First Draft Complete!

Finally! My first draft of Hero in Cowboy Boots is complete! I've been working toward this goal for years. Now I'm jumping into the edits and rewriting phase. Not nearly as much fun or rewarding as the initial writings, but just as important. And this phase can be shared with anyone who has a working knowledge of spelling, grammar, syntax, and just seeing the same vision as I do. Namely, my beta readers.

I will be going through my manuscript looking for errors in the above elements: spelling, grammar, syntax, and conciseness. So if I send you a copy of my story to read, and you find any glaring errors, please, please send me an alert. I will be ever so grateful. And you'll get to read my story for free!

I'm rather proud of my story. I know there are areas where it needs work, more descriptive work in some areas, POV jumps, and changing passive verbs to active ones. And probably others that I haven't caught yet.

Why didn't I just change those things while I was writing? That is simple. I've tried that method before, and it bogged me down so much that I forgot what the main character was trying to do, and eventually just gave up. I've had that happen in at least five different stories. I hope to go back to each one and complete it, but right now, I just want to get this one published and in its best form.

I know everyone is very busy, and I respect that. But if you can just review one chapter for me, that will be a great help. So, if you read this post, and have a few minutes to spare, please contact me by email at dmbarnes@twinvalley.net, and I'll send you my first chapter. If you wish to read more, let me know. I will be so grateful.

Thank you.

Dixie

Writing on...

This book is coming along nicely. I had to stop and rearrange a couple of chapters that weren't working chronologically, but once I got that figured out, I've gotten a couple of chapters done just today alone. I'm getting close to finishing that first draft, and once I get that done, it all should go much quicker. I hope.

Dennis isn't feeling well today. Every since he had his radiation treatments, he's been fighting hormonal symptoms. Like hot flashes. I remember when I had them. I took some herbal therapies and those helped me a lot. However, Dennis has a weird body that doesn't respond to meds or herbs or anything. Taking a narcotic is like taking an M&M for pain. It just doesn't work for him. Sleeping meds don't work, and herbals don't work for his "hot flashes." 

He tells everyone I don't have any sympathy for him. If I remember right, he didn't have much sympathy for me, either. But it's not that I don't have sympathy for him. I just don't broadcast it to everyone I know. 

He's doing better than he did last year. Then he'd tell everyone about his intimate health issues, which was quite embarrassing to me. And he'd tell the same stories every week. A little Alzheimer's maybe? 

The kids are starting to see that in him, too. He tells the same fishing stories to them and they are starting to finish his sentences for him. I don't do that. I just let him drone on, mumbling, and halfway tune him out. Of course, with my hearing deficit, a lot of it I really don't hear.

I'm not wanting to complain, I just sometimes need to hear some new stories. After 55 years together, it's rare when I hear anything new.

Back to my writing. I've based a couple of my characters off of people I know well. Not exactly everything, but just little anecdotes will show up in some dialogue somewhere, or certain qualities, good or bad will sneak into my characters' personalities.

Writing gives me a chance to live in an alternate world, where I have control over what happens to my favorite characters and I can kill off the bad when they tick me off. What an awesome power!

I'm starting chapter 25 tomorrow afternoon (or Monday) and the next few chapters will build to the climax.  I can't wait!

For tonight, I'm going to relax with my favorite game, Wizard101.

Have a happy weekend.

Deleting Detritus!

It's Maizie and me again today. Dennis left about 8 a.m. and it's now a little after 2 p.m. He had a dentist appointment with a VA approved dentist in Junction City today.  Yesterday he had his teeth cleaned by another dentist. Why they couldn't have combined the two appointments is beyond my understanding, but it does give me a few hours of tv remote time. 👍

I've been working on my book this week. Not getting a lot of new writing done, but doing a little spell checking and fixing some inconsistencies. I have a couple of chapters that for some reason are not chronological, and that has been a challenge to get it straightened out. I may have to do some rewriting there before I post it for critiques.

I'd like to get some artwork done, but it's such a hassle to change out my little table from writing to art supplies. I need my office back. Organized I'm not. I have a box of blank white greeting cards that I'd like to make using my own artwork, but I'm just not motivated or inspired to get it done. 

It looks like it's been a rainy day today. I had no idea until I went out to the back porch to move something, and saw this huge puddle in the neighbor's lot. We could use the rain, so definitely not complaining.

I've been going through old mail and odds and ends in our living room. Throwing away old ads, bills, and sorting out things I want to keep takes a lot of time. But I'm starting to see a little difference in the room. Not much yet, but at least I can get through from the front door to the kitchen without knocking something to the floor. ;P

Ok. On to my next project. Cleaning off the computer desk that has been shanghaied for use as a collection spot for Dennis and his "junk" and things like salt and pepper shakers, scissors, some over the counter meds, tape, air fresheners...the lists goes on and on.

This post is an embarrassing one. How did I let this get this bad? Uh oh. He's home from the dentist. I'll be back! I hope.

Checking In

It's been a while since I've posted. 

Between graduations and parties for that, doctor's appointments, sorting  seasonal clothing and feeling exhausted and frustrations with keeping everyone happy, I'm just about washed out.

The dog has decided that all her belongings (toys, blankets, old slippers, socks and whatever else she has siphoned off from Dennis and me) and then she insists on keeping it on the floor in the lane of traffic. If one of us doesn't break a leg tripping on all of it, it will be a miracle.

There are severe storms predicted for tonight. I hope the electricity stays on at least. Last night we were without power for most of the night. I got up once in the night and could not see my hand in front of my face. It was like I had suddenly gone completely blind. It was rather scary. 

Dennis and I have spent a lot of time together this past weekend.  I'll be alone with Maizie most of tomorrow. Dennis has an appointment in Topeka tomorrow afternoon. Dental appointments! Uggh! I'd rather have major surgery!

HICB ch.11 wc1678

HICB ch.11 wc1678

Jayda kept up a constant stream of chatter as she was transferred from the elevator to the front door of the hospital. Mark had found an aide willing to help carry her belongings as he transferred from the wheelchair to the pickup seat. She argued with the staff that she could get up into the pickup seat by herself, even though she almost collapsed to the concrete driveway when she tried to stand.

“Ooops! I guess I’m not quite as strong yet as I thought. Thank the Lord I wasn’t holding little Mark Lee at the time.”

One of the nurses standing behind her replied, “That’s why we have those rules, Ma’am. Too many falls. Too many lawsuits.”

“I reckon that’s right. I’ll behave from now on.”

As the nurse opened the door to the backseat of the pickup, Jayda said, “Wait! I want to hold him in my lap.”

“No, Ma’am, all babies and small children ride in the back seat, facing the rear of the truck That’s an absolute rule. A law, even. Little Mark Lee rides in the back in his new car seat. Mom, you ride in the front seat next to Dad.”

Jayda blushed, and climbed up into the cab’s front seat, with the assistance of one of the nurses. Mark was busy loading her belongings into the pickup. He pretended not to hear what was being said, but a slight smile appeared on his face.

When everyone and everything was in the pickup and the doors were closed, Mark turned to Jayda and asked, “Do you need anything else from town while we’re here?  Any formula, diapers, or anything else?”

“No, the hospital sent a gift package with enough of all the supplies we should need for about a week. That was so generous of them! Everyone has been so kind to me, but especially you, Mark. How can I ever repay you? You even paid my bill, which must have been in the thousands! I don’t even know how much it was! Thank you so much, Mark. I promise I’ll repay you someday, as soon as I can.” Jayda put her head in her hands and sobbed. “I just feel so useless.”

Mark put his hand on her shoulder and squeezed gently.  “Jayda, Sweetheart---I know how difficult this must all be for you. But sometimes God answers our prayers with the people around us. You were praying for someone to save you, weren’t you? And I’ll bet you were worrying about how you’d feed and diaper Mark Lee. Right? Ok, well, maybe it’s not me and the staff at the hospital that deserve the most thanks. Maybe it’s God you should be thanking. It’s great to have your thanks, here and now, and the staff enjoyed having you with them for that short time, too. Didn’t they give you a warm good-bye when you left? Well, they get paid to take care of you, and I think they really enjoyed having you, because you are so grateful. We can buy a box of chocolates or a fruit basket and have it delivered next week. Or maybe you can deliver it yourself when you are stronger. Ok?”

