Grey returned to the kitchen and looking about she asked, What may I do to help? Hank Davis shared a knowing look with his son. Randa while not blood kin had always been looked on as part of the family and yet she always acted as a guest and it never dawned on her to offer to help and her was this girl who was a guest but she was looking for something to do. Well young lady Hank said I have more peas to shell what do you say and give an old man some help. I would be glad to i enjoy shelling. Grey had a wistful look on her face as if she was some place else for the moment Chance wondered where her thoughts had taken her. Randa broke into both of there thoughts with the Statement. I do so dislike shelling it makes my hands sore and I do pride myself on my hands. Grey looked at the other girls hands noted the smooth pale skin the well cared for nails. With out hesistating she said. Yes your hands are lovely I suppose you sew make quilts and such. I do no such a thing I have no need of such. Aunt Clara would you like some help with the dishes. Randa rose and went to help dry the dishes. Chance noted that while Grey hands worked quickly they while just as clean as Randa's showed some signs of strength and work. He thought about how she had listened intently to his instructions to handling the Mare while driving her hands while new at the task had been sensitive to the mares mouth. After Shelling quite a bit Chance gathering up the hulls said to Grey let me show you where the compost pile is you may decide that you want to go fishin one day and the best worms are there. As they walked out Chance noted that Grey had changed clothes like his ma had and wore a simple dress while Randa remained in her Fancy Green dress. He showed her the compost pile and they collected Eggs from his mother's hens. He introduced her to the family dog Missy a fluffy dog who had a litter of pups she was tending. Grey held out a fist and let the mama smell her hand. She is a sweet dog. Looks like she is a good mama too. She is and her other litters had good dogs in them so we should be able to find familys that want a dog to help out on the farms . I noticed when pa asked you for help with the peas you got this look on your face like you were far from here ? A slight blush crept on Grey's cheeks I was thinking of my Aunt we used to sit and shell and have the best time . She Was an interesting woman from her letters I felt like i had made a friend. Oh she was so good to me I was young when my folks died and Aunt Lilly just took me in and raised me as one of her own. Your Uncle did he welcome you as well? Oh yes he did it is just Uncle ottis is well he was a good man He cared for me in his way but my Aunt was his world and he was never a open book and when she died he drew further away. I think Aunt Lil knew how he would react and she was trying to find me a suitable home. They Walked back in the house to find Randa had retired to Change yet again for supper but Clara answered her unasked question. I love the child have since she was a wee thing but this changing clothes so much just makes the laundry pile up if you ask me. I won't be a changing clothes. Grey how are you with a biscuit dough? I have a pretty alright hand with em can i help. Sure thing child come on help me get these beat out and in the oven. So While the two women worked together in the kitchen Chance and his father went out and tended to the stock and changed the puppies straw . As the two men worked together the older man said Well we should have a nice day for the picnic tommorrow I should say things are going be right busy around here. Well pa what do you think about Grey? I think i want to see if she can cook no really son I think you have to women here in this house that are as different as Chalk and Cheese. Like i said things are gonna be interestin round here . Has ma said anything yet. No not yet but you know it is like night follows day it is commin.

