Dreams

By JeanDell Barron

Jo is shocked when her husband, Bart, tells her that they are moving to Montana Mountains in two weeks. She knows by the look in his eye the decision is final. After Bart's gentle urging and explanation, Jo finds herself agreeing to her husband's idea. She loves him enough to trust him. While preparing, Jo mourns the loss of her home, her family, and friends. While Bart asks his brother-in-law, Hoss' s help fixing their trucks. Upon learning of Bart's plan, Hoss decides to join them. Mustering her courage Jo tell her mother, Mildred, she receives another shock when Mildred also decides to come to be with them and her grandchildren. The entire family will face a completely new life as they build a Log Cabin home in the wilderness. Also the many wild animals they adopt into their family. There are defeats, disappointments, great danger, and tears as they struggle with the new and unfamiliar. Uproarious fun often happens with them and the grandchildren. They are willing to try and risk it all for their Dream Home. "DREAMS" is enjoyable reading showing how a family's loving and pray for God, bring the family lovingly closer to each other.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Sep 2, 2011
• ISBN: 9781462041909

JeanDell Barron

JeanDell 'Cash' Barron Born Christmas Day, raised in a Log Cabin deep woods, Forney, Texas till the levy broke washing it away. Later moving to Tyler, Texas I lovingly Married Ray Barron. Telling stories around campfires of growing up in rural back woods, deciding to write a book of adventures. [e-mail].

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

We were like your average family, caught up in the routine of day to day living, always trying to get ahead. We had really worked hard for what we had, then learned we had to fight just as hard to keep it. Having locks on your doors and windows didn’t stop the criminals from taking what they want. Crime is high and our schools are over run with drugs, gangs, and violence.

I was surprised when our camouflage Ford pickup pulled up the drive a little past noon. What was Bart, (my husband), doing home so early from work? I went to the back door and watched as he walked from his pickup to our back porch. He was still as handsome as the day we married. Six feet two inches tall, weighing two twenty of pure muscle, with strong broad shoulders, and lean hips, brushing a stray black curl off his forehead as he stepped upon the back porch.

Those beautiful dark brown eyes and that sexy grin, with his deep husky voice said, "Honey

I’ve QUIT! I told them, They could have my job. Today was the last time they jump me for someone else’s dumb mistakes. Stunned, I just stood there, my mouth open. Honey, giving me a bear hug he continued, We’re moving to Montana! You remember that information package I received about the free government land? We’re going to homestead a section and buy another thousand acres of land.

Bart, dear, I finally sighed, I didn’t think you were serious, when you sent for that information. We need to discuss this. What about our home here, school for the kids, our families and our friends?

He asked, Honey, don’t you want your dream of a mountain home on our own land?

Well, yes, I do. It sounds great but it’s… so… so… Bart, I’m afraid. There’s…

Honey, he cut in, we can start fresh in Montana. I know we can do this. Fred has agreed to trade his Suburban for your Buick LeSabre. We’ll need another four-wheel drive vehicle up there, and his Suburban is in real good condition.

Pulling away, I looked up at those eyes that could still thrill me, saying. Dear, your mind is made up, isn’t it?

He reached out taking me in his arms again saying, Now Jo, you know I love you and only want the best for all of us! Let’s go in, I could sure use a big glass of iced tea. Call Kathy and Hoss, ask them to come over tonight.

I fixed Bart’s iced tea, then called Kathy, my sister-in-law. Kathy was surprised when I told her. She said they would come over when Hoss got home from work. After the phone call and his tea, Bart went to the auto store. He was working on his pickup when Hoss and Kathy arrived.

My brother, Hoss, is a big strong man with reddish brown hair, six feet four inches tall and weighing about two eighty. When he says move, they move. Kathy looks like a model with light golden blonde hair and blue eyes. Hoss went out back to help Bart work on the pickup.

Coming into the kitchen Kathy asked, Are you all right? Yes, I replied, but I’m still a little dazed. Kathy said, Jo, Mom called I didn’t tell her anything I thought it best if you tell her.

Oh, Kathy, I’ve put it off. I haven’t even told the kids yet and that’s going to be hard! Fixing Kathy a glass of iced tea, we sat at the kitchen table, talking. When Bart and Hoss joined us, I poured them some tea and we all sat at the table. For a moment it was quiet. Kathy noticed the big grin on their faces about the same time as I did. I knew something was up and boy, was it ever.

Hoss, still grinning said, Kathy, we’re going too! For a second you could have heard a pin drop, it didn’t take Kathy long to catch her breath.

