Catherine and Johns Saga, Ch- 27, Proposal

Catherine is thinking to herself about the long weekend John and she had. It was very pleasant and very relaxing. She felt better about her mother and John getting to know each other. I know she would like him. She just wanted Catherine to be happy. Enough of this thinking I have to get John on the phone and talk to him.

They had been so busy with work, if she talks to him every other day, she’s doing well. He is equally busy. Catherine decides to call John. She picks up the phone and punches in his number. She leaves a message on his answering machine it sys to call her when he gets home. Catherine is washing her face and hands getting ready for bed when John calls her back. He asks her how she’s been and she tells him about the incoming new patients every day.

“If there weren’t any patients you wouldn’t have a job.” John said.

“You’re so practical. The reason I wanted to talk to you is because I have a day off coming next week. I was thinking about going to the city to go shopping ad have lunch.” Catherine says.

“I’m sorry but I have too much to do at work. We are short at work two people. How about your friend Mary Ann? She can probably get time off to go with you, since she works part time” John says.

“Thanks anyways ill try to get Mary Ann to go with me. I’ll call her tonight. I better go to bed. Morning comes early, Love you, and don’t let the bed bugs bite.” Catherine says.

She hangs up and calls Mary Ann. She asks if she would like to go out for a girls afternoon, Mary Ann thinks it would be fun. They say goodnight and go to bed.

The next week Catherine calls Mary Ann and asks her if she could come to the apartments, then they could drive to the bus terminal. Mary Ann asks what time, Catherine says they would be taking the 10:30 bus into town. She told he to dress casual Jeans or slacks. Whatever she preferred. The weather was going to be warm and sunny.

“Be at my apartment by 9:30 well talk on the bus. Bye sees you later.” Catherine said.

Catherine gets up and takes a shower, brushes her teeth, and lets her hair air dry. She leaves it down loose, puts her robe on and goes to the kitchen, and makes herself a pot of tea. A nice lemon one is her choice. She has some English muffins. She puts them in the toaster as she likes the crunch she gets from them. Lots of butter, is there anything better than that? She eats and drinks tea till she is full. That should last me until I have lunch. Then she cleans up the kitchen.

She goes upstairs and then she decided on a pair of coral slacks, and a white lose fitted blouse.

Catherine and Johns Saga, Ch - 26 Thanksgiving Dinner

Thanksgiving Dinner

Daylight was just beginning to come into the bedroom windows. Mother looks at the clock and sees it’s still early. Its 5:30, I am going to lay here and think about John, she thought to herself. I think I am going to like him; he seems to be sincere when he talks about Catherine. I want her to be happy.

Enough dilly dallying. Get up and get dressed she thought to herself. After putting on the coffee pot, she went back up stairs washed her face and combed her hair. My hair seems to grow so fast she thought to herself. Mother opens Catherine’s bed room door. She smiles and says good morning to her mother.

“I’ll get up and get dressed. I’ll be downstairs in a jiff.” Catherine says.

Catherine takes shower brushes her teeth and blow dries her hair. She puts it in a French knot and then goes down stairs. Catherine gets a cup from the cupboard, and pours herself a cup of coffee. Mother is already drinking hers. Mother takes the turkey out of the freezer, puts it in te sink and runs cold water on it.

“Where’s the sausage for the dressing?” Catherine says.

She puts diced apple, chopped celery, and diced onions in a bowl. She gets the crutons from a bowl and pours it in then adds chicken stalk for moisture. They stuff the bird and put it in a large roaster. They forgot to turn on the oven. When the oven is hot they put the roaster in the oven.

“Did you have a nice visit with John?” Catherine asks.

“I had a nice visit, he seemed to be sincere in our talk. He comes from a nice family, what religion is he?” Mother asks.

The conversation was interrupted.

“We’ll talk later.” Mother says.

John enters the kitchen and gives Catherine a hug. Catherine gives him a mug for coffee. It was nice and hot.

“We are going to have toast and cold cereal for breakfast, cold fruit also.” Mother says.

Catherine had everything on the table. She forgot the peanut butter, and jelly. John couldn’t eat without it. Father came downstairs after they had finished eating. He said it felt good to sleep in.

“I have three more days to catch up on my sleep.” He said.

All Father had to eat was toast and coffee. Mother put butter on the toast for him. He was saving his appetite for the big dinner.

“Mother what are we having?” Father asked.

