Living to Tell Your Story

By Mikey Graham

August 1952, the Korean War was in its second year. Granny stirred the pot on the stove as the image of Andy getting on the bus headed to the army base crossed her mind; she heard a noise then looked toward the front door. Momma looked up as she sat at the table shelling beans, impressed at the two men in uniform as they came in. They paused for a moment as they removed their caps. Her brother Andy was home on leave, bringing along a buddy of his, Clive, to enjoy a home-cooked meal and spend a few days on the Gulf Coast along the Long Branch River.

Andy had spun many tales of his time along the river, and Clive was eager to see for himself. Their daddy was at the store working alone; usually they all would work together, allowing his wife and daughter to be at home when they arrived. Clive was immediately attracted to Momma: slim build, long black hair, and hazel-green eyes. Momma was swept off her feet, and she and Clive married nine months later. Daddy had to force Clive to marry and face his responsibilities. Granny never did like him very much because he was much older than her daughter and there was always strife between them, but she was pleased the children would have a daddy. She turned fifteen ten days after giving birth to her firstborn.

By 1960, Momma had five children and a husband who was abusive and too interested in other women. Near year’s end, he decided to leave once again, never to return. He left the family car, but Momma could not drive. Granny was living with them since her husband passed, and she could not drive either. They met Allen Stone, who lived in their neighborhood, who agreed to drive them to Machanna, which should have only taken about four hours. Several months later, their kidnapper Allen Stone was arrested along with Momma. They were placed in a foster home until she was cleared of any involvement with him in his crime-ridden trail across the country. She remained there with them working in the foster home until she paid them back for their care and raised enough cash for the trip home. Almost a year later, they made their way to Uncle Andy’s house in Machanna.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Dec 4, 2022
• ISBN: 9781664141414

Mikey Graham

I was born on August 10, 1956, at Orange Memorial Hospital in Machanna, Florida, the middle child out of five children. My wife Tina and I have two children, a boy and a girl. I grew up in Machanna and its surrounding communities, briefly spending time in other states but always came back to Machanna. I attended several schools in the area, graduated at Jones High in Machanna. I studied ecology at Jones High in Machanna, had no interest in writing until I began therapy for PTSD in 2006. My therapist told me to begin keeping a journal of my office visits and write down everything I feel led to. My wife Tina bought a book, The Power To Write, for an unknown reason to me and kept it on her bookshelf in our office. I was on the computer one day and leaned back, pausing for a moment and looked over at her books and noticed it. I picked it up and began reading, and was intrigued by the statement saying that we all have a story to tell. By going through the writing exercises; first one sentence, then a paragraph, then a page I realized I can do this, and that I do have a story to tell. My therapist and I talked about the possibility of turning part of my journaling into a book, which resulted in an eleven-chapter book. This work of fiction is based on a true kidnapping, the first of many and trying events throughout our lives.

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Copyright © 2022 by Mikey Graham.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

This book is a work of fiction. Any references to historical events, real people, or real places, are used fictitiously. Other names, characters, places and events are products of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual events, places, or people-living or dead-is pure coincidence. Any biblical references is KJV.

Rev. date: 04/13/2023

Xlibris

844-714-8691

www.Xlibris.com

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T his work is dedicated to our momma, who passed away in 2022, for her tireless efforts in caring for her five children; and to our grandmother Granny, who passed away in 1997, for her tireless efforts in assisting momma for many years. Also to our oldest brother, who passed away in 2016, after many years of pain and suffering from multiple health issues.

Each of us has a story that needs to be told no matter who we are, where we come from, or what happened to us. If one person reads your story and it has been of help, it has served its purpose by enabling that person to get through his or her own struggles.

Everyone has something to cling to that enables them to get through the challenges we face in life. I recall this Bible verse when something happens, and I am searching for an answer and need strength to get through it: To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven.

Also, God said he will be with you and deliver you from evil not take you around it: Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil for thou art with me. You have to go through it, therefore making you a better person in the end.

CONTENTS

Chapter 1 The Front Porch

Chapter 2 Mr. Allen Stone

Chapter 3 The Black Bag

Chapter 4 The Nightmare

Chapter 5 A Close Call

Chapter 6 What Lies Ahead

Chapter 7 13 Shady Oaks Lane

Chapter 8 Route 66

Chapter 9 The Reckoning

Chapter 10 A Period of Time

Chapter 11 A New Beginning

1

The Front Porch

H e was not sure what the day would bring as he rolled out of bed that November morning. Daddy was a farmhand, and part of his pay was a small frame house that sat at the far end near the cow pen, in line with several other small square frame houses, each with a front porch, each one resembling the other in design as if they were stamped out of a mold. It was cold in the early morning hours before daybreak. The wood floor was cold to the touch of his bare feet, but Mikey was excited as usual to see his daddy before he went to join the other men in rounding up the cows for milking.

The smell of bacon hung in the air as he walked down the short hallway to the kitchen, the floorboards creaking slightly under his feet. The logs in the fireplace crackled as they burned, tiny sparks disappearing up the chimney, warming up the kitchen and living room. The sound and smell of breakfast being prepared caused his senses to pique. He imagined what the bacon, eggs, and grits would taste like, his stomach growling as he approached the doorway.

What Mikey was not expecting was the sight of his daddy holding his suitcase in his left hand instead of dressed to go round up the cows, which would have been his usual routine. The other children were just beginning to move around, unaware of what was taking place just a few feet away from where they were sleeping. He stopped in the short hallway, peeping around the corner, listening to his momma questioning his daddy about coming home late again. His fist pounded hard on the countertop, rattling the small drinking glasses Momma had set out, waiting to be filled with fresh milk.

