Sharlie Andrews 4 (aka part 9)
The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

#1: Sharlie Andrews 4 (aka part 9) Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 9:22 am


Part One - Schooldays I
Part Two - Schooldays II
Part Three - Uni Years I
Part Four - Uni Years II
Part Five - The CS & Sharlie I
Part Six - The CS and Sharlie II
Part Eight - The CS and Sharlie III
Part Nine - The CS and Sharlie IV
Part Ten - The CS and Sharlie V
Part Eleven - The CS and Sharlie VI

Snapshots
Snapshots 2

Hurrah, see in my uselessness how I forgot my pimdisk yesterday but now it is here and in my pootle so lo there is drabble. I think I might have a bit of the festive spirit in a benylin induced madness *g*

Have you put on weight?

I twisted anxiously to look down at Rebecca who was crouched on the floor, her mouth full of pins.

Ouch, I exclaimed as the pin in her hand stabbed my back.
Serves you right for wriggling, she retorted. I pulled a face in reply. Anyway, only you could put on weight in the run up to your wedding.
I haven’t, have I?
Well I’ve been working off your measurements at Easter and it’s definitely a bit of a squeeze in places.
I can’t have done
, I wailed. And before you even think it, I’m not. Rebecca shrugged. It feels okay, I mean it fits alright now.
She raised an eyebrow. It shouldn’t be a problem and I can alter it if necessary but I’d rather not. Honestly, Sharlie, we spend out whole lives waiting for you to put on a bit of weight and stop looking such a scrag and when you do you have to have a wedding dress fitted.
It’s not deliberate!

She stood up, removing the last pins from her mouth and patted my shoulder. I know it’s not. It’s just ironic.

It had been a long week since I had returned from my final term as a mistress at the Chalet School. It seemed that every moment since I had stepped down from the train in Liverpool I had heard nothing but wedding talk. As much as I wanted to get excited about it, I really didn’t want all the fuss that was accompanying it. Only the fact that we would never be forgiven by our families and friends was preventing Colin and I from running away for a quiet wedding with just the two of us. I knew there was a lot to look forward to but I just wished that there was an easier way to do it all.

How did the dress fitting go, Colin asked as we sat curled up together in the upstairs sitting room at Rupert and Aunt Jane’s.
I shrugged. Okay.
Is that all?
Do you think I’ve put on weight
, I asked as I stood up. He eyed me critically. Becca said I had, so did Kathie.
I’m not the best person to ask, sweetheart, I think you’re perfect however you look.
Soppy
, I grinned, falling back on to the settee and into his arms.
I can’t help it.
But seriously, do you think I have?

He gently stroked my cheek. Well, maybe a little, but does it matter?
People might talk…
Do they have reason to,
he asked anxiously.
I shook my head. Goodness no. I just don’t want people thinking that.
They’ll be disappointed if they do then
.
I grinned and kissed him. Are you sure we can’t just run away together?
We could but personally I don’t fancy ‘death by the Andrews sisters’.
We both laughed. It’s only one day and then we can get on with our lives and being us. That’s what being married is all about – right?
I snuggled up closer to him. Right. I could just do without all the fuss. I suppose things with Peggy… I broke off and bit my lip.
Shh.

He laid a finger over my lips and held me closer to him. I buried my face in his shoulder as he stroked my hair.

I’m sorry, I said at length. I didn’t mean to, only… Well it was only this time last year that we were all getting so excited by Peg’s wedding and then… I suppose I’m just a little scared.
Just because it happened to Peggy doesn’t mean it’s going to happen to us.
I know but it’s just that… I don’t know. I just wish she were still here.
Of course you do.


I had still heard nothing from Simon although Kitty had sent on snaps of the twins. I’d found the acceptance card that Peggy had sent in reply to the wedding invitation and had thrown it in the bin sure that the Harper family wouldn’t be in attendance.

**
I will link in previous parts at some point, bear with me the work network spurns me a lot *g*


Last edited by pim on Tue Feb 07, 2006 9:06 am; edited 53 times in total

 


#2:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 9:24 am


Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Sharlie is back Mexican Wave

It would be lovely if Simon and the twins came *hopes*

Thanks Pim Very Happy

Liz

 


#3:  Author: MaryRLocation: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 9:32 am


Lovely to see this back, Pim. Thank you - and good luck with the wedding arrangements, Sharlie. Laughing

And, Sharlie, please don't be afraid for the future.

 


#4:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 9:38 am


It's so nice to have Sharlie back! Very Happy
Have missed reading this each day.

 


#5:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 10:05 am


Yay - more Sharlie! Thank you pim!

 


#6:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 10:13 am


Thanks, Pim. It's great to have this back. I hope Simon will come to the wedding.

 


#7:  Author: pygmyLocation: glasgow PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 12:35 pm


Glad to have Sharlie back. Thanks Pim. Very Happy

 


#8:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 2:00 pm


Yay! I wondered if you had shirked the wedding, Pim. so glad you didn't.

 


#9:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 7:30 pm


Lovely to see this back, Pim.

 


#10:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 1:40 am


Great to see this back.

Thanks Pim

 


#11:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 2:59 am


Thanks, Pim.

Such sad memories for a wedding -- but of course, they'd be inescapable....

Still, this is going to be a happy year for Sharlie. Right? Of course, she may have to straighten things out for Simon et al....

 


#12:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 8:36 am


*rubs eyes* Morning!

