More Pictures!

SF's pictures from Sunday have been uploaded to the capturing skeet gallery. You can see them all here «

I have also added three from Skeet's appearance on Friday at the convention. You can see those here «

Whomever put that sign in front of 'the gorgeous' should be whipped! Keep checking back for more additions. :)

Comic Con 2007

What a weekend!

I've been to the Wondercon in SF earlier this year but San Diego was something else! The Jericho panel was amazing, the jam-packed hall was incredible. It was an awesome experience.

As usual, I knew the best spot would be front and center and to get the spot was to get there early and grab a seat when it becomes empty -- anything for Skeet huh?!

So I heard that ScriptGirl was there too! Where were you seated?!

One hour was not enough and there was so much to talk about the time flew by so quickly and next thing you know it was over! In March, they had the time to show almost a half hour clip, this time they had more time to answer fan questions.

Each cast member was wearing a promotional tshirt that was made especially for the ComicCon Event (see the pictures below). It has the Chayenne flag on it. If you are interested in getting one here's the link http://www.wetcementclothing.com/.

Skeet was welcomed with a lot a big SCREAM by his fans. Wearing a hat and Jericho t-shirt and his sunglasses hanging on his shirt collar. Unlike the day before, you can tell his hair was not made up but he was still oozing so much charm, you try not to swoon and make an embarrassment of yourself from the crowd.

One significant thing -- they showed their sincere gratitude to the fans who helped them come back. The Jericho blog is updated for the fans because they say we are now part of the production and the show itself , wow, we are practically insiders.

Lenny was very funny and I can't get over that great accent! Emily has flawless skin and was a happy camper sitting next to Skeet.

Here are some highlights:

• An Australian girl requested if they can do something about the horrible time schedule of Jericho in Australia.
• A real CBS phone operator who shared her experience handling the numerous calls CBS received. She was amazed at how majority of the callers were actually civilized leaving their sentiments about the cancellation. Karim mentioned that CBS actually was touched by how organized and determined the fans were and that they were truly thankful at the spirit at which the mission was accomplished (in three short weeks!)
• They showed a Thank You clip that they put together especially the fans.
• Also a clip showing a preview of the DVD extras - yeah! Skeet behind the scenes -sweet!
• Extras also include how they planned and built the Jericho set.
• The cast talking about the loss of Gerald MacRaney's character.
• A fan asked Skeet why he's been doing mostly good roles as opposed to a villain such as his Scream character (which we can't deny he is very good at portraying). Skeet did admit he loves playing the bad guy and enjoys playing it. Oh and this fan got to ask for his name card and received a hand shake from Skeet -- lucky gal!
• A fan voiced his concerns about cancellations and unfinished story lines. Carol assured the fans that they will find a way to get the answers and endings if such an event happens but assured us that they do not anticipate this from happening and that they plan on staying for a long time.
• The panel shared their experience about how they found out about the cancellation-- what were they doing and where they were at the moment. Also if they had begun the dismantling of the set upon hearing the news. We were told that it had begun but they immediately put a stop to it as soon as they heard the news. Good thing, success happened before it was too far along.
• Skeet was asked about how he prepares for a scene that calls for heavy drama and emotions.
• What was the hardest scene they had to do-- Skeet: I think he admitted the father and son scene, Lenny: the time his son asked him if he was staying or not (toothpaste scene).
• Cast signing of Jericho poster downstairs amidst security and the world wide public. Only limited number of tickets were given.

The next one will be in San Francisco in February -- you all better start planning!

Welcome wagon

Two new members who are joining in the fun!

Ann

Jennie >3

Glad you found us. Welcome and feel at home here!

Thank you very much!

Comic Con - San Diego

Jericho says Thanks to all their supporters.

"Thank you to you all" - Skeet

more to come....

Hot Chocolate...

Need we say anything more than "enjoy"?

*Thanks to Jan1425 for bringing these to our attention via: Google Alerts

**credit: first kiss productions photography by trevor stolebarger http://firstkissproductions.wordpress.com/2007/07/29/comic-con-part-2-save-the-cheerleader-save-the-world/

Caption this picture

"Talk to this beautiful hand"

"I am camera shy"

Caption the picture ... your turn

Thanks to lgl for the link!

More pics

Love this picture...

more pics here: Jericho final episode shoot

Check out Jericho blog updates here: The Salty Scoop

What a tease

I am posting lgl's link on the comment about Skeet's new pic here.

What a tease -- I am sure he knows we swoon over those hands and those sultry eyes!

Friday Eye Candy

Thanks P&P5

Source: Pittsburg Post-Gazette.

Just This Side of Tomorrow - Part Nine - By SG

Ray’s jaw rests in his hand as he leans on his elbow, watching Livy sleep. Sounds of Danny moving about in the kitchen below cause her to stir, but only slightly. Pursing his lips, he cranes his neck forward and blows lightly in her ear.

Livy twitches her nose. Ray laughs, falling onto his back again. Her arm comes up, lifting his and propping it under her head.

“Sorry. Once I’m awake I can’t fall back to sleep. You know that.”

Livy pretends to be annoyed.

“The whole point was that he learns the early morning chores and you get a lie in on the weekend, remember?”

“I said I couldn’t sleep. I didn’t say I was getting out of bed.”

Ray leans in, kissing her softly on the mouth. He pulls her even closer to him. Running his hand from her face to her shoulder and down, he lets it rest in the small of her back. Pulling her towards him, he lets out a long, satisfied sigh. His lips cover her mouth in warm kisses.

Leaning back again, he smoothes the hair from her forehead.

“What?”

Ray keeps smiling at her.

“What is it?”

“Happy Anniversary, Livy.”

*****

Livy picks up Danny’s rucksack from the back of the chair where it’s hanging and places it on the hook. The front flap is slightly open and a white envelope peeks out. She pulls on it, seeing the words Mrs. Singleton written across the front in perfect penmanship.

Danny runs in the house, letting the screen door slam behind him.

“Dad says can we have something to drink?”

“Of course.” Danny opens the icebox and pulls out two bottles of cola. Tipping them one at a time he uses the bottle cap remover on the side of the counter to open them. Turning, he rushes for the door.

“Danny, I was putting your bag away and I saw this letter.”

“Sorry Mama, I forgot. It’s from Miss Borden.”

Livy nods and he scurries out to the back to work by Ray’s side some more.

Opening the drawer, Livy removes a butter knife and slices open the envelope. It’s only one page, very short. It’s dated Tuesday. Today is Saturday. Livy scoffs, saying her son’s name under her breath.

