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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 14, 2021 8:42:07 GMT -6
Cal turned the steaks one more time. "Just about ready"
Cal marked the steaks and turned the hot dogs and burgers before taking the steaks into the kitchen. Sitting the platter on the counter, he went back out with another platter to retrieve the burgers and dogs.
Siobhan put the dogs and burgers in buns placed them on the kid's plates.
"Okay kids. Come and eat!"
The kids came trotting in and took their places. Cal placed a bowl of Freedom Fries on the table and individual salad bowls. He then plated the steaks on Siobhan's and his plates. Joining hands, Amy said the blessing.
"When will they be here?
"Jacque said Saturday around mid-afternoon."
"Well, we'll definitely have a full house with Becky and Billy being here for Thanksgiving break."
"The more, the merrier."
"Did he say the purpose of his trip?"
"No, but I'm sure he will tell us when he gets here. Becky and Billy still planning to be here Friday afternoon?"
"Yes, they should be getting here in the afternoon.
"More milk please!" Evan called out.
Cal reached over and poured milk into his son's cup.
"Amy is getting better at her drawing." Siobhan said. "Amy where's your drawing of Pinky?"
"It's in my room."
"Well, make sure you show it to Daddy after dinner."
"Okay Mom."
"Dec says Emilia will graduate with a teaching degree the end of the month." Cal said. "Kathy can't wait to have her start working."
Cal's phone rang.
"Aren't you going to answer that?" Siobhan asked.
"After dinner." Cal replied."
When everyone finished eating, each took their dishes to Siobhan so she could rinse them in the sink. Cal took out his phone and went onto the patio. Cal listened to the voicemail from Special Agent Vince Wicker.
"Cal, when you get a chance, I need to talk with you."
Cal dialed his number from his contact list.
"Wicker."
"Vince, it's Cal Coleman. How can I help you?"
"Cal, do you know any reason why the Le Milieu have an interest in you?"
"You got me….what is Le Milieu?"
French organized crime. Your name came up on some intercepts."
"It may have something to do with Jacque Comtois' visit on Saturday. I'll talk to him when he gets here. If I find out anything I'll let you know."
"Well, we don't really have any interest at this time. I just wanted to give you a heads up."
"Thanks Vince. We'll stay alert."
Cal called Andy and told him what was going on. And Andy upped visual security.
"Cal, I have a Dassault Falcon requesting instructions."
"Roger Mike. That's Jacque Comtois. Bring him in."
Cal drove the Suburban to the airfield and waited for the plane to land. Arny stood by to guide the pilot to a parking space on the hardstand. The engines shut down and the airstairs were lowered. Jacque and Gabriel Comtois came down the stairs.
"Jacque! Welcome back. Welcome Gabriel."
"It is good to see you again, my friend.: Jacques said, shaking Cal's hand.
"Come, let's go to the house for refreshments." Cal said.
Siobhan and Cal got them situated in the guest house and they all walked over to the main house. Cal served Siobhan and Gabriel wine and handed Jacque two fingers of 1937 Glenfiddich Scotch.
"So, what brings you to America?"
"A business opportunity, my friend."
"Oh."
"Cal, I am selling my vineyard in France. If you think France was bad before with its socialist government, now it has been overrun with migrants who expect the government to pay them for the privilege of their presence. Crime is up and it has become too dangerous to live there. I must see to Gabriel."
"I understand. So what will you do now?" Asked Cal.
Jacque smiled. "Why establish a winery here of course. I have purchased slightly more than 90.5 hectares of land on the river near Fruita."
"Why that's great! They do make some decent wines around here."
"Well, yes. It will be a hobby for me, more or less. I will bring my two best vignerons…how do you say…"
"Winemakers."
"Yes, winemakers here to help establish the winery."
"Well, if I can be of help, please let me know." Cal said.
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Post by NCWEBNUT on Aug 14, 2021 8:46:59 GMT -6
Good to see this story continue Thanks
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 14, 2021 8:48:30 GMT -6
"B-I-L-L-L-Y!" They heard Amy scream.
Siobhan smiled and stood up. "If you will excuse me, I believe that little scream portends the arrival of our two oldest children.
Jacque stood. "But of course."
"Well Jacque, you are more than welcome the use of the guest house until you get your home built."
"I no! I do not wish to abuse the use of your guest accommodations. We will find somewhere."
"At least let me offer you the use of one of my spare log homes."
"Papa, a home would be useful in gathering the things we need to furnish our new home." Gabriel said.
Jacque smiled. "Ah! The women always make the decisions in these matters, do they not. Cal?"
"I never try to fight them, Jacque." Cal smiled.
Jacque rose as Siobhan, followed by Becky and Bill came into the room.
"Jacque, Gabriel, you remember Becky and Bill?"
"Of course! They much taller than I last remember."
"Becky is attending the Colorado School of Mines, studying Chemical Engineering and Bill is at the Air Force academy studying Aeronautical Engineering."
Gabriel rose. "It is nice to see you again Bill."
Bill took her offered hand and swallowed hard.
Becky, Billy, why don't you two show Gabriel around. She wasn't able to see much the last time she was here."
The three left and Siobhan said she needed to attend to dinner preparations.
"Jacque, let's adjourn to the patio."
Cal refreshed their drinks and led Jacque out the outdoor kitchen.
"Jacque, yesterday, I received a call from a friend in the FBI, the equivalent of your GDSE. My name was pulled from intercepts of the Le Milieu. I assume they know about our friendship."
"The Le Milieu have been trying to force me to sell to them. I, the agent immobilier and the potential buyer of the winery have maintained secrecy during this transaction. My avocat is my proxy, so I do not need to return to France."
"So, I assume that once the transaction is complete, there should be no threat?"
"I would assume so."
