The Long Winter
Chapter Six

They awoke to a frigid morning with a darkened sky that Sunday after Thanksgiving. The fair weather was about to come to an abrupt end. Rob was silently wishing for their Jeep to make the trip home, instead of the rental van.

 

“Did you see the sky out there, Dad?” Mitch came into their room.

 

“Yes, I did,” Rob frowned. “Are the boys about ready to load? I think we need to head out as soon as possible.”

 

“I already told them,” Mitch informed, “They’re packed and ready.”

 

“Paula,” Rob called into the bathroom, “Did we get everything in there? Can we start loading?”

 

“Yes, Honey,” she came out, “Just making a final sweep. Let’s get going.”

 

~*~

 

After checking out, and grabbing donuts to eat on the road, Rob aimed the van for home. Terry had left the day before, once he’d seen Chelsea safely onto her plane.

 

“I liked Chelsea,” Jason shared, “She’s real nice. Do you think she’ll come for Christmas?”

 

“Hope so,” Paula smiled, “I liked her, too.”

 

“I think you boys all did a good job of making her feel welcome,” Rob praised, “I’m sure she appreciated it.”

 

“I know she did,” Mitch reported, “She told me so. She said you were the best behaved boys she’d ever seen.”

 

“Really?” Kevin’s eyes grew wide.

 

“Us?” Keith scrunched his nose.

 

“She’s from California,” Jason explained to his younger brothers, “Kids are probably different out there.”

 

Rob laughed, “Kids are kids, Jason. But you boys are very well behaved. You made me proud this weekend.”

 

“Thanks, Dad,” Jason smiled.

 

“Thanks,” the twins said together.

 

Rob glanced at Paula with a silent question, then when he saw the answer in her eyes, he spoke, “Since we’ve all got some time together now, there’s something we need to discuss as a family.”

 

“Do we have another brother?” Keith asked.

 

“No, Honey,” Paula chuckled, “Just listen to your father, OK?”

 

“There are about to be some big changes at the office where I work,” Rob shared, “and I have to make a choice about those changes. Basically, what it boils down to, is that if I stay there I’ll be away from home, and all of you, a lot more. Your mother and I have talked about it and neither one of us likes that idea. Do you?”

 

They all shook their heads, including Mitch.

 

“The other option,” Rob continued, “is for me to start working from home on my own. If I do that, we can start running the stable, like we’ve talked about in the past. It’ll mean we all have to pitch in and work. It will also mean watching our money a little closer. How do you guys feel about that?”

 

“Our own stable?” Kevin spoke first, “That’s cool, Dad.”

 

“That sounds neat,” Keith agreed.

 

“Would you start teaching us stuff?” Jason wondered, “I mean, instead of Mom?”

 

“Probably some things,” Rob answered, “Like math and science.”

 

“Could we do more projects?” Kevin wondered.

 

“Like the hot walker?” Keith piped in, “That was fun!”

 

“I’m sure we’d end up finding lots of projects,” Rob smiled.

 

“We’d love to have you home, Dad,” Jason spoke for all of them, “We all like it when you help with school. I mean, not that we don’t like it with Mom…but…”

 

“It’s OK, Honey,” Paula assured, “I like it when your dad helps, too.”

 

“Mitch,” Rob asked, “What do you have to say about it?”

 

“Well,” he shrugged, “I don’t think I should have much input. I’m not really involved in this.”

 

“Nonsense,” Paula told him, “You’re part of this family now, too.”

 

“OK,” he conceded, “I’d be willing to help out with the stable however I could. I’d certainly do the vet work for you.  Of course, I can’t do it for free, since I work for Doc, you know.  But I would be willing to forego my cut if that helps out.”

 

“Thank you, Son,” Rob looked back at him, “I really wasn’t asking for that. I do appreciate it, though. By the way, you don’t have heated water at your place for your horses, do you? If you want to just leave them at our place for the winter, you’re more than welcome to.”

 

“No,” Mitch confirmed, “I only have stock tanks and if it stays this cold, I’m going to have a problem. You sure you don’t mind keeping them?”

 

“Not at all,” Rob told him, “We’re in good shape that way. If you want to ride, there’s more room at our place, anyway.”

 

“I think I’ll take you up on that, then,” Mitch agreed, “I bet we hit snow before we reach home.”

 

“I bet you’re right,” Rob agreed, “So, it sounds to me like everyone’s OK with this idea of a stable. It may mean not having such a big Christmas this year. Are you boys OK with that?”

 

They all nodded, but Jason spoke, “Sure, Dad. We already got a new brother this year, and now we’ve got a new cousin. That’s better than presents.”

 

Paula and Rob exchanged smiles. He told them, “Thank you, Boys. You’re the best sons a man could ask for…all four of you.”

 

~*~

 

As predicted, they drove into snow about a third of the way home. It was just heavy enough to slow traffic down.  Paula tried to keep the boys occupied without distracting Rob from driving. Mitch helped by telling them stories from his days in vet school.

 

“Do you think I could be a vet someday, like you?” Kevin asked.

 

“I’m sure you could,” Mitch told him, “But only if you study hard and remember what you learn. It’s not easy to get into vet school these days.”

 

“I bet Mitch would help you study,” Paula suggested. “And when you get a little older, maybe Doc would give you a part time job at the clinic. You can learn a lot that way, can’t you, Mitch?”

 

“Sure can,” he nodded, “Maybe next summer you could ride out on some calls with me.”

 

“I’m going to be an architect like Dad,” Keith announced.

 

“Well,” Paula informed, “I’m sure Dad will help you learn. Won’t you, Dad?”

“What’s that?” Rob was concentrating on driving.

 

“Sorry, Honey,” Paula apologized, “Keith was just saying he wants to be an architect like you. I told him you’d help him learn how.”

 

“Oh, sure I will,” Rob was still only half listening, “Sorry, but this van doesn’t like the snow. I’d much rather be in the Jeep or truck.”

 

“Want some relief?” Mitch offered, “I’ll drive for a while if you want.”

 

“Thanks,” Rob shook his head, “but I’m OK. We’ll be home before too much longer.”

 

“Rob’s driven this road so much he could almost do it blindfolded,” Paula reminded, “When he was still driving back and forth to see me every weekend, he kept the road hot.”

 

“Yeah,” Mitch teased, “but he was a lot younger then.”

 

Rob glanced at him in the rearview mirror, “If you want to live to be my age, you’d better pipe down back there.”

 

“Who? Me?” Mitch laughed.

 

“Yes, you,” Rob warned, “I’m not too old to put you in your place.”

 

“Hey, Guys,” Paula frowned, “Stop, OK? I know you’re just teasing each other, but it sounds bad.”

 

“Sorry, Mom,” Mitch said, “I didn’t mean to sound disrespectful. Believe me, Dad, I wish I’d meet a girl worth driving 400 miles every weekend for. I think you may have gotten the last one."

 

“What about Chelsea?” Kevin asked. “Didn’t you like her, Mitch?”

 

“She’s really pretty,” Keith agreed.

 

“She’s our cousin,” Jason reminded, “She doesn’t count.”

 

“Jason’s right,” Mitch lamented, “She’s family, so she’s off limits. She is pretty, though.”

 

~*~

 

It was late afternoon before they finally headed down the lane toward their house. A trip that normally took three hours had taken almost twice that long. The snow was coming down heavy by then and the farm had a soft white blanket on it.

 

“Isn’t it beautiful?” Paula remarked.

 

“Now that we’re home, it is,” Rob grinned. “Although if this keeps up, I may have fun turning this van back in tomorrow.”

 

“Maybe we should park it at the end of the lane, by the road, after we unload,” Paula suggested.

 

“I have a better idea,” Mitch offered, “I’ll help you unload, then I’ll follow you over to the clinic. You can park it there overnight. I’ll swing by and pick you up tomorrow morning on my way in.”

 

“Actually,” Rob parked the van and stepped out into about three inches of snow, “I think I’ll take you up on that. If we get two more inches this thing will never make it down our lane or our road. The Jeep can go through anything and the truck almost can, but this thing handles terrible in it.”

