I'm Still Here

I do apologize for neglecting my blog. It is not that I have not had anything to say; I actually forgot about it until I was reading a conference talk from October's Conference.
There is so much I could write, but most of it would be boring to you; and I'm not sure I could count it as writing in my journal because it wouldn't be listed among those pages.
School is going pretty. Much to my surprise, as well as my fifth grade colleagues, we were able to move into three of the new rooms that have been added to our school. We moved in the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. Needless to say I spent a considerable amount of time arranging and organizing over the holiday. It has been wonderful to have storage space and enough room to move around. I had some excellent help while moving. Thanks to Jen, Lindsey, Ashley, Nathan, Maggey, Abbey, and Sarah, my student teacher, the move into my new went very smooth.
In the beginning of November I went to St. George for two marching band tournaments. As always, it was fantastic. Thanks ALee for the accommodations. They were fantastic as always. We were able to see Ross and are glad that he's a least able to keep food in his belly.
I am way cool now. I was given an old Droid phone with a data plan. I love it, Jen hates it. The phone was free, what do you expect? I love being cool, even when it is a self appointed cool. And my cool is self appointed (currently).
OLD Man

St. George

This past weekend, Ken, the Greenwood's custodian, invited me to play in a softball tourny in St. George. This the first time I have played softball with adults since 1993.
I had a great time. I was the second oldest guy on the team.
Let me tell you...there are some softball fanatics out there. Ken invited guys he knew that liked to play. We haven't played together before. We played teams that have been playing for years. Needless to say we got spanked pretty bad. I'll tell you what I had a good time.
I got to meet Little Ross while I was there. However, he was in the ER with an IV. I tried to tell him there are better ways to get attention. I'd like to thank Jason for the little bit of humor. Jason wasn't home when ALee took Ross to the hospital. When he arrived home the neighbor told him that they had just taken Ross the hospital. Jason's first thought was, "They couldn't do that we buried him 3 months ago." It took him a minute to realize it was Little Ross and not his father-in-law, who in fact was buried 3-4 months ago.
Similarly, when mom called to tell me that Dad is gone. My first thought was, "Where did he go? Did he go get a Coke or something?"
Then mom said he's not breathing. "Oh, he's gone." I sure do miss him. Even now sometimes I forget that he had died.

OLD Man

Congrats Rwanda!!!!!

An article in TFK (Time for Kids magazine) said that a shop in Butar, Rwanda is the first to serve soft serve ice cream. This just happened in the last couple weeks. All of the ingredients can be obtained locally. If I remember correctly the name of the shop is called Sweet Dream.
I take so much for granted!!!!!!

OLD Man

I have a Confession

My confession is this. I have been painting the outside of our house. It has been on my Honey Do list for 3 years. If I keep it up Jen might think that the stuff that has been on the list for several years just might get done. Time will tell. I may have to rest for about 3 years before I do another item on the list.
Though that is my confession I really want to celebrate a small discovery. I am afraid of heights. Climbing trees and ladders have not been my strong suit. However, I have discovered that as I have been painting my house that the fear that I've had climbing ladders is nonexistent. When I realized this I felt great. I just wanted to share my small celebration with you. In life we need to celebrate what we can no matter how small or insignificant.

Family Update

We have been in school a week shy of a month. I am enjoying my class though it is bigger than originally anticipated. Being a teacher requires flexibility.
For the most part they behave pretty well.
Outside of school life is moving quickly. Marching band starts on Mon and seems to go non stop until the first week of November.
Ashley is going on a choir tour in April. It sounds like a fun trip. I told her that I could go as a chaperon. She asked why. I said, "That's what parents do." I'm not sure she liked the sound of that. It soooooo boring to have your parents along.
Nathan is finishing up his bicycling merit badge this weekend with a 50 mile bike ride on the Rail Trail near Park City. As of last night he wasn't looking forward to this. He was hoping to borrow his sister's iPod so he could listen to the BYU game. Nathan has earned about $40 rent his iTouch to his sisters. If he were smart he'd save his money to buy him a 32 or 64 gig iTouch and still rent the one he has now. Bell rang. Bye.

OLD Man

Obviously, I have put Brian and Carly in the freezer for a while. I haven't scheduled my time appropriately to add anything more to their life. I can't say that mine is very hectic, but planning is not my forte. I think Jen will be more that happy to confirm that. In our relationship I'm the one with my head in the clouds (I understand that I have left myself open, so fire away. I won't let you see me cry).
Also, I became tired of deleting all of the Korean porno links from my comments. Why do people have to do that? If they want to comment go ahead, but don't leave that garbage on my blog.
School is going pretty well. So far, I think that I'm doing pretty well with 27 students. Realize that I was to only have 19-21 and yes even adding 2-4 students changes the class drastically, let alone 8. To all my extended day colleagues...you get paid much more to teach more students. You can't complain.
Joe if you read this blog you need to read Wednesday Wars. It is excellent and should be right up your alley.
It has been a busy day with regional stake conference. Three meetings today and a general session tomorrow. I am somewhat worn out, but can't sleep currently. Why do the kids have to sleep in the family room? It is hard to watch a movie with them on the couch and floor. That may be the only good childhood memory they have. They do it quite often and they love it. The hard part is agreeing on a movie.
To you readers that can't find anything else better to read I say, "Good Night."

OLD Man

Writing Assignment for my class

This summer the family went camping. The gloves I was using to move my dutch oven got burned pretty bad. Thankfully, my hands were not in them. I brought them in for a writing prompt for my students. Here is one of my responses to the prompt:

I had met the family living in the house once. Driving to and from work every day I saw that house being built. As I watched the process I became curious about this house. When coming home late from work I would sometimes stop and snoop around.
This home was of modest size. It looked like it might hold a family of six or seven. When snooping around I often thought that I’d like to build a house very similar to this one. I even wondered if the family would let me use their floor plan when it came time to build a house of my own.
After the family moved in and seemed settled I stopped and asked if I could take a tour of their house. I had explained that I often would snoop around the house on my way home from work and felt that I should ask for their forgiveness for doing so. Because of my curiosity I wanted to see the finish product. Mr. and Mrs. Jensen were very gracious with my desire to tour the house and chuckled when I asked them to forgive me for looking through their house as it was being built.
On this particular day I had left work early. When I was getting close to Jensen’s house I saw smoke. When I turned the corner flames were barely licking their way out of one of the bedroom windows. It seemed as if none of the neighbors had noticed the smoke or flames coming from the house. I called 911, but knowing that the fire department was miles away I entered the house and followed the screams and cries I heard.
The fire was in the baby’s bedroom. I leaped through the flames in the hallway and grabbed the baby from her crib. Tucking her body into mine I again jumped through the flames and ran outside to a neighbor that had just arrived at the house.
The cries I had heard earlier were coming from downstairs. I raced down the stairs and saw through a wall of flames Mrs. Jensen at the door of what I remembered to be the laundry room. She was crouched into a ball on the floor crying and screaming. The look on her face lacked hope of getting out of this experience alive. I skirted the flames the best I could. I crawled to where Mrs. Jensen was sitting. I the flames were getting hot and suffocating. The noise was deafening. I knew that I had to coax her into action. Just before we were to move a beam from overhead fell. I caught with the back of my hands. Fortunately, I had grabbed my gloves from the truck on my way into the house.
The time it took to move the beam was only seconds, but seemed to take eternity. The path I found to Mrs. Jensen was still clear. I crawled behind her coaxing her along the way. By the time we reached the street the fire department as well as the paramedics had arrived.
The baby was fine and was playing with the mother from the house next door. Mrs. Jensen received burns on her back. The back of my hands were burned from where the beam had fallen on us. Thankfully the gloves took brunt of the burns.
The gloves have lost their use, but will remain in my truck to remind me that…

Swamp Coolers

I would like to say that I HATE swamp coolers. Oh, please excuse me, they are called evaporative coolers. Did you hear the sarcasm? I have changed the motor in my cooler 5 different times in the last 2 weeks.
I hate how everything soaks up the moisture, especially the sugar and salt. We have to turn it off to cook anything on the stove. I hate how it looks in the window. I hate how it leaks water all over the carport.
I do appreciate the cooler temperature. So...I guess I can put up with the I hates until it cools down. How does that send for a spoiled child?
The bishop of ward told me to go buy some Farr's ice cream mix, cut up some peaches and strawberries and pour the ice cream mix, unfrozen, over the fruit. This sounds very creamy, but fattening. I can almost taste it. This is what I want right now.
That's all I have to say for the moment.

OLD Man

The Question Continues

“Have you thought about my question, Brian?”
“I am not sure that I understand the question?”
“What’s to understand? Do you like my daughter?”
“Yes, I do.”
“Good what was so hard about that?”
“Duane is there a difference?”
Duane looked at me for a moment as if contemplating the answer. “It seems to me that people can love someone, but treat them poorly. However, it seems to me that people who like each treat them the way people should be treated. That’s why I asked.”
I thought about it a moment, but I guess my life experience hasn’t taught me that yet. I don’t want to learn it personally either.
“How did you and Melinda meet?”
Duane chuckled. It was nothing special. She was my sister’s roommate at college. My Mom wanted me to drop something off at her apartment. Monica wasn’t home. School had just started, so I hadn’t met her roommates yet. When Melinda answered the door I was speechless. You’ve seen the movies where the guy sees a cute and all of sudden can’t speak or move. That was me. I had to pick the jaw up off my floor. It was a good thing that Monica had family pictures on display or Melinda would have called the cops. After what seemed like an eternity I was able to gain enough wits about me to give whatever I had to Monica. Then I left. I was pretty sure that I had no chance whatsoever to get a date with her after my great first impression.

