would take away everything good in my life And tell me now
How do I live without you? I want to know How do I breathe without you if you ever go? How do I ever, ever survive? How do I, how do I, oh, how do I live?
Without you there'd be no sun in my sky There would be no love in my life There'd be no world left for me
And I, baby, I don't know what I would do I'd be lost if I lost you, if you ever leave Baby, you would take away everything real in my life And tell me now
How do I live without you? I want to know How do I breathe without you if you ever go? How do I ever, ever survive? How do I, how do I, oh, how do I live?
Please, tell me, baby How do I go on if you ever leave? Baby, you would take away everything, I need you with me Baby, don't you know that you're everything good in my life? And tell me now
How do I live without you? I want to know How do I breathe without you if you ever go How do I ever, ever survive? How do I, how do I, oh, how do I live? How do I live without you? How do I live without you, baby? How do I live?
Siobhan looked at Cal throughout the whole song. All her hand gestures were to him. He could feel her love for him with every word she sang.
When the song was over, every male eye watched her as she glided across the floor and sat at Cal's table. Cal could only sit and stare in lustful awe. They put their arms around each other and lightly kissed. When they broke the kiss, they both said "I Love You."
Siobhan looked him in the eyes and said "I want to go home." When they walked into the cabin, Helen, with a disappointed look on her face, said "You're early! Is something wrong? Siobhan and Cal looked at each other and both said at the same time "No…"
James, noticing the look on their faces, took Helen's arm and said "Come on, let's go!"
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 17:11:47 GMT -6
Siobhan turned toward Cal and grasped his hands. Hardly daring to breathe, Cal leaned forward, carefully brushing his lips against hers, watching her face. She smiled gently and returned the pressure, their mouths now lightly joined, the touch exquisite. Their eyes closed at the same time and continued, both of them totally lost in the tender intensity of the moment. Cal placed a hand on her cheek, slowly, gently tracing her jaw line with his thumb. At that point, they both ran out of oxygen, breaking the kiss. Their fingers and toes were tingling. Chests heaving, they locked eyes, sighing, and smiling at the same moment. Brushing her bangs from her forehead, Cal bent to Siobhan again, slowly brushing his lips against hers, gradually increasing the intensity of the kiss. Siobhan pressed against him, her arms going around his shoulders, her tongue now insistently seeking his. Groaning in return, Cal pulled her tighter against his body, their mouths pressed tightly together, tongues lashing each other frantically. As they broke their kiss. Siobhan reached out to touch Cal's cheek. At that moment, Cal was torn in two, standing on a great divide. Against all odds, he had found someone to love, but his conscience was putting up a last, desperate stand, seeming to ask him, "Think, Cal, for God's sake, think. Is this what you really want? You can't go back from here. If you don't stop, you can be hurt again, too much will change, forever." They broke their kiss. Siobhan looked up at him. "Cal, I fell in love with you the very first time I saw you. When I couldn't have you, I reserved that part of my heart for you. I loved Jeff, he gave me some wonderful children, but you are the one who had most of my heart." Cal took the leap. "Siobhan, you have always owned a piece of my heart. I guess the time wasn't right, until now, for us to be together. I've watched you with the kids, and you are as much a real mother as they could ever have." She stood there, just looking into his eyes. Cal asked, "What are you thinking?" "I'm thinking that Amy and Evan are so lucky that you are their father," Siobhan answered. "They're lucky for an even better reason," he said. "What?" "They have you for a mother" he answered. She hugged him and they turned and walked to their respective bedrooms. Cal checked on the kids and was just starting to turn off the bedside lamp when there was a knock on the door. "Come in." Siobhan stuck her head around the door. "You lonely? "Not any more…."
The next morning, Cal and Siobhan were preparing breakfast. Cal turned to Siobhan, "You should make this house our home. Make whatever changes you think would help you feel comfortable. I know there are a lot of things Hope did and put here to make us a home, but you can change or get rid of anything you desire." "I like it as it is. I want a part of Hope to be here too." Siobhan said, finding it hard to breathe. "Anyway, a home isn't just a house, it is a place you love." She had never dreamed that he would make that kind of suggestion. The reality that they were going be sharing their lives from that day on came crashing down on her. She found that she rather liked the idea. "No, what I mean is, if you want to do things to make you feel more like your home, I'm okay with it. I love the things Hope did here. If you can see anything that would enhance things, feel free." Cal said. "You miss Hope, don't you?" They had never talked, in depth, about his feelings towards Hope. He had never brought the subject up out of fear that Siobhan would insist that he forget them. Nodding his head, he answered, "Yes. I miss her very much." "I'm glad to hear that," Siobhan said. Surprised by her reaction, Cal asked, "Why?" Siobhan gave him a small smile and then leaned over to kiss him. She answered, "I don't think I would like loving a man who could put his feelings for his late wife on a shelf like some sort of used toy. I want a man who loves with honesty. I want a man who loves forever." "I thought you would be jealous," Cal said. "I couldn't be jealous of her. She was my adopted sister. If she were still alive, we would probably have looked into that sister-wives thing," Siobhan said. Siobhan and Cal continued with the preparations when the Hatleys and Shaners showed up. Cal went to the shelter pantry and got another package of freeze-dried blueberries. When he got back Siobhan gave him a kiss on the lips. They turned to their visitors, who were staring with opened mouths. "What? I thought you all wanted us to be a couple!" Helen and Mary high-fived each other and squealed. "Finally!" "Have you set a date yet?" Mary asked. "Mary! We just got up!" Siobhan exclaimed. "Well, I don't want to wait too much longer for more grand kids!" Helen said. Siobhan, her mouth open in amazement, stared at Helen. Closing her mouth, she looked pleadingly at Cal. Cal walked into the family room, opened a drawer, and retrieved a small box and put it in his pocket. He walked back to Siobhan and went to a knee. She was watching as Cal drew his hand from his pocket. He saw her eyes get bigger and her hand went to her mouth. A moan was heard from behind her hand. He saw Helen and Mary look at them and their eyes get larger too. Cal held the engagement ring up and took Siobhan's left hand. He held it and looked her in the eyes as he asked, "Siobhan O'Malley, I've already told you many times how you make me feel and how much I enjoy you in my life and in my house. Siobhan, will you marry me? May I put this ring on your finger so the world will know you are my woman now?" Siobhan's lips were trembling, and he saw her mouth moving but no sound came from it. She did manage to nod her head and then Cal heard a very soft "Yes. Oh my God yes." She collapsed into his arms and he thought her kiss would never end. They finally broke the kiss and Siobhan began sobbing. Nonplussed, Cal put his arms around her and slowly rubbed her back. He hoped they were tears of happiness, at least she wasn't rejecting his touch. That was probably a good thing, he thought. He hoped. "Mommy Siobhan, what's wrong?" Amy asked, suddenly appearing at Siobhan's knee. She looked ready to cry herself. Amy had wandered down the hall to her bedroom to play when all the people came in. She'd come back when she heard Siobhan crying. Siobhan turned to Amy, still crying. She took the little girl in her arms to pick her up. See what Daddy gave me?" Siobhan asked Amy, holding her left hand out to display the white gold ring with the big diamond. "Isn't it pretty?" "Uh huh," Amy said dubiously. "Why did Daddy give it to you?" "Because we're going to get married, honey," Siobhan said, kissing Amy's cheek. "Isn't that great?" Amy thought about it for a moment, her eyes getting big. "Does that mean you'll be my forever Mommy and you and Daddy would sleep in the same bed?" Siobhan laughed and hugged Amy tighter. "It means you and me and Evan and Daddy are going to live together from now on as a family. Is that okay?" Amy understood that. She began to smile and gave Siobhan a big hug. Siobhan put Amy down, who immediately ran over to Helen. "Nana! We're going to be a family!" Helen, with tears in her eyes, picked up Amy and hugged her. Siobhan hugged and kissed Cal, then continued making breakfast.
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Post by cavsgt on Aug 3, 2021 19:03:24 GMT -6
I would like to say something profound and smart sounding but having a silver tongue is not my style. So once again WOW just WOW what a hell of a story so far, please continue.
THANK YOU for all of your hard work and time.
Phill
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Post by bluefox2 on Aug 3, 2021 19:05:29 GMT -6
When they got back to the Ranch, Andy asked Cal to meet him out by the picnic table. They finished unloading groceries and Cal took a couple of glasses of tea out. Andy laid out a topo map and showed him some changes they could make for physical security. The big thing was a cattle guard. "Cal, this is the cattle guard between Jonah and Martha's cabin and the main road. If we make it that so we can raise the cattle guard and lock it in, we can slow or stop any high-speed vehicle access to the main area. One sniper can hold them off indefinitely." They discussed it and decided a frame with a battery-powered remote-control winch would work. All you would have to do was hook the cable to the cattle guard and press the remote and the trap was set. The cattle guard was the width of the road and went over an 8-foot ditch. If anyone tried to cut the cable, they could be deterred with rifle fire. All other avenues of approach by foot could easily be protected by rifle fire. Cal approved the plan and Andy started to make up a component list. Cal told him to turn it over to James when completed. Frank Callas built another restaurant; well, not exactly a restaurant. Kind of a restaurant, dinner theater and honky-tonk all rolled into one. Frank invited the ranch clan to the grand opening on Friday night, so the Colemans, The Hatleys, and the Daleys made plans to go. They didn't plan to stay late so they took Amy also. They drove into the parking lot and when Cal saw the tour bus he muttered "Shit!" Hope asked, "What's wrong?" "Ahhhh, you'll soon find out." They went in and Frank rushed over to greet them. "Welcome my friends!" He escorted them over to a large table near the dance floor and stage. They were just getting seated when they heard someone squeal. Everyone turned toward the stage and a young woman came running toward Cal and launched herself into his arms. "Uncle Cal! Where did you come from!" She cried. " Hey cupcake. Long time, no see." "Everyone, this talented young lady is Lilly O'Malley." Everyone introduced themselves. "Does Mama know you're here?" "She does now!" A beautiful red-head lady came over to the table. "Hello Cal." "Everyone, I am pleased to introduce Siobhan O'Malley." He individually introduced everyone to Siobhan." "Cal and I go way back to…" "Siobhan, don't you have a show to get ready for?" "Oh hush, I've got secrets to tell your new wife!" "We'll visit later. Right now, we're starving."' "Okay, but you BETTER NOT LEAVE until we talk!" "I promise, we won't leave." "You had better not. You owe me. I'm collecting tonight. I've got a couple of numbers that are perfect." "Come on, Siobhan, it's been a long time!" "Yeah, too long, but you're going to do it!" She and Lilly walked off. Amy took a sip out of her cup and said, "Daddy, that lady is pretty!" "Cal, what was that all about?" Hope asked. "I'm sure, before the end of the night, you'll find out. Siobhan has a gift for gab." Hope looked at him suspiciously. The place was filling up fast. They ordered drinks and dinner which both were delivered quickly. "Siobhan…what a beautiful name. Irish isn't it?" Helen asked. "Yes, her grandfather was right off the boat." They had finished their dinner and the plates were cleared away. No one wanted dessert except Amy, so Hope got her a small piece of Strawberry Cheesecake. The girl who brought it over wasn't a waitress though. She placed the cheesecake in front of Amy and kissed Cal on the cheek. "Hi Uncle Cal!" "Hi Cathleen." "Momma sent me to get you ready." "Okay, just don't be too rough on me." Hope looked at Cal, puzzled. "Just wait" he said. Hope watched Cal go on stage. Helen asked, "What's going on?" "I don't know," Hope replied. She looked at the program brochure that the waitresses had handed out: Siobhan O'Malley - Vocalist, guitar, mandolin, harp Lilly O'Malley - Vocalist, mandolin, harp Cathleen O'Malley - Vocalist, fiddle, cello, harp Aileen O'Malley -Vocalist, keyboard, accordion Sean Grady - Vocalist, guitar, bass, bodhrán Aedan Grady - Vocalist, Banjo, guitar, bass, bodhrán These seemed to be some talented people! She looked back up and Cal and Cathleen were handling some instruments at the back of the stage.