 

~*~

 

Paula looked out the bedroom window, “It’s finally stopped.”

 

Rob came up from behind and wrapped his arms around her, “It’s almost as beautiful as you are.”

 

“I hope Mitch didn’t have any trouble getting home,” she leaned back into him, “Do you think we should call and check before we go to bed?”

 

“His truck gets around good,” Rob assured, “It’s got all that weight in back from the vet bed. Besides, he’s got his cell phone. He’d call if he needed help.”

 

“I’m sure you’re right,” she turned around and snuggled up, “Just looking out there makes me cold.”

 

“I’d be glad to warm you up,” he started leading her to the bed.

 

“How would you do that?” She asked, her eyes twinkling.

 

He reached for the light switch, and pulled her into bed with him, “I have a plan…”

 

~*~

 

“You never did tell me your solutions,” Rob spoke softly, holding Paula gently against him in the darkness.

 

“Solutions?” She asked.

 

“To my concerns about quitting my job,” he explained.

 

“Oh those,” she made tiny little patterns on his chest with her finger, “Well, it just so happens, that the other day I got a call from Doc. He wanted to know who your firm had its insurance with. He’s trying to find coverage for his employees, but he’s having trouble coming up with the minimum amount of people to get a good deal. I’d be willing to bet that he’d let us go in with them, just to give them enough people in their group.”

 

“Do you mind talking to him about it?” Rob asked, lifting her hand and kissing her fingers, “If we could work something out like that, it would make me feel better.”

 

“I’ll call him tomorrow,” Paula answered. “And as far as college goes, I don’t think we need to worry about it.  Our boys are every bit as smart as you and Terry. You both got full scholarships, I’m sure they can too. Mitch did. Why wouldn’t they?”

 

“Mitch did?” Rob seemed surprised.

 

“Um-hmm,” Paula looked up at him, “He didn’t tell you that? Chelsea did too. Brains seem to run in the family.”

 

“I hate to count on that,” Rob confessed, “But we may have to. At least it’s not an immediate need.”

 

“No,” she agreed, “It’s not. And you know, one of these days, my mom and dad will be gone and we’ll have their place to do something with. We can sell it and put that money toward college or split it up between them for whatever they may need. Or maybe just let one of them have the place if they want it….”

 

“OK,” he reached up and kissed her, “I get the idea. Don’t worry about it now, right?”

 

“Right,” she ran her fingers through his hair, “Do you know how much I’m going to like having you home?”

 

“You’re really OK with this?” He wasn’t so certain, “I mean, I’ll still be there for a couple of months, but…”

 

“OK with it?” She kissed him, “I love it! I’d spend every moment of my life with you if I could.”

 

“There is one other thing that worries me,” he confessed.

 

“What is it, Honey?” She asked quietly.

 

“If something were to happen to me,” he told her, “I wouldn’t want to leave you and the boys in an impossible situation.”

 

Paula shivered at the thought and cuddled as closely to him as she could, “Rob, if something happened to you now, it would be an impossible situation for me. I don’t think I could function without you.”

 

“Honey,” he stated, “You’d have to…for the boys. I know you’d be OK with money, because I’ve got a good life insurance policy…but taking on all this extra work with a stable…the boys could only do so much, they’re so young…”

 

“Rob,” tears were flowing down her cheeks, “You don’t understand. I mean I don’t think I could get through a day without you. I’m not talking about money or fences or horses. Terry and Mitch would help with those things. I just don’t think I could face a day without you. I wouldn’t want to be on this earth, if you weren’t on it with me.”

 

“Baby,” he wiped her eyes, “I didn’t mean to scare you…Please, Honey, don’t cry. It’s OK…Hey, I don’t want anything to happen to me either.”

 

“I’m sorry,” she didn’t cry easily, “Do you remember when we first met and you asked me if I was afraid of anything?”

 

“Yes, I do,” he recalled, “And you said ‘Not really’.”

 

“Well,” she started crying again, “I am afraid of something now. I’m afraid of losing you.”

 

“Oh, Honey,” he held her tightly and felt a tear in his own eye, “You won’t lose me. I promise. I won’t leave you here alone. Don’t be afraid.”

 

“You can’t really promise me that,” she laughed through tears, “but hearing you say it, makes me believe it.”

 

“Believe it,” he assured, “I’d move heaven and earth to be with you. I love you with everything in me, Paula.  You are my heart and soul.”

 

“And you’re mine,” she sniffed, “Maybe we can just grow really old together and then hold hands and say ‘One, two, three…Die’, and go together.”

 

“I like that plan,” he kissed her, “Maybe that’s exactly what we’ll do.”

 

~*~

 

Paula glanced out the window in the kitchen. Rob’s blue truck was coming down the lane. The boys were out playing in the snow, and started throwing snowballs at his truck as he approached. She began setting the table, waiting for them to all come rushing in. The back door opened and she heard them all tromping into the laundry room, including Rob. After several minutes, they trailed in, cheeks rosy from the cold, all laughing and jostling.

 

“Supper’s ready, Guys. Get cleaned up,” Paula announced, “Hi, Sweetheart.”

 

“Hey, Baby,” Rob hugged and kissed her, “Mmm, you made chili, huh? Good idea.”

 

“Did they bomb you too bad?” She asked.

 

“Not any worse than I got them,” he chuckled, “Glad I changed clothes before I left work.”

 

“How was work?” She began spooning chili into bowls, “Did you tell them your answer?”

“I couldn’t,” he started carrying the bowls to the table for her, “None of them made it to work today! Can you believe that? I have the farthest to come by a long shot, and I made it in.  But none of the partners made it to the office at all.”

 

“You weren’t the only one there, were you?” She found it hard to believe.

 

“No,” he shook his head, “Mark and Paul made it, and so did Sandy and Lisa.”

 

“That’s all?” She was incredulous.

 

“Just us,” he nodded, “Come on, Boys! Dinner’s on the table.”

 

~*~

 

The sun was starting to melt the snow the next day and Paula was just about to tell the boys to break for lunch.

 

“That’s Dad’s truck,” Jason announced, pointing out the window.

 

“It’s too early,” Keith argued.

 

“It is him,” Kevin ran to look.

 

“Boys,” Paula had a bad feeling, “Don’t rush all over him when he comes in. Something must be wrong. Just tell him hello and then leave us for a few minutes. I’ll get lunch ready as soon as I can.”

 

“OK, Mom,” Jason agreed.

 

It was several minutes before Rob walked in. The look on his face confirmed Paula’s fears. Sam, who stayed inside when it was cold, went to greet him while he hung his coat.

 

“Hi, Sam,” Rob reached down to pet him, “Hi, Boys. I need to talk to your mother.”

 

“Hi, Dad,” they all spoke and filed out obediently, heading to their room.

 

Paula went to him, “Hi, Honey. What’s wrong?”

 

Instead of the usual kiss, he swept her into his arms and held her tightly, “I think I messed up.”

 

“Messed up?” She asked, “How? Come here, sit down and tell me what happened.”

 

“They all made it in today,” he followed her to the sofa and sat next to her, “So I told them I had an answer for them.”

 

“And?” She had one hand on his shoulder, the other holding his hand.

 

“They didn’t like my answer,” he told her, “They told me to go ahead and pack up and come home.”

 

“They fired you?” Paula gasped, “After all these years? All you’ve done for them? Here you are the only one that even made it in yesterday, and they can’t even let you work out your contract?”

 

“Pretty much,” he looked her in the eye, “I guess I should have waited to tell them.”

 

“Well,” Paula comforted, “It was only two more months, anyway.”

 

“Two more months of income,” he corrected. “Now we don’t have anything coming in. We don’t have any boarders yet. It’s impossible to give lessons in this weather…”

 

“Hey,” she kissed his cheek, “We’ll be fine. We’ve got a pretty good nest egg put back. The freezer’s full of beef and chicken and corn and beans. We’ve got fresh eggs every day. Don’t worry, we’re not going to starve.”

