One Boy's Journey Chapter 29

Written by Brianna Demonet

We went to the new house. Dan unlocked the house and we walked in. We started in the garage. Dan had his tape measure. 34'x42'. Along the back wall were kitchen cabinets both on the floor and on the wall.

Being the curious one of the bunch I started opening them. They were stuffed full of supplies. Most of them are still in boxes.

Dad, what's all this for? That sweetheart is half of everything missing in the house. Let's take a quick peek and see what's here.

Dad started pulling out all kinds of electrical stuff. I opened up what looked like a closet and found 8 boxes with ceiling fans still sealed up brand new.

Ree, did you bring your tablet? No, but I can note everything on my phone. Dad starts listing everything there. We put everything back as we found it. Mom was just staying back and out of the way.

After the garage inspection, we went downstairs and had a much closer look. Dad started pulling panels off the breaker box and the furnace.

When did you pack that? Mom asked.

What? My inspection kit! It was the first thing I packed. I kinda figured you would want to shop for a house.

Always the Boy Scout! Mom said smiling.

Always honey! He winked at Mom.

I was beginning to like the thought of two parents. Dad had me take separate notes for each item in every location in every room separate from each other.

The one thing he did have I knew how to use was the digital voltmeter. This was the one thing I knew more about than he did.

I'm impressed kiddo, again! Keep it up!

Dad verified that all the electrical, Furnace, A/C, and plumbing were solid. We checked a back room in the basement and found all brand new interior doors for the house still bound up in their frames as I saw in the store.

I added it to the inventory list. Dad got out a small square like we used in shop class. He checked every corner of every room where something would be installed. Mom was getting bored quickly but held her tongue.

I took a lot of notes. As I watched my new Dad was inspecting this house. I never saw an expression to cause me any concern. We went through every bathroom and the kitchen.

Then Dad went out to the pool and checked the hot tub, pool pumps, and the heaters. I was impressed with how much he knew and what to look for. I played assistant, turning breakers on and off. I took notes and copied every gauge reading.

Before the day started, the only thing I knew about electricity was on and off 110 volts for a wall socket and 5.5 volts for a network cable. Now I knew about resistance in the wires, he explained to me what PSI meant (pounds of pressure per square inch). He also explained all houses are supplied with 220 volts, and the breaker box converts the power to 110 volts.

The last thing we did was check the elevation of the house itself. I asked why. Dad said in case of heavy rains, proper excavation of the ground outside is important to protect the home.

Now I am more than impressed! I said.

So am I said Mom, smiling.

How do you know all this? Asked mom. My grandpa was an excavator, my father was in construction and an electrician.

I thought you were in the army? Mom said.

I was, but I got a degree in Heating and Cooling or, HVAC as they call it today.

So you come from a long line of Do-it-yourselfers? I asked.

You could say that kiddo!

So what's the verdict, Dan? Asked mom.

Let's lock up and grab some lunch at that Black Bear diner and I'll tell you.

Dad drives, and I sit up front, navigating. Mom sits behind me in the back.

Well, we gathered a lot of good information on the house today. I understand now why it's been for sale for so long.

Is that good or bad for us? Asked Mom.

For a regular buyer, it's bad; for us, it's very good. It all depends on what the counteroffer is.

As long as the counteroffer is under 550 thousand, it's a steal! Any higher and my advice is we discuss it through. I still want a home inspection on the property.

But you inspected it, said Mom.

Yes, Brenda, I did, but the home inspector will have access to building permits and the actual work that was done and who did it. The inspector will have to disclose if there is anything else that needs repairs or completion.

We pull into the diner. We grabbed the big corner booth. Vickie is working.

Rianna! Hi Vickie! This is my Mom, Brenda, and my Dad, Dan!

So nice to see you again.

Are you enjoying the Holidays? Vickie asked.

So far! I said smiling.

What can I get for you? She poured coffee for Mom and Dad.

Club sandwich basket, said Dan. Chef's salad French dressing please, I said. Chef's salad with blue cheese dressing, please, Mom said.

Be right back!

The two biggest jobs I can see are the flooring and painting and trim work. That's something we will have to have done. We can save money by painting the smaller rooms. It's still a lot to paint. Once the painting is completed and the floors are done the interior doors can be installed and the trim installed.

Once all the flooring, painting, and trim work is done. The rest is relatively easy to work. Install the bathroom vanity and sink in each bathroom. Mirrors, lighting fixtures, and outlets.

That sounds like a great deal of work, Dan!

Yes, Brenda, it is. It's about triple what we did with the salon and your home combined.

Vickie came back with our order. She filled my water and their coffees.

We can look at other places if you ladies want to!

