The New Old Homestead

[papaof2]

I'm still dealing with a somewhat capricious muse, so don't expect frequent long postings - she hasn't provided this much inspiration in quite a while. However, I am filling in some missing days and maybe you'll get a chapter a week.

Chapter 1 - Tuesday, 8 June


"You're the Dr. Jackson who called about the property on County 217?"

"That's correct, Ms. Watkins. The listing has 153 acres, well, septic, three bedrooms, two baths, basement plus storm shelter, fully furnished, propane heat and generator, root cellar, barn, workshop and three other outbuildings, tractor with assorted attachments, small year-round creek and about 500 yards from commercial power."

"That was the Thompsons' place. They both died of the flu last year and their son Bobby don't want to live out here. Their daughter, Sally Jenkins, will be your neighbor as she has about 30 acres on the west side of the property. She and her brother will split the proceeds of the sale. There's bad blood between them as old man Thompson would have left the entire place to Sally if he'd known that Bobby would try to sell the home place a month later without telling her. Her father-in-law being the Sheriff took care of that when he threatened Bobby with charges of fraud and grand theft. The real estate person and the out-of-state buyer both backed away from the deal immediately."

"Maybe I don't want to go look at it after all. I don't want to be on the receiving end of an angry sibling's ranting."

"You won't be. Sally asked if anyone had shown any interest and I had to be honest that there was just the one offer after six months on the market and it wasn't what they were asking. She asked me who and I gave her your name and that you were from Fort Worth. She called back a couple of days later and said she thought you'd be a good fit for the area."

"Good fit?"

"She didn't explain but Sally does have some different ideas on raising kids and which people should be involved in their education."

"What about her brother?"

"He don't seem like part of the family. Bobby moved to the far end of the state and left Sally raising her kids alone out there. Her husband Jimmy got drunk at the County Line Tavern two years ago and the wreck coming home from there killed him. Maybe she's looking for another husband and thinks an doctor with cash money to buy the place might be a good choice?"

"I've been through one marriage that didn't end well and after more than 20 years alone I've not found anyone who interests me. Many have tried but I'm still single. My preferences for solitude and quiet don't work for most other people."

"Sally likes long walks in the woods."

"That is a positive and I do want to look at the place."

"We can take my Jeep. We may need four wheel drive, especially if the clouds drop the rain they've been threatening most of the day."

"Better if we take my truck. It's reliable four wheel drive and I hate the potentially deadly Crapsler Corporation junk that now carries the Jeep label because you can't trust it to cruise or park."

"Then here's the map. If you have a GPS that can accept latitude and longitude, it's on the map. Most of the addresses that far out aren't accurate on any map."

"That won't be a problem."

---

"Kind of a long first step."

"Let me unlock the truck and then you step back when you open the door."

"You use a key?"

"The key never needs a battery."

"I guess not."

Click!

"Open your door."

"Nice set of steps!"

"It was custom built by a friend who does very creative restorations of old trucks."

"Old? Looks factory new to me."

"Good body work and paint can make even an old International pickup look good."

"Leather seats?"

"Heated and cooled and they recline. I sometimes spend many hours in my vehicle and I want it as comfortable as possible."

---

"My GPS don't always know where to turn out here. How does yours?"

"It's a more capable and much more expensive unit than yours. The antenna is on the roof and the electronics are in this box."

"That's huge!"

"Only when compared to a Garmin or TomTom. It's actually very compact for its capabilities."

"If you say so. Place is on the right. I have the key for the chain across the drive."

"Then I'll stop here and we can move the chain."

"You sure you're from Fort Worth? Most of them never get out of the car until we're at the house."

"I'm living there now. I didn't grow up there."

"Far enough away from the city that folks helped one another?"

"You could say that. Put the chain back up while we're inside?"

"No. Sally said to leave it down so she'll know someone is looking at the place. If she can break loose, she'll be over to meet you. Probably with a couple of her kids."

"A couple out of how many?"

"Four or five, I don't remember exactly. I don't see Sally often as she almost never comes to town now, what with one of the kids being as sick as she is."

"Anything contagious?"

"No, some kind of brain tumor that's pressing on her pituary gland."

"Pituitary gland?"

"That's the name! I never can remember it."

"That's one of the reasons she wants to sell the property?"

"This place is worth a lot more than where she is. They have electric from some kind of generator that the creek runs but the house is small and that piece of land is more suited for raising a few goats than any crop farming."

"The metal roofs here look to be in fair to good condition. Will she be coming by vehicle or on foot?"

"Probably a wagon pulled by one of the goats so the little one can travel lying down. Here's the door key."

"Insulated steel door with working storm shutters for it and the windows. Looks like the walls are 2x8 equivalent studding. Hardwood floors. Wood burning stove in here for heat. Kitchen through that door?"

"Yes. They have a propane cookstove and an ancient wood cookstove."

"The wood cookstove is ancient but it's also well cared for. It and the stove in the other room share a chimney. Need to check whether that's separate flues or a common flue. I learned to cook on a wood cookstove. I might still remember how."


Tinkle! Tinkle!

"That bell is probably on the goat pulling the wagon."


"You here, Susie?"

"Yes, Sally. Sally Jenkins, this is Dr. Mikhail Jackson."

"Pleased to meet you, ma'am."

"My pleasure, Dr. Jackson."

"Momma?"

"Excuse me a moment. Yes, Alice?"

"Who's that? He sounds nice."

"That's Dr. Jackson. If he likes the place, he might buy Grandma and Grandpa's house and live here."

"Will he hold me or play with me?"

"We'll have to ask him."


"Ask me what?"

"Marie, Alice. This is Dr. Jackson."

"Hello, Marie. Hello, Alice."

"They might say 'Hi' when they stop giggling. They really miss their Daddy and their Uncle Bobby can't stand to be around kids. If you buy the place, could I impose on you to eat with us once a week so they get to have a man in their lives again? No strings, just them having the opportunity to be around a man who makes them laugh."

"On that basis, I'll accept the offer of a meal."

"Goody!"

"Marie is happy that you'll be visiting. Alice seems to still have the gigg…"

"But Momma, he said my name and shook my hand like I was a real person, not just some trailer trash like Uncle Bobby said."

"I don't see any wheels and your tongue's too small to fit a hitch. You don't look like a trailer to me."

"Now you've gotten both of them in giggles again. That's good. Alice doesn't find much in her days to giggle about."

"She has the tumor?"

"Yes. it's benign but pressing on her pituitary gland and you can see that it's affecting her growth. That's why I'm willing to sell the family place. She's more important than tradition. What you offered will cover the surgery and some of the rehab."

"Ms. Watkins, I'll take it."

"Don't you want to see the rest of the property?"