 

“Property taxes are due,” he moaned, “We may not have much of a Christmas.”

 

“Rob,” she was using her firm voice, “When do I start Christmas shopping for the boys?”

 

He gave her a wry smile, “As soon as their birthdays are over.”

 

“Then don’t worry about Christmas,” she told him, “It’s already basically done. You know I try to finish my shopping before Thanksgiving.”

 

“We’re going to really have to cut corners, Paula,” he warned.

 

“I understand, Honey,” she reassured, “Don’t worry. We’ll be fine. Now, come on, let’s work on lunch together, OK?”

 

~*~

 

Sam went to the door to greet Mitch as he let himself in. The smell of vegetable soup wafted through the air as he came into the kitchen.

 

“Where is everybody?” He asked.

 

“Well,” Paula looked out the window, “they were out in the stable. I’m surprised they didn’t swarm you when you drove up. How are you today?”

 

“I’m fine,” he lifted the lid on the pot, “Smells good. So, what’s up? When Dad calls in the middle of the day and says be here for supper, I’m guessing something’s wrong. He didn’t exactly invite me. It was more like a summons.”

 

“Sorry, Mitch,” she patted his shoulder, “I’m sure he didn’t mean it to sound that way. He just wants to have everyone here tonight to talk about the stable business.”

 

“Why so urgent?” He started getting bowls out of the cabinet for her.

 

“Because he lost his job today,” she frowned, “He told them he didn’t want the partnership and they told him to leave now.”

 

“You’re kidding!” He gasped, “That’s awful.”

 

“Here they come,” she looked out again, “Just leave the bowls here and I’ll dip it up in the kitchen.”

 

~*~

 

The food had been blessed and they were all eating when Rob started the discussion, “Well, the first thing we need to do is come up with a name for our stable.  Does anybody have any ideas?”

 

“I guess the military might frown on us calling it Ft. Jackson, huh?” Paula laughed.

 

“I don’t think Fort anything would go over well,” Mitch shook his head, “Why not just Jackson’s Stable?”

 

“You’re name’s not Jackson, though,” Kevin argued.

 

“Well,” he shrugged, “it’s not my stable.”

 

“It’s all of ours,” Keith told him, “So if we use a name we have to use everyone’s.”

 

“Too many names,” Jason said, “We need to just use letters. Like R&P, for Rob and Paula.”

 

“Well,” Keith argued, “Then it’s got to be R&P&M&J&K&K.”

 

“That sounds more like alphabet soup,” Mitch teased.

 

“How about J&M?” Kevin posed, “For Jackson and Martin. That gets everyone.”

 

“I like it,” Rob nodded, “What do you think, Paula?”

“Sounds good,” Paula agreed, “Mitch?”

 

“You sure you want to give me equal billing on this thing?”

 

“Why wouldn’t we?” Rob asked, “I’m about to ask you if we can use your horses for lessons?”

 

“OK,” he chuckled, “J&M it is, then. And yes, you can use my horses.”

 

“Are you going to use our horses, Mom?” Jason asked.

 

“Well,” she started down the list, “I can’t possibly use Dancer. She’s too skittish for beginners. Besides, I’m thinking of breeding her. But I can use Buttermilk. What about your horses? They’re certainly calm enough. How do you boys feel about me using them?”

 

“They’re all old, too,” Rob interjected. “None of them could be used much.”

 

“Ginger’s not that old,” Jason offered. “She’s just 20. You can use her all you want.”

 

“Buckshot’s almost 30,” Keith said, “But he’s still a really good horse. I don’t mind if you use him.”

 

“Same with Chief,” Kevin agreed, “If he gets tired, he just stops.”

 

“I’m thinking that pair would be really good for little kids that aren’t used to horses,” Paula reflected. “They’re dog gentle and they’re small. Don’t you think, Rob?”

 

“Yes,” he nodded, “Buttermilk’s in her 20’s now, too. I was thinking I might see about bringing ButterScotch down. He belongs to me, you know.”

 

“He’d be good,” Paula agreed.

 

“Both of mine are pretty laid back and they’re still young,” Mitch reported, “Cheyenne is 12 and Dakota is 10.”

 

He was referring to his pair of Paint horses. Cheyenne was a beautiful black and white mare. Dakota a striking sorrel and white gelding.

 

“I think that’s a good place to start,” Rob decided, “If we need more, then that means we’ll be making enough money to buy more. We can’t do much for lessons in this kind of weather, anyway. It’ll be spring before we can do much there. I’m thinking we could offer trail rides, too.”

 

“Good idea,” Mitch agreed.

 

“We could help with that!” Jason volunteered.

 

“Yes,” Rob agreed, “You sure could.”

 

“We need an indoor arena,” Mitch remarked. “Then weather wouldn’t be an issue.”

 

“Well,” Rob gave him a wry look, “When you find a big pile of money laying around, let me know and we’ll build one.”

 

Mitch sighed, “Sorry. No money piles around my place either. I will keep my eyes and ears open for more good lesson and trail horses. I’ll also spread the word about the stable.”

 

“Rob,” Paula suggested, “Why don’t you make up some fliers and business cards. You can post the fliers around town and Mitch could carry some cards with him in case someone’s interested. That won’t cause problems with Doc, will it?”

 

“No,” Mitch assured, “I told him yesterday about the stable and he thought it was great. His is full anyway and keeping it staffed is such a headache, I think he’d just as soon close it down. He did say we could work a deal out for me to do the vet work. Something like cost plus ten percent—like he does for employees. At least for our horses anyway.”

 

“I need to remember to hug him for that!” Paula smiled, “Rob, while we’re waiting for business to show up, go ahead and design an indoor arena.”

 

“Why?” He gave her an incredulous look.

 

“You can start teaching the boys how to design,” she explained, “And if we ever get the chance to build it, we’ll already have the plans.”

 

He gave her a look that said he thought it was a waste of time.

 

“Believe, Honey,” she blew a kiss across the table at him, “Just believe.”

 

“I’ll get you some red slippers and you can click your heels together, Dad,” Mitch teased.

 

Rob ignored him, his eyes locked with hers, “OK, Sweetheart, if you say so. We’ll start the design work this week for school.”

 

~*~

 

Paula finished loading the dishwasher and started it. She was heading to the living room to be with all the guys, when she heard Mitch and Rob talking.

 

“That was really weird, Dad,” Mitch was saying, “When she told you to just believe and you fell under her spell, or whatever.”

 

“In case you haven’t noticed,” Rob chuckled, “I’m always under her spell. I’ve learned that when she says something like that, it’s better not to argue or question it. Just because it doesn’t make sense to me, doesn’t mean she doesn’t have a reason.”

 

“What do you mean?” Mitch asked.

 

“Well,” he expounded, “Like a while back she asked me out of the blue if I’d build a hot walker with the boys for a school project. Now, here we are about to start a stable and we’ll need it. Sometimes it’s like she has a sixth sense about things. She feels things coming or something.”

 

“That women’s intuition thing?” Mitch wondered, “Well, it’s still weird.”

 

“Maybe,” Rob shrugged, “But I trust her. You just wait…you’ll fall under some girl’s spell some day.”

 

“In case you haven’t noticed, Dad,” Mitch informed, “I would’ve fallen under hers, if it weren’t for you.”

 

Paula wondered what kind of look Rob gave Mitch after that comment. She stayed put and listened.

 

“She’s a little old for you,” Rob replied, “Don’t you think?”

 

“I wouldn’t let that stand in my way,” Mitch confessed.

 

“Just as long as you let me stand in your way,” Rob’s voice was getting stern, “That’s all I need to know.”

 

“Oh,” Mitch reported, “Don’t worry. That’s history. I really do think of her like my mom, now. But when I first met her…Well, let’s just say I would’ve been more than happy to take her off your hands.”

 

“So maybe what I walked in on that day wasn’t so innocent after all?”

Rob questioned.

 

“It was on her part, I assure you,” Mitch was honest, “But not on mine. What can I say? We have the same taste in women. Imagine that.”