The Question

I went around to the back of the house, picked up a lawn chair and moved it away from the house. I wanted to enjoy the late spring/early summer cool air. I have always enjoyed star gazing. I took astronomy in jr. high, but don’t remember much. I can find the Big Dipper and that’s where it stops as far as the night sky goes.
While gazing at the stars I thought maybe I thought maybe I’d take an introspective look at my current circumstances. We both know that if someone had told me at Christmas that I was going to be engaged by May, I would have laughed out loud, pointed and said to the soul making this revelation, “YOU, are certifiably nuts!”
Up to this point in my life I have preferred to keep life predictable. Carly is not going to let me live a predictable life. I’m okay with that. She has been good for me and I suppose has brought me out of a shell, my shell.
I am amazed at how much love I feel for this woman that I barely know. She is many things that I am not. Though I know she does, she acts as if she doesn’t have a care in the world. She loves to read. We have been on a couple of dates where she has taken me to the park to read. During school I hardly ever read. While she was reading I pretended to read. I read enough to answer a question or two. Sitting down to read a book seems so foreign to me, but she loves to do it. We both love ice cream. That’s a good thing. It hasn’t happened very often, but I like the idea of being in the same room with her and not have to talk. There have been a couple of nights when I have called and told her that I don’t really need talk, I just need her on the other end of the line.
Sorry for the mushy stuff, but I needed to admit it openly.
I do know that I need to get back into school and make a plan for my life. We are heading that direction. I have been greatly blessed; there is no doubt about that.
I am nervous about going to visit my Mom next week. Actually, I may be more nervous about talking to brothers and sister.
The last few days have been wonderful. Carly’s family has been very accepting of me. They feel genuine in their acceptance of me. I had forgotten how much I liked open space. I am starting to feel clusterphobic just think about going back to the city. The quicker we get out of the there the better.
“Mind if I join you, Brian?”
“Oh, what?”
“Do you mind if I join you? You look lost in a world that seems like a nice place to be.”
“Sorry. Hi Duane. I’m just taking some time to think about all that has happened over the last few weeks.”
“I imagine it has caught you by surprise. Would you care to share any of your thoughts?”
“I was thinking how much I have been blessed. She is bringing me out of shell I’m not sure that I knew that it existed. I obviously had a crush on her for a while, but was too chicken to anything about it. I still feel embarrassed about running her over that day, but I am grateful that it happened. We have been very busy doing things together. I am grateful to have a running partner. She sets a pretty good pace.
“Brian, have you thought about the question I asked you the other day?”
“I have, but I don’t understand what you mean by it.”
“Think about it, do you like my daughter?”

Some more of Cube 5 and Me

Becca this is for you!!!! Here are my last 2 additions. If you missed something read the book when it comes out ;) hahahahaha!!!!!

Carly and I went for another walk. I really like here. I was not missing the sounds of the city. For a few moments I started regretting that I only had one day left before I had to return. Thanks to Carly I was pulled away from thoughts of returning to work.
“How do you like my family?”
“Well, as I said at dinner, I feel that I have known them for a long time. I hadn’t planned on asking your Dad if I could marry you within the first 2 minutes of meeting him.”
“Wait, you’ve already asked my Dad if you could marry me?” Carly said with a touch of irritation. “Why didn’t you tell me you’ve done that already?” This question came with a bit more irritation than I was comfortable with.
“I don’t know. It all happened so fast that I haven’t even thought about it since it happened.” I said with some regret.
“When and how did it come about?”
“Your Dad caught me out in your car cleaning it. He didn’t know you were coming for one thing and then to see a strange person rummaging through your car…” I walked quietly for a moment and then continued. “He’d said something about seeing if your family approved of me. I felt that your Dad likes things straight forward, so, I figured he knew why I was here and I came right out and asked him. We talked for a few minutes before we came into the house on Thursday. The wrestling was his idea. That surprised me, I didn’t take him for a prankster.”
“He doesn’t show that side of him very often, but he’s lots of fun when he does.”

“He asked me if I liked you, he said to listen the question carefully and I couldn’t answer him until Sunday morning when he and I are suppose to go for a walk.”
“You like me don’t you?”
“I love you Carly, you know that.”
“Brian you didn’t answer the question. Listen. Do you like me?”
“Yes, I do, but I don’t understand the difference.” I stated with more than a bit of frustration.
“Look Brian, you said yourself that my Dad seems straight forward. Answer the question and then tell you don’t understand the difference. Ask him to explain it to you. You might be surprised where it gets you.”
“Should I be nervous?”
“I don’t know I am the first daughter to get married; and unfortunately you are the guinea pig in-law.”
“Thanks.” With that being said I pulled Carly close and gave her a squeeze. The rest of the walk was done in silence; that comfortable silence that two people share.
When we reached the house I told Carly that I wasn’t ready to go to bed, and that I wanted to enjoy the night sky one last time before we headed home to the smog drenched city. With a kiss good night Carly headed to bed.

Thoughts on Dad

It was my turn to fix dinner tonight. I get to do that on Tuesdays. I fixed rice with hamburger gravy. I started craving some of Dad's rice pudding. There were several times that I asked for one of his recipes and all I got was, "...put a little of this, and some of that..." Did anyone else get this kind of a recipe from Dad? He certainly took some of his cooking secrets with him.
It has been strange to think of him as being gone. I still have to remind myself of that fact. I imagine that will get easier as time passes.
Another strange fact is that I saw a picture of Dad when he and Mom were on the beach. He had all of his hair then and was sporting something of a six pack. The strange part his that it is easier for me to picture him in the above description than with a bald head, etc. I never knew Dad when he had all of his hair, six pack, etc.

OLD Man

I'm Still Here

Hi All,
I am still here. I have been pretty busy with while working 3 jobs, baseball season, and plethora of other things. Brian and Carly are still hanging in there. I am thinking about finishing their story this summer, but it will still have to wait.
I played in a golf tournament on Tuesday. It was tons of fun. I played the best game I have ever played. My best scores are always when I play a four man scramble. The only requirement that I had to fill was to use one drive for each of the 9 holes. I accomplished that. I won some gift certificates to Cinemark and Mimi's Cafe in the raffle.
I've got to get back to work and the kids.
Bye!

OLD Man

Ah the Weekend Continues

"Hi Carly." A voice came from the sofa.
"Grandma Billy, Grandpa Doug. How are you doing? I wasn't expecting to see you."
"We're great, but it sounds like you're not doing too bad yourself.Your Mom said you had a surprise for us, but she doesn't keep secrets very well. So let's meet this surprise."
Grabbing my hand and pulling me, "Brian, this is my Grandma Billy and Grandpa Doug. They are my Mom's mom and dad. They live in Jackson."
"Grandma and Grandpa this is Brian Owens, my fiance." Carly's eyes were flashing with stars in them.
"Nice to meet you."
"Where are you from Brian?" This was Grandpa Doug.
"I was born and raised in Apple Valley; several hours north of here."
"I'm familiar with it." I wasn't sure what else to say. I really was not planning on meeting anyone beyond Carly's immediate family. I'm not sure why I didn't think I would be meeting grandparents. I couldn't even think of anything to say to make small talk.
"We want to hear the story Carly." Grandma Billy said.
"Oh, there's not much to tell."
"Carly, dear, don't lie to your Grandmother." she said with her own sly smile that looked really familiar. So, now I know where Carly got that smile.
Carly started in on our story. I excused myself and took our packages upstairs. I pulled out my camera and started snapping pictures. I interrupted Carly while she was telling her story to get a picture of her with her grandparents. Grandma Billy and Grandpa Doug were quite photogenic.
Grandma Billy was oohing and aahing, among chuckles.
I went outside and took pictures around the house. There were some pretty flowers in bloom. I was able to get some close ups of the trees in bloom, too. I wonder if Carly's Dad is going to like the candid shots I got of him while he was barbecuing. Oh well, he doesn't need to know that I took them.
I enjoyed dinner. I liked just listening to the stories being told after dinner. Because I was new to the family I was able to sit back and learn about this family's past. They all seemed to enjoy telling embarrassing stories. Embarrassing for someone else that is. I was able to sneak away and get my presents. When the family saw that I had presents all conversation stopped, and all faces were looking at me. Carly nodded for me to go ahead.
"Even though I have only met you two days ago, I feel like I have known you for almost forever. We have been so busy here that it seems I have forgotten what life was like before I met you. I can't really remember life without Carly. I wanted to give you these presents to say thank you. It's not much, but it's what I like to do. Juli here's yours. Mike that one belongs to you. Melinda and Duane these are for you. I apologize Grandma Billy and Grandpa Doug I didn't you know you were coming. If you want a copy of any of these I can get them and send them to you."
"Oh, Brian, these are beautiful. This one was taken the day you guys got engaged? That is a beautiful picture." Melinda marveled.
"Brian, I don't like to have my picture taken, but I will keep this one. Thanks." Juli said.
"Cool." was all Mike said. The pictures were passed around the table. Grandma Billy said she'd like a copy of all of them.
I hoped they liked them as much as I liked giving them.
After the dishes were cleaned up, food put away, and visiting was finished, Grandma and Grandpa Johnson headed home. Grandma Billy hugged me and kissed me on the cheek. Grandpa Doug gave me a warm, firm handshake. I couldn't wait to see the pictures I took of them.
Carly felt good as she stood next to me and held my hand.

Carly helped my put the pictures in frames and wrap them. I wasn't sure what Carly's family was going to think, I wanted this to be special. Her family had taken me in and accepted me. I felt loved and welcomed. Not unlike my own home. I won't contribute that to me even if it were possible. I saw that they trusted their daughter; loved her.
When we pulled up to the house and got out of the car we could smell the barbecue grill. My mouth started watering.
"I hope your like barbecued ribs." Carly said smiling.
"I have only ever had them at a restaurant." I replied
"Oh, these will be so much better. Trust me."
"I do."
"You do what?"
"Trust you." Carly stopped what she was doing and just looked at me. It seemed she was searching deep into my soul through my eyes. I hoped she found what she was looking for.
"Did you find what you were looking for?" I asked seriously.
"I did." Was her reply and she returned to what she was doing previously.
Okay I thought. I guess I don't need know what she was looking for. I didn't ask. Remember I trust her.

Just Me

My work environment has become extremely draining the last few weeks. It has become emotionally draining. It's not the students. I've got a good group of kids. It's the environment outside the classroom. As much as I try, I can't seem to keep myself motivated for the next 6 weeks. That's not good with testing coming up at the end of the month.
My students have liked hearing about Brian and Carly. I have had them write a story that we will put in a book for the classroom and each student will get a copy of everyone's story. It is going to be a lot of fun, I hope. I read one story today. It was good. This particular student really likes comic books. Actually, I have several that like comic books. This story will be great. I'm looking forward to hearing the other stories.
I work with some fantastic teachers and staff. They are hard working and dedicated to what they do. I am thankful for the support that I have received from them. They are life savers for sure.
On a completely different note. In the last month I have become more of a fan of prayer than I have been in the past. For so long I always felt that my prayers didn't make beyond 6 inches above my head and then sank to the floor. Most felt like they couldn't leave my head. Not that I was stalwart about it, but I did keep with it and prayers are much better now. They have become so much better that I have become addicted to prayer. Is there a support group for that? (Hahahahaha)
Our first game is Monday. We don't have much of a pitching staff. This will be a good season. I'm excited.
The age range is 9 to 12. Nathan towers over some of those 9 year old players. They are going to think he's 14 or something. I'm looking forward to seeing him hit the ball this year.
I had better head to bed. My day starts to early for me.
Love you all!!!!

