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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 4:50:40 GMT -6
"Cal? It's Casey. Gary is here with the plans for us to go over." Cal smiled. "Great!. I'm on my way." When Cal got to the General Store, Casey had shoved to tables together where Gary had the plans laid out." "Cal, this this the construction plan of the new addition. As you can see, we've basically followed the same techniques we had in the original store build. The finished basement will provide storage without expanding the building size. Here, in the kitchen area, will be a dumbwaiter that will allow the staff to move supplies in the basement to the pantry area in the kitchen. Here, you'll have covered open air eating for ten tables. Also, we've left room for expansion along this wall in case you decide to increase dining space in the future." Cal like the plan. It left more room for customers on the main level. Gary continued. "I've done some computer graphics so you can visualize what everything will look like." Cal and Casey looked at the computer as Gary manipulated the 3D graphics, showing them the dining area, reception area, kitchen pantry and office.
"Gary, you've done an excellent job. Casey?" "It's wonderful! It's everything we need. It gives me goosebumps!" "Well Gary, tell Sam to get started. Be prepared to build more cabins across the road. If we need to house staff, we'll do it. From here on, your Point of Contact for the project will be Casey. Casey. make sure you get everything you need to furnish the place the way it should be. Don't scrimp and don't take any appliances out of the Coffee Corner. Nothing but new for the restaurant." Gary left them color prints of the 3d graphics. Casey wanted to display them for the Coffee Corner customers to see and get the word out about was coming in the future. "Well congratulations! I see Gordon got you the ring." Casey blushed. "We'll have a small wedding in a month. I'm going to be busy for a while. We'll do a little travel this summer." "Have you started thinking about staff?" "Staff and menus. I'm on this." "Well, it's your show. I know you'll makes us proud." "Thanks Cal. And thank you for making this dream real." NEWS BREAKCarlotta Hanson (D-Georgia) and 11 members of delegations from ANTIFA and BLM were killed in an explosion this morning in a conference room at the Hyatt Regency hotel in Chevy Chase, Maryland. More to follow. The 6800 square foot log home had been in his plan since he married Siobhan. As the family size changed, Cal's plan changed. The plan, when Cal finally showed it to Siobhan, had a foyer, mudroom, great room, kitchen, office, dining room, laundry room, pantry. 7 bedrooms, 7 ½ bathrooms, and a 3-car attached garage. The basic shell had been completely done at the log home company in Wisconsin over a year ago. Siobhan completed the interior design plans and the construction began. "Where's the entrance to the shelter?" Siobhan asked. "It's in the basement." Cal replied. "I'll show it to you later. The code will be the same." They had the majority of their things moved from the smaller cabin and needed to complete the move in order for the renovation to office space to begin on Monday. The women were unboxing the kitchen things and getting everything in its place. Cal sneaked away. The heavy lifting was done. It was to the point to where the women were "putting their touches" on everything. He jumped into an HV34 and went to hide out down at Andy's. "What's up Cal?" "I escaped from the woman swarm up at the new house. They're putting in the 'final' touches." "Rather thee than me." "How's Perry doing?" "He's doing great!. He really pays attention to detail. He's down at the Coffee Corner drinking coffee and schmoozing up to Grace Hudson. Oh, and the Sheriff got him squared away with the CCW." Cal chuckled. "Well, at least he's getting to know the people around here. Oh, I'm having Aerial Photography of Colorado do shots of the three ranches and having a 4x8 mosaic done." "Good idea. We could use one in the monitoring room." "That's what I was thinking, plus, I made space for one in my new office." "How the restaurant going?" "They've got the roof on and were doing the electrical. Barry and Brian upgraded the battery bank and were finishing up the HVAC. Windows are supposed to be finished by now. I think I'll go down and check things out." "Okay, Cal. I'll see you later." In Queenstown, Maryland, two men from DHS are sitting in a car watching a house while they wait for the man who lives there to return from work so they can confiscate his guns. He has been branded a "Domestic Terrorist" because of his conservative views. They will call in a team to complete the confiscation when he gets inside. A well-built woman in her late twenties, wearing a tight dress with a short skirt, is walking up the street checking the houses on that side of the street. When she draws level with the car she stops, looks at the paper in her left hand, and walks over to the car. The man on that side lowers the window when she nears the car.
Bending over to lean on the door, she gives the man a good view of the valley between her breasts when she says, "Excuse me, but do you... , " she stops speaking when a soft 'pfft' comes from the large bag at her side and the man in the passenger seat falls to his left. The driver reacts to the sound and he's reaching for his gun in its shoulder holster when the woman moves so a red dot appears on his face. Just as his hand grabs his gun another 'pfft' sounds and a .22 hollow point bullet passes through his left eye to end all interest he has in this world. With great care she reaches in to pull the man nearest her upright to lean him against the door pillar. Both now seem to be sitting upright while resting in the car. She then laid a sheet of paper on the dead man's lap that had the words "Honor Our Constitutional Rights!" written on it. Smiling, she walks off down the street.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 4:59:44 GMT -6
Siobhan and the women were preparing platters of finger food for the housewarming. "Siobhan, the house is AMAZING!" Alana said. "Where did you come up with the floorplan?" "It really started as Cal's plan. He listened to me for years when we discussed what a dream home would be like and he'd integrated my wishes into the floorplan he'd started . When he felt it was time, he showed me his rough plan and I knew it would be my dream house. Cal worked with a firm in Wisconsin that uses some unique log building technique and they put it together up there, shipped it down here and erected it." "What going to happen with your old cabin?" "That's Cheryl's project now. They're turning it into office space." "Where are the children?" "Billy and Becky took them to the Great Room and have a movie running for them." They all went out to the patio. "This patio is a dream!" "It's a little far to walk to Serenity Gardens, so Kengo is working on this area. He's putting in a stream and waterfall over there in the Spring." They heard the sounds of a plane as the Twin Otter flew overhead. "That must be Nick and Ken" Lilly said. "They took off yesterday morning on a 'secret' mission." Cal and several of the men were picking at the food platters as Nick and Ken walked in. Cal, Siobhan, we didn't know jack about a house warming gift, so we got you this." Nick said. They started bringing in boxes of frozen meat to the pantry and stacking it on the floor. "Nick knows a guy up near Saratoga, Wyoming that guarantees an elk, so we went and got you one." The other men help bring it in and Cal put it away in the freezer. "Must be quiet an outfit. It's already cut up and wrapped." Cal observed. "I sat a couple of packages aside to thaw on the way back in case you wanted to grill some this afternoon." Nick said. "Thanks guys. I love elk meat! Siobhan, would you get out the meat skewers?" Cal got out some spices and prepared kabobs. Jonah went out to the covered outdoor kitchen and prepared the grill. When Cal had the meat prepared, the men moved outside, along with their beers, and supervised while Cal cooked the meat. Reverend Lambry and Edna arrived as the meat finished cooking. Everyone moved to the Great Room. Billy shut the TV off . Reverend Lambry walked over to one of the wood columns and laid his hand on it. "May the Lord bless this house and everyone within it. May God make this house into a home. May he fill it with love and a generous welcome to all who visit. May family and friends find peace and contentment within this home. May their home always overflow with hospitality, warmth, and peace. May all who seek nourishment, be nourished. May this be a place where all can go for their happiness, growth, and refreshment. We pray that the Lord bless this house and protect all who dwell within it. Amen." Everyone echoed his "Amen" and started moving to the food. The ladies filtered through and presented Siobhan with decorative accent pieces and everyone had an enjoyable time. Cal and Siobhan went down to the General Store to look at the restaurant over, The "Grand Opening" was in a couple of days. They went into the Coffee Corner and Casey got them a couple of cups of coffee. Casey came over to their table with a magazine, grinning. "You've got to read this!" Taking the magazine, Siobhan began reading the article, out loud. "The book, though fiction, told it like it was, describing the journey of a nineteen years old man going from American pop culture one day to intensified training that only a few mastered, to urban areas and 3rd world countries, where an enemy you couldn't identify tried to kill you, twenty-four hours a day. The book described having to kill, when you didn't want to kill anybody, and watching his friends be killed. It described the hopelessness of it all, and the assumption that you could die, only to survive and then have survivor's guilt. The book pulled back the blanket that had covered up that life, a life the military and political bureaucracy didn't want exposed at all, because it exposed the ineptitude of the high echelons of leadership that led to thousands of deaths of young American men who wanted nothing more than to be able to cruise the main drag at home, sneak beer, and chase girls.
What the men got was a public that sent them to the pits of Hell, and then hated them for being there. Coming back was worse, in some cases, than having been there. That's why so many volunteered for another tour in the political messes greedy and inept politicians put them in.
Interspersed in the turmoil of serving your ungrateful country, it also told of the heartbreaks of a broken marriages and loss of loved ones to the dangers of liberal America.
This book, except for the fact that it's totally fiction, is 100% true.""It's #1 on the New York Times Best Sellers List!" Gordon came walking in, bent down, and kissed Casey on the cheek. "Cal grinned. "Well Gordon, looks like you hit the jackpot!" "Gordon nodded and squeezed Casey's shoulder. "I certainly have! Oh, you mean the book." Casey giggled. "We're moving the wedding back a couple of weeks to get the restaurant settled. "Who did you end up with for your chef?" "He's great! His name is Clift Waddell. He's been the sous chef at the Gun Barrel Steak & Game House in Jackson Hole. He helped me develop the menus and clued me in on meat suppliers for the best prices. We'll have bison, elk, and venison on the menu also." "It sounds wonderful, Casey." Siobhan said. "Do you have all your wait staff?" "Yes! Come, I will introduce them." Casey and Siobhan went out the door and walked over the porch to the restaurant. Well, Gordon, what's next on your agenda, besides getting married?" Gordon chuckled. "Oh, come up with an idea for another book and try to help Casey with the restaurant." "Got any ideas for a honeymoon?" "Believe it or not, Casey would like to visit the ranches and suppliers of the meat for the restaurant. Whatever makes her happy." "I hear you. Making direct contact with suppliers helps grease the skids sometimes. That reminds me, Dave and I are going in in the morning and visiting one of our suppliers of security equipment." Gordon and Cal went over and they gave Cal a tour of the restaurant." "Casey, we need to go. The children will be getting out of school soon." "Okay Siobhan. Don't forget, the Grand Opening is 1100 on Friday." "We'll be there!"