 

Paula decided enough had been said, so she entered the room, “What are you two talking about so intently? And where are the boys? I thought they were in here with you.”

 

“I sent them upstairs with an assignment,” Rob answered, looking up from where he sat in the floor, “They were all bouncing ideas around for the arena, so I told them to each go write down their own list and make their own sketch. Tomorrow we’ll compare notes and start the design.”

 

“Wow, you didn’t waste any time,” she sat down next to him, “I’m impressed.”

 

“I wanted to capitalize on their enthusiasm,” he explained, “Seize the moment.”

 

Mitch was also sitting in the floor, watching her intently. Sam was laying next to him, reveling in the attention he was getting.

 

“So,” Paula decided to push a little, “What were you two talking about?”

 

Rob put his arm around her and pulled her close, “You, my dear.”

 

“Me?” Paula wondered how much he’d disclose, “What about me?”

 

“It seems I need to keep a close eye on my eldest son,” Rob was an honest man by nature, “Or he might snatch you away from me.”

 

Paula smiled, put her arms around his neck and kissed him, “If you don’t know by now that there isn’t another man on earth who could snatch me away from you, then I don’t know how I could convince you.”

 

“Do you know how jealous I am of you two?” Mitch commented. “Man, what I wouldn’t give to have what you have.”

 

“I used to feel that way,” Paula turned back to face him, “When I watched your great grandparents together, I thought the same thing. They were just like two puzzle pieces that fit together to make a perfect picture.”

 

“That’s a pretty good description of you and Dad,” Mitch reflected.

 

“It’ll happen, Mitch,” Paula assured. “Just don’t rush it. She’s out there. Wait for her. She’ll show up when the time is right.”

 

“How can you be so sure?” He wondered.

 

Paula moved over to sit in front of Rob and leaned back against his chest. He wrapped his arms around her and listened as she advised his son.

 

“You know, Mitch,” she told him, “I used to ride the rodeo circuit. I met a lot of cowboys that way. Most of them were really nice. A lot of them were really fun. Some of them were pretty cute, even handsome. Several of them were sexy. A few of them were even smart. But that was all.

 

“There wasn’t anything there,” she continued, “I just kept looking for that missing ingredient. The one I saw between your great grandparents.”

 

“So what happened?” Mitch leaned forward.

 

“I met your father,” Paula answered, “Before I even knew his name, I knew I wanted to marry him. Nothing else…no one else…even existed in that moment. It was like fitting those two puzzle pieces together and getting to see the picture.”

 

“Love at first sight, huh?” Mitch raised his eyebrows, “Thought that was just in the movies.”

 

“Now you know better,” Rob spoke, “Because I felt the same way when I saw her. After being with her, when I went back to St. Louis, I tossed my cigarettes, dumped my liquor and shut the door on all the other women I knew. I had no interest in anyone else. There were several other women I’d been seeing off and on, and they kept calling and coming over. I just kept turning them away. As far as I was concerned, they didn’t even exist anymore.”

 

“Well,” Mitch gave a half smile, “I definitely understand what you saw in her…but I’m not sure why she was so swept away by you.”

 

“I was younger then,” Rob defended.

 

“It was what I felt,” she told them, “It’s what I still feel when I’m with him. For the first time in my life, I felt complete.”

 

~*~

 

The days passed, a bitter cold wind blowing rain, ice or snow during most of them. Rob helped with school. They all helped make Christmas presents. Paula helped keep spirits up.

 

“Do you think Chelsea will still get to come?” Jason asked, looking out the window at the blowing snow.

 

“I hope so,” Paula was baking cookies, “It sure is bad weather for this early in the winter. We usually don’t get this until January or February.”

 

Rob came into the kitchen, “I just got off the phone with Terry. Chelsea called. She’s stranded in Denver.”

 

“Oh no!” Paula cried, “Is she going to make it here?”

 

“She’s trying to get a flight into St. Louis now,” he reported, “Then my folks can pick her up. I guess the airports in Tulsa and Springfield are both shut down right now. St. Louis is still up and running at the moment, so maybe she can get there.”

 

“Poor Chelsea,” Paula frowned, “She won’t want to come visit again after all this.”

 

“I hope she brought a coat this time,” Jason commented.

 

“Do you think your dad will be OK to drive down in this?” Paula asked.

 

“He’ll be fine,” Rob nodded, “If it’s too bad, I’ll drive the Jeep up and get them all.”

 

The phone started ringing and Rob grabbed it, “Hello? She did? OK…Good…Let me know if you need me, OK? All right, bye.”

 

“Terry?” Paula guessed.

 

“Yes,” he nodded, “She’s going to St. Louis. She’ll be fine now.”

 

~*~

 

The snow had stopped and the roads were clear on Christmas Eve. Bill, Sally and Chelsea were on their way down. The house was bustling with activity.

 

Mitch walked in and inhaled, “Mmm. Is that gingerbread I smell?”

 

“Yeah,” Kevin answered from the mantle he was decorating, “Mom’s making cookies.”

 

“Hey, Son,” Rob walked in, carrying a big box, “There’s another box just like this upstairs. Can you bring it down?”

 

“Where upstairs?” Mitch headed up, “Oh…you mean this one?”

 

“That’s the one,” Rob called back.

 

“Honey,” Paula called from the kitchen, “Can you come here for a second?”

 

“Yes,” Rob stuck his head around the corner.

 

“I’ve been thinking,” Paula reported, “We’d better prepare for more people to stay here.”

 

“Excuse me?” He gave her a quizzical look.

 

“Well,” she clarified, “Chelsea’s not used to cold weather and Terry only has the one wood stove and the other gas stove. His bedrooms have no heat at all…”

 

“Oh,” Rob understood, “Maybe we should invite her to stay here where there’s heat, you mean?”

 

“Yes,” Paula nodded, “So we need to rearrange the study so the couch in there can be folded out into a bed.”

 

“OK,” he agreed, “I’ll get Mitch to help me move things around. I guess we’ll put my folks in the guest room?”

 

“Yes,” she was icing cookies, “I think so. Is the couch in the living room clear so it can be folded out if we need to?”

 

“Well, we won’t need both of them,” he told her.

 

“Is it?”

 

“I’ll be sure it is,” he kissed her, “I should just go with this, right?”

 

“Right,” she dabbed icing on his nose and he laughed.

 

“Does that make me a gingerbread man?” He grabbed her.

 

“Let me see,” she licked the icing off and shook her head, “No, still my husband.”

 

~*~

 

“Grandma & Grandpa are here!” Jason announced.

 

“Which ones?” Keith ran to the door, “Oh!”

 

“Well?” Kevin came to look for himself and saw Paula’s parents getting out of their black Dodge truck.

 

“Help them in, Boys,” Paula called.

 

They all clamored out and assisted them with the bags and sacks that needed to come in. Clay and Hazel were older than Rob’s parents, having married later in life. Hazel was starting to get feeble and Paula worried when she got out on ice and snow. She always had visions of a broken hip or arm. Clay was still steady though, and she worried less about him.

 

“Rob,” Paula summoned him to the kitchen again.

 

“At your service,” he teased.

 

“Have you got plenty of wood cut?” She wondered. Their furnace used wood to heat both the house and their water.

 

“Oh yeah,” he nodded, “We’re in good shape, why?”

 

“I just don’t want you to have to stop and split wood while everyone’s here,” she explained. “Do we have plenty of fuel in the big tank for the generator? Are the kerosene lamps all ready, just in case?”

 

He looked at her for a moment, then came over and took her in his arms, “We’re prepared for anything short of nuclear holocaust. Don’t worry. I’ve had plenty of time on my hands lately. If everyone ends up staying here, we’re ready.”

 

“I’m sorry, Sweetheart,” she cuddled into him, “I just feel it coming. I feel it in my bones, you know?”

 

“I know you do,” he kissed her, “I got that message loud and clear when you mentioned the extra couch earlier. Anybody and everybody can stay as long as necessary.”

 

“Thanks, Honey,” she looked into his eyes, “I hope I’m wrong this time.”