Chance had know he would not get to meet Grey Alone that would have been impossible as they watched as passengers disembarked he kept and eye out looking for a medium useful sort of woman. Randa too was on the look out as she stood next to Chance admiring his strong jaw. She walked over to the little grey mare and reached out a gloved hand to stroke her. The little mare stomped a foot and pinned her ears back and nipped at the blacked gloved hand. Randa jerked her hand back. My she is ill tempered isn't she. No not in the least she is gentle with gentle people. Grey stepped off the step and looking both ways she saw a group of folks a bit down the platform a striking looking woman in green standing next to a tall dark haired man and a older gentleman with grey hair . She walked up to Hank Davis and said Hello are you Mr. Chance Davis. Well you got part of it right young lady Hank said with a smile. I am Hank Davis this here is my wife Clara . Grey looked at the older woman she had a smile on her face with a twinkle in her eyes. You are looking for our son Clara said he is right here and clara gestured toward Chance. Randa stood quietly taking in Grey's small neat person she noticed the shadows under her eyes and the fact that the girl wore no make up at all. Randa noted the freshness of her skin and even though her dress was not eleborate it suited her down to the ground. Grey looked up to Chance and saw the dark brown eyes and her mouth quivered at her mistake, I am sorry Mr. Davis SR i see i was mistaken, Just then the conductor walked up Mam Here is your um Chickens, Grey turned to take the cage looking at each of the hens, forgetting herself for a moment she said Oh they are just fine I am so glad to see them! This was just too much for Randa She touched Chance's arm and sneered She has Chicken's for a dowry how quaint. Grey who had been with folks who were plain spoken promptly replied Oh no they were a gift from my Uncle are they not lovely. Chance stepped forward yes they are right Nice let me take them for you my rig is right here. So he turned away with the hens and Grey watched the tall broad shouldered cowboy as he placed her hens and her bag in the back of the wagon. Randa spoke again. My where is your luggage surely you have more. Grey looked at the other girl. No that is it I have plenty Grey stood a moment then turned her eyes on the Horse who was hitched to the small buggy. Oh you are a beauty aren't you ? The Gray mare snuffled and reached her nose out for a pat. She stroked the mares velvety nose . She is right friendly Chance stated with a smile toward Miranda. Well Chance said Miss Hollister may I help you up? Yes Thank you once she was settled on the wagon Ma Pa we will meet you at the house i am going show Miss Hollister around and take her Hens to my barn, Well Do not tarry son I am sure Miss Hollister could use a cup of tea or Coffee. I would love a cup of coffee mam that would be nice. With that Chance shook the reins and drove the buggy off. He showed her the main streets where the shops were the small libary the sherriff's office Then they went past a small church they rode slowly and in silence. Miss Hollister I know I asked if you would want to marry straight away but that was before my mother had Randa come out. Grey felt her stomach sink Of course he would prefer the other girl why did he not tell me straight away so i could get another train ticket. Well Chance broke into the tumbling thoughts If you would not mind I would like to know you better and all. Ma and Pa have plenty of room even with Randa staying for a bit, What do you say? Of Course Mr. Davis If you have changed your mind please just tell me now and i will be on my way. I just want to slow it down a bit. He stopped the buggy and took her hand. Trust me Miss Hollister you can you know. Alright Mr. Davis we shall do as you suggest Chance smiled at her the first real smile and it was as warm and being in the Sun. On thing we have got to get on to a first name basis every time you call me Mr. Davis I want to look for Pa. what do you think ? Grey nodded her head I think that is just fine , they drove to his place and it was as he stated in his letter a small neat house with a porch and a barn with a pasture and a corral and on one side of the barn was a chicken coop. Come on Grey lets get these Ladies in there new home. They freed the chickens from the cage and into the coop and the hens ran and scratched the ground shaking there feathers They look happy enough, What do you say Grey shall I take you to ma and pa I bet my ma is just itching to talk to you. Oh no really Grey said out loud . She is harmless she is a little on the nosy side but she means well, I have a suggestion Chance said taking her elbow i will bring you back tommorrow for a picnic and then you can look around the place. That sounds like a good plan Chance I would like that. Pulling the buggy up to Chances folks home Grey had been delighted when Chance allowed her to drive the mare they had jogged slowly the little mare was responsive and Grey had enjoyed the sense of freedom driving had given her. She Stepped down and went and patted the horse . You did just fine Grey you will be a hand in no time at all. He hitched the mare and Grey looked up at him. Should you put her away first ? Well i wasn't going send you in on your own. Well lets both go put her away and then go in. They walked in to his parent house and found Randa sitting at the kitchen table his father was sitting in his rocking chair his mother was Putting the kettle on, There you are son yall had a nice ride about? yea ma we did and Grey's chickens are nicely tucked into my coop. He pulled a chair out for Grey and then added more tea to Randa's cup before getting he and Grey a cup for coffee. He pushed the sugar and milk in Grey's direction. Now how did you know i took milk and cream in my coffee she asked him as she stirred her cup with a slight smile. A little bird told me. Oh Grey smiled even bigger a bird named Lilly no doubt, yes that would right. The coffee is right good mam , Now Child you just call me Clara and I am going to call you Grey i don't think we introduced you to my niece Miranda randa for short. Randa did not offer a hand but nodded her head in a regal way. So Grey Hank davis said smiling what did you think of Chance's place. Well I just saw the outside the barn and the chicken coop but it was peaceful. We are going back tommorrow for a picnic. Oh that will be nice clara intterupted I can do you up a hamper some chicken and sandwiches , Well i think you should have a chaparone so I would offer my services Randa all but purred when she said it. Grey may not have hqe much experience with courting but she Smiled and said well Miss Clara you and Mr, Hank should come to thus she defeated Randa at her own game. Randa had thought she could show herself to a better advantage next to the country mouse and now she would have to compete with his parents too. Clara was watching the emotions play over her nieces face, Well Grey would you like to go to your room and freshen up before supper? Why yes that would be fine. Once in the bedroom Grey sat at the looking glass mirror she splashed some water on her face dried her face, brushing her hair she thought about the man downstairs and about the beautiful Randa she wondered what had happened between them.

