One Boy's Journey Chapter 27

Written by Brianna Demonet

I can see why Cathy, this place is magical. I said. In Ohio, it's flat, cornfields, farmland, factories, and too many trailer parks.

My dad has his tree farm I was planting trees every spring and cutting in the winter. We had a decent home. My parents were very tight with every dollar. Bree said.

Carol and I used to play in the woods all the time. There was no real city or actual activity until we got our driver's license and then we couldn't wait to leave. Now we go back for vacation. It seems so much different now.

It's funny how life throws you curve balls, I said.

Yeah, it is! Said Bree. I never thought I would be happy again or have children.

Now I have 3 kids I love and cherish.

I love your kids, Bree, I said.

I can't wait to be a cousin to your baby Cathy.

I hope you will be more than just a cousin Ree.

Do you want a boy or girl asked Bree?

Healthy Baby is what we both want. Ideally, I would love a girl. But I hope for one of each. I would love it if one of them could take over the vineyard. It's been in our family for 150 years. It's one of the oldest family wineries in California.

We had some crackers and sipped wine while we chatted about our hopes and dreams. I was just listening, staring at the view.

Penny, for your thoughts, Ree?

Asked Cathy. I was just thinking about John!

Ohhh!! Do tell? said Bree.

I know he's my first boyfriend, and I probably shouldn't feel so in love with him, but I can't help it.

Ree you're a young woman, it's normal. May told me she thinks John is going to perform the tea ceremony.

That's a very special ceremony, Ree. I did one with Caleb. The boy rarely instigates a tea ceremony. In your case, he will if he loves you.

Boys instigating the Tea ceremony need permission from their mother. If he does you'd better call me after.

I will Cathy right after I call your mother. May made me promise first.

What's a tea ceremony ask Bree.

They differ a bit in every Asian culture. A tea ceremony is when two people profess their love. The woman makes the tea and they share it.

I won't go into the details but it's a very intimate ceremony. There is no sex, but it's a very slow and loving way of demonstrating love and respect for your partner.

I did it with Caleb after about 3 months of dating. On Christmas Day of the same year, he asked me to marry him. He flew up to Napa Valley for a single day and asked my parent's permission to marry me. How he got that by me I still haven't figured out yet.

When my parents gave us their blessing I was so happy. Then Dan asked your mom in a similar fashion and announced he wanted to adopt you. I was so happy for all of you. Cathy said.

I remember that day fondly said Bree both Caleb and Steve were proposing at the same time. It was a great Christmas that Year.

Cathy, what would you think if your father gave my mother away at their wedding? Well, I would love it; I know my dad would, too. But you would have to ask my mom first.

It wouldn't surprise me if she said yes.

Cathy, what were you talking about with Dan outside?

Sweetheart, I can't tell you that, except to ask him. I can guarantee it was nothing bad. But you have to ask him, it's not our place to discuss it.

Come on, ladies, we have to get back and clean up; dinner will be ready soon. Ian's cooking again. Ian was a bacon-wrapped tenderloin roast, and Hank and Dan were assisting him. Caleb was playing with the girls, and James was taking a nap.

Terri, Becky, Aunt V, and Mom were upstairs. When we got upstairs. Mom was rolling Terri's hair. They were all chatting and giggling. My mom is in her element. They were all getting along like they had known each other for years.

It never ceases to amaze me how women can share so well. The six of us worked around each other getting ready for dinner. I wore my Black sweater dress with black stirrups, leggings, and black knee-high boots. I wore a pink hip belt Aunt V tied a pink bow in my hair

Mom wore the same as me, except she wore a red belt and ribbon. Everyone else was also dressing up for our last dinner. Bree and Terri wore long-sleeved turtle neck dresses in red and green. Becky wore black.

It was a spur-of-the-moment thing getting ready like we were, but it was a lot of fun. May came upstairs to check on us. May wore a white long-sleeved sheath dress with a red belt. I tied a bright red ribbon in her hair. Mom did her makeup.

The guys were all dressed in just jeans and sweaters.