 

“Me too,” he confessed, “But you’ve never been wrong so far.”

 

“Can I do anything?” Hazel came in.

 

“Hi, Mother,” Paula pulled away from Rob, “No. Everything is done in here. I was just coming out to see how the boys are doing with the decorations.”

 

“Terry’s here,” Jason announced. “He’s by himself.”

 

“He said he told Mom and Dad to come straight to our place,” Rob informed.

 

The living room had been transformed into a winter wonderland with the festive tree and garland strung everywhere. There were presents of all shapes and sizes around the tree and empty stockings hung on the mantle.

 

Terry walked in to a loud array of greetings and questions. He sent the boys out to carry in presents from his Suburban.

 

“Dad called from his cell phone,” he told Rob and Paula, “They’re almost here. He said the roads are clear. I told him my lane is worse than yours, so he may not be able to get to my house at all.”

 

“We thought Chelsea might prefer to stay here anyway,” Paula told him, “Since it’s so cold. Does she have a coat this time?”

“Mom bought her one for Christmas,” Terry laughed, “She took it to the airport for her!”

 

“They’re here!” Jason declared, carrying in the last package.

 

Everyone looked to see the Buick creeping down the drive. The boys all rushed back out, Mitch and Terry with them this time.

 

“You two doing OK?” Rob asked the Curtis’ as they waited for the troop to return.

 

“Oh yeah,” Clay had grown fond of his son-in-law, “I could do without all this snow, though.”

 

“You and me both,” Rob agreed, “But no one asked my opinion on the matter.”

 

“Funny,” Clay shook his head, “They didn’t ask me either.”

 

The door opened and chaos burst in, the boys all loaded down with packages and talking simultaneously. Chelsea came in, wearing a new down coat and a beautiful smile.

 

“Uncle Rob!” She hugged him, “Aunt Paula! I’m so glad to finally be here!”

 

“We’re glad you made it, Honey,” Paula took her coat, “These are my parents, Hazel and Clay Curtis. This is Chelsea.”

 

“Hello,” Hazel nodded.

 

“Well,” Clay hugged her, “I never turn down a chance to hug a pretty girl.”

 

Bill and Sally finally emerged and they all exchanged hugs and greetings, as well. Paula noticed that Sally looked a little pale and even thinner this time.

 

“You OK, Sally?” Paula asked.

 

“Oh, yes,” Sally shrugged, “Just a little tired. This old age thing is for the birds. Can I help with anything?”

 

“Everything’s done,” Paula assured, “Just enjoy!”

 

~*~

 

Over the years, the Jackson clan had developed a tradition of gathering on Christmas Eve to sing carols, open a few little presents and eat a buffet of finger foods. Then, on Christmas morning, Paula would make a big breakfast and they would all open the rest of their gifts after that. It was usually mid afternoon before everyone was ready to eat again, and she tried to have a ham or turkey ready and waiting.

 

They were all gathered in the living room, singing carols when the lights went out. Jason immediately whipped out his new flashlight so everyone could see.

 

“Good thing I already opened this!” Jason laughed.

 

“What happened?” Chelsea asked.

 

“We’ve lost power, Honey,” Terry told her, “Don’t worry. If it’s not back on soon, they have a generator.”

 

“Come on, Boys,” Rob got up, “Let’s get the lamps going for right now.”

 

They followed and began lighting the kerosene lamps that were always mounted on the walls, one to each room of the house. Mitch went along with them, carrying Jason’s flashlight. Chelsea watched, her eyes wide in wonder.

 

“I can’t believe how much light they give off,” she observed, “I always thought people had to strain to see back in the days before electricity. No wonder they could read without a problem. These lamps are wonderful.”

 

“When you live in the sticks,” Paula grinned, “You learn to be prepared for this kind of thing. We’re out of power for days on end sometimes.”

 

Kevin came back in carrying a radio, “They said the whole area is out of power right now. Some major transformer blew up. It could be out for a while.”

 

“Oh no!” Chelsea worried.

 

“Don’t fret,” Terry told her, “You can stay here.”

 

“Everyone can stay here,” Rob came back in, “I’ll go start the generator…Terry, you want to come give me a hand?”

 

“I’ll come too, Dad,” Mitch followed, “I guess I need to buy a generator for my place, huh?”

 

“They sure come in handy,” Rob reflected as they headed out.

 

~*~

 

When the generator kicked in, the lights came back on. The boys immediately jumped up and started turning them off.

 

“Why are they doing that?” Chelsea asked.

 

“To conserve power,” Paula explained, “We can use the lamps for light, so the generator can power the well, the water pump and blower for the furnace, the freezer, the fridge, the water heaters for the livestock…”

 

“Oh,” Chelsea nodded, “I see. So do you have room for everyone to stay here?”

 

“Sure,” Paula told her, “Tell you what, why don’t you and Sally come give me a hand with linens for the hide-a-beds.”

 

~*~

 

Everyone decided to stay except Terry. He insisted on driving home to check on his own place and start his own generator.

 

“I’ll be back first thing in the morning,” he hugged his daughter, “You’re definitely better off here, though. My house is never this warm. Paula, do you need me to bring anything over in the morning?”

 

“I can’t think of anything,” she shook her head, “I’ll call if I do.”

 

“Be careful going home,” Rob cautioned, “Let me know if you run into any problems at your place and need a hand.”

 

“OK,” Terry left, “Goodnight.”

 

~*~

 

Rob blew the lamp out and climbed into bed next to Paula, “Guess you were right again. Glad I listened to you and had everything prepared.”

 

“I wish I’d been wrong this time,” she snuggled up to him, “But it’s kind of nice having everyone all gathered up here, too. I wish Terry would have stayed.”

 

“He wanted to get his generator going for his stock,” Rob told her, “I can understand that. Hey, Baby…”

 

“Yes, Sweetheart,” she looked up at him.

 

“I have to tell you something,” he kissed her, “I don’t want you to be disappointed tomorrow. I’m sorry, Honey, but there’s nothing under the tree for you from me.”

 

“That’s OK,” she dismissed it.

 

“I had great intentions,” he went on, “but it all fell through when I lost my job. Can I tell you what I was going to do for you?”

 

“Yes,” she kissed his chest, “Tell me.”

 

“I had it all arranged with Mitch,” he declared, “He was going to take a week off work and stay with the boys, so you and I could go to Myrtle Beach.”

 

“A whole week?” She gasped with glee, “Oh, how wonderful, Honey! Thank you!”

 

“Don’t thank me,” he moaned, “I can’t do it now.”

 

She reached up and kissed him passionately, “It was a splendid idea, Honey. Thank you for thinking of it. Just the idea makes me happy. I love you so much.”

 

“I just wish I could still take you,” he pulled her close, “I’m sorry about all this. I hate letting you down.”

 

“Oh, Honey,” she consoled, “You’ve never let me down. Not once, as long as I’ve known you. I’d rather have you here with us all the time, than just have you to myself for one week. You’re here, Rob. That’s all the present I need from you.”

 

“I love you,” he kissed her, “With all my heart, mind, body and soul…I love you.”

 

~*~

 

Terry made it back in time for breakfast Christmas morning and reported that the highway was clear, but that the other roads were treacherous. He had brought along his sleeping bag and air mattress in case he decided to spend the night. The ladies all pitched in to clear away the dishes, so everyone could adjourn to the living room and open the rest of the presents. As soon as they got settled in, Jason and the twins started passing out presents. After they were distributed, the opening ceremonies commenced.

 

Since Chelsea was considered a special guest, she was chosen to go first. After opening yet another sweater, laughing, she came to an envelope.

 

“Hmm, what’s this?” She opened it to find a photo of a beautiful black horse, “Who’s this from? I don’t understand…”

 

“It’s from me, Honey,” Terry confessed, “And his name is Charcoal. He’s as gentle as a puppy and he’s at my farm. You can leave him there, or bring him here, or take him to St. Louis, or I’ll drive him to San Diego for you. He’s all yours.”

 

“Oh, Dad!” She squealed and ran to hug him, “I always wanted my own horse! Oh, thank you, Daddy!”