Jayda smiled and nodded. “That sounds like a great idea.”

“All right then, let’s get little man home. I’ll bet he’d like to have a long nap, away from all the hustle and bustle of this hospital. We can pick out a nice card, and I’ll get a fruit basket made up for the hospital staff and next week we’ll deliver it.”

“Let’s go home, Mark,” she answered, her tears full of unshed tears.

“We’re outa here, Babe.”

Mark revved the engine and put the pickup in gear.

The nurses watching from the hospital door grinned at each other and hugged each other.

One nurse said to the other, “You know, it’s days like this that make me glad I’m a nurse. That was so romantic. She’s one lucky lady.”

“She certainly is. Lucky to be alive after being in that ditch in a tornado, for Pete’s sake! Lucky her baby was born so perfect without any prenatal care, and lucky she has that handsome young man to take care of her. I heard a rumor that he’s wanting to marry her. Isn’t that sweet? She says he’s not even the father. How rare is that? A handsome stranger rescues her from the jaws of death and then wants to marry her. That there is fairytale stuff!”

 

As they drove by the spot where Jayda’s car left ruts in the ditch, she shuddered and quickly looked away. She turned to Mark and asked, “You said there wasn’t any damage to my car, then? How can that be, when it was buried so deeply in that mud?

“I didn’t see any damage, but then it was covered in mud and debris. I’ll check again, when I wash all that mud off.  It ran fine, and I drove it to your house without any issues. You’ve kept it running pretty well?”

“I have them check the oil and other fluids at least once a month, and I really don’t drive it all that often. Just to town to get groceries and sometimes to mail a package for my business.”

“Oh, really? You have a business? What kind of business?”

Jayda laughed. “It’s really more of a hobby. I don’t make much from it. I sell costume jewelry online. It sells for only five dollars per piece, but it’s really pretty and people eat it up.”

“Cool. I’ll have to see it sometime. Do you have any men’s jewelry? I’m not a pretty boy, but I’ve seen some men wearing like a gold chain around their neck, or a bracelet made of braided cord. Do you have that kind of thing?”

Jayda smiled. “I sure do. And it does look very nice on men. I know some men feel threatened by things like that. I think that comes from their own insecurity. But I do sell quite a bit of men’s jewelry. When I get settled, I want to cook up a special supper for you to thank you for everything. You can look at the pieces I do have, and I can text you the link to my website, where you can look at more. It’s fun to shop for just that right piece.” Jayda’s face became quite animated when she talked about her business. She’s gorgeous, even without makeup.

As they pulled into her driveway, Jayda looked around anxiously.

“What’s wrong? Is there something not the way you left it?”

“No, I guess not. For a moment, I thought it looked like someone had been here. Tracks in the gravel. But then I remembered you had been here while I was in the hospital. So, everything’s cool.” She gave a tremulous smile, then busied herself gathering up her bags and purse.

“I don’t think Brad has been here lately, if that’s what you’re worried about. I’ve checked on your house every day and kept it locked up tight. Let’s get you settled in and I’ll check around the buildings again to make sure. Ok? Jayda?” he paused.  “Everything is going to be ok. Relax. Enjoy your son. I’m just a hop and a skip down the road, and if I get a call from you that you are in trouble, I can be here in about five minutes. Ok?” He touched her arm, then caressed her face.

“I’m here for you, Jayda. Let’s get this little man into his own bed so he can relax. Are you hungry or thirsty? I can fix something for you to eat. I know there are cold soft drinks in the fridge, ‘cause I put them there to cool. You like Dr. Pepper, don’t you? I stocked your fridge with cold drinks, fruit drinks, and a six pack of beer. There’s also fixings for salads, some meats, and vegetables. I saw some chips and dips in the refrigerator too.”

“Wow, Mark. You haven’t left anything for me to do; have you also cleaned and straightened my house? Made my bed, done my laundry?” Jayda joked.

Mark blushed and dropped his head.

“Well, uhhh---actually---yesss, I did do all of that too.”

Jayda stared at him, her mouth open in shock. Her eyes were like saucers. Saucers that were threatening to overflow with tears.

“Mark, what happened to our backing up and slowing down. I didn’t mean for you to take over all of my life!” Then realizing she had been rude, she covered her mouth with her hand and stared at him with a horrified expression.

“Oh Mark, I’m so sorry! That was incredibly rude of me! Please forgive me!” The tears that had been close to falling before ran unheeded down her face.

Mark had looked guiltily at her, then his expression turned to sorrow. He knew he was supposed to back off, but he just couldn’t. He was having too much fun playing the hero, and he just cared too much for her and her son to back away. But if she really didn’t want him---he opened his door and hurriedly came around to her side of the truck. Opening the door, he helped her down and gently made sure she could stand without falling, then retrieved the baby carrier and assisted both of them to the house. He set the carrier down on the porch stoop while he fished out the house keys and opened the door.

He assisted them inside and settled them down on the sofa, then retrieved her belongings and all the baby’s and put them on the kitchen counter.

“Ummm, I’d better get back to my place. It’s hot and the cattle will need water. I’ll check on you later.” He gave her one last look, turned, and left. A moment later, she heard his pickup start and then heard him leaving quickly down the road. He was gone, and he hadn’t even said he forgave her.

 

 

 

 

HICB Ch. 10 wc 1437

HICB Ch.10 wc1437

The nurse visited with Jayda about resources she could use for after her discharge from the hospital. Jayda listened attentively, knowing she would need all the resources she could get. She looked over the pamphlets the nurse had given her, and asked questions about things that she didn’t understand.

After the nurse left, Jayda sighed and worried about what she had gotten herself into. She folded her hands and closed her eyes in prayer:

Lord, help me to understand and put all of this in perspective, so  that I may care for my son the way he deserves. Please let me care for Mark Lee without interruption and further abuse from his birth father. Help me to protect him. I love him so much, despite his father’s abandonment. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Jayda checked the bathroom and the furniture around her room, gathering up any personal belongings, and bagging them for moving back home. Then she peeked into Mark Lee’s bassinet. He was lying quietly, looking up at her. She picked him up and cuddled with him in the chair beside the bed. She murmured soft love words to him, while she waited for Mark to arrive. He promised he would be there to pick her up by 11 a.m. It was now 10:45 a.m.

She heard his boots striding down the hall and smiled. He was early, and she thanked God that she was ready. All she had to do was talk to the business office and beg for them to allow her some time to pay her bill. A frown on her face indicated her level of anxiety over that darned bill. Oh well, too late to worry about it anymore. He was almost to her room.

A scent of aftershave right outside her door, as he talked briefly to a nurse about the logistics of getting her into his pickup made her smile. He always thought of everything. He was so good to her.

Thank you, Lord, for sending your angel Mark to save me the other night, and even now, he is saving me and protecting me. May he never regret it, and always be my friend. I’d love for it to be more, but that will take more time. Thank you Jesus. Amen.

Finally, he appeared in the open doorway, and Jayda smiled when she saw his happy grin.

“Hi, pretty lady, are you ready to leave this joint?” He took his hat off and entered the room. Looking around, he saw several bags with her personal belongings, the flowers, and a few gifts on her bedside table. He came closer and with a long finger, pulled the blanket back so he could see little Mark Lee.  The baby peered up at him and blinked.

“Hey little man, are you ready to go home?” Mark touched the baby’s cheek and smiled. “He’s so adorable. Someday, I’ve got to get one of these for myself.”

Jayda, startled, looked up at him. He wants a baby? Really? I wonder---

“Are you ready to leave? Is there anything else  you need to do before we go? I’ve got plenty of time, so don’t feel rushed.”