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 5:10:23 GMT -6
Both looked up when they hear a loud vehicle engine on the other side of the hedge. That shouldn't be happening because the area around the university is a 25 mph zone. So someone is speeding. The sound nears them and a black van races past the end of the sidewalk they're on. The tires screech due to heavy braking and the van comes to a halt in front of a car parked on the end of the row of cars several yards ahead of Cal and David. Four men get out of the van and race to surround the car they just blocked in with a young woman at its wheel. One man pulls on the door handle, but it doesn't open. One races to the other side to try that door while one stands to the side yelling orders and the last man is reaching into the van for something. The van's driver is in his seat with his head turned to watch what the other men are doing. The van's engine is still on, but it's idling while the van sits there. Cal starts running forward while saying, "David, grab the other two!" He doesn't wait to see what he does. The man giving orders is near the back of the van and he's the one closest to Cal. So Cal leaps and kicks man's back as hard as he can. Cal's right foot hits the man in the middle of his back about level with the bottom of his shoulder blades. The man is tossed forward with his upper body at an angle. On being hit the man screams at the same time as a gun fires. The man hits the ground hard with his hands hitting the road just before his body. His right hand opens from the pain of the contact with the road, and the handgun in it goes sliding across the road. The man's forehead hits the edge of the gutter with a loud crunch, and his scream stops. The man who turned to reach into the van is moving backward while turning toward the car with a heavy hammer in his hand when the gun fires. The bullet enters the back right quarter of his chest, and throws him sideways into the pillar between the front and back doors of the van while it tears through his chest and lung. The impact with the van causes him to let go of the hammer he's swinging while turning to his left. The hammer flies from his hand to hit the driver on the side of the head, knocking him sideways while breaking his neck in the process. After knocking the first man down with a flying kick, Cal continues his charge to the car. The man trying to open the driver's door half turns when he hears the gunshot. Seeing an attacker he turns more toward David while he braces for the impact. However, there is no impact because David half steps to his right while making a very fast upward swing with his open left hand. The bony part at the base of the palm of David's hand strikes under the man's jaw while still moving upward. The man's head goes back and there's a loud crack when his neck snaps from the force of the blow. The contact causes David's body to start to turn with his right half continuing forward, so he grabs hold of the man's shirt with his left hand to use the man as a pivot point while he turns as much as possible to throw himself onto the hood of the car. David hits the hood while still turning and rolling, but out of control. He slides across the hood to slam into the body of the last attacker. The man who ran around the car also looks up when he hears the gunshot. He sees his partners go down then one of the attackers is sliding across the car hood toward him. He grins while reaching for the knife in his pocket as he plans to cut this person up. However, he is still bringing the knife up from his pocket when David slides off the car hood to hit him in the chest with his hands held up in front of him. The kidnapper is off balance when David hits him and is thrown violently backwards. David is prepared to hit the ground hard but is ready to stop the last man from doing anything to hurt him. The man flies backwards much faster and harder than David expects him to. The man hits the next car, turns a bit, slides along it, falls to the ground, and heaves for a moment. David takes a quick look around, looking for more threats, and is surprised the last attacker isn't on his feet by now. David quickly steps up to the man and checked his pulse. There isn't one, so he leaves him to check on the others. All of them are dead. "Damn, now we won't find out what this was about." Cal said. Cal turned to the car where the girl is still sitting, shaking. "Dave, call 911 and I'll see to the girl." Cal got the girl out and led her over to a bench on the other side of the sidewalk and had her sit down. "Is there someone we can call for you?" "Oui…I mean yes, my father." "Si cela vous permet de mieux parler français, nous pouvons le faire." (If it makes you feel better to speak French, we can do so.)
"Merci. J'ai juste besoin de me calmer pour faire ma déclaration aux autorités." (Thank you. I just need to calm down to give my statement to the authorities.)"My name is Cal Coleman. What is your name?" Cal asked. "Gabriel Comtois. Thank you for helping me. I should call my father." "Yes, of course. I'll be right over there." The police arrived a few seconds later. "Cal? What happened?" Cal and David gave their statements separately while a policewoman took Gabriel's statement. When they had finished, Gabriel walked over to Cal. "My Father wishes to talk with you." Cal took her phone. "Bonjour, c'est Cal Coleman qui parle." (Hello, this is Cal Coleman speaking.)Bonjour, monsieur Coleman. Je m'appelle Jacque Comtois. Merci d'avoir sauvé ma fille. J'enverrai un avion pour la récupérer dans quelques heures. Puis-je vous demander d'assurer sa sécurité jusqu'à mon arrivée?" (Hello, Mr. Coleman. My name is Jacque Comtois. Thank you for saving my daughter. I will be sending a plane to retrieve her in a few hours. Could I ask you to ensure her safety until I get there?)
"Mais bien sûr! En fait, je vais l'emmener à mon ranch, qui est très sécurisé. Sur votre vol ici, vous pouvez passer la douane à Denver et voler à mon ranch. J'ai une piste de 3048 mètres qui gobe un avion d'affaires. et carburant disponible." (But of course! In fact, I will take her to my ranch, which is very secure. On your flight here, you can clear customs in Boston and fly to my ranch. I have a 3048 meter runway that will handle a business jet and we have fuel available.)"Ce serait parfait! Quelles sont les coordonnées de l'aérodrome?" (That would be perfect! What are the coordinates of the airfield?)"Les coordonnées sont 38 degrés 59 minutes 46 secondes Nord, 108 degrés 47 minutes 45 secondes Ouest. Indicatif d'appel HTR, fréquence radio 122.900." (The coordinates are 38 degrees 59 minutes 46 seconds North, 108 degrees 47 minutes 45 seconds West. Call sign HTR, radio frequency 122.900.)"Très bien. J'ai hâte de vous rencontrer dans quelques heures Monsieur Coleman. Au revoir." (Very well. I look forward to meeting you in a few hours Mr. Coleman. Good bye.)Cal handed the phone back to Gabriel and she continued talking to her father. "Cal, did you have to kill them all? We're going to have a hard time finding out why they were trying to kidnap her." Officer Hagan asked.
"Bill, they mostly killed each other. But her father may have some idea about what's going on. If I find out anything, I'll let you know. Are we free to go?"
"Yeah, sure. I'll call you if we need anything." Cal walked over to Gabriel. "Gabriel, I'll be taking you out to my Ranch for your security. Your Father is going to fly there to pick you up." "Yes, he told me. Thank you so much for your help. I need to get my things from the car." Cal and David helped move her things to the Suburban and they left for the Ranch. On the way he called Siobhan. "Tá aoi baineann á thabhairt abhaile agam. An féidir leat cúpla seomra a shocrú sa teach? Tá a athair ag eitilt isteach ón bhFrainc chun í a fháil. Chomh maith leis sin, Cuir socruithe ar fáil do bheirt nó triúr eile sa teach bun. Míneoidh mé gach rud nuair a théim abhaile. " (I'm bringing home a female guest. Can you arrange a couple of rooms in the house? Her father is flying in from France to get her. Also, Make accommodations available for two or three more in one of the empty cabins. I'll explain everything when I get home.)"You speak many languages, Mr. Coleman." David chuckled. "He's been plenty of places to learn them." They drove through the gate and up to the house. "This is beautiful!" Exclaimed Gabriel. Siobhan met them on the porch, "Siobhan, this is Gabriel Comtois. Gabriel, my wife, Siobhan." "Welcome, Gabriel. Come, I'll show you to your room so you can freshen up."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 5:16:01 GMT -6
Cal followed with Gabriel's bags and set them in the Great Room. Siobhan and Cal left and went to the kitchen. "Smells good! What's for lunch?" "Chili. Will she eat chili?" Cal shrugged. "Don't know." "Okay, tell me what happened." Cal went over the events of the morning and about the call with her father. ""Why do you think they would kidnap her?" "I haven't the slightest idea. Could be political, international crime, or it could be human traffickers. No telling right now." "What bedrooms are you giving them?" "Becky's and Billy's. They wanted to sleep in their shelter bedrooms." Gabriel walked in. "Is that chili? I love chili!" Siobhan smiled. "Let's sit at the bar. You want coffee or maybe a hot cup of tea?" Gabriel screwed up her nose. "Could I have iced tea?" Cal chuckled and got the iced tea out of the refrigerator. Siobhan got out glasses and filled them with ice. "This is a beautiful house, Siobhan." "Well thank you. We've just finished moving in. We'll have our tea and I'll show you around." Siobhan took Gabriel on the tour of the house while Cal called Mike. "Hey Mike. I need the runway lights on tonight between 1900 and 2400. There's a plane coming in from France." "Roger. I'll man the tower. Any precautions needed?" "Nope, this is clean. Thanks Mike." "No problem." At 2230 that night Mike call Cal. "Cal, I have a Dassault Falcon on Final." "Thanks, Mike. I'll be right there." Cal hurried to the airfield and watched as one of the mechanics guided the Falcon to its parking space. When the engines were shut off, the stairs came down. An elderly man came down the stairs and walked up to Cal. "Monsieur Coleman, I presume." "Please, call me Cal" and shook his hand. "Very well. I am Jacque." "Jacque, your daughter awaits you at our house." "Benny, will you take the crew to #35 Kinsale? Insure they have everything to make them comfortable." One of the crew members brought over Jacque's travel bag for Cal to load into the Suburban. After seeing the crew was taken care of and the plane locked up, Cal took Jacque to the house. "This is quite impressive!" Said Jacque. "It is my wife's pride and joy." Grinned Cal. As they came to the front door, Gabriel rush out the door and hugged her father. "Papa! I am so glad to see you!" Cal ushered them into the Great Room as Siobhan walked in. "Jacque, this is my wife Siobhan." "Enchantée Madame." (Enchanted Madame)
"May I offer you some wine?" "Oh please, allow me. I have a couple of bottles from my winery in my bag. I also have four more cases of assorted wines for you on the plane." Cal took the wine into the kitchen and opened the bottle, returning with the wine and glasses on a tray. "So Jacque, how was your flight?" "Uneventful. We did our refueling and customs check in Boston. It is surprising to find a private airfield of this size here in the wilderness." Jacque said, grinning.