Dinner! Ian called us upstairs.

Aunt V took charge lining us up like a parade. We went from shortest to tallest.

May was first followed by me, Mom, Cathy, Bree, Terri, Aunt V, and Becky.

Oh, boys!! May called.

The guy watched as we walked downstairs. All talking stopped. I saw their jaws drop as we walked past them. Caleb started taking pictures.

You're all so pretty said, Caitlin. Pretty said Violet.

All I could think of was wishing John was here. Caleb and Steve directed us to pose for a couple of pictures. Ian was stunned in silence. Hank and Dan were struck silent as well.

After a couple of pictures, Ian broke the silence.

Dinner Ladies, said Ian as he smiled in a very approving manner.

The guys raced around the table seating us. Dad sat Mom, and I. Hank sat May. Ian sat Becky and Bree then the girls. Steve sat Terri. Caleb sat Cathy. Ian and Caleb served up the meat.

The food was fantastic. May raved about Ian's cooking.

What do you like about it the most? Ian asked.

That I didn't have to cook it! Said May.

Everyone laughed.

Another enjoyable family-style dinner.

I had one glass of Lambrusco with dinner. James had a bottle of breast milk. The girls each had a piece of tenderloin that May had cut up small for them.

As the sun started to set we went outside. I wish John was here for me to snuggle with. I snuggled with Aunt V. Aunt V was the only one without a partner.

May asks Vanessa do you have someone special in your life?

Yes, her name is Taylor her daughter Lexi is Ree's Best friend.

We'll next time you should bring them. Hank can put some bunk beds for the girls in the office.

I sure can, no problem, said Hank smiling like a proud grandpa.

I will have to look into that. She takes care of her elderly mother. Vanessa said.

I hugged Aunt V a little tighter. Aunt V padded my side in thanks.

That doesn't mean you get out of bringing John here for the weekend sometime. I want to meet this young man, said May.

So do I said Hank with equal enthusiasm.

I will do my best to make time, I said. Swimming starts soon. We'll come to Vegas if that's what it takes.

We'll look into it said Aunt V. I squeezed her.

Terri and Steve were stealing kisses, and so was everyone else.

I kissed Aunt V on the cheek and told her I loved her. I knew it wasn't going to replace having Taylor with her, but it would lighten her load a bit.

My last magical sunset. Steve and Terri said their goodbyes until morning. I kissed Aunt V, went upstairs, and started packing up. I laid out my white sweater dress, black belt, stockings, and garter belt.

My curls were all but gone. I ran my hair through a flat iron before bed and slept in a headband.

I had just finished my hair when May asked me to roll her hair again. I was tired, but how could I say no?

May bought 3/8" rollers and wanted it as curly as possible. I had just started when Mom came in. Here, honey, let me show you a new technique that works great on Asian hair.

May had bought a super strong permanent solution, and as we finished, here came Cathy.

Got time for one more?

Have a seat I said.

Working with Mom was great. She was patient with me as we rolled up her hair. I started to get faster and more comfortable with it. We soaked their hair a second time in solution. Their hair really soaked it up.

When Caleb saw the rollers he said, Oh great! Rollers again! Rolling his eyes.

I thought you loved my curly hair.

I do, just not in bed!

Everyone laughed.

It's the price we have to pay to be beautiful, said Cathy.

That may be true, but you have never needed it. None of you do. Caleb said!

Cathy walked up to him and kissed him.

Don't ever forget it!

Not a chance, Caleb said and returned her kiss and rubbed his hand over her stomach.

I got up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom. I accidentally heard soft moaning coming from my parents' room. I knew what it was. I didn't stick around to listen. The thought of my Mom being happy with Dan made me smile. So lonely for years and now exceptionally happy.

I went back to sleep and dreamed about John. I was up early for Mother Nature's show, my last magical sunrise. May was still in rollers. She handed me a cup of espresso and we snuggled under a blanket to watch the sunrise.

Terri and Steve arrived before anyone else came downstairs. I went inside and poured them coffee. It was another peaceful morning. As the sun started to rise everyone was on the porch watching the sunrise.