"If you wish, I can have our security company put together a security team until the threat is over."
"Merci beaucoup. But I insist on paying for all services."
"As you wish."
Cal looked at his watch. "We have a couple of hours to kill, would you like to fly with me in my plane and see the countryside?"
"That would be delightful."
They took and EV34 up to the hangar. Bill, Becky and Gabriel were already there.
"Bill, help me roll my plane out. I want to take Jacque sightseeing."
"Can we go to, Dad?"
"Well, let's roll them out then."
"They roiled the planes out of the parking apron and unfolded the wings. After doing their pre-flights they got into the planes; Jacque with Cal, Gabriel with Bill and Becky flew alone. Cal took off first, Bill next, then Becky as tail gunner.
Cal took them on gentle rides through canyons and roller coaster rides over ridgelines. They flew the Gunnison river with cliffs on both sides of the river and low-level across flat valleys. When they returned to the airfield, Gabriel rushed over to her Father.
"Oh Papa!. I must learn how to fly one of these planes!"
"We will see."
Gabriel quickly turned to Bill. "Will you teach me Bill?"
Bill's face turned red. "I..uh…won't be here. I'll be at the Academy."
"Gabriel, we have a couple of instructor pilots here that can train you." Cal said.
They all worked together and folded the wings up and pushed the planes into the hangar.
----Λοβε----
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Post by paulk on Aug 14, 2021 8:52:17 GMT -6
THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!!!
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 14, 2021 8:56:58 GMT -6
"Bro! You've got the hots for Gabriel!?!"
"Will you stop!"
"Come on Billy. I saw your reaction when you walked into the room. You almost melted. You turned to rubber!"
"Becky please….stop. She's two years older than I am. Even if I had any interest in her, she could care less about me. Just let it go. I don't have time for that.
Placing her fists on her hips, Becky cocked her head to the side and squinted at Bill.
"Ah-h-h-h, déanann an fear óg agóid i bhfad, sílim! (Ah-h-h-h, the young man protests to much I think!)
"Becky……"
Becky put her arms around his waist and hugged him.
"Billy, I don't care about your infatuations. Besides, you can't help it.
"What do you mean?"
Didn't Grandma Martha ever tell you about the spell?"
"What are you talking about?"
"Well, one day, before she passed, we were strolling through Serenity, me complaining about the lack of a love life. Grandma stopped at a bench and sat down. She said child, You will meet your true love on this Ranch. The land will direct your heart to your one true love."
"Oh Becky, come on. You don't believe…"
"Haven't you ever noticed it? I've watched the people on this Ranch or that have been associated with it for years. They either meet here or have strong ties with the Ranch. They all have strong marriages and are deeply in love. It IS as though the land brings them together. This place is enchanted!"
Bill sat down, deep in thought.
Yeah, but I have a couple of more years left at the Academy then I have another 5 year commitment before I can come back for good."
"Jaysus Billy! Ye'll just be 26 years past ya birth! "
Bill grinned. "You goof. So, are you seeing anyone up at Golden?"
"Nah, no one's lit my furnace yet. Erin and I pretty much keep our noses in the books. Thank God we took all those college courses. I started out as a second semester Junior. I'll be finished in a year and a half! I'll have my degree before I'm 21."
"What about Grad School?"
"I don't know…I've got two paths I can go. biochemical or biomedical. Biochemical, I can work with Ryan and the crew on renewable energy. Biomedical, there is St. Mary's."
Becky shrugged. "Maybe I'll do both"
"Let's get as much flying time as we can this weekend. I miss canyon hopping with you."
"Sure thing Bro, Well, I've got to get to bed. I'll see you in the morning."
"…'nite Beck."
Cal was putting the croissants into the oven when Bill came in.
"You're the only one up?" Bill asked.
"Yeah. My eyes popped open at 3:00 this morning and I was wide awake. I made croissant dough and have just been fiddling around. What are you up so early for?"
"Thinking."
"Well, coffee is ready. I ground it this morning."
Bill went over and poured a cup and sat at the counter. Becky walks in from the hallway with her arms extended in front of her, pretending to be sleepwalking.
"Co-o-o-f-f-f-e-e-e-e-e." She opened her eyes in surprise.
"Croissants! You made croissants!"
Bill grinned and shook his head. "How do you keep that figure and still eat so much?"
"I have you to know I'm endowed with a heavenly body and it will remain so!"
"Yeah, until some yokel with three teeth up front 'lights your furnace."
Becky slapped Bill on the arm and poured herself a cup of coffee.
"Dad, Billy and I are going flying again today. Want to come?"
"Can't. I'm going with Jacque to his property. I don't know how long we'll be there. Don't forget about Gabriel."
"Oh, I'm sure Billy won't." Becky grinned.
Cal looked thoughtfully at Bill.
Siobhan walked in. "It's 5:45 AM! What are you three doing up."
"We're ironing out Billy's love life." Becky grinned.
"Becky, don't tease." Cal admonished.
Siobhan poured a cup of coffee. "Who made croissants?"
"Da-a-a-d-d-d-y-y-y." Becky said.
Well good. Bill, when the store opens up, can you run down and pick up an assortment of pastries?"
"Sure Mom."
Cal, what about the flight crew?"
"Jacque flew himself."
"Oh. Did you notice Jacque was a little less 'up tight?'"
"Yeah, it does seem that way. Well, he's starting a new adventure so I guess he's got a new perspective."
Cal pulled the baking sheet of croissants out of the oven and placed them into a warming basket. Becky got the butter and jams out of the fridge and Siobhan sat out bread and butter plates.
"M-m-m-m-m. I miss this fresh butter." Becky said.
Bill wolfed down a buttered croissant and stood up.
"I'm going to throw on some sweats and run down for the pastries."