OLD Man

Enjoying the Weekend Cont.

After picking up Mike and Juli we headed to the country. We came upon a cabin of sorts with a large barn. After getting out of the SUV, Mike was at the barn door opening it up. After a few minutes I heard an engine revving. Mike shoots out the door on a four wheeler.
I went into the barn and there sat 6 four wheelers. Couple of them were older than the others, but they all ran. I may not be too bright, but this day was going to be spent cruising the country side. I hadn't been on one of these for years.

I enjoyed the day. About 2:00 we stopped for some lunch. Carly showed me some trails that went through some of the mountainside. There was some beautiful scenery. I was glad that I had brought my camera with me. I think Carly's Dad got tired of waiting for me while I stopped and took pictures. I took several of her family. I can't wait to download them and see what they look like bigger than 2x2 inches.
When we got back into town we stopped at the local diner. Amy, one of Carly's best friends was there. Obviously, I was introduced as Carly's fiance. This was the first time that we had told anyone outside of either family that we were engaged. It felt strange. I'm not sure why.
Dinner was good. I love the small town diners. They seem to be the most friendly and taste great. It was a good day and I was very tired.
Carly and I postponed our run for 9:00 AM. I am not so sure that I wanted to get up then.
Surprisingly to me, I was up and ready to go running at 8:30. Again, Carly set a pretty good pace. She seemed to move slower however. She must be sore from yesterday's riding. It felt good stretch those muscles.
"Carly, would you mind if we walked and talked for awhile?"
"Sure, Brian, something wrong?"
"Not really. I just know that neither of us are where we want to be in regards to working. We both have a desire to be in school. Would you mind if we made some tentative plans that at least get us heading in that direction? We probably better set a date, hadn't we?"
"I've been thinking about that myself. I'd like to get married in July. That gives us about 3 months to plan. I always thought that I wanted a big fancy wedding, but I don't want that any more. I feel the smaller the better. If you don't mind, I'd love to have my grandpa marry us."
"He can do that? Well that takes care of one thing. That is pretty cool."
"Brian, I'd also like to get married in Jackson, which is about 30 miles from here. I know that is going to be a long haul for your family. I would however consider getting married closer to your family if you'd rather."
"I've never considered really where I want to get married, but I believe that it's our day and we should get married where we want to. Jackson would be fine with me." I got a kiss for that one. I need to make more comments like that, if that's the reaction the I get.
"I really want Sully to be at our wedding. Do you think he'll come, Brain?"
"When we get back home we had better make a visit to the park. Let's go on Tuesday and steal his bench.
"When we got here on Thursday I called Mom and asked if we could go visit her next week. We can leave on Thursday afternoon. We should be able to leave work early. She was okay with that."
"Brian, I haven't asked, I thought you would tell me when you were ready, but I don't want walk into this visit blind. What happened that was so bad that caused you to leave home and talk very little to your family?"
"To think about it now it seems quite trivial, but I said and did somethings that were really stupid. When I left I never got around to saying I'm sorry to anyone. The longer I wait to go back the harder it seems to be to go back.
"The basic story is this. The last couple of years I have been working at the store and keeping it going. I have an older brother, an older sister, and a younger brother. We were at Mom's house one night talking about the store. My older brother Sandy, my sister Jamie, and Mom were talking about the store. I don't remember what exactly, but it became apparent that those three assumed I wanted to run the store. They sat and discussed it like I wasn't even there. They also started listing things that they saw wrong with the store. Then they started directing that list to me and telling me how I was going to fix it. It was at that point I blew. I remember telling them 3 things: That staying at the store was not my life's ambition. There were other things that I wanted to do with my life. Second, was that if I wasn't running the store to their standards they could come and take over. And the third thing and for which I most regret is I told them all to go to...well that warm place that is suppose to never freeze over. I packed most of what I needed and left. They tried to convince me to stay. I drove to the city that night and stayed in a hotel for 3 nights, rented an apartment and found a job at Seaver's."
"I've talked to and emailed my Mom, but I haven't spoken to any of my siblings since. Mom told me that they asked her to forward my emails to them, but I haven't heard from any of them. Sandy took a few days off work to manage the store. Mom jumped in, too, until they found someone to manage the store. I know Mom works there a few hours a week. She does it to keep busy mostly. She gets paid a portion of the profit each month."
"What are you going to do when you see your family again?"
"I've already talked to Mom. She's told me that I don't need to apologize to her and she understands. I told her that I need to apologize if not to her for her, but for me. I honestly don't know about Sandy and Jamie. I've got a few days to think it through.
"Carly, I need to know if you'll feel comfortable meeting my Mom even with all this."
"I don't know Brian. It's not what I imagined it would be to meet my future in-laws. Let's talk about that later."
We held hands and walked more in silence.
It was 10:30 before we got back to the house and cleaned up for the day. I had brought my laptop computer with me. I decided to download the pictures I had taken before.
"Melinda, do you have a Walgreen's or another store in town I can send my pictures to to get developed?"
"Yeah, Brian we've got a Walgreen's in the middle of town."
I told Carly to meet me in Mike's bedroom, but to be sneaky about it. When she came up I showed her the pictures of the day before. I deleted several pics and sent the rest to be developed. I even sent the pictures that were taken the night I proposed.
Carly and I left under the premise that Carly wanted to go to the arcade. We did go and play some games. We didn't want to lie. I had picked 4 pictures and the picture of Carly that I took just before I proposed. Carly helped me pick out frames and wrapping paper for them.
Carly knew the librarian pretty well, so we asked to if we could use a table and some scissors. We must have looked funny. How often do you see someone wrapping presents at the library.
We went back to the diner. Carly told me to sit down and that she would order. When she came to sit down she was carrying the two biggest root beer floats I have ever seen. It was mostly ice cream with a little root beer. The ice cream was the hard ice cream, not that wimpy soft serve stuff. A few minutes later a waitress brought a mug of root beer to add to our floats if we needed it.
"Brian, I'd like to get married on August 3, in Jackson."
"What happened to July?" I smiled.
"August 3rd feels better." She smiled in return. "I'd still like to get married in Jackson. The also have a reception center there. We could have something here. I really don't want anything fancy. However, I think I want some dancing to be involved. We can go on our honeymoon and then have an open house in Apple Valley a week later."
"Maybe we're not going on a honeymoon." I tried to keep a serious look about me, but it only lasted until Carly looked at me with those big brown eyes. "I'm only kidding, I'm only kidding." I wanted to cry.
It was then she piped up and said, "I know." and flashed her pearly whites at me. Oh I hate when she does that. She gets me every time with that look. Just wait the next time she uses that look again she'll be serious and I think she's be kidding. That would be my luck.

Enjoying the weekend

"Carly are there some trails close by that I could run on in morning?"
"I didn't know that you were a runner."
"I only run 3-5 days a week. I really don't enjoy running all that much, but it keeps my head clear and the heart pumping. I don't run for distance either. I run for about a half hour or 45 minutes. It depends on the day."
"Brian, would you mind if I ran with you tomorrow?"
"No problem, as long as you don't run me into the ground. I'm not a fast runner."
"I'll keep it slow enough for ya' Santa Fe." Carly said with a cunning smile.
"I'm sure you will." We both chuckled.
Before we went into the house. I gave Carly a kiss on the cheek. As I headed upstairs I was wondering how to not take those tender kisses for granted.
Mike volunteered to sleep on the floor in his room so I could have the bed. I kept trying to insist that I would be fine on the floor. I couldn't Melinda and Mike.
Mike was reading a book when I went in to his bedroom. He directed me to a towel so I could shower.
When I returned I had been thinking over the day, and the last few weeks. My world had turned upside down, in a good way, and I was considering how blessed I had become. Carly was good for me. How I hoped and worried that I was as good for her. She managed to bring me out of a life where I didn't live, but existed. I was wasting away and didn't realize it. She has rekindle a fire that has put me into motion.
Six in the morning came at 3 I think. Maybe Smithfield has a different time than the rest of the state. Carly knocked on the door softly. I had my gear out and got it on quickly. Mike was stirring. He probably had to get soon for school. When I got outside Carly was already stretching. I joined her. It had been a few days so I was stiff, but it didn't take long for the stiffness to drain away.
"How long do you want to run this morning?"
"I'll take a anything up to 45 minutes. Depending how you fast you run me into the ground I may be back here in 5 minutes."
"I'm offended. How dare you think I'd do something like that, Mr. Owens."
"It may have been dark last night, but I saw the look."
"Mr. Owens you offend me again. Whatever do you mean?"
"Don't play coy Miss Smith. I know the look when I see it."
"Are you ready to run Santa Fe?"
"Show me the way Cube 5." I said trying to show my look. I'm just trying to be macho. I have not developed a look yet.
Forty-five minutes later I was sweaty, but I was able to keep up pretty well; she sets a good pace.
I walked around the yard for a few minutes. I have forgotten how good the country smells. I felt revitalized. This felt good.
Duane took a day off. Mike and Juli had to go to school for a test in first period, but Melinda said she'd check them out of school.
I'm not sure what all this would mean for me, but I was looking forward to seeing Carly in her home environment.
After showering and a hot breakfast I helped clean up. Melinda started making and packing a lunch.
Whispering to Carly, "What is your mom doing? Where are we going?"
"We are going to see if you can really handle being a Smith."
"Uh...what are we going to do?"
"Worried? Santa Fe."
"Should I be?"
"Nope. You'll be fine. We are just going to have a some fun for a few hours. We'll be gone long through lunch. So, Mom is making one for us."
"Are you going to give me a clue?" I asked.
"Wear a pair of old clothes if you've got them. What size of shoe do you wear?"
"Size 11, I think."
"Good, Dad will have a pair of boots that will fit you."
I hadn't made my bed yet so I headed upstairs to do that and read for a while.
I soon heard my name being called. It was weird to hear Melinda call me. "Carly said you needed some boots. Try these on. I'll think they'll fit." They fit comfortably.
"They fit nicely. Thank you."
"Brian, how is your mom handling the loss of your Dad?" I was not expecting this question.
"Melinda, before I can answer that question, you need to know though I call and email Mom, I have not been home in over 7 months." I could see the shock in Melinda's eyes. I could also see a questioning concern. It might have been, 'What will this mean for my daughter?'
"Melinda, Carly knows that when I left home that I didn't leave under the best circumstances. She has been very patient with me, knowing that I will tell when I am ready."
"That must be killing her. Patience is not one of Carly's virtues." Malinda said with a bit of a smile.
"Before I left Mom would cry sometimes at night, but it grew less frequent. Surprisingly she would laugh more than cry. She had a memory come to mind and just start laughing. Most of the time she would share them with us kids. There were others that she kept to herself. I think she's doing okay though. She still works at the store that she and Dad started how many ever years ago. It keeps her busy, I guess.
"Carly doesn't know it, but we are going to Apple Valley next week to meet my Mom at least."
"Come on you two slow pokes, Dad's chompin' at the bit to get out of here. And we still have to get Jules and Mike." Carly said.
"Well Brian, I believe that is as close as we are going to get to a engraved invitation." Melinda said smiling.
With that we headed out the door to what I hope to be a fun adventure.