"Cal grinned and nodded. "It's used for test and evaluations." "So, tell me, daughter of mine. What happened to you?" Gabriel related the events to her father." "It is fortunate Cal was there to intervene. I have no idea why they would be abducting you, other than your beauty. I have no enemies that I'm aware of." "The police are still investigating. I'm sure they'll make a link as soon as the men are identified." Cal said. They talked for another half hour then Gabriel showed her father to his room. "Cal, I need to you to go down to the Coffee Corner in the morning and pick up some fresh pastries for breakfast. Gabby and I made dough for croissants while waiting for her father." "No problem. Casey opens up at 0600 so they should still be warm at breakfast."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 5:23:06 GMT -6
Siobhan was pulling a sheet of fresh-baked croissants out of the oven when Jacque and Gabriel walked into the kitchen. "The croissants smell delicious!" Beamed Gabriel. "I'll be just a minute. I'll set up everything in the dining room." "That's not necessary, Siobhan. The breakfast bar is fine." Jacques said. "Not enough room. Cal went down to bring the crew up for breakfast too." Siobhan got a bowel of fresh cut-up fruit and the blueberry and currant jams out of the refrigerator. She transferred the jams to dishes and placed them on a tray. Gabriel helped her carry the fruit and jams into the dining room and helped place dishes and cups on the table. Siobhan placed two warming baskets of croissants on the table. "Jacque, would you prefer tea or coffee? Cal made the coffee. He calls it 'Cowboy Coffee,' but says it's similar to European tastes." "I will try the coffee then." Cal and crew members walked in and Siobhan directed them to the dining room. Cal transferred the strong coffee to a carafe and brought into the dining room with a pitcher of creamer. Everyone had coffee, except for Gabriel, who had tea. "This confiture….jam is delicious! Jacque exclaimed. "What are they made from?" "Siobhan smiled. "This one is Blueberry and that one is Currant." We make it here on the Ranch. If you like, I can box a few jars up and you can take them back with you." "Thank you very much. That would be delightful!" "Jacque, if you have time, I could take you and Gabriel on a tour of the Ranch." Cal offered. "That would certainly be enjoyable, thank you." When they had finished breakfast, Gabriel helped Siobhan collect the dishes. Cal called Benny and had him come and pick up the plane crew who wanted to service the plane. Cal first took the Comtois to the greenhouses. They were amazed at the growing operation and Jacque showed interest in the grapevines Dawn showed them. These grapes would make a fine wine. Do you have interest in doing that?" Dawn shook her head. "Not yet, possibly in the future. I've planted several different varieties to see which will do the best." Siobhan showed them Serenity Garden which Gabriel adored. They finally arrived at the airfield, where Cal showed them the planes. "You have a very nice estate. There is more to it than it initially seems." Jacque said. The flight crew came off the plane carrying cases of wine. Cal directed them to place the wine in the back of the UV34. "Cal, this is just a small token of my appreciation for taking care of Gabriel." "Jacque, it was the right thing to do." Cal's phone rang so he stepped over to the side to answer it. "Cal? Maria. I just wanted you to know that trash you and David took out are linked to Human Traffickers. She was probably headed to a brothel overseas somewhere." "Thanks Maria. I'll let her father know. He was wondering if he had some enemies he didn't know about." Cal pressed the End Call button and walked back over to the group. "That was my contact with the police. Those men were known to be involved with Human Trafficking. Chances are, they didn't even know who she was, but I would take precautions in the future." "To be assured!. Thank you Cal, Siobhan for your hospitality. You must visit us in Chablis." "And you are welcome here anytime Jacque." They watched as the two boarded the plane and waited for them to take off. "That turned out well." Siobhan sighed. "Yeah, it could have been bad. Hey. we've got to get to Grand Opening!" Cal and Siobhan and Brigid hurried to the General Store and got there at 1055. There was already around 30 people waiting outside. Then the door rattled and Casey came outside and set up a sandwich board with the day's special. "Welcome to Mesa View Dining!" Casey shouted. "Cal! Is that your Saucy Meatloaf she has listed?" Siobhan asked. Cal chuckled. "Yeah, she asked me for a few easy to fix recipes. I guess the chef liked some of them." Casey flipped the door sign to open and held the door as people streamed in. Casey and Gordon stayed on the porch. "Cal, stay here just a minute." Gordon requested. They heard a vehicle coming and turned as a strange vehicle came around the corner of the building. Cal started laughing.
"What the he…?" Miguel Becerra came driving up in a slightly familiar vehicle. "Miguel, what the hell is this?" The vehicle was painted the colors of the Twin Otter with the brand logo on the front doors. "This my friend, is your 1942 Dodge Command Car. The same kind General Patton used. You've done so much for everyone, we thought we'd give something back." Cal walked around, looking it over, grinning. "I don't know what to say. This is great!" Miguel smiled. "Here are your keys. Now, I want to try that Saucy Meatloaf." "Want to go for a ride?" Cal asked Siobhan. "No, not now. Why don't you take Gordon for a spin in your new toy? Casey and I will be inside." Gordon grinned and jumped into the front passenger seat and Cal went around and got into the driver's seat. "All that's missing Cal, is a .50 caliber mount up here." Cal chuckled and drove the car down the road toward the Circle B.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 5:29:51 GMT -6
Avalanches don't just happen all of a sudden. They begin with one pebble or a flake of snow. It's always the little things that set other things off that ends up something massive happening. Like a pebble coming loose from under a boulder, with it bouncing down a mountainside. With that ONE pebble now missing, other pebbles begin to move and soon, they too are rolling and bouncing down that mountainside following that first pebble which has disturbed other pebbles. And from that one little pebble in the beginning, so begins a massive avalanche wiping out everything in its path.
In the political world, things became volatile with the gradual deceitfulness and dirty tricks of the Democrat party. Over the years, they became more belligerent every time things didn't go their way. Then came an election whose results they didn't agree with. Supporters of the other side were considered stupid. The first pebble rolled down the hill. Then the Democrats spent millions on prosecuting false claims. They tried to change laws to allow more illegal immigrants to stay in the United States, to gather more votes for their party. Another pebble broke loose, hitting another pebble and making it roll. Then, if you were against any of their ideology, you were called a Nazi. A dislodged, fist sized rock started to roll and in turn started a patch of sand sliding. Fascist and anarchist groups were allowed to get away with rioting, arson, and looting. A head sized rock started rolling, sending bigger ones tumbling downhill, this lead to striking the first of many boulders.. When groups for the other side held demonstrations against the Democrat's (Donkeycraps) actions, they were accused of every illegal thing the Donkeycraps had been doing for years. Another layer of soil started sliding and rocks tumbling. Then came the election that should have been a landslide, and it was, it was because of blatant and widespread election fraud by a cabal of the left. The Democrats and the RINOs told the people to shut up and accept the results. The mountain gave away. Then Fascists, Anarchists, and their supporters started dying. The Liberty Tree needs fertilizing. The 2nd Civil War had begun. NEWS FLASH"Today, in Portland, 9 peaceful demonstrators and a bystander were shot dead by unknown assailants during a peaceful demonstration, Confidential sources say the slain were either leaders of the demonstration or more active participants. The bystander was identified as Kareem Obanto, BLM activist, Democratic Socialist of America member, and one of the organizers of the demonstration. Several buildings were burned and property damage is believed to be in the millions. The police have no evidence of the identity of the assailants, but did say a small caliber gun was used.." Ryan and Shannon finished the tests on the capacitor module and found it did increase the charge life of the battery. "We need to install these on all the systems here at the Ranch." Shannon nodded. "If we can get Joshua to fabricate a few boxes, we can do the circuit boards." "Agreed. I don't want this to get out yet. I'll file a patent application immediately, but I don't want to go public until I refine the capacitors. Someone stumbled over a new process to use carbon nanosheets made of hemp plants instead of graphene to make supercapacitors. If it works out, we could use them in the module." "Okay, back to work!" Shannon grinned.
It was between Sisters and Bend, Hugh saw the dog laying by the road, not moving. At first he thought it was dead from a hit and run, but when it lifted its head, he decided to pull over the RV to check it out. The dog could barely lift its head as he approached and realized the dog had been abandoned somewhere and maybe trying to get home. Collar yes, but no tags of course. Using the metal bowl he had eaten cereal from earlier in the day, he poured water into it for the dog who greedily lapped it up; as in drinking a full gallon of water. There should be a dog pound in Bend, there usually is in a town that size. But maybe 20 minutes down the road, the dog started pawing at the door, so he pulled over with the dog quickly running out to take care of business. She came back inside and once again, the two started down the road for Bend. But when he got into town, he realized the dog was something more than just a dog, but a physical symbol of what he had gone thru. That is, suddenly losing everything he had planned for in life with his girlfriend hooking up with his liberal ass neighbor. In this case, no doubt the dog had had a home, but for unknown reasons, simply abandoned out in the middle of nowhere and waiting to die while watching car after car simply pass her by. And he KNEW what her name was now: Karma. He told her that her name was Karma and that Karma was a bitch....and really laughed for the first time since all of this started. At a PetSmart, he got her a physical and all shots needed, including a dog tag for her. He bought a large bag of dry and wet dog food, then made a dog tag saying, "Karma's a Bitch" and couldn't helping laughing a little bit as it got finished. Now, back on the road to Colorado. Cruise control made things so much easier. "Billy, Becky, are you two ready to go?" Cal shouted. "Where are you flying today?" Siobhan asked. "We'll fly down to Mineral County, refuel and return. Ken will take Becky and I'll have Billy. We'll probably let them do some practice landings and takeoffs." "How can I get in touch with you?" "I'll take my Satphone." Ken took the lead and had Becky do her pre-flight inspection and watched her on her checklist. She took no time getting into the air. Billy did the same thing and took up trail position. Ken wanted them to experience the different wind gusts flying through the canyons, and he got his wish. Both he and Cal kept a light hand on the stick in case the kids over corrected during a gust, but both were doing extremely well. When they got to the Mineral County Airport, Billy circled around while Becky made her landing. She had a good headwind and landed in less than 50 feet. Billy aligned the plane and came to a stop just short of Becky's rollout. They taxied the planes over to the fuel pump and got out. Cal and Ken walked over to the side and watched them. "If they were the right age, I think they could solo now." Cal mused. "Both are naturals. It will just give them more experience until they become legal age to solo." Ken said. Becky moved her plane forward and Billy taxied to the pump. "Let's take them to Huntington next trip, the back by Canyonlands to here." Ken nodded. Good trip." Billy signaled he was finished and he and Becky did their inspections and Billy took the lead back home.
"I'm going to build some more parking space, underground." "What did you say, Cal?" "I said I'm going to build parking space underground," moving the paper he was sketching on over to Siobhan. "I'll put up a Quonset Hut shell, overlay it with Shotcrete, and cover it with debris. I can use a fiberglass and steel slanted door and cover it with fake rocks the same color as the rocks around. Hydraulic lifts would raise and lower the door using a remote transmitter. It'll be wide enough to house the Command Car and two UV34s side-by-side. I'll have Diana bore an entrance in the back of it." "A bold undertaking, my brave knight!" Cal grinned. "Well, I don't have a place to park the Command Car and the uV34 parking shed we had next to the office." Siobhan grinned. "I know. I was just poking." "I'll turn the main project over to Harris, putting in the shell, the rebar, and the Shotcrete, and I'll use our people to do the rest. I'll do a better, to-scale drawing, and get it to Harris tomorrow. His engineers can figure out the rest."
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Post by kiwibutterfly on Aug 9, 2021 5:33:42 GMT -6
I seem to be right behind you this evening (in New Zealand) AGAIN...great story...so thank you but now its time for me to hit the pillow...
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 5:39:47 GMT -6
Cal took his plans into Ed Harris the next morning. "Yeah, we can do this. Have you got the Quonset shell yet?" "Nope. I'm leaving here and going to see Sam to order it." "Let me order it. I can get a discount. I'll have my guys start figuring the rebar and Shotcrete. How thick do you want the shell?" "Make it eight inches. I'll be covering it." "All right. We'll start working on this." As Cal was heading back to the Ranch, he was thinking of the other things he needed to do. He wanted to put a Nature's Head Self Contained Composting Toilet in the underground garage, plus he needed to order another blast door. He'd order both when he reached home. "You're taking Brigid and I to lunch at Casey's" Siobhan announced as he walked through the door. "Oh, I am, am I?" "Good, we'll take the Command Car." "But you'll need a car seat…" "Already installed." There was already a pretty good lunch crowd when they got there. Casey saw them come through the door and she grabbed a high chair for Brigid and guided them over to a large round table. "Cal, this is my version of a Stammtisch. Only Ranch residents get to sit here." "Casey, you take a page out of Frank's book?" Cal laughed. "As a matter of fact I did. But I felt it was more fitting here. Now, before you order, I want you to try our elk burger, with potato salad." Cal looked at Siobhan and she nodded. "Sounds good. Could we have Iced tea? What do you have that Brigid can eat?" "I'll get here a small piece of elk steak. It's so tender my great grandmother could eat it without teeth. I'll add some green beans and mashed potatoes." Casey reached up on a shelf on the wall and took down a sippy cup and sat it on the table. "I'll bring her some apple juice." Call looked around. The place was almost full. Some he recognized from ranches around there but there were lot that he didn't recognize. Casey came back with a bottle of apple juice and poured half in the cup for Brigid. "Casey, If this place is at full capacity, do you have enough parking?"