His excitement faded as the questioning turned into arguing, which was not an unusual event, about the women he was seen with last night at the local bar not far from the little town of Pine Wood. His daddy always said he was just playing pool and hanging out with the guys after work, but in this small dairy community, everyone knew each other’s business. Mikey often thought to himself, When I grow up, I want to be just like Daddy. Momma told me that she didn’t want me to be like Daddy. Mikey often wondered what exactly was his momma trying to tell him. He always looked up to his daddy as the example of who he should be: work hard, have a family, a house, a car. He was four going on five years old and had it all figured out, unaware that the events which followed would change their lives forever.

Daddy took some cash out of his pocket, angrily tossed it on the counter, then headed for the front door.

The screen door slammed shut in Mikey’s face, his daddy completely unaware that he was following as he walked down the steps in the early morning light. He stood there looking through the screen, hesitating for a moment, tears rolling down his little red cheeks. Momma stood behind him. Although he didn’t turn to see her, he could sense her presence. His heart was racing. He imagined himself running after him; his legs froze, unable to move for a moment. He quickly pushed open the screen door, stopping near the top of the steps. The cool morning air hit him in the face harder than usual, his face wet with tears, fear and anxiety flooding his emotions.

The wooden steps creaked as he made his way down, standing barefoot on the damp cold ground, undeterred by the cold creeping into his feet. Questions raced through his mind: Where are you going, Daddy? When will you be back? Something felt different this time. He had a feeling deep inside unlike anything he felt before, like he wasn’t going to see him again. His daddy, the one he had looked up to, tucked him into bed, read him stories, was walking down the driveway without telling him goodbye or I’ll have gifts for all of you when I return.

Before he was out of sight, he turned, sensing he was there. I’ll see you soon, son, he said.

I love . . . you, . . . Daddy, Mikey replied, struggling as he spoke, tears dripping from his chin. He wanted to run after him to satisfy the strange new feelings he was experiencing, but Momma held him back, knowing what was happening. She knew this day was coming and wasn’t going to plead with Clive to stay anymore; this was it. He enjoyed the attention of other women too much. The morning sun was just beginning to rise behind the dairy house, giving the sky a light-blue tint, the tall pines standing at attention.

Daddy walked past the family car, then stopped, taking one last look at the Rambler Cross Country. She’ll figure out a way, he said to himself then continued down the dirt driveway to a vehicle waiting at the end.

It was still too dark to make out exactly who or what took him away. The door slammed shut. Maybe an old pickup truck, Mikey thought, cold tears dripping from his chin. He stood there watching until the taillights disappeared down the dirt road, a dust cloud rising up from behind.

He turned to go back in the house. Momma took him into her arms, giving him a hug and a kiss. I love you, she said reassuringly.

I love you too, Momma, he replied, wiping away the tears.

How about some of that bacon you love so much? she asked cheerfully, taking his mind away from what just happened, focusing on something he really enjoyed.

Let’s go, Mikey replied excitedly. And some of the grits and eggs too.

That sounds real good, she said. I’m hungry too. Let’s go on in, and I’ll finish cooking.

Momma has always taken good care of all of them and never left them, except to go grocery shopping or to that part-time job at the canning place over in town his daddy got for her and arranged a ride with our neighbor. Daddy let Granny move in with them back in Machanna. He didn’t like Granny very much and she didn’t like him very much either, but the grandkids came first; they would deal with their differences later. He was on military leave, got Momma pregnant, who was fourteen. Granny and Grandpa were furious. After Grandpa passed away, Granny moved in, giving them a live-in nanny. Daddy still complained a lot about not having enough money, always paying bills, the kids always needing something, no money for him. When Momma said something about him staying out at the bar instead of saving what little they had, that’s when they would fight. He would hit her and whoever was nearby.

Ray and Jean came walking down the hall to the kitchen talking about the Thanksgiving holiday from school, looking forward to a long weekend. Granny folded up the rollaway bed she slept on in the girls’ room, making her way to the kitchen as Momma and Mikey came back in the house. Momma and Granny finished preparing the food. The smell of fresh-cooked breakfast could wake up even the hardest sleeper, their sister Jodi. She came into the kitchen rubbing her eyes, making her way to her usual spot next to Mikey and his brother Ray. Baby sister Jeri was still asleep, totally unaffected by the aroma filling the morning air. The smell of fresh-cooked bacon, eggs, and grits was of no concern, at least for now.

Then they were all seated, and by some miracle, they managed to sit still long enough for Momma and Granny to serve breakfast. The house was still a little cool, as they laughed and played with the steam rising and swirling around from the small bowls of grits served to each of them. Momma made some of her skillet toast, serving it up with her famous homemade jelly from the guava bush in the backyard, selling jars of it to the neighbors. Granny grew up during the Great Depression and became quite handy with just about anything, teaching Momma about canning, preserving food, making clothes, growing vegetables. It was during those tough times Granny learned how to make use of everything; nothing was thrown out. She could take whatever they had and make it last.

Momma didn’t say anything about Daddy to the other children until after they ate their breakfast, not wanting to spoil their appetites. Mikey could see in Momma’s face that she was not very upset about Daddy leaving. After all, he did say, I’ll see you soon, son, so he was not upset anymore. He had left before for several days, but always came home.

The sun continued to rise, warming and lighting up the day as they finished their breakfast, anxious to go outside and play. Momma cleaned off the table, washing dishes, the usual sounds of the day beginning. She was humming a song as she washed the last of the dishes, eating what was left over, which was her usual way, not to take away from our portions. She always made sure we had our fill before she ate. Granny pulled her long gray hair into a bun on top of her head, gathered up our dirty clothes, and headed to the backyard where her washtub and scrub board was set up. She always kept herself busy with the never-ending chores: cooking, cleaning, gardening, and even entertaining with her stories from her childhood in Georgia then Florida where she and her husband owned a farm, and the tales from the Long Branch River, where she and her husband owned a country store and also ran the post office from inside the store.