"Not today with the speed those clouds are moving. What I've seen tells me the builders and maintainers did excellent work. Can we take care of the paperwork today?"

"As soon as we're back at my office. I will need signatures from Sally and Bobby."

"Dr. Jackson, I'll sign anything now. Bobby will be here the next day as soon as he knows there's money."

"Can either of you call him?"

"Susie, do you have Bobby's number? My cell phone is down to the 20 minutes I keep for emergencies."

"I have it and I'll call when we're back at the office. I know how spotty cell coverage is out here."

"Mrs. Jenkins, I'd rather you signed things at the office with your brother as witness instead of signing something with blanks in it. When we have a time for him to get here, I'll drive out and pick you up. No time like the present to start being neighborly."

"I accept neighbor, but you'll have to call me Sally."

"Sally, I'm Jack. That's Mister Jack to the two giggleboxes."

"They're giggling again. I think we'll enjoy having a neighbor who makes the kids happy."

"We have two kids here. Ms. Watkins said you had more?"

"Four, all girls. Marie is seven. Alice and her twin Lisa are five. Sarah is nine and is home with Lisa."

"Then I look forward to meeting Alice's other half and their big sister tomorrow."

"Mister Jack?"

"Yes, Marie?"

"Alice needs a hug."

"Just Alice?"

"Me too!"

"Alice, what's the best way for me to pick you up?"

"Your arms here and here, Mister Jack."

"Thank you, Marie."

"You give good hugs, Mister Jack! Kiss me bye?"

"On your nose."

"OK."


"Marie?"

"Just like you did Alice!"


"Thank you, Jack. They love having a man give them his time even if it's only for a few minutes. Susie, text me the time so I can have the tribe ready to go when Jack gets here tomorrow. Jack, how will you get to my house?"

"Ms. Watkins said you lived on the west side so this mark on the map should be the right place."

"Just look for the pink and green mailbox. The girls painted it. The twins wanted pink; the other two wanted green to match the house. I introduced them to the word 'compromise'."

"I might have guessed that the girls chose the colors. I like the way you expand their vocabulary. Here's my phone number if you need to contact me. Text is fine so you don't use your emergency minutes."

---

"Ms. Watkins, I suggest you put your seat belt on. The rain is here and the movement of the trees in the distance indicates some high winds. The ruts in the road tell me this dirt rapidly becomes mire so time to be in four wheel drive."

"You're right but how do you know?"

"I've driven in remote areas all over the world and roads that look like this when dry often turn to mire when wet. I should also adjust the tire pressure to match the road."

"Tire pressure? You're gonna be out in the rain and mud?"

"No, I can adjust the pressure of each tire individually from this control in the console. That feels better."

"You didn't look at the gauge."

"No, I didn't. I adjusted the pressure until the wheels didn't lose traction on gentle acceleration. By feel, not by the numbers. I'll flip the switch back to 'Normal' when we get to dry or hard-paved road."

"This truck sure has lots of bells and whistles."

"Things I've found to be useful in many places under many different conditions. As I said, I sometimes spend many hours in my vehicle."

"You do seem to have all the comforts of home."

"This has been 'home' more than once. We're at your office and the rain has slowed a little. There's an umbrella in the door pocket."

"How do I get it back to you?"

"You call or text about when Bobby will be here tomorrow and I'll drive out to pick up Sally and her kids. I'll get the umbrella when I'm here again."

"I'm so befuzzled by the things in your truck I almost forgot about tomorrow and sales are my business! I'll text you. I doubt that Bobby will be here before noon."

"Then there's no great rush to go out to Sally's and hurry back in the morning. Any local eatery you'd recommend?"

"Just two. Mabel's Diner for breakfast or lunch. The BBQ Shack for lunch or supper. There's Joe's Hamburger Heaven but it seems only those under 30 eat there. They're all along the four lane part of the highway that you came in on. The Diner and the Shack on this end of town; Jack's at the other end."

"Thanks again and I'll see you tomorrow."

---

I'm a bit surprised at a five and a seven year old being comfortable around a total stranger when they are only in panties but Ms. Watkins did say that Sally had a different outlook on raising kids. Perhaps that difference includes nudity and the girls have experienced that lifestyle long enough to be comfortable with their bodies? In that case, I can see them only wearing the minimum that is enforced on them when away from home. My family was very casual about nudity; partly from our parents' attitudes and partly from being exposed to other cultures through my Dad's work that took us around the world. Nudists are an interesting bit of local culture that I didn't find in any of my research on this county. What else might I have missed?

---

I've been watching the signal level on my cell phone today and coverage is spotty regardless of which SIM card I use. It seems none of the carriers provide much out here. I should check the sat phone. Not as good a signal as some places but it is adequate. However, the cell phone is much cheaper to use. I'll have a cell booster and its associated antennas when the things in storage are delivered. That delivery will also have a solar power setup, two wind generators, my communications package, some LTS foods, the gun safe and other useful things. There's been no sun today but enough nearly continuous wind to spin two 750 watt generators. Solar and wind power installation are near the top of my to-do list, after getting some fresh food. I saw a sign for "Farmers' Market" near the real estate office. I'll check the days and times but I'd expect early on Saturday and maybe on Sunday. Should have asked Ms. Watkins.

Time to take paper and pencil with me and try the BBQ Shack for tonight's meal. Then back to the first town big enough to have lodging where I have a reservation at the closest chain - a Motel 6.

---

The baby back ribs are excellent! Almost burn-your-mouth hot from the fire (there's a warning sign on the table), lightly seasoned with some things you rarely find used on ribs and melt-in-your-mouth tender. I told the server they were the best I've had in years.

Back to my notes while he brings the coffee and pecan pie. I did check that UPS and FedEx deliver out here but I think most things will be best purchased by the truckload and have just one delivery fee instead of getting 'extended distance' fees added to each item delivered unless the seller ships via USPS but that has lower size and weight limits. I didn't check the barn but the listing says there's a tractor with multiple attachments including a front loader. I can get pallet forks that mount on the bucket and effectively have a fork lift that can unload the back of a semi. I should check for a pallet jack. If there's not one here, there's a Northern Tool across the highway from the Motel 6 and a Tractor Supply at the next traffic light beyond the motel. I can remove the back-most row of pallets from a semi trailer then load the pallet jack into the trailer and use it to move the other pallets to the door. I may need to weld some channel on the pallet jack to make a secure lift possible. If there's not a welder in the barn or other building, that's another Tractor Supply or Northern Tool purchase. Good that I brought $40,000 in cash which is stashed in little places all over the truck.


"Dr. Jackson?"

"Yes, Sheriff Jenkins?"

"May I sit down?"