“We’re having Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, squash, corn, Brussels’ sprouts, cranberries, and two kinds of olives. Then pumpkin pie for dessert.” Mother said.

“John lets you and I go for a ride in the car. We’ll drive to the lake and watch geese and ducklings.” Father said.

Catherine cleared the dishes and put them in the dish washer. Mother asked Catherine if John had a temper.

“He gets angry and that lasts a couple minutes, anger is not bad it’s when he turns to revenge is when it’s bad. That’s when your anger wants to hurt the other person, more than they hurt you. He’s pretty mellow.” Catherine said.

“How do you know he wants to marry you?” Mother asks.

“He took me to the bus stop when it was raining, we worked together at a block party, got the butcher to donate hamburgers, brats, and wieners. He opens the door for me, asks how I am, and he cares for me.” Catherine said.

“He believed me about leg surgery, men don’t listen otherwise. I’m sure he loves me.” Catherine ended.

“Catherine we need to talk to father. “ Mother said.

“I talked to father when I picked him up from the air port. I’ll have John talk to Father.”

“We better check on the turkey it smells very good. The timer is popped up on the bird. We’ll let it rest on the stove. Will you mash the potatoes Catherine?” Mother asked.

“I’ll put the buns in the oven to warm up.” Mother said.

Rita put her vegan burger to cook on the stove to cook. Catherine went to the den and she seed the guys are playing chess. She tells them dinner is almost ready.

“John will you please pour the wine? Father the bird needs to be carved.” Catherine asks.

“Can I help you; I’m not a stranger to the bird.” John says.

John carves the turkey and father tells him he is a good carver.

“On the farm we butcher turkey, pulled out the feathers and pulled the inside out. Then we would wash and throw it in the roaster to bake.” John said.

“Catherine will you double check the table to see that everything is on it? We’ll put Rita next to John.” Mother said.

She went up stairs to get dressed. They all sit down at the table, Mother comes down and then Father says a prayer before they begin eating.

“Oh heavenly father, thank you for the food we are about to eat. Thank you for the friendship of the people who are gathered here today. Amen.”

“Let’s toast to good health to everyone here.”

“Please pass the cranberries. You know they are very healthy for you.” Rita says.

“Being I’m a vegetarian I see we have a nice assortment of veggies for dinner.” Rita concluded.

John couldn’t believe how hungry he was. The potatoes tasted extra good. When a person lives alone potatoes are too much work to cook.

“Please pass the gravy and dressing.” John asked.

He was hoping there would be left over’s.

“What did you do last night that you didn’t get to bed till 4 o clock?” John asks Rita.

“We called some friends and talked for hours. We made brownies and sloppy Joes with a lot of chips, and dip. We did each other’s hair, and had a contest to who had the ugliest hair due.

“Rita do you want a brother in law?” Father asks.

“What brother in law?” Rita says.

“Think a little it’ll come to you, as to what we are talking about.” Father says.

Rita thought about it and came up with the right answer. She screams.

“YOU MEAN JOHN AND CATHERINE ARE GETTING MARRIED? DO I GET TO BE IN THE WEDDING?”

“Rita and Catherine let’s go for a walk after we get everything cleaned up.” John says.

“I’ll put the leftover food in the refrigerator.” Catherine said.

There wasn’t any room for the food when she got there. Nobody had eaten the dessert. Maybe they would have some before they went to bed. Mother and Rita had the dish washer running with goblets cups and plates.

“I will put the pans in the next load, why don’t you go for your walk?” Mother asked.

John, Rita, and Catherine put on light jackets and park their car by the walking trail. They would be walking about 2 miles there and back. The squirrels were busy putting away acorns for winter. The chipmunks were just as busy. Catherine liked the way the chipmunks put the acorns in their cheeks. They looked so cute.

“When we’re finished walking I would like to go to the movies. The Widow Brown is playing at the state theatre. It’s a comedy; does it sound okay with you two?” Rita asked.

“We would have to call mother and tell her what our plans are. See if she needs any help.” Catherine said.

Catherine uses John’s cell phone to call her mother. She asks if she needs any help, she says no but asks for her to pack the dry dishes when they come home.

“Its okay were going to a early movie, when we get home we will put the dishes and pans away. What’s father doing?” Catherine asks.

“He’s sawing wood he has quite a pile of wood on the living room floor. I’m going to go to my bed room and relax and read “The crickets Cried” We will see you when you get back.” Mother said.