They had been playing hide-and-go-seek for a while when Ray looked up from his hiding place behind the car. He noticed Momma walking across the front yard with Jeri in her left arm, returning from the farm boss’s house. The look on her face was not her usual cheerful one, but one of distress.

Come on inside, it’s lunchtime, Momma called out, motioning with her hand. They followed Momma back in the house, each one wondering what was going on. Momma sat Jeri down in her high chair then began telling them about what happened as she prepared some peanut butter and guava jelly sandwiches for all of them.

Since your daddy decided to leave, . . . we can no longer stay here, Momma said angrily, slamming the pack of paper plates down on the counter. Forgive me, Lord, for what I’m thinking. I knew this was going to happen one day, she said, tears rolling down her cheeks, dripping from her chin down to the countertop. She wiped the tears away as she finished preparing the last of the sandwiches and then carefully placed each sandwich on a paper plate. They said nothing, but waited for Momma to serve each of them along with a glass of milk.

We’re leaving tomorrow. Mr. Phil said we can stay longer, but I told him we can’t afford to stay any longer, we have just enough money to get to Machanna, Momma said, sitting down in her usual chair near the kitchen sink. I called your uncle Andy from Mr. Phil’s house, and he said we can stay there. It’s going to be tight, but we’ll manage.

Heartbroken and not sure of what to make of what they just heard, they looked at one another then to Momma for some kind of reassurance. She wiped away her tears, knowing for certain that what lay ahead was going to be a very bumpy and difficult road. Sometimes Daddy would leave for weeks and months and come back home, but this time, they had to move since these homes are only for the workers at the dairy farm. Daddy would have to find them this time if he changed his mind.

Ray looked at Mikey as if he knew something since he was always up when Daddy goes to work. He was right, and Mikey couldn’t hold it in any longer so he began telling everyone what he had seen and overheard this morning. Fortunately for Jeri, she was young and unaware of what was taking place. Her only concern was Momma and nursing. He told them he said, I’ll see you soon, son. They just looked at each other wondering where he was going this time and when he would be back, not really paying attention to what Momma said.

It’ll be all right, Momma said in a comforting tone, giving each one a hug and a kiss. She sat back down, stirring her bowl of grits, blowing across it. He left us the family car, but all of you know I can’t drive, Momma added, continuing to stir her bowl of grits then giving Jeri a bite. And you know he didn’t want me to learn either, but stay at home with you children, except for the canning plant job. How does he expect us to leave this place knowing we have to go after he quit his job? I’m glad your uncle Andy doesn’t live very far away, just need someone to drive us there.

They had a place to move to, but getting there would prove to be a long and torturous trail. Mikey thought to himself, Daddy will find us, but the look on his face revealed otherwise. Momma could sense his anxiety. She walked around the table, hugging and kissing each one of them again. Guess I better let Granny know, we have to start packing up soon. She told me this would happen someday. Granny, Momma called out down the hall.

Momma, Ray asked eagerly, can me and Mikey go fishing one last time?

Well, I don’t see why not, she answered, leaning over the high chair, giving Jeri another bite of the grits.

Thanks, Momma, the boys replied harmoniously, pushing away from the table then heading out the front door.

What is it, Audrey? Granny asked, the back screen door slamming shut behind her.

I just want you to know that, uh . . . Clive left this morning and he’s not coming back this time, Momma said.

I’m not surprised, Granny replied. I had a notion it was coming after he let me move in.

Your notions are always right, Momma replied, amazed at her intuition, and I’m glad you’re here too! I don’t know what I would do without your help.

Well, everything will work out, sweetie, Granny replied reassuringly. I have a feeling it will be hard on us, but God always provides a way.

Yep, you’re right about that, Momma replied cheerfully. He always does.

I’ll go ahead and get all the clothes washed, Granny said, then come in and help pack up.

All right, Momma replied. I’ll get all the dishes, pots, and pans washed then leave out only what we need for now.

All right, Granny replied, walking back down the hall. I’ll be in as soon as I can. The screen door slammed shut behind her.

Grab those cane poles while I dig up some of those worms, Ray said excitedly, squatting down beside the house in his usual spot near the chimney.

Okay, Mikey said excitedly. Get some good ones like last time.

They worked really well, didn’t they? Ray asked, digging in the rich soil. We caught that big bluegill.

Yep, that’s right, Mikey replied. Those little red ones, they wiggle when you poke them with the hook.

You boys be careful, Granny said, hanging clothes up on the clothesline.

Okay, Granny, the boys replied as they walked past.

They headed out to the pond not far from the house near the cow pasture, a light breeze picking up. The smell of the rich cow pasture soil hung in the air, the tall pines around the pond waving gently back and forth, beckoning us on to the pond.

Hey, Mikey, Ray said, let’s go to that spot on the other side in-between those trees. The wind is blowing this way, you should have your back to the wind. That way, the water is smoother in front of you. The fish seem to bite better too!

Okay, Mikey replied eagerly, looking forward to catching another nice bluegill or two for Momma to prepare for dinner. This will be our last fish fry, he said sadly, holding his cane pole as Ray baited the hook then set the bobber in place.

Uncle Andy might be able to take us fishing, Ray replied. I’m sure there are ponds near his house.

That would be fun! Mikey replied with renewed enthusiasm, laying his line gently in the water like Ray taught him.

Momma was busy in the house, packing up as she had done when they had to move. Daddy insisted on working in the Forestry Service over in Cypress, leaving a good job and selling their first home in the outskirts of Machanna. After a while, he wanted to work on a dairy farm down south in Pine Wood one of his army friends had recommended him, so here they went again. Momma told them he didn’t like staying in one place very long and wasn’t surprised they had to move again. We will adjust and make new friends as we have done before, she said softly to herself, trying to keep a good attitude.