"Barely. We could probably use twenty-five more spaces to be on the safe side." "Okay. We'll see what we can do." A waitress brought their meals. Cal was thinking it would be ground elk meat, but instead it was one inch thick piece of elk with lettuce and tomato. When Cal tasted the elk burger, his eyes lit up. "My God! This is the best!." When they had finished, the waitress brought three small dishes of Palisade Peach Dumplings with fresh cream. "I must be going to die. This is heaven!" Siobhan exclaimed. Casey came over to the table, grinning. "How was your meal?" Siobhan looked up after swallowing another bite of the dumplings. "That was just a burger. I can't imagine what the dinner meals are like!" "I'm telling you. Clift is a godsend. I'm giving him the go ahead to develop his cuisine. We'll probably lose him some day, but I'll hang on to him as long as I can." "Pay him as much as you can. He's a winner." Cal said. Jeannie accessed every program in the state government computer system which gave alternatives of having information presented in English or another language. When she pressed the delete button, ALL language programs which gave the option of having information provided in different languages by Colorado's government were deleted. She believed ENGLISH was the language of America, not Spanish, German, Japanese, etc. If they wanted to live in America or conduct commerce, then learn the language. You have to learn the local language in any other country in the world you want to live in. NEWS FLASH"New York Attorney General Raymond Walford and his aid were killed today by unknown assailants on the I-787. The Attorney General on Tuesday announced he would seek sanctions against any lawyer who has filed numerous failed lawsuits in New York and other states across the country to dispute the election results. These lawsuits were turned aside by activist judges without allowing evidence from the plaintiffs to be reviewed. The Governor has assigned extra security personnel to judges in the state, adding millions in unintended costs to the huge budget deficit."
Diana cut the new access up to within two feet of exiting the rock wall. This allowed the outer to be completed before they punched through. It also allowed them to reinforce the tunnel because Dianna found some cracks that might become problems in the future. Ed Harris and his crew had completed the structure and Cal and his people moved in and completed the back and fronts of the structure and completed the connection to the mesa tunnel. Dennis used the excavator to fill over the Quonset shell and carefully arranged the spalling off the mesa to look natural. The door and imitation rocks were completed and tested. Soon, you couldn't tell there was anything there but a natural slope. The blast door and bathroom enclosure were installed and Cal ended up with an underground parking enclosure thirty by forty feet with more than adequate room to store the vehicles or whatever he wanted to store. It was getting late and Hugh was getting tired. He didn't want to arrive at his mother's late at night in Breckenridge, so he decided to pull into the state park in Rifle and spend the night. Karma looked like she needed a break also. After finding his RV space, he took Karma for a walk down by the falls. They returned to the RV and Hugh opened a can of beef stew and shared with Karma. Taking a lawn chair outside, Hugh sat sipping on three fingers of scotch, Karma by his side, quietly enjoying the night air.
"I need a place to make a semi-permanent base, home, whatever you want to call it" thought Hugh. "I damn sure don't want it in Breckenridge. Maybe find some land in the middle of nowhere and build what I want. Michael. Michael is working near Grand Junction. Maybe there's something down that way."
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Post by gipsy on Aug 9, 2021 8:59:24 GMT -6
Cool beans
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Post by cavsgt on Aug 9, 2021 10:55:03 GMT -6
OK I have to try to get something done today so no more checking to see if there is more. This is one of the best stories that I have read in a longtime.
THANK YOU AGAIN
Phill
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Post by biggkidd on Aug 9, 2021 11:29:48 GMT -6
OK I have to try to get something done today so no more checking to see if there is more. This is one of the best stories that I have read in a longtime. THANK YOU AGAIN Phill WHAT HE SAID!
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Post by gipsy on Aug 9, 2021 11:34:09 GMT -6
We are going to give him a swelled ego if we keep this up so lets keep it up.
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Post by cavsgt on Aug 9, 2021 11:51:19 GMT -6
OK so I am a liar back already to see if there is an update. No update so I will just go on to the eye Dr.
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Post by biggkidd on Aug 9, 2021 12:25:30 GMT -6
Me too To dang humid & hot to continue outside right now!
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Post by biggkidd on Aug 9, 2021 12:26:44 GMT -6
We are going to give him a swelled ego if we keep this up so lets keep it up. If the shoe fits!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 14:02:21 GMT -6
"Hugh! I didn't know you were coming!"
"It's good to see you Mom."
"And who do we have here?" Betty said, bending down to the dog.
"Her name is Karma. I found here by the road and rescued her."
"Karma. That is a strange name. How long are you going to be here. I could call Michael and maybe get together."
"I won't be here long. I just wanted to see you and make sure you were doing fine."
"I would be fine if my sons were nearer to me. Come on, let's get some coffee."
Betty poured them both a cup and sat down at the counter next to her son.
"So, do you have any plans that might bring me some grandchildren."
Hugh grinned and shook his head. "No Mom, but I do have the itch to settle down. I'm thinking about going to see Michael and maybe buying some land and custom build a house near him."
"Well thank goodness! It's about time. Are you going to start using that degree from MIT?"
"I might, if anything comes my way, maybe. I'll probably be busy for the next few months with looking for land and constructing my home."
Betty sighed. "I miss my boys. Nothing in Breckenridge enthuses me anymore."
Hugh grinned. "Are you trying to plant a guilt trip on me? Why don't you come with me to see Michael and help me find a place. I can build a Mother-in-Law suit and you'll be close to both your sons."
Betty's eyes brightened. "You would let me live with you?"
"Of course! We can work together on the house design and you can dream of the grandchildren you don't have."
"Well, then you'll have me looking also for the mother of my future grandchildren."
"Hugh chuckled. "Good luck with that! Okay, let me call Michael and set up a time. We can take the RV down and stay in it. Why don't you start getting your bags packed?"
Hugh got on the internet to look for real estate brokers in the Grand Junction area. After taking the information down, he called his brother.
"Michael looked at his iPhone and grunted. "I don't have the bail money!"
Hugh laughed. "You dog! I've missed you. Say, I'm getting itchy, looking for a place to settle down. Mom and I are coming to Grand Junction to start looking for a place to buy."
"Mom? I thought she loved Breckenridge!"
"I think she's burned out. It was always Dad that liked the high society. Look, I'll be driving my RV down. Can you think of, off hand, any RV parks around Grand Junction? I guess I could Google it."
"Not off hand, wait a second." Michael walked out to the reception area. "Anyone know of an RV park nearby?"
Cathleen walked out of storeroom. "Why, what's going on?"
"My brother and mother are coming down in an RV, real estate hunting. I wanted them close by."
"We have the RV pad where Gordon was keeping his EarthRoamer, but he has it parked next to Casey's cabin now. Hang on. Let me give you the coordinates from Google Earth of the clinic and he can come here first."
"Hang on Hugh, I'll give you the coordinates of where you need to come to."
Cathleen came back with the coordinates and Michael read the off.
"Okay, Mom and I should be there around 4:00 PM. See you later Bro!"
Cathleen dialed Cal's number. "Dad? Isn't the RV pad clear?"
"Yeah, Whatcha need?"
Cathleen explained everything.
""Fine. Well, why don't you and Michael and his family join us for dinner? We can give them gate cards so they can come and go as they please."
"Okay, thanks Dad. We'll see you this evening."
"Dad said the pad was open and he's invited all of us to dinner tonight."
"Great. Now, let's go look at that horse at the Greer place." "Michael, we've just cleared the tunnel in the Colorado National Monument. We should be there within thirty minutes, according to my GPS."
"Great! Then we'll see you soon!."
Hugh drove a couple of miles further on, then pulled into a scenic overlook.
"What's wrong, Hugh?" Betty asked.
"Nothing Mom. I just wanted to stop and look."
Hugh got out and walked to the edge of the overlook. "This is it." He thought. "I can feel it. This is where I need to be."
Chip looked out the window of the clinic. "Hey Michael! I think your brother is here!"
A large RV towing a toy trailer pulled into the parking lot, Michael and Cathleen walked out and met Hugh and Betty as they came out of the vehicle. Michael hugged his mother and embraced Hugh.
Mom, Hugh, this is Cathleen. Cathleen is the other veterinarian here."
Chip, Sabrina, and Amanda walked out of the clinic and over to them.
"Oh, and this is Amanda, Chip and Sabrina."
Hugh looked around. "Nice clinic, brother. Kind of far out in the sticks, isn't it?"
"We're getting plenty of business. As a matter of fact, we're running in the black."
"So soon?" Congrats!"
Michael turned to Chip and Cathleen. "Ladies, do you think we can close up? I need to lead them to the RV pad and we need to get ready for dinner."
Cathleen nodded and told the girls to close shop. She'd go with Michael to lead Hugh there.
They pulled through the back gate and stopped once the RV and trailer cleared the entrance. Cathleen got out and secured the gate. Michael led them to the RV parking pad where he helped Hugh hook up the water, electric, and sewer lines.
"We'll be back to get you in an hour. We're having dinner with Cal's family tonight."
"Cat, I'll be by to pick up at your cabin."
"Okay Michael. I'll see you in a few."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 14:03:44 GMT -6
Michael picked up Cathleen and they drove over to the RV pad and picked up Betty and Hugh. They drove up to the Coleman cabin and were met by Cal and Siobhan the porch. "Betty got out and just stared. What a beautiful place!" Michael introduced his mother and brother to the Colemans. "Welcome to our home." Siobhan said. "Come in, please." Siobhan led them to the great room and offered them drinks, which Cal brought in. Cal sat down. "So Hugh, you're looking to settle around her?" "Yes, I've traveled a lot and feel it's time to establish roots away from the hustle and bustle of Breckenridge." "Well, I hope you find something that suits you." "Yes, I've contacted several real estate agents in the area and hope they can find something for us." "Us?" "Yes, my mother also wants to get out of Breckenridge. I want to find some property and build for both of us." "Admirable. There's a great builder in town I recommend. If I can be of any assistance, please feel free to call on me." "Thanks Cal. I appreciate it." Michael and Hugh stayed up late talking, catching up on everything (almost) in their lives. "What happened to that Lucy you were going with? I thought that was pretty serious." Michael asked. "Lacy. Her name was Lacy. Well, she got a little too demanding. I finally realized that I could never stay married to her. She was a social climber. It got to the point I was grinding my teeth every time she opened her mouth. Beautiful girl, but a shrew at heart. However, I found out giving out her goodies to a neighbor. When she went to work one day, I packed my clothes and left. I traded in my BMW for a Jeep, bought that motor coach and toy hauler, and headed west. I couldn't get away fast enough from the Chicago skyline. I traveled for a few months and decided to head this way when people in Portland went stupid." "Uh…you didn't have anything to do with what happened in Portland did you?" "Michael, you know not to ask me those kinds of questions. I need to turn in. I'm meeting with a realtor in the morning to look at some properties."
"Okay, I guess I'll see you tomorrow. Hey, let's meet for dinner. There's a great place nearby. Give me a call when you get back from land hunting."