"My keys are on the counter over there." Cal said.
"Nah. I'll take an EV. The weather isn't bad.
When Bill left, Cal turned to Becky.
Becky, what was that crack about Bill and Gabriel?"
"Oh, I was just joking with him, but I do think he's kind of sweet on her."
"Well, don't poke at him. What will be, will be."
"But Mom….he's going to be at school, then his tour of duty…"
"Becky, I waited for your Father for almost 20 years. If there is love there, they will find their way back together."
"I know. I'm not against them having a relationship, I just don't want Billy hurt."
Siobhan looked over at Cal and smiled. Cal just shook his head and took another bit of his croissant.
"Do you have any more dough made?"
Yep, in the fridge." Cal said.
Good. Well, I'm going to take a shower. Let's let the kids sleep in as long as they like."
"K."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 14, 2021 9:03:57 GMT -6
Billy came back with the pastries and placed them in the warming oven.
"Are you oven roasting the turkey this year Dad?" Bill asked.
"Yes, your Mother is, but I'm also smoking a couple of pheasants I shot up in Hells Canyon a couple of weeks ago."
"Yum!" Becky said.
There was a knock at the door and Becky went over to answer it.
"Hey, Gabby! Good morning Mr. Comtois! Please, come in."
Bill got two more coffee cups from the cabinet. "Would you like coffee or tea?"
"Coffee! Gabby said."
"Coffee, please." Jacque said as he took a seat at the bar.
"We can move to the table if you like Jacque." Cal offered.
"No…this is more….how do you say…comfy."
"Papa is chillin'!" Gabby gasped.
Becky giggled. "Well, he can 'chill' all he wants around here. It's more 'comfy'."
Siobhan came back and started preparing the dough for baking.
"What time do you want to go to the property, Jacque?"
"Whenever you like. I just need to pick up my maps and aerial photos from my bedroom."
"Gabby, we are going flying again this morning. Want to come?"
"Oh yes! Gabby said, looking over at Bill.
Bill blushed, looked at the counter top and took another sip of his coffee.
"Bill, can you get another couple of bread and butter plates, bowls and some silverware?"
"Becky could you get the fruit out of the fridge?"
Cal pulled out the big cast iron fry pan and turned the flame on to heat it up. He took out a package of ham and a carton of eggs out of the fridge. When he started frying the ham, Gabby closed her eyes and took a big sniff.
"That smells so good!" She said.
"Dad cures his own ham. Best I've ever had." Becky commented. "But of course, I'm biased."
Cal placed the platter of ham and the large bowl of scrambled eggs on the table. Siobhan added the plate of pastries."
Barely a word was spoken as the group devoured the meal. Even Jacque, who usually ate just fruit and pastries, enjoyed the ham and eggs with croissants, heavily coated with fresh butter and jam.
"Becky, you might think about refiguring your weight and balance on your plane before you take off." Bill grinned.
"BILLY!" Becky said loudly.
Jacque attempted to hide a grin behind his napkin.
"That's enough children." Siobhan grinned.
Becky, Bill and Gabby got up and rinsed their dishes and put them in the dishwasher.
"Come on Billy. Let's go walk this food down a little before we head to the air field."
"So Gabby, how do you feel about moving to America?" Becky asked.
"Bordeaux and Libourne have become so dirty with the refugees. It is not safe to walk the streets. Foreign men will grab your breast or rub your behind…"
Bill, walking behind the two girls, blushed.
"Here, the air is so clean, the people friendly…I love it here!"
They walked down to the greenhouses and came upon the strawberry towers.
"Oh! I love strawberries, but I couldn't eat another bite!" Gabby said.
They walked back to the house to get their gear, Billy grabbing a small soft cooler and filling it with water bottles, and took an EV up to the airfield. As they prepared their planes, Gabby walked over to Bill and asked, "Billy, can I ride with you?"
"Uh…sure."
"Bill looked over Gabby's shoulder and saw Becky grinning."
"I'm lead! " Becky shouted.
"Okay, but take it easy. Gabby just had a big meal."
"Sure thing Bro, low and slow. I'm headed over to the Colorado then fly it down to around the Lower Onion Creek Campground."
"Gotcha."
Becky grabbed Gabby and took her inside the hangar to use the restroom before they took off. When they came back out, Bill helped Gabby get strapped in. Becky started her engine, followed by Bill. Becky rolled out onto the runway and immediately advanced her throttle and started rolling. Bill followed and as she was lifting off, he began to roll.
Becky stayed at 1000 feet until they reached the Colorado then did a gentle wing-over and flew about 200 feet above the river. The views were amazing with the blue water reflecting the high cliffs on both sides of the river. The twists and turns were exhilarating and Gabby was grinning the whole way.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 14, 2021 9:09:20 GMT -6
Coming up on the campground, Becky called Bill.
“Hey Bro, I’m going to take her down.”
“Roger.”
Becky did a fly-over and there was no one at the campground so she checked the wind…it was coming almost straight down the road, came back around, set her flaps and landed. Bill came back around, landed and followed her roll into the parking area.
Becky jumped out of her plane and immediately headed for the latrine building. Gabby went in after her.
Becky came back out. “Whew! That was close!”
Gabby came out and went over to the two. Becky, what do you do if you don’t have a place to land?”
“Oh, If got this thingy…a female urinal bottle I use. You can take it with you on the flight back if you want.”
Gabby quickly shifted her eyes to Bill and away. “No, no thank you.”
Becky broke out in a big grin.
Bill shook his head and walked to an overlook and looked down on the river.
“It is so lonely, but beautiful here.” Gabby said.
“On the way back, I’ll fly slow by the arches. They are really beautiful.” Becky said.