 

“OK, Mitch,” Rob declared, “You’re next. Start on your pile.”

 

Mitch’s pile consisted mostly of flannel shirts and sweaters and an envelope, as well. He opened it to find a note.

 

He read it aloud, “To Mitch from Grandma and Grandpa. The saddle of your choice.”

 

“We thought you’d rather pick out your own,” Bill explained.

 

“Thank you,” he smiled, “I could use a new saddle. Mine is getting pretty ragged.”

 

“A little bird told us that,” Sally confessed.

 

“Mmm,” Mitch looked at his father, “My guess is it was more like a big bird.”

 

Rob laughed, “Jason, you go next.”

 

After making his way through several flannel shirts and sweaters, he came to two envelopes, “OK…I’ll open this one first…It’s from Grandma and Grandpa Curtis…it says ‘A saddle and bridle of your choice’! Wow! Thanks! Mitch, we can go shopping together! This one is from Grandma and Grandpa Jackson…Hey! This is a picture of Sassy!”

 

“That’s right, Jason,” Bill told him, as he looked at the photo of the sorrel mare, “You always ride her when you visit and that’s the only time she ever gets much attention. We thought she’d like to come live with you. We’ll get her down here as soon as the weather clears up.”

 

“Wow!” Jason ran to hug them, “She’ll be a good lesson horse, too! She’s real gentle. Thanks!”

 

“Can I go next, Dad?” Keith asked.

 

“Yes,” Rob nodded.

 

Keith plowed quickly through his gifts of clothing until he came to a box from Grandma and Grandpa Jackson. He ripped it open to find a halter and lead rope with a photo of a buckskin gelding.

 

“This is Butterfingers!” He exclaimed, “Are you giving me Butterfingers?”

 

“Buckshot’s getting old,” Sally told him, “We thought maybe it was time you got another horse.”

 

“Wow!” He exclaimed, “Thanks! We can use him for lessons, too!”

 

“Here,” Rob handed him an envelope, “You missed this.”

 

“Oh no!” Keith tore it open, “Hey! I get a new saddle too! Thanks!” He ran to hug the Curtis’.

 

Kevin started on his pile next and made his way to the envelope from the Curtis’, “I get a saddle too! We can all go shopping together! Thanks! And here’s my box from Grandma and Grandpa Jackson…Peanut Butter! They’re giving me Peanut Butter!”

 

He showed everyone the picture of the sorrel gelding with a flaxen mane and tail, and held up his lead rope and halter. Rob was sitting across the room from Paula and he looked at her in awe. She smiled back at him.

 

“Rob,” Paula suggested, “Let my folks go next, then yours, OK?”

 

“Sounds like a plan,” he agreed and they all watched the grandparents open the homemade cookies and candies that Paula had put together. Then there were birdhouses and feeders the boys had made.

 

“You go next, Dad,” Mitch requested.

 

“OK,” he conceded, first opening the gifts the boys had made him. Paper weights, desk organizers and pencil holders bearing the name of their new stable. He then found a box at his side, “This one is to both of us, Paula. Come and help me, Honey. It’s from your folks…Well, I think we’re in good shape for lead ropes and halters now!” He dumped out a box full of just that and laughed.

 

“Can’t have too many if you’re running a stable,” Clay pointed out.

 

“Let’s see,” he opened an envelope, “This is from Terry…All right! All the hay I need for a year! Thanks, Bro!”

 

“You’re going to need it with all these horses you’re accumulating today!” Terry teased.

 

“Here’s one from Mom and Dad,” he pulled out a picture of a palomino gelding, “ButterScotch! I guess it would be nit-picking to point out that he’s already mine.”

 

“Yes,” Bill chuckled, “It would.”

 

“Here, Dad,” Mitch handed him another envelope, “This is from me.”

 

Rob opened it and read, “One weekend of your choice without the boys…Thanks, Mitch…I…”

 

“I know, Dad,” Mitch shrugged, “But I figure they could at least stay at my place and you two could have this place to yourselves.”

 

“Thank you, Son,” Rob nodded, “We both appreciate it.”

 

“This is from me,” Paula handed him an envelope, fighting back tears, “I love you, Honey.”

 

He opened it and found a sheet of paper with a poem typed on it. He read it silently, tears welling up in his eyes. He carefully folded it, put it in his pocket and kissed her.

 

“I love you too, Honey,” he said softly, then to everyone else, “Sorry, I’m not reading that out loud. It’s a poem she wrote for me. That’s all you need to know.”

 

“Can my dad go next?” Chelsea broke the silence.

 

“Yes, Terry,” Rob nodded, “your turn.”

 

He waded through the flannel shirts and gloves until he found a box from Chelsea, “You know, just you being here was my present, Honey…What’s this?”

 

He held up a set of keys, “OK, I’m confused.”

 

“It’s not just from me, Dad,” Chelsea confessed, “but I picked it out. It’s in St. Louis, so you’ll have to ride back with us to get it.”

 

“OK, what’s ‘it’?” Terry asked.

 

“It,” Bill told him, “is a new truck. I think you need one.”

 

Terry was silent. Everyone was silent.

 

Finally, Chelsea spoke, “You’ll love it, Dad. It’s perfect for you. Trust me.”

 

“I do!” He got up and hugged her, “I’m just in shock, that’s all.”

 

“Paula,” Rob looked at her, “You’re the last one.”

 

Paula began opening the gifts her boys had made her, savoring each one and hugging them in turn. Then she came to an envelope from Mitch. She opened it to find a picture of a beautiful black and white leopard spot Appaloosa.

 

“Who’s this?” She asked.

 

“That’s Freckles,” Mitch told her, “He’s a gelding, no papers, about 15 years old. I got called out to work on his feet. He was foundered something awful. Used to belong to a little boy, but when he got tired of him, they put him out to pasture and neglected him. When I told them what it would cost to get him back in shape, they didn’t want to put the money into him. They said they’d send him to the glue factory. I told them I’d take him and work on him, if they’d let me keep him. He’s at Doc’s barn. He’s already walking around almost normal. By spring, he’ll be good as new. He’s just a big old baby. I thought you might like him.”

 

“I love him!” Paula hugged him. “Thank you, Mitch.”

 

“Here’s another one,” Rob handed her an envelope from his parents.

 

“Let’s see,” she opened it to find a picture of a bay mare, “This is Cowgirl! Bill, Sally! You’ve given us all your horses! Are you sure you want to do this?”

 

“Yes, Honey,” Bill hugged her, “If we don’t have horses to look after, we can come visit a lot more and stay for a while. We may even make a trip to visit our grand daughter in California!”

 

“Thank you,” Paula said, “I think this is the best Christmas we’ve ever had, don’t you Rob?”

 

“Yes, I do.”

 

~*~

 

Chelsea offered to help Paula clean up in the kitchen after they had a big meal from the turkey Doc had given to Mitch and a ham that Terry had provided. Everyone else went to visit and do farm chores, so they were left to themselves in the kitchen.

 

“Did Mitch tell you what Uncle Rob wanted to give you for Christmas?” Chelsea asked.

 

“No,” Paula smiled, “Rob told me, himself.”

 

“It broke his heart that he couldn’t do it, you know,” Chelsea observed, “He’s so devoted to you. It’s killing him that he can’t give you everything he thinks you deserve.”

 

“I know,” Paula confessed, “And it doesn’t matter how many times I tell him that things aren’t important to me. He still wants to do it. Having him home is all I want or need, but he feels like that’s not enough.”

 

“I can’t believe they just fired him like that,” Chelsea reflected, “He’d been there for years, hadn’t he?”

 

“Yes, he had,” Paula nodded, “Over 14 years, actually.”

 

“You must be worried,” Chelsea supposed, “This is a bad time of year to be without income.”

 

“No, I’m not worried,” Paula told her truthfully.

 

“Why not?”