Then, Cathleen started playing the fiddle, Cal began picking the banjo along with her. The others picked up the tune then Aedan started singing the lyrics: Summertime is past and gone And I'm on my way back home To see the only one I ever loved Now the room is shining bright It lights my pathway tonight Back to the only one I ever loved Oh I know she waits for me Back in ol' Tennessee She was sent to me from God above Now the moon is shining bright It lights my pathway tonight Back to the only one I ever loved When they finished, there was thunderous applause and whistling. When the applause died down, Siobhan stepped up to the microphone. "Good evening everyone. We are so honored to be here for Frank's grand opening. We got invited here in purely a round-about way. A friend of mine from Tennessee told me about the event, and a couple of other secrets that were being held from me…" She saw Cal try to sneak off the stage. "GRAB HIM CATHLEEN! DON'T LET HIM OFF THE STAGE!" Everyone started laughing. Siobhan continued, "Anyway, I was told that Cal Coleman had moved to your area. So, I invited us to be Frank's first act." Siobhan looked down a second, "Years ago, many more than I want to admit, a group of musicians were touring overseas, entertaining the troops. They were taken hostage by terrorists. The night of their captivity, the door to the room they were being held hostage in, suddenly burst open. A man came through, with a pistol in each hand, and made sure the terrorists would never be able to take hostages again….at least on this side of hell! The man, in a soft. but firm voice, said 'Ladies and gentlemen, would you follow me, please?' They were led outside to armored vehicles and taken to safety. I can attest that this actually happened because I was there. Some of you recently observed a similar act of bravery. Our rescuer was none other than Cal Coleman."
The place erupted with applause. Cal's face was a bright red. "I'm sorry Cal. I had to spring this like I did, otherwise you would have sneaked off and not let us acknowledge the good things you do." Someone shouted "Hip, Hip, Hurray!" Once the crowd quieted down, Siobhan continued, "I tried to find out who our handsome rescuer was, but he disappeared. I asked one of the guys in their headquarters and told me who he was. He told me that Cal did that 'crap' all the time but didn't want any recognition. I finally ran in to him a couple of years later, and we've been friends since; although, if he'd been interested, my last name could have been 'Coleman.' Over the years, Cal has been a frequent visitor to our home in Nashville and my kids love him to death." Aedan handed Cal a guitar and took a seat on a stool, while Lilly stepped up to the microphone. "I asked Uncle Cal to help us out with the next song. A few years ago, Uncle Cal was visiting our home. I was in our studio when he came in. There, on a table in the studio, was a stack of sheet music that I hadn't gone through yet. Uncle Cal was thumbing through the sheets and pulled out one sheet, a song recorded by Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers. He read through it for a second, then picked up a guitar off the stand and started playing. The tune sounded so sad I went over behind him and started reading the lyrics. I couldn't help myself, I started crying." She paused, wiping a tear from her eye. "I guess it's kind of silly, crying over a song, but when Uncle Cal finished playing, he looked up at me. He had tears in his eyes also. If you, or a friend or relative have lost a friend or loved one in their service to our country or community, this song may affect you also." "Ladies and gentlemen, The Last Parade." Cal began playing through one verse then Aedan started singing:
Didn't know the boy but I had to go. Knew his mom many years ago there were hundreds there and I was one come to pay respects to a fallen son. As I left my home, I took my flag and I took my place on the towns' main drag There were little kids and bikers there for a single cause to show they care
Thank you, son, for how you fought that day. Thank you, Mom, for the son you gave The least I can do is let old glory wave as the tears rained down on your last parade.
Grew up next-door to a friend of mine he played football offensive line Had a real good job for several years and he felt the need to volunteer
Thank you, son, for how you fought that day thank you, Dad, for the son you gave the least I can do is let old glory wave as it tears running down on your last parade
He married well on a summer day his anniversary was only weeks away Now he's laid to rest by his grandpa's grave as the veterans played Amazing Grace
On the other side of Heaven's Gate a horse rolled up with a brand-new saint and another son had met him there for his first parade in his New town Square
Thank you, son, for what you did that day Thank you, Lord, for the son you gave the least I can do is let glory wave as we gather around for the last paradeCal ended the song, playing the first six notes of the Star-Spangled Banner. Hope looked around, the room was dead silent. There were a lot of people with tears in their eyes, even grown men. All of a sudden, the silence broke with the crowd exploding with applause and whistling. It took a while for them to calm down. Cal placed the guitar back on its stand and made his way back to his table, but every few feet, someone would get up and shake his hand or give him a hug. Siobhan stepped back up to the mike. "I'm sure Cal's family had no clue to his musical talents, but I'm going to reveal another little secret to his wife. Cal can play any musical instrument on this stage, and then some. Don't let him fool you. He won't lie to you, but sometimes he won't tell you everything either. You've gotta squeeze him like a lemon! " The crowd laughed. A few songs later Siobhan sang a song written by Mary Black and recorded by Dolly Parton and also by Nanci Griffith. Siobhan's eyes we on Cal the whole time, or from her seat, that's what it looked like to Hope. I found your letter in my mailbox today You were just checkin' if I was okay And if I miss you, well, you know what they say
Just once in a very blue moon Just once in a very blue moon Just once in a very blue moon
And I feel one comin' on soon
No need to tell me, you'd like to be friends And help me get back on my feet again If I miss you at all, it's just now and then
Just once in a very blue moon Just once in a very blue moon Just once in a very blue moon
And I feel one comin' on soon
There's a blue moon shinin'
When I am reminded of all we've been through Such a blue moon shinin' Does it ever shine down on you? You act as if it never hurt you at all Like I'm the only one who's I' up from a fall Don't you remember? Can't you recall?
Just once in a very blue moon Just once in a very blue moon Just once in a very blue moon And I feel one comin' on soon Just once in a very blue moon And I feel one comin' on soon ... just once ... in a very... blue moonThe show finally ended at 11:00 PM. Siobhan and the band came over. They pulled a bunch of tables together so they could visit. Between Mary and Hope, Siobhan had the full story up to this point. Siobhan leaned into Cal and said low, "Cal, I'm sorry about Angela." He just nodded his head. They talked about this and that and he asked her what was going on with the O'Malleys. "Well, it looks like this tour we just finished will be the last for a while, if ever again." "What do you mean?" "The boys and Cathleen will be going off to college so that kind of breaks up the band. That just leaves Lilly, Aileen, and me. Besides, I'm tired. Since Jeff passed away, I just don't have that spark anymore. Besides, Nashville has gotten so cutthroat, it's not as fun as it used to be. I'm looking to move away from the scene, somewhere near where the kids go to college." "Well, where are you planning to move to?" Grinning, she poked Hope and said, if this chickee hadn't wrapped up your heart, I would be moving here!" Hope laughed. "Don't let that stop you! It's taking more than me to ride herd on him to keep him out of trouble. Still, he manages somehow." Siobhan thought for a minute. "I guess I could start looking for a house." Hope poked Cal. She looked at him like she was saying "Go ahead!" "Siobhan why don't you and the crew come out to the Ranch and stay with us for a couple of days. I want to show you around and you can make your decision then." "Do you even have room for all of us?" Siobhan asked. Hope chuckled, "I think we can accommodate you." Ok, the last couple of chapters failed to have the proper "Blurry Screen Virus" warning prominently posted at the top. Especially for "The Last Parade" I have been that guy standing with the flag for many of those paradvery Well Done Sir.es over the years, including as NCOIC of a military Honor Guard and Funeral details. I have not however heard that song. I may have to find it on line and listen to it.
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Post by paulk on Aug 3, 2021 19:20:03 GMT -6
Soooo gooood !!
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 21:17:19 GMT -6
Cal carried a satchel to the bunkhouse to talk to the guys. He found them around the table drinking coffee.
Any action lately?" Cal asked.
"Nothing." Slade said. "Gangs and drugs are hard to find these days."
"Well, I figure you've done the job." Cal opened the satchel and made four stacks of gold.
"Each stack is 55t oz of gold, equal to $100,000 and change. I really appreciate what you did."
"Jesus! I wasn't expecting that!"
"I pay for the job. I couldn't have ask for a better crew."
"Cal, do you mind if we stick around for a while? We got nothing coming up and thought we'd get a little R&R in."
"Stay as long as you like. I want you guys to think of this as a retreat site in case the SHTF."
"Do you mind if we store some stuff here in the basement?"
Cal smiled, "I need to take you guys on a tour."
Cal showed them the whole operation. They had some extra guns they wanted to store in the gun room. "I can get you a deal on just about any ammo you want." Knight said.
Cal told him the calibers they had in rifle pistol and shotgun. He wanted 25,000 rounds of every caliber and size. Knight said it would be no problem. Cal had a a room set aside for excess ammo storage. All the Ranch Ladies were in full-blown planning mode. Cal just stayed out of their way and let them tell him what, when and where.
Well, it looked like the wedding would be in three weeks. It looked to be larger than than Hope and Cals wedding. Cal was just told what he needed to know and how much money to shell out.
The next day, Cal had come in from the milk house, after cleaning a couple of dozen eggs he'd gotten out of the chicken nests and found Siobhan, Helen, Mary and Martha in a huddle in the kitchen drinking coffee. He poured himself a cup and leaned up against the counter and listened as they fine-tuned the wedding plans. Amy came running in and grabbed her Daddy by the arm.
"Daddy, can you and Mommy go riding with me?"
The women snapped a look at Cal; Martha's hand went to her mouth. He just shrugged at them.
"Baby, I'd love to go riding with you, but Mommy may be busy right now." He looked at Siobhan. She got up and came over and hugged Amy.
"Honey, let me change clothes and I'll be right with you." Siobhan said, her eyes misting.
"Okay Mommy, I'll get Paw Paw Jonah to saddle the horses," Amy said, and went running out door.
"Oh Lands!" Martha said. "When did she start calling you 'Mommy?'"
Siobhan just shook her head. "This was the first time," She started calling me 'Mommy Siobhan' recently, this is the first time she's called me 'Mommy'", a tear rolling down her cheek. Cal took her in his arms and gave her a big hug.
"Go get dressed, we'll go for a family ride."
"We'll watch Evan," Mary said,
Siobhan turned around. "No, I've got the Papoose carrier. We'll ride as a family." The wedding went great. Cal didn't realize that many people were going to show up, or the impact it would have on some of the couples. Ben asked Maria to marry him and Andy asked Ellen for her hand. Local law enforcement personnel formed an honor guard outside the church and hundreds of birds got fat on the quinoa that was thrown in leu of rice. The ladies did good.