Dear Mrs. Singleton,

I would like to thank you very much for your kind invitation to Sunday lunch. As Daniel may have mentioned, I’m new to the area (in a manner of speaking). As such, I do find myself somewhat idle on weekends.

There is, however, a matter of some delicacy, which I would like to discuss with you before I sit at your table with friends and family.

Daniel mentioned that you’re often home on Saturday afternoons. Would if be convenient if I stop by for a few minutes, say around two o’clock? If that is not a good time for you, please telephone me at Cannestoga 219. That’s the Fielding Apartments, and I’m in room eleven.

Looking forward to seeing you.

Miss May Borden


Livy glances at the clock on the wall. It reads one forty eight.

“Blast!” Livy gets up and fills the kettle with water. Putting it on the stove, she reaches up for her teapot off the top shelf of the cupboard. Her fingertips strain but she just can’t reach.

She slides a wooden chair from by the table and starts to climb up. The door opens and Ray enters. As he turns to her his face looks frustrated.

“What are you doing? You can’t be climbing - I told you to call me if –

She steps back. Ray moves the chair out of his way.

“I know. Sorry. Miss Borden’s going to be here any minute. I was just trying to get something ready.”

He hands her down the teapot. She points at the tin of Swee-Touch-Nee tea. He gets that too.

“Miss Borden, why?”

“You tell me.” Livy hands him the note. Looking at her reflection in the window, she smoothes her hair.

Ray reads the note in silence, raising his eyebrows as he hands it back to her.

“Sounds serious.”

Livy nods.

“Something with Danny?”

“Surely not. He would have said.”

Ray opens the back door and hollers.

“Son, get in here.” Danny comes running through the door that Ray is still holding open.

“Miss Borden’s coming over to speak with your mother. Is there something we need to know?”

Danny’s eyes grow large. “No, Sir.”

“You sure?”

“Yes, Sir.”

Ray squeezes Danny’s shoulder and gives him a reassuring nod. Danny runs back outside.

“We’ll give you some space.” Ray goes to leave also.

“Ray?”

He turns, facing her.

“You don’t think it's a question of loyalty, do you?”

“How’s that?”

“Well, I’ve been working with Mack for three weeks now. And they certainly didn’t get on well. You don’t think she’d be upset by that do you?”

Ray walks over to Livy, taking her hands and pulling them around his waist. Then he wraps his arms around her.

“Well if she is, she’s a fool. You’re making progress with that boy. Don’t let her tell you any different.”

Livy smiles up at him.

“You think you can have her out of here by five?”

“Good Lord, I should think so. Why?”

“Danny’s going to Jeremy’s. It’s all arranged.”

“What’s all arranged?”

“I got us a table for two at The Landing. Six thirty.”

Livy looks amazed. Ray laughs at her expression.

Just then a bicycle bell dings out front. Ray kisses quickly and exits out the back door.

Livy steps out onto the front porch, her hand shading her face from the sun. A young girl with black hair pushes her kickstand down with her foot. Her smart, red pedal pushers look crisp and new. Livy smoothes the front of her dress, taking off her apron and balling it up in her hand.

As May Borden comes closer Livy is surprised to notice that she is obviously of Asian descent. Her black, almond shaped eyes are beautifully set off by her white and red polka dot blouse.

May walks up the steps, her hand outstretched. As Livy shakes her hand, she feels an instant connection to this smiley, young girl.

“I’m so pleased to meet you, Miss Borden. Danny has such wonderful things to say about you and your classes.”

“Please, call me May.”

“And I’m Livy.”

May nods, smiling.

“I had no idea you were coming by bicycle! It’s such an awfully long way. Would you like to use the bathroom?”

“Oh, yes, please. That would be lovely.”

Livy opens the door for her and points up the stairs.

“It’s the door opposite the banister.”

May nods, padding upstairs in her jaunty shoes. Livy hears the kettle whistling in the kitchen. She jogs in, pouring the water in the tea and opening a tin of cookies she’d just made the day before. Arranging them on a plate, she puts them on the table. Rinsing her hands in the sink, she looks out the window. Ray spots her from outside and gives her a small wave.

Just then a honk comes from out front. They glance at each other. Ray shrugs and runs around the side of the house. She waits. A moment later Ray enters the front door. His face wears a strained look.

“Wha-?”

Suddenly the sound of a second pair of boots behind him silences Livy. She glances over and sees Mack in tow. Ray laughs awkwardly.

“Look who’s here. I completely forgot I told Mack he could come over and help us with the engine on the motorbike.”

Mack’s face brims with excitement.

“Yes Ma’am! It’s not every day a person gets their hands on a 1918 Cleveland.”

Livy smiles brightly as the sound of shoes crossing the floor upstairs echoes into the room.

“That’s just wonderful. You’d better get started, then.”

Ray hides a smile, watching her panic. She frowns at him behind Mack’s back as she ushers them out the door.

May comes down the hall and enters the kitchen.

“Oh, let’s sit in the parlour, shall we?” Livy picks up the teapot and cookies, placing them on the tray with the cups and saucers. They go into the living room. Livy sits on the chesterfield, while May chooses the powder blue davenport Ray bought them for Christmas last year.

It’s awkward for a moment. Both women take a sip of tea in silence, smiling at each other.

“I’m sure you’re wondering what I was referring to in my letter.”

“I must admit, you did have me somewhat concerned. He tries hard but he’s so enthusiastic, sometimes he goes over -”

“Oh, Mrs. Singl - Livy – I do apologize. Daniel is a bright, wonderful boy. He’s one of my best students. This has absolutely nothing to do with him, you can be sure. It was unfair to keep you guessing like that.”

Livy holds back a small sigh of relief.

May takes another sip of her tea. Clearing her throat she continues.

“The thing is, I know you.”

“You do?”

“Well, I know of you. And you know me. Well, we’ve met. ”

Livy shrugs slightly, putting a hand up to her cheek.

“I’m so sorry, I can’t recall -”

“Oh, no, please – I was only ten years old. I expect I look very different from the last time you saw me.”

Livy stays silent, hoping she’ll continue.

“I – I – Livy, I’m Rose and Flory Umahara’s cousin. We met at Camp Amache. We were making origami flowers for the Spring Dance. I sat on your lap. You let me feel your baby kicking and you told me I had beautiful eyes. ”

Livy feels her pulse rush slightly at the mention of her old friends. She had thought of them often, but hadn’t heard their names uttered aloud in years.

“Oh, oh my goodness. Yes, of course. Well how are they? Where are they?”