I had wanted the run up to the wedding to go quickly but the days seemed to drag by. It was a sticky July and August promised to be worse. When August finally arrived I found myself more able to look forward to things since peoples’ arrivals were now within my grasp. Kathie, Lucy and Tish were all coming on the 12th, followed by Nancy on the 14th and then Bea, Jen and Will all on the 15th. Nicole, Lawrie and new baby Louisa would be arriving on the 18th and I could hardly wait since I hadn’t been allowed the time at the end of term to go to Nicole and Lawrie for a couple of days to see the new addition to the family. I had had to content myself with the snaps that Lawrie had sent and the excitable letter from Samantha on the subject of Louisa’s arrival. Anna, Julia and Trixie along with their respective families would also be arriving on the 18th and as far as I could make out everyone else was arriving on the 19th.

Bridesmaids dresses, said Elizabeth suddenly to me on the 11th.
What about them, I asked.
Don’t move or I’ll ruin this hem. I was undergoing yet another dress fitting. Are they all sorted?
Tish has hers, so does Lucy. Caroline, Sarah and Claire’s are at Harriet’s. Nicole’s bringing Samantha’s and Julia’s bringing Charlotte’s. Harriet’s also got Jack’s page boy suit and Trixie has Christopher’s. It’s all under control.

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow. Don’t you believe it; there’s still so much to do.
That’s why Kathie, Lucy and Tish are coming tomorrow. Lucy’s a dab hand at cake decorating so she can give Harri a hand.
Flowers, orders of service…
Eliz, it’s in hand,
I interrupted before she got into full flow. We’ll have more than enough pairs of hands – especially once Bea, Jen and Will arrive. In fact then Harri will be able to sit down and take it easy – she’s taking on far too much for someone in her condition.
You make it sound like a terrible disease. But you’re right, she is doing too much, although you know how she likes to keep busy – must be a nurse thing
.
I grinned. At least she’s a lot more relaxed this time around. She was far too worried with Daniel.
Everything’s easier the second time around. I think that’s all your hems done and I can resew them tonight once I’ve put the boys to bed.
I have to admit that I’m looking forward to wearing this when it’s not full of pins.
It’s your own fault. You’d put on weight when you got back and now you seem to have lost it all again.
It’s not intentional.
I’m sure it’s not. Becca had to keep taking in my dress before I got married; I didn’t seem to be able to stop losing it. I can’t believe it was five years ago.
Harri’s been married three.
And Becca for twelve.
It doesn’t seem like it.


Could it really have been twelve years since Rebecca had married Philip? I had been eighteen years old and still at school when she had walked down the aisle. I remembered how uncertain Harriet and I had been about her marrying Philip but how wrong we had been proved. I couldn’t argue with how happy they were together or how much they clearly adored their children. I remembered becoming an aunt for the first time; holding Sarah, that tiny bundle, in my arms and knowing that I would do anything to protect her. It was a feeling that hadn’t lessened each time I had been presented with a new niece or nephew and I knew it would still be there when Harriet’s new baby became number eight in October. I had often wondered what I would make of motherhood, hoping that I would have the same success as my sisters and friends. I wanted to teach my children to dream as da had done to me and to give them mam’s strength. I would never stop wondering how different it could all have been if they had survived the war.

 


#13:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 10:26 am


Lovely. Thak you pim.

 


#14:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 1:29 pm


Thanks, Pim. I am looking forward to the wedding and it will be good to finally see all of Sharlie's friends in the same place at the same time.

 


#15:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 1:57 pm


So beautifully bittersweet with the memories mixed in with hopes for the future.

Thanks Pim Kiss

Liz

 


#16:  Author: AlexLocation: Cambs, UK PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 4:04 pm


She's having seven bridemaids!!!!

Thanks, Pim.

 


#17:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 7:10 pm


Just as Liz say: bittersweet. But I suppose memories are inevitable when you look to the future.

I'm amazed at the diversity of Sharlie's friends. It should be interesting to see them all together

 


#18:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 7:59 pm


Sharlie's calm while the others seem to be panicking!

Thanks Pim.

 


#19:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 9:41 pm


Thank you Pimmy!!!!!

PLEASE let everything go well, and it be a happy day for Sharlie!

 


#20:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 9:56 pm


Thank you Pim. Seven bridesmaids...! Very Happy

 


#21:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 9:10 am


Alex wrote:
She's having seven bridemaids!!!!


And that was the revised list...!

Life suddenly became somewhat easier with the arrival of Kathie, Tish and Lucy. They did their best to take my mind off things by finding proceedings absolutely hilarious. I was forced to point out to Tish, however, that it would all be happening to her in twelve months time. I couldn’t quite imagine Tish getting even remotely stressed by her own wedding. Lucy suggested that she have a hockey stick archway for her to walk under and her bridesmaids in hockey kits. Tish seemed quite taken with the suggestion until Lucy pointed out that as maid of honour she’d be expected to participate and should that come to be the case then Tish would have to find someone else to take on the job. Kathie watched proceedings with an almost detached air but it wasn’t a worrying thing anymore; she had stopped trying to be the centre of attention to make people remember her.

I do feel better for it, she confessed when I mentioned it the day after they had arrived. It’s so much easier just being me and not having to put on an act all the time.
You look better for it.
I can’t wait to see Nancy again. It’s been too long since our holiday.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder
, I teased.
Sod that, I want to be with her all the time.
She’ll be here tomorrow.
In around eighteen hours in fact.
I laughed. Very precise.
There are certain occasions when it’s called for and she’s one of them.