Jean, is this right? Jodi called out.

Yeah, that’s right, she answered. One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, and ten, looks like you did it this time, Jodi, all by yourself.

Jodi looked at her sister, pleased at her accomplishment. Yep, she said with a smile.

We have colored chalk, but we don’t have a sidewalk, just a dirt road, Jean said cheerfully, giving Jodi a big hug, but that’s still a great-looking hopscotch mat.

Jean and Jodi played on for a while in the driveway, laughing and giggling as each one took their turn. Momma watched them through the screen door, smiling, holding Jeri, gently rocking her. One day you’ll be joining your sisters on the hopscotch mat, Momma said happily, giving her a big hug.

Momma continued watching the girls, her thoughts drifting back to when her brother Andy introduced her to Clive while they both were on military leave in Alabama then taking a bus to the Long Branch River to visit for a few days. Clive’s family lived up north, too far away for a short visit. He was a striking man in uniform. Momma was fourteen, young, beautiful, naïve. He swept her off her feet. Her thoughts snapped back to the present when she heard Jean call out to her.

Momma, . . . Momma! Jean cried out. Can Jeri come out and play with us?

I’m sorry, sweetie, what was it? she asked, looking up through the screen door, her thoughts caught up in wondering how they would get to Machanna and what she would do for income once they got there. Andy would take them in, but he may not be able to afford the expenses of five children.

Can Jeri come out and play with us? Jean asked again. Jodi stood next to her waiting for Momma to answer, hoping she would let her just this one time before they moved.

Well, . . . maybe for a few minutes, Momma answered. It’s pretty hot today, don’t want too much sun on the baby. She pushed the screen door open, stepped out on the porch; the breeze in the shade was cool and refreshing. She wiped the sweat from her brow, walking down the two creaking steps, stopping at the bottom for a moment, recalling Mikey as he stood there this morning watching his daddy walk away.

Let’s take a break from packing, Momma said, taking Jeri out to where her sisters were playing. The breeze blowing across the driveway felt cool, even in the hot afternoon sun. Momma dripped in perspiration; the box fan in the house was only used if you were nearby.

Momma put Jeri down, holding her tiny hands, her feet just touching the dirt road for the first time, her tiny toes curling under. A little smile developed on her face. The feel of the dirt to her skin was a new experience, but she enjoyed it very much.

Let me hold her hands, Momma, Jean said, excited to show Jeri the hopscotch mat.

Momma was reluctant at first, but then agreed. Okay, but only for a few minutes. We have packing to do. Momma stayed right beside Jeri as she attempted to take a step inside the first square.

Jean was strong, holding Jeri up by the arms, placing her feet inside the first square. Well, . . . her feet are in the square, Jean said, but she is too young to begin walking.

Yep, I was one when I began walking, Jodi said with a smile.

That’s right, sweetie, Momma replied, smiling. It was your first birthday, that’s right. She hugged them both then took Jeri back in her arms and headed back to the house. She walked slowly, contemplating their situation, praying she had done the right thing by not begging Clive to stay.

With Jeri in her arms, she sat in the rocking chair on the right side of the porch, her favorite. She watched the girls play hopscotch for a bit then looked up at the Rambler Cross Country station wagon, wondering how she was going to get to Machanna. Granny didn’t have a license or driving experience either. Her husband always drove the car; she wasn’t allowed to.

Jeri, . . . what should we do? Momma asked. Try driving that car myself or . . . maybe . . . maybe one of your daddy’s work friends could help us out of this jam? That might work, but then how would he get back here?

Granny came out on the porch, taking a break from washing and hanging up the clothes to dry, sitting in her favorite spot, the rocking chair to the left. She rocked back and forth, thinking about their situation, leaning over, occasionally spitting tobacco juice in her little can sitting near the foot of the rocking chair. Why don’t we ask one of the men Clive worked with, see if they know anyone who could drive us to Machanna?

I was just thinking the same thing, Momma answered. There is one man he was friends with. That fellow Joey who was in the army with him talked him into coming to this place, maybe he can help or knows someone.

Well, we’re running out of time, Granny replied. Need to find out soon if anyone can drive us there, then, uh, . . . maybe . . . help buy him a bus ticket back here.

That’s a good idea, Momma replied wearily. I’ll go back next door and talk to Mr. Phil and see if he can ask Joey and the other men Clive worked with.

All right, Audrey, Granny replied. I’ll stay here and watch the kids, need a break anyway.

All right, Momma, she said. I’ll be right back. I sure pray this works. I knew I should have learned to drive the first time he left.

Yep, Granny replied, looking up at Momma, nodding her head.

Let’s go, Jeri, Momma said, stepping off the porch, walking back across to Mr. Phil’s house. She knocked on the door, holding Jeri in her left arm, waiting nervously once again for the door to open.

Well, hello again, Mrs. Graham, Mr. Phil said, looking through the screen door. What can I do for you?

Clive left me the car, but I don’t have a license, Momma answered, relieved that Mr. Phil wasn’t angry. I was wondering if there was anyone Clive worked with who could drive us to Machanna. My brother Andy will take us in, but I just need a driver. Maybe Joey or one of the other fellows can help.

Well, . . . there is one man I know who can help, Mr. Phil answered, stepping out on the porch, followed by a tall brown-haired man smoking a cigarette, his eyes hidden behind sunglasses. I’m glad you came back over. I was talking to my cousin Allen Stone here about your situation, and I was going to let you know that he and his wife are divorced and he’s looking to relocate. He can drive you to Machanna, he’s going up that way. He was going to leave Monday morning hitchhiking, but he said he could go ahead and leave Saturday.