"Certainly. Would you join me in pie and coffee?"

"Did Sally tell you about my weaknesses?"

"No, she didn't mention you."

"She's my daughter-in-law so I didn't know if she mentioned anything. You asked Susie Watson about building codes. The County recommends the NEC standards from 2000 or later for electrical work and the NSF standards from 2005 or later for plumbing. There are no codes with the power of law. The companies that install propane tanks have their minimum standards that the gas plumbing must meet or they won't install a tank. Alternate energy is up to you but again we recommend the NEC standards. Robert Thompson was a stickler for electrical safety and just as serious about his plumbing as were his father and grandfather. The place you're looking at is one of the better built houses in the County."

"That's good to know, but an official visit from the Sheriff to tell me about it seems odd."

"I was by Sally's today and Alice is the happiest I've seen her in two years so I want to ensure that the new man in the girls' lives stays alive and well. Sarah and Marie had a very difficult time with their father's death and I don't want Marie and Alice - plus Sarah and Lisa when they meet you - to lose someone else they've become attached to."

"Attached? In less than an hour?"

"The girls need someone who accepts them as they are. You did - and even had them laughing - but not everyone does. I'll let Sally give you the details later. For now, welcome to Thompson County and the unincorporated town of Doug's Creek. If you need anything official, Pete Davis is the Deputy who patrols this area. Here's his cell number."

"Thank you. Several times over."

"Just keep my grandkids happy."

"I'll do my best."


Nothing like getting on the good side of local law enforcement on the first day in a new place. I think this could be my permanent home.

[pbbrown0]

Great to see your Muse still kicking, papaof2. I really like the way this one is starting out. (That shouldn't be a surprise to anyone.)

[pbbrown0]

By the way, Thank you for sharing yet again with your friends here.

[9idrr]

Dammit, papaof2, you've got me hooked again already. Thanks for startin' another one.

[eyeseetwo]

Ready for more. Thank you!

[darkwolf]

Love the story already. I hope I can wait for more.

If your Muse slows down I will chip in for coffee.

Thanks

[gipsy]

What a great start. Thanks

[texican]

PP2,

Good beginning....

Only need moar....

Texican....

[udwe]

Looks like another great one. Thanks!

[texican]

I'm still dealing with a somewhat capricious muse, so don't expect frequent long postings - she hasn't provided this much inspiration in quite a while. However, I am filling in some missing days and maybe you'll get a chapter a week.

------------------------------

PP2,

Now PP2, if you weren't messing around with ms. muse, couldn't you post more often?.?.?.?

The moar hounds salaciously tilted minds are wondering if by chance you if you would post about your ms. muse....

Texican....

[papaof2]

Jul 11, 2018 21:32:30 GMT -6 texican said:

I'm still dealing with a somewhat capricious muse, so don't expect frequent long postings - she hasn't provided this much inspiration in quite a while. However, I am filling in some missing days and maybe you'll get a chapter a week.

------------------------------

PP2,

Now PP2, if you weren't messing around with ms. muse, couldn't you post more often?.?.?.?

The moar hounds salaciously tilted minds are wondering if by chance you if you would post about your ms. muse....

Texican....

My muse lives in some well hidden compound curve deep in my warped mind, in a place not easily located by me. Even if you have nano bloodhounds, I don'e have anything that has her scent separate from mine. If she doesn't make an appearance, I'm just sitting at the keyboard like a hummingbird - remember that those birds hum because they don't know the words.

[texican]

Jul 11, 2018 22:13:25 GMT -6 papaof2 said:

Jul 11, 2018 21:32:30 GMT -6 texican said:

I'm still dealing with a somewhat capricious muse, so don't expect frequent long postings - she hasn't provided this much inspiration in quite a while. However, I am filling in some missing days and maybe you'll get a chapter a week.

------------------------------

PP2,

Now PP2, if you weren't messing around with ms. muse, couldn't you post more often?.?.?.?

The moar hounds salaciously tilted minds are wondering if by chance you if you would post about your ms. muse....

Texican....

My muse lives in some well hidden compound curve deep in my warped mind, in a place not easily located by me. Even if you have nano bloodhounds, I don'e have anything that has her scent separate from mine. If she doesn't make an appearance, I'm just sitting at the keyboard like a hummingbird - remember that those birds hum because they don't know the words.

PP2,

muse, warped, bird, hum....

Seems like there are hidden insights in your writings that would tantalize most if they understood....

Texican....

[2t2crash]

Hooked!
Give your muse some whiskey if she's Irish.

[papaof2]

My muse was back today but she's suffering from some sort of calendar allergy - the thousand words she brought are three weeks in the future of the story and I don't even have notes for that day. Now to dovetail what I planned with what she gave me. How do I fit a plug with 11 square pins into a socket with 8 round receptacles???

Not to mention the ideas she brought up for the month after that. Maybe I should give up this writing business and go back to just enjoying what other people write?

Well, that didn't work. I tried the Niven/Pournelle classic "A Mote in God's Eye" and it finally talked me to death with details at about 80% complete.

Maybe I'll try writing again tomorrow...

[udwe]

Gotta be in the mood!

[9idrr]

Jul 14, 2018 0:34:53 GMT -6 papaof2 said:

 How do I fit a plug with 11 square pins into a socket with 8 round receptacles???

Sheesh, we all know that if it don't fit, you get a bigger hammer.

[texican]

Jul 14, 2018 15:59:31 GMT -6 udwe said:

Gotta be in the mood!

udwe,

Sound like you have heard that numerous times from the spouse....

Texican....

[texican]

Jul 14, 2018 0:34:53 GMT -6 papaof2 said:

Maybe I'll try writing again tomorrow...

PP2,

You have made many of the moar hound clan happy....

Texican....

[papaof2]

This is a very long chapter (6,751 words) but don't get your hopes up too much - my muse rarely grants me this many words. More like 600 - 800 and then I negotiate with her for the rest of the chapter - IF she's even around :-(


Chapter 2 - Wednesday, 9 June


Beep!Beep!Beep!Beep! Beep!Beep!Beep!Beep!

It's an annoying alarm but the little clock keeps good time, the alarm almost always wakes me in a minute or less and the AA battery lasts more than a year. Time to shower and shave and see about breakfast. It's early enough that Mabel's Diner is still officially serving breakfast so I'll try it instead of the buffet here at the motel. I might pick up some doughnuts or muffins as I go through the lobby as a treat for the girls - including Sally. None of them look at all overfed. I'll also suggest lunch before taking them back home.


I pulled in the Northern Tool lot on my way back to the motel last night and they're open from 5AM to 9PM. I'll continue to work on my list while I eat breakfast and I'll check what's in the barn and the outbuildings after I take Sally and the girls home.