"Great!. We'll do that. Good night." "I know you said you wanted to look at raw acreage, but I do have one 32 acre property where the house burned down. It has a good well and a few outbuildings. The owners, instead of rebuilding, decided to move to Florida to be closer to their daughter." "Hmmm…that would save me the expense of digging a well. Let's take a look at that then." "We're headed toward Glade Park?" "That's right Mr. Thompson." "This is kinda the area I wanted to be in. My brother lives in this area." The turned off the state road onto a dirt road, and went about 800 yards. Driving up to the remains of a burned out house, they parked and got out. Hugh walked around and took his time looking at the out buildings and the terrain. Large steel beam open span 100x60 shop had an overhead crane and two jib cranes. There was detached 2 car finished garage, and what looked to be a 60x30 hay barn. There was also a gas well on the other side of the hay barn. "Does that gas well produce?" "Yes, but it's no longer viable commercially. The owners used it to provide gas to their heating, hot water and cooking." "How much land is here? "Thirty two acres. They're asking $150,000." "Hmmmph! Put in an offer of $135,000, cash." "It's possible they'll accept. They're wanting it off their hands as soon as possible. I'll contact them as soon as we get back." Hugh drove the realtor back to her office. On the way back to the Coleman ranch, Betty spoke for the first time. "That was awful quick. You could have looked at more properties." "Mom, that place is just what I was looking for. The terrain needs little forming, the well is good and the pump looks almost brand new. The drive needs a little work, but that's fixable. I need to talk with Cal. He has the whole Ranch on alternative power. That's the way I want to go. I've got the plans for a log home, similar to the size of Cal and Siobhan's, I pulled out of a magazine. I sure one of the builders can duplicate it. They arrived back at the Ranch and drove up to Cal's place. Siobhan and Brigid were out in the yard walking around. "Hello! Did you have any luck?" "Hello Siobhan, yes I think we did. The realtor is phoning in an offer. I wanted to talk to Cal about builders and such." "He's up at the airfield. I'll take Betty in and we can gossip and drink some tea. Why don't you go on over there and talk to him. Just go up Kinsale and take the second left. That will take you to the airfield." Hugh got back into his Jeep and drove to the airfield. He parked in the parking area and walked over to the first hangar. No one there. He kept on walking and stopped when he saw through the partially opened doors, two helicopter gunships. Noise distracted him and he saw a plane being towed out of another hanger. Hugh spotted Cal helping to other men move the plane. "What is this?" Hugh asked. Cal grinned. "This is a SuperSTOL. I own two of them." "I've heard of the SuperSTOL but never saw one in person." "It is really a fun plane to fly. My kids are taking lessons and have a couple of hundred hours on them. They're just waiting to reach legal age to solo and get their license." "I've got a few hundred hours on a 172. I've got about 1000 feet I could put a runway on at the place I've put in an offer for. This might be just the plane I need." "This plane will take off and land in less than half that distance. Come on. I was just about to go up and fly around for a while. Let you get a feel for it." Cal did his walk-around inspection and they got in. "Nice display." Hugh said. "I got it with everything offered. Since the kids will be flying them, I wanted them well equipped." Cal taxied out to the threshold and called Mike on the radio. "Mike, we're flying to Hanksville and back." "Okay, Cal, have a good flight." "Hanksville? Where's that?" "Utah. Put your feet on the pedals lightly and follow me. Just hold the stick to feel what I'm doing." Cal slowly pushed the throttle forward and was off the ground in less than 200 feet. "Wow!" Hugh said. "And I did that gently. I can do it in less distance." They flew for a while when Cal let Hugh take the stick. "Very responsive. This is a nice little plane. I've got to get one of these!" "Well, I've got all the info for you. We flew these back from South Carolina. Nice flight." "The place I put an offer in on has a burned out house on it. I want to clear that and build a new log home. Out buildings are in good shape. Well is good. I've got plans I tore out of a magazine for the builder to go by." "Well, I've got just the man for you to talk to. He's built all of the log homes and buildings on the Ranch and does excellent work." "What about alternative energy? Who did that for you?" "Truthfully? The best guy I know of lives on the Ranch. Toss him a few bucks and he'll set you up a system you wouldn't believe. I'll introduce you and take you in and introduce you to Sam Calbert, the log home guy. He can square you away."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 14:05:11 GMT -6
They flew to Hanksville, where Cal did a short landing and refueled. Cal let Hugh take off and fly back to the Ranch and land.
"If you do buy a SuperSTOL, I recommend you get the full packet with the training."
"I think I will. It really is fun to fly. I just need to get a hangar built."
"Sam can handle that too."
On the way back to his RV, Hugh's phone rang.
"Mr. Thompson? This is Celia Bates. Your offer has been accepted by the owners. If you will come in in the morning, I'll have the paperwork ready for you."
"Thank you Ms. Bates. Will 10:00 be okay?"
"That will be fine. I'll see you then."
His mother wasn't in the RV so he assumed she was still visiting with Siobhan. He drove up to the house as Cal was going in.
"Cal, is my mother still here?"
"I don't know. Come in and let's check."
As they went in, Siobhan and Betty were just coming downstairs.
"Siobhan has been giving me some good ideas." Betty smiled.
"Well, they've accepted my offer. Ms. Bates will have the paperwork ready for me in the morning." Hugh said.
"What about the title search?" Cal asked.
"Already done. I just need to go to the bank and get a check cut. There's a branch of my bank in town."
"Hugh, if it's okay with you and Betty, she could ride in with you to the realtors and Siobhan and I could meet you two at Frank's BBQ for lunch. After lunch, you and I can go see Sam Calbert and start on your house plans while Siobhan shows Betty all the great places to burn money."
Hugh chuckled. "Sounds like a plan. We'll see you for lunch tomorrow then." The next morning Cal, Siobhan and Brigid met Hugh and Betty at 1130 at Frank's. Frank welcomed them as usual and ushered them to their table.
"I have brisket that came out of the smoker only 20 minutes ago."
"That'll be fine Frank. You have the best in the state."
Frank grinned and nodded then turned to put their orders together."
"How did it go with the realtor?"
"Everything's in order. I just need to put the plan together."
"How big is your home going to be?"
"The plan I have here says 6300 square feet. Mom's looked it over. Over here above the garage is a suite with kitchenette, sitting room, bathroom, and bedroom for Mom. That's the biggest thing. Whatever plan we can come up with similar will be fine."
The waitress and Frank brought over their meals and, as usual, it was delicious. When they had finished, Frank came over and sat with them for a few minutes."
"Frank, you need to come out and see our new house." Siobhan said.
Frank sighed. "It has been very busy here. Between the two restaurants, there is always something going on."
Siobhan patted his arm. "You need to start get a manager for here, and just stand back a let them run things."
"I know. I will start looking."
Cal let the tip and the ladies too Cal's Suburban and Cal went with Hugh, giving him directions.
"Sam, this is Hugh Thompson. He needs a house and a hangar built."
Hugh stepped forward and gave Sam the plan out of the magazine.
"I'm looking for something like this."
Sam looked at the small plan for a minute.
"I can't believe this! I was just on the phone with Wisconsin Log Homes, the company that put Cal's log home together. They've got a completed house sitting there that they're trying to get rid of. The original owners were flying out to Wyoming to where the house was to be erected and were killed in a crash. Let me call them back and see if they can send me some info on it, but it looks similar."
Sam dialed the number and got them to send him the layout pictures and room specifics. A few minutes later, he received the email.
"Let's see it's a St. Claire II, 5, 634 sq. ft.
Room Dimensions
Great Room 19'1" x 19'
Kitchen 15'6" x 12'5"
Dining Room 16' x 13'1"
Foyer 11'6" x 10'
Laundry 11'8" x 7'6"
4 Seasons Room 19'5" x 10'1"
4 Seasons Room Bath 5'4" x 10'4"
Primary Bedroom 15'6" x 12'
Primary Bathroom 15'7" x 15'8"
Upper Bedroom #1 15'6" x 16'4"
Upper Bathroom #1 9'2" x 8'8"
Upper Bedroom #2 15'6" x 16'4"
Upper Bathroom #2 9'2" x 8'8"
Lower Rec Room 19' x 22'
Lower Office 15'5" x 14'
Lower Bedroom 13' x 13'9"
Lower Bathroom 7'9" x 10'
Bonus Living Quarters:
Kitchen 10' x 6'4"
Living Room 13' x 19'1"
Bedroom 11'4" x 10'6"
Hugh looked at the room layout and the dimensions. "This looks good! It's got everything I wanted. How can I get this thing?"
Sam grinned and picked up the phone and called Wisconsin Log Homes back.
"Larry, I've got a buyer for the St. Claire II. Hang on, I'll hand him the phone."
Hugh talked to the man for a few minutes, wrote down the banking information and said goodbye.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 14:06:31 GMT -6
"Well, I just need to do a bank transfer and as soon as the money is in the account they'll prepare everything for shipping. Said it would be here in a couple of weeks. Sam, he said he'd call you about sending a couple of guys to assist your crew in erection."
Sam nodded. "Did you want a basement with that?"
"Yeah, a full one if I could."
"Okay, I'll get the full set of plans from Larry overnight and get things set up."
"Uhm…Sam, I looked at a friend's basement in Spokane and he had it covered in twelve inches of concrete and it was set up as a disaster shelter. Can you do something like that?"
Sam looked at Cal. "Cal…?"
"Sam, plan on the reinforced roof and I send you the dimensions of the various openings he'll need to install the NBC equipment. Make it a nine foot ceiling."
Hugh looked at Cal.
"Hugh, can you afford something like that?"
Hugh grinned. "Oh, I could probably afford twenty-five like that."
"When we get back to the Ranch, I'll show you a few things. Sam, what about the hangar?"
"I'll need a couple of weeks for it to come in. What size do you need?"
"Cal looked at Hugh. "The wingspan on a SuperSTOL is thirty feet, one each and the length is twenty-one feet, ten inches."
"Let's do fifty feet wide by forty feet deep, with sliding doors."
"Got it" Sam said. "I'll get this ordered. I'll need to come out and see where you want all this built."
"Just give me a call and come out to the Ranch. We'll go from there." Cal said.
"Cal, I need to go by the bank."
"Let's go. We've got some other planning to do." "Hugh, before we go any further, I want you to know if things got bad, you and Betty are more than welcome to stay here for the duration. The is a project I started several years ago and few outside the Ranch know of it. I like for you not to talk about it with anyone else outside the members of this Ranch."
"Sure, Cal"
Cal opened the blast door and they walked down the hall to the utility room.
"Hugh, in here is just some of what you might want to consider. Here we have an NBC exchange system that also provides positive pressure to keep out gasses and pathogens. It is something you might want to consider for your basement. Down this way, is the battery bank room. Without a recharge, we can run the shelter for two weeks or more. We have smaller systems for each home on the Ranch. On top of the mesa, we have wind turbines and solar power. Beneath is, is an underground stream that can produce hydro power in case it's needed. All electricity is made here on the Ranch." "I'll bet you sell a lot of power back to the electric company!"
"No, for security reasons, we're not connected to the grid at all. I don't want them to know what we have here."