The afternoon of the 15th I headed into Liverpool to meet Bea, Jen and Will from the train. It had taken a lot of convincing and pleading to be allowed to do so and even then on the promise that we would go straight to the shop and get Colin to drive us back to Aunt Jane and Rupert’s. I stood impatiently on the platform at Lime Street station as I had done so often before, craning my neck to try and see the approaching train. It was reported to be on time but I couldn’t help glancing at the clock every few seconds. It didn’t seem like four years since I had made my way to America and Yale. The train pulled in without me realising it to begin with, so lost in my thoughts and idle daydreams of Yale. As the crowds descended from the train and began to mill around me I began to desperately scan the crowds in search of familiar faces.

There she is! Sharlie!

A marked American accent that I instantly recognised as Will’s floated through the crowd and I found myself descended upon by Bea, Will and Jen.

She still looks the same, remarked Will once our initial greetings were over.
No she doesn’t, retorted Bea. Her hair’s shorter for a start.
I had it cut after the accident; I’ve only been growing it this last year or so
, I explained.
She looks happier, said Jen suddenly. So when do we get to meet the man who made you run away to America and is now making you look like the cat that got the cream?
I smiled. Very soon, the shop’s just round the corner and we have to go there to get a lift back to my Aunt’s. I’m on a short leash you know; I’ve only been allowed out for the minimum respite period.
Lots to do
, asked Bea.
I swear my sisters are making jobs up, I sighed.
Well we’re now so don’t you worry, honey, said Will, tucking her arm through mine as we headed out of the station.

 


#22:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 9:39 am


It's lovely that all of Sharlie's friends are turning up to support her! Very Happy

 


#23:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 10:27 am


Lovely to see alll her friends together and supporting her.

Thank you pim.

 


#24:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 1:11 pm


Glad they're all getting together and will be there for Sharlie's wedding Very Happy

Thanks Pim

Liz

 


#25:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 3:07 pm


Love the comment about her sisters making up jobs! Laughing

Thanks Pim.

 


#26:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 3:11 pm


Thanks, Pim. I liked the suggestion about the hockey sticks for Tish's wedding and it's nice to see Bea, Will and Jen again after all these years. Where is everyone meant to be staying or is that poetic licence? Laughing

 


#27:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 8:13 pm


This is lovely Pim. (But can you just reassure me on one thing please? Is Georgia safely confined? Or is she likely to get her hands on the narrative?)

 


#28:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 10:48 pm


This is getting georgeouser and georgeouser!!

Thanks Pim!

 


#29:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 8:46 am


Chair wrote:
Where is everyone meant to be staying or is that poetic licence? Laughing


Well Elizabeth, Harriet and Aunt Jane all have plenty of spare room, but I think the houses may be a bit on the elastic side (a little like a doctor's car) Wink

Oh and Vikki, G is safely locked in the store cupboard at work chewing through the wires of the dead pootles Laughing


Having found the days dragging on it all suddenly changed and before I knew it the wedding was the next day. I was duly collected from Aunt Jane’s after lunch and taken to Elizabeth’s where we would leave from in the morning. It had been a long discussion as to where I would be leaving from. Aunt Jane’s had been instantly ruled out since Colin would be leaving from there and we had been told that under no circumstances were we to spend the night before under the same roof. Rebecca had been my first choice but she had vetoed it saying that there wasn’t enough space at hers and Philip’s and I had had to agree. I hadn’t wanted to put any unnecessary extra strain on Harriet so we had logically concluded that I should leave from Elizabeth’s. Tish, Lucy, Kathie, Nancy and Trixie, complete with family were all staying as well. We spent the afternoon dealing with last minute minor panics and alterations until dinner after which I had declared that we would do nothing more until the morning.

I would like to propose a toast, I said after dinner. We had congregated in Elizabeth’s sitting room whilst she was putting Peter and Mark to bed. Firstly to the incorrigible Kathie Ferrars without whom I wouldn’t be here today because I would never have even noticed the display in the window of Graham’s. Secondly to Lucy and Tish who never fail to call me an idiot when I am one and never tell me anything but the absolute truth. Thirdly to Trixie who managed to share a room with me for two whole years through all my early trials and tribulations in love. And finally to Nancy for being so laid back that she makes you wonder what all the stress is about. In absentia I am also proposing a toast to Nicole, Tash, Lily Beth, Biddy and everyone else at the Chalet School just for being there and being wonderful. And very finally to those who should be here but… but have gone before us – Annie and Peggy. To friends and absent friends. We raised our glasses with a murmur.
I have another to make, announced Tish. I would like to propose a toast to Sharlie, I blushed. Don’t do that! Sharlie, you were handed to my care on Exeter station when we were eleven years old on your first day at St Monica’s and we’ve been friends ever since. There were times when we drifted a little but, in spite of that, you have always been there for each and every one of us. I couldn’t have asked for a better friend. To Sharlie – the proof of dreams.

I couldn’t help myself as I promptly burst into tears, finding myself swamped by the caring arms of my friends.