---

The eggs are exactly as I asked, the biscuits are light and flakey and the coffee tastes as good as it smells. Those are excellent reasons for the "Our 37th Year" sign over the calendar. If a restaurant consistently provides good food and excellent service they tend to stay in business. I see a Sheriff's cruiser coming into the lot. I asked for a window booth primarily from habit but it's a good habit.


"Dr. Jackson?"

"Yes, Deputy?"

"Sir, I'm Pete Davis. Doug's Creek is part of my patrol area. If you need anything, the Sheriff probably gave you my number."

"He did."

"Out here, we also monitor CB channels 9 and 21. Just call for 'PD'. If I'm in range, I'll answer."

"Thank you. Could I buy you breakfast?"

"Absolutely! I was called out at 4AM for a wreck at Joe's Hamburger Heaven - two kids trying to drag race in the parking lot and one of them hit the steel-pipe-filled-with-concrete posts that keep cars from running into the drive through window. He would have been OK with a seat belt but not without. The air bag saved his life but he's pretty badly banged up."

"Maybe he'll learn from this one."

"It's his third accident this year. I'm sure the judge will include some jail time along with a fine."


"What'll it be, Pete?"

"Molly, this is Dr. Jackson. He's buying the old Thompson place."

"Welcome to Doug's Creek, Dr. Jackson."

"Call me Jack."

"Jack, I'm Molly. You didn't offer to buy this vacuum cleaner breakfast by any chance?"

"I did."

"As long as you're aware that he's been known to eat almost two dozen eggs at one sitting."

"Molly! That was at the Egg Farmers' Association eating contest at the county fair. I don't eat like that anywhere else."

"Not in just one meal, anyway. I know you want coffee. What else?"

"The number four special. Scrambled with cheese and bacon."

"I'll bring out another basket of biscuits."

"Deputy…"

"Call me Pete."

"OK, Pete. Why does it seem that I'm a celebrity here when I'm just an author most of these people have never heard of?"

"It's a long story, Dr…"

"Call me Jack."

"OK, Jack. It's a long story. More than two hundred years ago, few families who were 'naturists' - usually called nudists now - moved out to the middle of nowhere and started a community. While the blood lines are watched to limit the inbreeding, 'kissing cousins' often do a lot more than kiss. Sally was the prettiest girl around when she was 15 and we were into kissing and more back then. Sarah is my daughter."

"I've not met her or Lisa yet."

"I think you'll notice the differences when you see her with the others. Continuing the long story, when Sally and Jimmy became an item, I knew he'd be better for her than I would because mechanics tend to live safer and longer lives than people in law enforcement. She could expect him to be home every night."

"That's an excellent reason for ensuring someone you care about is in a good marriage."

"The other girls are all Jimmy's. He's semi-local as he was born here but his Dad got a job offer in Felt and they lived there about ten years. Seems that was long enough for Jimmy to forget everything he'd learned about how the community here functions. Two years ago, Sarah heard about her 12 year old cousin BJ - for Barbara Jean - who was pregnant by her 14 year old cousin, Kent. BJ and Kent had been inseparable since they were toddlers and it was obvious they were soulmates from an early age. Letting kids make those choices early was another reason the community was as far out as it was. When Sarah asked Jimmy to teach her about 'making a baby' as she'd heard about from BJ, Jimmy slapped her, yelled 'You stupid little whore!' and left the house. We think he slept in his truck. Anyway, he made it to work Friday but the people he worked with said he was upset about something and he just wasn't all there. He stopped at the County Line Tavern after work and stayed until they closed. I think it was an automobile suicide as the accident investigator estimated the truck was doing 110 when it hit the bridge abutment."

"That's very sad, but what's my part in your long story?"

"Two things. First and most important, my daughter and her sisters need a non-judgmental man in their lives who won't panic on a question like Sarah's but will give her a truthful and age-appropriate answer. Just telling Sarah 'That's a girl question so you should ask your mother' would have been so much better for all of them. The Sheriff told me that you were a shrink of some kind who worked with kids but gave it up when there was one you couldn't help. These kids need someone who will listen to them and try to guide them. Second, Sally needs a man in her life. You may not be looking for companionship or a partner but having a fresh bloodline in the community would also be a good thing as we don't have many people move out here - other than those of the total recluse mindset - and certainly not many who can accept the lifestyle some of us have. You're a good fit for the area. As long as the girls are happy, you're a distant cousin of the Sheriff and will be seen as just another local."

"Then I'm looking forward to the closing although I'm still waiting to hear from Ms. Watson about when Bobby Thompson will be here."

"He's already here. He got drunk and rowdy at the County Line Tavern late last night and he's been sobering up in a cell at the County Jail. The Sheriff will have Bobby at the closing when he's sober enough to be civil."

"I planned to take Sally and the girls to lunch at the Diner after we signed the papers but maybe lunch should be first."

"You'll fit in well. Jimmy's mechanic skills got them running water and some electricity but other than a little kitchen garden, that place doesn't grow much other than trees, weeds, goats and kids with four and two legs."

"Good one, Pete! I'll text Sally and let her know I'll be there in an hour so I can meet the other two girls."

"You can text from here. The Diner and the Shack have the best cell signals in the entire four blocks of town."

"Done. Let me settle up with Molly and I'll be on my way out again."

"I saw mud on your tires. Did you drive back during the storm yesterday?"

"In four wheel drive and with the tire pressure adjusted for the road surface."

"How'd you adjust the tire pressure?"

"Finish your fourth biscuit and follow me out to get the 25 cent tour of my truck."

"Will do."


"Jack, thank you for the very generous tip!"

"You're welcome, Molly. You and Pete sound like you're working on a wedding."

"Pete! You told him?"

"Pete didn't mention it. I was just paying attention to the two of you. Little things are sometimes a matter of life or death and often a source of amazement to some people."

"You're good, Jack."

"It's been one of my jobs, Pete."

"Now I really want to see your truck!"


"International is building pickups again?"

"No. It's a custom restoral and renovation done by a friend."

"A very talented friend!"

"That he is. The tire pressure control is under this panel in the console."

"Individual and all tires control. That's impressive!"

"The friend also builds Formula 1 cars and this is the same system."

"So does this also move and handle like a Formula 1?"

"It moves well for its size. The handling is excellent. There's a small hybrid configuration that can move the vehicle 20 miles on batteries at low speed or add another 30 HP to the drivetrain for a short period."

"Looks like the dash hides more goodies."

"It does. Ask again when I don't have a date with five pretty girls."

"You go take care of them. By the way, Sarah likes pecan pie but all the others like apple. I think it's hereditary."

"I'll remember that. See you later, Pete."