Clara Davis straighted her already straight spine. Well now Chance who is the lucky lady. One of the Miller girls no doubt. Not even close ma, I decided a local girl would not do, He said this with a firm look on his handsome face. Randa noted Chance had a steely quality that she did not remember. Do tell said his ma. May I know my new daughter in laws name or is it a secret. Certainly Her name is Grey Hollister. She will arrive tommorrow on the train so you will meet soon enough. Chance's pa said well now Clara if that don't beat all you been shaking every tree herebout's and this boy has already got him a bride. Better serve me a piece of that pie i am plum hungry now the older man said with a grin. He adored his wife but she was always getting herself into jams being nosy and such.

The two women sat in the parlor . Randa i just don't know what to say dear i am totally at a loss for words the older woman's face was flushed with embarassment. I never would have asked you to come if Ihad known about Miss Hollister. Aunt Clara. Randa used her pet name for Chance's ma I have no doubt of that . I am not so quick to give up either, Chance is stubborn and our fuss was a misunderstanding on his part. This Lady is on the way they aren't married yet. Furtermore I am glad to be back home so i won't be leaving so fast. Clara did not say anything merely smiled and nodded her head.


Chance sat on his front porch looking at the stars He said a silent prayer. Lord I asked for a wife that needed me and i am still asking but Lord please let her be able to have a few thoughts in her head. Seeing Randa today had brought back old memories and hurts the woman was still just beautiful. Why when he was beginning a new life with the mysterious Grey did Randa have to come home.

Grey was looking at the stars also since sleep came in fits and starts she too was praying. Lord help me I hope i have not made a mistake, What could have made me think it would be alright to come out here.

Early the next morning Clara was pouring her husband's coffee and she said. Hank you know i am gonna need the buggy Randa and i need to go into town, That so clara what would you be needin well we are low on coffee flour sugar those kinda things and just when would you be wanting to go to town? My guess it will be when the train gets in or a little bit after am i right about that honey?

Hank had hitched the team to the wagon he would drive his wife into town he was a little curious to see the lady that was going to marry his son. Clara had worn a dove grey dress that had blue trim, Randa however had not be so conservative in her choice of dress. True there was not a thing wrong with the dress. Emerald green with black trim sure to turn folks head. The girl was a breathtaking beauty with pale skin the green eyes, She had a confidence that she knew the effect of her beauty, She had been a pretty baby and little girl and she took her beauty as a fact and used it to her advantage.

Chance had hitched up the small buggy all shiny and black with the small grey mare. She was a gentle mare honest and true he remember reading Lilly's words. My neiece is a gentle girl she had an affinity with animals and while she has not learned to ride she will in time take to it unless i miss my guess. He had dressed himself with care. Blackpants and boots with a white shirt and black coat and hat. He wondered if he would recongize the girl. Remembering lilly's words she is a useful sort of girl. So she is not a raving beauty he said out loud to the horse. I had fill of beauty's a lot of trouble they are.