Dinner

Dinner was excellent I felt very comfortable during dinner. Carly's family was easy to talk to. I didn't say much, but they were fun to listen to. I wondered if dinner was always this chatty. Even with a stranger at the table.
"So, Brain, what do you want us to know?" Mr. Smith said.
"I don't know. Um...I did graduate from high school. I don't know what to tell you? Maybe it would be better if you let me know what you want to know." This didn't sound good, but I feel I don't know what is interesting enough to tell my future in-laws.
"Tell us about your family, where did you grow up? Those kinds of things." This was from Melinda.
"I grew up in Apple Valley. It's a little town of 5 hours north of here. My family still lives there. My mom is manager of the family store. My Dad ran it until he died 3 years ago. He died of a heart attack. The ambulance got him to hospital and stabilised. They flew him to the medical center, but he died while in surgery. We all took it pretty hard. I can't speak for the rest of the family, but I made my peace with God. When I think about him I chuckle. He use to pull these faces at me and siblings. He use to do it when we were trying to be mad, but he could always make us smile. He coached my baseball team when I was in little league. My older brother and I played on the same team. He always made it to my games. I played through high school. He was seemed to make to my away games as well." All the females were wiping tears from their cheeks and eyes. "I didn't mean to turn this into a crying fest. I love my Dad. Sometimes I feel like he's looking over my shoulder. He use to do that when he was alive, but it never felt like he was doing it to make sure whatever I was doing right. He always seemed interested in my projects, whatever they were. He may have been doing to make sure I understood what I was doing. If I could explain it to him then I knew what I was talking about, even though thing sometimes wouldn't work out the way I thought they should."
I sat silent for a moment. The Smiths let me sit in my quiet. Even Mike was quiet, which surprised me considering his age.
"I played baseball for the high school team. Oh, I already told you that. I played trumpet in the band. We had a small band, but it was a lot of fun. Especially jazz band. My junior year our band director took us to a recording studio. We recorded 4 songs. It was totally awesome. Oh, sorry. I'm getting a bit carried away."
"Your fine we love hearing it." Melinda said.
"Carly I think your Dad and sibs need to hear about how you and Brian got engaged."
"This ought to be good." Juli said. "Carly has been hiding Brian for however long. Carly I thought you and I were like best friends, but no you hide things from me."
"Jules, it's nothing like that. If you'd hush I'd tell you."
Carly began her story. She even let me add some detail. Juli had to pick her jaw up off the floor. Melinda's cried again. Mike, well he's a teenage boy. Carly's Dad was the hardest to decide what he was thinking. He just listened calmly.
"Juli, we knew and know what took place was right. We wanted to get use the idea of being together and didn't really need to hear all of the comments about or nay-sayers our story.
"We've seen Sully at the park a couple of times. He's doing well. He still jokes about our engagement."
While telling our story Carly was not bashful about holding my hand and leaning against me. I love how comfortable she feels.
"Brian, I do not understand what Carly and you do for work, but form what I do know, I can't imagine anyone do that for a career." This question came from Carly's Dad. I started chuckling. Carly's Dad looked offended, but I held up my hand to show that I would explain.
"I said that very thing to Carly last week. And you are so right. I've not taken the opportunity to go to school yet. I spent the last 3 or so years working in the store. However, if I'd like to be an airline pilot."
"Cool. Do you have your license?" Mike said in awe.
"Not yet. I've only been on a ride with a friend of mine. I really enjoyed it." I replied.
"Mike, Brian, and Jules, will you help me with the dishes?" Carly asked, but mostly told. I helped. Carly's parents sat in the living room talking. I wish I could hear more of their conversation. I'm not worried about what her parents think of me, but it would be nice to know.
The day had gone better than I had expected. I hope next week would be just as easy for Carly.
We ended our day with a walk. It felt good to be away from our corner of the world and the stress that comes with it.
I am always amazed at how many more stars I can see when in smaller towns. I understand how it works, but it still amazes me.

Meeting Dad

Carly's pictures were the usual family pictures. Naked in the tub, playing in the yard, school pictures. You know the kind I'm talking about. However, the funnest pictures to look at were the dance pictures from high school. I browsed through those pictures. I saw one boy more than once. "Hey Carly, I've seen this boy in more than one dance picture. Is there something you need to share with me? I believe I recall you saying that you didn't have a boy friend. These pics show otherwise."
"Have you ever heard that looks can be deceiving?" Carly said with some superiority in her voice.
"Have you heard, 'Avoid the appearance of evil' by chance?" was my smart Alicky reply.
"Okay, I will concede that, but he was the one who wanted him and me to be an item. I just couldn't do it. I also told him flat out that I was not interested in dating steadily. But he kept asking me out." Carly said.
I noticed the time. Carly's dad should be getting home in a little while. I had managed to forget about it, but I was nervous again. I started to shake my leg. Carly picked up on it and sent me outside to clean out some stuff out of her car. I was happy for the distraction.
"Excuse me, but I think you're in my daughter's car. May I help you?" came the deep sound of fatherly voice.
Needless to say it startled me. So much so that I smacked my head against the inside of the car while trying to pull myself out of the car. With one hand rubbing my head I held out the other. "Yes sir, this is Carly's car. She asked me to clean some of the stuff out of it for her. Oh, I'm Brian, Brian Owens. I'm a friend of Carly's. We work in the same office. You must be Mr. Smith."
"That I am son." He gripped my hand firmly and shook it. "Carly must be inside then. I didn't know she was coming home for a visit."
"Well, Carly wanted to surprise you and the family. She likes to do those kind of things." I said trying to make small talk.
"I guess she brought you home with her to see if we approve of you?" Mr. Smith raised his eye brow with that question.
"Well..." I didn't know what to say. This whole thing caught me so off guard. My mind was scrambling, and I didn't know how to stall for time. "She brought me here so that I could ask you permission to marry her." In the minute or so of talking with Carly's dad, I had decided he liked things to be straight forward. "Mr. Smith may I marry Carly?" After asking this question we both leaned against the car. I could see the tension ease from his shoulders and face. His face became much softer.
"Brian is it? I have one question. The answer to this question will affect your future with my daughter. Do you like Carly?"
I quickly started to reply. "I love y..."
"Stop! You need to think about this question before you reply. When are you two heading home?"
"Sunday." I said being confused.
"Plan to talk with me on Sunday morning. I'd like to go for a walk with you and spend some time with you.
"I have another question...can you act?" Mr. Smith asked with a big smile on his face. I nodded. "Great follow my lead."
I had to walk quickly to keep up with him to the door. "Mel call the cops. I caught this boy trying to steal Carly's car. Hurry!"
"What's wrong Dear?" Melinda called out.
"Hurry call the 911. This kid was trying to steal Carly's car." Mr. Smith started to wrestle with me a bit. I took that as a cue to do some resisting. I started to struggle to get free. He has wrestled me to the floor face down. I kept struggling. Carly's Dad put his knee in my back. All this happened before anyone could get into the front room.
"Daddy." Carly shouted. "Daddy that's my fiance, Brian."
"Your WHAT?"
"Dad that's Brian my fiance."
"Why have we never met this no good for nothing...?"
"Duane get off of him at once." Carly's Mom said.
I started coughing and acting like I couldn't breath.
Mr. Smith rolled me over, "Is this true boy? Do you think you can just waltz in here and steal my daughter from me?"
"Daddy stop it." Mr. Smith offered his hand to help up. He winked at me and he started laughing. That was my cue to start laughing. Carly, Melinda, Dan, and Juli couldn't figure out they had just been duped by their dad.
"Duane, I can't believe you." Melinda slapped Duane on the shoulder. Carly just turned and walked into the other room. This went a lot better than I had anticipated. But I still had Sunday morning to look forward to. Mike and Juli were rolling on the floor, because they were laughing so hard.
Duane went into the kitchen and kissed his wife. She let him kiss his cheek, but she didn't appreciate what he had just done. What I saw was what I wanted after 30 years of marriage.
"Hey Carly, it's good to see you. And a nice surprise. Didn't see any of this coming for sure. It's been a while."
"Daddy, be nice. So much for telling in a nice way."
"Apparently, there's something you need to share with your old man."
"I tell you at dinner." Carly said looking somewhat dejected.
"Give your old Dad a hug and kiss."
"I think you don't deserve a hug and a kiss." with this statement she stuck her nose to the air.
"Okay, if that's the way you feel then, I...I...I think I'll go to bed and not get out all weekend." Duane had said in one of the saddest voices I have ever heard. He even stuck his bottom lip out. Carly caught a sideways glance at him and she started laughing.
"Gotcha."
"Be nice to me Dad. I'm your favoritest oldest daughter."
"That you are." with that Mr. Smith disappeared upstairs.
When Carly looked at me I could see that I was in trouble, but I just shrugged my shoulders and went into the other room.