"See you, Jack."

---

I have the GPS on but I'm working from map and memory. If this is to be 'home', I should be able to find my way without electronics. There's the drive for my new place - will some future purchaser hear it described as 'the Jackson place' or will it still be 'the Thompson place' as it has been for more than 100 years?


There's the pink and green mailbox and four of my five 'dates', dressed as Marie and Alice were yesterday.


"Mister Jack!"

"Hello, Sarah. Hello, Lisa."

"How'd you know my name?"

"Or mine?"

"Your mother told me she had four pretty girls and I met Marie and Alice yesterday. So the older of you two had to be Sarah and the younger had to be Lisa."

"You 'splain things good. We get hugs and nose kisses 'cause Marie and Alice got them yesterday."

"Sarah, do I pick you up or bend down to you?"

"Pick me up!"

"Here's your hug and a kiss on your nose."

"OK."

"Lisa?"

"Pick me up!"

"Another hug and a kiss on your nose."

"OK."

"Momma said to bring you up to the house. Most cars can't get up the road."

"This truck isn't like 'most cars'. All of you in the truck. Marie and Lisa up front. Sarah in back so she can help Alice."

"OK, but it ain't gonna work."

"Watch. Tire pressure up 8PSI. Add four inches of airbag lift…"

"Did the truck just grow?"

"It got a little taller, Marie. Now it has enough clearance to make it through the ruts and rocks ahead."

"It ain't gonna... It did! But the door won't open!"

"I have the doors locked until the truck is back at normal height. I don't want any of you falling out and breaking your piano."

"You're silly! People don't have pianos."

"Some people do, Sarah, and they play them every day."

"Your jokes are as bad as Daddy's were!"

"Now try the door."

"OK. Mister Jack, Alice wants you to carry her."

"I can do that."

"You're so big and strong. I feel safe with you."

"And I'll add handsome to 'big and strong'. Isn't it early for us to go?"

"Not if you'll let me buy my new neighbors lunch before the signing…"

"We can't impose…"

"Not an imposition if I have five pretty girls as my dates."

"Do it, Momma!"

"I know when I'm outnumbered. I'll get my phone and ID and be back in a minute. Girls, go potty and put on your dresses."

"Yes, Momma."

---

"Jack, you're part of the family as you have two of them smiling and the other two want to sit by you when we eat."

"As long as they're not too messy. If they're too messy, I'll take them outside and turn the hose on them."

"I'm not that messy!"

"Me too!"


"How did you get the truck up to the house? It's too low to clear."

"It grows, Momma."

"Grows?"

"It does get taller when I increase the tire pressure and adjust the air lift."

"I feel it moving. Jimmy would have loved learning how those things work."

"If there are any would-be mechanics in the group, I can show you the manual and there's even a DVD of how it works."

"I wanna see!"

"Me too!"

"But you can't work it, Alice."

"Not yet, Lisa, but Momma said we'll have money for my surgery after Grandpa Robert's house is sold. Then I'll get all better."

---

"Party of six, Jack?"

"Yes, Molly. My new neighbors when we finish at the real estate office after lunch."

"Welcome to Doug's Creek. I can tell that Alice is glad you're here. She likes to be carried as much as Dakota Fanning did in 'The War of the Worlds'."

"She's prettier than Dakota."

"I'm sure her mother won't argue with you about that. The big booth by the window?"

"Girls?"

"Yes, Mister Jack!"

"Booth it is. We need to do some shuffling as there were specific seating requests. Sarah and Lisa asked to sit by me at lunch."

"Then you get everyone arranged while I get menus."

---

"Can we have pie?"

"We'll talk pie after you finish your meal."

"Yes, Momma."

"Jack, you really have a DVD on how to operate your truck?"

"Yes, Sally. I worked with Brad on the design of all the enhancements but I needed a way to introduce someone to the non-standard items when I need another driver. The DVD does that in less than 30 minutes."

"Can I learn?"

"Sarah, that's a maybe. I don't know if you're tall enough to see over the dash or if your legs are long enough and strong enough to handle the gas, brake and clutch."

"Grandpa Robert let me drive the tractor back to the barn sometimes."

"Remember that you can see down either side of the tractor's engine if you lean to that side. The dash and the hood on the truck mean that your eyes must be high enough to see over those things. We must see if your body is big enough to drive the truck and you must get permission from your mother to learn to drive it."

"I'm gonna like having you here!"


Sarah and Lisa each have one arm around me as far as they can reach. It's good that Lisa is the left-handed twin but maybe she's had enough experience being left-handed to have planned to be on that side. If they were any closer they'd be inside my shirt.

---

"Can we have dessert, Momma?"

"Jack, you don't have to spoil them."

"You're included in the spoiling, Sally."

"Yes, you may have pie. No ice cream on it or you'll be too hyper to stay still at the real estate office."

"OK, Momma."


"Did I hear 'dessert'?"

"Yes, Molly. Pecan pie for Sarah and me; apple for the others."

"How'd you know what we like?"

"Sarah, I met your Uncle Pete yesterday and he told me that you liked pecan and the others liked apple."

"Oh."

"A la mode?"

"Molly, Sally said 'No ice cream' so just pie. I'd like coffee and the girls need drink refills. Sally?"

"Coffee, Molly."

---

"The kids all look sleepy. Alice naps almost daily but the other kids rarely take naps. "

"Maybe having a big meal in the middle of the day made them sleepy? It works on adults at Thanksgiving dinner."

"There's nowhere for them to sleep!"

"But there is. Sarah and Marie are semi-conscious so get them to sit in the door opening while I do this."

"The seats make a real bed!"

"I've had occasion to spend many hours in my vehicles and this one also includes a decent place to sleep. Now to get them in place. Alice here with the console to protect her from whoever is on the other side. The others as you think they'll be comfortable."

"How will we know they're OK?"

"Will wireless cameras with display and sound on this tablet be OK?"

"Excellent! Lisa told me that you can lock the doors so they can't open them unless you know they can't fall out."

"That also serves other security needs but today not falling out is primary."

Bzzt!Bzzt!

"That's a text. It's from the Sheriff. He's on his way with Bobby."

"Sheriff?"

"Seems Bobby got here late yesterday and spent his time drinking at the County Line Tavern. He got rowdy drunk and wound up spending the night as a guest of the County."

"He'll be in a foul mood."

"But he'll be on his best behavior for a little while as I also see Pete's cruiser pulling in."

---

"Sally, I thought you were bringing the kids."

"Susie, they're asleep in the truck and I have video of them on this tablet."