The second question was uttered quickly and Livy regretted it instantly, seeing the discomfort it caused May.

“You were so good to them. When the war ended and the exclusion order was rescinded, so many things happened at once. My family was divided. Rose and Flory lost touch with you and after a point it seemed too late, too awkward, to try again.”

“Well, that’s nonsense. I would love to - ”

“They felt ashamed. They still do. They don’t even know I’m here.”

“But it’s completely understandable. Your lives were turned upside down in a matter of days, I’m sure.”

May breathed a sigh of relief, nodding slightly.

“The government offered each family $25 and a train ticket back to where we came from.”

“Land sakes.” Livy looks at her, stunned.

“Many of the elders were of the “Shikata ga nai” mindset.”

“I’m sorry?”

“That which cannot be helped.”

Livy nods her head solemnly.

“At Camp Amache many were aware of Flory’s plot to hide her boyfriend. It was a difficult place to keep a secret.”

“I can imagine. But it seemed like it was all solved.”

“It’s the Japanese way. We are proud people. We deal with our problems in private.”

“Yes, I understand. So, what happened?”

“When the orders to evacuate came in, we were given half a day to decide where to go. My Uncle took his family back to California. But my father decided he could not accept the paltry offering they were doling out. He returned to Japan; alone.”

“But what of your mother?”

“My mother was shamed. She took the tickets and we returned to California. We had nowhere to go and no way to earn a living as my mother had to look after my sister and I. Rose and Flory’s father was my father’s brother. So, they took us in.”

Livy takes another sip of her tea.

“This is all so, so shocking. And yet the story seems to have ended well; I mean, here you are.”

“Yes. My mother remarried after a few years. A white man from the south. When you knew me, my last name was Kasagawa.”

Livy nods, holding out the plate of cookies.

May takes one, more relaxed now.

“How are your cousins? Are they well?”

May nods, swallowing her bite.

“Rose is married, a japanese american man; a member of the 442nd Regiment. They have four children.”

“Aww, how nice. She was always so patient and kind. I bet she’s a terrific mother.”

“She is. Her children are perfect.”

Livy chuckles. “And Flory?”

“Flory has had her ups and downs. She was engaged to be married to an Italian-American man for about four years. They broke it off. Six months later she married the man who delivers their milk. A white man. His family came from Poland, I think. She’s expecting their first child. She’s hoping it’s a boy – she wants to name him Clarke Gable. Clarke Gable Wozniak.”

Both women look at each other expectantly. May finally explodes into giggles. Livy follows suit.

“She certainly hasn’t changed a bit..”

“That’s my cousin.”

May and Livy carry on lighthearted conversation for some time. Livy’s face grows serious again; she unconciously leans in before saying what she wants to say.

“May, I would really like to write to them. Would you feel comfortable giving me their addresses?’

May giggles.

“Oh, I hoped you would say that. In fact I’m going home for Thanksgiving – why don’t I hand deliver your note? It would be such a marvelous surprise!”

“Even better.” Livy’s face beams.

The sound of an engine revving out back, followed by cheering, breaks the moment. May rises out of her chair as though she’s going to go see what it is.

Livy stays seated.

“Uh, oh that’s just my husband, puttering with an old motorcycle he bought.”

May stays standing.

“Would it be allright if I used the telephone? I made plans to meet a friend and I’m afraid I was having such a lovely chat with you that I stayed much longer than I anticipated. I’d like to let her know I might be late.”

“Of course, it’s just there on the wall. But my husband will be happy to run you back to town.”

“Oh, no, I couldn’t ask him to do that. I’ll be fine.”

Just then more hollering comes from the back as the engine revs again. Livy, seeing May on the telephone, walks hastily to the back door. Ray looks over at her, elated at first but then realizing when he sees the look on her face.

He takes a step forward but is forced to stop in his tracks as Mack comes bombing around the corner on the Cleveland, Danny gripping him tightly about the middle.

“Who-hoo Mama , look at meeeeeee!”

They tear around to the front of the house.

“Well, what was the big secret? Is Danny in trouble?”

“No, nothing like that. May wanted to tell me that she’s actually Rose and Flory’s cousin! Can you believe it?”

“So, you’re not I trouble either?”

“Me? Why would I be in trouble?

Just then a truck starts up on the other side of the propoerty. Livy smacks her hands together and runs around to the front of the house.

“Why are we running?” Ray jogs after her.

“May’s still inside! If I can keep her on the phone until he leaves we can avoid the whole - ”

As they turn the corner, they see Danny propping the Cleveland up against the stoop as Mack lifts May’s bicycle into the back of his truck. He walks to the side and opens the door for her. She jumps in and rolls down the window. Livy and Ray approach the vehicle.

“Thank you so much for the wonderful chat Livy. I’ll see you tomorrow!”

Ray flops an arm over Livy shoulders as she waves at them. Mack toots the horn at the bottom of the drive.

They stand in silence. Ray’s face looks fit to crack, he’s holding back a smile with such difficulty.

“Allright, I overreacted. Just say it. I know you want to say it.”

Ray laughs now, shaking his head. He wraps his arm around her neck and pulls her face close to his chest, kissing the top of her head.

“Woman, I’ve got nothing to say to you except this: Never a dull moment. In all these years we’ve been together, there’s never been a dull moment.”

*****

Livy stands in front of the mirror, primping her hair. She opens the vanity and looks at her two bottles of perfume. Trying to chose between Radio Girl and Youth Dew was sometimes a tough call but not tonight. It would be Radio Girl, the fragrance Ray had bought her their first Christmas. She had balked inside at the name, wondering if it would be more suited to someone Ruth’s age. But she has been surprised when she sniffed it. The scent was fresh and floral. It smells just like you, Ray had said.

Livy dabs some behind each ear and on her wrists. Closing the vanity she gives her hair one last look. After staring at herself for a moment, she re-opens the vanity and applies another dab to her decolettage.

Ray enters the bathroom, wrapping his arms around her thickening waist. Resting his chin on her shoulder they gaze at themselves staring back in the mirror.

“You smell so good.”

Ray starts kissing her neck. Livy reaches up behind, running her fingers through his hair.

The clock behind them dings on the hour. Ray groans.

“The table. We’ve got to go.”

Livy laughs shaking her head. She helps Ray staighten his hair.

“So, the Landing.”

“Yup.”

“Pretty fancy.”

“Yup.”

“Am I dressed well enough?”

Ray looks her up and down, taking a bit too long.

“Ray!”

“I’m kidding! Of course you are. You’re going to be the most beautiful woman there.”