Grey had taken time with her change of clothes She had put on a pale yellow gown with blue trim. She decided to undo her single braid that had been good for travel so her hair had some curl . Her hat was small, she held Aunt lilly's hanky in her hand. She pinched her checks and bit her lip slightly for color and decided That is the best i can do aunt Lilly here we go!

As it was both sets of Davis's pulled up to the train station at the same time. They Gathered on the wooden platform. Chance Looked at Randa and said, What no luggage i just assumed you would be going back No need to stay, She smiled at him What and miss meeting the mystery lady not in this life!

Just make it a nodding acquantince will you Randa I don't want you or ma scaring her away.
Hank Davis smiled His son was reading the younger woman right so he had no worries about this woman. The woman on the Train was a different story Hank would have to wait and see just what his youngest son had got himself into.

As the Train carried her westward to her new life Grey wondered again about Chance Davis, What sort of man was he? She had read all the letter's he had written to her aunt but could not get a sense of the man. Had she been rash and made a mistake? What would she find upon her arrival? She smoothed her skirt down closed her eyes and tried to sleep she could hear a baby crying a few rows ahead of her. Babies Would this man want babies. He sounded like an older man so perhaps this would not be a worry. She had no idea if this man had family. Uncle Ottis had shared that Aunt Lily had said she had a good feeling about the man.

The man in question was working with a young horse. Slowly and carefully unlike some of his friends he believed in a firm but Gentle touch with young horses, Sometimes going slow and easy paid off. He released the colt into the corral just as the dinner bell was being rung.

His Ma had been cooking up a storm a sure sign that she had something on her mind. Fried Chicken mashed potatoes. biscuits and honey. green beans. Sitting with his folks at the table he took a couple bites then stopped. Okay Ma what is going on this looks like a meal fit for company? Well Son you know how your ma loves to cook, Just then they heard the Jingle of horse harness. I will just go see who is here, as his mother left the table Chance got that feeling in his belly. The same feeling when he would work with a horse that he thought was learning the ropes when you would be loping for miles and all the sudden the horse would start bucking, usually right before the first buck you would get a little signal to hold tight. That was just how he was afeeln right then. Looking at his pa he knew the feelin was right .

He heard her and sensed her before he ever laid eyes on her. The bright perfume the tinkling laugh, Miranda they all called her Randa the woman who played with him like a toy and discarded him for a newer fancier one. Good mannners and upbringing prevailed and he rose to his feet when she approched the table. She was almost as tall as him still just as beautiful with Dark hair Green eyes. Hello Chance darlin How are you? Papa Davis so good to see you again.
Randa you are amongst family have a seat and help yourself. As the woman was helping herself to a dainty bit of food. Chance wondered What have i done to deserve this. I guess you are right surprized to see me ? Chance Looked at her with raised eyebrows but said nothing. Son I had a letter from Randa and well I got to thinking that you did not seem at all interested in the young ladies i had been trying to introduce you too and then I heard from Randa well she sounded so home sick that i thought visit might perk her up . Chance studied the face he knew so well. She was more beautiful than ever. She did not look wilted or in need of a thing, Her dark hair gleemed and her green eyes danced.

Well you must make yourself at home Randa of course. It is good that you are here ma is going to need some company. What do you mean son his ma said with a smile. Well now ma you know i told you I would be moving to my house when i was ready, his ma laughed no son you said when you found the right woman you would be moving. That is just it I have found her and she is on her way, Randa almost fell off her chair though his ma remained composed if silent, That so son his pa had a smile on his face.