The walked around a little while longer. Billy walked over to his plane and retrieved the soft cooler and carried it over to the picnic table Gabby and Becky were sitting at. He handed a bottle of water to each girl.
“Thank you Billy.” Gabby said.
Becky managed to stifle her grin.
They sat there for a while, Becky telling Gabby about her classes and school life. Billy just sat there listening and watching the expressions on Gabby’s face.”
“You about ready to go Bro?” Becky asked.
“Yeah, let me go use the facilities first.” Bill replied.
When Bill came back out, he and Becky did their preflight checks and prepared to take off. Again she took lead, taking them to the unusual rock formations to the east of Onion Creek narrows.
Gabby keyed the intercom. “Billy, why do you seem so distant to me?’”
“I’m…uh…Gabby, I am fond of you. I just can’t get any closer. I’ve got two years left at the Academy then five years commitment before I can leave the service. I wouldn’t want a girl to have to wait that long.”
Gabby was silent for a while. Billy, I would wait for you.”
Billy looked over at Gabby. She was staring straight ahead.
“Gabby, I can’t ask you to do that.”
“I don’t care, I’m telling you I will wait for you.”
Becky flew on over to Piñon Mesa and then meandered over the ravines and canyons until they came within sight of the airfield. Bill reduced speed and let Becky set up. He set his flaps and speed and softly touched down and rolled onto the hardstand. Getting out, Bill retrieved the cooler and sat it aside while he and Becky refueled, then folded the wings. They pushed the planes into the hangar and slid the doors closed.
"How was your flight?"
"It was beautiful Mom! There I was, flying down the Colorado River, wheels skimming the water.."
Siobhan shivered and put up her hand and closed her eyes. "I don't want to hear it! You better not have been doing that!"
Bill chuckled. "Mom, she's pulling your leg. She was never lower than 100 feet above the water."
"I swear, you kids are going to be the death of me! Gabby, did you have a good time?"
"Yes ma'am. It was wonderful!"
"Becky, would you go down to the greenhouse and get a couple of stalks of celery from Ellen? That's all I'm short of. I want to make the dressing this afternoon.
"Sure Mom. Come go with me Gabby."
"Bill, what are you so quiet about?"
"Nothing Mom. If I don't have anything to say, then I don't say anything.
Siobhan paused. "It's about Gabby, isn't it?"
"Mom..."
"Becky told me you had a little crush on her. She's worried that you'd get hurt. She's concerned that you have your goals you have set and it would be a long time for a girl to wait. Like I told her, I waited for your Father for 20 years and look how it turned out. Seven or eight years is a drop in the bucket. Time really flies and before you know it, it's upon you."
"Okay Mom. Thanks.
"So, what type of house are you going to have built Jacque?"
"Something not typical for a Frenchman, I believe. I want to build an earth sheltered home. I will dig into that hill over there, 200 feet above the river, an energy efficient home.”
“Well, I’ve got a couple of experts that can help you with that.”
"Cal, where do you think I could put a runway sufficient for one of the SuperSTOL aircraft?"
Taking the aerial photo Cal studied it for a second. Well, If you are going to build your house here, I'd put a runway from here to here. That gives you over a thousand feet. That's more than enough,..,even with a safety factor. There are no trees at either end so clearance has no bearing. Also, you could extend your taxiway up to the ridge where you’re building your house and you can earth-berm the hangar.
Perfect. I just need the right architecte to design it. Ah! I should be buying vehicles for Gabriel and I soon.
"I can take you in Monday, if you like. We have several dealers in town. You definitely don’t want to go in on Black Friday!
"Yes, that would do nicely."
"Well, if there is nothing else, we'll head back to the house for lunch.
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Post by gipsy on Aug 14, 2021 10:10:39 GMT -6
On to more adventure for sure.
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Post by bluefox2 on Aug 14, 2021 10:56:16 GMT -6
Nice continuation here. Now I am going to maybe start something. some folks over on another forum (they know who they are and no I am not a member) have been critical of your storyline. For those folks I say that I notice some of the same type of plotlines in other authors stories . some of whom are very well known and no one seems to criticize them. To the author here I say KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!! To those others I say IF you can do beter and different, PLEASE do so.
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Post by NCWEBNUT on Aug 14, 2021 11:09:30 GMT -6
Nice continuation here. Now I am going to maybe start something. some folks over on another forum (they know who they are and no I am not a member) have been critical of your storyline. For those folks I say that I notice some of the same type of plotlines in other authors stories . some of whom are very well known and no one seems to criticize them. To the author here I say KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!! To those others I say IF you can do beter and different, PLEASE do so. Yeah I seen that too and thought wheres your stories??
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Post by paulk on Aug 14, 2021 12:14:20 GMT -6
To me, the whole point of writing is to tell a story, to entertain, entice, or teach. Your writing seems to meet all these. Your characters are strong and likable. Obviously, I am entertained and enticed and have learned much. Well done.
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Post by cavsgt on Aug 14, 2021 14:58:55 GMT -6
Well those others can just not bother to read the stories. There are a BUNCH of us who think that the stories are very good and well written.
PHILL
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mlhj
New Member
Posts: 16
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Post by mlhj on Aug 14, 2021 15:56:27 GMT -6
Well those others can just not bother to read the stories. There are a BUNCH of us who think that the stories are very good and well written. PHILL Agreed 100%. I appreciate the work and the author has my gratitude. It’s not like he’s getting paid for this.
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Post by spacecadet12364 on Aug 14, 2021 18:16:33 GMT -6
wish I could find a community such as you are writing about. awesome story
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Post by gipsy on Aug 14, 2021 21:35:31 GMT -6
Well this is the pits. Time to hit the hay. Hope there will be more tomorrow to peruse.