 

“Well,” Paula explained, “First of all, it’s not my place in this family to worry. Second of all, I trust Rob to take care of us, no matter what. And last of all, I believe everything happens for a reason. You know, if Rob had been working, he wouldn’t have been around here cutting wood, getting the generator out and ready to hook up to the big fuel tank…all those things that got us prepared for this power outage.”

 

Chelsea was looking at her in amazement, “Do you always put such a positive spin on everything? No wonder Uncle Rob thinks the sun rises and sets in you…for him, I bet it really does.”

 

“Believe me, I’m not perfect, Chelsea,” Paula assured, “But I see no reason to worry. It wouldn’t change anything if I did. It certainly wouldn’t help anything. We’ve got plenty of food in the freezer. We won’t starve. Rob’s always been good about putting money back for a rainy day, so we’ve got a nice cushion to rest on. And I know the bottom line is, he’ll do whatever he has to in order to take care of me and the boys.”

 

“Have you considered getting a job?” She wondered.

 

“He wouldn’t want me to,” Paula shook her head, “He wants me home with the boys. That’s my place in this family.”

 

“Here I am, interrupting you ladies again,” Rob came in, wrapping his arms around Paula, “At least I didn’t scare you this time.”

 

“Did you get all the chores done?” Paula asked, kissing him.

 

“Yes,” he nodded, “And Terry wanted me to tell Chelsea he’s going home to check on his stock. He wondered if she might like to ride along and meet her horse?”

 

“Oh yes!” She tore off the apron and headed out.

 

“Chelsea,” Paula called, “Take my old coat and Muck boots out of the laundry room…you’ll ruin yours over there.”

 

“OK, thanks!” Chelsea replied, heading to grab them.

 

“She helped you wash dishes,” Rob observed, “That was sweet of her. I think she likes it here, don’t you?”

 

“Yes, I do,” Paula put her arms around his neck, “Merry Christmas, Honey. I don’t think I’ve said that yet today.”

 

“Merry Christmas,” he kissed her deeply, “Thank you for the poem. I didn’t think you wanted me to share that with everyone.”

 

“You’re welcome,” she smiled, “But you can share it with anyone you like. I’m not ashamed of my feelings for you. I think everyone around here knows I live and breathe to please you.”

 

“And you do please me,” he kissed her again, “Always.”

 

“I didn’t think I should buy you anything this year. I thought you’d want me save the money for necessities. I hope that was all right.”

 

“You couldn’t have given me anything better,” he confirmed, “I just wish I could put my feelings for you into words as eloquently as you do. I do have something to show you, though.”

 

“What is it?” She asked.

 

“The boys and I finished the design for the indoor arena,” he announced, “Come to the study and I’ll show it to you.”

 

She followed him and he pulled out a blueprint to explain to her, “Here it is. These are stalls along each side, ten to a side. In this end, we have big doors you could drive a bulldozer through if you needed to. Here’s a small office area on this side and opposite is a tack room. Above the stalls we created a loft area to keep hay and anything else we might need to store. These are sky lights to let in the most possible light during the day.”

 

“What’s this?” Paula had learned to read blueprints fairly well over the years, but this was something she didn’t recognize.

 

“That,” he chuckled, “is just an idea in the making. Jason and I are working on a design to open and close the sky lights, so we can keep too much sun out when it’s really hot. It’s just my own little notation to remind myself about it.”

 

“And what’s this space back here?” She pointed to the back of the arena.

 

“That was Kevin and Keith’s idea,” he bragged, “We’re putting an apartment along the back end of the arena. It could be for guests or for the boys when they get older or for an employee who helped with the stable…all sorts of potential there. We might even just rent it out. We still need to finish the details on that.”

 

“Wow,” she remarked, “I’m impressed. Sounds like they really helped, too. Have you shown this to anyone else?”

 

“No,” he shook his head, “I wanted you to see it first. Do you really like it?”

 

“I love it,” she kissed his cheek.

 

“Who knows if we’ll ever get to use it,” he sighed, “But the boys had fun and I was able to show them a lot. It was a good simple design to start showing them basics with.  I think Keith has a real talent for it.”

 

“Well,” she reminded, “He says that’s what he wants to be. Even if he changes his mind later on, it can’t possibly hurt him to learn all he can now.”

 

“I think Jason’s going to be an inventor,” Rob laughed, “He’s got all sorts of ideas for little gizmos. Some of them are pretty good, too.”

 

“Rob,” Paula suggested, “Why don’t you really finish this plan off? I bet there’s a market for plans like this on the Internet! You could alter it several different ways and come up with several versions pretty easily. You know, like without the apartment, or use that space for more stalls or bleacher seats or storage…”

 

“You think people would buy it?” He asked.

 

“Why not?” She posed, “There’s a market for just about everything on the Internet. We could have our own web-site and you could sell plans for arenas and barns and stables that way. You could even do custom designs. You might even be able to sell your plans for the homemade hot walker you and the boys built. What do you think?”

 

“Well, I don’t know,” he confessed, “I never thought about it. I guess I’ve not really considered that approach…A lot of people do buy things online these days, don’t they? And it certainly would reach more people than just word of mouth around here.”

 

“A lot,” Paula nodded, “Just think about it. It could all be part of the stable operation that way.”

 

“Come here,” he took her in his arms and looked down into her eyes, “Do you have any idea how much I love you?”

 

“Yes,” she answered, “As much as I love you.”

 

“I’d give you the moon and the stars if I could,” he told her.

 

“Honey,” she caressed his face, “You give me the world everyday, and I see the moon and the stars every time I look in your eyes. I don’t need anything but you.”

 

Rob leaned down and kissed her, holding her tightly. She felt his hands slide down to the small of her back and under her sweater. She loosened his ponytail and ran her fingers through the long locks as they fell over his shoulders. She could feel his desire increasing as he pressed into her.

 

“Give it a rest, you two,” Mitch walked in.

 

“You have really rotten timing, Son,” Rob growled, pulling away.

 

“Sorry,” Mitch blushed, “I’m on a mission. Grandpa sent me to find you. He says he needs to talk to you about something important.”

 

“Well,” Rob tied his hair back again, “It had better be of monumental importance.”

 

~*~

 

Rob and Paula entered the living room hand in hand, finding Bill and Sally talking in hushed tones. Paula’s parents had already gone home, promising to return if they were still without power. Mitch headed outside with his brothers to build a snowman.

 

“What did you need, Dad?” Rob asked.

 

“Sit down, Kids,” he motioned to the sofa, “We want to talk to you about something.”

 

“OK,” Rob did as he asked, “Sounds serious.”

 

“Look, Son,” Bill told him, “Your mother and I have been talking and we’ve made some decisions. You know, we didn’t put you or your brother through college. We didn’t have to. We didn’t even buy your first cars or help pay for your apartments or anything…”

 

“Well,” Rob shrugged, “We both had jobs. We didn’t need you to help us.”

 

“Exactly,” Bill said, “But we’re in pretty good shape these days. Some of our CD’s have matured and since there’s no interest to be had now, it seems senseless to just let it sit in the bank. That’s one reason we bought Terry the new truck. He needs one and I doubt if he can afford to go out and buy one outright himself. He sacrificed a lot to move down here and help Dad. I know Dad left him the farm, but he still gave up a lot.

 

“Anyway,” he waved his hand, “My point is that I’m proud of both you boys. You’ve neither one ever asked for any help. I don’t think you need a new truck…”

 

“No,” Rob shook his head, “I don’t. We’re fine. You just gave us five horses, Dad. Believe me, that’s plenty.”

 

“Well,” Bill chuckled, “That’s what I thought you’d say. And you probably wouldn’t take money if I handed it to you.”

 

“No, I wouldn’t,” Rob was starting to get irritated, “You don’t have to try to make things even between me and Terry, OK?”

 

“Rob, Honey,” Sally spoke, “Just listen to your father, please.”

 

“I know the boys all have their own bank accounts,” Bill continued, “So I want to put $10,000 in each account to go towards their college tuition, or for cars when they’re old enough.”

 

Rob looked at him like he was crazy, then he looked at Paula. She tried to answer him with her eyes.