Jumping to her feet she yelled, ARE YOU NUTS? Hoss calmly stated, No, I’m serious. Now is the time to go. Kathy was really upset. She yelled. You can go, but I’ll be darned if I will! The kids and I are staying here. We’ll move in with Mom. I’m not living in a tent deep in the mountains with mosquitoes… and… and… ah… all those four and eight legged creepy, crawling things out there. Not to mention all kinds of wild animals! Camping is one thing but actually living there? Besides, what about my new washing machine? We just bought it! You said it was too hard on me with the three kids to go to the Laundromat. Now you’re telling me I can wash clothes in a creek? NNNOWAY! I’m not an Indian squaw. Think again!!! What if one of the kids gets sick, really sick? What about doctors? What if…

Hoss interrupted, Kathy, wait a minute. Please calm down and stop screaming. Bart and I have covered those bridges. Babe, this is our chance of a lifetime. Please look at what we will have. Clean air, fresh mountain water and no crime or drugs. I want this for you and our kids.

Bart spoke up, Kathy, most of all, we’ll have our own land. We can have a hundred-acre homestead just for building a home and living on it. The ticking of the clock on the wall, the sounds drifting in from the living room TV filled the room.

Taking a deep breath, Bart continued, We need to leave as soon as possible. There will be lots to do before winter sets in. We must be ready. If we wait too long, all the good land will be gone and we want our land together so we can help each other. He didn’t want to push her too much, so he just added, Look, ya’ll go home. Take time to cool down and call us in the morning.

After they left, we sat at the table, not talking. Each of us lost in our own private thoughts. The emotions of the evening had been exhausting. It was getting late, so we decided not to face the kids tonight.

It’s time for bed. I called out, Tammy get the phone out of your ear. John turn off the TV. Come on, move it!

Leaning against the kitchen door, John asked, What was Aunt Kathy yelling about? Go on to bed now, we’ll talk about it in the morning. Looking at him, I sighed.

At eleven, the concern on his face, made him look more like me then ever. With his reddish brown hair, green eyes, and my quick Irish temper, I was grateful he had inherited his father’s steadiness. There was no doubt this son of ours was special. About two hours later, the phone rang. It was Hoss.

When Bart got off the phone, he said, They’re going. Kathy has agreed to try it for one year. Hoss and I have agreed we need to leave in two weeks.

I gasped, TWO WEEKS? There’s too much to do in such a short time. We need more time!

Honey, we have to leave then. Montana winters are hard and we have the cabins to build before the first snow comes. Look, it’s getting late and we have a big day tomorrow. We’ll talk more in the morning. When Bart took me in his arms and kiss me sweetly. After we lay cuddled in each other’s arms. Tomorrow, I though I would take it one thing at a time drifting off to sleep.

Morning came too soon, we got the kids up. Bart told them at breakfast about us move to Montana. John was wild about going. Tammy ran to her room crying. I started after her, but Bart stopped me saying, Let her be for a while. Give her some time alone. I quickly replied, Bart, she’ll be late for school.

With that deep husky voice he said, So she’s late. It doesn’t matter, we need to go ahead and check them out anyway so they can help. John gobbled his food and was ready to go. He could hardly wait to get to school and tell all his friends. I went in to talk to Tammy, she was playing the music box Bart had gotten her last Christmas. The door was open but I knocked anyway.

May I come in? She just nodded, there were too many tears running down her face to trust her voice to speak yet. I sat on the bed beside her thinking of this beautiful daughter of mine. She had definitely picked up her father’s good looks and dark olive skin. Her long brunette waves that normally would hang down her back almost to her waist, lay in a jumble on the pillow she was hugging. Her cute button nose was lost in the tissue I handed her. After one firm blow she started to speak, but her beautiful brown eyes filled with tears again. At fifteen, I remembered, it was hard enough to ride the emotional roller coaster of growing up without extra problems. I sat there, smoothing out the tangles of her hair like I did when she was little.

Finally, she said, Mama, I don’t want to go to Montana. What about my school? My friends? The Cheer Team? I really want to be a cheerleader, you know how hard I’ve worked.

Tammy, it’s going to be hard, I know. Daddy is doing what he feels is best for all of us. We’re both counting on you. Get ready for school. Daddy will be there by the end of the last period to sign the papers and to pick up your locker stuff. I’m glad all your finals were finished last week.