Siobhan and Cal took a few days in Vegas for a honeymoon. They didn't want to stay longer because they missed the kids. Cal and Siobhan did talk to Amy every night and Helen and James were spoiling the hell out of them. To save the kids from irreparable damage, they went home a little early.
When they got back, it was after 8:00 PM so they left the kids at Helen's and just stayed at home. Siobhan remarked that Cathleen and Lilly had moved her clothes and personal items into their bedroom. The two opened a bottle of wine and sat on the porch, enjoying the night air.
Cal put his arm around Siobhan and told her he loved her.
She kissed him on the neck. "I love you more than yesterday, and that's how I feel every day. This is where I wanted to be 20 years ago."
"Cal, I haven't been on birth control." Siobhan said.
He looked at her." You trying to get pregnant?"
"She smiled. "Yes, if you don't mind."
"I don't mind at all; as a matter of fact, I'm thrilled at the idea."
She pulled Cal's head down and kissed him. "Well, my darling husband, you have some work to do.
He did and they did.
"Cal, you got a minute?" Jonah said as he got out of his truck. "Anytime Jonah,"
"Jeb Collins is cutting back on his herd and won't be leasing that part of our grazing land next year." Jonah explained.
"How many cows is he running there now?" I asked.
"That there land will handle about 135 cows."
"That means he's going to sell at least 135 cows. It's going to cost him to round them up and ship them to market. See what he'll sell them to us for. I want to extend our meat production a little. I'm also going to build a hay shelter and that'll store 250 round bales to keep a couple of years hay on hand."
"Where you getting the hay?" Inquired Jonah.
"Indiana. I know a guy that runs a hay operation there."
"When are you getting the hay shed built."
"I'll dig the holes next week and Calbert's crew will come in and pour the footings and install the frame and roof. I wanted all wood and fiberglass roof. Too much danger with lightning strikes. I'm having them side the north and west sides leave the east and southern sides open."
Jonah rubbed his chin. "You'll need to get a hay spike attachment for the tractor."
"Nah, I'm getting a couple of Bobcat Toolcats with assorted attachments. I'll need you to go over them with me to make sure I don't forget anything."
"Will do. Well, I'm going down to take care of the horses." Jonah said.
About that time Amy came busting out of the door.
"Paw Jonah! Can I go with you to brush Pinky?"
"Why sure Buttercup. Let's go get your rubber boots on." Jonah said, smiling.
Cal called Dave on the radio and asked him to help lay out and mark the holes for the hay shed. Slade and Jimbo showed too. Cal explained what he wanted and set up a surveyor's transit. Cal would align Dave with the surveying rod and Slade and Jimbo would pull the measuring tape and mark the location of the post hole. We were done in an hour. He took the surveying instruments back to the tool room and we attached the auger to the tractor. Slade and Jimbo volunteered to dig the holes so Dave and Cal headed to Cal's cabin. As they came by the bunkhouse, Knight and Drake were sitting on the porch. "Hey Cal, you got anything for us to do? We're a little short of something to keep us from getting bored.
"You want to dig for some gold?" Cal smiled.
"Hell Yes!" They both said.
So, they all went to the shelter and Cal introduced them to the machinery. They measured and marked out another bedroom and moved the grinding machinery and set it up. After putting up a dust curtain, Cal turned it on. The curtain was necessary because the excavator turned the rock into a fine sand. He explained the timer and the rate of grind. They caught on quickly. It was fairly simple. Cal then took them to the sluice, and they ran about 8 yards of pay dirt and showed them how that worked. They took the mats out and washed them and ran the contents of the tank through the Gemini Table. Cal didn't expect much, and there wasn't. They ended up with 93 grams, about $5400 worth of gold. The guys were amazed and volunteered to take over mining excavation operations for a while. Cal told them they would only run the excavator during the daytime because it was impossible to sleep with those things running. As it was, the kids took their naps in the cabin while the excavation was in process.
Cal went into Grand Junction and purchased the Bobcats, Buckets, trenchers, snow V blade, snow blower, snow bucket, heavy duty bucket hay fork, and steel tracks. They would be delivered in a couple of days. He was glad they had the hangar. He had plenty of room to store everything
They were continuously harvesting products from the greenhouses and gardens, Dawn's herbs, both fresh and dried, were a big hit at the market. Very seldom did they return with anything left. If they did, it went into the compost pile. Cal and Jonah kept the piles turned for them and kept a garden cart full of finished compost they could add as needed.
Ben and Maria had a nice wedding. Frank gave them a trip to Greece for their honeymoon. Upon their return, she moved out to the ranch with Ben. When she was off duty, Maria helped the other ladies with food processing and gossiped right along with them.
The economy was getting worse. Dawn kept her prices a little lower than most, so sales were still excellent. However, she still had to drop prices a couple of times. They all sat down and decided what needed to be done. Cal and Jonah would start laying on spare parts, oils and filters for maintenance. Andy and the "Four Horsemen" would see what upgrades in security, weapons, ammo and equipment. The ladies put together a list of sewing supplies, personal hygiene items and food storage supplies that they needed to stockpile. More food was freeze-dried, dehydrated, and canned, boxed in cartons, sealed and labeled. These were stored in the food storage rooms in the shelter and added to the inventory. The ladies were also putting together one week's bundles of food for a family of four and gave 12 bundles to each the City Police and the Sheriff's Department to give out for humanitarian purposes. Every time a trailer went into town, it came back full of supplies.
The hay arrived and it was placed in the shed. They rebranded the cattle and Jonah and Dave kept an eye on them. Everything was going smoothly, but Cal knew it wouldn't last.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 21:20:52 GMT -6
The first sign of trouble came the next week. Cal had gone into town to pick up a couple cases of oil filters and ran into the Sheriff. "Dan, how's it going?" Cal said as he shook his hand. "Cal, things aren't as good as I'd like.," Sheriff Masters replied. "What's going on?" "There has been an upswing in cattle thefts. Somebody has been coming in with 18-wheelers and rustling whole herds. I was afraid something like that would happen, with the economy the way it is. They haul off a couple of trucks full of cattle, butcher them, then make a killing selling at less than market prices."' "We'll keep an eye out Dan, and let you know if we see anything suspicious." Cal got the filters and headed back to the Ranch. When he got back to the Ranch, he got on the radio and called in Andy, Dave, Jonah, and the Four Horsemen. "Guys, we may have a problem developing." He relayed the information the Sheriff had given him. "What's our mission, Cal?" Andy asked. "I want everyone to draw an M1A1 with a basic load of AP ammo and a GPS. I've already pre-loaded waypoints in on every major terrain feature on the Ranch, and then some. If you spot the rustlers, call everyone on the Tact 1 channel and give us the waypoint and direction. If they start to leave before we get there, fire a round through the engine block. They'll probably be using 28-wheelers and pick-ups. Take out the pick-ups first, then the big trucks. We want them on foot. Then we just call up the Sheriff and let them handle the rest. Use the horses and make sure you take water." They went to the Gun Room and drew their equipment. Cal told Siobhan what was going on and they went to saddle the horses. Cal got everyone's attention. "This just a preliminary patrol. I want us to buddy up into twos. If you see a point that you think should be a waypoint, then add it to your GPS. I can consolidate everyone's new information and reprogram all the GPs units later. Watch for signs of activity. After today, we'll send out a two-man patrol in the most likely areas. I want everyone back here by 1700." As the teams reported back, no one had anything to report. Andy and Dave arrived about 10 minutes later. "We found some Jeep tracks up to the northwest that were a day old." Andy reported. "Okay, we'll keep an eye on that area. We can send a 2-man patrol out there tomorrow, and a full patrol every day. Let me have the GPS units and I'll consolidate data and reprogram them." They took care of the horses and went to their cabins. When Cal went into the cabin kitchen Siobhan and Mary were there. "Hi Honey," he said, kissing Siobhan. "Dinner's ready, as soon as you have washed up." Siobhan replied. Amy ran up, holding her arms in the air for me to pick her up. "Daddy, Mommy and Aunt Helen have been wearing pistols all day!" "That's because they love you and want to keep you safe." He explained to her. Cal went and washed up, but paused a bit to play with Evan. He was really in a growth spurt. Jim walked in and went to wash up. Then Cathleen, Lilly, Aedan, Aileen and Sean walked in. "I hope you've got enough grub to feed these wayward waifs!" I laughed. "Mary smiled. "This was pre-planned. It's been a while since we all ate together." Cal frowned. "It has been! Why don't we have a cookout Saturday? We've got a lot of steaks we need to rotate out of the freezer." Siobhan raised her eyebrows. "Let's make it burgers and dogs. We were wanting to freeze-dry the rotatable meat." Cal shrugged. "Sounds fine." He turned to the younger O'Malleys and Gradys. "You guys want to bring dates, that's fine." Cathleen, Lilly ,and Aileen came over and gave Cal a hug. "Thanks Dad." Aileen said. He stepped back a half-step. "Wha.." "Hey, we like it better than calling you Uncle Cal. Less letters too." Cathleen grinned. Cal looked over at Siobhan and she just shrugged and smiled. A gnat must have flown in his eye and he turned away to clear it. Picking up Evan, Cal placed him in his chair and Amy in her booster seat. Siobhan and the girls served the dinner. Cal was up early the next morning and had the GPS units reprogramed when Andy and Dave came in. He poured them coffee and they sat at the table. "What's with the women all packing pistols? Dawn and Ellen even took a couple of shotguns with them to the greenhouse." Dave asked. Cal shrugged. "Hey, whatever makes them feel safe. They know there's a threat, they don't want it effecting their lives." He said. Andy and Dave left on their patrol. Cal took Amy and they went to check on the chickens and gather eggs. Amy was becoming quite the little ranch hand. She carried her own little basket with eggs to the Milk House where they washed and stored the eggs in the cooler. She knew exactly what to do, a couple of times correcting Cal. They finished up and headed back home. Cal's radio broke squelch…" STARBURST 6 NOVEMBER ECHO WHISKEY PAPA 43." Andy and Dave had found the rustlers. Cal saw the Four Horsemen run for the barn. Jonah's pick-up came sliding to a stop in the drive. "Cal, I bet they've got the cattle herded into that small box canyon there." Jonah yelled. Cal grabbed his gear and they hurried down to the barn. The guys had already saddled the horses. Cal called Siobhan on Channel 2, which all the women monitored. He told her that 6 rustlers had been spotted at Waypoint 43 and to call the Sheriff. She would take the coordinates off the GPS.