“Hi, Mark. I certainly am ready to leave. I can’t wait to get home where I can be comfortable with Mark Lee. I do need to stop by the  business office before I leave, though. I’ve got to ask for an extension on my bill. I just don’t have the money to pay it right now. I think I might have twenty dollars in my purse, and maybe a hundred dollars in my bank account. Do you think they’ll understand?”

“Jayda, I something to tell you. I stopped by the office the last time I was here, and I paid your bill in full. You don’t owe them, or me, anything at all. So anything else you need to do?” Mark grinned.

Jayda struggled to get out of her chair with the baby in her arms. Her face had turned white with shock. Mark helped her to stand, and when she reached out to hug him, tears flowing freely from her eyes, he wiped them away with his thumbs. She was speechless, but the expression on her face told him all he needed to know. He put his arms around her and the baby and held her gently.

It was the first time since he had rescued her from the ditch and left her at the hospital that he had held her like that, and he enjoyed every second of it. It just felt so right, holding them in his arms. It felt natural, like he should be there with them, and not just for the moment, but forever.

Jayda struggled to speak. She was so shocked and overcome with emotions. She was feeling anger, because, once again, he had broken their agreement to be just friends, and had taken on her debts, and yet, it seemed so natural that she would be in his arms. She wished it was a permanent situation---that they could be together always.

Follow your heart.

The inner voice she had heard the night before echoed in her brain. She had almost forgotten that. But how did that translate to what was happening now? He hadn’t asked her for a permanent relationship. Had he?

“Come on, Babe. Let’s get you home,” Mark said quietly. He turned to the bedside table and grabbed several of her bags, and walked to the door. Just outside the door was a wheelchair. He brought it in and wheeled it to stop just in front of her. He turned it to a ninety degree angle to her and with a wave and a bow, he declared, “Your chariot, my Queen!” He reached out and took little Mark Lee from her arms and held him while the nurse, who had suddenly appeared in the room, helped Jayda to sit in the wheelchair, then turned it to face the door.

“Oh I don’t need this thing. I can walk to the pickup!” Jayda argued.

“Oh, no you can’t. I’m parked a ways away. It was a struggle in this heat for me to walk the distance,” he winked at the nurse, who winked back at him.

“Actually, dear, it’s hospital rules. No one leaves through that front door without a chariot. Liability issues, you know. You can hold your son while Mark carries your bags, and I’ll push your chariot to the door. Once we get there, you’ll sit there and wait with me for Mark to bring the pickup to the front door. Then we’ll get you all loaded up, and you can go home. Once you get there, be very careful walking, you might feel a little weak for a few days. You already have the doctor’s orders in your paperwork, be sure to make those appointments, and keep them! A home health care nurse will visit you in a few days to see how you are doing, and make assessments of you and the baby. Do you understand all of this?”

“Yes,” Jayda sighed. “I’ll behave myself. And I’ll take good care of Mark Lee.”

“I’ll be around and check on her very frequently, too,” Mark chimed in. I’ve made it my mission to take care of her.”

“You’re doing a great job of it, too, Mr. Reeves,” the nurse added.

The little procession moved to the elevators, which was located right across from the nurses’ station. Nurses who had helped take care of the mom and baby dropped what they were doing to come and give Jayda hugs and congratulations wishes. Many had tears in their eyes.

The elevator opened, and Mark entered and held the door open for the nurse and the wheelchair. He grinned and said a loud ‘thank you” to all the nurses. They all waved and grinned back at him.

When the elevator doors closed, one of the nurses said to another, “you know, she calls that hunk her ‘hero in cowboy boots’?” She grinned and wiped a stray tear from her eye. The other nurse nodded and replied, “I’ve heard her say that, and I think it’s true. He did rescue her from a situation that could have been very dangerous. He’s so gorgeous: tall, dark hair, blue eyes, and so romantic!”

“Yes, he is! If I was about twenty years younger and not married, I’d be wanting to spend some time with him!” she sighed “She is one lucky woman!”

“That’s for sure!” They both signed in unison and then turned back to their work.

 

.

   ess:

HICB Ch.9 wc964

HICB Ch.9 wc964

Mark delivered all the baby supplies he had purchased to her place and wished he could put them away. He wasn’t sure which bedroom was meant to be the nursery. She hadn’t decorated any particular room yet. He felt a little like Santa Claus as he brought boxes and bags and piles of baby things into her house and picked a likely room right across the hall from her bedroom. 

He set up the crib, and put a little mattress pad, and crib sheet on the bed, then installed the little animal mobile. He put some stuffed animals in the crib, not too many, he didn’t want to suffocate the little guy. He folded a baby blanket with farm animal babies and placed it at one end of the crib.

When he felt he had done all the damage he could, he closed the door to the room and locked the house. Driving toward town, he couldn’t help but grin, and he increased his rate of speed. He couldn’t wait to see the expression on Jayda’s face when she saw all that he had done.

Arriving at the hospital, he suddenly thought, “How is she paying for all of this bill?” He stopped by the business office and asked to see someone about Jayda Michaels’ bill. He was led to an office, where he sat and waited briefly. A nice middle-aged lady with a sweet smile came in through the door carrying a mug of hot beverage, coffee, he decided, by the pleasant aroma.

“Hello? My name is Judith Collins. I’m head of finances here at Salina Regional. May I help you?” she smiled.

“Umm, yes, I want to ask about Jayda Michaels’ bill. I’m not related, yet. I’m hoping to marry her as soon as possible, and I know she doesn’t have any insurance, and no money to speak of and---” he stammered when he realized he was running on and on.

“I’m sorry, but HIPPAA laws don’t allow me to discuss her case with you. Only her list of contacts can have access to any information. If you speak with her and ask her to let us put you on her list, then and only then can we discuss anything to do with her case. Do you understand?” She looked apologetic but firm. “Tell me, have you asked her to put you on her list?”

“Well, no---but I was hoping to pay the bill and surprise her. A kind of gift for the baby, you know?” He was holding his hat and turning it around in his fingers. He realized he was doing it and stopped. He looked down and a sad expression came over him.

“Oh, how sweet!” she said, smiling tenderly at him. She looked at him for a few seconds, assessing his intent. “Mr. uhhh---what is your name? I didn’t catch it”

“I’m sorry. My name is Mark Reeves. I was the one who found her and her car in the ditch the night she delivered Mark Lee. She was so thankful she named him after me. I didn’t expect that but was so honored. And well, I just want to help her anyway I can.” Mark flushed, embarrassed.

“Oh, how precious! Let me see what I can do, ok?” She stood, beaming down at him, then left the room. A few moments later, she returned and sat down in her chair. “The nurse is helping Jayda add you to her list of contacts. As soon as you are added, then we can discuss her bill. That is so sweet for you to help her this way.”

“Well, Ma’am, it’s like this. When I saw her in that ditch, and she was having all those contractions that were just racking her with pain, I just seemed to fall in love with her at first sight. Can you believe that?” Mark looked down, embarrassed. His hat started revolving around the brim again.  He always did that when he was embarrassed or nervous. “I want to ask her to marry me, as soon as I can.”

At that point, the woman began to tear up. His confession was so romantic, and she instantly prayed that the two of them could have a wonderful marriage and a beautiful family together.

Her phone rang, and she answered. She listened for a few moments and then returned the receiver to its cradle. “Mr. Reeves, you are in luck. The nurse asked Jayda if she would like to add you to her list of contacts, and she said yes. So, we can discuss her bill now, ok?”

“Great! How much is the total?” The lady looked at her computer and scrolled a way, then looked up at him and gave him a figure.

“Wow! Babies are expensive, aren’t they?” He dug out his wallet and handed her a credit card.

“Yes, they certainly are, thank you so much for doing this. It certainly makes things simpler for us, and for Jayda. I hope it doesn’t inconvenience you too very much.”

“No, my credit is excellent, so I always have new credit cards. I haven’t used this one before. If it doesn’t clear, I have others.”

“Actually, it did clear, Mr. Reeves. Thank you very much. Is there anything else I can help you with today?”