Bart came to the door asking, How’s my girl? I’m fine, Daddy, I’ll be ready in a minute. She gave him a nice smile, even though her heart wasn’t in it. Bart took the kids to school and made several stops to get empty boxes for us. It was time to start sorting. What do we take? For that matter, what kinds of clothes will we need? Jackets? Jeans? Sweaters? Sweats? Our camping type clothing and outdoor type stuff and warm clothing for sure. I could feel the tears welling up when I realized several minutes had been spent going from room to room, picking up clothing, only to throw them down in jumbled pile by the washer. Two weeks? Only two weeks to get everything ready? I remembered what Kathy said last night about washing clothes in a creek, now I really wanted to cry. Seeing a rip in John’s jeans, I stopped and sewed them up. That’s another thing, a sewing machine. I’d better see if anything else needs to be repaired.

As Bart came in, I asked, Can I take my sewing machine? I’ll need it not only to mend clothes but to make clothes as the kids grow. Honey, there’s no electricity and you can’t take all our clothes either. Your’s and Tammy’ s alone, would fill your truck, he teased.

Don’t be funny. I know we can’t take all our clothes! I stopped as big tears filled my eyes.

Honey, I love you. I know the sewing machine is important to you. Don’t worry, I’ll fix that. Oh, Hoss and I are going to buy everyone those new snake boots. I’m asking a lot from you and the kids but I really think we’re doing what is best for all of us. He said as he put his arms around me, holding me tight he kissed me gently, the jarring ring of the phone interrupting the moment.

Picking up the phone, I heard Kathy say, Jo, I thought we should go over to Mom’s and tell her before she finds out on her own. I’ve got Sally keeping Cindi for the day. You’re right Kathy. Come get me and we’ll see her together. Okay, I’ll be over to get you, bye. Bart, that was Kathy. She’s coming to get me, we’re going over to tell Mom. Do you want to come too?

Honey, I really need to get your car to Fred and get the Suburban. We’ll do the paper work. Dad said we could use his address. Then I’ll have the Suburban checked out completely, and buy new mud tires. I’ll be back as soon as I can. Oh, he says the color of the suburban is coffee with cream. I’d call it light cocoa but it looks real good.

Kathy arrived shortly. As we drove off, she said, I’m afraid, Jo. I agreed to go, but I’ll need your help. I know Kathy, I replied, Montana is a long way from here. Suppose Mom should get sick or need us. We will be so far away to help her.

Kathy snapped, Hoss and Bart should tell her. It’s their idea! Hoss said, we could do a better job. Oh, you tell her Jo. You are her daughter, I’m just a daughter-in-law. Thank’s a lot! I said letting out a loud sigh, Oh boy, we’re here already. Mom was in the kitchen when we arrived. She stopped, giving us a startled look.

She asked, What’s wrong? I shook my head wondering why Mothers always seem to know. I asked, Mom can’t Kathy and I come to visit, does something have to be wrong?

Jolene Rena, don’t you banty words with me! I’ve been uneasy all night. I just knew something was up. I could feel it in my bones.

Okay Mom! Bart quit his job! You know the trouble he’s had at work? Well, he just wouldn’t take it any longer. I paused, looking at Kathy.

Mom, Kathy said, taking her turn, Hoss, well he’s gone crazy, too. He’s quitting today.

Mom looked at us with dazzling gray eyes, smiling said, It’s their mountain dream home! That’s it, isn’t it. I gasped, Mom, how did you know… .

Mom interrupted, You girls haven’t really been listening or seeing your men. Oh, you heard, but you didn’t listen. You looked at them but you didn’t really see them. You didn’t see the sparkle in their eyes when they talked about going to the mountains. They were alive! Oh, I wish I was younger, I would go, too. If your father was still here, he would go. You wouldn’t be able to leave without him!

Suddenly I said, Mom, why not? Why can’t you go? You were raised on a farm. You know a lot of things we don’t. You would be a lot of help.

Kathy spoke up, Mom, we really need you. There is so much you still have to teach the kids.

I interrupted, Mom, the hardest part for me is leaving you behind. You want to go, don’t you? I know things will be hard but we’ll all be together. Well, how about it? What do you say? Will you come with us?

When Mom started to cry, the tension was broken and we were all crying. Mom sighed, wiping her tears away, Okay, count me in! When do we leave?

Kathy and I laughed as I said, Bart and Hoss said they’d give us two weeks.