"That truck does have all the bells and whistles! There's a copy of the documents at each place. Sally here. Dr. Jackson here. Bobby he…"

"Let go of me you stupid bumpkin with a badge! I'm here for something important - watching my sister give away what should be mine to some city slicker with book learning who probably can't drive a stick!"

"I guarantee that he can drive a stick as I've seen the inside of his truck. You probably don't want to challenge him."

"That graying old fart? Take these cuffs off me and I'll show you and him!"

"Jack?"

"Take him outside, Pete."

"Good! Room enough for me to stomp your ass all over the lot!"

"Sheriff, if you'll hold my weapons?"

"Yes, Jack."

"Come on! Mano a mano! I'm gonna enjoy kicking your a.."

Splat!

"Is he dead?"

"No, but he might have a mild concussion."

"What did your hit him with?"

"This book."

"'A History of the Modern World'?"

"Those who don't learn from history…"

"Are doomed to repeat it. In his case, just 'doomed'."

"Susie, you have any ice water?"

"Pitcher of cold water in the fridge, Sheriff."


Splash!


"Huh? What? How'd I get on the ground?"

"Book learning."

"Sheriff, stop laughing and tell me what he hit me with!"

"Book learning, Bobby. You get up and behave or I'll ask him to use a library next time."

"You're serious."

"Dead serious. Just as dead as you're likely to be if you go stupid again."

"I'll get you, old ma..."

ZAP!

"Jack, this time I was in position to use the taser and he'd already attacked you once. Bobby, can you move your legs."

"It hurts!"

"You get up and stay civil or it will hurt a lot more. I know how much as I've been tased three times. Once in training and twice by trainees who couldn't shoot straight. Those two are on the current Governor's security team and are the quality of protection he deserves."

"I'm getting up. You gonna get these wires out of me?"

"After this meeting is over. Meanwhile, I want you on a leash."

"You're here, Bobby."

"And I'm right behind him, Susie."

---

"That's everything but the exchanging of money. Sally and Bobby each get half. What arrangements would you like to make for that, Dr. Jackson?"

"I have two certified checks. Each is for one half the agreed upon price. If you would verify these and hand them out, Ms. Watkins?"

"Yes, Dr. Jackson. These seem to be in order so the sale is completed. Congratulations on your new home!"

"Thank you. Sally, you ready to take the girls home?"

"I want to get this check in the bank so I can notify the surgeon and the hospital. The nearest branch is about 20 miles away."

"How are the kids?"

"Beginning to stir but not fully awake."

"Then we should wake them and reconfigure the seats so you can go to the bank. Ms. Watson, I'll take the umbrella back now."

"It's right here, Dr. Jackson. Thank you so much."


"What about me?"

"Bobby, I'll take you to your truck. In the back seat."

"But…"

"Or in cuffs and in the back seat."

"I'm in. But I'll get that old man. All that money should have been mine!"

"Just remember that we won't be there to stop things next time."

"I'll stomp his ass!"

"As well as you did this time? I expect to go on a call for a body on the ground beside your truck. I doubt that we'll find any useful evidence there."

---

"I'll roll the window down remotely and reach in to move Alice away from this door before I open it. That's better. Now to open the driver's door and verify how close the others are to an edge. They're all OK. You can open the doors on that side and wake them. I'll start here. Hi, Alice."

"I love your wakeup, Mister Jack. Do me every morning?"

"Only if you're sleeping at my house. I don't plan to walk that far to say 'Good Morning'."

"OK. Can I stay tonight?"

"I'm not moved in yet."

"Bummer."

"Hi, Sarah."

"Nice wakeup, Mister Jack! Do me every morning?"

"I'm not moved in yet and it's too far to walk between the houses."

"You can sleep in my bed."

"Where would you sleep?"

"With you!"

"You need to talk with your mother before making an offer like that."


"Marie and Lisa say they didn't get a wakeup kiss from you."

"Then I guess I'll have to kiss both of those noses."

---

"The bank is at the next light, Jack. Prairie River Bank and Trust on the right."

"You should take this check inside and ask for the manager."

"OK, but I've never seen the manager, let alone talked to him."

"He'll see you."


"May I help you?"

"We need to see the manager."

"I'm sorry the manager is not available."

"Then tell Mister Not Available that we're taking the kids and this certified check for $190,000 to your competitor across the road."

"Please wait. He's on his way."


'How'd you know?'

'They always have a way of telling the manager when a large sum of money is involved.'


"I apologize for the wait. How may I help you?"

"Mrs. Jenkins is here to make a large deposit and she'd also like to get $5,000 in cash…"

"I'm sorry, but there's a waiting period for large cash withdrawals."

"Sally, we're leaving. He's either ignorant or deliberately lying to you. There are reporting requirements at $5,000 but no waiting requirement. Brian Wallace, I'm Mikhail Jackson. I'm a major stockholder of this bank's parent company. I hope you can ask 'You want fries with that?' in a convincing voice because you won't find another job in the financial industry. By the way, Listerine doesn't cover the smell of bourbon."

"Please, I need my job to pay for the Tesla and the swimming pool!"

"Had you said you needed the job to feed your kids, I might have given you another chance. Unless the picture on your desk is a fake as your 'Please', your children will soon be hungry."

"But…"


"Sir, Ma'am. I'm the assistant manager. Can I be of assistance? Brian has been running this branch into the dirt but your conversation tells me he's no longer in charge."

"You have an office?"

"This way, sir."

"First a call I need to make."


Ring!

'Dewey, Cheatham and Howe. How may I direct your call?'

'This is Mikhail Jackson. I need to speak with George Dean immediately. It's about the impending failure of one of the PRBT branches.'

'One moment, Mr. Jackson.'

"Sir?"

"What is it, Amanda?"

"Mikhail Jackson about the failure of a PRBT branch."

"Put him through!"

'George, this is Jack.'

'What do you have, Jack?'

'Sending you an email with video attachment. Brian Wallace is drunk on the job. He's either ignorant or lying to customers to cover something as he said there was a waiting period for a $5,000 cash withdrawal. That withdrawal from a $190,000 certified check to be deposited.'

'He's fired. I'll have a crew of auditors in tomorrow before the branch opens. Is Rita McDervin there today?'

'We're in her office.'

'May I speak with her?'

'Sure.'

"Ms. McDervin? George Dean wants to speak with you."

"That George Dean? The new Chairman?"

"Yes."

'This is Rita McDervin.'

'Congratulations, Rita. You're the new branch manager, effective immediately. That's a 7 per cent raise. Thank you for stepping in.'

'Thank you, sir.'

'You're welcome. Put Jack back on.'

"You're Jack?"

"Yes."

"Mr. Dean wants to speak with you."

'Yes, George?'