As a boy, I never cared about a sunrise or a sunset. Here at the vineyard, I refused to miss one. I can't imagine a better place in the world for a better show. I never thought about anything pretty before. Now I appreciate all of it.

Hank took over breakfast duties with Caleb. They made steak and eggs. We had hash browns and toast with it. Again, Ian made certain I ate the entire steak. We packed up the suburban and said our goodbyes. Caleb and Cathy drove us to the airport.

It was the 29th of December. Mom and Dan had an appointment with the realtor the next day. There were 4 homes for sale in Aunt V's neighborhood I knew about. I wanted one with a pool. I don't want to live in another neighborhood. I was very comfortable there. Plus I knew we have county club access.

I don't want to sound snotty or snobby. I was used to it. It wasn't far from anything I was doing. Plus it was a very safe neighborhood. Yes, I still get a bit scared by myself, even in school, but it gets a little better every day.

I gave Mom my window seat so she could see the mountains. Less than 4 hours later we landed in Vegas and were on our way home. My phone started blowing up as we drove home. I had so many missed texts and calls.

I called John first to tell him I was back and promised to call him later. He wanted to take me out for dinner. Next, I called Lexi and Emma.

I had a strange number on my phone that called me 10 times. I showed Mom and Dad. Dad said that is an Ohio area code. It looks like Cleveland if I am not mistaken. Don't call it. I'll check it out with a friend.

I said okay, and left it at that. Dad texted Cathy and Becky the number. He is protective, so I felt a bit safer. Dan said they called at the same time. Turn off your phone for now and wait until an hour later, then turn it on again. Okay was all I said.

What is it, Dan?

Mom asked. I'm not sure but my hunch is it's an attorney that is probably trying to get information or contact Rianna. Those boys are appealing their prison sentences. If that's what it is any contact with them can be used to benefit their case.

I thought they couldn't do that, I asked. They're not supposed to. But it is a legal tactic and anything is possible. We'll have Cathy and Becky check into it before we respond. Until then do nothing.

Dan took my phone and turned off the GPS. We should probably get you a new phone number today.

But I have a new phone. Then we'll go to the store and get you a new number.

I wonder how they got your number? Mom asked.

I don't know, only a handful of people out here have it. I don't even have a Facebook account right now. I said.

It's the digital age anyone can be found online with enough patience. The trouble I am having is how would they know where to start looking. Dad said.

Look, Rianna, just relax, stick close to your friends for now, and don't post pictures or anything for now. I'll handle it. I still have friends on the force and I know some resourceful people. You'll be fine, trust me.

I trust you, Dad!

That's my girl! I smiled at him.

My parents and Aunt V said it was fine to go out with John.

Be home at midnight, Aunt V said.

I will I said.

You know the rule, young lady, if you are going to be late, you call me!

Yes, Auntie V.

As I was walking upstairs. I heard Mom say; you haven't had any problems with Ree?

Not a single one.

She was late once! And she called me. That was the night at the diner after the game when those boys tried making trouble. Ree went as far as to get the waitress's phone number to confirm her story.

John is a nice young man. I trust him; I even loaded him in my Escalade to take Ree and her friends and their dates to the winter dance at school.

John was picking me up at 6, I had just over an hour to get ready. I showered and put on my red sweater dress. I love the sweater dresses. They are form-fitting and still cover everything.

Knock, knock. Ree need any help?

Sure mom. Oh, I love that on you! Thanks, Mom. I just finished my foundation. Mom says let me do your hair quickly then I will do your eyeshadow.

Mom gave me a small beehive bun and ponytail. She trimmed my bangs just a touch then did my eyes in a black with a light smokey eye. She added my false eyelashes and did a two-tone blush that made my cheekbones pop! I did my lips in a solid red.

I put in my hoops John gave me. We were just finishing up when the doorbell rang. Dan answered the door.

Hello John,

Hi Mr Milford.

Come in son!

Thank you, sir.

Ree!!! John is here called Dad.