John, Catherine, and Rita went to the movies. No one got popcorn or pop. They had eaten too much turkey. The name of the movie is ‘Fried Green Tomatoes’. The movie was about a family of the old south and how they lived. One of the characters opened up a restaurant and her specialty was fried green tomatoes and ribs. When John kissed Catherine, Rita giggled at them. When the movies were done they walked back to the car and drove home. When they arrived home Father was awake, and making a turkey sandwich.

“Anybody want one?” Father asked.

“I want a sandwich please.” John said.

“The movies were good.” Catherine said.

“I’m going to check on mother.” Catherine left the room.

Mother was still awake. She said the book was good and she didn’t want to put it down.

“I’m going to sleep on the couch.” Rita said.

“Mother we never finished our conversation about John’s religion. He’s Lutheran and I am Catholic. It’s something we are working out.” Catherine said.

“As long as you put your differences aside and are happy, I know things will work out.” Mother said.

Catherine kissed mother good night and said thanks for understanding.

John awoke from a sound sleep and didn’t know where he was. It took a few minutes for him to realize he was at Catherine’s parent’s home. He gets out of the bed and goes to the bathroom. He turns on the shower and looks in the mirror. He thinks to himself, I’ve looked better.

He took a shower and brushed his teeth and air. He got dressed and took all of his belongings, and packed his duffle bag and went down stairs to the kitchen and found Catherine ready to go home.

Good bye’s are said they get into car and head home.

Catherine and Johns Saga, Ch-25, Driving to Catherine Home

John and Catherine checked out their apartments to make sure everything was a okay. They would take turns driving. John’s leg was much better. We will stop at the Drive thru for two large cups of coffee.

They had each gotten to bed later than usual. John has a bimorph with his coffee. Catherine gets an oatmeal cookie. They decided to travel along the ocean road.

“Pacific bay looks so calm and blue.” John said.

“There’s the bank of America building, it’s so tall. I think I’ll go to them for a loan for my business.” John continued.

“The Warf is one of my favorite places; there are so many shops where you find things that are different items that you don’t see in other places. Also there is the Wax museum.” Catherine said.

As they drove they both were in their own little world. The coffee hadn’t kicked in yet. Catherine was in deep thought about John and her mother. She would have to be firm with her mother. They saw the military base on Angle Island. At Richard mound was the navy base and port of all the ships. As we drove along we stated to see hills. On the hills were wind mills. Davis California University was off to the right side of the road.

When they came to the arm land there were Acers of orange, Grapefruit, and lemon trees. Seasonal migrant workers did the picking of the fruits.

Catherine’s coffee finally kicked in. she felt like her happy self. She smiled at John.

“Good morning, I love you.” She said to John.

“I wonder if you were ever going to talk to me.” John said.

“I need a minimum of eight hours of sleep every night. Otherwise I’m brain dead.” Catherine said.

“I love you too. I don’t need that much sleep. Six hours of sleep is enough for me. I sometimes get up from bed and do paper work and have a cup of camimeal tea. It relaxes me.” John said.

“I need to stop and walk around for a while. I’m beginning to stiffen up. Let’s see if we can find a city park.” John said.

They were lucky when they drove into town they saw a sign that said local park stop and enjoy. Finding the park was simple. It was landscaped with blocks of beautiful flowers John and Catherine headed for the rest room. Catherine came out first and was amazed by the lovely park. John came out and walked over to Catherine and gave her a warm hug.

“Do you think we can find someplace where we can buy a sandwich or soup so we can eat at the park?” Catherine asked.

They got in the car and drove own main street looking for a deli. They passed one so they parked and went into the deli and they each got a cup of soup and a corn beef sandwichfor John, Catherine got a chicken salad sandwich. They drove back to the park and found a bench and ate the tasty lunch.

“I feel so much better.” John said.

“We better get on the road again.” Catherine said. She was to do the driving. She knew her way now. She was in her home area now. On the outskirts of town they were getting close to her parents’ home. It was a red brick house with a white picket fence. They still had her swing set in the back yard. They got out the car and rang the doorbell. Rita, Catherine’s younger sister came to the door.

“Hi, about time you got here!” She said.

“Come in mother should be here soon. She’s at the hospital doing volunteer work. She thinks if she’s not there then the hospital will close down. Father will be coming on a plane from phoenix. He has to be picked up.” Rita said.

“I will be glad to do it. That will give John time to get to know mother.” Catherine said.

Looking out of the kitchen window Catherine saw mother arrive.

“Mother is here now.” She said.