Morning light streamed through the windows and Grey rose quickly to begin the days chores still heavy hearted and unsure of what she would do. She cooked breakfast for her uncle he ate little and said nothing. Once he was gone to work in his store she cleaned the kitchen . Did a quick Inventory of the food in the house Sandwiches would do if her uncle came home for lunch. She collected the Laundry and bed linens and went outside to set up the washing pail. The Sun was shining and she soon became warm with the excertion of her efforts. Once the laundry was washed and rinsed she hung it on the bushes and fence to dry. Then she went to the barn, feeding the chickens and collecting eggs, She heard the jingle of horse harness and walked out of the barn. It Was Ada. Hello Grey have i interrupted your chores? I was just collecting the eggs we have more than enough would you like to to take some home? Well maybe a few but you know you can always sell the extra's in town. The two women headed to the house How bout some lemonaid Ada I am hot and thristy. Both of the women were pale with shadows beneath there eyes I guess neither of us got much sleep last night, Not much Grey agreed but it will get better Aunt Lilly would switch us both if we did not get on with it, well she wouldn't spank us but she would get that worried look and frown if we did not cheer up. It seems a tall order thought Grey. Ada straightened her spine I promised Pa i would clear ma's things out of the bedroom, He wants it all gone clothes books, nick nacks So I best get to it I have a trunk i can use anything you specially want? Grey thought for a moment. If know one wants it I would like a Hanky and maybe a small vase just some little rememberance.



Do you want me to help you Ada? No Grey It will be easier if i just do this but thank you Maybe some tea afterwords. Ada went into her mother and fathers room the bed had been striped but all her mother's things were on her bedside table. Her bible her books a small skein of wool waiting to be knitted, Tears welled in Ada's eyes " Oh ma I miss you so already" Once these few things were in the trunk then she quickly added the undergarments from the chesterdrawers then the Dresses in the wardrobe. She closed the trunk so few things for a life that was so well lived.

As Ada walked into the kitchen Grey poured the hot water over the tea waiting for it to steep. Her cousins weepy eyes told the story of how hard it was to rid the room of her mother few things that had made the room warm and cozy. Here Have some tea. They sat together for a bit sipping tea lost in their own thoughts of the woman who had loved and cared for them both. Ada I have decided to see if Mr Davis responds to Aunt Lilly's letter and if he ask me i am gonna go west to meet him. If not I will see if you Pa would let me work at the store and stay in the back room. Oh Grey are you sure really you could come stay with me and Bobby, No Ada I am sure I will miss you and Uncle Ottis but it is so hard being here now I can only hope that I will hear something soon .

Chance Davis had been having some sleepless nights himself, He was a hardworking man no doubt and he did not lack physical courage but one thing that could set his teeth on edge was his Mama she had it in her head that it was past time for her son to marry the other boys had and Chance needed to fall in line so she started talking to all her lady friends trotting out daughters, neices why there were giggly girls all over the place it seemed. This had at first been slightly funny but when he realized his ma wasn't joking he got plum ornery . Clara Davis was strong willed and stubborn and she fiqured in time her son would give in a pick a bride.

Chance had read all of Miss Lilly's letters the woman had been fairly regular in her correspondence to him the letters had stopped and he wondered had she lost the battle with her failing heart. What would happen to the girl named Grey. He wasn't sure why he cared . He had never seen her she wasn't his problem. Still that nagging feeling was with him. So he decided he would write the girl If she responded he would deal with his mama. He wasn't sure that she would even respond.


Dear Miss Hollister.
Your Aunt Lilly had been writing me hoping that at some time we might be introduced and joined in marriage. She had shared with me that her health was failing and that she felt her time on this earth was soon to be concluded Since it has been awhile since i have heard from her I can only believe that either she has passed away or that she had told you of her plans and you have rejected them . If you are interested in a New start I am prepared to offer you a home with me. Your Aunt said you are a hard worker useful and sturdy, Those are mighty good qualities to have out here.

I feel it is only fair that i tell you about myself. I have never been married, I have a small place with cattle, horses my home is small but neat it is not a fancy place. should you wish to join me i can send you a train ticket. My parents are both living and you would stay at there place until we met and married or we could stop at the preachers straight away. I look forward to hearing from you. I hope this letter finds your Aunt is better.
Chance Davis



Grey Hollister Read her letter again. Here was her answer she could accept this offer and go to a place far away from her cousin and uncle and the rest of her kin. She could stay and move into the back room at her uncle's store Staying at the house was almost unbareable, She continued to do her chores and her Aunts Chores but her Uncle was deep in his grief for his wife and while he would try to talk most evennings he sat outside lost in thoughts or in his barn. The next morning Ada came by on her way to town. Looking pale and a little green around the gills Grey was concerned for her cousin. I think everything is fine I am almost sure that it is. I will stop back by when i have got my shopping done . Are you needing anything? No can't think of a thing see you when you come back by. Grey had just finished churning the cream into butter. when she heard Ada's wagon pull up. Her Cousin still looked pale but no longer green around the gills as before, I can't stop Grey I have to get home I have to talk to bobby a blush crept on ada's cheeks we have plans to make. Grey could not help but think how excited her Aunt would have been another Grandchild to add to the brood. She smiled and Waved you head home and we will talk another day.