Mom and I walked down.

John never disappoints me. He smiled as I walked downstairs.

Ree you look beautiful.

Thanks handsome. I blushed a bit.

Remember John, midnight, yes, Ma'am John said to my mother.

Go ahead have fun stay safe. Yes, ma'am, we will, said John.

I kissed Mom, Aunt V, and Dad on the cheek as I walked out the door.

John opened my car door for me and off we went.

I missed you, Ree.

I missed you too. Sorry, I couldn't text or call much.

That's okay I can't imagine they have great cell service in the mountains.

Not where I was at, I said.

We went to Olive Garden for dinner. I had the chicken, Alfredo. I hadn't eaten since breakfast. John had the chicken Parmesan.

Ree, I have been thinking about you nonstop since you left.

You have been all I thought about too. I said.

Is everything ok with us spending New Year's Eve together? Yes, everything is good.

What are you doing tomorrow? House hunting with my mom and dad.

Dad?

Yes, Dan proposed to my mom on Christmas Day. He wants to adopt me.

That's great news. Where are you looking for a house?

I don't know yet. I want to stay close to where I am now.

So your Mom and Dan are both moving out here.

Yes in Vegas. I don't want to change schools again.

How was your Christmas, John?

It was good. My sisters were spoiled over the holiday. It was fun watching them rip open presents. My grandparents were in town. Then we visited my mom's sister for Christmas Dinner. I spent most of my time working or training.

Cathy's parents want to meet you. You are invited the next time I am invited to the vineyard. I showed him pictures of the vineyard and the sunsets and sunrises. I showed him pictures of the girls and James.

He thought they were cute. I liked the sunsets. I told him about about everyone snuggling together under the blankets. I was wishing he was there to snuggle with me. He said he would like that too.

We hooked feet under the table holding hands. I was just happy being with him again. After dinner, he took me to a putt-putt golf course. We were on the 10th hole. Having fun laughing at each other's shots. I saw a big familiar figure. I gripped John's arm tightly.

What's wrong, Ree? I nodded my head in the direction of the figure.

The figure turned and saw us. It was Blake Collins!

Relax Ree, there are cameras everywhere.

Cameras won't stop him, I said.

No, but I can! Said John. I saw that focused face again. I started concentrating on my breathing.

Blake saw us. He was with a pretty girl. She was dressed very nicely. We didn't avoid him, but we didn't try to attract his attention. He was one hole ahead of us. We took our time to start the next hole. We played this way for the next 3 holes.

I was certain he saw us at least once. John looked at me he knew I was scared.

Ree, just breathe. It's going to be alright. We caught up to them on the 16th hole.

Johnny Park!

Hey Blake! Happy New Year!

Yeah, you too. This is my girl Peggy.

Hello nice to meet you, said John.

Hi Peggy I'm Rianna.

What a pretty name, do you spell it with or without the H?

Without, please call me Ree.

I love your ankle boots, Peggy.

I love that sweater dress Ree.

I could tell right away she was nice.

John, could I have a minute?

Sure, Blake.

They walked a few steps away.

I've seen you somewhere before said Peggy.

Do you go to Meadows?

Yes, I do. That's it. You're a cheerleader, aren't you?

I was for football. You were in the dance routine.

Yes, I was.

You girls were great. I am a cheerleader, too!

What grade are you in? Peggy asked.

I'm a sophomore.

I'm a junior, Peggy said.

How long have you and Blake been dating?

A couple of months we started dating after Blake joined the Clark County Explorers.

You're an explorer.

2 years now, I am studying to be a criminalist.

Wow, forensic science. That's great.

Have you thought about college?

Yes, I am studying to be an Attorney.

That's great. Who knows we may bump into each other professionally, I said.

It's possible!

Rianna!

I turned to face Blake. I want to apologize to you for scaring you like my friends and I did.

I can assure you it won't happen again.

Apology accepted Blake.

By the way, you are a lucky girl; John is a good guy.

It was nice meeting you, Ree. You too Peggy.

They started the hole and went about their business.