'I have a crew coming to evict Brian Wallace. Should be there within the hour. I'll assume you're taking care of a friend. I'll notify Rita that the friend's account gets preferred interest and other perks. This isn't the first time you've done CYA for us and I know you won't take any reward but we can reward loyal customers.'

'Thanks, George. If this customer needs a loan for medical reasons, I'll co-sign the first $500,000 of it.'

'Then this customer is good for up to $1 million as I'll cover the next $500,000. I'll get Rita to draw up the paperwork and have it ready for your and your friend's signatures if needed.'

'Thanks. The kids are getting restless so time to go/'

"You just arranged for me to get a $1 million loan for medical expenses?"

"Yes."

"Who are you?"

"I own a lot of stock in this bank's parent company."

"No wonder you offered as much as you did for the property. Susie said we might not get even half of what we were asking."

"Carry me, Mister Jack?"

"Yes, Alice. It does appear that the money is going to a good cause."

"You're a real softie where kids are concerned but you kicked Bobby's butt. He'll probably be looking to get even with you. He hadn't lost a fight in years until today."

"If he comes back for more, what color casket would you want for him?"

"Pine box is fine."

"I'll remember that."

---

"Jack, I hate to ask after all you've done today but could we stop at the IGA at the next light? They have the best prices on some things."

"Of course. Have to be sure these kids keep up their strength so they can hold on when I carry them around. How do we place everyone?"

"Alice and Lisa in the cart seats. Sarah pushing Lisa and Marie pushing Alice in those carts. Me collecting items to go in the carts. You sampling all the goodies at the ends of the aisles."

"I can handle that. Where's Customer Service?"

"Over that way."

"OK. See you later."


"May I help you, sir?"

"Is the manager in?"

"Yes, sir. What's this about?"

"About $500 in groceries to be purchased and a favor I'd like to ask."

"I'll call him."


"I'm Bill Adams. How may I help you?"

"When the lady with the four girls goes through checkout, I want someone to take a copy of the receipt and collect five times as much of the shelf stable items. Here's $500 to start and here's $20 for the stock boy who winds up doing the work."

"Can you explain?"

"She's a neighbor with a very sick child and I want them to have a cushion to fall back on during the child's illness."

"Understood. How will you transport that much?"

"Bed of the green pickup out front. It has tiedowns and a cover."

"I'll have Jacob get in place to do it. How long can you wait?"

"We'll be at Walmart getting clothes and shoes for all of them. I'll pick these things up when we finish there. That's one reason for just getting shelf stable foods."

"One reason?"

"They don't have a large enough fridge or freezer to keep five times the fresh or frozen foods."

"Most of us don't."

---

"Jack, why were you talking with the manager?"

"I'll have to stock up when I move in. I was asking about a quantity purchase."

"You're so logical. Do you always plan ahead like that?"

"I try to. I even brought a bed for sleepy kids I'd never met."

"So you did. We need to get through checkout and home as things will only stay frozen that long."

"There's a fridge/freezer in what looks like a toolbox in the bed of the truck. It's good for at least overnight."

"Then I need to stop at Walmart and spend some of this $5,000. The kids need clothes and shoes."

"They're not the only ones."

"I can't spend this money on me!"

"Then spend my money on you. Here's $500. I expect you to have a cart of your own."

"I can't…"

"You can't let someone be a good neighbor to a family with a sick child?"

"You do know how to make things difficult! If I have to, I guess I will."

"Then go spend money and remember to get minutes and data for your phone."

"That too."


Now to sporting goods and see what they have in dehydrated and freeze dried foods. I can beat these prices in a bulk order but a few things to stock my pantry until the things from storage get here and a few more to start stocking Sally's for the long term - I am a sucker for kids that want to hug me. Also more ammunition for me. I need to check Sally's firearms skills and what weapons she may have. As calm as she was about the arms I'm carrying, I'm certain she's been around shooters for a long time. I don't think she'll have a problem with me saying that Sarah and Marie are old enough to start learning to shoot so I'll also get a couple of the Daisy BB guns, lots of ammo, some paper targets and the metal bell and turnover targets. I'll tell the twins that they may be in the gun class but they must be at least six to start shooting anything other than a Nerf gun. Need to pick up a couple of those as well over in toys and maybe some unexpected goodies to have at my house - assorted coloring books and the 64 packs of crayons, plus a some new bedtime books. A tent, some decent kid-size sleeping bags, a Buddy heater and some 1lb propane tanks, a propane camp stove and a few more things for 'camping out' which I think the girls might like to do. If Alice weren't so fragile, I'd skip the heater but I think it's a necessity right now. A few things in the pharmacy area plus some personal hygiene items and my short list is finished. Sally is still in the shoe department so I can check out, get my things in the truck and get back inside without being missed.


That's done. Sally's in the Ladies section. The kids are getting restless.

"Girls…"

"Yes, Mister Jack?"

"I know you're tired of being here. What if we go to the Mickey D's for some fries and drinks?"

"Yes!"

"You're spoiling them again."

"No, I'm rewarding them for being good and encouraging them to keep on doing that."

"Spoiling. Go ahead. It'll be nice to be in the dressing room alone."

"Sarah might be helpful with a zipper but the others are likely to be happier elsewhere."

"Take them all. Sarah's already done 'zipper duty'."

"Carry me, Mister Jack?"

"Again, Alice?"

---

"I see you haven't finished your fries, Jack."

"No, Momma. Those are yours. And a Diet Coke."

"Those were Alice's idea because you're always taking care of her and you need a special treat too."

"I think the pollen is bad today."

"Yes, something is making your eyes water. No tissues in my pocket so have a clean napkin."

"That'll work."

"You're checked out?"

"Yes. Just need to get things to the truck."

"Then let's do that and I have one more stop to make."

"OK."

---

"The IGA?"

"I mentioned talking to the manager about a bulk buy. There's a pallet out front. I'll park by it."


"Mr. Jackson?"

"Yes, Jacob."

"This is yours, sir."

"Thank you. Can you help me get it in the bed of the truck?"

"Yes, sir."


"Thank you, Jacob."

"Another $20? Thank you, sir!"

---

"That's a lot of food!"

"Maybe a couple months' worth. But I will be living a good distance from any store, the road goes to crap when it rains and probably when it snows and I don't have a garden started."

"There you go being logical again."

"Could you store these things for me until I get moved in? I don't know how any other neighbors might treat an unoccupied house where someone has just left a dozen IGA boxes."

"That's also logical. I think we can fit a dozen boxes into the various rooms."

"Thank you. I'll bring them in and you can tell me where they'll fit."

"I wanna help!"

"Me too."

"Sorry, Marie, but you and the twins just aren't big enough to move these boxes yet. I think Sarah is but she'll only be moving one box at a time."