That night over supper Grey decided to ask her Uncle his advice it would be a hard conversation to get the man to talk but he was a good man with sound judgement. Uncle Ottis I have to make a decison and I just am not sure what i should do which way to go. How do you know you are making the right decison, I usually chew on it awhile, the older man grunted and usually aftersome thought i make my mind up and get to work.

Uncle Ottis what would you do for help out here if i moved away? You mean if you answered the letter from the Davis fella? I have thought about that and you know the Allen family ? Well since they have been having some hard times I have been giving them a little credit at the store and as it turns out. Ms Allen said Kitty and Callie could come out after Schcool and do the chores and such it would help me and them too.


Grey sat at her Aunt's desk and after a bit she began to write. Mr. Davis, I would be agreeable to join you and as to marriage I being a Good and useful sort of gal would just as soon go to preacher upon my arrival i seek a new situation for myself . I await your reply.

Chance was surprized at the brevity of Grey's letter but pleased that she would marry with out all the fuss and feathers and now he would be able to inform his ma that the parade of eligible ladies could stop. That in it's self was worth the train ticket.


Uncle Ottis had insisted that he send some of her Aunt's Chicken's with Grey on the train the crate was safely stowed in the baggage car. The older man's eyes were misting up and his voice was tight, Remember Grey you have Lilly's blood running through you veins you have her courage. You make sure and Bring Mr. Davis for a visit when you can. With a hard hug. The conductor called all aboard. Grey Hollister boarded the Train and Headed west to a Man she had never met with her few possesions and a clutch of her dead Aunt's laying hens.

No Ottic I didnot know that she made you promise but knowing Lilly I am not surprized she was a woman of great depth of understanding. Yep Doc that is true enough. So how long you gonna hide out in your Barn? Doc I raised my family with Lilly buried our parents had good times and bad. Do you honestly think those folks have a clue of what we shared, They loved her too Ottis as she was a good neighbor to so many of them. Tell you the truth Ottic Let's make an appearance check on Ada and Grey and then let's go fishing what do you say. Of Course that set the townsfolks tongues awaggin but as soon as Ottis saw a few of the throng gathered saw that his Daughter and neice we managing that was just what he and the old doc did they went fishing.

Hours later Ada and Grey sat at the kitchen table sipping hot coffee. Ada with a water smile said I bet you my best quilt ma asked Doc to take pa fishing she knew he would not be able to handle the crowd. Your Mama was always looking out for folks, she had a way of seeing a need and know just how to get it filled. Hard to believe that she is gone Ada's voice wobbled a bit as she spoke I knew she was sick but i just didn't think she would go so fast. Grey reached out and held Ada's hand giving it a gentle squeeze Her blue eyes saying more than her words could.

Ada swallowed hard . Grey what are your plans? You gonna stay here with Pa Run the store? You could if you got your heart set on it but Bobby and I we would love to have you live with us.
Ada raised her brows I know i am gonna have to move somewhere Ada I am just not sure where yet. While most folks though Ottis was a gruff if fair bussiness man, His wife and children knew the truth the big man was painfully shy as a result he did not let most folks know him well. He was interested in the goings on of his grown children and his young grandchildren but Grey would suffer for company with just ottis and now with a broken heart he would retreat further into himself for awhile.

Well you could stay with us for a bit and sort your plans out I could use the help at home, living as far out as we do I get plum lonesome. Ada you are too kind but you and Bobby are newlyweds and the last thing you need is a house guest. I wonder if your Pa and Doc have caught any fish ?