“No, I don’t think so. Are we all done on the bill now? I’d like to go see Jayda and Mark Lee now.”

“Of course, Mr. Reeves. Again, thank you very much. And the best of luck with your proposal and future together.”

“Thank you, Ma’am. I may need all the luck I can get.” Mark stood and placed his hat back on his head. He turned and left her office, headed toward Jayda’s room.

HICB Ch. 8 wc828

HICB Ch.8 wc828

Jayda sighed as she gathered her personal belongings from her hospital stay and placed them in the bag the nurse provided. She forced herself to relax, but the problems on her mind refused to disappear. The bills, the added responsibility of caring for herself and an infant, Brad’s hostility and abuse, and her growing attraction and dependency on Mark: all contributed to her anxiety.

Her nurse had offered something medical to help with her anxiety, but that would only add to her bill, and it wouldn’t help long-term, which is what she needed. She prayed for a quick save, but didn’t really believe there could be anything like that coming for her.

Her mind drifted back to her hero in cowboy boots. Was Mark her savior? Was she pushing him away when he was what God had sent to save her? How could she know for sure? Jayda prayed again for wisdom and reassurance. A thought came to her. Just follow your heart.

“Really, God? Is it that simple? How can it be so simple?” Jayda smiled, remembering how Mark looked at her, his tender touch, his desire to help almost drove him to her.

Is he the one, Lord? The thought came again, just follow your heart.

“Ok, Jesus, I’m letting go of these problems and giving them to you. Please let Mark be the answer to my prayers. I think I’m falling in love with him, and Lord, I do think he feels something for me, too. He hasn’t said he loves me yet, but I can see it in his eyes, his touch, and the way he looks at Mark Lee. I think we could be so happy as a family together.”

Jayda looked upward and smiled. “You know all I’ve ever wanted was for someone to love me, and now to love Mark Lee as well. I don’t need diamonds and pearls. I don’t desire fancy vacations or a fancy home. I’m just a simple country girl, who wants to cook and clean and maybe sell my costume jewelry to friends locally. I want a man to help me pay some of the bills. I’ll work hard to help him. But please, dear Lord, let Mark be the one!”

Just follow your heart.

“Thank you, Lord. I will.”

Jayda peeked in at Mark Lee, sleeping peacefully in his bassinet, making little sucking movements with his mouth, his fat little cheeks slightly flushed. His long eyelashes brushed his cheeks. Tiny fists stretched upward toward the ceiling, and he yawned, his tongue sticking out briefly before his mouth closed and he returned to his nursing-like movements.

Jayda’s heart melted as she watched her son. Her heart expanded even more than it did when she first saw him.  How could someone love another human being so much? And she was ready to invite another human into her heart.

Please God, she begged.

Follow your heart.

Jayda turned the light down until it was just a nightlight and settled down to sleep. Thy will be done, Lord.

Jayda, go to sleep. I’ve got it covered.

Jayda smiled as she drifted off into sleep, to dream of the three of them living together as husband and wife and son. What a beautiful dream.

 

 

Mark awoke with the sunrise, yawned, stretched, and arose to meet the day. He took time to fry up some bacon and eggs and toast with grape jelly. He read his mail as he ate at his breakfast table, then headed toward the barn to do chores.

His animals greeted him eagerly, as they always did, and he raised his face toward Heaven.

“Thank you Jesus for this beautiful warm day. The sun is smiling down at me, and I can imagine it is you, Oh Lord, smiling and telling me this will be a great day. I feel that too. I’m bringing Jayda back home to her farm. Lord, I pray that you will protect her and help her with her problems. I want to help, but she resists my assistance at times. How can I make her feel love for me? How can I gain her trust? I would make her mine if she would take me---in an instant, Lord. How can I help her best?”

Just follow your heart.

“What? Who said that?” Mark turned around to see no one standing there. The voice he had heard sounded like someone talking to him there in his barnyard.

Follow  your heart.

Mark spun around again. What on earth is going on? Suddenly, it occurred to him  Could this be God speaking to him? He looked up, and the sun smiled down on him. He crossed himself, and said, “Thy will be done, Lord.”

He grinned as he finished his chores, then returned to the house to take a shower and change. He was bringing his sweetheart home today with little Mark Lee. It was going to be an awesome day!

 

 

 

 

 

Hero in Cowboy Boots Ch. 7 wc 944 Jayda Comes Home

Mark left the hospital and drove to Walmart. He picked up a few grocery items for himself and for Jayda. Milk, bread, pork chops, hamburger, cheese, pickles, mustard, potatoes, toilet paper and a cake that read “welcome home!” in blue letters on cream colored frosting all went into his cart. He also picked up a card that read “Thank You” on the front and that was blank on the inside. He planned to write his own words on the inner portion of the card.

He drove to Jayda’s farm and checked outside to make sure there was no damage from the storm or rabid boyfriends. He carried the groceries to the front door and let himself in with the key Jayda had given him. 

He put the groceries away and checked the inside of the house like outside. He found some trash in the garbage can and gathered it up in a large trash bag. On the top of the kitchen bag, he glimpsed a crumpled-up note on ruled notebook paper. He could see large handwritten words in all capital letters. Curious, he picked it up, and smoothed it out. Guiltily, he read the words and took in a sharp ragged breath. He found a gallon size Ziplock bag and put the note inside and sealed it. He would have to deal with this situation once and for all.

He looked up Brad Jenkins in the phone directory and found his address and phone number. Mark wrote it down on an envelope in his pickup truck. Then he locked the house up again and drove back to his own farm.

After his evening chores, Mark ate a quick supper, then placed a call to Brad’s house.  After four rings, a female voice picked up the phone.

“Hello?” The voice sounded young, maybe about twenty or twenty-five years old.

Mark hesitated, unsure if it was the right number. He checked his cell phone screen. Yep, it was the same number he had written on the envelope. Mr. “I’m not ready for Marriage” must have a new Sweetie.

 A asked politely. 

“Certainly, Mr. Reeves. Just a moment, please,” Mark could hear footsteps followed by a door being opened. A masculine voice, in an irritated tone, said, “What is it this time, Monica? I’m trying to work on this proposal, and you keep interrupting me.”

“I’m sorry, Brad. You have a call on line two. Can you take it, or shall I take a message?” Monica, who must be his secretary, replied. Mark faintly heard Brad on the other end of the call.

“Oh, just what I need, another distraction. Very well, I’ll take it. But the next time the phone rings, just disconnect or let it go to voice mail. I’ve got to get this done, or I’ll lose the account.”

Mark heard Monica say “Yes, sir. I won’t bother you again.” Then he heard a click and Brad spoke in a brusque tone.

“Brad Jenkins, Farm Equity and Associates, may I help you?”

“I hope you can, Brad. I’m Mark Reeves, and I believe we have a common acquaintance, Miss Jayda Michaels. Am I correct?”

“I know Jayda. What’s this all about? I’m a busy man and I don’t have time for social chit chat!”

“Well, Brad, I’m a good friend of hers, and I have reason to believe you have been stalking her, threatening her, and being a general nuisance to her. I want it to stop! Now!”

Scoffing, Brad replied, “I don’t know what in tarnation you are talking about. Jayda and I had a relationship once. A very intimate relationship. But it’s all over now and we don’t even speak any more. So you can take your threats and accusations and leave me the hell alone!” He slammed the phone down, and Mark heard the dialtone.

Mark hung up his phone and smiled. Let’s just see what Mr. Jenkins does now.

Mark walked out to his pickup and grabbed the box with the new car seat and installed it in his pickup. He had newborn Pampers diapers, baby wipes, and a baby care kit, with lotions, powders, and other baby needs in a box on the back seat of his pickup truck. A baby mobile was on the front seat beside Mark. Little farm animals rotated around under the umbrella with  sweet baby music playing. Mark grinned when he imagined little Mark Lee lying watching that mobile. The only better thing would be if it were all at Mark’s house and Jayda was hanging on his arm, not Brad’s.