They mounted and rode off. It would take them about 30 minutes to reach the area. Cal called Andy. "What's the situation?" "They have the cattle herded into a small canyon and are setting up portable fencing to drive them into the trucks." Andy reported. "They have two 18-wheelers, a box truck, two pickups, and two ATVs. We are in position to take out the two pick-ups and the ATVs." "Roger," Cal said. "We'll be there in 20 minutes." They spotted Andy and Dave's horses and dismounted with them. Andy came trotting over to the group. "They've just started loading cattle, and they are all armed." Andy panted. "Okay," Cal said. "I want three rounds of AP tracer into each engine. We don't have to kill anyone, and the Sheriff is on the way. They'll be here before those buzzards can walk out to the highway. When I break squelch twice, open fire." They all got into good positions and waited until the rustlers had just about filled the first truck. When Cal broke squelch twice, it sounded like a full-bore firefight. The rustlers hit the ground and got under cover. The box truck and one of the pick-ups must have been diesel, because their engines were only smoking. The other pick-up and the ATVs caught fire. The rustlers must have figured the gig was up. They took off their guns and sat by one of the rigs. It took the 4 Sheriff's vehicles 45 minutes to reach them. The Four Horsemen maneuvered down and had the rustlers at gunpoint. Cal rode down and met the Sheriff. "Neat, neat, Cal." The Sheriff smiled. "I'm going to look into making you all Auxiliary Deputies!" Cal grinned. "Thanks, I'll keep my day job, but we're happy to help out when we can." The Deputies had the prisoners flex-cuffed and were loading them into their SUVs. "Cal, I'll have some wreckers come out and remove these vehicles. You can have the fencing." Sheriff Masters said. "Okay Sheriff. Just give us a heads-up when they're coming." He said. They left the deputies to gather their evidence and removed the cattle from the truck. As they were riding back to the compound, Jonah rode up beside Cal. "Cal, I need to talk to you." Jonah said. "What's up, Jonah" "The reason Sid Johnson on the Circle B isn't renewing the grazing lease this year is because both he and his wife have cancer. His kids all live around Denver and want Sid and their mother up there with them. The problem is, Terry Davis, who's been leasing our Ranch Manager's house, will be out of a job." Cal thought for a minute, the looked at Jonah. "What do you recommend?" "Well, I don't want to put words in your mouth," Jonah said "but I'd look at getting a couple hundred more head and let Terry run them for you. He could still provide for his family." They rode on a little way. "How many cattle do you think we could run on the range we have, and what could Terry and you handle?" Cal asked. "Oh, we could run around 500 head between us. The range could handle a couple thousand." Jonah replied. Cal squinted at him. "Let me think this over. I'll get back to you."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 21:22:54 GMT -6
When they got back to the compound, the ladies met them. Siobhan hugged Cal with a sigh of relief. "Are you okay?" she asked.
"Sure, we had them by the family jewels, and no one was ever in any danger." He smiled.
They went into the cabin and ate a late lunch. When they finished, Cal said, "Let's get the kids and go for a walk."
Siobhan put Evan in his papoose carrier and Cal took Amy's hand and off they went.
They had been walking for a while when Siobhan said, "Okay, what's on your mind?"
Cal told her about his concerns about the economy and the world situation; about how he wanted to make sure the ones they cared about wouldn't suffer. He wanted them to be as self-sustaining as they could be. Cal then told her about his conversation with Jonah.
"Well, that's a no-brainer!" Siobhan exclaimed. "Get the cattle, give the man a job, get him a home built."
"How did you know about the house?" Cal asked.
"That's no surprise. You like to have family close. You've been walking around looking for a good house site. That Managers house is over 80 years old. With the climate getting colder, it would cost more to fix up that house than to build a new one, especially with your 'Cal Coleman' discount with the builders. Plus, it would put them within the security zone of the compound."
Cal grinned at her. "When did you become such a mind reader?" I said.
"When you love someone, you can see in their heart what they want," Siobhan said as she kissed him.
Cal caught up with Jonah later that afternoon. "Let's go talk to Terry tonight after dinner. Give him a call and find out a good time we can visit."
"Jonah grinned. "Sure thing, Boss!"
"Jonah, let me get one thing straight. Terry works for you. You're still the chief cowpuncher on this spread. You'll be getting a raise and you figure out what I should pay Terry." Jonah nodded.
Jonah, Siobhan and myself met with Terry and his wife Alice that night. Cal told him he wanted to hire him, and they discussed his plans. When Cal mentioned the cabin, Alice's eyes got moist. Cal told them they needed to tell them their needs and that they would work with Siobhan on the plans. He told them to take their time, but the quicker they made up their minds, the quicker they would get their house. Siobhan offered to take Alice to visit the other ladies to see how their cabins were laid out.
That done, Cal spoke with Jonah about a bigger barn. Jonah agreed they were growing out of the one they had and recommended a barn site. Cal had nothing pressing so he put the dozer blade attachment on one of the Bobcats and started extending the driveway to the Davis' build site and the new barn. He leveled the roadbed and started spreading gravel and compacting everything. It took him most of the day to do that and he still ran out of gravel. He'd used 60 cubic yards of gravel and it looked like he needed 80. Cal called the gravel pit and ordered another 100 cubic yards to be stockpiled. He detached the loader bucket and attached the road conditioner and did the rest of the drives.
At 5:00 that evening he put the equipment away and went to the cabin to wash up for dinner. Oh Lord! The whole gaggle convention was there! Every woman on the compound was in the Family Room talking about curtains, room sizes, flower beds, you name it. Cal scooted on by and went to get cleaned up. He was dusty from the grading, so he took a quick shower. He put on some running shorts and a t-shirt and a pair of running shoes and went to the kitchen. Siobhan was there with Amy and Evan.
Giving him a kiss, she asked, "Hungry?"
Giving her a hug, he replied, "Absolutely! But I'll eat first."
"Shush!" Siobhan said, slapping him on the arm.
" Mommy hit Daddy!" Amy yelled.
Lilly came in from the Family Room. "What's wrong?" she asked.
"Oh, your Father was getting fresh!"
Lilly giggled. "Chill out Dad, it's still early!
"Lilly!" Siobhan squealed.
Martha and Helen came in.
"Well, I think we've got everything covered. We've got a list of things that the Davis family needs to bring them up to par with the rest of the Compound. They just need their cabin built." Helen said.
Turning to the ladies Cal nodded, "I'll call it in tomorrow morning."
Lilly, Aileen and Cathleen stayed for dinner.
"Dad, you have been stock-piling all sorts of things for bad times, but I don't see anything for school supplies." Cathleen said.
Cal looked up at her, puzzled.
"I mean, if things got really bad, the kids here wouldn't be able to go to school. There's a School Tools store in town where we could pick up some things." Cal looked at everyone. "Good thinking. That hadn't even crossed my mind. Now you've talked yourself into another project. I want you to make a list of supplies for students K through 12. Pencils, paper, books, etc."
Siobhan broke in. "I have an OBGYN appointment Saturday morning at 9:00. We girls could go and do some window shopping also."
"I thought we were having a cookout Saturday." Cal frowned.
Siobhan rubbed his arm. "That's not until 3:00. We'll be back in plenty of time."
While the girls cleaned up, Cal went into the Family Room and played with Evan and Amy. , The barn was well under way. Cal had chosen a post and beam design. They could build it bigger than they could with logs. Also, they could seal it well enough for an over-pressure and air handling unit. Because the economy was so slow, the company was more than happy to put double crews on the job to give work to their people, and Cal was more than willing to pay a bonus to get the job done quicker. The Davis cabin was almost complete, and the ladies were itching to get started furnishing and decorating.
Terry and Alice came to talk with Cal one day.
"Cal, we feel kind of funny you doing all this for us. All the house furnishings, the cabin, it seems a bit much." Alice said.
"Alice, Terry. I'm not doing this for charity. You are members of our team…our Family. Anyone who falls under the family umbrella gets treated the same. You two are going to be a big help and already are. So, I don't want you to feel "funny" about anything. Just pitch in and be members of our family. As far as the furnishings are concerned, I want to leave the old house fully furnished. There may be a family that needs a place sometime."
Alice cried and gave Cal a "Thank You" hug. Terry shook his hand.
"By the way Terry, where did the Circle B get their hay. I'm in the market for 500 square bales. That will fill the new barn loft."
"They got their hay from 2H Farms. Right here in Mesa County." Terry replied.
"Good, can you handle that for me?"
"I'm on it, Cal!" The barn and cabin were finally finished. Everyone pitched in and helped the Davis family move. Cal also threw in a Bobcat UV34 for their use. They had furnished every cabin with one by now. Diesel powered, they fit right in at the Ranch. The Dealer gave Cal a BIG discount when he bought them, and they were convenient for good transportation.
As a celebration for the Davis family moving in, they held another cookout. The women would find any excuse for a family gathering. They even had to expand their BBQ area and build another huge table. The college kids brought their significant others also.
Cal was sharing a beer with Slade, Drake and Jimbo.
"Where's Knight?" I asked.
"Went to pick up his date." Jimbo answered.
"Date! Cal exclaimed. "Where did he find someone to date him?"
Slade laughed.
"He met this schoolteacher and he's gone nuts," Jimbo said.
About that time Knight drove up. He helped a lady out of the truck, and they walked up to the BBQ area.
"Hey everyone!" Knight shouted to get everyone's attention. "I want you to meet Kathy Simpson."
Everyone smiled and the women swooped in to talk to her. Knight grabbed a beer and came over to Cal's group.
"This is a new and unusual development." Cal smiled.
"Yeah, well, I decided to resign from the 'He Man Woman Haters Club.' Brenda almost ruined me, but Kathy has made me see the Light."
"They all looked at him. He did seem meeker. The boy was in love!