Is there an advantage to us fixing it up as opposed to buying one already to move in? I asked. Besides the price? I asked.

Several, Ree Ree!

The first one is taxes. State of Nevada property tax codes on state foreclosed property that requires work before occupancy permit. They state that as long as you live in the house you fix up, property taxes are based on the purchase price regardless of the home value.

That means your property taxes will be half of your neighbors.

Second, what's called sweat equity. Every minute of work and every dollar spent out of your pocket will add equity to the value of your home.

You ladies have a third advantage most home buyers don't have. Cash sale!

By purchasing the home in cash, with no lien on the home, and the bank sees the advantage of a quick and simple sale, everyone makes out.

According to my friend Anita, that house has been on the market for at least a year, maybe longer. I said.

That's good for us, right Dan?

Yes, Brenda, Very good.

Just because the house was foreclosed on doesn't mean the taxes stop getting paid. The bank has to pay them. The bank doesn't want to keep paying taxes on something that is not making money. The longer they wait, the more it costs them.

I keep listening, I never hear Dad say don't buy it. But he hasn't said yes either. I did notice him saying your house and your home. He never said anything about ours.

I was kinda thinking to myself what does that mean? I never thought for a single second Dan was marrying my mom because of the settlements. Dan wasn't rich, but he wasn't poor either. A classic Corvette in his garage, I have seen his truck. It was a nice-looking 4-wheel drive. And the ring he bought Mom was nice!

They talked more about the house. I sat and listened. I nodded from time to time.

Dad touched my hand and asked, what do you think about it, Ree Ree?

Yes, Rianna, said Mom. What are your thoughts?

Can I be honest? I said.

Please! They said in unison.

I fell in love with that house almost from the day I first saw it.

I know it needs a lot of love and work. But I needed a lot of love and work when I moved out here. I was given everything I needed for a second chance.

When we went through it today, I felt like the house was talking to me. We found so many pieces that will help us finish it. I felt like it wanted me to make it a home.

I was broken and healing when I came out here. Now, I found this house, and it felt like it was my turn to help this place.

I know that sounds stupid or mushy, but it's true. I will do whatever it takes to make it our home.

I see a lot of advantages in fixing it up. The biggest one is we can design it any way we want to. I said. And it's the same floor plan as Aunt V's. I said.

As long as the inspection comes back without too many issues I think we should get it. Mom said.

The only problem I can see, it's a lot to ask of my new Dad. Yes, I love this house, but I don't want to think my new Dad has to do this.

Dan/Dad, you don't have to do this if you don't want to. I won't feel less fond of you if you don't want to take on this project. I said.

That's a great point Rianna said Mom. It's a lot to ask of you. Yes, I want to marry you. But you don't have to do this. You are not obligated to build a new home much less kill yourself repairing this one. Mom said.

Brenda, Rianna. He grabbed both our hands. I love you both. Brenda, I fell in love with you almost a year and a half ago, when you dropped off Ryan on the first day of school.

My heart began beating again. I've been a widower for over 5 years. I never thought I'd fall in love again. I remembered you and Ryan when I worked at the elementary school before I was transferred to the high school.

When I saw you that first day of school, it felt like a sign. But I was so scared to approach you. Brenda, you are so beautiful and younger than I am. I put off the idea because of our age difference.

I couldn't shake what I felt about you. My daughters are almost your age, Brenda. I was afraid they would object to the idea of me asking you out. I had long talks with my daughters and their families. They only want to see me happy. Brenda, you make me very happy.

Rianna you should know, maybe you do. I always tried to keep an eye on you in school. I failed you on the day you needed me the most. I, I! I'm so sorry!

Dad! My attack wasn't your fault! It wasn't mine or Mom's. It is all on them. I always knew you watched out for us wimpy kids even in elementary school. I always thought you were kind and protective.

Truth be told here, I always fantasized about you as my Dad or how a Dad should be!

You saved my life, you helped lock up those boys. If making a difference in life is one of the reasons you do the things you do, mission accomplished! I said.

You saved my life; you made my mother happier than I have ever seen her. You made it possible for her to start cutting ties back home and move out west.

You've done more than your fair share Dad! I squeezed his hand gently.

I looked at Mom crying; I was crying. I saw Dad tear up too.

Vickie came by the table. Can I get you any...

We're fine Vickie! I said with tears in my eyes.

Napkins, please! said Mom.

Vickie left a handful of napkins and left.

Brenda, I have been in love with you for a long time. The past 6 months only confirmed that even more. Rianna I always thought you were a nice kid. Watching you endure what you went through and seeing evolve into a beautiful, intelligent young woman.