 

Jayda fed Mark Lee and placed him gently in his little bassinet.  She worried that she didn’t have all the things she needed for him. But she had no money to buy them, and she didn’t even know how she would pay the hospital bill for her stay.  Thank God that Mark Lee was born healthy and didn’t have any physical problems. It would have been a financial disaster for her if he’d had deformities or breathing issues, or anything like that.

She wondered if she should sell the farm and move into town. She didn’t want to do that. Rent would be expensive and other bills would be more as well. But she might have to think about that. One of the office staff had just left, asking her how she planned to cover the costs that were rising every day. They wanted her to pay when she was released. There just wasn’t any way. Tears ran down Jayda’s cheeks as she sobbed quietly. Would the problems ever stop? What else could possibly go wrong?

 

 

 

Mark left the hospital and drove to Walmart. He picked up a few grocery items for himself and for Jayda. Milk, bread, pork chops, hamburger, cheese, pickles, mustard, potatoes, toilet paper and a cake that read “welcome home!” in blue letters on cream colored frosting all went into his cart. He also picked up a card that read “Thank You” on the front and that was blank on the inside. He planned to write his own words on the inner portion of the card.

He drove to Jayda’s farm and checked outside to make sure there was no damage from the storm or rabid boyfriends. He carried the groceries to the front door and let himself in with the key Jayda had given him. 

He put the groceries away and checked the inside of the house like outside. He found some trash in the garbage can and gathered it up in a large trash bag. On the top of the kitchen bag, he glimpsed a crumpled-up note on ruled notebook paper. He could see large handwritten words in all capital letters. Curious, he picked it up, and smoothed it out. Guiltily, he read the words and took in a sharp ragged breath. He found a gallon size Ziplock bag and put the note inside and sealed it. He would have to deal with this situation once and for all.

He looked up Brad Jenkins in the phone directory and found his address and phone number. Mark wrote it down on an envelope in his pickup truck. Then he locked the house up again and drove back to his own farm.

After his evening chores, Mark ate a quick supper, then placed a call to Brad’s house.  After four rings, a female voice picked up the phone.

“Hello?” The voice sounded young, maybe about twenty or twenty-five years old.

Mark hesitated, unsure if it was the right number. He checked his cell phone screen. Yep, it was the same number he had written on the envelope. Mr. “I’m not ready for Marriage” must have a new Sweetie.

 A asked politely. 

“Certainly, Mr. Reeves. Just a moment, please,” Mark could hear footsteps followed by a door being opened. A masculine voice, in an irritated tone, said, “What is it this time, Monica? I’m trying to work on this proposal, and you keep interrupting me.”

“I’m sorry, Brad. You have a call on line two. Can you take it, or shall I take a message?” Monica, who must be his secretary, replied. Mark faintly heard Brad on the other end of the call.

“Oh, just what I need, another distraction. Very well, I’ll take it. But the next time the phone rings, just disconnect or let it go to voice mail. I’ve got to get this done, or I’ll lose the account.”

Mark heard Monica say “Yes, sir. I won’t bother you again.” Then he heard a click and Brad spoke in a brusque tone.

“Brad Jenkins, Farm Equity and Associates, may I help you?”

“I hope you can, Brad. I’m Mark Reeves, and I believe we have a common acquaintance, Miss Jayda Michaels. Am I correct?”

“I know Jayda. What’s this all about? I’m a busy man and I don’t have time for social chit chat!”

“Well, Brad, I’m a good friend of hers, and I have reason to believe you have been stalking her, threatening her, and being a general nuisance to her. I want it to stop! Now!”

Scoffing, Brad replied, “I don’t know what in tarnation you are talking about. Jayda and I had a relationship once. A very intimate relationship. But it’s all over now and we don’t even speak any more. So you can take your threats and accusations and leave me the hell alone!” He slammed the phone down, and Mark heard the dialtone.

Mark hung up his phone and smiled. Let’s just see what Mr. Jenkins does now.

Mark walked out to his pickup and grabbed the box with the new car seat and installed it in his pickup. He had newborn Pampers diapers, baby wipes, and a baby care kit, with lotions, powders, and other baby needs in a box on the back seat of his pickup truck. A baby mobile was on the front seat beside Mark. Little farm animals rotated around under the umbrella with  sweet baby music playing. Mark grinned when he imagined little Mark Lee lying watching that mobile. The only better thing would be if it were all at Mark’s house and Jayda was hanging on his arm, not Brad’s.

 

Jayda fed Mark Lee and placed him gently in his little bassinet.  She worried that she didn’t have all the things she needed for him. But she had no money to buy them, and she didn’t even know how she would pay the hospital bill for her stay.  Thank God that Mark Lee was born healthy and didn’t have any physical problems. It would have been a financial disaster for her if he’d had deformities or breathing issues, or anything like that.

She wondered if she should sell the farm and move into town. She didn’t want to do that. Rent would be expensive and other bills would be more as well. But she might have to think about that. One of the office staff had just left, asking her how she planned to cover the costs that were rising every day. They wanted her to pay when she was released. There just wasn’t any way. Tears ran down Jayda’s cheeks as she sobbed quietly. Would the problems ever stop? What else could possibly go wrong?

 

 

 

Wrecks

Enjoying some nice weather this week, but it's supposed to be cooler this next week with temps going back down in the thirties and highs in the forties some days. 

It doesn't bother me too much, because I'm inside most of the time, but it makes it hard for Dennis to work on his "projects" and that makes him kind of irritable.

I know he doesn't feel well, his back is painful almost all the time, and he's got some other pains that are not printable. I try to be patient with him, but I'm going through my own aches and pains. Mine are mild compared to his. His pains make him fearful that one of his cancers have come back, or spread to another part of his body. Talk about stress, for both of us.

It's times like this that I lean on God to help give me peace, compassion and understanding. If I could take his health issues onto myself and spare him, I gladly would. His crosses are heavy, but I've survived many health issues too. I'm not one to complain. I prefer to go into the bathroom or bedroom and close the door and suffer in silence. 

I went to my ENT doctor yesterday to see if perhaps my balance problems could be due to my inner ear problems. He talked so fast---I could only understand part of what he said. I'll go into my health portal online and read his progress notes, then I'll understand what's going on. 

I need to get back to writing on my book. I've come to a crossroads in the plot and haven't decided which way to take it. My brain has been fuzzy lately. I don't know if its my meds causing it, or early dementia. When I was at the doctor's office yesterday, I couldn't put three words together to make a sentence, and my memory is slipping. 

Getting old sucks.

Today and this entire past week has been a mess. 

The weather isn't too bad. Cool and windy. Perfect for riding my trike downtown to run some errands. Made an appointment at the beauty shop for a hair trim. 

Then I wandered down to where I took my computer last time it needed a tune-up. That was a bust. A young lady was just closing the door. She saw me and asked me if she could help me. I told her I was wanting to get my computers tuned up. She told me the computer guy had moved his business to his house.

I can understand that. Rent is outrageous, and you add utilities and other expenses and it's about impossible to make any money, especially in a small town. She did give me his wife's number so I can set up an appointment through her.

The library was my next stop. Grabbed a few books from the Weedy Shelf, a program I started when I worked there. I'm gratified to find it's still a working program. I have way too many books in my collection, but I'm willing to part with many of them, if I just knew where to take them.

From there, I headed on home. I was pretty well winded by the time I got to the house. Dennis has been out of town to a doctor's appointment in Topeka, so I've had the day to myself, except for my dog, who has been a bad dog all week. It's my fault for not training her better, but why can't animals be smart enough to stay in the yard and not running down the middle of the street. As I opened my door to leave for art club yesterday, she slithered out beside me and took off running across the street to the neighbor across the street. He wasn't home, so she ran back to our yard and ran her "zoomies" all around the yard. Impossible to catch that dog when she does this. 

I was late for club, so I called Dennis on his cell and told him she was loose in the yard. He cursed up a blue streak and asked "Who let her out?" I told him she had slipped through the door and was out before I saw her. He was not a happy camper.