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Post by paulk on Aug 15, 2021 5:20:10 GMT -6
What happened? Where are you? Please continue your story.
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Post by kiwibutterfly on Aug 15, 2021 6:46:43 GMT -6
I need my bedtime read!!!!
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Post by biggkidd on Aug 15, 2021 11:22:02 GMT -6
He said he would continue and I'm sure he will. Probably had other things in life to take care of.
Many thanks for what's been written so far! Great story!
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 15, 2021 13:31:06 GMT -6
Thanksgiving morning, Cal put rub on the pheasants and placed them in the smoker. He went back in and helped Siobhan prepare the 20 pound turkey.
"I hope this turns out all right. It's how Martha always did it."
"Then I'm sure it will be just fine."
Siobhan had the oven in the Shelter pre-heating and was ready when Cal placed the large roasting pan in and closed the door. Siobhan set her timer and stuck it to the refrigerator the her home kitchen.
"What else?" Cal asked.
"Apple and pecan pies."
"Okay, you do the apple, I'll do the pecan."
Siobhan had made the crusts the night before and put the dried apples to soak the night before so there was little to do except mix the ingredients and pour them in. Siobhan put her pies in the top oven and Cal stuck his in the bottom oven. Siobhan breathed a sigh of relief.
"It might be a little early, but I feel like an eggnog…with lots of nog!"
Cal chuckled. "Go sit down. I'll bring it to you."
Becky, Gabby and the kids came in and started putting up Thanksgiving decorations the kids had made. There was a lot of giggling and ooos and aaahs as they made things a little more festive.
At 2:30 the Coleman, Lambry, Comtois, Hatley, and Shaner families gave their thanks to God's blessings.
On Monday afternoon Cal, Jacque and Gabby arrived from Grand Junction with Jacque driving a new Ford Expedition and Gabby driving a Tahoe, surprisingly similar to Bill's. They were laughing and talking when they went into the Great Room. Siobhan came in with Mary.
"Cal, Mal Forester was kicked in the head by a horse this afternoon. Mary and I are going to St. Mary's to check on her.
"Okay call me if you need anything."
Billy and Becky were in the kitchen when Gabby came in.
"I have a new car!" Gabby squealed.
'What did you get? A Mercedes? A Jag…what?
Gabby ran over to a window in in the breakfast nook and pointed. THIS!"
Becky rushed over the window and quickly covered her mouth to smother her squeal of laughter.
Bill sauntered over and looked over the girls shoulders.
Bill took in a deep breath. "That looks just like my Tahoe!
"But of course! You are taking your car back to the Academy after the holiday and I would have nothing to drive!
Becky was laughing so hard she folded her forearms across her stomach.
"Bro, looks like you are stuck with her.!
Siobhan and Mary found a worried Francine in the waiting area of the Emergency Room.
"Francine, have you heard anything? Siobhan asked.
"No Siobhan. They have been in the operating room for over an hour. Siobhan, I don't think he's coming back from this."
"Now, now. Don't give up hope. Let's sit here and pray."
Thirty minutes later, the hospital chaplain walked up and laid his hand on Francine's shoulder. Siobhan looked up and he gave her a slight head shake. The doctor came through the doors to the waiting group.
"Mrs. Forester, I'm sorry. We did all we could possibly do, but there was too much damage."
Francine shuddered and covered her face with her hands. Mary went over to the floor nurse and asked about how to make arrangements for the body. She went back over to where Francine was sipping on a cup of water.
"Francine honey, who do you want to handle the arrangements?"
Francine looked up. "Grand Valley. We have a policy with them. All specifics are laid out in the policy."
Mary got the number from the nurse and called Grand Valley Funeral Services to pick up the body at St. Mary's
Siobhan had Francine stand up. "Let's go, Francine. You're staying with us tonight."
While Siobhan was leading Francine out to the vehicle, Mary was on the phone, letting Cal and Jim know what was going on.
When they arrived at Mary's home. They got Francine to sit in the den and got her a cup if tea.
"Francine, is there anything we can do for you right now?" Mary asked.
Francine looked up. "Would you call me 'Fancy'?" Mal always called me Fancy."
"We sure will Fancy. Do you want to lay down for a while?"
"Yes, I think I will."
Siobhan left and went to the house. When she walked into the house, Cal, Jacque, Bill, Gabby and Becky were in the Great room. Cal looked at here questionably as she entered the room. She shook her head.
"He didn't make it. Francine…Fancy is staying with Mary and Jim."
"What are the plans"
"I'm not sure. Grand Valley is handling things. Mary with let us know the schedule."
Gabby and Becky kept the children occupied while Cal and Siobhan got dinner ready.
Jacque was on the phone with Will Harris about the construction project. He would meet with Jacque the next day to discuss details.
Jacque asked Cal for a sketch pad. He sat down at the breakfast bar and started sketching his ideas.
The next morning Siobhan and Mary took Fancy to the funeral home to finish the coordination. Mal was to be cremated. A Celebration of Life would be held.
"Siobhan, do you think it would be all right to hold Mal's Celebration of Life at the Community Center with Reverend Lambry officiating?"
"Absolutely! I'll contact the Reverend and set things up."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 15, 2021 13:32:18 GMT -6
The morning of Mal's Celebration of Life, Becky and Bill were packed and ready to head back to school.
"You guys be safe and call when you get back.
"We will Mom." Becky said, turning to look at Bill and Gabby talking softly over by his Tahoe.
"You are going to have a daughter-in-law before you know it!" Becky grinned.
Siobhan sighed.
"Billy you be careful. I will be waiting for you."
"Gabby I…."
"Sssssh." Gabby said, placing a fingerover his lips. She stood on her tip-toes and kissed his cheek.
"Drive safely."
Cal came out. "You guys got money?"