That sounds good, Momma replied with a sigh of relief. Thank you, Lord, she prayed.

Al, this is Mrs. Graham, Mr. Phil said, stepping aside.

Nice to meet you, Mrs. Graham, Allen said, nodding his head. Al is fine with me.

It’s nice to meet you as well, Al, Momma replied, looking over her shoulder to see Ray and Mikey walking up to their porch. Guess I should be going, looks like we are having fish for dinner.

I’ll be over in the morning about eleven thirty or so like Phil was telling me, Allen replied, looking Momma up and down then over at the children.

That’s fine, Momma replied. Everything should be packed up soon, just have to load the car. We could use a hand loading those rocking chairs, though.

I can do that for you, Mrs. Graham, Allen said, smiling, blowing a smoke ring up to the ceiling.

That’s okay with me, Al, Momma replied. They have to be tied down on the roof rack. Sure don’t want to leave them here, that’s our favorite chairs. My daddy hand-made those.

Of course, Mrs. Graham, Allen replied reassuringly. I’ll be over a little earlier to help with that.

If you need a little more time, it won’t be a problem, Mr. Phil said. I just need a little time to clean up the house. The couple won’t be here until next week.

That’s all right, we really can’t afford to stay. I thank you, Mr. Phil, for everything, Momma said. We’ll be ready by noon, like to travel in the daylight and get there with plenty of time to unload everything.

All right then, sounds like the problem is solved, Mr. Phil replied happily.

Well, I’ll see you then, Mrs. Graham, Allen said, nodding his head then adjusting his sunglasses.

All right, Al, see you then, Momma replied, happy that everything was working out fairly quickly.

Hey, Granny, look what we caught, Ray and Mikey called out as they walked up to the house holding up the stringer, expecting to see Granny scrubbing clothes on the well-worn scrub board. Granny, they called out again, walking around to the front of the house, several bream and bluegill hanging from the stringer, the lower one dragging in the sand.

Granny, . . . look! Mikey exclaimed excitedly, running up to the side of the porch.

Look at that, Granny replied with amazement, her blue eyes wide open.

Can you help us clean them? Ray asked. I don’t remember exactly how you showed us.

I sure can, Ray, Granny replied. Just give me a few minutes to get my fish-cleaning board and knife. You and Mikey meet me around back by my old washtub near that pine tree stump.

Thanks, Granny, Mikey replied with a big smile.

Mikey and I could probably do it, but we need a few more lessons on cleaning, Ray said.

Oh, I don’t mind, boys, Granny replied with a big smile and a wink, happy that the fish they caught would be enough for all of them to have a hearty meal.

Mikey, Ray said, set those cane poles here by the porch so we don’t forget them in the morning.

Yep, don’t want to leave them here, Mikey replied, leaning the poles against the porch.

Mikey, Ray said, as they walked around back, we did really well for our last time fishing in that old pond, didn’t we?

Yep, sure did, Mikey said.

Now all we have to do is get these fish cleaned, and Momma can fry them up nice and tender and fix some of those hush puppies and fries, Ray said excitedly.

Yep, Mikey agreed with a big smile.

I’m sure going to miss this place, Ray said downheartedly.

Yep, me too, Mikey said sadly. Ray, . . . do you think Daddy is coming back like he said?

Well, Ray said confidently, how I see it is like this. Daddy has left before, and he always came home after he finished doing his business. Like he always said, ‘Have some business to take care of, see you boys soon.’

Yep, Mikey replied. Business to take care of.

Granny looked the stringer of fish up and down. Boys, . . . these sure are some nice fish, she said. Looking forward to this last fish fry before we leave this old farm. I can smell them cooking now. Go ahead and take them off the stringer, and I’ll show you how it’s done.

Okay, Granny, Ray replied, pulling fish after fish from the stringer, laying them in a pot of water.

Momma held Jeri in her arms, crossing back into the yard with a big smile on her face, pleased that things were working out, excited to tell Granny the news.

Jean and Jodi had stopped playing hopscotch and were lying on the grass looking up at the clouds, imagining different character shapes as the white billowing clouds blew across the afternoon sky. Hey, Jean, look at that one, Jodi said excitedly. It looks like a cow with a big . . . round . . . belly.

You’re right, Jodi, Jean replied, and that one looks like a dragon with a long slender body with his mouth open.

Yep, Jodi replied. A long . . . dragon.

Humph . . . I wonder where she went, Momma asked herself as she walked up to the porch, not seeing Granny sitting in her rocking chair. Jean, where’s Granny? She was just sitting here.

I don’t know, Momma, Jean answered. She was there a minute ago!

Momma, . . . Momma, Momma called out, standing with one foot on the bottom step.

I’m around back here, helping the boys with cleaning the fish they caught, Granny replied cheerfully, giving each of them a wink.

Oh okay, Momma, she replied, as she walked around the side of the house to the backyard. Well, look at those fish! That’ll make a great dinner, Momma said, stopping a few feet away, avoiding the fish scales that flew her way as Granny scraped them off with ease then grabbing another fish. That little pond back there is just full of fish.

It sure is, Granny replied, and these boys know how to catch them.

Well, Momma said excitedly, I talked to Mr. Phil, and he said his cousin Al can drive us to Machanna. He’s going up that way, and he’s not coming back here either and won’t need a bus ticket.

That sure is good news, Granny replied with a wink and a smile. I knew it would work out. I suppose we can meet this fellow Al in the morning then?

Sure can, Momma answered. His full name is Allen Stone, and Mr. Phil was talking to him about our situation. He will be over in the morning. I told him we would be leaving around eleven thirty, and he said he can come over earlier to help load the rocking chairs. Mr. Phil said if we need more time it’s okay, but I told him we’ll be ready, no sense in waiting around here.