"I can understand that. When we get the full plans back, could you sit down with me and make a list of what equipment I'm going to need?"
"Sure, no problem. You want to see the rest of the place?"
"Absolutely!"
Cal got an electric cart and took Hugh on a tour of the complete complex. When they got back to Cal's office, Hugh got a call from saying FEDEX had just dropped off the house plans. Sam made them a copy of the plans from their large format printer and discussed where the blast door, blast valves, plumbing, and electrical connections would go. Once Hugh was satisfied, they left with Sam and a survey team to go to the building site. With the survey team, Hugh marked out where he wanted the log home and hangar. Hugh showed Sam where he wanted the debris from the house buried. Once the survey team had completed their work, the all left.
"You know, Hugh, There isn't much you can do except watch dirt being moved around for the next couple of weeks. This would be a good time to go get that plane, if you were serious about it."
"You're right. I'm going to call the dealer up in Nampa, Idaho, Wild West Aircraft, and set things up." Betty wanted to keep the Jeep to drive so Hugh bought a Tahoe to drive up to Nampa. After going through the training, the plane was finally delivered from South Carolina. He flew a couple of days with his instructor and was thrilled with his new plane. Dan helped him fold the wings and put it on the trailer he had bought to tow the plane back to Colorado and headed back to the Ranch. He was anxious to see how far they had come with the log home. He took it easy towing the plane and got back on the afternoon of the 2nd day of travel. Cal met he and helped take the plane off the trailer and put it into the hangar.
"Well, how was the training?" Cal asked.
"Cal, I could believe where you can land this thing!. I was landing on hillsides with a fifty degree slope and taking off again. I've had nothing but fun."
"Let's go back to the house. You and Betty are eating with us this evening."
"Have you been over to the house?" Hugh asked.
"I'm not saying anything. You'll want the thrill of seeing everything in the morning. Trust me, you'll be satisfied."
Andy had stopped at the bank before going to Frank's for lunch. As he came out, he was met by a man coming in, who stepped back and held the door.
"Jack? Jack Carter?"
"Andy! How the hell are you?"
"I'm doing great. What brings you to these parts?"
"Thought I'd take a look at the Great Salt Lake. I wanted to replenish my pocket cash here."
"You had lunch yet?"
"Nope."
"Why don't you join me down the street at Frank's BBQ?"
"Sure, I'll meet you there. I just need to get some cash."
"Okay, see you in a bit."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 14:07:39 GMT -6
Andy went into Frank's and got a booth in the back. A few minutes later Jack walked in and Andy waved him over. The waitress came over and took their order and brought their drinks back.
Andy took a sip of iced tea. "So, you are on vacation?"
"Not hardly. Getting away from a cheating wife and looking for a new life. Hey! That rhymes!
Andy grinned and shook his head. "What happened?"
Jack took a sip of coffee, and let out a long sigh.
"I got out of the Army and was working in Richmond. Met a girl I dated for a while, then she moved in with me. I was making good money and she was doing all right at the job she worked at as an Administrative Assistant. We ended up getting married and were both saving money to buy a house. One day I came out of the building after work and there was a note on my windshield. It said, "Your wife is cheating on you."
I was shocked! I hadn't noticed anything about Sandy that gave any sign. Yes, occasionally she had to work late, and she went out with the girls a couple of times a month, but I was okay with that. It was gnawing at my gut so finally, after two weeks, I hired a good P.I. It didn't take long for him to come up with the evidence of her betrayal. I confronted her and she admitted she was having an affair with a guy at work. I left and drove around for almost two hours. When I got back, she had packed some of her clothes and had left.
I was in a really dark place. I even bought a gun. Then I began reading story after story about guys who had gotten revenge. At first, my only thoughts of revenge involved violence. Then I started planning to destroy her and her boyfriend's property, but I quickly realized that both of those ideas would just blow back on me. They were stupid ideas like flattening all their tires, putting sugar in their gas tanks, and a bunch of other silly ideas. The more stories I read about revenge, the more I realized how ridiculous most of them were. I found no way to gain the revenge I wanted.
Finally, I sought counseling from a Priest. The Priest talked to me for almost two hours. He explained to me that the hurt from my wife's betrayal wouldn't go away with any kind of revenge. No matter how much I hurt my wife or her boyfriend, the pain would still be there. The Priest's advice was really pretty simple for a person with my kind of pain. He told me that only time and distance would heal my heart.
Even though I wasn't sure I believed him, I realized that being near Sandy and not being able to be with her would tear open the wound every time I saw her, reminding me of what I had lost. I wish she had valued it more. I also realized that the Priest was right about one thing, revenge wouldn't stop the hurt, so I took his advice. That meant I had to put distance between Sandy and me. I called Joel Beckley and he guided me to a job with CACI International on a project in Afghanistan. I got a lawyer, gave him a power of attorney to handle my affairs, and filed for divorce for her adultery. I then paid off and canceled our joint credit cards and transferred half the money from our checking and savings accounts to my personal account.. I still had a card in my name only from an account I had before we married. I was stashing vacation money in it as a surprise. Went to Afghanistan and worked there for four years. I got back four months ago and found a great deal on that used GXV at an estate sale and I've just been traveling around since."
Andy nodded. "What did you do in the 'Stan, Jack?"
Jack grinned. "Well the job description 'Data Security' didn't quite describe what I was actually doing, but I headed a team that intercepted voice and digital communications for target analysis. That meant phone and computer hacking. We'd turn the info over to intel analysts and they'd develop targeting plans."
"You looking to settle down anywhere?"
Jack looked down at the table. "Yeah, anywhere west of the Mississippi. I need to find something to do."
Andy grinned. "Well it just happens I manage a security company. We have a cybersecurity section that isn't staffed as well as it could be. I could use you."
Jack took a sip of coffee. "Hell, might as well. I've been on the road so long my ass is getting flat."
"Let me forewarn you. You'll be the second person in the section. The other person is a female. She'll have seniority so I hope you can take directions from a female."
"Hell, I can work with anyone."
"Okay then. Let's finish our meal and head on out there."
Cal went with Hugh out to his property the next morning. When they got there, a crew was finishing up putting on the last of the roofing. Another three men were working on the rock chimney, and two crews was chinking the logs with bulk loading guns. Hugh was pleased with what he saw. They went inside and crews were busy applying sealants and finishes inside. Hugh look out and saw the hangar had been completed. The site foreman came up to them.
"Mr. Thompson, we are a tad ahead of schedule. The granite countertops will be installed in the morning. The crews outside will be finished with the chinking this afternoon and they'll start applying the stain and sealant in the morning."
"You've done a fabulous job. I'm very pleased!"
"I might be able to start installing appliances in a couple of days, Cal."
"Looks like it. You have any marking stakes?"
"Yeah, Cal. I have a couple of bundles of them. Why?"
"Well, I could go get my transit and we could mark off your runway and taxiway. I'll have the guys come over and clear the runway and pack it down."
Hugh chuckled. You're trying to keep me from getting underfoot, aren't you."
Cal grinned "Nevertheless, it needs to be done."
Cal went back and rounded up a crew to man the grader, water truck, and roller packer to bring them over to do the runway. When they got back, Cal and Hugh marked off a 1000x50 foot runway and a taxiway to the hangar. They were just finishing staking everything out when Dennis and the guys showed up with the heavy equipment. Cal introduced Dennis to Hugh. They walked around and Dennis examined the soil in several places.
"Well, we can pack this down, but with rain and snow melt, it's just going to get muddy. If we put down some round stone and then crushed stone on top of that and packed it down, it would last for years."
Cal looked at Hugh. "He's done all my roads."
Hugh looked at Dennis. "I'll let you handle it, then. Don't worry about the costs."
Dennis nodded and pulled out his phone and walked away to talk for a few minutes. He ended the call and walked back over.
"We'll get the preliminary work done today. Tomorrow, they'll start delivering the rock and the real work begins."
Hugh grinned. "Great! Well Dennis, you're in charge. I'll just stand back and let you get to work. I'll be around the cabin so I can be of assistance, let me know."
Cal helped the guys off-load the equipment then left.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 14:08:42 GMT -6
Dale examined the horse and called the Vet.
"Dr. Thompson, this is Dale Greer. I just got in a new mare and I think she has Equine Tetanus. Her muscles are stiff and she's running a fever. I looked her over and found a puncture wound on her flank. Probably happened when they were loading her."
"I'll be right down. Have you got her isolated?"
"Yes."
Okay, I'll be down in just a bit."
Michael hung up and went over to the refrigerator and took out a couple of bottles of medicine and a tetanus vaccine. He leaned into Catherine's office and told her where he was going.
"Take Chip with you. She needs some fresh air."
Michael turned to the reception area.
"You hear that Chip? Grab your coat!"
Chip smiled and grabbed her coat and followed Michael out to the truck.
Michael took the Ranch road to the Greer Ranch, where they were met by Dale as they drove up.
"She over there in that barn." Dale said.
Dale stood back and watched as Michael examined the mare and took a blood sample. He looked at the young woman that had accompanied Michael, wondering who she was.
"Hello, I'm Dale Greer."
Chip looked at him and smiled. "Hi, I'm Chip, Chip Burke. I'm the receptionist at the clinic. I come out with the Vets and Techs when I sometimes get bored."
"Well, I hope you get bored more often when they Come out here" Dale smiled.
You could barely tell it, because of her light bronze skin, but Chip blushed.
"Well, I won't be absolutely sure until I get the blood tested, but I can go ahead and give her a tetanus shot and antibiotics now. Won't hurt anything. Chip, would you get me six syringes out of box #3 on the truck?"
When she got back Michael administered the shots.
"Dale, if you feel you can do it, I can leave you with the antibiotics and syringes here with you and you can administer the shots over the next four days or one of us could come out and do it."
Dale looked at Chip. "Uh…maybe one of you should come out to do it."
Michael smiled to himself when he saw the interaction between the two. "No problem. We'll have someone come out at 1300 each day for the next four days."
Dale walked Michael and Chip back out to their truck and watched them as they drove out of sight.
"Chip, you mind coming back out tomorrow and administering the shots?"
Startled, Chip looked at Michael. "I don't know how to give shots!"
"Oh, it's simple. We can broaden your horizons. I have blocks of gel used for practice. I can teach you how to do it in a few minutes, unless you object to going back out there."
"Uhm, no, I could do it, if you teach me."
When they got back to the clinic, Chip went to her desk.
Michael turned and said, "Give me ten minutes and then meet me in Exam Room #1 and I'll teach you how to give a shot."
Chip nodded.
Michael, smiling walked into Cathleen's office and walked behind her desk where she was sitting, working on the computer. He bent down and whispered in her ear "Chip has the hots for Dale Greer" and kissed her under her right ear.
"Michael!" VERY unprofessional!" Cathleen said, grinning. What do you mean "has the hots?"
"She and Dale were looking at each other like two love struck teenagers."
"Kind of a big age difference, isn't there?"
"Oh come on, Cat! My grandfather was fifteen years older than my grandmother."
Cathleen shrugged. "Are you coming over for dinner tonight?"
"Sure, 6:00 okay? Cal was making chipped dried beef gravy for breakfast while Siobhan was getting the kids up and dressed for school. When they all came into the kitchen, Cal was pulling biscuits out of the oven. Siobhan got cereal out for those who wanted that.