The two men sat fishing long silences between them at times They had caught one fish each but judging them too small had released the catch. Doc I would like your thoughts on something
. It is about Grey the doc smiled to himself He had know Grey most of her life had been friends with her folks. Well it is like this Lilly had this plan to find a fella for Grey she had been writin letters to this fella I am just not sure how she would take to the idea. Well ottis She is a funny thing She is a hard worker to be sure she just has a bit of reserve much like her ma. Yeah that is true She will gather the eggs milk the cows but she can't hardly bear to wring a chickens neck.
She is kindhearted but not the sort that would do for a nurse i suppose. Doc smiled again at that remembering when a boy a school broke his arm a nasty break how Grey had sent for help kept everybody calm only to be sick after it was all over an done with.

You know Ottis She might warm up to meeting the fella if she knew that Lilly thought it was best. I am surprized Lilly did not already have it arranged. You mean like she did today having you take me fishing cause she knew How crazy i would be listening to folks and trying to come up with words for them, As it turned out Lilly had written Letters one last one to Chance Davis and a first one to Grey,


Dear Mr Davis.

As i have told you my heart is failing and my time will soon be at hand. I am not sure that my letter's have fully shown my neice to her best advantage. She is a kindhearted intelligent girl . She has not form any deep attachements to any of the few young men here in our small town. Her father was my baby brother and when he and his wife died she came to live with us. I count her as one of my own, Unknown to her there is a small legacy that will be hers when she reaches 21 years of age, I share this with you so that if you should meet and not think that you could build a life with her she is not without resources, I wish for her what my own daughter Ada has found a loving kind husband and a home of her own. I know from your letters that you have a small place of your own and a home that could use a woman's touch . Your last letter when you learned of my illness your tone was kind please consider that kindness would not be wasted on Grey . I must inform her of our correspondence I pray that she will hear from you.

Ada turned to Grey and said with a tremble in her voice Well if you don't want to come and live with me and Bobby Maybe this will help you make your plans. She pulled a letter out of her pocket. I haven't opened it Mama told me to give it to you.

Grey opened the letter and began to read,

Dear Grey,

I have so many thoughts that i wish i could share them all with you and Ada i come toward the end of my life knowing that I have loved and been loved trusting in God's goodness. For sometime now i have known that i would be going home ahead of the rest of you. My dear friend Millie has always had a fondness for Ottis and i think in time they might find each other, I know that Ottis will be fine, I was so happy on Ada's Wedding day to see her joined with Bobby I know that their a challenges ahead but they will meet them together with God's help. It was my heart's wish that you would would find a partner and to this end I started writing a fella telling him about you, Now before you have a tizzy fit Grey remember that your Ma and Pa was joined as a mail order bride and while they were only together for a short while , They were happy. For What ever reason you have never been interested in the local young men not that there are many to chose from. MR, Davis is a Farmer he has Cattle and a small home he is a little older than you. Has never been married , From his letters i have learned that he can write and read and has a good if dry sense of humor. know that I have loved you from the time you came to be with us an that i wanted you to have a chance to have a home and family of your own, Have an open mind Grey If Chance Davis writes again it will be addressed to you. You are stronger than you know.


Grey Did not speak for a full five minutes finally Ada said I knew Ma was up to something but i never thought she was playing match maker again. I just am shocked Ada Whatever was she thinkingGrey's voice sqeaked with emotion. Well if i know one thing about my ma Ada smiled Pa is in on this and i bet he knows where this Chance Davis's letter are you could read them and Wait and see if he writes back.

The girls heard a wagon it was Ada's husband Bobby He had taken some of the neighbors home and had come back to fetch his wife.I gotta go Grey I am gonna get Bobby to stop by and check on pa and Doc at the pond. I will see you in the morning.

That night Grey tossed and turned in her bed she had managed to get uncle ottis to drink a little broth and when she brought up the letter that her aunt lilly had left her he had smiled so she took care of explaining it for me. She did not know what to do Her aunts illness and death had left a hole in her heart and now her mind was a in a whirl What should she do. Who was this Chance Davis. He must be much older What if he wrote what if he did not, She loved Ada but she knew that she did not belong in her cousins home with her new husband. Uncle Ottis would not insist on her moving but already the absence of her aunt was keenly felt by them both and conversation was strained and slow. What should i do Oh Lord help me to do the right things.