She laughs, shaking her head.

“How do you know?”

“Because, you’re the most beautiful woman wherever we go.”

****

Ray drives along, a faint smile resting comfortably across his face. Livy watches the fireflies in the fields as dusk washes over.

“Oh, I forgot, there was a letter for you today. I think I put it in the glovebox.”

Livy opens the box and takes out a small white envelope. Slashing the envelope with her index finger, she opens the single page and begins to read aloud.

Dear Olivia,

It is with much joy that I open my letter box today and find a response from you. How wonderful! To begin anew! You have filled your old fool of a father with such happiness, I almost cannot bear it. I’m dedicating a section of my sermon on Sunday to this very thing.

Please pardon my abruptness, but in the spirit of new beginnings I would like to propose that my next leave be spent with a trip out your way. Of course, I will stay at the local hotel so as to not be of any burden to you. I am considering asking for my relacement for the last week of November. This would of course put us together on the weekend of Thanksgiving.

If this is agreeable to you, please advise me so that I can have Mrs. Standish make my travel and hotel arrangements. Also, would you please advise Willard Case of my intentions. We are long overdue for a game of rummy and a chat.

I am elated, daughter, at the thought of escaping this fetid air and meeting the people with whom you share your life in such pastoral and peaceful surroundings. I’ve grown tired of city life. And I’m too old to be alone.

In anticipation,

Father.

Olivia folds the paper gingerly and places it back in the envelope. She opens the glove box and puts it inside, snapping the lid shut.

“So, the Bunk room then? Do you think he’d be comfortable there? Or would Martha’s room be better. I mean, the bed’s bigger of course.” Ray wait for an answer.

Livy laughs loudly now, her face full of joy.

*****

“Good evening, Sir.”

“Good evening. Uh, we have a reservation. Mr. and Mrs. Singelton.”

Ray tugs on his tie, feeling out of his element. Livy rubs his arm, reassuring him.

“Right this way, please.”

As the Maitre D’ leads the way to their table, he reaches to pull a chair out for Livy. Ray grabs another chair at the same time, looking at her. Livy utters a quiet thank to the man and sits in the chair Ray held out. The Maitre D' nods his head and takes his leave.

Ray picks up his menu. Livy opens hers, carefully reading each item.

“Wow, look at this - walleye, bass, trout, they really have it all.”

“The man said they bring it in fresh from Twin Lakes twice a week.”

“You asked them that? If it was fresh?”

“Didn’t want to bring you all this way for nothing.”

****

Ray picks his napkin off his lap, wiping his mouth. Livy puts down her fork.

“That was absolutely delicious. Thank you for bringing me here.”

Ray lowers his eyes, in a way that means he’s pleased with himself.

Placing the bills inside the small folder the waiter has left, Ray helps Livy with her chair. They both utter their thanks to the Maitre D’ who bows graciously as they leave out the main doors.

They both stop just outside and breath in the fresh air.

Ray takes Livy’s hand as they walk towards the car. Spinning her around, he presses her against the red door and puts one hand behind her head, pulling her mouth to him. His long, deep kiss causes her to feel whoozy. Her knees buckle. Ray holds her steady, laughing.

“It’s not proper, anyway. Out here in public.”

“Ray, take me home.”

He opens her door and helps her in. Closing it behind her he jogs around to the other side. They roar out of the parking area.

****

As the family car pulls into Wilson, the air is palpable. Ray slows down. They round the corner by the church. A police car, ambulance and many local cars are parked haphazardly about the street.

Ray slows down as a police officer waves them through. He rolls down his window.

‘What’s happening, Don?” The officer shakes his head.

“It’s a terrible thing. Reverand Case. He was walking back to the church and collapsed right in the middle of the street - heart attack."

Livy reaches onto Ray's lap, squeezing his hand.

"Sorry folks, I’m afraid he’s dead.”

*****

The Missing Part Seven

Thanks to all those who've written asking me about Part Seven. I *did* have a literary brain fart and skipped it altogether. Sorry about that people.

My next posting (tonight, I think) will be entitled Part Nine just to avoid further confusion.

Thanks!

ScriptGirl

The "doozy" storyline I mentioned is still swimming around inside my brain, trying to iron itself out. So this one's a bit of a "filler" until then. Thanks. SG

Just This Side of Tomorrow – Part 8

Livy wipes the flour from her hands, letting small dry crumbs of pastry dough fall into the sink. It’s taken her years but she’s finally feeling worthy enough to bake a pie. It wasn’t long ago she was still burning eggs and turning potatoes to mush.

She laughs, shaking her head. She had been such an academic when she’d first arrived - thought it was all as simple as reading a book. Now she understands. And the look on Ray’s face over the years has gone from relief to pride as her skills have improved.

She brushes egg whites over her basket weave crust and sprinkles salt and pepper on top.

“What time’s supper? I really need a bath before we eat.” Ray calls out from the front door.

Livy walks into the hall.

“Oh my.”

Ray’s soaked from head to toe. His face is so grimy, two holes peek through where he’s rubbed his eyes. His hands are raised as though he’s being held at gunpoint.

She laughs, covering her mouth with her hand.

“I haven’t seen this much autumn rain since, well since before you came anyway.”

Livy takes off his hat and hangs it on the hook for drying.

“The pie’ll be an hour.”

He raises his eyebrows.

“Chicken.”

Livy walks up to him, turning his shoulders with her hands and marching him towards the stairs.

He smiles at her.

“Sounds good. “

******

Danny takes a drink of his milk, wiping his face with his napkin.

“ – then when Miss Borden told him to sit again, he just stood there and told her to SHUT IT. That’s what he said Mama. He said SHUT IT. Just like that.”

Ray takes a bite of potato as Livy listens intently.

“That’s shocking. What did Miss Borden do?”

Danny swallows and takes a deep breath before continuing.

“That’s the worst part. She cried. Here we are shaking in our boots since school started – and she just goes and cries.”

Ray looks up at Danny, concerned now.

“How old is this boy?”

Danny slams his hands on his thighs.

“That’s the thing! He’s one year older than her - and a foot taller. What do you think of that?”

Livy looks at Ray, concerned.

“Danny, is Miss Borden married?”

“Nope. She lives alone in an apartment in Wilson.”

“How did she come to work here?”

Danny goes back to his food, shrugging.

“I guess she lived her for awhile when she was a kid is all.”

“Do you remember a family called Borden?” Livy glances at Ray.

“Can’t say for sure. Don’t think so.”