‘TWO WEEKS! Oh, my! Two weeks, really? When he gets a burr under his saddle, he sure takes off! All right, if that’s the way it is to be, okay. Come on, girls, we have a lot to do, so dry those eyes. Mom stated, handing us each paper, she started making a list. Come on, girls. Get writing! We’ll be backtracking and wasting time if we don’t work together. I’ll make a list for the guys to make sure we have what we need. They will probably add to it. There’s so much to do. Be sure and check off on you lists." Both Kathy and I agreed.

Mom, you need to see your doctor tomorrow for a complete checkup. Also, get the okay for a year’s worth of prescriptions. Bart is checking Tammy and John out of school today, so they’ll be able to help. Kathy snorted, Hoss can check our two out tomorrow. Then they can help, too.

Mom replied, Yes. Kathy, while I’m at the doctor’s, you call the paper. See if we can still get in an ad for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. We’re going to have the biggest yard sale this town has ever seen. You girls go home and start culling. One good thing about being under a deadline, we don’t have time to get in a muddle on things that can’t be taken. Bring everything to be sold over here. Remember, price low, we must sell everything that won’t go with us. Oh Jolene, what about school for the kids next September?

Well, Mom, with the school situation being a lot rougher now, Bart and I have been considering pulling Tammy and John out. If it wasn’t for John being so good at sports and Tammy being nominated for the Cheerleading Team, we would have done it before this. We have talked with others about home schooling and what it is all about. A lot of parents are taking the plunge and teaching their kids at home.

Mom looked up, saying with a twinkle in her eyes, Oh, Jolene, it would please me to teach my grandchildren. She straightened her shoulders. Her long brown and silver hair braid in a crown on the top of her head, making her five foot six inches. In the crisp white apron and black sensible shoes, she resembled an old fashioned school mom.

Bart was home when I got there. I told him all we had discussed, including Mom’s decision to come too! I wasn’t really sure how he would take it.

Honey, that’s great. She will be a lot of help. He laughed, saying, If nothing else, she can keep Cindi out of trouble. Cindi’s almost two. She the youngest of Hoss and Kathy’s three children. Her long blonde curls dance as she runs. With sparkling bright blue eyes, she’s just a little doll. But she has a knack for getting into trouble. I think she took after her father. Mom always said Hoss was an active youngster. I’m sure I was her angel! Gary is the middle child. He has bright reddish blonde hair, light blue eyes. He just turned eight and big for his age. Even though John, our son, is about three years older, he and Gary are close to the same size. They are closer than brothers could ever be. Lee Ann, is ten years old and the oldest of the three children. She too, has reddish blonde hair and beautiful blue eyes. She’s all tomboy but starting to notice boys might be okay for more than wrestling and racing. Actually all our kids like fishing and camping. It has been a family affair at the hunting grounds for several years. All our kids know not to touch our guns, even little Cindi.

The days flew by fast. It was nice that we had so much help from our friends. They not only came to help, they brought so much food and sweets. Pastor David said grace and asked we have a safe trip. We had more than we all could eat. We just couldn’t have done it without our church family. We did have the biggest yard sale this town had ever seen. Bart went to the bank and rented locked night deposit bags. Bart or Hoss deposited the money each night at the bank. They, also, stayed at Mom’s house each night. Ginger, our German Shepherd was on guard duty. The rest of us stayed at Hoss’s and Kathy’s house. They had rented it furnished and their landlord was very understanding, as he gave advice on living in the mountains with a far away look in his eyes. With JR, Hoss’s German short hair pointer standing guard duty for us.

Monday, I called a second hand shop to buy what was left from the yard sale. Bart’s father agreed to handle business for us. So Bart had taken his father to our Bank and He could now sign on our account taking care of our business He had a friend who was a Realtor where we listed our houses, and Mom’s for sale. Mom sold her car to an old friend. She was going to ride with Tammy and I in the Suburban. Hoss sold Kathy’s car and bought a sixteen foot trailer to pull behind his Red Jeep. Bart would be pulling our twenty four foot trailer behind his pickup.

Our two weeks were gone, it was time to leave. We had everything loaded, ready to go. The treadle sewing machine Bart bought for me was carefully wrapped and loaded in the back of his pickup. I had our safe in a back pack in my supply box in the back of my Suburban. All the kids were in their bedrolls on the floor. Bart and Hoss, with the maps, were making last minute checks on our route. Mom, Kathy and I joined them at the kitchen table, having one last glass of ice tea before bed. We were leaving at first light. Mom said a prayer of thanks for all our many blessings and for a safe trip. We all said, Amen. We went to bed, for morning would come early.