We’ll be ready, Granny replied confidently, and I’m glad your brother Andy still lives in Machanna too! He was talking about moving, but just couldn’t do it.

I’m glad he is still nearby too! Momma said happily. You boys did a great job catching so many fish, I’m very proud of both of you.

Thanks, Momma, they both replied together, laughing heartily.

I’ll go on inside and get my fish batter and hush puppy mix going and cut up some potatoes, Momma said as she opened the back door, stopping at the first step, looking back at Granny thinking about how helpful it had been having her around.

Granny looked up at Momma with a big smile on her face, realizing Momma was watching her. She continued working effortlessly, fish scales flying in different directions. She grabbed the last one, scraped off the scales, cut off the head, scraped out the intestines, rinsed it off, then tossed it into the large kitchen prep bowl sitting to her right on a pine tree stump. The boys watched earnestly, trying to memorize the process, hoping next time they would be able to clean their own catch. Well, all that needs to be done now is to take the fish inside for Momma to prepare and cook them, Ray said as Granny cleaned the last fish.

Yep, let’s go, Mikey replied excitedly. Granny picked up the prep bowl and headed to the back door. You boys go on and play, and I’ll help your momma with dinner and watching Jeri.

Okay, Granny, Ray replied excitedly, running around the side of the house. Come on, Mikey, let’s go out front where the girls are.

Okay, Mikey replied, trying to keep up with his brother.

What are you doing? Ray asked, stopping near the girls as they lay on the ground, Mikey right beside him, looking up at the clouds.

We’re imagining what the different cloud shapes look like, Jean said, looking over at the boys. Hey, you were fishing, what’s for dinner? Did you catch some more bluegill?

Yep, Mikey answered, his eyes as big as a silver dollar. We caught one really big one.

Yeah, Ray replied. Mikey had it hooked on his pole, and I had to pull him in.

I couldn’t pull him in, he was heavy, Mikey said.

You should’ve seen that pole, it was bent over like this, Ray said, motioning with his hands like a bow.

Bluegill and bream, one then another, Ray said with a smile. Granny cleaned them, and she just took them in the house, some as big as her hand, you’ll see.

Yep, this big, Mikey said, emphasizing with his hands.

Granny said we can go play while she helps Momma, Ray said. Momma said she’s going to fix some hush puppies and fries too!

Oh boy, Jean replied. I can hardly wait, hush puppies and french fries and coleslaw, mmm . . . mmm.

Me too! Jodi joined in excitedly.

Hey, Mikey, Ray said, let’s just lie down here and see what we can see up in the clouds. After dinner, we can play hide-’n’-go-seek one more time until it gets dark.

Okay, Mikey replied, lying on the ground next to Ray.

Look at that one, it looks just like that old spotted cow down by the fence over near the pond, Ray said excitedly.

Yep, it sure does, Mikey replied. That one looks like that big bluegill.

That one looks like an arrow flying across the sky, Jean cried out excitedly.

Yep, Jodi replied, pointing up at the long, thin cloud moving slowly across the sky.

The screen door popped open, and Granny leaned around the edge of the door, calling out, It’s dinnertime, let’s go inside and get cleaned up, she said. There’s hot water in the tub, dinner will be ready by the time you’re all done washing.

Ray and Mikey were up and running to the house, wanting to be first in the bathtub and eager to get to the dinner table first. You boys are sure in a hurry, Granny said, holding the door open. Must be really hungry.

Yep, Ray and Mikey said, running past Granny then down the hall.

Jean and Jodi took one last look at the clouds for one last imaginary friend to show up. That one looks like our house, Jean said. After a few minutes of searching, she got up then took off running, racing to see who got to the screen door first.

Wait for me, Jodi said, running after her sister.

You’re it, Jean called out as she touched the screen door first. Last time I was it, now it’s back to you, she said, laughing, opening the door.

Yep, Jodi replied, laughing as she followed Jean inside, the screen door slamming shut behind them.

Momma sat Jeri down in the high chair at the kitchen table; the boys ran past her to the bathroom. You boys slow it down now, don’t need anyone getting hurt, Momma said firmly.

Okay, Momma, Ray replied. We’re just excited to be having fresh fish again and want to be first in the tub. Last night, we were the last ones in.

Yep, Mikey joined in. Fresh fish, hush puppies, fries, and coleslaw, right, Momma? he asked.

Yep, that’s right, my little man, Momma said with a big smile and a wink.

Granny came through the back door with another pot of water to heat up for Jean and Jodi; the kitchen sink was too small for her big stock pot. She would go back and forth from the stove to the tub, mixing hot water with the cold water in the tub five gallons at a time like usual since the faucet in the tub broke off and never was fixed. The repairman only came around to work when there was a full day of work; Mr. Phil said they just had to wait.

It’s your turn, girls, Granny said, picking up the big pot of hot water off the stove. Soon as I dump this water in the tub. She added it to the water that remained in the tub. Water around here was not wasted. More hot water would be added to it until everyone had bathed and then it would be drained out, leaving a gray ring around the tub.

Okay, Granny, the girls replied harmoniously, getting up from the table, following her. The boys sat at the table, watching Momma as she rinsed off the fish, rolling them in cornmeal mixed with flour, and then gently laying them in the frying pan.

Granny came back in with another pot of cold water to heat up, setting the pot on the stove, relighting the burner for the next batch of hot water. You need help with the coleslaw? Granny asked. I’ll finish it for you. The hush puppy batter is mixed, the fries are almost done. I’ll take them out in a minute.

Okay, Granny, Momma replied, taking the fried fish out of the skillet, laying in the last pieces.