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 21:31:56 GMT -6
Siobhan had taken Kathy around and was individually introducing her to everyone. When they finally reached them, Siobhan introduced her to Slade and Jimbo, then Cal. As she shook Cal's hand, she said, "Oh, you are much shorter than I envisioned." Cal looked at her, puzzled. "The way Bill talks about you, I thought you would be at least 8 feet tall!" Both Knight and Cal blushed. Siobhan giggled. "These guys tell so many tall tales about each other, you can never tell what IS the truth." Kathy faked a surprise look. "Then I can't believe Bill when he tells me how he feels about me?" "Hey now…" Knight stammered. Kathy hugged his arm. "Just kidding, Sweetheart!" Siobhan and Kathy moved on. Cal turned to Knight. "Sweetheart! Should I get another cabin started?" Knight scrubbed his toe in the dirt, blushed, and looked at Cal. "Would you mind?" "I wouldn't want it any other way, unless Kathy has other ideas." Cal said. "Oh, she loves it around here and loves teaching." Cal nodded. "Well, I'll go ahead and get one started. If things don't work out, we'll still have a cabin ready." "I thought I'd ask her today." Knight blushed. "Why don't you take her for a little walk. Find a good spot that has a nice view and ask her if she'd like to wake up each morning to that view…you know, open the ball." "Knights eyes got big. "Good idea!" "Don't hurry," Cal said. "Get something to eat first or you'll be sick on your stomach." Jimbo and Slade laughed. Knight left to get something to eat with Kathy. "Boy, I hope someday to find a woman that makes me feel that way." Jimbo said. "Well, you're not going to find a woman like that trolling the titty bars." Slade laughed. Cal walked over to get something to eat. Siobhan pulled him aside. " We're going to need another cabin. She's head over hills in love with him." She whispered. " I know, He's going to take her for a walk and look at the views and ask her to marry him." Cal whispered back. "OK, if she says yes, I'm going to snatch her and take her and Ellen to their cabin for her to look at. I think one like that would be perfect for them. Then they can plan their wedding date for when the cabin's finished." Siobhan said. "My, aren't you the little wedding planner," Cal grinned. "Hush! There they go!" About an hour later, Knight and Kathy returned, arms around with each other. Knight was grinning like a mule eating briars. Kathy proudly showed her engagement ring and Siobhan squealed and hugged her. Everyone gave their congratulations. Siobhan got Ellen, grabbed Kathy's hand, and announced they would be back. They took off in one of the 34s. Knight, stunned looked at Cal. "What's going on?" "They've gone to pick out their cabin style." "But I…" "Don't even go there. Trust me. Just let the women handle those type things and you'll be a lot happier." Cal laughed. About 45 minutes later, the girls returned. Siobhan and Kathy walked over to the men. Siobhan nodded to Cal. "She loves the cabin. However, they want to get married right away. Do you think they could use the Manager's house until the cabin is finished?" Both Kathy and Knight looked at Cal, pleadingly. "What am I thinking! Of course, you can. Kathy needs to be near to conspire with the other women." Siobhan said. Cal turned to Knight. "Stick a fork in you, you're done!" Siobhan slapped my arm. "Stop it!" Kathy laughed. "Well, you've picked the cabin style you want, when do you plan to get married?" Cal asked. Kathy looked at night. "Next weekend? We are on summer break from school." Knight agreed. "Is it all right to start moving some of my things into the house? The lease on my apartment is up at the end of the month." Kathy asked. "Of course, you can! If you need the Unimog to move things, or a trailer, feel free to use them. And you might think about switching to a diesel engine vehicle. Everyone here has switched because you can fill up here." Kathy looked at Knight. "I already have a diesel Jeep." Cal smiled. Then you're set. If you need anything let us know, or better yet, Bill, if it needs to be done, do it. Let me know after the fact. Jimbo, Slade, Drake and Cal went to check on the excavator. It was finished with the timed pass, so they reset it to make another run. They'd need two more to finish this room. They'd left support columns at pre-determined locations because of its 30x40 foot size. "What are you planning to do with this room Cal?" Drake asked. "An activity area for the kids. I'm going to grind the columns a little smoother up to the 6-foot level and apply a rubber sheeting to protect innocent heads. The floor will get a coat of leveler and cork tiles applied. We'll smooth the walls and a different color cork tile on the walls up to the 4-foot level, then a thicker cork tile to the ceiling." They started moving pay dirt to the sluice. Drake started the sluice and they all pitched in filling the hopper. Jimbo grabbed the shop vacuum and vacuumed around the area and dumped it into the hopper. Once everything had been run through, they washed the mats and ran everything through the Gemini Table. In the end, they had recovered 112t oz from this area, so far. Cal wanted to take the bars he had in the cache and what they had recovered so far and turn them in for cash and bullion. With what he had in the cache, there was around 4 million dollars' worth of gold. He needed to make a run to Denver.
Andy and Cal left the next morning to go to Denver. Cal had contacted the gold buyers the day before and coordinated the transaction, telling them what he wanted. They'd call them 30-minutes before their arrival so they could have guards and carts waiting. Cal and Andy were through by 11:30, so they grabbed some fast food and headed home. When Cal arrived home, Amy came running up to him with a picture she had colored. She still wasn't able to keep her coloring within the lines yet, but he hugged her and told her how good she did. Cal took a magnet and they put it on the refrigerator. Cal kissed Siobhan and Evan and got ready for dinner.
After dinner, they cleaned up the kitchen and went in to watch some TV. "The crews came today and excavated the basement for the Knights house." Siobhan said. "Wow! That was quick!" Siobhan smiled, "Money and reputation talks. You have been a VERY GOOD customer. By the way, Frank wants us to do a gig Saturday night. Will you play with us?" Cal thought for a second, "Sure, what about the kids?" " Helen said she and James would come down and sit with them. I think everyone else is planning to go to Frank's." "Speaking of kids, we're about through with the room I am working on. Once we get the tile and wall coverings up, the women need to figure out what to furnish it with. Talk to Kathy about educational stuff and maybe some computer learning programs for kids too." Siobhan nodded. "I'll bring it up during our next coffee klatch." Cal poked Siobhan, "I want to have a pig picking next weekend. I can get a pig and smoke it in the smoker. I'll depend on you ladies to work on the fixings." "We can do that, have you thought about raising your own pigs?" "I thought about it. But we would have to buy feed for them, and they would be a lot of work. I'd rather buy them on the hoof. We could buy a lot of pork loins at Sam's Club and freeze-dry them though." Siobhan nodded. "We need to thin out the chickens also. I want to boil them, get the fat off them and freeze-dry the meat. We can freeze-dry the broth, but we'll need to keep it in the freezer because of the fat content." "I'll start on that tomorrow. That big pot in the pantry will hold four whole chickens at a time. That's about what one of the dryers will handle." Siobhan nodded. "We're canning collard greens tomorrow, but the chickens won't hinder us. We can boil those in the shelter. I'm cooking the collards out here." They sat there until it was time to put the kids to bed. Siobhan took Cal's hand and pulled him into their bedroom and closed the door.
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Post by texican on Aug 3, 2021 21:37:38 GMT -6
Why weren't Hope and Mary not armed and trained not to mention all of the clan with the deterioration of society? Bad planning by Cal even with all he was doing. Situational awareness at all times regardless of where you are for any location can deteriorate and become dangerous and lethal quickly.
Cal now has a third wife and two children. More children to follow?
When will there be detailed defense and offensive training and drills for the clan, situational awareness training and how to respond including fleeing, fighting positions, coordination for repealing attacks and makeup of force crews and lots and lots more. Hard to defend without training and drills.
Texican....
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 21:45:52 GMT -6
Jonah got a pig and he and Dave cleaned it. Drake took over the cooking/smoking of it. He made up a basting sauce of his own secret condiments and spices. They took out one of the smoker racks and laid the pig on it. Drake began injecting the sauce into the pig. Cal stuffed the cavity with apples, oranges and onions and using sailor's needle, sewed the carcass shut. Drake put a cooler of beer beside the picnic table and set up his lounge chair and timer. He got the fire going in the smoker and when the temperature reached 250 degrees, they loaded the pig in. It was just 5:00 PM, but he wanted to cook the pig 16 hours on a low heat. They sat there talking for a bit when Knight and Kathy drove up. They were probably going to check out the progress on the cabin. A third person got out of the Jeep and they walked over to the gathering. Kathy spoke, "Cal, Drake, I'd like you to meet Ariel Deavers. Ariel, this is Cal Coleman and Mike Drake. They both shook her hand. Mike was stunned. Not being able to talk, he just stood there and stared. Ariel slowly took her hand out of Drake's and blushed.
"Cal, we are going to go up and check the cabin site progress." Kathy grinned.
"Well, it's getting toward evening. If there are any rattlesnakes out, they will be stirring. Drake, you've got your pistol on, why don't you walk up with them, just in case?"
Drake looked at Cal, then looked at Ariel.
"I…uh…"
Cal grinned; "I'll watch the meat. We want to be careful, you know."
They took off. Siobhan came out with the kids.
"I saw that! Are taking up matchmaking as another job?"
Cal laughed. "You should have seen Drake's face. I thought he was going to swallow his tongue. She is beautiful, though."
"Well, if she shows interest in him, we will invite her to visit a couple of cabins and see what she likes. We can get a jump on the game. Andy and Ellen have a beautiful layout, we can point them there first."
Cal smiled. "Don't get ahead of yourself, Mrs. Matchmaker."
Siobhan sat with Cal, playing with the kids until they returned. Cal introduced Ariel and Siobhan.
Kathy winked at Cal and said, "We stopped by Andy and Ellen's to see the layout, so Ariel could see what the inside of our cabin was going to look like."
"Well, Ariel, what did you think?"
"Oh! I was beautiful! I would love to have something like that one day!" Ariel exclaimed.
Cal glanced at Drake and he had turned white.
Siobhan, watching, said. "Ariel, we're having a pig picking tomorrow. Why don't you come out around noon?"
Ariel smiled. "Why thank you! I'd like that."
Drake jumped in. "I could come pick you up, Ariel, if you'd like."
Ariel turned to him and smiled. "You don't have to do that; I know the way. I mean, unless you want to."
Drake grinned. "I'd like that very much."
"Let me write down my address and phone number," and they walked to Knight's truck.
"Whoa! That was quick!" Cal said. Kathy looked at Siobhan. "I'll find out how serious she is." Kathy came up early the next morning to help with preps for the pig picking.
"Siobhan! That girl is CRAZY about Mike! She wouldn't talking about him last night.
Cal laughed at the two excited women. "Hey! Let's at least wait until the end of the day before we make them get married."
Siobhan frowned. "What? Don't you want to see them happy?"
He shrugged, "Sure, but they just met. She may not shave her legs or armpits or something."
Siobhan grinned. "Oh hush! Let us have our fun."
Cal shook his head and went out to check the smoker. Drake was at his post.
"How's it look, Drake?" Cal asked.
"A couple of hours; then I'll just keep it warm until they're ready to serve. I've been basting it all night."
"I'm taking a 34 and going to check the canyon and make sure they cleaned up the trucks." Cal told Drake.
"Take your kit." He replied.
Cal went back to the cabin and retrieved his gear. Siobhan stopped him as he was about to leave.
"What's wrong? She said worriedly.
"I'm just going to run over and make sure the rustler's vehicles have been removed. I'll be back in about an hour."
"Oh, okay. Be careful."
It didn't take long in the 34 to get to the site. The only thing left were the telltale signs of where the vehicles had burned. They were extremely lucky things turned out the way they did. Nothing else to do there; he went back to the Compound.
Everyone started showing up for the pig picking around one. When the women started laying out the fixings, Drake and Cal put on gloves and lifted the rack out with the pig and placed it on a separate table. Cal sat back, nursing a beer as everyone attacked the food. When the crowd thinned out, he went and made a plate. He took a seat next to Siobhan, Amy and Evan. Evan loves garlic bread, so Cal was feeding him pieces of that. Cal picked up Evan's sippy cup to give him a drink but Evan pushed it away and looked at Siobhan. Cal handed her the cup and she offered Evan a drink and he took it.
Cal grinned. "He knows where to get his drink from."
Siobhan blushed. "Hush!" And looked around. A couple of the girls were grinning also.
While they were eating, Sheriff Masters pulled up and Cal got up to greet him.
"Come on and grab a plate Dan."
"I don't want to butt in, I just wanted to give you some news."
"Well, we can talk and eat at the same time."
Dan fixed a plate and came over to sit beside Cal. Siobhan got him an iced tea.
"Cal, all the rustlers are going on trial next month. Looks like the ring was bigger than we thought. We've got a couple turning for reduced sentences. Oh, and I need to deputize you and your men. The County Commissioners have okayed my plan to make you and your men auxiliary deputies."
"Dan, I don't know about the Deputy thing."
"Don't worry, it just makes you legal if we need you to help out one of our deputies as needed. We're spread kind of thin and sometimes need the help."
Cal looked around at the guys and all gave him a nod.
"Okay, Dan, we'd be glad to give you a hand as needed."
They all ate until they were groaning. Still, they had a lot of meat left.
"What are we going to do with this meat?"
"What else?" Helen said. "We're going to pick the fat out. Chop it up and wash it in a colander to remove the grease and freeze-dry it."
"Okay…looks like you have it under control. Just don't feed Ranger too many scraps. He's putting on a little weight."
Dan wiped his mouth. "Cal, we really appreciate the food bundles. There are some people that have really needed it."
"No problem, Dan. When you run low, let us know."