CHAPTER 2

The alarm rang before first light. Ahhh… oh… I moaned. Every muscle in my body hurt as I got to a standing position. Rolling up my bedroll, I complained, Kathy, your floor is hard.

Kathy laughed, saying, Wait ’till tonight, when we’re sleeping on the soft ground. Ha!

She started breakfast, while I got the kids up. Getting them dressed and in ‘n’ out of the bathroom was a real challenge until Hoss noticed.

Girls, he bellowed, if ya’ll are not out within ten minutes, that door comes down! It worked, they were right out. He looked at the boys, In ‘n’ out now, there’s others waiting.

Mom laughing, asking, Son, how long do I have? Hoss just shook his head. We all laughed.

After breakfast, Bart told the kids to bring him their bedrolls so he could pack them in the wooden box in the back of his pickup truck. Kathy and I were cleaning up from breakfast when Cindi came in crying. Mommy! Mommy, she sobbed, Uncle Bart sasss bring beds. Mommy, bring beds ‘n’ go! Me go? Me no bed! Mommyyyy! Peas!

Kathy quickly picking Cindi up in her arms, saying, You’re going to sleep with me in my bed roll. You don’t have one. As Kathy walked out to the truck, carrying Cindi, still crying.

Tammy came over explaining, Aunt Kathy, Gary told Cindi, she wasn’t going because she didn’t have a bed roll. I told her, he was just kidding, but it didn’t help.

Hoss, hearing this, came over taking Cindi in his arms said, You are Daddy’s little girl, we’re not leaving you here, baby. That stopped her crying and he handed her back to Kathy. Then he reached out grabbing Gary by the shoulder.

Bart called out, Hoss wait. You need to take both boys. It’s going to be a long trip and I’d like for us to make a pact. If any one of the kids needs help or correcting, whoever sees the problem, handle it. No matter, whose child it is.

Hoss replied, That’s a good idea. Mom, Jo, Kathy and Tammy. You kids listen. You need to obey not just us but Tammy as well. We are all in agreement. With his hands on both the boy shoulders, Hoss marched them off to the side.

Mom spoke up, "Kathy, Cindi is a baby, let her keep her blanket up front. You may need it in the early mornings and late evenings to cover her.

Bart said, Honey get the camp boxes packed, I need to load them.

Kathy handed Cindi to Lee Ann saying, Watch her. Jo, I’ll go through the house first, to make sure we didn’t leave anything and then I’ll be in to help ya’ll.

Mom and I finished packing the camp boxes, putting the left over food in the ice chests. Tammy and Kathy showed up just as we finished.

Bart and Hoss loaded it all in Bart’s pickup, tying a big blue tarp over everything. They put Hoss’s German short haired pointer bird dog, JR in his cage on Hoss’s back right—hand corner of Hoss’s trailer! Then Hoss locked the house doors, taking the key next door to their landlord.

Hoss, Kathy, Cindi, Lee Ann, and Gary were to lead in his Red Jeep, towing his sixteen—foot trailer. Driving my Suburban, I followed with Mom, Tammy and Ginger. Bart was bringing up the rear with John in his Ford pickup with the twenty four foot trailer.

The goal was to reach Amarillo, to camp for the night. It promised to be a beautiful day. All our vehicles were equipped with C B radios, tuned to Channel nineteen. We had some trouble getting through Dallas. We ending up on the wrong highway, having to backtrack in that traffic wasn’t easy. It was a collective sigh of relief when our caravan was safely on Highway two eighty four.

Then everyone was getting hungry, we stopped in the pretty town of Henrietta for lunch and a break from driving. John, Gary and the dogs burned their excess energy playing ball. We moved Lee Ann back to my Suburban to ride with us and Gary to ride with Bart and John in the pickup.

It was dark when we pulled into the camp ground just out of Amarillo. The guys put up the tents while Kathy and I got supper ready. Mom and Tammy watched the kids on the swings. After supper, everyone was glad to hit the bedrolls. We had brought Mom a metal cot with a sponge mattress.

It was still dark when the alarm went off. Putting the kids in the vehicles without breakfast and giving them pillows, they quickly went back to sleep.

Shortly after eight A.M. we stopped just outside of Masterson at a road side park for breakfast. We let the dogs romp on a long lead while we ate. The kids change into street cloths. We enjoyed the stop but we couldn’t stay long. It was time to get back on the road. At Dumas we continued west on Highway 87 to intercept Interstate 25 at Raton, New Mexico, hoping to spend the night in Denver, Colorado. Raton Pass was the next gas stop. The cashier told Bart of a small park located just few blocks away where we could have a break from driving. It was such a pretty little park, Kathy and I enjoyed watching the kids and dogs playing while we fixed sandwiches. Denver was still quite a few miles down the road.