What on earth’s going on, exclaimed Elizabeth from the doorway. I disentangled myself from the others and wiped my eyes on my sleeve. What are you crying about?
I don’t know. I’m just… happy
.
She reached for my hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. Sentimental old fool, I’m sure I never got like this.
You did so, I retorted. She smiled serenely and squashed herself between Lucy and I on the sofa. I can’t believe I’m getting married tomorrow; it doesn’t seem real. I’m sure this isn’t meant to happen to people like me.
Elizabeth sighed and shook her head. We can always ring up Colin and ask him to retract his proposal.
Don’t you dare,
I shrieked as everyone laughed at me. Just let me have my doubts now because I know that tomorrow morning I won’t have a single one.

 


#30:  Author: MaryRLocation: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 9:31 am


What a lovely, tender, yet amusing little scene.

Thanks, pim

 


#31:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 10:13 am


I think Mary has said it all. Thank you pim that was lovely.

 


#32:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 11:22 am


Definitely gorgeous! Very Happy

 


#33:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 12:49 pm


Oh how lovely!

And how nice of Sharlie to remember all her friends - especially Annie and Peggy. It's lovely that the great majority of her friends could be there for her though.

 


#34:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 1:55 pm


What wonderful toasts

Thanks Pim

Liz

 


#35:  Author: SquirrelLocation: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 2:48 pm


That was lovely Pim - so glad to see her have such a good time with her friends the night before. Looking forwards to the wedding itself as well.

 


#36:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 5:34 pm


Thank you Pim! Beautiful post sweetie.

(and good to know Georgia is safely confined....)

 


#37:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 5:47 pm


Thanks, Pim. Thanks for explaining about where everyone was staying and that was a lovely toast.

 


#38:  Author: GeorgiaLocation: my imagination PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 5:50 pm


pim wrote:


Oh and Vikki, G is safely locked in the store cupboard at work chewing through the wires of the dead pootles Laughing


That's what she thinks Twisted Evil

Mwaahahahahahaaaaaaa!

 


#39:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 6:00 pm


Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeelp!!!

 


#40:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 7:14 pm


Lovely post - thanks Pim,.

 


#41:  Author: JoWLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sat Nov 26, 2005 10:16 am


This is lovely. We've waited so long for this wedding. I can hardly wait now it's so nearly here. I feel like it's all my friends who are gathered together and I can't quite work out why I'm not there too!

 


#42:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 9:02 am


Georgiana and Victoria! Rolling Eyes

It was late when we eventually made our way to bed and I lay awake staring at the ceiling and listening to Nancy’s steady breathing. In the darkness I could make out the outline of my wedding dress hanging on the wardrobe door and I felt a little flutter of nerves and excitement. Realising that I wouldn’t sleep for a little while longer yet I reached for my dressing gown and slippers hoping that the gentle creak of the door hadn’t woken Nancy. I crept downstairs and out into the back garden where I settled on one of the garden chairs and looked up into a perfectly clear, black velvety night that seemed to wrap itself around me like a blanket. I sat there for a while, tracing the constellations with my finger, trying to remember their names. I didn’t realise I was murmuring to myself until I heard a window open upstairs.

It’s a bit late for star gazing, isn’t it, I heard Lucy whisper.
I turned and looked up. It’s never too late for star gazing. Besides, I can’t sleep.
You need your beauty sleep or you’ll be a wreck tomorrow. Aren’t you cold out there anyway?
Not really.
Come on in. I’ll make you cocoa and see if that helps.


I reluctantly got up and left the stars. Lucy and I sat up for a further hour over cocoa until she declared that she was going to bed. Still not feeling tired I reached for the copy of Little Women that someone had abandoned on the work top and engrossed myself in it. Elizabeth found me at five when she came down to feed Mark, slumped over the kitchen table with my head in my arms and the book just out of my hand. I groggily made my way back to bed where I slept undisturbed for another two and a half hours.

Today’s the day!

I was sharply awoken at 7.30 by Nancy’s chirpy cry as she flung the curtains open, allowing the sunlight to stream in. I rolled over and shielded my eyes from the light.

You’ve got perfect weather for it, blue skies, sunshine and not a cloud in sight. I can’t believe I’ve had to wake you up; I thought you’d have been up for hours by now.

Anything I was going to say in reply was lost as Elizabeth waltzed in carrying a breakfast tray which she proceeded to place in my lap.

Thought I’d spoil you, she said as I looked at the toast and scrambled eggs, feeling my stomach flip over. How’s the blushing bride this morning?

I pushed the tray aside as a sudden wave of nausea hit me and I ran to the bathroom to be sick.

Hardly the best time for that, remarked Elizabeth dryly as she ran a cool sponge over my face.
Must be nerves, I muttered, rubbing my stomach gingerly. Although it would be just my luck to come down with something today of all days.
She laughed and wrapped a reassuring arm around my shoulders. You’ll be fine. Today is going to be perfect. I smiled weakly. Don’t suppose you much fancy breakfast now? I shook my head. I’ll get you a cup of tea, run yourself a bath and have a quick wash whilst I’m gone.

I pulled myself to my feet, my legs shaking and weak as I turned on the taps, peeled off my nightdress and sank into the bath. Today was going to be the most perfect day of my life.

 


#43:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 10:30 am


I hope everything goes to plan for Sharlie and Colin!

 


#44:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 11:01 am


She's being sick in the morning? Do I just have a nasty suspcicious mind coupled with all the other things that have been happening?