Granny added mayonnaise, mixing up the coleslaw, then began placing spoonful of the hush puppy mix in the hot oil, creating small ball-shaped muffins. She began whistling a tune as she dipped the hush puppies out, placing them on a serving plate.

Ray, listen to Granny, Mikey said. Granny is whistling that tune again.

Ray said, It’s from when Granny and Grandpa spent all those years on the Long Branch River in that big old house on the riverfront until he passed away last year.

Oh boy, it must have been fun with the river right there.

Yeah, I’m sure it was, Ray replied. When Grandpa passed away, she had to sell the place. She couldn’t own it unless she remarried, then she moved in with us so Momma could go to work part-time at the canning place. I heard Granny and Momma talking about it all night when they were sitting on the porch.

Sure would be fun to fish the river, Mikey said, imagining fishing on the river.

Yep, sure would be, Ray replied, his eyes opening a little wider.

Let’s hurry up and dry off, smells like the fish is cooking, Jean said, getting out of the tub.

Okay, let’s go, Jodi replied excitedly, getting out right behind her.

The smell of fish and hush puppies frying hung in the air throughout the house. It was enough to stir up any appetite. Last but not the least, the sound of the fries cooking could be heard as the girls rounded the corner, heading for the kitchen table, eager to taste the fresh fish.

You’re it! Ray cried out as they sat down. Mikey and I were here first.

Oh no, Jodi, we’re it! What should we to do?

Let’s eat first, Jodi answered, licking her lips. The boys looked at each other, laughing, always ready to play any game.

Not at the table, Momma said sternly, taking the last piece of fish from the skillet. Maybe after dinner you can play awhile until it gets dark.

Okay, Momma, Ray replied.

Granny chuckled as she finished the coleslaw. That looks really good, she said, as she brought the bowl to the table thinking about the time she dropped a bowl of coleslaw. I just remembered that time I dropped that bowl of coleslaw. Hah! There was coleslaw everywhere, Clive had it all up one side of his pants. Good thing there was enough cabbage cut up to make some more.

Yep, that was funny, Momma replied, setting the plate of fish in the center of the table.

Well, it’s all ready, Granny said, setting the plate of fries next to the plate of fish, steam rising up. Let’s say grace then let’s dig in while it’s hot. Everyone stopped what they were doing while Granny said grace, always thankful every day for what the Lord gave them.

Lord, thank you for this day. Thank you for providing food, clothes, shelter, and a way to Machanna. And, Lord, help Clive come to his senses, amen.

Momma finished cleaning out the two cast iron skillets and then sat down in her usual chair next to Jeri. Granny took a small portion of fish, fries, coleslaw, and hush puppies after the children had taken what they wanted.

Boys, this fish is the best I’ve tasted yet, Granny said, taking a bite of the bream.

Thanks, Granny, Ray replied.

This bluegill is great too.

"Thanks, Granny, Mikey replied, taking another bite, not looking up.

Mmm . . . mm . . . mm, Jean joined in, it’s all really good and the fish is the best!

Yep, Jodi replied, dipping a french fry in ketchup, biting off the end.

The sunset was visible through the screen door, the rays reaching down to the tops of the pine trees as Mikey recalled Daddy walking out the door and down the driveway and then turning and saying, I’ll see you soon, son. He then imagined him walking up the driveway at the end of his shift, pulling the little red wagon with burlap feed sacks and the string from the tops of the sacks like he usually did. Hey, my little man, look what I’ve got for you today, he called out, walking up the steps, holding a big handful of string.

Jean, remember the string balls we’re making? Mikey said.

Yep, sure do, Jean replied.

Yep, Jodi joined in.

What do you want with a silly string ball anyway? Ray asked. You should have a bug collection like mine.

To see how big we can make the ball, of course! Jean replied then laughed.

Yep, Mikey joined in. To see how big we can make the ball! Mikey and Jean looked at each other, laughing at her reply.

Ray laughed heartily. Of course, I knew that, he replied.

I have a big bug inside mine, Jodi said.

Momma, can we go outside for a little while? Ray asked. We won’t get dirty, it’s our last night here.

You can go out for a bit until everything is cleaned up, Momma answered. If you get dirty, just wash off with a washcloth.

Okay, Momma, Ray replied, getting up from the table.

Let’s go, Jean said, following Ray.

Granny cleaned off the table, humming a tune, of course, washing dishes, drying them, and placing them in the dish drainer. Momma continued feeding Jeri, trying her best to eat a small piece of a hush puppy, most of it stuck to her face or lying on the floor. Well, looks like you’re done, sweetie, Momma said, taking Jeri out of her high chair then down the hall to the bathroom. Let’s get you washed up.

Granny began cleaning up the high chair and the floor, wiping down the table. Well, that’s it, all cleaned up. Now it’s time to sit in my rocker and relax a bit. I wonder what the kids are into, she asked herself, pushing open the screen door, sitting down in her favorite spot. Time for a little snuff.

Mikey was standing by the porch counting to ten as the others were finding a hiding place. Oh, Granny said softly, hide-’n’-go seek, one of my favorites.

Nine, ten, ready or not, here I come, he called out, turning around, beginning the hunt. Granny rocked back and forth then pointed ever so slightly, giving him a hint. He took off in the direction she pointed, eagerly running toward a stand of hibiscus near the car. I see you, Jean, he said, tagging her out.

Yeah, you got me, Jean replied, leaning against the car.

Momma came back into the kitchen holding Jeri, wondering where Granny went to. The kitchen is cleaned up, must be out front watching the kids, she said to herself softly. There you are, Momma, she said, opening the screen door. I thought you were out here with the kids.

Yep, here I am, Granny replied. It’s a lot cooler now, needed a break too.

Me too, Momma. It’s been a long day. The bath water is still warm when you get ready.

Okay, sweetie, Granny replied, getting up from the rocker. I’ll go ahead and wash up since you’re here, then I’ll clean out the tub.