“Danny, I’m going to write a note to Miss Borden and invite her for Sunday lunch next week. She must be terribly lonely. I – yes, it’s the right thing to do.”

Ray stands, pushing back his chair.

“Speaking of a note, that reminds me. You had a letter today.”

Ray goes to the hook on the wall and digs around his inside jacket pockets.

“You were in town? Did you pick up the cotton batten?”

“I did. It’s on the front seat.”

Livy smiles, pleased and excited. She’s making her first quilt ever, for the baby.

Finding the envelope he hands it to her. A slight frown flickers across her brow.

“Doesn’t look like Abby. What address is that?” Ray wonders.

“It’s from my father.”

Danny comes running into the hall.

“Can I go meet Jeremy for an hour before homework?”

Ray nods his head. Danny runs out the door.

Livy walks over to the chesterfield. Ray sits beside her. She hands him the envelope.

“Would you read it to me?”

Ray tears it open gently, removing the folded paper. Another small but thicker envelope falls out. He picks it up, resting it on his lap for the moment. Clearing his throat, he begins as Livy stares at him, hanging on every word.

Dear Olivia,

Four months ago, your sister made me aware of your condition. Since that time I have been struggling with what to do. I understand that you’re living a wonderful and joyous life. I’ve hesitated to contact you and perhaps spoil things in an effort to selfishly carve out my own place in it. I cannot believe how the years have gone by. I’ve continued to pray for guidance.

My sermon last Sunday began with one of your mother’s favorites, from Proverbs:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him
and he will direct your path.

Though I have delivered these words to parishioners more times than I can count, their sentiments echoed through my mind for days afterwards.

Then, an exhaustive search for an old address lead me to some boxes in the attic and I came across a letter your mother was working on but never finished. The letter was meant for you. Your mother fussed over it for more than a week. It was right before you came to stay.

I have to confess to you, daughter, it was difficult not to read these pages. My heart aches for your mother every hour of every day. I only wish I had spoken as many words to her in life as she does to me in death. She is always with me.

Still, they were meant for your eyes and so I have put them in an envelope and sealed it shut to avoid the temptation. What you do with it now is up to you. I hope that it brings you some comfort.

It is my sincere hope that you and your family are happy and well.

Best,
Your Father


Ray folds the page delicately and puts it back in the envelope. Looking at Livy, he hands her the second envelope. As she blinks hard, tears pour down her cheeks.

Taking it in her hands, she sees her father’s handwriting across the front.

“For Olivia, from your Mother.”

Livy hands the letter back to Ray.

“I can’t. Not yet.”

He stands and puts it up high on the mantel, a place of importance next to a portrait of his parents.

“It’ll keep, till your ready. We’ll leave it right here.”

Livy nods, blinking back tears as she laughs. Ray looks puzzled.

“My father – he wants to know me again.”

She dabs at her eyes as Ray wraps her up in his arms.

*****

Ray swerves the beet box up the path to Martha’s house. Martha opens the screen door and steps out onto the porch.

“You left that beautiful shiny red thing at home and came in the farm truck?”

Livy chuckles. “I still love it. So many good memories.”

Ray looks down at his boots, a secret smile fading as quickly as it appeared.

Livy jogs up the stairs as Ray heads around back to join the men.

Stewie looks up from chopping kindling.

“Well, well. Racer Ray. How’s tricks?’

Ray shoots him an annoyed look and turns his back to him, shaking hands with Hank.

*****

Livy stands in the kitchen as Ruth hands her a glass of lemonade. Tilting back the curtain, Livy leans over, looking out.

“Is that Stewie?”

Ruth beams back, nodding her head.

“It’s Reading Week so he’ll be here for nine whole days. Can you believe it?”

Livy takes a small sip.

“How fun. That’s going to be so great for both of you.”

Ruth nods her head again and pours glasses for the men. Lining them up on a small tin tray covered in transfers of bright red apples, she motions for Livy to get the door. Turning for the plate of Fig Newton’s, she balances the tray and heads out back.

Agreeable noises can be heard from outside.

Martha comes in the kitchen and runs her hands under the cool water. Livy stands by the window, watching Ruth chat with the boys.

“How are those two doing, anyway?”

Martha smiles, confidently.

“Good. They seem real good.”

“You know what I mean. “

“Oh Livy, she’s fine. It’s Ray who’ll never live that one down.”

*****

Livy sits at the desk in the front room. The sky outside the window is as black as coal. Light from the amber coloured lamp casts a yellow glow over everything. She smoothes her nighty and picks up her pen. Holding it in her right hand, she starts chewing on the end. In the wastebasket below her are four or five bunched up sheets of stationary. She sighs and puts her hands down to the blank page.

Dear Father,

Pausing, she turns in the chair and glances at her mother’s letter, still unopened and sitting propped on the mantel.

She turns back to the page in front of her.

Thank you so much for your kind….

*****

Danny comes in the front door, letting it slam behind him. Walking into the kitchen, he sees Livy moulding two hunks of ground beef into meatloaves. He washes his hands and picks up the thin slices of onion and red pepper she’s chopped on the board. He starts arranging them on top of the loaves and then sprinkles it all with salt and pepper.

She watches him from her peripheral vision. loving the fact that he still considers this his job. He doesn’t know that they deliberately eat late when meatloaf’s on the menu just so he can be a part of it.

“How did today go?”

“Okay. I Guess.”

“What happened?”

“Mack’s gone. He’s not going to school with us anymore!”

“Well, that’s good. An education is a privilege. Anyway, he’s too old. He should have been gone two years ago.”

“But Mama he can’t even read good. He talks all bad and –“

“WELL. He can’t read well.”

“But – “

“Danny, it was up to his parents to spend the time with him. Your father and I started very young with you. And how do you think I got interested in archaeology? Mama read to me from Odysseus before I went to school.”

Danny looks down, stricken by the injustice of it all.

Livy takes his chin between her finger and thumb, tilting his head up to face her.

“He’ll be fine. Once he’s mature enough to take in interest in his own future, he’ll be all right. If he finds the right person to help him, he’ll do well. Trust me.”

“Yes Ma’am.”

*****

Ray rubs his knuckle across his nose, one elbow crooked under his head. Livy enters the room, still rubbing lotion into her hands. He looks up at her appreciatively. She laughs softly at that face she knows so well.

Tapping his arms at his sides he gestures for her to come over. She unties her robe. He grabs the bottom corner and tugs, pulling the whole issue away. It slides from his fingers and falls to the floor.

She sits on the side of the bed and scooches over. She pulls her hands up under her chin.