"Yes Daddy. We've got our radios on vox and speaker so we can talk along the way." Becky said.
"Keep those radios secure. They are encrypted."
"Yes Da-a-a-a-dy." Becky grinned.
The two got in their vehicles and the three watched as Becky and Bill drove out of sight.
Gabby turned, "Siobhan, may I speak with you?"
"I've got to go to the barn." Cal said, making a hasty retreat.
"Come on in. Let's get a cup of coffee."
Gabby sat at the breakfast counter while Siobhan poured their coffee.
"Siobhan I'm…."
"in love with Bill." Siobhan finished.
"Yes."
"Gabby, he's made commitments and set goals. He has feelings for you also, but he wants to meet those goals to secure his future, perhaps a future with you."
"I understand that and I will support him. I fell in love with him the very minute I saw him. My heart and mind are filled with him each and every day."
"I can understand that. I was the same with his father. Now what are you going to do?"
Gabby shrugged. "Help my father establish his winery, cherish every call I get from Billy and every moment we have together, support him, and wait until the time he comes back to me for good."
"That's a lot, but if you need to talk or just get away from the man world for a time, feel free to come over."
Gabby got up off the stool and gave Siobhan a hug."
The Community Center was almost over-flowing. Many people got up and gave their eulogies of Mal Foresters life. Solemn expressions and moist eyes filled the building. As the celebration ended, the Ranch women sat out plates of finger foods and served drinks.
Mary, Fancy, Helen and Siobhan stood on one side of the large room talking.
Fancy sighed. "Now I have to figure what to do with the ranch. I can't run it by myself and it sure won't be the same without Mal."
"Well, find you something you really like to do and get to it. You need to get busy." Mary said.
"I love to cook, but cooking for one ain't fun, believe me!" Fancy said.
Siobhan looked around the room and spotted Cal talking to Andy. She got his attention and signaled for the two to come over. She stepped away from the women and said softly to Cal, "Teastaíonn post ó Fancy mar chócaire ag an Áis." (Fancy needs a job as a cook at the Facility.")
Cal stepped over to the women. "Fancy, Siobhan tells me you like to cook. We happen to need a cook at our training facility. We'll give you a house to stay in so you don't have to drive so far every day. Plus, you'll be surrounded by all these lovely ladies who can fill your days with all the local gossip they can dig up."
"Call Coleman, you need a switch!" Helen said, trying to keep from smiling.
"Well, it would be kind of lonely out at the ranch. Let me think about it Cal.
With the Celebration over, several people stayed behind to help clean up. Helen took Fancy back to the Hately home. The next day they would return her to her ranch.
The next week Helen came to Cal and told him Fancy would accept the job. Dale and James would help her with the legal and estate sale. The two adjoining ranchers had agreed to buy the ranch. All they needed were some strong backs to move what Fancy wanted to keep to her new home.
Cal asked Dennis, Shay, Terry and Ben to help move Fancy's things and to use whatever equipment needed.
Jacque finally had his building plans approved. It would have four bedrooms, four baths with jacuzzi tubs and separate showers, a large pantry, gourmet kitchen, a Great Room, office, sun room, and a greenhouse extension. Large skylight tubes would bring diffused daylight through the eight feet of earth to brighten the interior. The four bay garage and hangar rounded out the complex. The southern face of the house would be done in rammed earth.
Will Harris would do the main part of the complex, but he had another company that was skilled in rammed earth construction sub-contracted to do that portion.
Jacque was having two more houses for the families of the vignerons moving there from France.
Gabby and Jacque were watching the trucks pouring the dozens of yards of concrete used to form the walls of the house.
"Papa, will you get some of the EV34s like they have at the HTR?"
"Yes, those are definitely on the list. As for the rest of the machinery, I will defer to Carl and Peter when they get here. How are your flying lessons going?"
I'll be ready to take the FAA test in a couple of weeks. I can't wait to take Billy flying in his plane. He has nine days for Spring Break. "Yes, I'm sure." Jacque said, suppressing a grin.
With Cal's help, Jacque had already purchased her SuperSTOL. In a few days, Cal was going to Idaho to fly it back. One day at the Mall, Jacque observed a young lady drawing caricatures, very well, in fact. He later brought a picture of Gabriel with him and had the girl draw a caricature of Gabriel with a little red beret and a white silk scarf flowing in the wind behind her. He was having the caricature mirrored on each side of her little plane just to the front edge of the doors on the pink-champagne colored plane.
As they left the future vineyard, Gabriel left in her vehicle to go to the landscape firm to go over their plans. Jacque returned to the Ranch. He located Cal in the Processing House and asked to speak with him. They walked outside and down near the composter.
"Cal, Gabriel will be taking her final written test and her solo flight soon. I would like to delay her solo until Bill is here. I think it would mean much to her for him to be here."
Cal grinned. "Yes, I'm sure it would."
The Cal told Jacque how they had surprised Becky with her new plane. Jacque grinned.
"Do you think we could do something similar with Gabriel?"
"Sure. I could ask Hugh Thompson to hide her plane in his hangar. As soon as Gabby takes off, Bill can get high in her blind spot and shadow her on landing."
"Parfait!"
“I will let Ken know not to solo her before we’re ready.”
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 15, 2021 13:34:24 GMT -6
"What are you two doing up here?"
"Chloé and Élise are 'riding herd,' as they say in langue vernaculaire locale, on the landscaping contractors. It is best they have their way without their husbands being targets also. We are going to look at farm equipment."
"That is fine. The contractors say they will be finished with the equipment barn Thursday. We will then start our purchases,"
Jacque watched as the 18 inches of concrete for the roof flowed from the trucks through large hoses. At this rate, they would be planting vines before the house was finished.