Talking to Mom

It was about 2:00 before Carly had finished tell our story and we had finished lunch. Carly's mom was very warm and gracious. I saw where Carly's smile came from. Her smile is identical to her mother's smile, both very beautiful. As we got settled Melinda (It's taking me time to get use to calling Carly's mom Melinda. It feels weird.) would steal glances at both us. I didn't mind. It took me to thoughts of how my own mom would react.
Because of the circumstances under which I left home, I had never thought about what it might be like to return home. I'm pretty sure that Mom would let me come back and be accepting; it's my siblings that worry me.
"Carly, I'm going to outside and call my mom." I said.
"Everything okay, Santa Fe?" she smiled.
"Yeah." I smiled and kissed her on the cheek and went outside.
"Hey, Mom? This is Brian."
"Are you okay, Honey?"
"Yeah, I was just was thinking about you and needed to call. How are you?" I asked with a little hesitation.
"I'm fine Bri. Not much going on in this sleepy little town."
"Do you still get together with the ladies of the neighborhood and do quilts once a week?"
"Yes, I do. The ladies ask about you on occasion. They often ask me what you do for work, and I can never remember what it is you do."
Chuckling, "Mom, I'm not even sure what I do. They ought to get a kick out of that. Mom I guess I called to ask a question, can I come home next Thursday and stay until Sunday afternoon?"
The silence lasted a little longer than was comfortable. "Mom?"
"I'm here." My mom's voice had a quiver in it.
"I don't have to come home, I can wait for another time." I wasn't sure if I wanted to hear what may come next.
"Oh, no, no Brian. I have been wanting to hear you say that since you left."
"I know that I hurt your feelings before I left. I have never really apologized, and I want to do that in person."
"Brian, you don't..."
"Yes, I do Mom. If not for you, then for me. Mom, this is going to sound bad, but it's not that things have become...complicated isn't the right word, but it is the only word that comes to mind."
"You're going to make me stew about it all week long? You're not being nice to your old mother."
"I'm sorry, I don't mean to. I just wanted you to know there is more stuff coming. Can I bring you something from the city to make up for it?" I asked hopefully.
"Ummmm...Are you sure you want to ask that Brian?" I heard the smile in Mom's voice. It sounded good.
"Yes, Mom anything."
"Since moving to the city have you been to that bakery that's on 2nd South? The one that your Dad and I use to take you kids to when you were little?"
"I haven't. I forgot about that place. I wonder if it's still there." Boy did that bring back some great memories. I could actually smell the bakery this very moment.
"If it is, bring those brownies that nuts in them and coconut frosting. If they don't have them I'll take just you."
"Thanks, Mom. I'll work on those brownies. You don't need to tell my siblings that I'm coming. I haven't talked with any of them since I left."
"I know, they ask me to forward the email you send to me to them. They worry about you and they too are nervous about talking to you."
"In a way that makes me feel better about coming to visit." I felt a bit of the weight that I have been carrying around the last six months had just been lifted off my shoulders.
"Is there anything else Brian?"
"There's not, but it has been so good to talk with you. It has been too long in coming, but I appreciate you being patient with me. It means a great deal. It will mean even more next week.
"I'll call in early next week. Love you Mom." I said as tears rolled down my cheek.
"I love you Brian. Bye."
After hanging up I stayed outside. I didn't want Carly to know that I had been crying. Looking around I decided that I love small towns. There's room to move and breathe. At times it can be a curse, I really like it that everyone knows everyone else.
I had made through two significant events today and I still have one more. I have met Carly's Mom, I've talked with my Mom and started repair what damage I had done, the third event was to meet Carly's Dad.
"Excuse me, but I believe you're leaning against my sister's car." came a young female voice.
"I believe I am." was my reply.
"Can we help you with something?" the young voice continued.
"That depends. If memory serves me correctly you are Juli and you are Mike." I said pointing to the teenage boy next to Juli. I could tell this made both of them nervous, but I was having fun.
Pulling out a note book I carry in my pocket, I said, "Juli, you are a junior at Smithfield High School. You are on the track team and you play for the girls' basketball team." Turning to Mike I said, "You like to draw. I've seen some of your work. I like it. I really like your pencil drawings. I also think that you play trumpet in the band. Is this all correct?"
"Yes." they both said nervously.
I had tried to put on my most serious face I could muster. Then not being able to hold in the my laugh I said, "My name is Brian. I'm the guy that is going to marry your sister."
"My sister is not dating anyone...who are you really?" Juli was looking at me intently.
"I promise I am Carly's fian...."
"Brain? Are you okay?" Carly called from the front door.
Those two did not believe me. It was written all over their faces.
"Carly, is this guy your fiance?" Juli asked.
"Yes he is. I see that you met." Mike shrugged his shoulders and took his stuff do his room. Juli on the other hand screamed with delight. I even got a hug out of the deal. Juli wanted to hear all about it, but to her dismay Carly said she'd tell about it at dinner. Juli was not a happy camper, but she accepted it.
I had brought a book to read, but didn't feel like reading. I moved in and out of the kitchen, but found myself to be in the way. I went back into the living room. Before sitting down I saw a picture album, so, I grabbed it.
This book must have been Carly's. It has pictures from the first day.
"Oh don't look at those. They're too embarrassing." Carly said as she sat on the arm of the chair and put her arm around my shoulders.

Meeting the Fam Cont

I just got nervous.
"Mom, Mom, are you home? Mom?"
"I'm up stairs. I'll be down in a minute. Who's here?"
"It's me Mom, Carly."
"This is a pleasant surprise. I'll be down in a minute."
"You can sit here at the kitchen table. Do you need a drink or anything?"
"A glass of water would be great." I was feeling fidgety and hoped that having something in my hands would make it better. However, I became so nervous I drank the entire glass. Carly saw what I had done and she refilled my glass. She then headed upstairs to find her mom.
She must have met her mom on the stairs.
"Carly, what a surprise. It's been awhile. What's the occasion?"
"Well, come in the kitchen and I'll tell you." I was trying to decide if Carly was wearing her biggest smile or was she trying to hide it.
Carly entered the kitchen first. "Mom...this is Brian Owens."
When Carly's mom came in the room I stood like my parents had taught me. "Brian, this is my mom Melinda."
"Hi." I said a bit too quietly.
"Carly, you didn't tell me that we had company."
"Ah...Mom he's more than company."
"Carly Anne Smith, what do you mean by that?" It took one look at Carly for Carly's Mom to know what she meant.
"You are engaged? When? Why didn't you tell us? Carly, you never told me you were dating anyone let alone dating anyone seriously."
"Well, there is a story Mom, if you'd like to hear it?"
"Sure I'd like to hear it. Do you guys need any thing to drink? I know it's a bit of a drive. I think we have some pop in the fridge."
"No, Mom, but thanks."
"I'm fine Mrs. Smith. Thank you."
"Ah, Brian is it? I'd really like it if you called me Melinda or Mel for short, you decide."
"Yes, ma'am."
Turning to Carly Melinda said, "Did he hear anything I just said?"
"Mom give him a break. He's being polite. Give him a couple of years and he'll come around."
I know Carly was just kidding, but it does take me awhile to warm up to people. Carly was different; she either forced me to do it or she was able to draw it out of me. I can't decide which, and it doesn't matter anyway.
"There's the smile I've grown to love." I felt my face get hot and I'm sure it turned a pretty shade of pink.
"Do you want me to call Dad and tell him to come home. He's got a light schedule today? Never mind, I can't wait for him to get home to hear the story you've got to tell. Before you get started let me make a phone call." We waited a few minutes for Carly's Mom to cancel an appointment she had for this afternoon. When Carly sat down she did so by me and grabbed my hand under the table. That felt reassuring.
"Okay, I'm all ears."
Because our story is really short it didn't take long. "While Brian was taking my picture I started to feel a warm tingling sensation. It was strange, but very comfortable. He had snapped a picture and then let his camera hang around his next and just looked at me. It wasn't that uncomfortable stare like something was wrong or that didn't make me feel uncomfortable. He looked at me like he was looking through me. I became lost in my own thoughts when he said, Carly, marry me. Without hesitation I told him to come and kneel in front of me, take my hands in his and ask me again. He did and I said, Yes." Carly's Mom had been dabbing her eyes with her apron. "Wow!"
When Carly had finished she laid her head on my shoulder and I kissed the top of it.
"Do you have a ring yet, girl?
"We've been shopping and have liked several rings, but none of them feel right. I want to have one and I'm getting impatient."
"I can understand that Dear, but if you wait for the right ring you will be glad you waited."
"When I say that I feel so something. I can't quite describe it. Selfish, spoiled, worldly? I know it's not about the ring. Mom, am I bad for feeling that way?"
"That depends Carly. Do you I'll be happy when I get a ring? I'll do this when I get a ring? On and on?" Melinda asked Carly.
"No. Even though I have never worn a ring on that finger I feel naked without it. Often I grab my finger and expect to feel something there, but there's nothing there and then I remember I don't have a ring yet."
"You're fine Dear. Carly does this boy enjoy a good steak?"
"Mom he does speak English, ask him." Carly replied, smiling this was some inside joke that I was not privileged to know.
"Brian, do you like steak?"
"Yes ma'am I do."
"Good, I needed a reason to fire up the grill and this is as good as any."

Meeting her Fam

"So, Carly, how we going to tell your family?"
"That's the easy part. We walk in and I say Mom this Brian, my fiance. Brian this Melinda, my mom."
"She doesn't have a clue that we've been dating or anything?"
"Not unless she has a crystal ball or something."
"Is your mom going to freak out or hit me or something like that?"
"Mom has been thinking that I need to get married. She got married at 19 and thinks that everyone should get married as young as she did. She'll love the moment she meets you. She'll probably kiss you on the cheek and give you a big hug and treat you like you've been friends for years."
"Is that what she did with all your other boyfriends you brought home?"
"Brian, are you sure you want to ask that question?"
"What's wrong with that question, Carly?"
"You see nothing wrong with that question? Really?"
"Look at me Brian." I turned and looked at her. She kept looking at me as much as she could while driving. "Brian, I never really had a boyfriend. Sure my circle of friends included boys, and yes they came over, but none were considered my 'boyfriend'."
"Oh sorry. If you think about it, I was never your boyfriend either. I went from a date to fiance in the matter of hours."
"Yes, you did, so my boyfriend records remains untarnished. However, Brian, I will not trade you for any number of boyfriends in the world."
"Thanks Carly. I love you"
"I love you." Carly replied.
The road signs told me that we were getting close to Smithfield's exit. After getting off the exit it was still another 20 minutes. I was trying to decide if I was getting nervous yet. The nervous butterflies tried to work their way into my stomach, but they could only get as far as the boundaries of consciousness. Meeting Carly's family just might turn out okay. But then again, nothing with her was what it might seem.
We've been engaged for about a month. No one knows it except Sully. Co-workers at the office know that we are dating, but they haven't been told that we're engaged.