Art club was enjoyable, except for a brief discussion on the relationship between the Catholic faith and Halloween. Don't ask me how we got on that topic. I have no idea. I made a comment and both the other members unanimously disagreed with me. When I got home I looked it up and apparently, they were right and I was wrong. That stung a little.

I'm working on Chapter 21 in my novel, Hero in Cowboy Boots. I've come to a crossroads with my book, and need to do some rereading to decide which way I want to take it.

So for now, I'll just keep plugging away, and praying that my story makes sense when it's done.

Update

Just a quick update on my situation.

I've been busy for the past few weeks with my writing. At this point, I'm ready to start writing Chapter 21 in my book, Hero in Cowboy Boots. I've been trying to write at least three chapters a week, but life sometimes has other plans. 

 

I've got several friends, both online and personal, who are reading my writing and offering "nits" (short for nitpicking or criticisms), which has been very helpful. And writing from an outline has been helpful. Prior to this book, I've always written "by the seat of my pants" which I have always said are way too big. Or maybe it's me being too big for my britches. 

On the other hand, I'm also working on my art. The Clifton Art Buffs has a project where we each take turns displaying a new piece of artwork and I have to get something framed and ready to hang on the Kaw Valley State Bank's wall. They have generously supported our local art group by allowing us to display there, and they also support local small businesses by allowing displays  of their products. 

For example, one of our Art Buffs members has a toy shop in Clifton, and she had a very nice display of some of her toys and dolls in a display case. I"m not certain if it is still being displayed, but I've been through her toy shop and it is a very unique experience. I've never seen so many dolls and toys. Many of them are replicas of famous people or cartoon characters, and many of them are valuable antiques. If you find yourself driving through Clifton, Kansas, it's worth a stop to check this place out. 

My house is being overrun with plastic totes of things that we need to put into storage. And there are also tons of things that need to be put into even more totes. I have been a book collector for decades, and my hobby has outgrown my space. I would give my books away, but not certain where to donate them. 

So, if I ever get caught up with all of this, I'll be looking for a chance to do more art.

Hope to post again soon. Please comment if you are reading this. You can comment on my blog here, or by email to dmbarnes@twinvalley.net.

Hero in Cowboy Boots: Chapter 6

I'm currently writing Chapter 17 of my book, Hero in Cowboy Boots, and I'm relying on several sources for criticisms of my chapters as I post them. I have two groups reading them in WVU, and I return the favor to them as they post their work. I'm hoping to finish the rough draft of this book soon, so I can finish the rough draft of my other book, A Door in Time.

In the meantime, I'm posting my rough draft chapters here as well. So if you read this, please be aware that the chapters may change somewhat as I incorporate the criticisms my readers suggest in the final draft. 

With that being said, here is my first draft of Chapter 6 of Hero in Cowboy Boots:

HICB Ch. 6 V.1 wc959

Backing up

“Mark, I need to ask you something.” Jayda looked down at little Mark, blushing. Her fingers were trembling on the baby’s blanket. She looked up at Mark and waited, her eyes shining with unshed tears.

Mark noticed the tears and instantly sensed that something was wrong.

“Yes? What do you need to know? I’m an open book,” his smile reassured her that he was there for her.

“Umm, I know we’ve only known each other for a couple of days…” Jayda looked down at her child, sleeping peacefully and making little sucking motions with his mouth. She was uncertain how to approach the subject in her mind. Would it offend him? Would it reaffirm how she was feeling? What will happen next? Will he reject her? Will he turn and walk away forever?

“Wow! Has it really been only two days?” Mark shook his head. “Somehow, it feels like we’ve known each other for years! What’s bothering you Jayda?” He sat down in the chair by her bedside and reaching overtook her nearest hand and squeezed it gently.

“Yes. It’s been a truly short time. And yet---somehow, it seems like we’ve grown closer than I’ve ever been to any man. Even when I was with Brad, I never felt like this---” Jayda shook her head, embarrassed.

Mark’s breath held “How do you feel, Jayda? What do you mean?” He stared into her eyes, soaking up the beauty of her tremulous smile.

“I just, I don’t know. I just feel like things are moving so fast. I don’t know what your feelings are---what your hopes are for us---do you understand what I’m saying?”

Mark’s face turned solemn. His feelings of confusion and disappointment were evident on his face.

“Are you---do you---are you wanting me to leave?” he stammered.

“Oh no! Certainly not! I just---I’m afraid. I’ve been burned---badly. I just feel like I need to protect my heart, and I don’t know what your intentions are or if I can trust you. I feel an attraction between us. I think you feel it too, don’t you? And I know you’ve been burned too. Do you think we’re moving too fast?”

Mark stared at her, deep in thought. His facial expressions changed several times as he thought about what she was asking. First, he appeared shocked, then angry, then gentleness came over him. He took her hand in both of his, gazed deeply into her eyes, and replied. “I know we both have been burned and both of us have trust issues. Perhaps we are moving forward too quickly and I’m thinking maybe we should put the brakes on a little. I don’t want to lose you forever. I care too much about you already for that. But maybe--This rocket is going to crash if we keep blasting forward like we are. If it’s all right with you, I’d like to start over and become great friends and just let it go whichever direction we want it to go.”

“I’d like that too,” Jayda grinned.

“Alrighty then.  Hi. My name is Mark, Mark Reeves. Nice to meet you. Do you live around here?” Mark shook Jayda’s hand and held it closely, gently in both of his.

Jayda giggled and answered, “Hello. I’m Jayda Michaels. I’m incredibly happy to meet you, too. And thank you for being my hero in cowboy boots.”

“My pleasure, Ma’am. Anytime.” Mark wanted to kiss those luscious lips but controlled that desire. Most friends don’t do that when they first meet.

“So,  uh---, can I still get a ride home from the hospital tomorrow?”

“Oh, most definitely. I’ve already bought a car seat, highchair, crib, and all the fixin’s for little Mark Lee. It’s all set up at your house. I was going to shop for baby food and all of that, but I didn’t know what brand or formula you’d be using for him! What---”

“Whoa, Cowboy!” Jayda laughed. “You’re doing it again! We were going to slow down, remember?” She giggled.  “You certainly didn’t need to spend all your hard-earned money “ She playfully slapped his hand. “What’s going on in that head of yours? Are you in love with my son?”

Mark’s face was stunned. “You know, you are right. I do love your child. I can’t believe that a little boy who can’t even see me well yet has captured my heart so fast. And his mom, well---”

“Mark!”

“I’m sorry, Jayda, but I’m not sorry. I’m nuts over both of you.”

“Well, you’re certainly nuts!”

Both laughed. His was a deep, masculine chortle. Hers was a light, tinkling, feminine sound, much like the sound of raindrops on porcelain.

“You know, I haven’t laughed this much in years,” Mark grinned. Then he stood and grabbed his hat. “I’d better get back to the farm. I’ve got animals to feed. Do you need anything from home?”

“No, I’m good. I’ve got my clothes to wear home and a couple of outfits for Mark Lee. The only thing we’ll need tomorrow might be more diapers and whatever formula Doc wants him to try. But don’t go buying anything. I have some questions for him before he releases me. And I’ll call you when I’m about ready to go. I don’t have a clear picture of what time that might be.”

“Ok. I’ll try to restrain myself.” Jayda laughed again at the pouty look on his face. He grinned back at her and headed for the door. “See you in the morning, Friend.”

Jayda waved and sighed as his footsteps were heard walking down the hall. Life certainly seemed more fun---now that she had a cowboy for a friend.

Hero in Cowboy Boots Chapter 5

Hero in  Cowboy Boots  Chapter 5 Pt. 2 V. 1 wc 883

 

June 7 10:00 a.m.

Mark stopped in the hospital gift shop and selected some fresh flowers and a tiny cowboy outfit for little Mark Lee before strolling up to Jayda’s room.  She was in the bathroom, so he stood outside her room and watched the normal hospital activity going on around him.