Thanks Pim

 


#45:  Author: Mrs RedbootsLocation: London, UK PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 11:35 am


francesn wrote:
She's being sick in the morning? Do I just have a nasty suspcicious mind coupled with all the other things that have been happening?
If you do, then so do I, as I thought that, too! Surprised

 


#46:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 12:30 pm


Oooooh! Do you think it's one of those weird pregnancies you hear about where the woman doesn't realise she's pregnant because somehow she keeps having periods, and doesn't put weight on etc? Maybe Sharlie will go into labour halfway down the aisle? Twisted Evil

 


#47:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 12:47 pm


pim wrote:
Today was going to be the most perfect day of my life.

I do hope so - but then I also hope the days that follow will be even perfecter Very Happy

Thanks Pim

Liz

 


#48:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 3:14 pm


Thank you pim. Hope it all goes smoothly for Sharlie's big day!

 


#49:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 3:16 pm


Thanks, Pim. I really hope Sharlie feels better when it comes to the actual wedding.

 


#50:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 7:51 pm


Hadn't she put on weight though earlier? But if that's so - WHEN? She's been up a mountain in Switzerland for months!

Thanks Pim.

 


#51:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 11:00 pm


Most interesting! I'm sure the rest of the day will be wonderful!

 


#52:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 9:04 am


Suddenly mindful of the others who would be waiting for the bathroom, I climbed out of the bath and wrapped myself in one of Elizabeth’s huge fluffy towels and ran down the landing to my room. I glanced at my wrist to check the time only to realise that I had left my wrist watch in the bathroom. With a sigh at my stupidity I reached into my handbag for da’s pocket watch. It was a little after eight giving me two and a half hours to get ready. I caught my reflection in the mirror and for a split second my six year old self stared back at me – the sallow complexion, the lank, lifeless dark hair. I had long since lost both of those as a result of living near the sea and then in the mountains. I was still small, having not grown since the age of fourteen and I was still too thin, although not quite as worryingly thin as I had been as a child. I stood in front of the mirror in my underwear hoping that my dress would fit as perfectly as it had done the previous day. I managed to pull on my new stockings without snagging them, wriggled my slip over my head and grabbed my dressing gown and slippers and ran down the stairs to the kitchen.

In the time it had taken me to have a bath the house had descended into chaos. Rebecca, Harriet and Caroline had arrived with Sarah and Claire whilst Nicole and Julia were in the process of dropping Samantha and Charlotte off. I was riotously greeted by Sarah, Claire, Samantha and Charlotte but only had a few moments with Nicole and Julia before they slipped away.

Where’s Philip and Jack, I asked Rebecca anxiously.
On their way, she replied. Philip’s promised they’ll be here for half nine to make sure Jack scrubs up to standard. But you know Philip, he hates being around the morning of the wedding.
Do you fancy some breakfast now
, Elizabeth asked, handing me a cup of tea. Nancy had your egg but I can do you some toast. I shook my head. Are you sure? I don’t want you fainting half way down the aisle because you skipped breakfast.
I’ll be fine, I’d just rather not risk it…
Have you been sick
, interrupted Rebecca.
I nodded and rubbed my stomach gingerly. Just the once, nerves, I think. She raised and eyebrow and smirked. I’m not, I retorted indignantly. I glared as the three of them began giggling. I’m going upstairs.
Take these with you
. Elizabeth shoved some envelopes into my hand. We’ll be up in a bit, but give us a yell if your appetite makes an appearance.
I nodded and shot a final glare at Rebecca who was still giggling. You want to know how I know I’m not? Because abstinence makes to heart grow fonder!
Charlotte Andrews,
Rebecca began as I turned on my heel and fled from the kitchen, chuckling to myself.

It was only as I collapsed on the bed that I remembered I had left my tea on the kitchen table and I had no particular desire to go back for it. I sighed and hoped that someone would bring me one in a while. I turned my attentions to the envelopes that Elizabeth had pushed into my hand and opened the first one.

 


#53:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 9:55 am


Love the teasing! And of course that's how she knows!

Thank you pimmy!

 


#54:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 11:00 am


Thanks, Pim. I wonder what will be in the envelopes?

 


#55:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 11:41 am


Yes who has written to Sharlie?
Evidently it isn't just CBBers whose mind is in the gutter. Wink

 


#56:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 1:39 pm


*slips upstairs with a cup of tea for Sharlie*

*sneaks a preview of the dress in the process Wink*

Thanks Pim Very Happy

Liz

 


#57:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 3:33 pm


Because I'm in so much shock about being called competent...


Dear Sharlie,

Firstly I want to apologise for being unable to make it over for your wedding. However, Esther and Sara have convinced me to make a visit to London for Christmas so I do hope that you and Colin will be able to make it down for a couple of days. It’s been four years since your trip to New York you know, but now you have more time on your hands I trust that you’ll be able to make a visit soon.

Secondly, I want to wish you and Colin all the best for your future together. I know you’ll be very happy with him; it was clear when you visited me in New York that you had made a grave mistake in breaking off your initial engagement. It is very hard to find ‘the one’ and I know that you have done. Take care of yourself and Colin, and may you never know anything but happiness. Keep reaching for the sky, Sharlie.

Love, Rebekka.

Dear Charlotte.

I was amazed some months ago to read an article in The Times on Holocaust remembrance. It wasn’t the subject that amazed me but one of the accompanying photographs: Robert Stewart and Charlotte Andrews. Barbara Newton and I knew that first day you started at the factory school that you would go on to do something special. And you have. A few weeks later a forthcoming marriage was announced between Charlotte Louise Andrews and Colin Rupert Graham so here I am writing to congratulate you, not only on your marriage but on everything that you have achieved. I knew that you would go far but how far would depend on you. I hope that you are proud of everything you have achieved, Charlotte, you should be, you have done so much. I am incredibly proud of you, and so too would Barbara Newton have been, sadly she passed on two years ago.