The Drive to Smithfield

"My first choice is to stay home and be a mom. Until we have kids I want to be a teacher in an elementary school." I would have never pictured standing in front of a classroom full of kids, but now that she has mentioned it, I can see it. Would she let me be in her class?
Carly was quiet for awhile. I really didn't want to interrupt her, so I watched her with interest.
"Brian, I'm ready to back to school."
"Okay. What year are you in school?
"I left after the first semester of my sophomore year. I was an undecided major at the time."
"Where did you go to school?"
"I went to Snow College. It's a small 2 year college in Simpson Springs. I really loved it there. Though I left early, it was a great place and have always wanted to return there to finish up. Would you consider going there?"
"I can look into it. I'm still not sure what I want to be when I grow up. However, I currently I want to be an airline pilot. I've been tempted to go for an introductory ride, but I've been chicken."
"I don't think they let chickens fly airplanes, Santa Fe. Maybe you should be a train engineer." Carly was trying not to show too much of her smile, but it wasn't working. I think if she wasn't driving she would have laughed herself to the floor."
"Thanks, Carly, Thanks. Am I going to have to live that for the rest of my life?"
"Oh yeah. I will not let you forget that day...at least for as long as I can remember. As a matter of fact, I still have the remnants of a bruise on my leg."
"Sorry." I said repentantly.
"So, Brian, how old are you, and when's your birthday?"
"Well, I'm the ripe old age of 24 and my birthday is 13 April. I grew up in Apple Valley. I played baseball from little league through high school. I was on the high school baseball team. I played third base. I also played trumpet in the band."
"Oh, I've heard about those trumpet players. My friends in the band thought that they were the gift to world, and that the world can't live without them. Is this true?"
"You have living, breathing proof sitting right here. We are the greatest and yes we are the gift to the world." Carly slowed down and eventually pulled off the side of the road. I was looking around. I could tell that we didn't have a flat, and I didn't hear any sirens. "What are you doing?" She looked at me and said nothing. Then with her finger she motioned me closer. She wrapped her arms around my neck and kissed me. She pulled away and looked up like she was contemplating something. She kissed me again. Again, she pulled away and looked up. Then she pinched my lips between her forefinger and thumb. After that she poked my lips with her finger, not hard, but firmly. "What in heavens name are you doing?" I asked getting more than a little irritated.
Looking up and speaking to no one in particular, "They are pretty good." She put the car in drive, gained some speed, turned on the signal, and we continued on our way.
I think I now what she was doing, but I couldn't be sure.

Shopping Again and Her Family

"Carly, I know that you're disappointed about not finding a ring. I saw some that looked beautiful, but it didn't feel right to buy any of them. I think we had better wait for a while."
"But I don't want to wait!" Cary said with a bit of a whine.
"I know, but something will present itself." I said with more confidence than I felt.
The ride to Carly's apartment was a quiet one. I never knew that I could be with someone and the quiet could be so comfortable. This felt great, but I also knew that Carly was disappointed.
I had learned that Carly grew up in a small much like I did. However, Smithfield was a couple of hours drive south of the city. She was part of the cheerleading squad and played volleyball. Her volleyball team went to the state championship game all three years of high school. They had won the state championship her sophomore and senior years. Though I was nervous about meeting the family, I was excited to see photos, trophies, and all the other things that get collected over the years. Oh how I love this girl and want to learn everything about her.
If you haven't picked up on it yet, but Carly likes to surprise people. As far as I have been told Carly's family doesn't have a clue that I am even coming let alone in the picture. I'm not sure what she has planned, and to be honest I'm just a tad bit nervous.
The next few days had flown by. Thursday morning was here. I had that nervous excited feeling. I couldn't say that I had butterflies in my stomach, because if I did I wouldn't have been able to eat breakfast.
Carly had wanted to get an early start on the day, but I convinced her to let me sleep in. I was on vacation dang it and wanted to enjoy my mattress a little more than usual. Carly picked my up at 9:00. I was excited that she was driving. I liked to drive, but she had insisted that we were going to her turf and she wanted to drive.
"Carly how did you end up at Seaver Stats?" I had been wanting to find out this info for awhile, but the opportunity had never presented itself before.
"I'm not sure really. I moved to the city and was looking for a job, and happened to get this one."
"Is it where you want to be though? It's not really a job that I see anyone doing for any amount of time. With your outgoing personality I can't really imagine you working there at all. I tend to think that you could get any job you wanted."
"You think I have an outgoing personality Mr. Brian?" she asked with a her killer smile.
"Ah...yeah. You know that you're outgoing, don't be smug with me." I just had to shake my head and chuckle.
"I really don't know how I ended up at Seaver, but it's not where I want to be. I was in school for a while and needed what I felt like was well deserved break from that.

Time to Tell

"Brian, I want to tell my family about us. It's been a couple of weeks now, and I can handle the questions about our quick engagement." Carly said matter of fact like.
"Great when do you want to go?"
"Well, I'd like to have a ring to show off. Do you have much PTO available?" Carly asked hopefully.
"I have a few days that I can use."
"Today is Thursday. We could go shopping for our rings tomorrow for our date and if we don't find one we can go Saturday."
"I don't know that I can handle shopping that long. How about I go to a movie and you shop for a ring?" I stated teasingly trying not to smile.
"How about I punch you in the face for making a stupid comment and you come shopping with me anyway?" Carly wasn't smiling.
"Will you kiss my better after you punch me in the eye?"
"I said I'd punch you in the face, and no, I would punch you in the nose and made sure it was broken. I might be nice enough to bring you some ice, but don't hold your breathe."
I was starting to get worried. My face must have showed it, because when Carly turned around she was smiling cunningly and said, "Gotcha!"
"My dear Carly you are very smooth. However, what makes you think that I wouldn't punch you in the face?"
In one of those damsel in distress, southern accents I hear, "You wouldn't do that to this pretty face now, would ya'?"
"Now that I you mention it Peachie, I would not do such a thing, because I'm a fine southern gentleman. However, I would do this."
Miss Carly found herself with her back on the floor and her arms pinned. This is when I discovered that little Miss Peachie has a weakness. Miss Carly Smith is extremely ticklish. The best part is, I don't have to even touch her. I act like I am going to touch her and she starts giggling like a little school girl.
Among tears, giggling and Carly trying to catch her breathe I hear pleas of mercy. This situation required some contemplation. "Um...this is interesting. You are here begging for mercy. I've not really done anything to warrant these cries of mercy. Carly, after all our time together, I have discovered one of your weaknesses. Um...very interesting.
"I know that I have shown you several of my weaknesses, but discovering this has been an exciting discovery." Pinning her arms over her head again I look into those deep blue eyes and claim, "I'm going to get up now and then, if you wish, I would be happy to help you up. Regardless if you let me help you up or not, it will cost you one kiss. Deal?"
Carly agreed.
It was getting late and I needed to head home. Carly walked me to the door and stood on her tippy toes to give me the kiss that I had required earlier. I could feel her heart beating. I could feel the warmness of her breath and smell of her perfume always took my breathe away. As she moved closer I closed my eyes in the anticipation of a sweet tender kiss. Before I knew what had happened, I was all wet. Without me noticing, Carly had picked up a glass of water and poured it over my head.
Shaking my head and spraying her with water I turned and walked out the door to my car. I left without a word.

Lullaby

Dinner Sunday night was fantastic. Carly does some mean spaghetti. It was good to sit and just talk. Our conversation didn't dive into anything to serious such as, talking about telling parents, friends, etc. We will let things take their course for the time being. I really like our plan for work. I really hate taking a lunch, though I do it to save some a little money. We decided that we will take turns bringing lunch. Our building has, for lack of a better idea, an observation deck. It has tables with umbrellas over them. The view of the city is pretty good. On bad days we can eat in the break room. Our agreement is that we will try whatever the other partner brings. I can handle tuna fish, but any other fish is out of the question. Carly said she will try just about anything. Look, I don't like to fix lunch, so she really doesn't have to worry too much.
What else did we decide?
I believe we decided something similar of dinner. Except dinner will be at Carly's place.
If I say that the first two weeks were great you may think that following weeks were much less than that. Suffice to say that after the first two weeks that it was time that the future Mrs. Owens and I started talking about some serious stuff.
I have to say that the last two weeks have been the most excellent of my life. I cannot remember life without Carly. I know I had one, but I seriously can't remember it. And I am okay with that. She is wonderful.

Wedding Rings?

An update: I have been reading this story to my class. I told them today that if I were to get this published I don't have a name for this book. I received 2 suggestions. The first is Cube 5 and second was Cube 5 and Me. I then asked that if I used one of these titles if I had to pay them royalties. The answer...YES.


After going to Carly's place and then mine we were out to shop for the ring. I had no idea how many jewelery stores there were in this city. I'm a guy I would care. I had no intention on needing a wedding forever. Marriage was the farthest thing from my mind.
We spent the day shopping. I will admit that when it comes to shopping I am a typical guy. We shopped til I dropped. I think Carly could have gone on for hours. We found 4 or 5 that we liked, but they weren't quite right. Two things I really appreciated about shopping: First and most important, I enjoyed just being with Carly. Most of our talk was small talk. I liked that we didn't have to talk and I didn't feel nervous. The second most important thing about shopping was that we found an ice cream shop and Carly bought me some. Obviously, Carly likes ice cream as much as I do.
"Carly, are we going to tell anyone at work about this weekend? I'm not friends with anyone at work really. I mostly show up to work and then go home. Now that I think about it you are the first friend that I have had since I moved here."
"I don't know if I should be happy about that or not."
"Be nice to me. I am your most favorite fiance." I said chuckling. Am I the only fiance that she has had?
"How do you know, Mr. Brian?"
"I guess I am assuming that you don't run around getting engaged to everyone that asks you to marry them."
"Well, Brian, you may never know will you?" Carly beamed.
"Miss Carly I have a confession."
"And that would be?" Carly asked with a raised eyebrow.
"I know for a fact that I am your only fiance...don't ask me how I know because that is a secret that I may share with you or may not."
"Oh great we have been engaged for about 24 hours and you're already keeping secrets from me. That's not a good way to start of our relationship." Carly stated with a look that was both jovial and serious.
"Carly, like a present on your birthday or Christmas all my secrets will be revealed, but in due time."
I wasn't looking forward to dropping Carly off at her apartment. I was sad knowing that I had to leave her. I don't remember a time in recent memory that I have felt so relaxed and happy. Content may be a more appropriate description, but content or happy or both, it felt good.
I have been engaged for more than 24 hours. This new status was sinking in. The more it marinated the better if felt. Not that I have to convince myself, but this is right. As I drove home in silence, I felt the rightness with every imaginable fiber of my being. Carly felt like home. The day's memories mixed with her perfume floated on the air.
In the coming days there were questions that needed to be asked and answered. Some of them may not be so pleasant. Of all the good this has done for me there is one thing I fear; going home to my family. I've not talked with any of them since I moved to the city. I have emailed mom to let her know that I was okay, but not much more than that.
Tonight is Carly's night. My thoughts quickly returned to her and a day of finding just the right wedding ring to match Carly.
Tomorrow night wasn't coming fast enough. If I brought a green salad and French bread Carly would make some spaghetti and a surprise for dessert.
I went to bed that night with the taste of Carly's kiss on my lips.