With the equipment barn finished, Jacque, Carl and Paul went on a shopping spree. Cal had sent Shay and Dennis over with the bulldozer to flatten the fields where needed. Paul used their tractor and harrow to further smooth things out.
"Cal, where did you purchase Tractopelle?"
"That is military surplus. In English, it's called a 'backhoe'"
"Yes, I saw several while we were looking at equipment, but none like this."
"Well, I really don't needed it. It was such a good deal, I couldn't resist purchasing it. I will sell it to you for what it cost me."
"No, I'm sure there were cost in moving it here. I will give you 5% more."
"I accept. I will have the men bring it and the attachments over tomorrow."
"Very good."
Paul immediately started using the backhoe with the auger attachment to bore post holes. Four workers, recommended by Sylvio, were hired to set the posts and run the Stretch-N-Go Hog to install the support wires on the posts. The first field of 25 acres was almost complete when Jacque's house was finished. Siobhan introduced Jacque and Gabby to Sherry Augustine who began helping them in the interior design.
Becky and Bill arrived home for their 3-week spring break and Gabby was ecstatic.
"Billy! Ken said I could solo tomorrow. Will you be there?"
"I'll try to, but I have a dentist appointment in the morning."
Gabby's bottom lip poked out a little. "Well, will you let me fly you in your plane in the afternoon?"
"Of course."
Gabby ate lunch with them but had to leave to meet with Sherry to pick out some accent pieces.
The next morning, The entire Coleman family, not including Bill, were at the airfield to watch Becky's solo. Andy had taken Bill over to Hugh's to pick up the plane. Jacque stood next to Cal.
"Is everything ready?" Jacque asked.
"Cal keyed his radio. "Bill, you ready?
"Roger. I'm holding over Ela Bridge.
"Roger. She'll be taking off to the north."
"Roger, I'll start getting into position."
They watched as Ken gave Gabby her instructions. She then did her walk-around and got into the plane. Starting her engine, she tested her flaps and ailerons, rudder and elevators. Ken gave her a thumbs up and Gabby started rolling to the runway. When she advanced the throttle and started down the runway, Cal keyed the mike and said, "She's rolling Bill."
"Roger."
When Gabby had completed her requirements, she called the tower and requested landing instructions. They saw her lining up and saw Bill slip in behind her, about 300 yards. She softly landed and taxied up to the hangar. Bill practically stopped on a dime and quickly taxied in behind and to the left of her. Gabby quickly got out of the plane and lifted her arms in the air, both hands showing the victory signal. She glanced to her left and slowly brought her arms down, staring at Bill getting out of the plane. Immediately she screamed and ran over and jumped into Bill's arms. She then ran over to Jacque and gave him a big hug.
"Oh! Thank you Papa."
Becky reached over and pulled a red beret down on Gabby's head and wrapped a long white silk scarf around her neck.
"Congratulations Gabby!"
Gabby turned to Bill. "I thought you had a dental appointment."
"Hey, I had to see my gir…" He then shut up.
Gabby grabbed Bill around the neck and gave him a steaming kiss.
"Gabriel! I am shocked!" Jacque said, smiling."
Gabby released a blushing Bill.
They walked over to Gabby's new plane.
"IS THAT ME? It IS me!" Gabby said, now noticing the nose art.
"Come Billy, we are going flying!"
Billy pulled back. "Wait, I have something else."
Billy trotted over to the hangar and came back with a brilliant orange backpack.
"This is your survival kit. Don't ever fly without it. I'll explain the contents later."
"Yes Billy."
The rest watched as the Gabby did her walk-around and she and Bill got into the plane. Starting the engine, Gabby skillfully maneuvered the plane to the runway, advanced the throttle and took off.
Jacque stared as the plane flew out of sight.
Jacque shook his head. "They grow up so fast…"
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 15, 2021 13:38:10 GMT -6
Nick, Terry and Cal were slowly pushing the cattle toward the feed lot.
"Cull that one out Terry!" Cal shouted.
Terry roped the steer and dragged it away from the rest of the cattle.
"Take him to the holding pen!" Cal directed.
For some reason, that steer stood out from the others. Not that there was anything wrong with it, but buyers might focus on it and not the group as a whole. Jacque had asked about a beef to slaughter, anyway.
Jacque had talked Cal into letting him hire away Fancy as his cook/housekeeper. She was reluctant at first, but after touring the house, there would be almost no dust because of the positive pressure system Jacque had integrated into the house. The kitchen was like nothing she had ever worked in. She was in her glory cooking with Gabby, learning some of the French dishes Jacque liked.
Bill's schedule was giving him a three week leave after his summer training so it would be good to have the whole family together again. Cattle prices were good, crops were doing well, and everyone was healthy. Cal wasn't a pessimist, but he doubted things could go this well without something gumming up the works.
"Cal, we need to talk."
"Siobhan, You know, those of the most frightening words a man can hear."
"Oh, hush. I need some help with Amy. "
"What do you mean?"
"Cal, she is constantly drawing. As I know you've seen, she is quite good. Look at this picture she drew of me this morning."
"Cal took the drawing and looked at it. It showed Siobhan viewing her phone messages, sitting in her chair in the Great Room. It was very realistic."
"That is very good. I'm not an art critic, but I would think a nine year old could do something like this. So what do you need?"
"She wants to go up on top of the mesa and do landscapes. I've got Evan, Grady, and Brigid that constantly need attention so I can't watch them and be with her too. You've got your hands full too"
"Suggestions?"
"There is a lady who has a fourteen year old daughter at the Hope Center. We could hire her. The lady could act as a house keeper and the daughter could watch the boys. They could live in the smaller cabin that Fancy had. I had Andy run a check and they're clean.
"Okay, we can give it a try. Is Amy really in to art?"