I looked at John and asked, everything good?

Yeah, everything is fine. He just apologized a bit more in-depth. He just wanted to assure me he wasn't holding a grudge.

He apologized to Julius a few days ago, but I didn't hardly believe it.

The miracle of Christmas I said!

John laughed your probably right!

We finished our golf game, and he drove us out of town for a bit. There was this big make-out place off a service road. I heard about it through Emma.

John found a place to park. He laid out a big blanket and we got comfortable. We lay there kissing, chatting about our futures. I listened to John talk about his training with Master Moon. He was excited about going to Korea again. He would get to see his family over there.

He listened when I told him about being accepted at UNLV for summer courses and going to San Francisco for a week or two in the summer. He was very supportive of my goals as much as I was of his.

You know the actual tournament is only one day, Ree and it's on a Saturday. You could come and watch me compete.

I would love to but Korea is a long trip. I'm not sure my mom or Aunt V will approve it.

Well, it was my mom's idea, and Dad agreed. If you want to go maybe we should have our parents talk about it.

Okay, I will ask them about it. It was about 11:20 when John said we better get you home. We have a big day the day after tomorrow.

He dropped me off at 11:55 pm. We kissed good night at the door.

I walked in at 11:58. Aunt V and Dad were asleep. Mom was waiting watching Suits on Netflix. How was your date, honey?

Great mom, we really missed each other.

Not too much I hope!

I knew what she meant. My virtue is still intact, Mom.

Good, I am glad you found a nice boy.

I'm really tired mom, I am going to bed.

Sleep well, baby girl. We have a long day tomorrow.

I will, Mom. I kissed her goodnight, went upstairs, did my ritual, and went to bed.

I was up at 7, Started the coffee, and did some laps in the pool. I had a lot on my mind that morning. John, college, Mom and Dad, and, of course, house hunting.

I was 15 laps in when Mom came downstairs; she was smiling. She came outside and watched as I did my laps. I kept stealing glances at Mom.

She looked very happy. Dad came out with coffee in hand. He kissed her cheek and said something that made her smile a bit brighter.

I was exhausted after 22 laps. A week with no exercise and I was feeling it. I got out, dried off, and started stretching again.

How many laps did you do, sweetie?

Asked Mom 22! I usually do about 30.

You have good form kiddo, said Dan.

Thanks, Dad! He smiled at me. Give me a couple of minutes, and I'll make us breakfast, I said.

No need said Dan; we are going to meet the realtor at 10 am. I thought maybe we could grab breakfast somewhere first.

I know a great diner! I said.

Sounds good let's get dressed. Mom said

I put on my jeans and sneakers and purple cashmere sweater. I did my makeup very lightly. Aunt V drove, and we went to Vickie's diner. We had a great breakfast.

The Belgian waffle was great. Aunt V insisted I eat. She said I looked better but I was still a little lean.

Mom agreed with her.

Dad never said a word; he just ate his omelet.

We met with the realtor Maria Lopez. As soon as I saw her I knew she looked familiar. When we sat at her desk I saw Anita's cheer pictures.

She looked at me and smiled.

You're Rianna! You cheer with my daughter Anita.

Yes, I am. We also sit next to each other in Spanish class, I said with a smile.

Ms Lopez, this is my mom, Brenda, and my father, Dan, and this is my Aunt Vanessa.

It's very nice to finally meet you. How can I help you today?

We would like to look at homes. Preferably in the Meadows Country Club subdivision, if possible. My Mom said.

We have 5 homes available and one is a fixer-upper.

A fixer-upper? Asked Dad.

Yes, it's a 5 bedroom 5 and a half bath, and it has a maid's suite.

Does it have a pool? I asked.

Yes with an attached hot tub.

Can you define fixer-upper? Dad asked.

The house was in the middle of an interior remodel when the house fell into foreclosure. It's a bit rough inside. The interior needs moldings, paint, and electrical fixtures, and flooring. The plumbing, HVAC system, and electrical. Everything is inspected and operational.

Can we look at all of them, starting with this one? Mom pointed at a finished 4 bedroom.