“It’s so nice to see you again, give me a big hug!” Mother said as she came in the house.

“What time is father’s plane coming in?” Catherine asked.

“It comes at 2:45, would you go and pick him up?” Mother said

“It’ll be nice to surprise him, in that way you can get to visit with John, I want you to see the good points in him, and I better get going to the airport.” Catherine said.

Catherine then gave John a kiss and left him with her mother. John asks mother if she needs help in the kitchen.

“I’m not a stranger in that department. It will be a good way for us to get to know each other.” John said.

“I thought we would have pork chow Mein for supper. I didn’t want any heavy meal. I have a huge turkey and all the trimmings. You can cut the celery and onions. I’ll do the browning of the pork. Father likes my chow Mein. It’s something simple, let’s make each of us a small salad. John tell me about your child hood.” Mother said.

“I had a great childhood. I have two loving parents. My mother and father own an avocado orchard. We were brought up to love and respect one another. My parents worked together and still had time for us. I’m a hard worker but still find time for play. I’m a social worker; I hope to open my own business. Catherine and I have known each other for quite some time. I know that I love her very much. I think that she is a warm kind person. I’d say we are well matched for each other. We’d make very good parents.” John said.

Just then Catherine and Father came into the room.

“Were you surprised?” Mother asked.

“I was surprised and it was a good surprise. What’s for supper?” Father asked.

“Chow mien with rice and noodles. Say hello to John.” Mother said.

“Come on John lets go to the den and see if we can find a game on TV.” Father said.

Father and John go to the den and find a football game to watch. Father asks John about his future plans.

“I’d like your permission to marry your daughter.” John said.

“How can you support her and make her happy? I would be happy for you tow to get married, to each other. We have to get mothers okay.” Father asked.

“If you have a problem with anything let me know, I’ll be there for you. Now I missed that touchdown, I think we need to get some beverages to drink, how does that sound?” Father concluded.

“it sounds good to me, I’ll have a light beer if you have it.” John said.

After the ball game Catherine came in and said supper was ready. They went to the kitchen and sat down at the table. The food looked better than the Chinese buffet. Rice was nice and sticky, and the chow Mein was very good.

“How is work? Anything unusual?” Father asked.

“We seem to have younger people coming in for therapy. The younger generation is into sports more than the older people. Sounds like there’s your answer.” Catherine said.

“Mother you made an excellent meal again. I think I’ll keep you around a while.” Father said.

He gave his wife a big hug.

“I’ll do the clean up in the kitchen, then I’m going to a friend’s place over night. John can have my room, I don’t mind.” Rita says.

“I’ll have my old room to sleep in.” Catherine said

“I put clean sheets on my bed; I can always find a girl friend’s place to stay. We’ve done that before, they also have slept over here.” Rita said.

Mother, father, Catherine, and John all thanked Rita, for doing the cleanup of the kitchen.

“Mother you made a good meal.” Rita said.

“Mother now I know where Catherine gets her cooking skills from, you did a good job teaching her.” John said

They go to the den and watch a little TV. Catherine and John wanted to turn in early. It was a full day and tomorrow would be also. Catherine asks her mother to wake her up so she can help in the kitchen

“Good night and thanks again”

Catherine and Johns Saga, Ch - 24 ______ Preparation for Thanksgiving

Few days after Labor Day, Catherine and John needed to get outside and get some exercise. Catherine says, “Let’s walk to Taco Bell.” It’s a beautiful evening. The temperature is in the lower 70s and a nice breeze is blowing. They walked hand in hand down the street. They took the long way to the eating place. It felt good walking. They should do this every day. John’s leg is almost as good as new.

They arrive at Taco Bell and order a chicken burrito for Catherine. John has a Taco salad, large size. They ate out on the deck. Iced tea was their beverage. When finished, they were still hungry. John says, “Let’s walk to Twisted Tail for some frozen yogurt. I hope they have the black cherry one.” Catherine says, “I’ll have the butter pecan.”

John and Catherine were sitting on the patio relaxing. It was starting to get dark out. You could begin to see the stars.

John says, “Do you ever think about other life out there? There must be other living things out there. It is so huge. Just look at the stars. Millions of them! Maybe when we die we go to another planet?”

John was rubbing his leg. Catherine asked him why he was doing that.

He said it was tight. “I have to rub it to loosen it up. I must be doing something wrong.” Catherine says, “You need to relax more. Sitting in a warm tub of water would be good for you. Otherwise, you will end up in physical therapy again.”