I wish you all the best for the future and maybe now you will be based in Liverpool that you will come and visit, your sisters too.

With warm regards and all best wishes, Constance Hathersage.

Dear Charlotte,

Just a short note to offer my congratulations on your forthcoming marriage. It seems like only yesterday that you stood in my study, eleven years old, and vowing to live up to your scholarship. I have followed your career and read both book with which you helped Professor Stewart and I sincerely congratulate you on all you have achieved. The Chalet School was lucky to have you as a mistress; you always had the makings of an exceptional teacher.

And so on to marriage for which I offer the most hearty congratulations. I have every confidence that it will be your next success.

With best wishes, Irene Fairacre.

Dear Sharlie,

If thou should love me, let it be for nought
Except for love’s sake only. Do not say
“I love her smile – her look – her way
Of speaking gently – for a trick of thought
That falls in well with mine and certainly brought
A sense of pleasant ease on such a day.” –
For these things in themselves, beloved, may
Be changed, or for thee, - and love, so wrought,
May be unwrought so. Neither love me for
Thine own dear pity’s wiping my cheeks dry –
A creature might forget to weep, who bore
Thy comfort long, and lose thy love thereby!
But love me for love’s sake, that ever more
Thou mayst love on, through love’s eternity.

(Elizabeth Barrett Browning)


I love you because of, not in spite of.

All my love, Colin.

I was brought back to reality by a knock on the door followed by Elizabeth.

You okay? You look like you’ve been crying.
I glanced up at her. I’m just so happy.

 


#58:  Author: AliceLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 4:51 pm


That's twice today I've come online just after you've posted Pim. That was lovely, thank you.

 


#59:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 5:03 pm


Thank you Pim!!! The letters were so lovely!

 


#60:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 6:01 pm


Beautiful letters - thank you Pim Kiss

Liz

 


#61:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 6:53 pm


Thanks, Pim. Those letters were lovely.

 


#62:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 7:51 pm


Awwwww how lovely Pimmy.

Thank you very very much

 


#63:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 8:03 pm


Wonderful posts Pim - how lovely that her old school treachers should take the trouble to write and congratulate her, as for Colin - absolutely perfect poem, Elizabeth Barrett Browning was a genius.

Thank you

 


#64:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 10:24 pm


Thank you Pim, that was a beautiful series of links with her past.

 


#65:  Author: BethCLocation: Worcester, UK PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 12:45 am


Thank you, Pim - lovely to read the letters.

 


#66:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 9:28 am


Why oh why is it not time to go home yet?

Two hours later we were ready to go. I kept catching my reflection in the mirror, not quite able to believe what was happening, not even sure it was my reflection.

Think you’re ready, announced Elizabeth, carefully removing the final pin from my dress. I made a move to sit down. What are you doing?
Sitting down
, I replied calmly. I need to put my shoes on.
You’ll crease your dress! No, you’ll have to hold it up and wobble whilst I put them on for you.
We both began giggling as I tried to remain upright on one leg. This is hopeless, groaned Elizabeth as the door opened and Rebecca came in.
What on earth are you doing?
Putting my shoes on
, I began before catching Elizabeth’s eye and we both set off giggling again.
Rebecca glared at us both. Sharlie come over here and hold on to the dresser, I’ll hold the dress whilst Eliz puts on your shoes.

Under Rebecca’s direction we managed to restrain ourselves long enough to put my shoes on.

The bridesmaids and page boy are ready to go, Rebecca said in a bid to stop us giggling. Ready to go Eliz? Elizabeth pulled herself together and nodded. Tish wants a quick word and Philip’s waiting downstairs for you both. I nodded. See you at the church, she whispered, lightly kissing my cheek.

Elizabeth followed suit and then they both left, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I had no time to dwell on anything as Tish crashed in carrying my bouquet and broke them.

You look… she began. Perfect, absolutely perfect. I’d marry you. I laughed. Nervous?
A little, I shouldn’t be but I am.
Guess it’s only natural.
This is natural, me marrying Colin.
That as well.
I can’t believe I’m finally here, after everything…

She reached for my hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. Like you say, natural, meant to be, whatever you want to call it. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you happier and I’ve known you a very long time.
Nineteen years in September.
That’s more than half our lives!
I know.
You know, Sharlie, I was a bit put out to be saddled with you on your first day. I didn’t want the responsibility of looking after a new girl – it got in the way of me having fun. But I’m glad you were shoved into my charge though. I couldn’t have asked for a better friend
.
I smiled. Neither could I. Thank you for always being there and always being able to make me laugh.
I’m going to carry on making you laugh – you know what I’m like about getting emotional and teary.
I laughed. See.
I grinned. Bet you’ll be emotional and teary when you and Peter get married next summer.
I will not,
she exclaimed indignantly.
I reached for da’s pocket watch to check the time. We should go downstairs, the car will be here any minute.
She held out my bouquet to me and I took it and then she held out her hand which I took. I’m so proud of you Sharlie.

We stood outside the church a couple of minutes before eleven, Rebecca ushering the bridesmaids into the right places and then she was gone. Philip slipped his arm though mine and gave me a grin; I smiled back.

Ready to go, Sharlie girl, he asked. I nodded in reply. Time for me to give away the last of the Andrews sisters then.