We loaded up in Maria's Denali and we headed out. The 4 bedroom was nice but a little small for us. Mom and I wanted more room for everyone to visit.

Dan liked it but he agreed we needed a bigger place too. The next place was a different floor plan and 5 bedrooms, 5 and a half baths, and no pool. It wasn't bad, but Dad pointed out the lack of maintenance. The wiring was older, and it needed a new roof.

The next two were bigger homes, 6 and 7-bedroom homes. While they were beautiful, they were too high in price. When we got to the fifth house, it was almost an exact match to Aunt V's place. There was another realtor there putting up a sign that said sale pending.

We finally made it to the fixer-upper. It was stucco on the outside instead of brick. It was easy to see the roof, windows, and outside were all redone. It looked new outside.

We walked inside; the kitchen had newer cabinets, countertops, a sink, and appliances. The kitchen was the only room that was painted. There was no flooring in the house at all. Dan pointed out that all the drywall was sanded and primer.

Dan pointed out the house needed ceiling fans, electrical outlets, and light switches. The bathrooms needed new fixtures and faucets. He pointed out the Jacuzzi tubs were installed, but the showers all needed to be finished. The closest doors and light fixtures all need to be installed.

This place needs a lot of work, I said.

It sure does. says Aunt V. My mom was shaking her head.

How long has this house been for sale? Asked Dan. Almost a year.

Who's selling it? Dad asked.

The bank owns it currently. What is the asking price? It was just reduced to 700 thousand.

That's not much of a reduction, said Dan. The other homes were between 800 and one million.
This house needs a lot more than 75 thousand dollars worth of work to get the occupancy permit. Dad stated.

Maria said let me show you the patio. We went outside as Dan went down to the basement.

Knowing Dan, or Dad, as I call him, he's inspecting everything. I know he's very handy around the school, especially the salon and trailer.

Mom, Aunt V, and I said little as Maria pointed out the new outdoor kitchen and the small two-stall changing room for the pool.

I could see Mom and Aunt V in serious thoughts about this place.

I wanted it. It was exactly like Aunt V's place, with a couple more bells and whistles. The bathrooms all had new Jacuzzi tubs which I love.

I knew Dad could finish it but it would take time and a lot of work. The question is, does Dad want to do it? It's a lot to ask of my soon-to-be father. I know I will do whatever is needed to get this place, I love it. It's a fixer-upper just like me. This home deserves a second chance too! Like me, this place just needs some love.

We went back inside and Dad was checking the appliances and the cabinets. He was looking things over closely.

What do you think sir? Asked Maria.

I need a few minutes with my family, please.

Sure, sir, I'll be outside.

Thank you, Maria.

Well, Dan? Mom asked.

Here's the deal ladies. All the homes we looked at are less than 15 years old. This one needs a lot of love, but most of what it needs I can do, but it needs a lot of it. Before we make any decisions or an offer, we need to do a couple of things.

First thing we need a home inspection. From what I can see, this place has been upgraded for mechanical, electrical, and new Internet wiring. The basement has many new fixtures for most of the home.

The bad news isn't that bad. In the home's present condition, you ladies can decorate it and paint it any way you want, but it's a lot of work.

We can look into other homes too. I know it needs work but I like this place if we can get it for the right price, said Dad.

Dad?

Yes, honey!

If my opinion means anything here, I love this place. Whatever you need me to do I will do. I said.

I love it said mom but it does need a lot of work. How much will it take to fix it?

If we hire out everything about one hundred thousand. If we do some or most of it can cost under 75 thousand dollars.

What do you think the fair price is? Asked Aunt V.

That's the big question, isn't it? This house has been foreclosed on and has been sitting on the market for a year. Dan stated.

What do you want to do Dan? Asked my Mom.

If you ladies like, I'd like to make a low-ball offer on this place, I can fix it, all of it. I am going to need some help.

I'm in I said.

I'm in too said Mom.

V? Mom asked

I'm in!

How much should we offer? Mom asked.