John says, “Am I doing too much?”

Catherine says, “When does it tighten up?”

John says, “About 2 or 3 o’clock.”

Catherine says, “Does it help to sit down and put the leg up? Try the hot bath. If possible, sit as much as possible. Was it bothering you when you walked?”

John says, “It started at the farm.”

Catherine says, “Why didn’t you say something?”

John says, “I thought it would go away. Am I in big trouble? I don’t want to go back to the limp.”

Catherine says, “We’ll just have to see how hot water works. No keeping secrets from me.”

End of the month, they decide to go to a bed and breakfast place. They wanted to see the changing of the leaves now that fall was here.

John was feeling better about the leg. It seemed strange to share the room. Catherine is reluctant to go. She preferred having separate bed rooms. This place was for married people. She had a big tabby cat in her room. He slept at the foot of the bed.

John asked Catherine what she felt about his brother. He didn’t like the way he was looking at her.

Catherine says, “He’s just young and probably looks at all girls that way. I’m more concerned about the attitude of my mother towards you. Father likes you a lot. Mother is more reserved and protective. She wants me to have a peaceful life. I feel I love you. I don’t want to lose you. She wants my life to be better than hers.”

John says, “You aren’t going to lose me. I feel the same about you.”

*Several weeks later*

After their trip they decided to go shopping for clothes to wear at Catherine’s family home. They both liked to clothes shop. They decided to split up and shop separately.

 Catherine says, “I always take a long time to decide about something. Meet me back here maybe an hour or so.”

John says, “It shouldn’t take you long. You look good in anything. See ya.” He goes to the men’s department and looks at leather jackets. He finds one that fits like it was made for him. Now I need a shirt and pants. He decides on a white linen shirt and new narrow legged jeans. Now all he needs is a Harley. Wonder what Catherine would think about that.

Catherine couldn’t decide if she wants the one for fall or should she get a summer dress. They were on sale for half off. The weather has been quite warm, yet she could wear a sweater if it gets cool. John comes to see what she purchased. He liked both dresses. He says, “Why not get both if you can afford it.”

“I want to purchase some house plants as all mine on the balcony are dried up. I thought I’d get some African violets. There is a nice flower shop in the mall. I’d like to go there.” She decided on the summer and fall dress. She could eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches all week.

Catherine got her plants and they decided to get fish and chips at a small fish store. Everything, especially the cole slaw, was very good.

They put their purchase in the car, walked around the mall and window shopped. They went to the sweet shop and got some candy. They purchased some almond bark for John and some pieces of mint chocolate for Catherine.

John says maybe they better go home. They walked to the car, put the candy in the trunk. They didn’t want to eat it all at one time. John wanted to drive. Catherine says, “Okay. Home is not that far from the mall.” So they drove home. The traffic was light. John asked Catherine what she would think if he got a motorcycle. She just looked at him. it was a look that told him the answer would be a big NO.

“Why not?” says John.

Catherine says, “It’s too dangerous. They are made to use in open spaces, not in a city. You can’t be watching every driver. End of discussion!”

They arrived at the home parking lot. John says, “That wasn’t too bad for me.” After parking, John says, “I just wanted to see what you would say. No more driving for a while.”

They get out of the car and lock it. The packages got taken from the trunk. They walk to the apartment. John says, “I have to make some phone calls. Then I’m going to soak my leg. Is it okay if I don’t see you until tomorrow?”

Catherine says, “That’s fine. I have some chores to do also.”

They give each other a kiss. It was nice. John says, “Bye. See you in the morning. How about breakfast at my place?”

John opens the apartment door and put the packages on the table. He goes to other room and checks the answering machine. There is a message from brother to call him. John dials the number for the farm and Brother answers.

John says, “What’s up, Brother?”

Brother says, “Papa is not feeling well. He went to the doctor and the doctor says he has high blood pressure and gout in his ankle. He eats too much potatoes and meat. He has to stop using salt and red meat. He needs more vegetables and fruits. You know what a bear he can be when it comes to eating. We have to find someone to help with the work around here. Don’t know how long before he can work again. He can supervise, but he has to give the ankle a rest. It’s mostly pain that bothers him.”

John says, “Should I come out there?”

Brother says, “No, we will be fine. Our big problem will be to get Papa to change his eating habits.”

John says, “Where are Mama and Papa?”