"Well, I need to get back to the office. I appreciate the meal and I'll contact you when we need to do the swearing in."
"Okay Dan, stay safe."
The women attacked the pig carcass and took the meat to the Processing Building to wash it and place it in the refrigerator. The men cleaned the tables and bagged the garbage. Cal worked his way around and bumped into Bill Knight.
"I think you've got you a keeper, Bill. She jumped right and started helping the other women."
"Yes, isn't she wonderful!"
Cal smiled and continued cleaning tables. Siobhan and Cal stood as witnesses at Kathy and Bill Knight's marriage by the Justice of the Peace. She didn't want a fancy wedding and Bill was relieved. They took a week off and went to Hawaii, so by the time they got back, the women had finished outfitting their cabin.
Cal got Curt alone one day.
"Curt, how are you and Cheryl getting along?"
"What…. What do you mean?"
"Well, it looks like you are getting real cozy."
Curt looked off for second.
"Cal, this is the first time I've ever met a girl that I thought I could spend the rest of my life with. She is funny, smart, we can do anything, and it makes her happy, and she loves kids. I think I'm going to ask her to marry me."
"Big step. As long as you're sure."
"I don't think I've ever been surer in my life. It's almost like reading trail sign." Cal walked back to the cabin. Going to the refrigerator, he got a glass of cold water. Siobhan walked in.
"Curt wants to ask Cheryl to marry him"
Siobhan smiled. "Well, I'm confident she's going to say 'Yes!'"
"You think?"
"That girl worships the ground he walks on."
"It seems it's a little quick though."
"Cal Coleman! If you had asked me to marry me two seconds after you shot those two jihadis, I would have said 'YES! A woman knows."
"Okay…. Guess you need to get your 'furnishing crew' together and be prepared."
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Post by gipsy on Aug 3, 2021 22:17:32 GMT -6
Good thing he has that gold mine.
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Post by papaof2 on Aug 3, 2021 23:04:43 GMT -6
Good thing he has the excavator to do the work ;-)
Although the by-the-hour rate for getting gold out with a pick and shovel is probably pretty good ;-)
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 23:36:56 GMT -6
Cal got the kids in their seats for breakfast the next morning, walked behind Siobhan and wrapped his arms around her.
She kissed him. "I love you, you know that?"
"Nope, you better tell me some more,"
"I love your strength, I love how you care about everyone on this ranch, I love how you love our children, I love your kisses…there isn't anything I don't love about you."
Their kiss lasted a long time. Evan got them back to reality by beating his tray top. Cal gave him a piece of toast to chew on and he quieted down.
There was a knock at the door. Siobhan answered and let in Mike Drake and Ariel. Siobhan poured them coffee and they took a seat. Drake was looking kind of flushed.
Ariel began. "We want to ask you two if you will be our witnesses at our marriage."
Cal put his fork down and looked at Siobhan.
"Don't start, Cal!"
"What"" Ariel cried.
"Cal was about to say something smart, to mess with Mike."
Cal tried to plead innocence, but Siobhan shut him down again.
He cleared his throat. "Ariel, why would you want to have anything to do with this big lunk?"
Ariel took Mike's hand in hers and looked into his eyes. "I love everything about this man. I've never had anyone affect me like he does. I love the ground he walks on; I love the air he breathes; I love his hugs…...everything."
Siobhan poked Cal's arm. "Sound familiar?"
He smiled. "I'm convinced! So, when is this happy occasion going to occur?"
"Friday." They both said.
"Wow!"
"Looks like I need another cabin." Cal chuckled.
"Cal, you don't have to do that!"
Siobhan spoke. "Yes, he does. That's the way he is. You two are family and he takes care of family. All you have to do is pick out the style and he'll get it done. We girls will give you help with setting it up. Kathy and Bill are moving in this week and you can move into the Manager's house until your cabin is built."
"Thank you so much Cal!" Ariel said, eyes misting.
"Mike, why don't you two take a 34 up and mark your site. I'll extend the road before construction starts.
Cal looked at Ariel. "Well, you just need to pick a cabin layout."
Ariel blushed, "I like Andy and Dawn's."
"I'll order it this morning."
They finished their coffee, leaving to mark out the cabin site.
Siobhan smiled at Cal. "You are building your own town here! We'll have to rename the ranch 'Colemanville.'"
"No, we won't!
She laughed and gave him a hug. Siobhan woke the next morning, sick to her stomach. Cal got her a glass of cold water and tended to her until she was feeling better. The kids woke up and he got them washed up and dressed. When Cal got them to the kitchen, Siobhan and Cathleen were having tea. He went ahead and fixed Amy's breakfast. Evan was fussing and reaching his arms out to Siobhan, so she took him and started nursing. She looked so beautiful, and calm, with the baby at her breast. She looked up at Cal and smiled.
Cathleen got up and kissed Siobhan on the cheek.
"I have to go or I'll miss class, Mom. I'll pick up those things for you. Love ya, see you tonight!"
Amy and Cal finished their breakfast and went to collect eggs. Jonah pulled up and they all went together.
"Cal, you interested in adding onto your land?"
"What's up?"
"Sid Johnson, over at the Circle B is hinting about selling a half section that borders us. It might open him up for a future purchase. He and his wife aren't getting any healthier and his two kids aren't interested in ranching. I figure he would sell as long as you let them to use it for grazing."
"What's your idea on why I should buy it?"
"A half-section would bring up your holdings up to 3 sections. Sid and June both are sick and will probably sell before much longer. If you gained possession in the future, you keep the developers out and some good people in work, in these rough times."
"What if I offered him $18 million for everything and they can live there as long as they like?"
Jonah's eyes got big. "I don't see why he wouldn't take it!"
"Call him up and set up a meet."
" I'll get right on it."
Jonah left Amy and I to finish up cleaning the eggs. Amy took a carton of a dozen eggs, placed them in her basket, and we returned to our home. Cal told Siobhan about the possible acquisition.
"Can you afford that much?"
"I'm sorry, I should be going over my accounts with you. Yes, it will cut into what I have, but I can afford to pay him cash for the whole outfit. Speaking of which, I need to check out Jimbo and Slade."
Cal went down the tunnel to the latest excavation, carrying a set of surveys of the plateau.
Slade and Jimbo were repositioning the machine for its final run.
"Cal, we must have hit a big pocket. I can actually see the gold in the pay dirt!
"Well, let's get this thing cutting and get the pay dirt washed."
They ended up recovering 84t oz; somewhere around $160,000."
After they ran the tank through the Gemini Table and dried the gold, Cal pulled out the survey plan sheet.
They went back to the excavator wall and started examining it.
"Hey Cal! Look at this!" Slade pointed at a spot ¾ way down the end of the room. There was an irregular spot of yellow about 4 inches across. "Looks like the gold seam," he said. They laid out the survey on the floor.
"If we excavated another room, the same size, next to this one but with a 4-foot-thick wall in between, that would take us about 6 feet from the bluff face. We can put a 6-foot doorway, centered on the vein to connect the two."
"Cal, are you just recovering gold, or do you have something else in mind?" Slade asked.
Cal paused a second. "I'm putting something together to keep us all safe in case of disaster that could come together from many directions. My main concern, other than the economy, is Yellowstone. We are in an area that could get anywhere from 3 to 12 inches of ash."
"That's why you have overpressure units, isn't it? Jimbo asked.
"Yeah, and with this extra excavating, I'm going to have to get more."
Jimbo smiled. "Well, I happen to know a guy who knows a guy where you can get units recovered from missile silo decommissonings. That would definitely take care of that problem."
"See to it and get four if you can. It's your project now."
"I'm on it.!"
"While I've got you two here, I'm thinking of buying the Circle B. If I do, I'll want one of you to relocate there to take the position of security manager. So, be ready to flip a coin when the time comes. You two are equally good."
They both nodded and Cal left to find Siobhan.
He found her in the family room. She was about to take the kids on a walk to the greenhouses and gardens.
"How are you feeling, Sweetheart?"
"I'm okay Cal, just a little morning sickness."
Cal's eyes got big.
"Are you pregnant?"
"I don't know. Cathleen is picking me up some pregnancy tests."
Cal pulled her into his arms and kissed the top of her head."
"I hope I'm pregnant Cal. I've dreamed about giving you a child for so long."
"I love you Siobhan. Life had a cruel way of finally getting us together, and now I don't ever want to lose you. I am the luckiest man alive."
He lifted her chin up and they kissed. They were interrupted with a "Ah humph."
Cal broke the kiss and looked up and Jonah was standing there.
"Sid wants you to come over and talk to him."
They jumped into the Suburban and drove over to the Circle B.
As they drove up to the house, Sid came out and greeted them. They shook hands and took a seat on the porch. A young woman brought out a tray with iced tea.
"Cal, Jonah, this is my niece, Joanna Cannon. She just graduated from Texas A&M with a degree in Ranch Management. Both Cal and Jonah shook her hand, then she left with the empty tray.
"Cal, Jonah says you would be wantin' to buy this place."
"Yes, I would like to."
"You have enough to afford all of this?"
"Yes, sir."
"Cal, don't call me sir. I'm Sid and happy with that."
"Okay, Sid."
"I have serious reservations about selling this spread. It's been in my family for five generations, and I had planned on living the rest of my days here. Hoped one of my young'uns would have wanted to move back with their family but, sad to say, that ain't the case."
"Sid, I know you have roots here. I wouldn't want you to sever them for any reason. If you sell to me, you can remain here for as long as you live."
"Well Cal, me and June would appreciate that But, this old house is just I' too big for us. We don't do stairs too good anymore, so we mostly stay on the ground floor. Just remodeled 3 years ago but haven't got to use it like it was meant to be."
Cal thought for a minute.
"Sid, what if I built you a 1-story log home for you to use for the rest of your days. I know you and June would like to visit your children and grandchildren, and you could stay with them for as long as you'd like. But you would have a home to come back to on the land that you love."
Sid stared at him.
Sid said, "Everything you said sounds too good to be true. June will likely want it written up some. But I'd just shake on it when it comes time. You have any idea of when you want to get started doin' this?"
"When would June like to be going to see your children and the grand kids?"
"I'm thinkin' that would be yesterday." They laughed.
"Once you have discussed this with June then we can have our handshake. You will need to decide on the house plan you want so we can start getting it built. If you two go visiting for a month, it would be done when you got back."
Sid sat there for a minute, rubbing his chin.
"What would you be offering for the whole bundle?"
"I'll give you $18 million cash. No mortgage. As soon as the lawyers are through and the deed is signed, we go to the bank and I transfer the money to your account."
Sid flinched.
"Let me talk to June." He excused himself and went into the house.
"Now what, Jonah?" Cal asked.
"Just sit. They will be back out before long. Sid flinching at the cash pretty much seals it, I'm thinkin'."
So, they sat and waited. It was about ten minutes later when they came out. After they had gotten seated, Sid spoke, "We like the idea of this. We want to get our lawyers together to write it out, so we are on the same sheet of music."
Cal agreed and gave Sid his lawyer's name.
"I got just one more thing. My niece was wanting to run the ranch for me, now she's out of a job.
Cal looked at Jonah and he nodded.
"Can you have Joanna come out here?"
June got up and entered the house and they both soon returned.
"Joanna, your uncle has agreed to sell me the Circle B."