“Are you cold”

“A little.”

Ray get s up and pulls the window down all but a crack. Turning, he looks at her lying across the bed.

“Do you know how pretty you are, lying there like that?”

Ray walks around to her side of the bed and leans over her. Kneeling, he bends down and slides one arm under her. Turning her over on her side he lies down behind her and pulls her close. She can feel him on every inch of her body.

His hands reach over the front and rest, open and possessive on her growing belly. He buries his face in her neck. He takes a deep breath and then sighs, allowing the day to come to an end.

“You smell good, Livy.”

Reaching, she squeezes his hand. Pulling it up to her face, she kisses the tips of his fingers.

“So do you.”

Ray lifts her nighty, rubbing her legs. Suddenly he stops.

“OH – uh – you okay? I mean, are you… uh… tired?”

“No Ray, I’m not tired.”

Livy reaches behind and takes his hand, putting it back where it should be.

*****

Livy waves to Ray as he pulls out of the driveway. Coming up the porch she hears the phone ringing.

“Hello?”

“Livy?”

“Oh Abby. It’s so funny – I was just thinking of you.”

“You were?”

“Yes I was writing a letter to Father and – “

“You were? But how – “

“He wrote me. A lovely letter, really. Oh Abby, it was so nice. He said you told him about the baby and I think he wants to – to be in our life.”

“Oh, Liv, I’m SO thrilled. That’s wonderful.”

“Thank you for telling him. It’s all because of you.”

They continue chatting for some time. Eventually she pulls up a chair and sits, eager for it not to end.

The dull wurring of a truck engine comes from out front.

“Oh so sorry, can you hold on? Someone’s here.”

Placingthe receiber on the chair, Livy walks out to the porch as Stewie climbs out of the driver’s seat of Hank’s truck.

“They decided to build a new shed. I’m supposed to get the see saw. “

Livy gestures to the back of the property.

“I’m just on the phone but you go on back and help yourself to whatever you need. Is Ray over there with you?”

Stewie nods, walking around the house.

Livy goes inside, picking up the receiver.

“Sorry, Stewie just came to borrow something.”

“How are those two doing anyway? You never finished telling me what happened that morning.”

“Oh, that’s right. Well it was terrible at the time but we’re starting to be able to laugh at it now. We’ll, except for Ray.”

“Why?”

“Well, after Martha called to say he was missing, we just jumped in the car to head over there. What we didn’t know was that they found Stewie about five minutes later. They tried phoning but we’d already left.”

“Where was he.”

“In the hole.”

“THE HOLE? What do you mean THE HOLE?”

Livy chuckles.

“When I moved out here, I mentioned to Ray that I liked to swim. So he decided we needed a watering hole. Anyway, they tried digging one but it just wouldn’t work. There was always a problem with the water turning foul or something or other. It always bothered Ray. Then when Danny turned 3 they decided enough was enough and they finally figured it out. They did ours first and then Hank and Martha’s.”

“So he was in the hole.”

“Yes. He said he woke up and Ruth was sleeping so soundly and he didn’t want to wake the whole house by running a bath so we went out to the hole.”

“Then what?”

“So we pulled up in the truck and before I was even out, Ray ran around to the back of the house to find Hank and cook a a plan to find the missing groom. Except when he got back there he didn’t see Hank, he saw Stewie. Lying on his back. Floating, eyes closed, in the hole.”

“Uh-oh.”

“That’s right. Taking him for drowned, Ray sprinted over and jumped in. He grabbed Stewie up in his arms and tried to carry him to the edge.”

Abby cannot stop laughing.

“When Stewie struggled free Ray could see he was fine. Then before anyoe knew what was happening, Ray let out this huge yell and Stewie started running. Ruth stepped out the back porch just in time to see her new husband sprinting around the yard, naked as a jaybird, her Uncle Ray one step behind all the way. By the time I got back there she was in tow behind Ray.”

Abby’s laughter coming through the phone fills Livy with happiness.

“Oh, Liv. I just love your stories. And we worried that things would get boring for you out there!”

Just then a vehicle door slams in the driveway again.

“Oh Abby, I’m so sorry. I should go and make sure Stewie got what he needed. I can hear him leaving. Can I call you back tonight?”

After uttering their goodbyes for now, Livy walks over to the screen door. Opening it she steps out onto the porch.

“Stewie, would you like - ?”

Standing before her is a tall, dark haired boy about eighteen years old. He removes his baseball cap and plays with it in his hands.

“Mrs. Singleton?”

“Yes. Can I help you?”

“I’m Mack.”

Her face freezes politely as she struggles to place the name.

“Mack from school.”

He continues fussing with his hat.

“Danny said… Danny sent me. He said you were just the person.”

“I’m sorry, just the person for what?”

“Ma’am, Danny said you’d be willing to help me. To read.”

Livy brings her hand up to her mouth.

Part 8 by ScriptGirl

Just This Side of Tomorrow – Part 8

Livy wipes the flour from her hands, letting small dry crumbs of pastry dough fall into the sink. It’s taken her years but she’s finally feeling worthy enough to bake a pie. It wasn’t long ago she was still burning eggs and turning potatoes to mush.

She laughs, shaking her head at her cockiness. She had been such an academic when she’d first arrived - thought it was all as simple as reading a book. Now she understands. And the look on Ray’s face over the years has gone from relief to pride as her skills have improved.

She brushes egg whites over her basket weave crust and sprinkles salt and pepper on top.

“What time’s supper? I really need a bath before we eat.” Ray calls from the front door.

Livy walks into the hall.

“Oh my.”

Ray’s soaked from head to toe. His face is so grimy; two holes peek through where he’s rubbed his eyes. His hands are raised as though he’s being held at gunpoint.

She laughs, covering her mouth with her hand.

“I haven’t seen this much autumn rain since, well since before you came anyway.”

Livy takes off his hat and hangs it on the hook for drying.

“The pie’ll be an hour.”

He raises his eyebrows.

“Chicken.”

Livy walks up to him, turning his shoulders with her hands and marching him towards the stairs.

He smiles at her.

“Sounds good. “

******

Danny takes a drink of his milk, wiping his face with his napkin.

“ – then when Miss Borden told him to sit again, he just stood there and told her to SHUT IT. That’s what he said Mama. He said SHUT IT. Just like that.”

Ray takes a bite of potato as Livy listens intently.

“That’s shocking. What did Miss Borden do?”

Danny swallows and takes a deep breath before continuing.

“That’s the worst part. She cried. Here we are shaking in our boots since school started – and she just goes and cries.”