Chance Sat by the brook listening to the birds singing in the tree's he opened the packet of letters yet again.Reading the words there praying that what he was doing was not a mistake. It had started as a lark Looking for a mai order bride and then he started getting letters some funny some sad but the letters from Lilly had captured His attention Right away. My niece is a sensitive young woman with Character. Chance thought okay so she is plain and cries easy. She would make a good wife and in time a good mother for your children. She has lived with us since my brother and his wife died. doubtless you are wondering why i write for my neice she is not witless by any means , she is loyal to a fault . A loyal woman that would be different Chance thought to himself, The lettter went on to explain that Lilly feared that Grey would be wasted waiting on customers for her husband Running the household . Ms Lilly then proceeded to tell Chance that she had known for awhile that she had a bad heart and that it would soon fail . There are more women here then men so If my Ottis wants to remarry it won't be hard for him. He is a gruff person on the outside but inside he is kind. Should something happen I have advised him of my letters to you . Dear Grey knows nothing of them.

Grey thought Chance what kinda woman is called Grey? Folks milled about her Aunt's house and Grey and Ada were busy serving coffee , Cake and tea. Uncle Ottis was out in the barn . DR. Cooley had come in the old doctor had done all he could to help Lilly and just as others greived he did too the woman had the best outlook strong willed and positive to the end. I have come to pay respects to your pa Ada where is He? Aw Doc he is in the barn feeding ma's chickens It is alright Ada I will go out to him. Ottis doc called as he walked into the neat barn. The two men shook hands , Ottis i am sorry about LillyI know you are doc you did all you could do. Lill made me promise that I would forgive you for her death did you know that? No Ottic

The smells of the damp earth filled her nose wind blowing in the tree's She kept holding on to the lace hanky in her hands. Ashes to ashes dust to dust the pastor spoke the words over the grave . What ever would she do now? Her Aunt had been her greatest champion they had forged a bond that at times had annoyed her uncle and cousins. Her Uncle was deep in grief and her Cousin's all married with families of there own. Her uncle Ottis standing head bent shoulders shaking perhaps he would let her help him with the store. Grey was a middle sized person not the dainty sortbut not oversized either with dark brown hair and blue eyes a straight nose full and generous lips. Wiping her tears away she focused on the small gathering. Her Aunt had been well loved by the townsfolk and her uncle was respected if feared for he was a gruff man. Ada her oldest cousin touched her hand breaking into her thoughts " Come on she whispered it is time to go " With feet that felt like they were in cased in lead she moved away from the graveside.



They sat in the Wagon waiting on Uncle Ottis, he stood alone at his wife's grave lost in his own thoughts which would have surprized his family had they known what they were. " I was so luckey to have you as my wife lilly nobody ever understood me the way you did. The only time you have ever disappointed me is today I wanted to go first" Jamming his hat on his head he turned to go walking toward the wagon that held His oldest daughter and his niece.

Once upon a time

Things have been rolling on and I have learned more what i thought was a curse losing the office job not being able to cope with the nursing home the depression and the rebellion from Lucy . Has been a blessing I am now sure that God is opened a window for me that i never thought he would . I am in Pt 3 times a week and still seeing the wonderful Dr Christine. Lucy is working on making up her mind if she will get a job go back to shcool or move out. Wayne is the bright spot of the whole thing he is going to church reading the bible Just amazing how God is showing up in his life! I am going to do something that i have always wanted to do . Learn to quilt and i am going to start writing something that i thought i would have to wait to do. Well Now is the time!

Still struggle with weight but maybe i am making progress so Once upon a time!

So much going on!

So much is going on I have changed doctors and that was so hard but so neccessary and i have completed a fast that was good brought me closer to the lord, I am waiting to see what is around the corner, still having some issues with my boundaries and not snapping at folks but that will come, following the fast i am going back to the WW program and have started back on PT and taking a quilting class soon, One of my projects is to declutter and make the house nicer, Working on my relationship with Wayne and it is getting better, More later much to do!