As a friend, I am happy for you. As your soon-to-be father, I am very proud of you. Your mother raised a very nice person. As your soon-to-be father, my goal for you, Rianna, is to give and teach you what I can.

I want to do this with both of you and with this house. Brenda, you deserve your dream home. Rianna, if you are willing to help me, I will teach you as much as I can.

Ohh Dan!!!!! Mom hugged him tightly. I got out of my side of the booth and hugged him too. Mom and I were full of tears. Our makeup was a mess.

Ohh!!! Says Dad. Thank you, Daddy! I said. It just felt right at the moment. I love you, Dan. Mom and I each kissed a cheek.

Excuse us, Dan, we need to freshen up.

Mom and I went to the bathroom and cleaned up. We needed major repair work for our makeup. Our makeup was similar looking, daytime light makeup. We both did our lips in my signature ombre pink.

You know, Ree, you do look like me as a young girl. We looked in the mirror; we could be sisters, Mom! Yes, we could! We giggled together. Mom, I missed you. I miss you too sweetheart.

Rianna do you want that house or something else? I want that house, Mom. The three of us can make it exactly as we want it. The question is, Mom, do you want it?

Yes, Rianna, I want it too. I always wanted to build a home for us. Now we have the chance. Plus, with a house that big, we can have others visit us.

Have you met Dan's daughters?

No, not yet. I do know they know about us. Come On! We don't want to keep your father waiting.

My father, I love the sound of that! Thanks for everything, Mom!

I love you, baby girl!

This was the first time Mom called me baby girl. I loved the sound of it.

Dan was sipping a fresh cup of coffee.

So Dan, what is your final verdict for the house?

If we can get the place for under 550 thousand dollars. It's a very good deal. But we still have to wait for the home inspection and the current permits.

I like the place! We can do a lot with it. But it will take some money and work. This isn't going to be a 60-day renovation; it will take time. Dad said.

If I have spare time, it's yours, Dad!

Brenda? So I get to choose my colors and flooring and other things?

You're the homeowner Brenda! Dad said smiling.

Then, barring any negative reports, let's buy it said Mom.

One condition said Dan. Let me negotiate the price.

Deal! Said mom, just keep it under 600 thousand, please.

I will honey, lower if I can help it. Dad said.

I am so excited!

Easy Ree Ree! We aren't there yet, but soon. Dad said.

Where to Ladies? Asked Dan.

How about the mall? Said mom.

Which way Ree Ree?

Take a right Dad!

We went to the Meadows Mall.

We separated and agreed to meet at Starbucks in 90 minutes.

Dad went off on his way.

Okay honey, where is Victoria's Secret?

This way! I pulled her hand with excitement.

When we got there, Heather was working.

Hi Ree!

Hi Heather! This is my mother Brenda.

Pleasure! What can I help you with today?

I need a couple of bras, Mom said.

Heather's keen eye sized up my Mom quickly. Would it be all right if I measured you first?

Mom hesitated for a moment.

It's okay, Mom, she helped me.

Okay, Heather! Mom said.

Right this way, please?

Mom and Heather disappeared to a changing room.

Heather came out, Ree let's pick some bras for your Mom.

Okay!

We must have picked out more than a dozen a couple with matching panties.

I noticed they were all 36 C-cup similar sizes to mine. My mom always wore a 34 B-cup for as long as I have known her.

Are these the correct size? I asked Heather.

Yes, your mom has a great shape, Ree. But, like many women, she's wearing the wrong bra size. A woman's figure is subject to change. Your mother's figure has blossomed without her noticing.

You are very good at your job Heather!

Thanks Ree.

When my mother came out she looked amazing!

Wow!!! Mom, you look incredible!

You think?

Ohh yes!!!

How do you feel?

Like a new woman.

Well, you look at it!

My blouse seems a bit tight though. We can fix that too, I said.

Mom bought 10 bras of different styles. 4 of them were racerback bras, my favorite. 2 Angel bras, 2 hard cups, and 2 T-shirt bras.

From there, we went to Macy's and went straight to the DKNY section. Mom bought a couple of really pretty blouses, a very nice black blazer dress, and a dark gray pencil skirt suit with matching pants.

We started to walk towards the shoe section when Mom spotted a blue sweater dress similar to my sweater dress. It was the same color as my school color. Mom and I each got one with silver belts.

We called Dad and said we needed another 30 minutes.

Mom started shoe shopping. This went surprisingly quickly. Mom got 4 pairs of heels, all with 4" heels. Mom rarely wore heels. We then got silver knee-high boots with 4" spike heels.

I took Mom to the MAC counter, and the lady gave Mom a brand new daytime look. She made my mom look like a million dollars!

Mom looked at me with a devilish smile. Want to have some fun with your dad?