Ray looks up at Danny, concerned now.

“How old is this boy?”

Danny slams his hands on his thighs.

“That’s the thing! He’s one year older than her - and a foot taller. What do you think of that?”

Livy looks at Ray, concerned.

“Danny, is Miss Borden married?”

“Nope. She lives alone in an apartment in Wilson.”

Livy looks intrigued now.

“How did she come to work here?”

Danny goes back to his food, shrugging.

“I guess she lived her for awhile when she was a kid is all.”

“Do you remember a family called Borden?” Livy glances at Ray.

“Can’t say for sure. Don’t think so.”

“Danny, I’m going to write a note to Miss Borden and invite her for Sunday lunch next week. She must be terribly lonely. I – yes, it’s the right thing to do.”

Ray stands, pushing back his chair.

“Speaking of a note, that reminds me. You had a letter today.”

Ray goes to the hook on the wall and digs around his inside jacket pockets.

“You were in town? Did you pick up the cotton batten?”

“I did. It’s on the front seat.”

Livy smiles, pleased and excited. She’s making her first quilt ever, for the baby.

Finding the envelope he hands it to her. A slight frown flickers across her brow.

“Doesn’t look like Abby. What address is that?” Ray wonders.

“It’s from my father.”

Danny comes running into the hall.

“Can I go meet Jeremy for an hour before homework?”

Ray nods his head. Danny runs out the door.

Livy walks over to the chesterfield. Ray sits beside her. She hands him the envelope.

“Would you read it to me?”

Ray tears it open gently, removing the folded paper. Another small but thicker envelope falls out. He picks that up and rests it on his lap for the moment. Clearing his throat, he begins as Livy stares at him, hanging on every word.

Dear Olivia,

Four months ago, your sister made me aware of your condition. Since that time I have been struggling with what to do. I understand that you’re living a wonderful and joyous life. I’ve hesitated to contact you and perhaps spoil things in an effort to selfishly carve out my own place in it. I cannot believe how the years have gone by. I’ve continued to pray for guidance.

My sermon last Sunday began with one of your mother’s favorites, from Proverbs:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him
and he will direct your path.

Though I have delivered these words to parishioners more times than I can count, their sentiments echoed through my mind for days afterwards.

Then, an exhaustive search for an old address lead me to some boxes in the attic and I came across a letter your mother was working on but never finished. The letter was meant for you. Your mother fussed over it for more than a week. It was right before you came to stay.

I have to confess to you, daughter, it was difficult not to read these pages. My heart aches for your mother every hour of every day. I only wish I had spoken as many words to her in life as she does to me in death. She is always with me.

Still, they were meant for your eyes and so I have put them in an envelope and sealed it shut to avoid the temptation. What you do with it now is up to you. I hope that it brings you some comfort.

It is my sincere hope that you and your family are happy and well.

Best,
Your Father


Ray folds the page delicately and puts it back in the envelope. Looking at Livy, he hands her the second envelope. As she blinks hard, tears pour down her cheeks.

Taking it in her hands, she sees her father’s handwriting across the front.

“For Olivia, from your Mother.”

Livy hands the letter back to Ray.

“I can’t. Not yet.”

He stands and puts it up high on the mantel, a place of importance next to a portrait of his parents.

“It’ll keep, till your ready. We’ll leave it right here.”

Livy nods, blinking back tears as she laughs. Ray looks puzzled.

“My father – he wants to know me again.”

She dabs at her eyes as Ray wraps her up in his arms.

*****

Ray swerves the beet box up the path to Martha’s house. Martha opens the screen door and steps out onto the porch.

“You left that beautiful shiny red thing at home and came in the farm truck?”

Livy chuckles. “I still love it. So many good memories.”

Ray looks down at his boots, a secret smile fading as quickly as it appeared.

Livy jogs up the stairs as Ray heads around back to join the men.

Stewie looks up from chopping kindling.

“Well, well. Racer Ray. How’s it going?’

Ray shoots him an annoyed look and turns his back to him, shaking hands with Hank.

*****

Livy stands in the kitchen as Ruth hands her a glass of lemonade. Tilting back the curtain, Livy leans over, looking out.

“Is that Stewie?”

Ruth beams back, nodding her head.

“It’s Reading Week so he’ll be here for nine whole days. Can you believe it?”

Livy takes a small sip.

“How fun. That’s going to be so great for both of you, Ruth.”

Ruth nods her head again and pours glasses for the men. Lining them up on a small tin tray covered in transfers of bright red apples, she motions for Livy to get the door. Turning back for a tube of Fig Newton’s, she balances the tray and heads out back.

Agreeable noises can be heard from outside.

Martha comes in the kitchen and runs her hands under the cool water. Livy stands by the window, watching Ruth chat with the boys.

“How are those two doing, anyway?”

Martha smiles, confidently.

“Good. They seem real good.”

“You know what I mean. “

“Oh Livy, she’s fine. It’s Ray who’ll never live that one down.”

*****

Livy sits at the desk in the front room. Light from the amber coloured lamp casts a yellow glow over everything. She smoothes her nighty and picks up her pen. Holding it in her right hand, she starts chewing on the end. In the wastebasket below her are four or five bunched up sheets of stationary. She sighs and puts her hands down to the blank page.

Dear Father,

Pausing, she turns in the chair and glances at her mother’s letter, still unopened and sitting propped on the mantel.

She turns back to the page in front of her.

Thank you so much for your kind….

*****

Danny comes in the front door, letting it slam behind him. Walking into the kitchen, he sees Livy moulding two hunks of ground beef into meatloaves. He washes his hands and picks up the thin slices of onion and red pepper she’s chopped on the board. He starts arranging them on top of the loaves and then sprinkles it all with salt and pepper.

She watches him from her peripheral vision, not wanting him to know. She loves the fact that he still considers this his job. He doesn’t know that they deliberately eat late when meatloaf’s on the menu just so he can be a part of it.

“Well, Danny, how did today go?”

“Okay. I Guess.”

“What happened?”

“Mack’s gone. He’s not going to school with us anymore!”

“Well, that’s good. An education is a privilege. Anyway, he’s too old. He should have been gone two years ago.”

“But Mama he can’t even read good. He talks all bad and –“

“WELL. He can’t read well.”

“But – “

“Danny, it was up to his parents to spend the time with him. Your father and I started very young with you. And how do you think I got interested in archaeology? Mama read to me from Odysseus before I went to school.”

Danny looks down, stricken by the injustice of it all.

Livy takes his chin between her finger and thumb, tilting his head up to face her.