Nurses, doctors, visitors, and other staff members scurried around him, everyone on a mission. But they all smiled at him, and some even congratulated him on his new son.  He smiled but didn’t correct them, only dreamed it was true.

Jayda had impressed him with her courage and devotion to little Mark Lee, and her smile just made Mark’s day. Especially since his surprise in the naming the day before. What an amazing and wonderful day that was, despite the lack of sleep for all of them!

He smiled as he recalled the  middle-aged lady who waited on him in the gift shop. She congratulated him on the new baby, thinking Mark was the father. How sweet!

Hearing Jayda cooing softly to her baby, Mark knocked on her door and waited for her to signal him to enter. Her smile when he opened that door made his heart sing. What is that all about? They’d only known each other for a few hours. How is she bewitching him so fast?

He’d vowed to never marry or fall in love again after Lucinda’s abandonment. He’d swore he could be happy without a female around. Yet here he was: all hearts and flowers over a woman he’d known for less than a full day. It was ridiculous! But wild horses couldn’t drag him away from this room today.

“Hi,” she  greeted him. I hoped you’d make it back today. I know you are busy on the farm. Did you have any tornado damage?”

“No, thank God. I saw a few branches lying on the ground, and some lawn furniture tipped over. That was the extent of it.  I drove by your house too. I didn’t see anything disturbed there either.”

“Thank you. That’s great news. Did you have breakfast this morning? They serve delicious sausage and cheese casserole in the cafeteria. I ate some. I felt ravenous this morning.”

“Awesome, but I ate some toast and a couple of hard-boiled eggs at home before I left.  Maybe I’ll catch some lunch later on before I head home.” He moved closer to the bed and peered over the blankets at Mark Lee. “How’s the little guy doing today?”

“Oh, he’s just doing great! The doctor says he’s in the upper percentile on all his APGAR scores, whatever that means. The doctor seemed pleased and so did I too. I wish I had taken some prenatal classes when I first learned I was pregnant. I thought I could save some money and that was the most important thing to me at the time. After all, women have been having babies without doctors since Adam and Eve. But then a nurse told me I was very lucky, because many of those babies are born with birth defects or miscarried, or died right after birth! If I had known all of that, I’d have taken the classes and seen a doctor regularly like most moms do now.”

 Jayda gazed down at her son and smiled. Her face gentled and she looked up at Mark. “There are things more important than money.”

Mark’s gaze went from the baby to Jayda’s face and his breath caught mid-breath. She looked so beautiful. She had taken some time since yesterday to apply light makeup, and it enhanced her natural beauty.

Mark’s heart did some gymnastics in his chest, and he let out that breath. Lord help me, I’m falling in deep for this girl. In two days!

He cleared his throat and swallowed. “Yes, Jayda. There certainly are.”

“Oh! I almost forgot! I can go home tomorrow! Isn’t that cool? Uh, since my car is in the ditch…is there any way you could take me home? I’ll pay you back!” Jayda pleaded with Mark.

“Yes! I most certainly can take you home, and there’s something I meant to tell you yesterday, but I forgot.”

“What?” Jayda looked up at him. She couldn’t imagine what he was talking about.

“Yeah, well, when I got home yesterday, after chores were done, I took my tractor and pulled your car out of that ditch. There didn’t seem to be any damage done during the storm, so I was able to drive it to your place. I parked it behind  your barn so that if Brad comes by looking for you, he’ll think you are gone somewhere. So I’ll just drive you to your house. I can move the car wherever you wish after that.”

“Oh Mark, I’m so sorry I’m such a burden to you. I’m causing you so much extra work and I have absolutely no way to repay you.”

“Nonsense! It’s no extra work for me. Besides, it’s not every day I get a baby named after me, Jayda. That’s worth a million dollars to me!”

Mark placed a hand on hers on the baby blanket. The look he gave her made her heart skip, then her pulse quickened until it was racing.  Those gorgeous blue eyes!

Hero in Cowboy Boots Chapter 4

Pt. 2 V. 1 wc 883

 

June 7 10:00 a.m.

Mark stopped in the hospital gift shop and selected some fresh flowers and a tiny cowboy outfit for little Mark Lee before strolling up to Jayda’s room.  She was in the bathroom, so he stood outside her room and watched the normal hospital activity going on around him.

Nurses, doctors, visitors, and other staff members scurried around him, everyone on a mission. But they all smiled at him, and some even congratulated him on his new son.  He smiled but didn’t correct them, only dreamed it was true.

Jayda had impressed him with her courage and devotion to little Mark Lee, and her smile just made Mark’s day. Especially since his surprise in the naming the day before. What an amazing and wonderful day that was, despite the lack of sleep for all of them!

He smiled as he recalled the  middle-aged lady who waited on him in the gift shop. She congratulated him on the new baby, thinking Mark was the father. How sweet!

Hearing Jayda cooing softly to her baby, Mark knocked on her door and waited for her to signal him to enter. Her smile when he opened that door made his heart sing. What is that all about? They’d only known each other for a few hours. How is she bewitching him so fast?

He’d vowed to never marry or fall in love again after Lucinda’s abandonment. He’d swore he could be happy without a female around. Yet here he was: all hearts and flowers over a woman he’d known for less than a full day. It was ridiculous! But wild horses couldn’t drag him away from this room today.

“Hi,” she  greeted him. I hoped you’d make it back today. I know you are busy on the farm. Did you have any tornado damage?”

“No, thank God. I saw a few branches lying on the ground, and some lawn furniture tipped over. That was the extent of it.  I drove by your house too. I didn’t see anything disturbed there either.”

“Thank you. That’s great news. Did you have breakfast this morning? They serve delicious sausage and cheese casserole in the cafeteria. I ate some. I felt ravenous this morning.”

“Awesome, but I ate some toast and a couple of hard-boiled eggs at home before I left.  Maybe I’ll catch some lunch later on before I head home.” He moved closer to the bed and peered over the blankets at Mark Lee. “How’s the little guy doing today?”

“Oh, he’s just doing great! The doctor says he’s in the upper percentile on all his APGAR scores, whatever that means. The doctor seemed pleased and so did I too. I wish I had taken some prenatal classes when I first learned I was pregnant. I thought I could save some money and that was the most important thing to me at the time. After all, women have been having babies without doctors since Adam and Eve. But then a nurse told me I was very lucky, because many of those babies are born with birth defects or miscarried, or died right after birth! If I had known all of that, I’d have taken the classes and seen a doctor regularly like most moms do now.”

 Jayda gazed down at her son and smiled. Her face gentled and she looked up at Mark. “There are things more important than money.”

Mark’s gaze went from the baby to Jayda’s face and his breath caught mid-breath. She looked so beautiful. She had taken some time since yesterday to apply light makeup, and it enhanced her natural beauty.

Mark’s heart did some gymnastics in his chest, and he let out that breath. Lord help me, I’m falling in deep for this girl. In two days!

He cleared his throat and swallowed. “Yes, Jayda. There certainly are.”

“Oh! I almost forgot! I can go home tomorrow! Isn’t that cool? Uh, since my car is in the ditch…is there any way you could take me home? I’ll pay you back!” Jayda pleaded with Mark.

“Yes! I most certainly can take you home, and there’s something I meant to tell you yesterday, but I forgot.”

“What?” Jayda looked up at him. She couldn’t imagine what he was talking about.

“Yeah, well, when I got home yesterday, after chores were done, I took my tractor and pulled your car out of that ditch. There didn’t seem to be any damage done during the storm, so I was able to drive it to your place. I parked it behind  your barn so that if Brad comes by looking for you, he’ll think you are gone somewhere. So I’ll just drive you to your house. I can move the car wherever you wish after that.”

“Oh Mark, I’m so sorry I’m such a burden to you. I’m causing you so much extra work and I have absolutely no way to repay you.”

“Nonsense! It’s no extra work for me. Besides, it’s not every day I get a baby named after me, Jayda. That’s worth a million dollars to me!”