What do you have in mind?

Let's dress to match in the sweater dresses and boots!

Let's do it! I said

We went back to the women's section and asked to use the dressing room. We changed into our sweater dresses and boots. I added a little extra eyeshadow and liner and touched up my lipstick. My mom's figure looked striking in the tight sweater dress.

I called Dad and told him we'd be there very soon and we were on the way.

I saw Dad sitting at the end of the platform by rail. I guided us to walk around and behind him. When we walked up the platform he didn't see us at first. I tried to keep us out of sight as long as possible. I saw Dad sipping on coffee.

Mom and I ordered. I paid for it before Mom had a chance.

Thanks, honey.

You're welcome, Mom.

Thanks for the dress and boots. My pleasure.

Thanks for doing this Ree!

Anything for you, Mom! I smiled brightly.

She asked, you are happy, aren't you?

Very happy Mom!

We got our drinks. We round the counter, and Dad saw us!

His mouth dropped open.

HI Dad!

Hi honey!

Dad was speechless.

Dan, are you alright? Dan?

You, you!!! Girls look... Great!

You like? Asked Mom, and she did a little spin.

Y, yes I like, like I love it!

You girls look like twin sisters.

Thanks, Daddy! I smiled and curtseyed! Mom curtsey also!

Dad just blushed!

Dad took pictures.

A lady sitting two tables away from us came over and offered pictures of the three of us.

You have lovely daughters, sir!

Dad chuckled a bit and said thank you, ma'am.

Your girls look like Irish twins!

How far apart are you girls in age?

About 20 years, Mom said, smiling.

She's your daughter?

Yes ma'am.

Ohh!!! I didn't mean to...

It's okay ma'am said Dan we are what's referred to now as a blended family.

The nice lady was blushing. Well, you make a lovely family, and you take a great picture.

I'm Brenda Stevens this is my daughter Rianna and my fiance Dan Milford.

Pleased to meet you I'm Kathryn Bigelow.

My Jaw just dropped!

Ma'am I mean no disrespect or anything. But are you thee Kathryn Bigelow the movie director? I asked.

Yes, young lady, I am. Not many people associate my name so quickly.

You directed the movie The Original Movie Point Break! Said Dad catching on fast.

Yes, and it's still one of my favorite projects to date!

You also directed Detroit, Zero Dark Thirty, and The Hurt Locker, said Dan. I'm a Veteran, I loved those movies.

Thank you for your service, Mr Milford.

Dan, please, Ms Bigelow.

Are you in the Drama club, young lady? I will be when school starts back up, swimming team as well.

How old are you, Rihanna, like the singer? 14 . I spell my name without the H.

Please, Ms Bigelow, call me Ree.

My Aunt Cathy, Becky, and Bree are going flip when I tell them I met you.

Wait! Cathy, Becky, and Bree, as in Pambini and Stapleton's?

Yes ma'am.

I know them well. We have lunch together when I am in San Francisco!

They are not my aunt's by blood, but they are close friends. We just got back from Hank and May's vineyard for Christmas.

That place is magical isn't it, Ms Bigelow said.

We think so too said Mom.

I don't do this very often, so please don't give out this information.

Here's my card. Email me whenever you're in SF visiting with your aunts. If I am available I would love to have lunch with you.

Thank you Ms Bigelow said Mom.

Ohh! Ree send me a video clip of your drama work. No promises now, but if it's good I might be able to get you a tiny part in a new project. If the timing works, and with your parent's permission, of course.

No promises, and keep it quiet, please. If I can use you I will contact you, deal?

Deal said, Dan.

It's been very nice meeting you, Ms Bigelow, said Mom.

Please call me Kathryn, Brenda. Nice meeting you Kathryn.

She smiled brightly, got up, and left.

OMG! I said.

She is so nice said Mom

Very down to earth said Dan.

She wants to see my work! I guess I better get hot on drama classes now.

You better call Cathy and Becky! Said mom.

You're going to need headshots and a portfolio, too, kiddo. Said Dad.

My head is still spinning. I only half listened to what my parents were saying.

What a great beginning to the New Year! I couldn't stop picturing my name in a staring role, heck even in the credits.

So honey, would you rather be an actress or an Attorney?

Attorney! A girl needs a trade to fall back on.

That's a smart kid said, Dad!

That's my girl. Mom said smiling brightly!

But an acting gig won't hurt a college application. I said.

A referral from Kathryn Bigelow wouldn't hurt either, said Dad.

Well, what should we do now? Asked mom.

Can we have John over for dinner? I asked.

Great Idea, Ree; I noticed a Costco down the street. I could grill up some steaks for us.

Thanks, Dad, I'll call him.