We both laughed and then the familiar strains of the bridal march rang out and I took my final steps as Charlotte Andrews.

**
There'll be another post later cos I'm on A/L for the rest of the week and the next post is a nice place to leave it.

 


#67:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 10:06 am


Thank you pim. The leters were lovely and then to see the last preperations with the laughter and fun and pride, wonderful!

 


#68:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 11:55 am


Thanks Pim Very Happy
Tish is such a lovely friend!

 


#69:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 1:01 pm


Thanks, Pim. It's good that Tish was honest - I would never have guessed that she was put out that day 19 years ago. I am really looking forward to the next post.

 


#70:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 1:40 pm


*getting all emotional and teary*

Thanks Pim Very Happy

Liz

 


#71:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 3:39 pm


For the service I have done a bit of stealing from a stray copy of 'The Methodist Service Book' that my parents have larking about their house from about 20 years ago. The Song of Solomon passage was read at my friend's wedding in September and I liked it so I borrowed it.

The church was full, a sea of faces that I could barely take in. The Chalet School contingent came first with most of the mistresses in attendance. I quickly singled out Emily, Davida and Rosalind’s grinning faces and Miss Annersley with a smile playing about her lips. In front of them I spied Nancy and Kathie surreptitiously reach for each other’s hands and I could only hope that one day they would be able to show their love in the same way that Colin and I could. It was then that I noticed something in Kathie’s arms, a baby, and I realised that Simon was sitting beside her. He gave me a sad smile but I knew then that everything was forgotten between us. In the next row were friends I had made through my academic work as I saw Esther fish for her handkerchief. Then came my university friends who had seen my through so much: Trixie with tears streaming down her face, Tash looking uncomfortably pregnant and Lily Beth with a secret smile. Finally my sisters, my constant rocks and support. And only then did I see Colin as we came to a stop at the front of the church. As he moved the veil back from my face those last tiny niggling doubts vanished. Hello gorgeous, he mouthed and I smiled and then nothing else around us mattered as I heard the minister begin the service with the words I had heard so often.

We are gathered here in the presence of God to witness the marriage of Colin and Charlotte, to support them with our prayers and to share their joy.

I found myself holding my breath as he made the legal declaration, hoping that nobody would take it upon themselves to leap up and object, I found myself doing the same as he put the question to Colin even though I knew it was foolish. Before I knew it I heard myself making the same declaration that I had heard so many before me make.

I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful impediment why I, Charlotte Louise Andrews, may not be joined in lawful matrimony to Colin Rupert Graham.

Then came the vows, Colin’s first before the minister turned to me, asking: Charlotte, will you take this man to be your lawful wedded husband, to live together according to the law of God in the holy estate of matrimony? Will you love him, honour and keep him, and forsaking all others, be faithful to him so long as you both shall live? There was no hesitation as I gave my reply. I do. We both smiled in relief at each other as Philip stepped forward to give me away and then Colin was sliding the wedding ring on to my finger, the simple gold band that had once been his mother’s.

I call upon these persons here present to witness that I, Charlotte, do take thee, Colin, to be my lawful wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish ‘til death do us part, according to God’s holy law and to this I pledge myself.

It wasn’t until I heard the words I therefore pronounce them to be husband and wife that it began to sink in. After all the years of waiting and our ups and downs we had finally made it and it just didn’t seem quite real. The rest of the service was a blur, unable to stop smiling as I tried to make some sense of it all. I thought back over the years, even in my wildest dreams I had never been quite able to imagine myself here but I knew that it was real. The service was suddenly over, Colin reached for my hand and we took our final steps together as Mr and Mrs Graham.

Place me like a seal over your heart,
Like a seal over your arm;
For love is strong as death,
Its jealousy unyielding as the grave.
It burns like blazing fire,
Like a mighty flame.
Many waters cannot quench love;
Rivers cannot wash it away.
If one were to give
All the wealth of his house for love,
It would be utterly scorned.

Song of Solomon 8: 6-7


***
I'm off on A/L until Monday now when I shall return avec a new pimdisk. Here seemed to be the best place to leave it until then. Have a good weekend mes amies!

 


#72:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 3:42 pm


Squee Sharlie married wedding Squee!

Thank you Pimmy Very Happy

 


#73:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 3:56 pm


Aw, how lovely. Thank you pim - enjoy the Christmas market!

 


#74:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 4:48 pm


Thanks, Pim. That ws lovely. Crying or Very sad They are married after all this time. What a lovely wedding. Crying or Very sad You wrote that scene in just the right way. Thank you so much.

 


#75:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 5:20 pm


Lovely post, so pleased that Sharlie has finally made it up the aisle, and it was great that Simon could make it.

 


#76:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 6:04 pm


Thank you thank you thank you Pim!
That was just PERFECT! And it was so lovely that Simon came with the babies.

Have a very shiny time at the xmas markets.

 


#77:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 7:46 pm


Really pleased that Simon was there.

*Tears in my eyes*

Thanks Pim.

 


#78:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 10:48 pm


Oh, lovely, lovely, lovely.... Very Happy

Thank you Pim.

 


#79:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Sat Dec 03, 2005 11:42 am


So lovely Very Happy *sniffs*

Thank you, pim - looking forward to reading all about Sharlie's married life Wink Kiss

 


#80:  Author: tanLocation: London via Newcastle Australia PostPosted: Sun Dec 04, 2005 7:31 pm


What a lovely day. Am looking forward to more Very Happy

 


#81:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 9:28 am


Am back from Germanyland avec Christmas tea so all is well avec the world.