Chaining the dogs to guard our vehicles with trailers, we stopped for a quick supper of Burgers in Colorado Springs. We swapped the kids around again. Cindi came to ride in the Suburban with Mom and me to give Kathy a break. Sitting on Mom’s lap, listening to her stories about her younger farm days, Cindy started to doze off and drowned Mom! We had let her drink too much coke at supper.

We pulled over to get both of them changed. I’m not changing on the side of the road. Mom politely but firmly stated, Jolene, I’ll wait! Mom changed at the next gas station, where we got directions to a camp ground for the night.

Picking up supplies at a small market, we hurried because everyone was tired and looked forward to reaching the camp ground to stop for the day. The campground was okay but all of us were too tired to notice. Grateful for the tents being put up so quickly and not one complaint was heard with, Lights out. At dawn we hit the road again. Cindi rode with Mom and me in the Suburban. Mom put a thick padding of towels under her, just in case, which sat her up on a higher level so see could out the window much better.

Lunch was in a real pretty road side park just outside Cheyenne, Wyoming on Interstate 25. It was tranquil, with the girls picking wild flowers. Until Lee Ann screeching, at the top of her voice, DADDY! SNAKE! Frozen in her tracks! Tammy screamed, DADDY A SNAKE! as she quickly grabbed Cindi, running back to us. Lee Ann was still screeching, when Ginger arrived and attacked the snake.

Bart and Hoss ran to the girls. When they met Tammy carrying Cindi, Bart stopped to see if they were all right. Hoss went on to Lee Ann but by that time Ginger had killed the snake. Hoss yelled, She’s all right, it’s only a King snake and Ginger’s killed it.

We were lucky this time, Bart replied, shaking his head, It’s time to get out our guns and keep them handy? What do you think Hoss?

THINK! Kathy yelled, There is no thinking to it. We are going home! She was steadily mumbling to herself as she was throwing stuff in the camping box.

Mom calmly ordered, Kathy, stop that and sit down. NOW!

Hoss commented, trying to console her, Babe, remember? Just last week I killed a copperhead in our own back yard? Yes, she yelled, that was a little snake. Little! Snorted Hoss, Little doesn’t have a thing to do with it. A copperhead snake is a poisonous snake and a King snake won’t hurt you. It kills other snakes.

Okay, everybody. Thanks to Kathy, we are packed. Let’s get on the road. stated Bart.

Tammy said, Aunt Kathy, it’s going to be okay. Really.

Mom sighed, Jolene hand Cindi to me. You need to give Ginger a treat, she was right there when the girls needed her.

You’re right, Mom, she sure was. I gave her some lunch meat and J R some, also. He was on his chain and couldn’t go… I added, He sure tried. He came real close to breaking his chain.

Hoss came over to the Suburban. Jo, here’s your three fifty seven Colt, belt and holster. Bart loaded your loops and five shells in your colt. Here’s your shell bag, put it under your seat.

This seemed to have been the longest day of the trip. Dark came before we got to Casper camp grounds for the night. We were all tired. There was not much conversation, we just fed our stomachs. Lee Ann was afraid a snake might be in the shadows. She wanted to sleep next to her Daddy. Tammy had Ginger on her bedroll. We were all tired. The three-day trip was taking its toll on all of us.

Sitting up, I stated to no one in particular, We need to stop at a motel tomorrow night! All agreed it was a great idea. We could bathe and wash our hair and sleep on a Real Bed!

Kathy said, Jo, we can go wash all the dirty clothes too, while the guys watch the kids.

I sleepily replied, Sounds good to me. I’m going to turn in. I’m dead tired. I put my Colt under my pillow. We all slept so soundly, a hundred wild elephants could have tromped through our tents and unless one of them stepped on us, I doubt if any would have notice.

Hoss fumbled for the alarm when it rang. My eyes felt gritty and it seemed like I had only just laid down. Mom was getting very tired, too. She didn’t say so but I could tell. I whispered to Hoss, We need to let Mom rest as long as possible. Hoss replied, Yeah. I see it, too.

Bart groaned as he stretched saying, Oh, Honey, let’s get everyone up. The sooner we get loaded, the sooner we get there.