"Betty and I are going shopping today. I'll be back before the kids get home from school. Mary wants to keep Brigid."
"Okay, this for her house?"
"Yeah. It's just a few things. She brought everything from her home in Breckenridge."
"Well, I'll follow you over. I was heading over there to see how Dennis was doing on the road and landing strip." Cal said.
When Cal got to Hugh's place he pulled up next to the hangar and watched Dennis packing down the apron in front of the hangar. He drove on over to the airstrip, got out, and walked down the strip. This was going to be a good landing surface. Dennis drove the truck through the back gate of the Vet Clinic and went inside.
Chip came around the counter and asked, "May I help you?"
Dale took one look at this woman and his heart and mind just melted. Quickly taking off his hat, he said, "Uh…Cal said you have an issue with the parking area."
Chip smiled. "Yes, can I show you?"
When this woman smiled, she smiled with her lips and her eyes.
"Uh…sure, lead on."
Chip grabbed her coat and they went outside.
"This area over here is a little thin on gravel and could use more."
"Not a problem. I'll have this fixed in no time."
"Well thank you…"
"Uh…oh! Dennis, I'm Dennis Daley, uh…Chip"
Looking down at the name on her shirt.
"I'm pleased to meet you Dennis. I've seen you at the cook outs and dinners, but never got a chance to talk to you."
Looking at his watch Dennis said. "Look, it's almost lunch time. Would you allow me to buy you lunch?"
Chip smiled. "I'd love to, but both Vets and Techs are out and I have to hold down the fort."
"Well, what about I run down to Casey's and grab a couple of bison burgers with fries and we can eat here?"
"Yes, I would enjoy that."
"I'll be right back."
Chip watched him leave and smiled to herself.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 14:09:44 GMT -6
After Hugh and Cal inspected the runway, they rode back to the hangar in the ToolCat Hugh had Ryan convert to electric for him.
"Hugh, why don't I take you back to the Ranch and you can get your plane and fly it back here?"
"I appreciate it, but first, I want to attach the windsock to the pole I set in concrete."
Hugh got the windsock and a step ladder out of the hangar and Cal went back out to the runway with Hugh.
After attaching the windsock, Hugh stepped back.
"Well, I guess that makes it official! Thompson International Airport is open for business!"
Cal chuckled. "I wouldn't count on making any money on landing fees if I were you."
Hugh grinned. "I expect not."
"So, what's your next project?" Cal asked.
"I'm going to frame up that hay barn and put log siding on it. If it looks good enough, I'll do the other outbuildings and replace the roofs with the metal shake roof like the house."
"That will look nice. You ready to go?"
"Yeah, let me put this stuff away."
Andy led Jack into the Facility and walked him through a couple of secure doors and knocked on a door and opened it. Jeannie saw it was Andy but when another man walked in behind him, she pressed a button and all her monitor screens went blank.
"Jeannie, this is Jack Carter. He will be working for you here."
"Oh no you don't! I'm not in to that leadership stuff. You want a leader? Then make him head of the section. I'm just a keyboard marauder."
Andy grinned, looked at Jack, and shrugged his shoulders.
"Well, you two sit down and get to know one another and trade ideas. Decide what computer equipment you need and make a list. Jack, see Shelly up front and she'll square you away with access cards and codes."
Andy left and closed the door. Jeannie put her elbow on the desk and propped her head with her right hand.
"So, tell me your story so I can figure out our working relationship."
Jack told her about his work experiences and the security clearances he had held. Jeannie asked questions that revealed his failed marriage. She finally had no other questions. She reached over and turned her monitors on and explained what she was working on. She didn't reveal her extra-curricular activities.
"Okay Boss, I think we should get along well." Jeannie said, smiling.
"Okay, Jeannie. Do you have a list of the projects we should be working on now? I'm itching to get to work." Cal finished putting the emergency backpacks together and took them up to the hangar. He had the mechanics install strapping points in the back of the SuperSTOL aircraft to secure the backpacks. Each contained:
" 32 servings of breakfasts, entrees, and drinks " Feeds and hydrates 1 person for 5 full days " Portable stove, including fuel tablets " Flare gun w/flares " 2 butane lighters " Waterproof matches " Lightning Strike Fire Starter " Stainless steel cup " Squeeze flashlight " 42-piece first-aid and survival kit " Emergency poncho " 4 Mylar blanket " Playing cards " Swiss Army Knife " Kukri " 2 VS-17 Panels " 6 liters water " 1 Aqua Quest Guide Tarp " Aquamira Water Treatment Drops
Each would handle one person for 5 days. He didn't foresee that period of time going by if someone were to have to put down, but better safe than sorry. He had one extra he was going to give Hugh. He called Hugh to see if he was going to be at home.
"Cal, I'm on the way to the clinic. Karma has a nasty cut on her pad and I wanted them to check it out."
"Okay, I'll just meet you there."
Hugh stopped in front of the clinic and went around the truck and picked Karma up in his arms. Chip had seen him on the monitor and rushed over to open the door for him.
"What's the problem Mr. Thompson?"
"Karma has a bad cut on her right front pad."
Cathleen and Amanda came out, followed by Sabrina. Cathleen looked at the dog's paw and was asking Hugh questions. Amanda bowed her head just slightly, giving Hugh a smoldering look.
Cathleen said, "Let's take her into exam room #1. Amanda, can you pull out a 2.0 suture kit and disinfectant?"
Sabrina had noticed the look Amanda had given Hugh. "You like him, don't you?"
"Sure I like him. He's a nice man." "No, I mean you REALLY like him!" "Hush! He'll hear you!"
Sabrina chuckled and pulled some other things she knew they'd need out of the cabinet. Amanda did like the looks of his sandy brown hair and the bright blue eyes. She spent all the time she could looking at him during Cathleen's procedure. After giving Karma a shot of antibiotics, Amanda went into the drug cabinet and got enough pills and pill treats to fill out the treatment cycle.
Amanda walked up to Hugh. "Make sure you give her these pills twice a day until they are gone. Just slide the pills into the pill treat and give them to her. She won't realize she's taking medicine."
Hugh looked at Amanda. "Thank you. Do I need to bring her back…you know, to get the stitches out?"
"Oh no! The stitches will dissolve."
"But you could come back to visit Amanda!" Sabrina said, grinning."
Amanda blushed. "Here is a roll of tape and some bandage socks to help keep the bandage clean. If you run out, stop by and I can give you some more."
Hugh grinned. "You don't make house calls?"
Amanda blushed again.
"Only for dinner." Cathleen laughed.
"That's too bad. I'm a mediocre cook at best. But I could take you to lunch at Casey's."
Cathleen looked at her watch. "It is about lunch time. Go on Amanda, if you want to."
Amanda looked up at Hugh. "You sure?"
"Surer than I could ever be about anything."
Amanda grinned. "Okay, let me get my jacket."
"Can I leave Karma here until we get back?"
"Sure." Cathleen said. "She'll be fine."
Chip stood up. "Hugh, watch your Ps and Qs or I'll scalp you!"
Hugh turned and grinned at Chip, who grinned back. Amanda came back, pulling on her jacket and Hugh escorted her out of the building.
"They make a cute couple." Cathleen said.
"She's got it bad for him." Sabrina giggled.
As Hugh and Amanda were leaving the clinic, Cal drove up.
"Hugh, I was making up emergency survival kits up for the SuperSTOLs and made one for you" handing Hugh the pack."
"Hey, thanks Cal. I appreciate it. We're heading to lunch. Care to join us?"
Cal looked at the two. "Nah, you and Amanda go ahead."
Cal walked on in into the clinic. Cathleen, Sabrina, and Chip were still in the reception area.
"What's going on there?" Cal said. Pointing his thumb back over his shoulder.
Chip grinned. "It's called a mating dance."
"Mating dance, hunh?"
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 14:10:47 GMT -6
Dale walked into the school with his kid's lunch boxes. Steph saw him come in and walked over.
"Hi Dale, how can I help you?"
"Wynter and Finn ran out this morning and forgot their lunches."
"Oh, no problem. We can give them to Kathy. She has lunch duty today."
"Uh…what about you? Do you eat lunch?"
Stephanie laughed. "Of course!"
"Well, I'm going down to Casey's for a bite to eat. Would you like to accompany me?"
"Sure, let me give the lunches to Kathy and I'll be right with you."
Dale drove them down to Casey's and got a table.
"I'm going to try the elk burger today." Dale said after studying the menu.
Steph put down her menu. "That sounds good. I'll have that also."
The waitress took their orders and left to get their drinks.
Dale looked at Steph, took a deep breath and slowly let it out.
"Uh…the kids and I are going to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park Saturday. I was wondering if you'd like to join us."
"Of course! I'd love to Dale."
"Dale, Wynter and Finn are to adorable and intelligent kids. I look forward to spend some fun time outside the classroom with them. Maybe sometime just you and I could go out….just ourselves"
Dale's face lit up. "I've been wanting to ask you out, but I'm years out of practice for that, so bear with me."
Steph smiled. "Well, I am too, so maybe we can practice together."
The waitress brought their food to the table. They didn't say much as they ate, and took their time eating; almost as if they didn't want the meal to end.
Dale finally put his fork down and wiped his mouth with his napkin.
"If we leave around 7:00 we can have breakfast there."
"I'll be ready. I'll fix a couple of travel cups of coffee. You take it black?" Steph asked.
"Yep. I'll give the kids some boxed juice and a Pop Tart to hold them over until we get there."
Dale paid the bill and left a tip. When they got back to the school, Steph leaned over and kissed Dale on the cheek.
"Thank you for lunch. I look forward to Saturday."
Dale grinned. "My pleasure."
Steph walked into the school and saw Kathy leaning against her desk, grinning.
"Must have been a pretty good lunch to deserve a kiss."
"Well, he was very nice. He's invited me to go with him and his kids to Glenwood Springs Saturday."
"Oh, a date!"
"No! I don't know…with the kids along, would that be considered a date?"
"I don't know. Maybe he's trying you out to fill the position of Stepmom?"
Steph gazed out of the window, not answering Kathy.
Dawn laid the map and some papers down on Cal's desk.
"There will be a total of six fields. I added the other fields after you mentioned wanting to produce COB for the horses. One of the fields will remain fallow, with cover crops each year. That gives us a field each for oats, barley, corn, wheat, and hemp for Jon's production."
Cal looked over the map and nodded. "I'll have a farm road extended out to that area."
Dawn continued, "Here is a list of the equipment we'll need to plow, plant, cultivate and harvest."
Cal looked over the list. "Prioritize the list and get back to me. We'll have to build another building to house the equipment. Also, we'll need to find workers."
Dawn nodded. "Yeah, and possibly train them. I'll get back with you on the list. We need to get moving if there's going to be a harvest this year."
Cal got Brigid and Siobhan in the Command Car and took them down to Casey's for lunch. Miguel saw them pull up into the parking lot and went over to the restaurant after they had gone in. When he entered, went directly over to the Stammtisch.
"Cal, when you have some time, I'd like to talk to you."
"Sure Miguel. I'll stop by after lunch."
"Thanks Cal."
After lunch Cal dropped Siobhan and Brigid off at the house and drove down to the auto shop.