Brother says, “They are getting his prescription filled at the drug store. The pills are for pain and high blood pressure. Not to change the subject, but how is my girlfriend Catherine?”

John says, “You just keep on wishing. It’ll never happen for you. She only loves me.”

“Call me if anything changes. I’ll call tomorrow night and see how things are. I’ve got some calls to make. They are work-related. Remember, I’ll call tomorrow night and talk to both Mama and Papa. Good bye Brother. Take Care.”

John hangs up and sits and thinks about the situation. Hope things aren’t too serious. He needed to soak his leg. He went to put water in the tub, undressed and got in the tub. It felt good when he was done.

John put on shorts and T-shirt. He made his phone calls. Everyone he called was home. That makes everything simple. He would see the people Monday morning.

He felt like relaxing by watching a movie about the Civil War. The movie he selected was called “Trouble between the North and the South”. He would talk to Catherine about Mama and Papa and their problem. I’ll know more after I’ve talked to them. Soon he was dozing.

Meanwhile, Catherine was thinking about her mother. She shouldn’t be worried. Her mother will get used to him. He was a good man. I think I’m going to knit my father a nice warm scarf for him when he’s outside this winter. He likes to be out in all kinds of weather. It will keep my mind relaxed.

She turns on the TV and finds a comedy program called “Last Man Standing”. She had to find her knitting needle that fell to the floor.

By G & G

Catherine and Johns Saga, Ch. 23 Labor Day Weekend

Mama opened her eyes and saw sunshine just peaking in the bedroom windows. It’s that time again. I’m going to lay here for a few minutes. It’s good to have Catherine and John here at the farm. I sure like that girl.

Mama washes her face and hands. She will shower later on. Mama brushes her teeth and combs her hair. My hair is getting gray and grayer. She puts on her dress and apron and goes down stairs to the kitchen.

I’ll make coffee first. Then she gets out eggs and bread. I think I’ll make French toast and strawberries.

Papa comes downstairs and gets a cup of coffee. He says he slept very well, only woke up once.

John woke up when he hears voices in the kitchen. May as well get up and get to work. He takes a shower and gets dressed. He goes to the kitchen and has a cup of coffee.

Mama says, “Don’t wake Catherine.”

She must be tired or she would be here by now. Let her sleep.

Jack comes into the kitchen yawning.

John says, “As young as you are, you shouldn’t be tired and yawning.”

Jack says, “You haven’t been here for the last couple of weeks. It’s been nonstop work. Another week and then the worst will be over. I’m hungry as a bear.” He gives Mama a hug.

Mama says, “Don’t try to butter me up. You will have to wait until we all sit down at the table. You can put plates, silverware, glasses, milk and juice on the table.”

Papa is already sitting down at the table. He feels good today. He wants to get to work and get crop into market.

Mama says, “Breakfast is ready.”

They sit down and say grace. John loves French toast, especially with strawberries.

Mama saved a couple of pieces of French toast for Catherine. “Papa, will you be working on Sunday?” she asked.

Papa says, “I think we can work till noon. Take off Monday also. We have to go to the BBQ on Sunday. Well boys, let’s get going. The sooner we go the sooner we get done. Good breakfast, Mama.”

The boys thanked Mama for breakfast.

John says, “You better wake up Sleeping Beauty. She may sleep all day.”

Mama says, “I’ll wake her after I clear the table.” She takes things out of the refrigerator and puts the dishes in the dishwasher. She wipes down the counters and table. Mama thinks to herself she better rap on Catherine’s door.

Catherine says she’s sorry about sleeping so long. “I feel well rested.”

Mama says, “You must have been tired.”

Catherine says, “I feel foolish. I wanted to help you with things around here.”

Mama says, “You will have plenty of time for that. I thought we could go over to the neighbor’s house. They are having a sale. They had to clean out their father’s home.”

Catherine says, “I love going to sales.”

Mama says, “There will be a lot of furniture. I’m looking for a small end table, preferably a light oak one.”

Catherine says, “I’ll be ready in just a minute. She goes to the bathroom and gets dressed. “I’ll take a shower tonight. I’ll meet you downstairs.”

Mama says, “I’ll have a cup of coffee and some French toast for you. Don’t be late or it will be cold. We will take pickles.” Catherine ate her toast and drank coffee. When they arrived at the neighbors’, there was a large crowd there. Mama looked at the small furniture. There was a table that she liked. She got out her tape measure and measured it. I think I’ll hang on to it and look some more. She saw a fruit bowl that would make a nice gift.