Sheridan was the next stop, to put on the feed bag and to stretch. We made it fast so we could get back on the road. John and Gary seemed to be the only ones whose enthusiasm and energy were not dimmed by the grueling miles. They’re eyes twinkling, constantly having their heads together and dreaming about the adventures coming up.

Everyone gave a hoop and holler when the signs for Billings started appearing on the Interstate. There was a nice motel on the edge of town, with a pool. Two rooms, each with two double beds and a roll-a-way bed was all we would need. Hoss, Kathy, their kids and John. Lee Ann on the roll-a-way stayed in one room. Bart, Tammy, Mom, Ginger and I stayed in the other. J. R. was chained to the big trailer with water and food standing guard.

Ah, Dad! Do I have to shower now? Why? I’ll get wet enough in the pool. Gary complained.

Hoss laughingly said, House rules! Your body hasn’t seen water all at one time since we started. Get in the shower quick. See, John’s already been in ‘n’ out while you’ve been arguing. If you’re going swimming, you better hustle! Get a move on before Lee Ann gets in there!

Kathy and I, after showering took all the dirty clothes in the Suburban to find a laundry. We found one a few blocks away. It was not a great looking place. I turned around and went back to the motel. Kathy got out and got Ginger. We went back to the Laundromat, taking Ginger with us. I took my gun from under my seat, putting it in my shoulder bag. Kathy, Ginger and I went in and washed our dirty clothes. We didn’t have any trouble, Ginger was all we needed. When we returned to the motel, Mom was asleep. I hated waking Mom up but a good hot meal would refresh her as much as anything else.

A Mexican café was just across the street. The food was very good and filling but the thought that a REAL bed was waiting for us, made it taste that much better.

As we were walking back to the motel, Hoss said to Bart, That big station we passed a few blocks back. Let’s go there to service the vehicles in the morning. Good idea. Bart answered.

I replied, Hoss, let the alarm clock rest tonight. Let’s sleep late.

Hoss chuckled, You got it, Sis! We do need to be out by noon.

It was ten after eight, when Ginger woke me, wanting to go outside. As I opened the door for her and standing in the doorway watching. Tammy whispered, Mama, can I go swimming this morning?

I’d like to let you but we have to go service the vehicles. Mom spoke up, Let her go, Jolene. I’ll sit out there while she swims. Oh, Mom, I’m sorry we woke you.

Ya’ll didn’t wake me. I’ve been laying here for sometime, just didn’t want to disturb you guys.

Bart stated, Honey, call Ginger in and close the door so I can get dressed.

As I called Ginger in, Kathy came in behind her. She chuckled, Ain’t ya’ll up yet? We’ve been up at least twenty minutes. Hoss is getting dressed, he asked me to tell ya’ll he would like to go service the vehicles and bring back breakfast so we can leave for Helena before noon.

Bart grumbled, Kathy, tell him I’ll get dressed and come over as soon as I get that door closed! I’m not going in my shorts. Picky, picky, she laughed, closing the door.

Bart replied, Honey, you should wear your boots from now on, just in case. That goes for you too, Tammy and tells your brother, also. Daddy, they’re hot and stiff! Can’t I just carry them and wear my tennies? Tammy sighed. Tammy, remember the snake. I replied, handing her the keys to the Suburban. Please get all the boots. Yes, Mama. Tammy answered, leaving for the Suburban.

Bart said, I don’t know what the roads are like once we pass Helena. Sooner or later we’ll be making our own road.

Tammy returned with all our boots and as I was pulling mine on she asked, Can I still go swimming? Bart gave her a stern look saying, Yes but lay out your clothes first, next to your boots. Pack your tennies! You be sure to tell your brother, also. Mom, let her swim about thirty minutes. That way she’ll have plenty of time to bathe and be dressed. We are leaving by noon. Honey, let’s go. Hoss is waiting.

As we went out, Hoss was lifting J R’s cage out placing it by their door. I stepped inside their room and told Kathy that Mom was going to watch Tammy swim. I thought Lee Ann might like to go, too.

Lee Ann was right there begging, Let me go please… please… please?

Kathy snapped, Lee Ann be quiet! Jo is there time?

Yes, Bart told Mom to let Tammy swim for thirty minutes. She would still have time to bathe and be dressed by noon. Kathy asked, When will they eat? I laughted saying, Kathy, the girls are interested in those boys at the pool, not eating. They can eat in the car. Bart’s calling, I’ve got to go. Oh, John can’t go swimming.