Yes she is. If you can watch the boys after school, I want to take her into town and get some art supplies. Some of the things she'll need I'll have to order online."
"Sure, I can be here."
Cal went down to Level 3 to check on Jacque's LTS foods. He paid Cal for three one-year packages. Charlie was palletizing them and ordering replacements.
"These ready to go?" Cal asked.
"Yep. Gary is about to move them up top and load them in the truck. Gabby said she'd be at the house."
"This place is looking empty."
"Yeah, we've been moving most of the long term parts and stuff like that down to Level 4, increasing our storage here for items that will be used quicker."
"Great. Did the maple syrup come in?"
"Sure did. Five buckets of it. I've ordered more honey also."
Cal chuckled. "We do use a lot of honey."
"I've got a suggestion." Charlie said.
"What?"
"We've got these older Coleman stoves that don't have a piezo igniter. I tested lighting one with a Lightning Strike fire starter and it works. I know, they are expensive, but it sure beats wet matches or a butane lighter that has died."
"Good idea. Order them and pack them with the stove."
"Gotcha Boss."
Cal went back upstairs and was sitting at the breakfast bar drinking a glass of iced tea when Siobhan and the kids came in.
"I'll take Brigid with us."
"Okay. Be safe."
The boys got up on stools and Cal gave each a cookie and a glass of milk.
"Daddy, can we use the silenced pistols to shoot down at the range?"
"I guess so. Is Bill going with you?"
"Yes sir. He's changing clothes."
"Well, I'll have Del issue you two. Either you or Bill have to act as Safety officer while the others shoot."
Bill walked in while Cal was on the intercom talking to Del telling him to issue them two Ruger 22/45s and a brick of ammo.
"Bill, I told Becky either you or her has to be the Safety officer while the others shoot.
"No problem. Beck, I'll go and get the guns. I'll meet you out front."
"Okay, come on Gabby."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 15, 2021 13:40:58 GMT -6
"Cal, I've got a problem. We had a mail truck hijacked and headed toward Delta. There's no highway patrol down that way and he's already made one of my Deputies crash."
Well, we can track them with the helicopter but I'm not setting down in front of it. Damn fool would probably try to drive through us."
"Well, can you at least disable the engine or something?"
Cal grinned. "Yeah, we can do that. We're good at disabling engines."
I've got people on the way but the truck is liable to disappear before they can get there."
"Okay Earl, I'll call you later."
Cal called Andy and Ken and they all grabbed their kits and rushed to the airfield. Andy had his .50 with Raufoss rounds, Mitch Carr had an M-4 and was mounting the M-134. Ken quickly got the S-70 warmed up and into the air. Within 15 minutes they saw what they thought was the truck. Cal called Earl.
"Earl, is there anything to identify the truck?"
"There is '369' painted on the roof of the cab."
"Roger, we've spotted him, getting into position."
"Andy, put a round in the engine. Mitch, lay off the 134. Let's try to preserve the junk mail from the Congressmen."
The Raufoss round blew the hood completely off the cab and the truck rolled to a stop. Ken turned sideways across the highway and Mitch had the Gatling gun pointed at the driver.
"Driver, stay in the truck and keep your hands where they are visible on the dash" Cal said over the PA.
Ken slowly set the bird down but kept the blades turning. Ten minutes later a Deputy's car arrived and took the driver into custody. Ken lifted the S-70 up to a high enough altitude that Cal could call Earl.
"Earl, your Deputy Branson has the perp in custody. Better send a tow truck."
"Thanks Cal. You didn't kill anyone did you?"
"Nah. Having your engine blow up in front of you kind of makes you want to take orders, I guess."
"All right. I'll talk to you later."
"Home James." Cal said over the intercom.
Sunday, after church, Cal carried the chafing pan into the Community Center. Siobhan and Becky, with Gabby and Bill were handling the rest. He made a beeline for the patio door and saw the men huddled over to one side. Andy was talking and gesturing to the group.
"…and the Sheriff asked Cal if he killed anyone and Cal said, 'Nah. Having your engine blow up in front of you kind of makes you want to take orders, I guess. "
The ranchers started laughing.
"Here he is, our own Wyatt Earp of Mesa County."
"Jeb, how many head are you going to have at the sale next week?"
"I got 80 head, Cal."
"Prices are looking good right now."
"Cal, you in the market for a manure spreader? I'll make you a good deal."
"I'll come over and take a look one day this week, Harry."
The women had taken to ringing a small dinner bell hung on the wall next to the patio door to call people to eat…and they rang it. The men filed into the Community Center and the Reverend gave the blessing.
Gabby and Becky filled their plates and sat down with the Coleman clan. Gabby grabbed a seat next to Bill.
"Hey Gabby, want to go camping with Bill and I?" Asked Becky.
"Where are you going?" Cal asked.
"Black Rock Canyon."
"You flying in?" Asked Cal.
"Of course. There are no roads in there."
"Sure, I'll go with you. When are you going?" Asked Gabby.
"We'll fly in Saturday, stay overnight and come back Sunday."
"Okay."
"You'd better ride with Billy. It's not the easiest of places to land." Becky grinned
"Okay!" Gabby smiled.
Cal just shook his head.
"How's the planting going Jacque?"
"We have finished the first 10 hectares and beginning the next. Also, we are excavating an earth-berm storage facility capable of storing 250 two hundred and twenty-seven liter barrels and a bottling area."
"I look forward to tasting your wines."
"Patience my friend. The wine we will be making must be cellared for 3-5 years, so you have some time to wait.
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Post by paulk on Aug 15, 2021 13:53:44 GMT -6
Excellent!! You are really outstanding.
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Post by cavsgt on Aug 15, 2021 15:06:32 GMT -6
Super as usual,Love this story.
Thank You phill
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