Mark placed a hand on hers on the baby blanket. The look he gave her made her heart skip, then her pulse quickened until it was racing.  Those gorgeous blue eyes!

Hero in Cowboy Boots Chapter 3

Hero in Cowboy Boots Ch. 3 V.1 wc1650

LITTLE MAN GETS A NAME

The door opened to a nurse in blue scrubs, wearing a name tag that read Stephanie. She had a wheelchair and it was turned so Jayda could sit easily. She told Jayda, she would be taken straight to delivery and asked for Jayda’s wallet with her insurance information so she could be processed in admissions.

“Do you have a regular doctor?” Stephanie bent down close to Jayda and smiled.

“No-o-o,” Jayda moaned, in another contraction. The nurse placed a hand on Jayda’s abdomen and  felt the rigidity. She timed Jayda’s contraction and then hustled her to the Delivery Room, Jayda’s bag and purse on her lap.

Another nurse appeared to show Mark where the Obstetrics waiting room was located. He looked a little panicked. The nurse explained that it might take a few hours, or it might take a few minutes. She expressed an opinion it might be a few minutes in this case. She smiled and asked if he wanted to remain until the baby was born, or if he needed to leave.

“Oh I’m in this for the long run. This is the most exciting thing I’ve ever done, since my military days.” Mark grinned, relieved that his responsibility for getting her to the hospital was over. He couldn’t wait to see what the baby would be like, and he wondered how this all fit into his life.

It occurred to him. He’d always wondered what it would be like to have kids. But was Jayda married? If so, where was her old man? He should be here with her, not Mark. Anger welled up in Mark’s heart. He’d like to get his hands on the jerk who left her to deliver and possibly die in that ditch.

He sat in a recliner in the small waiting room, put his feet up and closed his eyes. He tried to think about Jayda, not her old man. That jerk! He should be hung by his---.

Mark interrupted his thoughts with more Christian thoughts. He didn’t know her situation yet. He shouldn’t condemn him until he had the whole story.  He might not even know he had a baby coming. He might be dead. He might be military overseas. There could be any number of reasons why he wasn’t there for Jayda. Mark didn’t know what her story was, but he was intrigued and wanted to learn more.

Two hours later, Mark woke with a nurse gently putting a hand on his shoulder. He jumped at first, instincts reacting from his military duty in the war. But the angelic face smiling down on him certainly didn’t look like a threat.

“Mr. Reeves? My name is Angela. Are you here for Jayda Michaels? She would like you to come to her room, if you wish.”

“Jayda? Is she ok? Did she have the baby? Is the baby ok? Is it a boy or girl? Yes, I would like to see Jayda. Lead the way.”

The nurse led Mark down a hall toward the north end of the hospital and up three floors to where a sign above a double-door read Labor and Delivery. She buzzed in  on an intercom, and the doors opened. A nurse’s desk positioned right in front of the doors was occupied by several nurses and doctors, busy with their paperwork and computers. She led the way to the nurse’s station and spoke to a pretty nurse behind the desk with the name Gina on her name tag.

When Angela stopped in front of a door with the number 5 above the door sill, she stopped and asked Mark to wait just a second while she made sure Jayda was ready. Mark stood there, smiling and looking all around him.

The nurse stepped into the room, closing the door behind him. A few seconds later, she opened the door and motioned Mark in.

“She might be a little woozy yet from the anesthesia, but she’s fine. The baby is with her in the room.” Angela turned and left them alone.

“Hi,” Mark said softly. “How are you?” He held his hat in his hand, slowing turning it around in his fingers by the brim. Jayda was sitting up in bed, wearing a hospital gown. She had an IV in her left wrist, and the obligatory plastic bracelets on her wrists also. His eyes were on Jayda, on everything in the room, on the bundle she was holding in her arms. His gaze stopped there. “How’s the baby?”

“I’m fine. The baby is fine. He’s a little hungry right now, but he’s got ten toes, ten fingers, long skinny legs, and a set of huge lungs! He really screamed when he came out!” She laughed. “I don’t think he liked all the bright lights. Can’t say that I blame him. I don’t like bright lights either, unless it’s the sun on a warm day. Hey, thanks for waiting. I was hoping you would.”

“Hey, you didn’t think any self-respecting hero would just disappear, did you? That was a pretty exciting night. I wouldn’t miss this for the world.” Mark grinned at her and held it against his chest.

Jayda grinned. “It was exciting, wasn’t it? The nurse told me a tornado blew right through where I was in that ditch. Destroyed a barn just five miles north of my location. I don’t know if my farm was hurt or not. Did you have any damage?”

“I really don’t know. I haven’t been home yet.” Mark frowned. He hadn’t even thought about that. He took a deep breath and asked, “So how’s the little guy doing? Are you getting acquainted with him?”

“Oh Mark, he’s so adorable. Come here and see him.”

Mark tiptoed over to the bed and reached down to gently stroke her dark brown hair. So soft and fine. And skin like a porcelain doll. Exquisite! He daydreamed about the day he would have a son of his own.

He sighed and returned to the here and now, with no one to welcome him home after a hard day’s work. No one to cook for him and no one to enjoy life with. His expression turned to sadness just for a moment, but Jayda caught it.

“What’s wrong, Mark?”

“Huh? Oh I’m sorry. Nothing wrong. I was just woolgathering. So what are you naming him? Got any family you want to name him for? I hate to be nosy, but where’s the father? He should be here now, not me.”

 

Jayda frowned. “Oh no! I can’t let him see her. It’s not safe!”

“Not safe? What do you mean? Who is he? Is he in prison or married to someone else? What’s going on here? I’m sorry for being so nosy, but I’m concerned about the two of you. Who’s your support system? Do you have anyone else you can depend on?”

Mark moved closer to the bed and sat on a plastic and aluminum chair.

“Who helps you with your bills? You do have insurance right? Who’s going to help you with little guy while you heal? You’re not going to be a hundred percent right away, you know?”

Jayda’s eyes brimmed with tears. “I know. I’ve been stupid not to get things arranged for us. I guess I just hoped that Brad would realize that he loved me and would stick with me. But that was naïve, and really dumb. He could care less about me or little man. He said he’d rather see me dead than stand by me.”

Mark, shocked, said, “Brad? That’s the dad? He actually told you that? Why that---! How could any man do that to a woman he purported to care about?”

Jayda put her head down to her chest. “Yes, he told me that, and a whole lot more. I don’t know why I ever spent time with him. He’s definitely not the type of person I’d want to spend my life with.”

“I should say not!” Mark stood up, agitated. He paced the tiny room, rubbing his hand through his dark wavy hair. “If I had a woman like you, I’d treasure you, and your child. Even if it’s not my child. I’d love to have children. I never had any with Lucinda. I’m glad of that, because of our faulty relationship, but I can’t even fathom someone getting a girl pregnant and then just dumping her, and threatening her to boot! That just makes me furious!” Mark was almost shouting at this point.

Jayda put her fingers to her lips and quieted him.  “Mark, you need to be quiet here. I understand you are angry, and rightfully so, but please don’t wake the baby and everyone else in the hospital.”

Properly chastised, Mark sat back down. “They’ll probably be chasing me out of here pretty soon. I was curious. Have you given any thought to little man’s name?”

Jayda thought for a little bit. She looked down at little man, then at Mark. She stroked his fuzzy head and bit on her bottom lip in thought.

“Mark.”

“Yes?”

“No. I mean Mark. I want to name him Mark Lee, after you for saving me, and Lee after my dad. What do you think?” She glanced at him, hopeful he wouldn’t feel offended or angry.

It was quiet for a moment. Mark was staring at Jayda and little man, shocked and humbled by what she had just said.

“You don’t have to do that, Jayda. I would have helped anyone in that situation. I’m deeply honored, but you should name your baby after someone in your family. Your dad’s name, that’s good, but maybe it should be the first name---you know, Lee something or other, Jr. You know what I mean?”

“I know what you mean, Mark, but I’ve decided. Little man is now Mark Lee Michaels.”