Bart and Hoss were ready to leave. I hopped in the Suburban pulling up behind Hoss. We went to the station, servicing our vehicles completely. All three had big dual gas tanks. Hoss and I had two large gas cans each on the back of our vehicles filled with extra gas. Bart, also, had two large cans but they were filled with kerosene for the lanterns. We bought several cases of oil and some other supplies to take with us.

We agreed to stop at the store down on the right. I got sausage biscuits and fruit for our breakfast, as well as a few other items we needed.

We made it back to the motel in time to see that Kathy had John and Gary standing in separate comers facing the walls. Kathy stated, Glad you’re back. You know that small bomb you dropped as you left? What bomb? I gasped as I handed her a sack. She snapped, That the girls could go swimming but the boys couldn’t. Oh! That bomb Bart said John had a little trouble with a couple of those bigger boys yesterday evening. He thought it would be best John stayed away from them.

That may be so but he can throw a terrific fit. She sighed, I told them they could not go swimming. When I turned my back they went to the pool anyway. They were just sitting with Mom but I made them come back with me. Now you know why they are in the corners.

Bart said, Kathy, I’m sorry. Don’t worry about it, Gary was just as bad. Kathy said.

Hoss interrupted, Where’s Mom and the girls? They bad, too! Mime’s got them in dere. Cindi piped up, pointing next door to our room. I gave out a startled, WHAT!

Kathy replied, Oh, they didn’t want to leave the pool and those boys. When they were told to get out, they kept diving back in. So Mom ordered them out! She’s kept them in ya’ll’s room!

I gasped, Boy, have ya’ll had fun. I’m sorry.

Bart reached for John as he said, I’m going to have a talk with my two.

Hoss said, Good idea, how about we do it together. That seems to be the trouble! Together. When they are together, they can be a real hand full. You’re right. Let’s all go to our room where Mom and the girls are, Bart stated. Hoss, giving Gary that look which said you’re in enough trouble, don’t push it growled, Move it now.

Hoss reached down picking up Cindi, noticed big tears in her eyes as she sobbed, Daddy, I good, me no bad. Giving her a broad smile Hoss said, Baby, I’m just carrying you. Then he kissed her cheek and hugged her. Then she was all smiles. As we all enter. Oh my, now what’s the matter? Mom asked. Bart and Hoss are going to talk to the kids, Mom. I explained.

Kathy ordered, All of you kids get over there and sit on that bed.

Bart stated, Look this is not a vacation, or a weekend camp out. We need your help. You can help us and each other by doing what we say. We must put Safety First. We love you and we don’t want anyone to get hurt. We are through talking. Now! You do what you’re told, when you’re told, and every time you’re told!

Hoss emphasized, Your lives depend on your minding. I know your butts do. Bart looked at Hoss and stepped over beside him. They both stood there with their hands on their hips, legs firmly apart, looking at the children. I was beginning to feel sorry for the kids, myself.

Mom spoke up, easing the tension, Son, we’re still in town. They were just letting off steam. When the need arises, I believe they can be depended upon. What are we having for breakfast, or is it ‘early lunch.?

I asked, Bart, will you get the milk and some cups? Hoss, would you get Mom, Kathy and me a coke? It’s sausage biscuits, fruit, and fruit bars for breakfast. Tammy asked, Could I have a coke?

Nodding, I replied, Run and get one out of the blue ice chest.

Hoss said, Okay, but hustle. Let’s eat up, we need to get on the road. Turning to him, Bart added, You’re right. We will see some mountains today.

Kathy asked, Mountains, what were those we’ve already seen, mole hills? That’s right. Let’s get a move on. Hoss answered, patting Kathy on the back. We will be setting up camp in the dark.

Hold it, I stated, before we leave all you kids use the rest room. We’re not stopping two miles down the road for you to and make sure you have everything.

Oh, I have the clothes ya’ll wore yesterday in my room. Kathy interjected, There was a washer and dryer in that room by the pool, so I washed everything up again while ya’ll were gone.

Hoss stated sharply, Just load everything in the trucks. We’re going to the same place. You can give them to her tonight when we stop.

Moms said, Son, don’t be so impatient. Let the girls have time to eat. You run the dogs, that will help. Hoss nodded saying, I’m sorry. We just have so far to go and so little time.

I smilingly said, Hoss, if you will run the dogs and load things up, we will be ready to leave.

Kathy and I packed all the clothes. Double checked our rooms to be sure we had everything. The guys loaded the dogs and everything else. They had the map on the hood of the Jeep looking at it.

Putting my sausage and biscuit, coke, quart jar of ice and water wrapped in a towel on the seat beside me,