“He’ll be fine. Once he’s mature enough to realize he wants to do well and he takes in interest in his own future, he’ll be all right. If he finds the right person to help him, he’ll do well. Trust me.”

“Yes Ma’am.”

Danny nods his head and runs upstairs.

*****

Ray rubs his knuckle across his nose, one elbow crooked under his head. Livy enters the room, still rubbing lotion into her hands. He looks up at her appreciatively. She laughs softly at that face she knows so well.

Tapping his arms at his sides he gestures for her to come over. She unties her robe. He grabs the bottom corner and tugs, pulling the whole issue away. It slides from his fingers and falls to the floor.

She sits on the side of the bed and scooches over. She pulls her hands up under her chin.

“Are you cold”

“A little.”

Ray get s up and pulls the window down all but a crack. Turning, he looks at her lying across the bed.

“Do you know how pretty you are, lying there like that?”

Ray walks around to her side of the bed and leans over her. Kneeling, he bends down and slides one arm under her head. Turning her over on her side he lies down behind her and pulls her close. She can feel him on every inch of her body.

His hands reach over the front and rest open and possessive on her growing belly. He buries his face in her neck. He takes a deep breath and then sighs, allowing the day to come to an end.

“You smell good, Livy.”

Reaching over, she squeezes his hand. Pulling it up to her face, she kisses the tips of his fingers.

“So do you.”

Ray lifts her nighty, rubbing her legs. Suddenly he stops.

“OH – uh – you okay? I mean, are you… uh… tired?”

“No Ray, I’m not tired.”

Livy reaches behind and takes his hand, putting it back where it should be.

*****

Livy waves to Ray as he pulls out of the driveway. Coming up the porch she hears the phone ringing.

“Hello?”

“Livy?”

“Oh Abby. It’s so funny – I was just thinking of you.”

“You were?”

“Yes I was writing a letter to Father and – “

“You were? But how – “

“He wrote me. A lovely letter really. Oh Abby, it was so nice. He said you told him about the baby and I think he wants to – to be in our life.”

“Oh, Liv, I’m SO thrilled. That’s wonderful.”

“Thank you for telling him. It’s all because of you.”

They continue chatting for some time. Eventually she pulls up a chair and sits, eager for it not to end.

The dull wurring of a truck engine comes fro out front.

“Oh sorry Abby, can you hold on? Someone’s here.”

Livy walks out to the porch as Stewie’s climbing out of the driver’s seat of Hank’s truck.

“They decided to build a new shed. I’m supposed to get the see saw. “

Livy gestures to the back of the property.

“I’m just on the phone but you go on back and help yourself to whatever you need. Is Ray over there with you?”

Stewie nods, heading on back.

Livy jogs back inside, picking up the receiver.

“Sorry, Stewie just came to borrow something.”

“How are those two doing anyway? You never finished telling me what happened that morning.”

“Oh, that’s right. Well it was terrible at the time but we’re starting to be able to laugh at it now. We’ll, except for Ray.”

“Why?”

“Well, after Martha called to say he was missing, we just jumped in the car to head over there. What we didn’t know was that they found Stewie about five minutes later. They tried phoning but we’d already left.”

“Where was he.”

“In the hole.”

“THE HOLE? What do you mean THE HOLE?”

Livy chuckles.

“When I moved out here, I mentioned to Ray that I liked to swim. So he decided we needed a watering hole. Anyway, they tried digging one but it just wouldn’t work. There was always a problem with the water turning foul or something. It always bothered Ray. The when Danny turned 3 they decided enough was enough and they finally figured it out. They did ours first and then Hank and Martha’s.”

“So he was in the hole.”

“Yes. He said he woke up and Ruth was sleeping so soundly and he didn’t want to wake the whole house by running a bath so we went out to the hole.”

“Then what?”

“So we pulled up in the truck and before I was even out, Ray ran around to the back of the house to find Hank and figure out what they were going to do. Except when he got back there he didn’t see Hank, he saw Stewie. Lying on his back. Floating, eyes closed, in the hole.”

“Uh-oh.”

“That’s right. So Ray sprinted over and jumped into the hole. Taking him for drowned, Ray grabbed Hank up in his arms and tried to carry him to the edge.”

Abby cannot stop laughing.

“When Stewie struggled free Ray could see he was fine. Then before I knew it, Ray let out this huge yell and Stewie started running. Ruth stepped out the back porch just in time to see her new husband sprinting around the yard, naked as a jaybird, her Uncle Ray one step behind all the way. By the time I got back there she was in tow behind Ray.”

Abby’s laughter coming through the phone fills Livy with happiness.

“Oh, Liv. I just love your stories. And we worried that things would get boring for you out there!”

Just then a vehicle door slams in the driveway again.

“Oh Abby, I’m so sorry. I should go and make sure Stewie got what he needed. I can hear him leaving. Can I call you back tonight?”

After uttering their goodbyes for now, Livy walks over to the screen door. Opening it she steps out onto the porch.

“Stewie, would you like - ?”

Standing before her is a tall, dark haired boy about eighteen years old. He removes his baseball cap and plays with it in his hands.

“Mrs. Singleton?”

“Yes. Can I help you?”

“I’m Mack.”

Her face freezes politely as she struggles to place the name.

“Mack from school.”

He continues fussing with his hat.

“Danny said… Danny sent me. He said you were just the person.”

“I’m sorry, just the person for what?”

“Ma’am, Danny said you’d be willing to help me. To read.”

Livy brings her hand up to her mouth.

Reminder: It's a Jericho night tonight!

Can't figure out what to do on a Friday night? Why not spend it with Skeet Ulrich?

They are showing Season One episodes starting tonight --Don't forget to watch and be heard. After all we fought for this, let's show our continued support.

JERICHO Fridays at 9pm (click to watch a cool video)

Bring on the nuts!

Wednesday, July 19, 1944

I have finally met Olivia.

She walked in the room as the Reverend introduced us to each other. Our eyes met and she looked down. I felt my face grow hot and I instinctively gripped the brim of my hat tighter as if that gesture alone would keep me from falling over.

It had been a hot day. I worked all morning around the farm and hadn’t the appetite to take any food. I had wondered if I had caught the sun when I reached out and shook her hand for I cannot believe the sight standing before me.

She was incredibly beautiful. I cannot believe my eyes. Certainly Reverent Case must have been mistaken and picked the wrong girl from the station. Not one single thought, save probably the eyes, of what I have imagined her to be had matched the Olivia in my mind.

Read Ray's entire entry here.