All right, Momma, we’ll be in shortly. The mosquitoes are starting to bite, don’t want the kids getting dirty either.

All right, she replied, pulling open the screen door.

Momma, Jean called out, walking up to the steps, is Granny coming back out?

I don’t think so, she went in to wash up.

Oh okay, I just wanted to sit in her rocker a bit, Jean replied happily.

You sure can. Come on up, Momma said. We’ll be going in as soon as the game is over. Where’s everyone?

Mikey just went around back looking for everyone, Jean answered. Momma, . . . is Daddy really not coming back?

That’s what he told me. He said he’s had it and is not coming back. Mr. Phil told me the same thing. He overheard him talking to the other men at work earlier in the week. He asked Clive if it’s true what he heard, and he said, ‘Yes, I’m leaving on Friday morning and I’m not coming back.’

Mikey, Ray, and Jodi walked up as Momma was explaining what their daddy was up to. There was no business in town to tend to as the boys had wondered earlier while at the pond.

Momma, Mikey asked sadly, is Daddy never coming back?

That’s right, she answered. I feel for all of you, but I knew one day this was coming. You heard us arguing about him being at that bar in town again and him wasting money on those women.

We heard you and Daddy arguing, Ray said, but . . . never thought he would leave us.

That’s right, Momma, Jean said. We didn’t think about him ever leaving. You were working part-time, helping to buy things we need.

Let’s go through the house and make sure we have everything picked up, Granny said, pushing open the screen door, not realizing what they were talking about. We can use these burlap sacks Clive brought home. Fill them up.

Let’s go on in, Momma said. These bugs are eating me and Jeri up.

Yep, me too, Mikey joined in, following Momma.

The furniture will have to stay unless we had a big trailer, Momma said, stopping in the living room.

Well, we can’t afford to rent one of them hauling trailers, Granny replied, shaking her head.

Momma, Ray asked, what about the luggage rack on top of the car?

That’s for the rocking chairs, she said. Al is going to help load them tomorrow.

Can we take our cane poles? Ray asked excitedly. I’ll tie them to the luggage rack.

All right, Momma said, I think there is room. Maybe your uncle Andy can take both of you boys fishing once we get settled in.

Thanks, Momma, Ray replied happily. I knew you would let us take them. We were talking about it earlier.

Yep, thanks, Momma, Mikey said. Haven’t seen Uncle Andy in a while.

I’m sure he’ll love to take you boys to his favorite fishing hole, Momma replied confidently. He’s been fishing as far back as I can remember.

Boy, I can hardly wait to get there, Ray replied enthusiastically.

Yep, me too, Mikey replied with a big smile.

The boys took off around the table one lap then down the hall to their room to gather up everything that could be packed away, leaving out only what they need for the night and a change of clothes in the morning. Momma leaned against the countertop, imagining Clive walking up the driveway like usual, pulling the little red wagon with burlap sacks and string. She shook her head, talking to herself, If he does come back, he’ll have to find us. We certainly can’t wait here for him to show up. Lord, just help us through this, we really need you right now.

Granny, Jean called out, can you help Jodi and me with packing our clothes and toys and things we don’t need?

I sure can, she replied. I’ll be right there, just packing up a few things of my own.

Momma was in the kitchen packing up pots, pans, and dishes, leaving out only what they needed for breakfast. Jeri sat in her high chair eating saltine crackers, as Granny helped the girls pack up everything except for a change of clothes for in the morning.

Ray and Mikey headed back into the kitchen then to the living room, looking for anything left out that needs to be packed in the burlap sacks Granny gave them to fill. I think that’s it, Granny, Ray said, walking in the girls’ room. Only things left are some clothes for tomorrow.

Yep, that’s it, Mikey joined in with a big smile, stopping in the doorway beside Ray.

Good job, boys, she replied. How about you get your teeth brushed and get ready for bed? We’ve had a long day and need to get up early in the morning. The girls will be in right after you’re done.

Okay, Granny, Ray replied. Come on, Mikey.

Okay, let’s go, he replied eagerly. I’m tired and sleepy too.

Yep, me too, Mikey replied, following Ray.

The children lay in bed listening to Momma and Granny talking about what they can take, what will have to stay behind as they drifted off to sleep. Just don’t have room for any furniture, only the rocking chairs, Momma said sadly. Granny shook her head. We’ll just have to buy some secondhand furniture in Machanna once we get our own place.

Well, I’ll see you in the morning, Momma, just need to change Jeri.

Good night, sweetie. Good night, everyone, she replied.

Granny was up at first light, sitting on the front porch dipping her snuff, rocking back and forth, leaning over occasionally to spit in her little can.

Good morning, Momma, looks like a great day for a road trip.

It sure is, Audrey, Granny replied, brushing her long gray hair. I see Mr. Phil is up and moving around, and that fellow with him must be his cousin Al. Looks like they’re coming this way too.

Yep, that’s him, Momma replied.

Good morning, ladies, Mr. Phil said, stopping near the foot of the steps, Allen Stone to his right. I just wanted you to meet Al before it’s time to go.

Well, good morning, Mr. Al, Granny replied. Nice to meet you.

Good morning, ladies, Al replied with a nod.

Are you driving us to Machanna? Mikey asked excitedly, walking out on the porch, Ray right behind him.

No, son, Mr. Phil replied. My cousin Al here will be driving all of you to Machanna, how’s that?

Okay, I guess, Mikey answered hesitantly, looking up at Ray.

It’s okay, Mikey, Ray said reassuringly, looking over at Momma then Granny.

It’ll be fine, Momma said confidently.

Yep, that’s right, Granny said, spitting in her little can. "It’s just a short drive to Machanna, won’t take long,