Brunch Continued

Our omelets came shortly after the juice. Holy Cow! I thought I was hungry, but I'm not sure I could handle what was set in front of me. The plate was oval shaped. The hash browns covered about 70% of the plate and the omelet covered the other 70% of the plate.
We both ate quietly over this massive amount of food. What I saw convinced me more that Carly was my kind of girl. She did not hesitate to dive right in; and she did it with gusto. I had to look under the table.
"What are you doin'?" Carly asked with some concern.
"I was looking to see if you had a hole in your leg." I said smiling.
"What do you mean by that?" There was no light bouncing in the those eyes. I think I just got myself in trouble.
"You are diving into that omelet with gusto."
"Sorry." I could see a tear well up in corner of her eye. Man, how do I fix this? I can't believe I have made her cry. I'm not even sure what I did. While these thoughts were going through my head Carly's excitement lessened and she pushed the plate away.
"What's wrong?" I asked hoping to fix the problem I had just created.
"Nothing." Carly lied.
"Ah, I may not be a smart man, but I know when something is wrong." I said in my best Forest Gump voice. That made the corners of her mouth turn up, but I could also tell that she didn't want to smile. "Carly, don't start clamming up on me. Eternity is a long time and we can't start off this way."
"I know Brian, I'm sorry, but your comment made me feel bad. I like to eat."
"Carly, most of the time girls don't show their appetite. I'm glad to see you digging in. I like the fact that you like to eat. It happens to be one of my best talents."
Carly began laughing. After that she started back into her omelet and hash browns.
"Um...Brian, I realize that you didn't intend on asking me to marry you last night, and I also know we touched on the idea that we want don't want to share our news, but when can we go get me a ring?" In the short time that I have known this women sitting before me I never thought I'd she her act a bit timid or embarrassed.
"Good question. Can I ask you a few questions, before answering?" She nodded. "Are you into big fancy kinds of things?
"I never thought about it much, so I can't answer that one." Carly said.
"Would you like to pick it out or do you trust me to do it?"
"I think I'd like to have some say in it. But it's not that I don't trust you."
"Fair enough." I say.
"How does this sound? I don't know about you, but I won't have to eat anything for the rest of the day. By the way this place is a great. How 'bout we go after we're done here, if you don't have plans for today?"
"Whatever I had planned was drastically changed last night. Today, I'm all yours."
"Just for today? Bummer." That brought the light bouncing in her eyes that I quickly fell in love with, again.
We finished our breakfast without much conversation. Carly paid the bill. I think I like that. We left and headed to her place.

Lunch/Brunch the Next Day

This is me facing my fear. Here it goes.


Carly took me to a Mom and Pop shop on the outside of town. I love these kinds of places.
"How did you find this place, Carly?"
"I was out driving one day, was hungry, and I came upon this place. I was feeling adventurous and stopped. They have the best breakfasts ever. I really like the omelet."
"Which omelet? I see several of them."
"Well, it doesn't matter. I have tried several of them and they all have been fantastic."
In the last 2 days I have come to love seeing the light that bounces in Carly's eyes. It is very playful. I wonder if light is always there, as in the rule and not the exception.
"Welcome, I'm Sam. I'll be your waitress, what can I get for you this morning?" Sam said with a smile.
"I'll take the largest orange juice you've got. And the Country Omelet with hash browns." Carly's eyes grew bigger as I ordered. "What? I'm hungry."
"And for you ma'am?"
"I'll take the Spanish Omelet with hash browns, and apple juice, if you've got it."
"Not a problem; I'll get that ordered. Be back in jiff with your juice."
"Thank you, Sam.
"How are this morning, Carly?"
"I'm fine. Should I be any different?" I just shook my head.
"You are an engaged women now."
"Yes, I am."
"Have you even told anyone?" Carly just shook her head. This surprised me. I thought women just ran around and tell everyone.
"Does that surprise you?" she asked reading my thoughts.
"Actually, it does. How come?" I ask quizzically.
"There are a couple of reasons. The first is that you and I have been on two dates. When I think about telling anyone I just can't think of a way to tell our story that will help them understand. How about you?"
"Well, I haven't told anyone pretty much for the same reason. Quite honestly, I am enjoying hiding this secret for how ever long."
"Me, too." Carly replied with a chuckle.
"What about your family, Carly?"
"Mom will be excited of course. My dad...well, that's another story. I'm not sure how to prepare you for him. I'm a daddy's girl. So, when he doesn't like you don't take it personal. If it was the dude next me with the red curly hair that picks his nose constantly. Heck, I could be engaged to Matt Damon and he would not be a happy camper."
"That makes me feel really good."
"What about you, Matt...I mean Brian?"
I was about to question who "Matt" was, but I caught it after a minute.
"My Mom will be cautiously excited."
"Cautiously?" Carly asked with raised eyebrows."
"I didn't necessarily leave home under the best circumstances. It's a long story. I promise I'll tell you about it."
"What about your Dad?"
"Dad, died a couple of years ago. I don't think he'll be a problem."
"Oh, I am so sorry. What happened?"
"He was working in the yard, mowing the lawn and had a heart attack. The ambulance had gotten him to the hospital. The staff were able to get him stabilized in the ER, but he died while he was on the operating table."
"How old was he?"
"He was 59."
"Are you okay to talk about it?"
"Oh, I'm okay with it. I made my peace long ago."
"Sorry, this has taken so long, but here is your juice. You omelets are next up." Sitting on the table in front of me was a quart jar full of orange juice. I don't care what the omelets taste like this place has just become my favorite place.
"Thank you." both of us said.

Taking a break from Brian and Carly

This is confession time. One of my friends couldn't believe that I have been showing my first draft. Honestly it has been fun. However, I am scared to continue. Seriously. I am seriously scared to continue. I don't really know the reason. I am not sure how to overcome this fear. I'm even more scared now that I've admitted it.

The Next Day

It didn't take long to get to the parking garage at work where my car was parked.
I slid into the driver side seat, put the key into the ignition, turned it, and the car started up perfectly. Carly looked at me with some suspicion in her face.
"What?"
"Is there something you need to share with me?" There wasn't any play in eyes or at the corners of her mouth. This was a serious question.
"I swear Carly the car would not start yesterday. I promise. Look at me Carly. Last night was a complete shoot from the hip. I had planned to go the coffee shop in one of the hotels downtown and then go to an art gallery. Why would I lie to you? The events of last night had never entered my mind."
"Brian, get out of the car. Look at me. Tell me that you didn't plan this."
"Would it change anything? Carly, cross my heart I did not plan anything that took place last night."
"Okay Santa Fe, I believe you. You fixed your car in record time. Again, I am impressed."
"I had better stop that. You'll be expecting me to impress you all of the time." I replied with a touch of worry. "I think you said something about brunch or lunch?"
"It's only 10:30."
"I believe that 10:30 is a perfect time for brunch. Please don't make it McDonald's I would vomit in your lap."
"First, Miss Carly lets take your car back to your place, and we can take mine."
"Actually, this is my date, we'll take your car back to my place and I'll drive."
"Fair enough." I wonder if I realized what a pistol my fiance was. Between you and me I kind-a-like it.

Date Cont., Cont., Continued

We left Mr. Tay...Sully and walked to where we could catch a cab. I never thought that walking holding hands would be so enjoyable. As we walked I found that I had retreated into my own little world. Again, not starting off on the right foot. When I finally came to myself, I saw that Carly, too, had regressed into what I hoped was reverie.
"I thought that I'd take you home and go back and see about my car." I said to Carly, bringing her back from whatever pleasant place she recessed to by the look on her face.
"I don't think so, Santa Fe."
"What do you mean Carly?"
"Tonight you went from being just you to us. We. A pair. Need I explain further?"
"No, you have explained enough." I replied a bit embarrassingly.
"What do you propose, my dear...dear...Carly?"
"Is that the best you can come up with?" Carly said while jabbing me in the ribs.
"At the moment, but something will present itself. Remember? I am the clumsy oaf that created my own nickname."
"That you did Santa Fe. But I still love you. The surprising thing is that I love you more now than I did the moment you asked. I know it sounds corny, but it's true. That is two surprises in one day. I'm not sure I can handle this."
"Ah, Miss Carly, what do you propose to do about my car?"
"Here we go Mr. Owens, we go to my apartment, you can take my car to your place. You come by in the morning, say, around 9:00. We go take care of your car, and then I take you out for brunch or lunch."
"I like the sound of that. However, there is one thing that you need to understand. It takes me four or five times longer than the normal person. Unfortunately, sometimes longer. It depends on what's wrong with whatever I am suppose to be fixing."
"That is fine with me, Brian, I am in this forever." Carly smiled.
"Good, that may be how long it will take." Brian laughed.
Considering the fact that we had just got engaged, I won't share the details of the door scene. Suffice it to say that it was ever bit as tender as the park. She told me where her car was parked and I headed for home.
I was emotionally exhausted, which led to physical exhaustion. Again, the drive home was a blur, as well as the nightly routine of showering, brushing teeth,...you get the drift. My head was scarcely on the pillow 10 seconds before I was asleep.
I was up at sunrise, managed to clean the place and was at Carly's apartment by 9:00 A.M.
"Morning Santa Fe. How'd you sleep?" Though it's not too early Carly is perky in the morning.
"Best sleep in a long time."
"Good, do you want a bagel, cream cheese, and o.j.?"
"Sure. Thanks."