It's your money and your home, Brenda. How much do you want to spend?

I was thinking 800 thousand in total.

Okay, I am going to offer much less to start. Just follow my lead. Dad said.

Let's talk to her. Mom said.

Maria! Dad called for her.

Yes.

We would like to make an offer on this home under a couple of conditions. We need to do a full home inspection and have a county inspector assess the structure of the building requirements for occupy permits and any issues with permits. We also need to see the property tax codes.

I can have the house ready for inspection when you're ready. As for the rest of it, I can have the paperwork ready tomorrow. This should give you time to think about it. Maria said.

That's very helpful said Dad.

What is your tentative offer?

475 thousand.

This house is worth a lot more than that, said Maria.

Maybe? Said Dad, but if there are any mold issues or additional problems, is the bank going to be interested in fixing it or letting it sit for another 6 months or a year? The property taxes still have to be paid. Dan said.

The last offer the bank had was more and the bank rejected it.

How long ago? Dad asked.

About a month ago. I walked this neighborhood on and off for almost 7 months. The last time I saw anyone in the house was over two months ago.

I stayed quiet as Dad was dealing with Maria. Maria pulled out an offer sheet. Dan wrote down everything he stated earlier, Mom added a couple of details, and Mom filled out the amount and signed the offer; Maria signed it, and Aunt V witnessed it.

We got back in Maria's SUV and headed back to the office. Maria called the building inspector's office, and they agreed to inspect it on January 3rd. Maria also called the bank and told them about the offer. They asked to have the offer faxed over that day.

Aunt V stepped outside. She was on the phone for a few minutes. She came in; Maria, can we have a home inspection on January 2nd?

Sure, come by, and I will give you the keys.

Thank you. Said Aunt V.

It was very nice meeting you all, said Maria.

Yes, It was nice meeting you. Maybe we'll see each other at some games next year said my Mom with a genuine smile.

Sooner I hope! We're cheerleading parents! We have to stick together, said Maria.

My Mom smiled.

We got into the Escalade. Aunt V asked where to go.

Shopping! Said Dad.

Where at? Asked Mom.

Home Depot to start. If we can get this place it will be handy to have an idea how much materials are going to cost.

Mom and Aunt V wore heels and were rolling their eyes a bit.

I giggled. What's so funny? Asked mom.

Dad and I are the only ones that wore sensible shoes today.

Dad and I laughed a bit.

It won't be that bad, said Dad.

Besides, we are just getting an idea of the cost and your wants. The best thing about this shopping trip is you can change your mind and it won't cost a thing. Dad said.

Aunt V took us to Home Depot. Dad had a layout of the whole house with all the specifications and measurements he got from Maria.

We separated; he and Mom went to shop for moldings and flooring. Aunt V and I went to shop for blinds, paint, and interior doors.

I discovered a lot of things today. First, my taste in colors was a lot different than it was this past spring. Second was how much more feminine my taste was interior design.

They had a computer there that you could design your room with. I started with my room first. I decided on a lighter shade of purple, white trim with a single wall of pink. I added the same mirror doors that were in my current room. Aunt V was impressed.

I designed the living room, den, and the other bedrooms. I did all the rooms in different colors. I did the master bedroom in cobalt blue. I did the dining room in eggshell white with a red carpet. I tried to keep most of the colors unisex and neutral.

The lady who ran the design section, Lucy said I had an eye for color.

I chose room-darkening cellulose blinds for the windows. I chose a couple of nice vanities for the bathrooms with countertop sinks.

Lucy punched up an estimated cost for my selections and saved it for a later date. Lucy said to make sure to come in at least two weeks early to order just in case everything wasn't in stock.

We met up with Mom and Dad and they showed us their selections. Most of their choices match many of ours. Dad was impressed with my choices.

He adjusted a few things but not in a way that caused an argument. Mom wanted to go furniture shopping next.

Dad said to wait because we would probably change our minds as things got closer to moving in time.

Aunt V agreed with him.

I was getting more excited all the time. Now, all I had to do was figure out when I was going to do everything.