 

“Are you sure about that, Dad?” Rob asked, “That’s $30,000.”

 

“Which is about what Terry’s truck cost,” Bill informed, “And, yes, we’re sure. You know if we do things like this now, then it helps out with taxes and legal hassles on down the road and…”

 

“I need to talk to Paula,” Rob cut him off.

 

“OK,” Bill agreed, “Sally, let’s go get things packed to go home tomorrow.”

 

“Honey,” Paula said when they were alone, “Please don’t be rude to your father. He’s trying to help.”

 

“Well,” Rob was obviously angry, “I don’t need his help. Doesn’t he think I can take care of my own family?”

 

“He didn’t say that,” she was calm, “I don’t think he meant it that way at all.”

 

“Well how do you think he meant it?” Rob snapped, then seeing the hurt look on her face, “I’m sorry. I’m not angry with you.”

 

“Honey,” she put one hand on his shoulder, the other on his hand, “If you had the money and you thought one of our boys needed it, how would you feel if he turned you away?”

 

He look in her eyes and sighed, “I’d be hurt.”

 

“Then let him do this,” she advised, “He just wants to help out. He even told you he knew you wouldn’t take it from him. He told you he’s proud of you. He’s giving it to the boys for their future. Didn’t your grandfather ever do anything for you?”

“What?” He grinned, “Like let me live there for free while I was courting you? So I could put all my money back for this place? OK, I get your point.”

 

“So you’ll let him do it?” She asked.

 

“Yes,” he agreed, “But I want him to tell the boys about it himself and I want him to explain they can’t get to it until they turn 18.”

 

~*~

 

The day after Christmas, Mitch went back to work. Bill, Sally, Chelsea and Terry headed to St. Louis to pick up the new truck. About halfway through the day, the power came back on. Rob and the boys got the generator put away and then went to Terry’s farm to take care of his stock and disconnect his generator. Paula spent most of the day putting the house back in order after all the festivities.

 

It was the following evening when Mitch came in with a strange look on his face, “Are Chelsea and Terry back yet?”

 

“No,” Rob answered from his recliner, “Why?”

 

Mitch walked over and handed him a newspaper. Paula came to look over his shoulder, “What is it?”

 

“Isn’t that the company Chelsea works for?” Mitch pointed to the headlines, “They’re shutting down the whole operation in California and moving everything to China.”

 

“Oh no!” Paula exclaimed, “That is her company, isn’t it Rob?”

 

He was nodding as he read, “Yes, it is. Looks like she doesn’t need to rush home. They just sent everyone home and locked the doors.”

 

“We’re back!” Terry announced, walking through the front door, Chelsea on his heels. “Drives like a dream! Want to come try it out?”

 

They all looked up to see if Chelsea seemed clueless, which she did.

 

“It’s beautiful!” She gleamed, then caught their mood, “What’s wrong? Uncle Rob? Mitch? What’s happened?”

 

“Honey,” Rob started getting up, “I think you’d better sit down.”

 

Mitch went to her and put an arm around her, leading her to the sofa, “Listen, we’ve got some bad news, Chels…but I want you to know everything’s going to be all right.”

 

Paula glanced at Rob and he caught her message. Terry was still standing by the door in utter confusion.

 

“Have you seen the papers?” Rob queried, “Or heard any news? Or talked to anyone at home?”

 

“No,” she looked at Mitch who was seated next to her, “Why? What’s happened?”

 

Rob showed her the paper, “Isn’t this your company?”

 

Terry came to sit next to her and read silently. Chelsea’s face went from doubt to shock to horror in a matter of seconds as she read the article.

 

“I can’t believe this,” she finally spoke softly, “Just like that. How can they do that? I suddenly don’t have a job…”

 

“Honey,” Terry told her, “Don’t worry. You’ll be fine. You can stay with me as long as you like. Maybe you could even find a job here.”

 

She looked at Mitch, tears streaming down her face, “What am I going to do?”

 

“You’re going to stay here,” he stated flatly, “Your dad’s right. You can find a job here. We’ll help you get moved. This is where you belong.”

 

She looked up, “Uncle Rob?”

 

He squatted down in front of her, “They’re absolutely right, Honey. You’re staying here. Right here at our house if you want. I’ll help you put your resume together and after the first of the year, I’ll take you into Springfield to look for a job.”

 

“Just like that,” she was crying, “You’re all ready to just take me in. I don’t have much money put away…I spent it on these trips…”

 

“Don’t worry,” Mitch still had an arm around her, “That’s what families are for, Chelsea. We’re your family.”

 

“That’s right, Sweetheart,” Terry assured, “And we can hitch up the big trailer to my new truck and drive out together. We’ll get all your stuff and haul it back here. Between the three of us, we’ve got plenty of room to store everything.”

 

“Mother will have a conniption!” She stopped crying.

 

“Would you rather move in with your mother?” Rob  posed, a bit sarcastically.

 

“Not on your life!” Chelsea started laughing, “I’m staying here! Everything happens for a reason, right Paula?”

 

“Right,” Paula smiled.

 

~*~

 

“What are you thinking about?” Paula asked as she slid into bed next to Rob.

 

“I’m thinking this is going to be a long winter,” he sighed, taking her in his arms.

 

“Why? Just because Mitch is the only person in the whole family who has a job?” She remarked sarcastically.

 

Rob was silent and she regretted the remark as soon as it was out. She kissed his chest gently and then raised up to look into his eyes. She could see both worry and hurt in them.

 

“I’m sorry, Honey,” she kissed him, “I didn’t mean for it to sound like that.”

 

“It’s OK,” he was almost monotone, “You’re right. That’s exactly what I was thinking.”

 

“I was proud of the way Mitch jumped right in today with Chelsea,” she tried to be positive, “The way he told her we were her family and she belongs here.”

 

“So was I,” he smiled, “I think if she weren’t his cousin, she’d be our daughter-in-law before too long.”

 

“Mmm,” Paula snuggled closer, “I think you’re right. I hope he does remember she’s his cousin.”

 

“Oh, he does,” Rob assured, “I think it’s natural for them to gravitate towards each other. They’re close in age and they both came into the family as adults.”

 

“I wish he’d meet someone,” Paula confessed, “I think he’s lonely.”

 

“Someone he’s not related to, you mean?” He chuckled, “I don’t think he’s as lonely as he used to be. He’s at least got us now.”

 

“I think he wants a family of his own,” Paula shared.

 

“I don’t know if he’s ready for that just yet,” Rob disagreed, “I think he just wants a woman.”

 

She was silent for a few minutes, then she slid on top of him and raised up to look in his eyes, “Honey, I want you to promise me something.”

 

“What’s that?” He reached up and ran his fingers through her hair.

 

“I know you’re worried,” she informed, “And I think you’re right…it’s going to be a long winter. I think it may get worse before it gets better. I don’t want you to try to carry all this alone…”

 

“Paula,” he stopped her, “I don’t want you to worry. I’m going to look into your idea of having a web-site and selling my plans online. I think there could be some potential there. It’s something the boys can help with and it can be a part of school.”

 

“Good,” she sat up, “I’m glad you’re going to do that. If we’re going to be cooped up all winter, we might as well do something productive. You might even include Chelsea; let her feel useful.”

 

He sat up and held her there on his lap, “That’s a good idea. Now, what was it you wanted me to promise you?”

 

“That you’ll let me help,” she kissed him, “I know it’s your place to take care of us…and I have no doubt that you will take care of us…But, Honey, it’s my place to help you. We’re in this together, Sweetheart. Promise me you won’t just keep it all bottled up inside. I know you have to be brave and strong in front of the boys and Mitch and Terry and your folks…But you don’t have to be with me, OK? It’s all right for you tell me when you’re worried or even scared, OK?”

 

“OK,” he pulled her close and buried his face in her hair, “I promise. And I promise it will all work out, too. I’ll make sure it does.”

 

“I know,” she whispered in his ear, “I know you will. And do you know something good about long winters?”

 

“What?” He leaned back to look at her.

 

“Long winters have very long nights,” she whispered, kissing him.