"How's the car driving, Cal?"
Cal chuckled. "It's doing great. What's up?"
Miguel rubbed his chin. "Well, my family is wanting to leave California. The political climate, taxes, and regulations are driving them crazy. I'm wondering if you would let me put a couple of trailers in the back of the shop for them to live in. I'm sure they can get good jobs around here or Fruita with the farmers. That's what they do now."
Cal stared at him for a minute.
"No and no."
Miguel's face grew dark.
"Miguel, you don't know what you have done for me. I was just discussing with my Farm Manager about putting some fields to grow grains and such. I was going to have to hire some hands to handle that. With your family coming here, I won't. As for the trailers, I have twenty acres next to you I can build some housing. No trailers needed. I just need to know how many houses we'll need and when. I plan to use the three bedroom designs."
Miguel's face brightened. "I'll talk to them tonight. I'll have the answers for you tomorrow."
Cal shook Miguel's hand. "Bear in mind, it will take up to a month to get the housing ready, so have them set their plans accordingly."
Thank you Cal, you won't regret it. All my family are hard workers."
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 14:11:59 GMT -6
Dale, Stephanie, and the kids had a great time at the park. When they returned to Dale's house, the kids went to do chores and Dale and Steph sat on the porch. "You have called me Stephanie and not Steph all day long. Why?" Dale gazed off in the distance. "I guess because I think it is a beautiful name." Steph's lips slowly formed a smile. "I enjoyed today." Dale looked at her. "I hope to spend more time with you." "I would enjoy that immensely. Are you going to the community dinner tomorrow?" "Yes, yes if you are going to be there." "I'll save us a table." After church the next day, Dale and the kids drove Stephanie to her cabin to pick up the fried chicken and Cole Slaw she had made and then went to the Community Center. Dale carried the food in and Stephanie guided Wynter and Finn to a table. Dale, after dropping the food off at the food table, joined them. Wynter giggled and looked at Stephanie. "We loved what we did yesterday and Daddy seems so much happier. Can we do things together more often?" Stephanie smiled and gave Dale a sultry look. "Maybe your father can think of some things we can do?" Dale blushed. "Uh…why don't you kids get your drinks." Wynter took Finn's hand and they scurried over to the drink table. Dale took Stephanie's hand. "Stephanie, I fell in love with you the first time I saw you. I was conflicted because I thought I could only give my heart to just one woman, but it seems I have another heart that's just for you. I'm sorry if it is too soon or overwhelming for you, but that's the way it is. I'll back off if it's too much or too soon. Just tell me and I'll tone it down." Stephanie's eyes misted. "Dale. I've felt the same way. I thought you'd never say anything or ask me out. I thought it was perfect you asked me first to go out with your family. Don't you dare stop doing what you are doing or stop loving me." Wynter and Finn came back over, carefully carrying their cups. After they had place their cups, Finn got back into his chair, but Wynter went back around the table and embraced Stephanie. "I'm so glad you're sitting with us. It feels like we're a real family." Stephanie hugged Wynter and kissed the top of her head. She looked at Dale and gave him a smile. "I know." Stephanie said. "I feel like we are family too." The Reverend Lambry walked over to the grill where Cal was cooking hamburgers, hotdogs, and chicken. "So Cal, what's with the new building near Casey's?" "Miguel's bringing out the rest of his family from California. They should be here by the end of the month. Looks like the church will be filling up." "Well, that's good. It's only when the flock diminishes that I get concerned." "Rev, you want to help me carry this stuff in? We can place the trays on the cart." "Reverend Lambry helped Cal load the trays on the cart and they wheeled them. Once the final trays of food were on the table, Reverend Lambry gave the blessing and people started lining up to fill their plates. Cal and Siobhan got the kids settled and sat and sipped their tea, watching everyone enjoy themselves. "I think you need to update your building plans with some more housing." Siobhan smiled. "Cal looked at her. "What?" "Dennis and Chip. Stephanie and Dale, Andrea and Mat, would be taken care of and so will Amanda and Hugh." "How do you see all this?" "You just wait. Women know these things." Hugh and Amanda got their plates and found seats at a table. "Amanda, would you consider going out to dinner with me Friday night?" Amanda placed her fork on her plate. "Yes, yes Hugh, I would love to." Hugh blushed. There's something that might be a deal breaker. We're flying to Denver and I was planning to drink a little champagne and I won't fly after I've been drinking. That means we'd have to stay overnight." "Hugh, I…." "No, don't get me wrong, I'd get separate rooms and…" "…I'd love to. I'll pack a bag." Hugh grinned and let out a low sigh. Hugh picked up Amanda Friday afternoon. He borrowed Mat's TBM and they flew into Centennial Airport, south of Denver. Hugh had a rental awaiting and they drove to the hotel. Amanda became obviously uneasy when she saw they were pulling into the parking lot of the Four Seasons Hotel. "This our hotel?" she asked nervously. "Yes, don't worry, I have you a separate room." Hugh checked them in and escorted Amanda to her room, to prepare for dinner. "Where are you staying?"
"I'll be next door. Our reservations are for 7:00." Hugh knocked on Amanda's door a few minutes before 7:00. Once inside the hotel elevator, Hugh pushed the button for the top floor, and they soon emerged into the Four Season's rooftop restaurant. When they reached the maître d's station and Hugh gave his name, he checked his reservation list. "Ah, there you are -- right on time," he said. With that he led Hugh and Amanda to a table near the large windows where we could look out over the lights of the city. "Why did you pick this place," Amanda asked suspiciously. "No special reason," Hugh told her untruthfully, "I just thought it would make a pretty setting for a pretty woman." She smiled tensely at my compliment. "But how did you manage to get a table for us? I've heard it takes months to get a reservation." "Oh, that was no problem," Hugh said carelessly. "I just called Monday for a reservation." "I've taken the liberty of ordering for you," he continued. "I hope you don't mind." She told him she was grateful for his thoughtfulness and began to relax. She was even more gratified when the waiter brought out an ice bucket holding a bottle of champagne. After they drank several toasts that he made to her, she got really relaxed. And when the server brought out oysters on the half shell for the next course, she was delighted. He not a big fan of oysters, but she loved them. For the main course, the waiter brought out a 8 oz Filet Mignons with salads. Amanda was suitably impressed. "I would have guessed you'd order something heavy, like a big steak," she said with a smile. "This is perfect." "I thought it would be the right size," Hugh told her. "Besides, we don't want to get too full." She looked at him inquiringly, but he said nothing more.
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Post by ncsfsgm on Aug 9, 2021 14:13:49 GMT -6
For dessert the waiter brought out two bowls of fresh raspberries with a dollop of whipped cream on top, accompanied by liqueur glasses filled with Grand Marnier. It was the perfect ending, and Amanda loved it all. It was the best dining experience of Amanda's life. The fanciest place at which she had ever dined was a high-end chain restaurant. Needless to say, she was overwhelmed. They had a wonderful time that night. After paying the bill, Hugh escorted Amanda back to her room. Amanda softly kissed Hugh on the lips and said good night. She closed the door and kicked off her shoes. Sitting on her bed, she sighed, then began taking off her clothes to take a shower. After her shower, she wrapped in a hotel robe and went over to the adjoining room door and knocked. Hugh opened the door and Amanda looked at him, then walked past into his room. Hugh closed the door softly.
"Cal, I'd like you to meet my family. This is my father Sylvio, my mother Margarita, my sister Angelina, and my other sister Sofia. Here, we have my Uncle Pedro, my aunt, Merced, my cousins, Diego, Mateo, and Hernando. "Con mucho gusto. Welcome. Is everything okay? Cal asked. "Oh, Señor Cal, they are beautiful homes!" Margarita cried. "Well, I'll leave you to get settled in. We brought the staples down already, but Siobhan and Dawn will bring down some meat and fresh fruits and vegetables. Just give her a call. Again welcome. Sylvio, Pedro, I'd like to meet with both families tomorrow at the Ranch." "Si Patrón." "Cal, can you come down to the Facility?" "Yeah, I've just finished meeting with the Becerras. Give me ten minutes. Cal turned the Becerras over to Dawn, who was going to show them the equipment and where the fields would be located. He drove down to the facility and immediately saw the Class A motorhome. When Cal walked into Andy's office a man got up out of the chair in front of Andy's desk. "Shay Cafrey! You are a sight for sore eyes!" Shay smiled. "Hello Cal. It's good to see you." They all sat down and started to reminiscence. "How's Carmella doing?" Cal asked. Shay bowed his head and took a breath. "Carmella was diagnosed with cancer late last year, but it was too late. We had bought this Class A to see the States before she died. We made it to Jacksonville and she passed away in her sleep. I've been on the road ever since, searching for something I'll probably never find again." "God, Shay, I'm so sorry. Let's go grab some lunch and we can talk some more. Andy, would you call Siobhan and tell her where I'll be?" Cal took Shay over to Casey's and sat at the Stammtisch. They got their drinks and Cal told them to bring a couple of elk burgers with sides. "So, Shay, what are your plans for the future?" "I don't know Cal. When we found out Carmella's condition was terminal, she wanted me to make sure I got out of Georgia. We settled everything, sold our farm, and bought the rig and hit the road. We spent her last week's riding around, stopping when she saw something interesting and just loved each other to the end." Cal slowly shook his head. "What kind of work were you doing before Camella got sick?" "I was kicking around in my uncle's construction company. I got good with a couple of pieces of equipment so I went to a heavy equipment operator's course. I finished that and was doing well…until Camella.." "I want you to work for me. I've got heavy equipment and only one guy that has any real experience. We use it frequently and a few ranchers around have seen what we have done and want similar projects. Even though you won't be working all that much, I'll give you a flat salary that will even things out." Shay leaned back in his chair and sighed. Staring at his plate for a minute, he look back up at Cal. "I'll take it. I've got nothing to go back to, so I might as well take a chance at a fresh start here." Cal grinned. "You won't regret it. You'll see a few people you already know around here. By the way, how did you find us?" "I saw Andy's ad a few months ago on the SFA website. I kept the contact info, thinking I might look him up if I was near." "Okay, I can give you a room or I have an RV pad with all the hook-ups." "I'll take the pad. It is a sweet RV." "Good. Let's go get you outfitted with passcodes and get you over to the pad. You're having dinner with us." Siobhan wrapped her arms around Cal's neck. "What wayward lamb did you draw into the flock this time?" "A friend. He's coming to dinner." Siobhan and Becky made a dinner of porkchops, mashed potatoes, garden peas, and fresh yeast nuts. At 6:00 Shay knocked on the door and Billy let him in. "Come on in, Shay. Shay, this is my wife Siobhan, and two of my kids, Billy, and Becky. We've already fed the rest so there wouldn't be too much distraction." They all sat down and Cal said grace. The platters and bowls were passed and everyone served themselves. "You said this was a ranch but it looks more like a small village." Shay commented. Cal smiled. "Well, one thing leads to another. Siobhan keeps me on my toes." "Cal Coleman! Shay, it's all I can do to keep him from running off the top of the mesa, looking for new projects to start." Shay grinned. "Well, from what I've seen so far, it's a pretty impressive place." "I'll take you on a tour tomorrow and show you where you will fit in."
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