Joanna's face fell.
"However, I'm going to be in the market for a Ranch Manager. Would you be willing to give it your best shot?"
"Oh yes, Mr. Coleman!"
"Okay, as of today, you are on a salary of $75,000 a year. That's $205 and change a day, 7 days a week. Is that sufficient?"
"Oh yes, Mr. Coleman, that will be fine."
"Now, I don't intend that you work 7 days a week, but sometime we all have to work those extra hours until the job is done. But it all evens out in the end. And Joanna, call me Cal. We're either team or family. I like to keep it informal."
"Yes Mr…Uh Cal."
"One more thing. I have a habit of keeping my friends and family safe. I plan on posting a Security Manager here. Will it be an inconvenience if you provided him a bedroom here?"
"Oh, heck no!" Said June. Sid nodded. "It makes me feel better now that Joanna will be running things."
Jonah and Cal stood up.
"Well, it's time we headed back to the house. We've got some planning to do.
As they headed back to the compound, Jonah started chuckling.
"What?"
"Between you and the women, you're going to have every eligible male on the ranch married off.:
"Hey, if they hit it off, they hit it off. None of my doing."
Jonah looked at Cal.
"Yeeaahh."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 23:40:15 GMT -6
Cal got back home and grabbed Siobhan, kissing the back of her neck.
"How's the new mommy?"
She twirled around, "How did you know?"
"Morning sickness, that special glow…"
Cal pulled her back into his arms and gave her a slow kiss.
Evan was pulling on Cal's pants leg and Amy ran over to get into the family hug.
Amy asked, "Mommy, are you going to give me a baby brother?"
"Do you want another baby brother, Sweetheart?"
Amy thought for a second. "I think I'd like a baby sister, but if we get another brother, I won't mind."
Siobhan grinned at me. "Well, if we don't get a sister, maybe next time."
Siobhan put the kids down to play and started dinner.
Cal went looking for Jimbo and Slade. He found them in the hangar, pulling maintenance on the 34s.
"You guys flip a coin on the Circle B position yet?
"Yeah, Jimbo won out." Slade said.
Andy walked in.
"Oh good." Cal said. "I was just going to find you. Do we need to put up a repeater to get the range on the radios to cover Circle B also?" Cal asked.
"We could cover part of the Circle B, but not all of it. Why?"
"I'm getting ready to purchase the spread."
"Then we'll need a repeater. I'll get the info. And give it to James."
"Go ahead and order another 20 radios for the Circle B also. We might as well get ahead of things."
Things moved fast. The lawyers quickly moved to get the contract complete. June, Sid, and Cal met with their lawyers and they signed the contract and walked a block down the street to transfer the money to Sid's account. They all shook hands and turned to leave the bank.'
"Well, June, when are planning on visiting the grand kids?"
Sid snickered. "Her bags are packed and in the car."
June slapped Sid on the shoulder. "That's not so!"
June turned to Cal. "We are leaving Saturday, Cal."
"The construction crews will be there Monday to begin excavation of the basement. I'm having them place all the utilities underground. There will be an intercom connection between you and the main house and a radio for the ranch network. I want you to be as much a part of the ranch-life as you desire. What time would be convenient to bring out Jimbo Carlson, the Security Manager? I'd like to get him introduced to Joanna as soon as possible."
June said, "Why don't you come for lunch tomorrow?"
"We'll look forward to it, then. We'll see you tomorrow."
Cal returned home and tracked down Jimbo.
"Pack a go-bag and be prepared to stay 2-3 days. We're having lunch over at the Circle B tomorrow and I want you to begin a security survey as soon as possible. You're going to need to work closely with this Joanna Cannon to make things happen quickly."
"Will do, Cal."
Cal went up to the house and got a glass of iced tea. James and Helen were there sitting with Siobhan.
"Congratulations! Helen gave Cal a hug and James shook his hand.
Cal shrugged. "That's life. You sign away half a fortune but gain something even more precious."
Siobhan kissed Cal on the cheek and hugged him tightly.
"I don't think you have to worry much about your fortune. You've been recovering a goodly amount of gold lately."
"Well, I don't know how much of it is going to last, but I've only excavated ¼ of the plateau. The potential is there."
"Have you thought about having another machine fabricated, to speed things up?"
"Yeah, but it was a toss-up. I didn't want to just mine for gold. I wanted to build something. The timeline really was going well, but I'm seeing the need to protect more people because of the upsurge in volcanic activity in Yellowstone and other things."
"I've ordered more environmental protective equipment as you've added to your flock."
"Thanks. I also am getting a larger over-pressure unit for the shelter complex. There are other buildings I want to protect also, but we'll need to determine what size units are needed."
"On second thought, James, pull the file on the excavating machine and let's get another fabricated, and order 6 more sets of cutters. We can run two excavators at a time. I'll need a 30Kw generator to run it, but I think it will be worth the cost."
James nodded. "I'll get right on it." James stood up
"Helen, stay as long as you like. I'm going to get some work done."
James left and Helen gave Cal a hug.
"Cal, thank you for giving James something to do. He has been so happy to be a part of the operations of the ranch. It's given him a new lease on life." "I like to see people work at their greatest potential. It makes them happy and it shows results." Jimbo and Cal drove over in two vehicles to the Circle B. They arrived in time to sit on the porch for a bit. Joanna came out to announce lunch was ready. Jimbo swallowed hard.
"Joanna, I'd like you to meet Jimbo Carlson. Jimbo, Joanna Cannon." They shook hands.
"Jimbo, huh. I don't like that name."
Jimbo's eyes got big.
"Jimmy…I like Jimmy better. Can I call you that?"
"I ah…sure!"
Cal looked at Sid. Sid grinned and raised his eyebrows.
"Well, lunch is getting cold."
They all went in and had a great meal of country fried steak. After eating, they all retired to the porch.
Cal began. "Joanna, I'm going to say something that may get stuck in your craw; I hope not. Jimb…Jimmy is in charge of security, that's both personal and physical. You run the ranch, but if something comes up that endangers you or the men and women working here, Jimmy's orders over-rule everything else. He is subject to change those orders if the situation is reasonable."
Joanna blushed slightly and nodded. "I can live with that."
"Well, I'll get out of your way. Sid, you and June need anything, you let me know."
Cal walked back out to his truck, grinning. ,"Did I see some sparks between those two?"
Andy went over the next day and gave classes to all the hands on how to operate and maintain the radios. The repeater was up and working so they made communications checks with the High Top. The aspect Joanna liked was she had constant contact with all the hands.
The Ladies even got involved. Siobhan and Martha took over a load of eggs, butter, milk and fresh vegetables to Joanna. Her cook put the produce away while Joanna and the girls talked.
When they came back, Siobhan wrapped her arms around Cal's neck and kissed him."
"How did you know?"
"Know what?"
"Joanna and Jimmy, you goof!"
"I didn't know anything. Jimbo and Slade flipped a coin for the position. I didn't suspect anything until after the fact."
"Well, it looks like they will be working together, 'closely.'" "Where did you get a case of BM59s?" Andy asked.
"Friend of a friend, Cal grinned. Why?"
"They would be good base weapon over at the Circle B."
"They already have .44 lever actions for all the hands."
"Yeah, good short-range weapons, But against AR10s…"
"Do it. Have Jimbo get a gun safe, or two, for Joanna and 5,000 rounds for each weapon."
"I'm going over tomorrow and map out waypoints with Jimbo. As soon as we get that done, I'll cross-load the waypoints to all the GPS units and get the Circle B's over to them."
"That's fine. Slade, I'll be working on the roads today. They need some work. Stay in touch."
Cal went in and got a glass of water. Siobhan was canning some jelly.
"Siobhan, I'm going to work on the roads today. I need to extend the drive to another cabin site."
"What? Who's it for? Has Clint found someone?"
"No. But I remain eternally optimistic. I'm just staying one step ahead."
Cal went back and checked the excavation. It was cutting the doorway out and was about 10 feet inside the next room. It would take the rest of the day before it would be finished.
He went back out to the cabin and called Sam Calbert to order another 3-bedroom cabin.
"Cal…good to hear from you! What can I do for you today? "
"Sam, I need another cabin…the works again."
"Cal, you are the main reason my men can put food on the table. We'll have a crew out tomorrow to survey it out and start excavation ASAP."
"I appreciate it Sam. I'll talk to you later."
Cal turned to walk toward the greenhouses when a screaming, giggling little girl came running up and grabbed his legs. Siobhan and Evan were following.
"Daddy, Mommy said we could walk with you!"
"Okay kiddo, but it will cost you."
She frowned. "What do I have to pay Daddy?"
"Kisses!" And he grabbed her up and started kissing the giggling little girl all over her face.
Cal leaned over and gave Siobhan a quick kiss.
Siobhan giggled. "We needed some fresh air and were headed the greenhouse to get some strawberries."
They continued walking, enjoying the day.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 3, 2021 23:52:49 GMT -6
Dawn and Ellen had a great bed of strawberries in the greenhouse. They were large and delicious! Dawn met them as they came in the door and she and Siobhan started gabbing about something or another. Cal just walked around with Amy, looking around. Dawn and Ellen had done a miraculous job. Running 4 greenhouses is no mean feat, but they had it down to a science. All the vegetables and herbs we of the highest quality and they rarely brought back anything from the farmers market.
Siobhan and Dawn caught up with Cal.
"Cal, do you have time to come over to the Processing Building with me? I want you to try something."
"Sure." They started walking.
"We've been trying different kinds of freeze-dried soups and I wanted you to test the Chicken Noodle." Dawn put on a kettle of water to boil. She emptied a Mylar packet of soup mix into a bowl and added boiling water. After a wait of about 4 minutes, he gave it a try. It was delicious!
"Well, I'd eat this any day, Dawn."
"I thought it was pretty good also. We planned to use any chickens that we cull out, and no one wants right then, to make into soups and dried chicken."
"Excellent idea. How long will it store? It does have some chicken fat."
"Probably no more than 6 months to a year. We're putting a 6-month expiration date on it right now, but we'll test a pack every month after that until we find an ideal date."
"Okay, run with it. Looks like you have a plan."
They picked a quart of strawberries and went back home. Cal was going over the list of projects he'd compiled when his phone rang.
"Hello,"
"Cal, it's Curt Leigh."
"Curt! How are you?"
"I'm doing good. I just got off a contract in the 'Stan and am chilling."
"How'd it go over there?"
"Nasty. Rules of engagement are killing people and threats of the World Court looking at our activities is putting everyone in a sour mood, so I got out while the getting's were good. I think I'll hang up my hat on that."
"Oh yeah? What do you have in mind for the future?"
"I don't know. Maybe get a job as a cop or something."
"Well, while you're making up your mind, why don't you come out and stay with us for a while. We have plenty of room."
"Are you still in North Carolina?"
"No, I've got a ranch in Colorado."
"Hell, I'm in Arizona. Give me the address. I'd like to come up."
Cal gave him directions and Curt said he'd see him in a couple of days.
They got the overpressure units, that were salvaged from a Minuteman silo, delivered.
It took several days to remove the smaller ones, partially disassemble the larger one and get it installed. By Cal's calculations, they had more than enough pressure to keep out volcanic ash and NBC agents out of the entire shelter complex. Any further excavations beyond the maximum capacity, they could seal off.