Catherine found a small water color picture that would look nice in the entry way.

Mama decided to get the table and a bowl. Catherine got the picture. They took their purchases to the truck. “We got some nice treasures, didn’t we? We better get going as we have to make lunch for the family.

Mama had taken some chili out of the freezer last night and had put it in the refrigerator. She put chili in the kettle and put the burner on low. It will heat up nicely. We have some cookies and a blueberry cobbler. That should fill them up.

The men came and ate lunch. John was happy. Chili was one of his favorite.

Papa says, “We will finish up today. We may be late coming in for supper. Don’t worry about us.”

Catherine and Mama started to do the dishes and clean up the kitchen. We will have pizza for supper. That way it doesn’t matter when they come in. It will only take a couple of minutes to heat it up. I like making my own pizza crusts. We’ve got the vegetables from the garden. I’ll take some sausage from the freezer. It will be fine.

When they finished their chores they went out to the lawn chairs that were in the yard. They took their iced tea with them and had cookies with it.

Catherine says “Isn’t there something we should be doing?”

Mama says, “We have plenty of time to do things. I want to show you something I made last winter. When we go in the house, I’ll show it to you.”

Catherine says, “I don’t mean to be pushy, but I would like to make you some cookies. I find baking very restful.”

Mama says, “If you really want to, it would be nice if you would. I’m not too fond of it myself. I’d rather make pies. It’s so much different . What do you do for recreation in the winter?”

Catherine says, “I like to do cross country skiing. It’s good exercise. I’ve been talking to John about going along with me. I’ve been talking to John about going along with me. It will all depend on how his leg is. He’s having trouble tiring out early in the day. I hope it’s nothing permanent.”

Mama says, “Let’s go into the house. If you like, you can make cookies. First, I want to show you my prize quilt. I made it with help from the neighbors. We get together and have a quilting bee. It’s a good way to know everybody.”

Catherine says, “What a beautiful quilt!”

Mama says, “Too bad you don’t live closer. We could make one for you.”

They went to the kitchen and Catherine stirred up some cookie dough. “This is a recipe from my grandmother. She came to America when she was a small girl. My mother made these cookies whenever she had new neighbors or when there was a function of some kind,” Catherine says, “I shouldn’t need too much space to work in.”

Mama says, “Don’t worry, I’ll work around you. I think I’m going to start making pizza dough. John’s brother has a date tonight. He may come in early from the orchard.”

Catherine says, “I finished baking cookies. What would you like me to do?”

Mama says, “We need to get vegetables ready for the pizza. If we need more, I’ll go out to the garden and pick more. I’ll let the dough rest and then I’ll fry sausage. Did you want to eat now or wait for the men?”

Catherine says, “I’ll wait for John and Papa to come in the kitchen. I see John’s brother coming up the walk. It must be an important date because he is walking fast.

Mama says, “Hi Son. Do you want to eat before you go on your date?”

Brother says, “I’ll have a couple of slices. We are going to eat later in the evening.”

Here comes Papa and John. They have to wash, comb their hair and have to take their overalls off. They were slow in walking up to the house.

The men came in the kitchen door and they said they had worked too long. They were exhausted and that they’ll rest tomorrow.

The four of them sat down at the table. They were hungry. John says, “Catherine must have baked cookies.” They are very good. Papa ate a cookie and said, “You better keep her for she can bake.” Papa was silent while they were eating. John talked about his work. They were getting new clients every day.

Brother came to say good night. He would see them in the morning. Papa thought about working tomorrow but he decided not to work. They needed a rest.

It was getting near bedtime when they finished cleaning up the kitchen. Maybe we can watch a movie. They found a movie called “Elorado”. It was a John Wayne one. John fell asleep and Catherine woke him up and suggested he go to bed. Papa says, “I’m going also.” They said their good nights. That left Mama and Catherine. They weren’t so tired so they watched the movie until the end. They told each other good night. “See you in the morning.”

Catherine says, “Wake me if I don’t awaken.”

They had a late breakfast. Everyone slept late.

Mama made scrambled eggs and toast and American friends. She had a bowl of cut fruit on the table. Being they are in season, we may as well enjoy. They ate in silence. After breakfast, the men went to the porch and lounged in the porch swing.

John asked Papa if he still though about buying more land.

Papa says, “Now that I’m laid up, I wonder if it’s such a good idea. There is a nice piece of land just down the road from here. I’ll have to think on that.” Brother wants him to buy it.