"Yes, Mister Jack."

"Sarah, we can start now."

"Yes!"

---

"Things are now sorted by weight so you can take this box."

"OK."


"You were gone long enough!"

"Marie, I had to move every box to see which ones Sarah can safely carry. I had to arrange them so she can reach the boxes on the tailgate. I can reach over the side of the bed and pick up a box but she's not tall enough to do that."

"I sometimes forget that while she's the biggest she's not big enough to do everything."

"Correct. Sarah, back out for another box."


"That was quick!"

"We didn't have to shuffle things this time. Next trip will take longer because when we move a couple more boxes to the back of the bed, I'll be able to reach the fridge/freezer and then we'll bring the fresh foods in. They're not in boxes so we'll take the boxes your mother emptied while putting things away and we'll bring the fresh things back in those boxes."

---

"Sarah, you carry this box of produce. It's lighter than the meats. There are two more boxes of these things."

"Yes, Mister Jack."


"That took you long enough!"

"Marie, where were the meats and the produce?"

"In the funny fridge in your toolbox."

"Were they in boxes?"

"No, just the bags."

"So how did all the meats and all the produce get into boxes?"

"You had to check what each one was and put it in the right box?"

"Correct. How many pieces are there?"

"Seven meats and ten produce."

"Can they just be tossed into the box?"

"No, 'cause some things will crush other… It does take a long time to do this."

"Correct again."

"I'm sorry, Mister Jack. I just want to spend time with you and Sarah's getting to but she's not curled up in your lap if you're busy sorting stuff. Can we get lap time?"

"If your mother says it's OK for me to read each of you a bedtime story, I'll do that one at a time in my lap for her story until you're all done. Alice, Lisa, Marie, Sarah in that order. But we have a couple more boxes to bring in."

"OK. I'll go brush and floss."

"Me too."

"Very well handled, Jack. You should be a parent with a dozen kids."

"Out here, perhaps. Not so much elsewhere."

"Out here is an excellent place for you. I hope you find reasons to become a permanent resident."

"I may already have found a few of those. Lisa and Sarah seemed happy to be sitting by me when we ate. Their smiles make me happy."

"Then I hope you become addicted to their smiles."

"That doesn't sound like a bad addiction at all. Sarah, one more box."

"Yes, Mister Jack."


"Sarah, you take that box. When we get inside, go brush and floss and get ready for bed. I said that I'd read a bedtime story to each of you with you in my lap…"

"Yes!"

"Bedtime story, not the Harry Potter volume I saw on your bed. Go."

"I'm going."


"Last two boxes. All but Sarah ready for bed?"

"Yes, Mister Jack."

"We'll wait for her to change and brush. All of you may listen to all of the stories but you only get lap time for one story. And I told Sarah it was a bedtime story only, not the Harry Potter book on her bed."

"She'd be in your lap all week for that!"

"Maybe not quite that long but longer than any bedtime story."

"I'm done!"

"Then come join us."

"I'm here."

"Which book, Alice?"

"'All the Way to the Moon'. You hold me like this and I'll hold the book."

---

"Alice is asleep on the first reading?"

"She is this time."

"I'll carry her to bed, Jack."


"Which book, Lisa?"

"'Goodnight, Moon'. Hold me like you did Alice."

---

"Lisa is asleep on one book?"

"Tonight."

"Then I'll carry her to bed."


"Which book, Marie?"

"'Cat in the Hat'. Hold me like you did Lisa."

---

"Marie's not asleep yet?"

"She wants me to carry her to bed, tuck her in and give her a goodnight kiss."

"Then she's almost asleep."


"Goodnight, Marie."

"Goodnight, Mister Jack. Kiss me?"

"On your nose."

---

"Didn't take her long to be asleep and she's already snoring."

"She was out very quickly. Which book, Sarah?"

"'All the Way to the Moon'."

"I read it once."

"But not just for me. Hold me like you did Marie and I'll hold the book."


"End of the book."

"Carry me to bed and tuck me in and kiss me goodnight?"

"I think I can manage one more sleepy girl."


"You're in your bed. Covers up. Kiss on your nose."


"Thank you, Jack."

"For what?"

"Taking care of four needy little girls. Buying Dad's place for enough to get Alice in for surgery. Giving me a million dollar line of credit for her treatment when you know you'll end up paying for it. Stay with me tonight. No strings; no commitment. If you don't have a condom I really don't care if I get pregnant as it will just make the line a little stronger."

"Sally, I'm honored that you asked me but I want a raincheck for 72 hours from now. If you still feel the same then, I will be my pleasure to stay. If not, I didn't take advantage of you in a weak moment."

"You'll visit the girls either way?"

"Yes. When I get moved in, they're welcome to visit me if you're comfortable with that. Alice has already asked about spending the night."

"I expect all of them will when that option is available. Thank you for giving me hope that Alice might be healed."

"You're welcome. I've been 'loved on' more today than any other day I can remember. I'll be back."

"Your voice isn't deep enough."

"As one of the girls told me today 'You're silly'."

"Me being able to be silly is another miracle you've wrought today. What time tomorrow so I can tell the girls when they ask?"

"I'll spend most of the morning getting things set for the move. Calling to get my things out of storage and on a next-day-delivery truck headed here, going through the barn and other buildings to see what tools and equipment are there and the condition of everything, what else I might need, arranging some type of internet service and I'll also see about getting commercial power."

"So some time in the afternoon?"

"Probably. Did you add time and data to your phone?"

"A thousand minutes and a gigabyte."

"Then I'll call when I'm on the way so you can handle whatever is on your to-do list for tomorrow with no worries about me dropping in and interrupting you."

"Goodnight, Jack."

"Goodnight, Sally."

---

[9idrr]

Thank you. Another good chapter and a long one, to boot.

[texican]

PP2,

Thanks for the long chapter....

Texican....

[darkwolf]

Thank you for the wonderful story, and thank your muse with some chocolate.

[ydderf]

I've some good year old cherry wine if you'd like to offer your muse a bottle. Thank you both for the new chapter.

[papaof2]

Finally got the new glasses today and there's a hitch in the git-a-long. Everything's visible out to the end of my arm and then the astigmatism correction for the left eye goes in the wrong direction - it gets worse. The correction for the right eye is good a foot or so farther out but then it also collapses - to the point that I see better without the glasses :-(

I'll write up what I'm experiencing for another day or so, then email the doctor. I suspect something got twisted in getting the readings from the mechanical gear to the computer to the ordering process. He can tell by using the lens tester to "read" what the lenses were cut to.

The one positive is that I can spend a little longer in front of the computer before my eyes start to hurt...

[9idrr]

Here's hopin' they can get your specs fixed most skosh.