Date Continued, Continued

"Hello, Brian. If I call you Carly, does that mean that I am considered your friend?"
"By all means yes." Carly replied joyfully.
"My name is Sully. Sully Tayler. And it's pleasure to meet the both of you."
"Carly, you have made an old man very happy. I am very grateful. Thank you oh so much. I had better let you two get on celebrating."
"Actually, you are the first to know about our news." Brian said.
"Well, yeah, I watched it happen."
"No, Mr. Tayler you don't unde..." cried Brian.
"Brian, my friends call me Sully; and I would be offended if you didn't consider me a friend."
"Oh, sorry." Brian replied sheepishly. "...you really are the first one to really know. To make it short. This is our first official date. Our second if you count that Carly coerced me into buying her an ice cream sundae yesterday. The first time I talked to her was just I after knocked her down as she was coming out of her cubicle on Wednesday at the office...yes two days ago."
"Well, blow me over and tickle me pink. How 'bout that? I have heard and seen a lot of things, but never anything like that." Sully chuckled.

The Big Date Continued

While we stood leaning against the fence I looked at our hands. I couldn't tell whose fingers belonged to who. I had heard this statement from others and have never quite understood it. Now I understand. I also understand that those that have this experience cannot really describe it to those who have not.
"Excuse me, but is this your camera?" an older man asked.
"Yes, it's mine." I replied.
"My intent is not to intrude, but something tells me that, if you don't mind, that you need a picture of this moment. May I?" he asked holding up my camera bag.
"We would love it." Carly said with eyes bright and beaming, and a smile that made my heart go pitter-patter.
"Let me guess. You two have just become engaged to be married?"
"Yes, how did you know?" Carly asked.
"Well there two ways that I know. The first is that I have been watching you since this young man started taking your picture here by Larsen Pond. The second is that any observant human being can tell by the look on your faces."
We placed ourselves so the pond was behind us and there was good light. You know, all those things that photographers worry about.
After the gentleman snapped a few pictures he said, "Son, hang on to her tight and treat her right. I lost my Claire a year ago and my arms ache to hold hug her again. I come to the this park, sit on a bench, and rest my hand on my leg with the palm up. Sometimes, just sometimes, I feel a light touch on my palm and between my fingers."
I am not sure if Carly is in the habit of running around and hugging strangers, but she stood and hugged this man around his middle. At first he was taken back, but soon he returned his hug. His face was content and happy. It wasn't Carly he was hugging it was Claire.
After a long embrace they let go of each other. Carly stepped back, "Sir, there are two things I need to do. Would you mind holding out your hand?" He did as was requested. His hands have seen many years of physical labor. I assumed that he was retired, but I could see that he still labored. There was some ground in dirt and some remnants of some grease that doesn't come off with soap and water.
Carly simply put her hand in his and looked into his eyes and conveyed as much love as a stranger could. With tears forming in his eyes he looked and said without words, Thank you.
Again, after a long silence, as the heart of young women and older gentleman spoke with feelings rather than words, Carly again spoke so quietly that both our new friend I had to lean closure, "That was the first thing that I need to do. The second...this is my fiance Brain Owens, and I'm the future Mrs. Brian Owens," Carly leaning closer, "but between you and me my friends call me Carly."

The Big Date

I had the perfect date planned; at least the way I define a perfect date. After I got home and changed I sat down and started brainstorming ideas. I hate planning first dates. I had narrowed my list down to 3 things, had some dinner, and played some video games. After losing a few games I decided to finish up my plans. I was excited, and looking forward to this date.
Friday morning I beat Carly to the office. When walked by she tapped on my "door" and winked at me. I took that as a good sign. With smile on my face I again uncharacteristically dove into my work, and very fortunately the day went quickly.
"Hey, Santa Fe, I'm ready for our date."
"Carly, did I ask you on this date or did you ask me?"
"You asked me." she replied with some confusion.
"Due to the fact that I am not picking you up at you place, I'd suggest you retreat back to your cubicle and let me come and get you."
"Okay, I'll just do that then. I didn't mean to offend you."
"No offense taken. I just want to be able to be a gentleman." I replied confidently, but gentle. That even surprised me. I've never at least felt this confident on a date before, let alone sounded this confident.
I walked by her cubicle and gave her the one minute sign. A man has to do a little primping, too. On the way back to my cubicle I flashed her another one minute sign. She sighed.
I put my stuff away in my desk and slowly walked to Carly's cubicle. After knocking I stoically stated, "I am here to pick up Miss Carly Adams. Is she in?"
She stood and replied, "I am Miss Carly Adams." She then held out her hand for me to take and kiss the back of. Being the gentleman that I am, I graciously did just that.
So far, so good I thought.
"I hope your are wearing comfortable walking shoes."
"I am." She replied.
"Great."
The walk to the car was silent, but comfortable.
"I hope you like good old American food." I stated with a smile.
"I do and I am starving."
"Let's go then."
The date was fantastic up until the point I turned the key. To keep in the theme of the last 2 days it was perfect. In terms of the perfect date it was not looking good. I turned the key again and nothing. "I should have known."
"You should have known what?"
"My car won't start. I don't have a clue why. I guess we're walking a little more than I thought."
"Plan B I take it?" said Carly. "I impressed."
"Why?" I asked quizzically.
"Most guys I know would be freaking out."
"Hey, Carly sit tight for just a second I'm not going anywhere. I've got to get something out of my trunk and I'll come open the door for you."
"Sure."
As I walked to my trunk I was more than curious to know what Carly was thinking right now. However, I was not going to ask that stupid question, "What are you thinking right now?" that some girls like to ask. At least that's the way the movies portray it.
Even with my car not starting I was pleasantly surprised that I wasn't frustrated and slamming things.
"May I take your hand to help you out of the our broken down chariot, Miss Adams?"
"Oh yes, dear sir."
This could be fun.
I had her fooled. This is not plan b, this is shooting from the hip. After getting to the ground floor we headed to a deli close by. I knew Carly had eaten there, so I knew that would be a safe place to eat. With sandwiches and Cokes in hand I flagged a taxi and headed to park.
"I'm still impressed. This is a pretty good Plan B."
"You don't come across as one to be easily impressed."
"I'll take that as a compliment, I think?"
"Good, you should. It was intended to be one, Carly."
Before leaving my car I got my camera out of the trunk. When taking pictures I am in my element. I took out my camera and started snapping pictures. I turned and got Carly while taking a bite of her sandwich.
Carly didn't disappoint.
"Do you have to take pictures of me and even when I'm eating?"
"Ah, yea. Some of those can make the best pictures. If I ever see that picture displayed anywhere I'll rip it up."
"That's okay, I can keep the original on file and reprint it."
"Brian, you wouldn't?"
"Yes I would." If I was able to look at myself I would have seen the biggest, honest smile that could be formed by my face.
"Carly, are you finished with this sandwich stuff?"
"Yes."
"Would you mind going for a walk around the park?"
"Oh, no not at all."
"Great. Let me take care of cleaning up the dinner dishes."
"You are quite the gentleman."
"Nah, not really. I'm trying to make a good impression. How am I doing?"
"You were doing pretty well...up until you made that last statement."
"Bummer, I take it back then."
The sidewalk we were on followed the shoreline of the pond. I led Carly to a fence and placed her against it. The pond was behind her and I had looking focus on something off to her right. I asked to think of a sad memory. The sun was in that late afternoon setting, not quite sitting on the horizon. It did shadow her face, but from the 2x2 screen on my camera it did have the right effect.
Then I turned her around and put the light of the sun on her face. This time I asked to her focus on something just above my head and behind me, with a pleasant, happy memory. I took several rapid fire shots as she slightly adjusted how she was looking.
I hung my camera around my neck and just stared at her.
"Carly?"
"Yeah."
"Marry me."
I'm not sure what my facial features said, but she just looked back at me. I could tell the question registered with her. Her silence didn't say, "Oh, how do I tell this guy no without hurting him.
"Brian, if desire me to answer that question seriously, I need to put your camera in the bag, kneel down right here in front of me and ask me again. It would be wise if you took my hands in yours."
I know when to do what I am told.
"Carly, will you marry me?"
What happened next, I will never forget. Carly leaned down and kissed me. Her kiss soft and tender, and reached into the depths of my heart. Those places that one never knows he has until moments like this. Carly's blue eyes sparkled. The light in countenance would have lit the city.
Looking into my eyes, "Brian, I will marry you."
Holding my hand as I stood up she kissed me again when I was on my feet.
Silence.
Holding hands we turned, leaned against the fence looking at our future that lay before us.

C5 P9

I had been in the restroom a long time and was wondering what to do next. I didn't want to be embarrassed like this in front of Carly again. I'm a praying type of guy and needed some help. So, I said a quick prayer, I need some help. Amen. Within 5 seconds Mike, the guy at the counter, came in. He was about to say something, but then saw my predicament. "Man, I'm so sorry. I thought I had the problem fixed last week.Don't worry I have just the thing." Mike was gone only for a minute and came back in with an extra apron. "Brian, I'm not sure which is worse wearing this work apron in public or having everyone think you had an accident."
"I'll take the apron any day 3 times on Sunday. Thanks Mike you're a lifesaver."
"Happy to do it. I am really sorry though."
"If I told you what has happened the last 24 hours you would think this is a walk in the park. I'll have to tell you about it sometime."
"I'll take you up on your offer, and I'll supply the ice cream." Mike said with a big smile on his face. "If Carly has anything to do with it...I'd love to hear that story."
I have known Mike all of about 30 minutes and I feel like I've known him forever. He's the second person in my life that has made feel that way.
"Holy Cow, I was about to call the Coast Guard or the plumber. I thought you had drowned. Why the apron?"
"Well, the faucet on the sink doesn't know which way the water is suppose to flow."
"Yea, sure it doesn't. Is there something you need to share with me?" she said grinning from ear to ear.
"Hey, Miss Carly if you don't believe me go in yourself and give it a whirl."
Carly and I made small talk on the way back to work. It was sometime between the ice cream shop and work that I realized that I didn't feel nervous being with Carly. She too felt comfortable to be around. I would say that I couldn't do anything more embarrassing around than I already have, but that would be a lie. Things can always get worse.
"Carly, I need a favor."
"What's that Santa Fe?"
"I need you to tell Amy that I've gone home sick, and I plan on being back tomorrow."
"You'd better be back tomorrow, we have a date remember?"
"How could I forget? Don't you remember? I make my dates pay for the outing."
"Brian, may I walk you to your car?"
"Aaah, sure."
The walk to the car was a comfortable quiet. On the drive home I was surprised by the comfortable quiet as we walked to the car. In the short time that I have watched Carly from afar or even the last 24 hours I always pictured her to always be talking. And not in a bad way either.