Curt showed up two days later. Curt looked beat.
Cal introduced Siobhan and his family to Curt.
"Cal, you look a lot better than the last time I saw you."
"Yeah, well, a lot has happened that almost did me in. But my penny landed shiny side up. Let's go get some dinner."
Siobhan fed them some delicious Shepherd's Pie and Cal and Curt retired to the porch with drinks. Cal told Curt everything that had happened since he gotten out of the Army and Curt just sat and stared, with his mouth open.
"Damn Cal!" I've known some guys that would have eaten a bullet after going through much lesser things."
"Well," Cal said, "I've got a lot of good people around that have taken care of me."
"I see you have. You got a hell of a woman there."
Cal looked at Curt. "Curt, I won't beat around the bush. We've basically set up a MAG here. I think things are going to get pretty bad. We are pretty much self-sustaining, and I want good people around when the SHTF. I can offer you a good salary while the money is still good and hots and a cot."
Curt thought a minute. "Cal, I'd be honored to be a part of your team again. I've got no other family, and this seems as good a place as any to drive in my tent pegs. I don't know what I can do but point me at it and I'll do my best."
"I know you will Curt. You're the kind of people I want around."
Cal showed Curt the bunkhouse and let him get settled.
Andy, Curt and Jimmy spent some time familiarizing the Circle B crew with the BM59s. Cal made sure they had plenty of ammo for every weapon. They hadn't seen any more trouble since the rustlers had started serving time, but who knew when the next shoe would drop.
Siobhan ran an inventory of the dry goods and personal hygiene supplies and they added even more to the storage rooms. She even went around and asked preferences and added those to the list. Cal challenged her on the personal hygiene items. She should record the everyday hygiene items she and he used each day, for a month. At the end of the month, she would total everything. Multiply that by the number of men and women we had on the High Top and Circle B ranches times 3 years. That's the total number of items he wanted in storage.
Cal called everyone on the compound and Joanna and Jimmy from the Circle B for a confab. He wanted to get everyone focused on their more serious threats,
"Can I have everyone's attention. When I inherited this ranch, it was just going to be something of a hobby. Once I peeled back the layers of what this place had to offer, each day brings a new vision. Everything seemed to fall in place. What we have here is a sanctuary for our friends and family. We have been very fortunate here to have the assets to provide the things that can help us to survive economic, natural, and man-made disasters. With your help, we can give ourselves a chance to make it through any calamity that fate throws at us. The economy is getting worse. We don't have a lot of leverage to change that. There are some things we can do to help those in need, but as our family here grows, our ability to help other diminishes. One pf the biggest calamities that could befall us is an eruption of the Yellowstone Caldera. If that should happen, millions could die, but we would remain relatively safe here, within the shelter complex. Anything outside the shelter is subject to die because of ash inhalation; cattle, horses, chickens and any other animal outside an over-pressured building."
Joanna raised her hand. "What do you mean by 'over-pressure'?"
"That means the air pressure within a structure is greater than the pressure outside. That keeps any contaminants outside from entering the protected structure. The shelter complex can be pressurized when needed. We're going to install the equipment to pressurize the big barn here. Joanna, we need to look into modifying your barn, or building a new barn. We need to do this to save as much livestock as possible during an ash fall. We won't be able to save all the livestock, but we'll save as much as possible. We will continue operations as usual, with emphasis on long-term food and supplies storage. The evacuation and survival plans will be updated and disseminated for both ranches, and emergency protection equipment issued to every member. This includes sets for saddlebags that have eye and nose covers for the horses. This will be an on-going project. We are basically winging this. If any of you have any ideas, no matter how small, that you think might help, please let us know."
Andy got up and gave a slideshow on the projected ash fall and its effects on humans and animals. It got everyone thinking.
Cal purchased a 1000-gallon tanker truck with pump. They could use it to wash ash away where needed. Also, Cal went ahead and had a 20,000-gallon water tank added that would improve the water pressure to all the compound. This was kept filled with solar and ram pumps. They ran backup power from the shelter to augment the solar pumps.
One-by-one, they installed NBC air filtration systems from American Safe Cells in all the cabins.
The 2nd excavator arrived. They doubled up to finish the current excavation. Cal's next excavation project was an area to move the chickens inside the shelter in case of ash fall, A 1200 sq. ft. area would suffice. With 2 machines, they could finish pretty quickly. Later, Cal wanted to run an 8-foot-wide hallway down the inner side of the bluff and carve out needed rooms from there.
Siobhan had grown through her morning sickness. She was much more pleasant in the mornings. Cal sat there watching her as she moved around the kitchen, enjoying every move she made. She caught him looking at her and her smiling face melted a little. Walking over to Cal she asked, "What's wrong?"
"Nothing's wrong. I've gone through so much hurt in the last couple of years, I can't believe how fulfilled I feel right now. It seems my heart is complete right now. Siobhan, you bring out the desire for life and love I've never felt before."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 4, 2021 7:09:24 GMT -6
Siobhan sat in his lap. "Cal Coleman, it seems there hasn't been a day in my life I haven't yearned for you. When you would visit us. I saw the look in your eyes when you would watch the kids, when you looked at me. There was something there, but neither of us could act on it. The day we were married, I knew my life was complete. I know in my heart, although you have given your heart to other women in past, that your heart belongs to me. I cherish you and love our children so much. I could not live without you and our family."
They slowly kissed and hugged. Cal sat there, just looking into her eyes.
"Eeeehhhhaahh" Evan started slapping his tray. Cal reached over and broke off a piece of toast. Evan snatched it up and started gumming it.
"Mommy, can I have strawberries with my cereal?" Amy asked.
Siobhan smiled. "Of course, you can, Sweetheart" and got off Cal's lap.
"Knock, knock!" Kathy walked through the door with another lady.
"Good morning!"
"Cal, Siobhan, this Cheryl Graybeal. She is an accountant with Lloyd, Davis and Hamilton." She wiggled her eyebrows a Cal. He had mentioned to her the other day he needed to get an accountant.
Cal stood up. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Hamilton. Would you like some coffee?"
"Yes, thank you. And please call me Cheryl"
Kathy and Cheryl sat down, and Siobhan brought over coffee, sugar and creamer.
"Cal, you said you needed accountant and Cheryl is wanting to apply for the position."
Cal looked at Cheryl.
"Is this with the firm you're at?"
Cheryl blushed and looked down.
"No Sir, I personally want to apply for the position."
He looked at Siobhan and Kathy.
"Okay, I feel there is more to the story. One thing we do around here is tell it straight. You want to tell me why you want the job?"
Cheryl looked up at him and cleared her throat.
"I do a good job at the firm. I think I'm one of the best there. But one of the supervisors there has been coming on to me and I feel uncomfortable working there. I'd rather not work in a large firm like that."
Cal looked at Siobhan and she nodded her head.
"Okay, Cheryl. I need an accountant, but I'd feel better with a CPA. If I give you the job, would you be willing to continue your education to obtain your CPA, with the costs on me?"
"Yes! Yes, of course!"
"Okay, the job is yours. Another stipulation is you have to live on the High Top. We have a cabin no one's using. You can start work as soon as you move in. I need to know what computers, printers and software you require also."
"Oh! Thank you. I'm living in a monthly rental, so moving here would be no problem. It might take me a little time to move my things, but I can be moved in by the end of the week."
Cal picked up the radio and called Curt and told him to come up to the house. Ten minutes later. Curt knocked and walked in.
Cal handed Curt a credit card.
"Curt, this is Cheryl Graybeal, our new accountant. I want you to follow her back into town and pay for the computer hardware and software she picks out. Also, she needs a good desk for it and a comfortable chair. Oh, and a couple of filing cabinets. See what she needs to pack her belongings and get her moved out to the new cabin this week. "
Curt looked at Cheryl.
"I think I would like that," he said quietly.
Cheryl grinned, eyes sparkling.
"Whoa, wait! Cheryl, you are now officially in charge of office supplies. Also. Get what you think is 2 years' worth. Get one of those combination printers also. You know, print, copy, makes soup."
Cheryl giggled as the two left.
Cal looked at Siobhan and grinned.
"Cal Coleman! What are you doing?"
He grinned "Just giving a little exposure, just giving a little exposure," Cal took Amy with him to what Dawn called the "Fruit House." They had purchased a 5th greenhouse that had nothing but dwarf apple, citrus and plum trees. There should be a good harvest this year because they were purchased full-sized.
"Aunty Dawn! Amy ran over to Dawn and Dawn scooped her up, hugging her.
"Whatcha doing Cupcake?"
"I'm helping Daddy!" "Well, why don't you come over here and help me eat an orange?"
"Okay!"
Cal walked around and looked at at the work Dawn and Ellen had been doing. Ellen was making up baskets of fresh fruit for each cabin.
"Do you have enough to add a basket to the Daniels' vegetable box this week?
Ellen nodded, "Sure, no problem. We'll soon have enough to take to market."
Ellen brushed her hands off. "Cal, have you thought about a root cellar? I know a lot of the root crops sell quickly at the market, but If the market didn't happen for one reason or another, we could store it to sell later or use ourselves."
Cal nodded. "Good idea. I was running low on projects."
Ellen's eyes got big. "Oh! I didn't mean…"
Cal grinned, "No I mean it. Things are going really well, and I want to keep busy. How big do you want the cellar to be?"
"Well, it probably wouldn't hurt to go big. Eventually, we would fill it most of the time."
"Okay. I'll start working on the plans."
Amy came running over, orange juice on her face.
"Daddy, here's a piece of orange Aunt Dawn gave me!"
Cal put the slice in his mouth and chewed it.
"Dawn, this is really good!
"Better living through composted cow manure." Dawn grinned.
"You ladies are doing a tremendous job here."
Ellen smiled. "It's a lot of fun, plus the satisfaction of knowing we're doing something for the Ranch."
"Well, myself and all the others really appreciate your hard work."
"Is there anything else you girls need?"
"Just the root cellar." Dawn grinned.
"I'm on it!"
Cal and Amy took their basket of fruit to the cabin.
Martha, Helen, Mary and Siobhan were in the kitchen. Cal had noticed the fleet of UV34s outside.
"This place is turning into a UV club!" Cal grinned.
"Hush! We're planning our canning activities. Dawn said she would have a bushel of plums to pick tomorrow and we're coordinating our plans."
Cal nodded. "I've got to make a run into town. Do you need any supplies?
Siobhan nodded. "We'll need sugar and Sure-Gel."
Taking a bottle of water out of the refrigerator, Cal paused. "I've got that in storage. I'll pull them out before I go but will purchase more to rotate it."
"Can you pick up 5 cases of pint jars and lids and rings for them also?"
"Sure thing."
"Oh! Jar labels! No, I'll have Aileen pick them up. She has designed a really attractive label for the Ranch. We're going to try to sell some of our jellies and jams at the market."
Cal just waved his hand and went out to his Suburban. As he started to get in, Curt pulled up, towing a trailer, with Cheryl following in her car.
"Hi Cal."
"How's it going? "
"I've got Cheryl's stuff here and we're going to offload it."
Cal looked back at Cheryl's car.
"Talk to her. She's got the only gas-powered vehicle on the ranch now. If she needs some help, let me know."
"Sure thing." They continued on to Cheryl's cabin.
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