Mama and Catherine come out to the porch. “I think we’ll skip lunch and have mashed potatoes, green beans, corn on the cob, and beef roast. How does that sound?” All of them said it sounded good.

John says to Catherine, “How about we go for a walk after a while. Temperature-wise it’s good walking weather. Did you bring your walking shoes?”

Catherine says, “I did. Did you bring yours?”

John says, “I keep a change of clothes here in my room. Clothes for every occasion!”

John and Catherine walk hand-in-hand along the path of the avocado trees and sit down under a tree.

John says, “I know you haven’t said anything about the other night, but I would like to apologize for asking you to stay the night. I don’t know what I was thinking. I love you and don’t want to lose you.”

Catherine says, “I was very upset when I left your apartment. The more I thought about it, I decided to forgive. I love you too. Just don’t do it again! Excuse me but I have to find a bush.”

John says, “That sounds like a good idea. You can have that one over there.”

Catherine says, “Maybe we should start walking back. We’ve been gone for a long time. I want to help your Mama with supper and we need to pick vegetables in the garden.”

John says, “You and I can do that.”

As John and Catherine walked back to the house, John says, “Why so quiet?”

Catherine says, “I’m thinking about us. Wondering what our future is going to be.”

John says, “It will be a good future. Trust me.”

“Come, let’s go to the garden and pick the vegetables. Mama always has a dish pan by the garden path.” When they were almost finished, John threw a spoiled tomato at Catherine. She was so surprised she didn’t know what to do. She picked the hard green ones to throw at John. They kept it up until Catherine surrendered.

They cleaned themselves up as good as possible. John says, “You have pretty good aim and so hard they hurt.” Catherine says, “I was star pitcher in college.”

Mama needed someone to set the table. John’s brother said he could do that. He was hungry, which was not a surprise. They sat down and said grace and ate. Everything was so tasteful. Mama says, “Thank you.”

Brother says, “Catherine, why do you have tomato seeds in your hair? Did you have a tomato fight? I hope you used the hard green ones.”

John says, “She’s better at it than I am, so don’t get her mad at you. Let’s play dominos this evening. I need to win at something today.” John was right, he won every game. They went to bed early.

Today was the BBQ at the neighbor house. They all wanted a light breakfast, yogurt, and fruit would be fine.

Catherine and Mama were on the porch swing. It was quite comfortable.

Catherine asks Mama if she did crocheting or knitting. She says, “I do a little knitting like scarves and mittens and caps. The church sends them to wherever they can be used. Quilting is my passion. Maybe the next time we get together I will have another quilt on the frame. Then you will see if you like it.”

Mama says, “Catherine, will you go find Papa and John. Maybe they are gathering eggs. Tell them we have to be at the BBQ at two o’clock. I’ll go in and put my fruit in the bowl to take along. I’m wearing what I have on. It’s going to be very casual.”

As they arrive at the neighbor’s, John says, “Oh no! There is Tess. She had the hots for me in the 10^th grade. She was like a shadow glued to me. I took her to a movie and all she wanted to do was hold hands. Didn’t talk, just hold hands.”

Brother came with a girlfriend. John says, “Well, well. What’s up?”

Brother says, “Just want you to know I can find a pretty girl too.”

John introduced Catherine to everybody. They seemed like nice people. When you got to know them, you will find out how nice they are.

They all had a nice time. Food was excellent and the company was special. By eight o’clock, everyone headed for home. They would be going home early in the morning. They want to go before the mad rush for the city.

The next morning, Catherine woke up early. She took shower and brushed teeth and fixed hair in a ponytail. She got dressed and went down to the kitchen. Mama had the coffee made already. She got a cup and poured herself a cup. She wished she didn’t have to go home already. She was having a wonderful time. John’s parents were such nice people.

John came out to the kitchen. He got a cup of coffee. Boy, it sure tastes good. Just what I needed!

Mama says, “Did you all sleep well last night? Papa rolled around all night. His ankle and foot were quite painful. He must have overdone it.”

Catherine says, “John, will you go to the car and get the cooler? We’ll put ice and some things to eat on the way home.”

Papa comes into the kitchen and gets coffee. He sits down on a chair and says he didn’t sleep very well. “I’ll have to try and sleep after lunch. It is better now, doesn’t hurt so much.

John and Catherine said they will skip breakfast as both said they ate too much yesterday. After giving everyone hugs and kisses, they got in the car and drove away.