We did it, Colin whispered to me, slipping his arm around my waist and drawing me into a hug as we stood on the steps of the church.
We really did, I grinned as I started laughing. I love you.
I love you too
, he replied, kissing me as a storm of confetti landed on our heads signifying that the guests were making their way out of the church.

We both began laughing again and barely stopped for the rest of the day. I was glad of it, having not wanted to spend the day dwelling on all the ‘what ifs’ that had clouded both our lives. The afternoon passed in a dream as I found myself surrounded by people from all walks of both our lives. It was the first time I had ever really taken in the number of friends that we both had. I knew some of Colin’s friends already but I had to wonder if I would ever remember all of the ones that I met over the course of the day. I couldn’t quite believe that I was here and several people volunteered to pinch me over the course of the afternoon as a reminder that it wasn’t a dream, this was real life.

I was only too glad when the time came for us to sit down for lunch and I could take the weight off my feet. I don’t remember eating lunch, however, it all passed in a blur of conversations, mostly carried out over my head as I sat lost in my thoughts. I was brought crashing back to reality on hearing Mike, the best man, rap his s***n against his glass to begin the speeches and introduced a nervous looking Philip to the guests. He stood up, clearing his throat as he did so.

Well, Sharlie girl, here we are in a place that a few years ago we never thought we would be. I can’t quite believe that I’ve just had the privilege to give away the last of the Andrews sisters. Colin, I congratulate you on your choice of wife although I do advise you to give as good as you get because we all know just how stubborn Sharlie can be. Take care of each other, you’re both very special to all of us. I wish you both only every happiness for the future.

Philip sat down, blushing furiously as Colin got to his feet and proposed a toast to Tish and the other bridesmaids before making way for Mike, the nerves written on his face as he fumbled in his jacket pocket for a crumpled piece of paper before grinning around the assembled guests.

I was going to make a speech that would do some quite significant damage to Colin’s reputation and dredge up a few tales that he’s probably conveniently forgotten to tell Sharlie… but then I thought that might be too cruel and decided that it would be best left to Sharlie to discover the murky delights of Colin’s past for herself… and there are many. Although I must admit that he’s been a somewhat changed man since Sharlie walked into his life and put some sort of a spell on him. Not that I’m not thrilled that he found someone crazy enough to take him on for life… but, well, to be serious, I shall leave Colin’s wilder exploits in the past where they belong and leave you with somebody else’s words.

May your mornings bring you joy and your evenings bring peace
May your troubles grow few as your blessings increase
May the saddest day of your future
Be no worse than the saddest day of your past
May your hands be forever clasped in friendship
And your hearts joined forever in love
Your lives are very special
God has touched you in many ways
May his blessing rest upon you
And fill all your coming days

(~Irish Blessing~)

 


#82:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 9:42 am


Aww bless.
Thanks Pim.

 


#83:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 10:10 am


Thanks, Pim. I really liked the speeches.

 


#84:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 10:35 am


Lovely speeches and a lovely day.

Thank you pim.

 


#85:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 11:02 am


Lovely, Pim. Ah yes, wedding speeches...

 


#86:  Author: SquirrelLocation: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 12:55 pm


That was lovely, though I'm slightly confused by the auto-censor, or am I the only one who has s***n - which I'm assuming to be cutlery of the kind you would use either for soup, pudding, or even stiring a hot drink rather than the item's name itself?

 


#87:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 3:59 pm


Thanks pim, vair luffly

and yup don't worry the auto-censor (ala squeenie) is playing with the word sp0on, as a very long time ago the auto-censor on the old board did not like it either! Rolling Eyes

 


#88:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 8:09 pm


I was also rather confused about the lack of spoonliness

But that doesn't detract from the story at all. Thank you Pim.

 


#89:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 8:16 pm


Lovely post - so pleased it's finally happened! Laughing

 


#90:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Tue Dec 06, 2005 9:12 am


Ahh spoons... Aussi, this post contains a line which was a challenge from Katie, see if you can spot it.

Twothly, crit in all ways, shapes and forms accepted here.


We left before the reception began to break up and clambered, laughing, into a taxi. A stunned Lucy caught my bouquet, although she would be insistent for some years that it was all Kathie’s fault. Colin and I were spending the night at a hotel before going on to Tish’s the following day.

It’s not quite the threshold, he said, unlocking the door of the hotel room.
Don’t carry me over it then, I whispered.
Why not?
Because I’d rather wait until we get back from Tish’s and then you can do it at our house
. I broke off and giggled. Our house, it doesn’t seem real.
It better had be otherwise it was a lot of money down the drain
.

He took my hand and led me into the room. For a few moments we stood in silence simply looking at each other.

I can’t get over how beautiful you look today.
Just today
, I teased and he tickled me gently in retaliation.
You know what I mean. I grinned. Today I am the happiest man alive.
Likewise, except I’m a woman, obviously.
I should hope so, otherwise I’ve just made a very grave mistake
. We both laughed. What do we do now then?
I shrugged and then looked purposefully over at the bed. What married couples do, I suppose, I suggested with a mischievous grin.
Lay on MacDuff, he whispered as he kissed me and we both collapsed across the bed. Did I ever tell you, he said between kisses, that you, Sharlie Graham, my wife, have a rather splendid bust?
I spluttered with laughter. I’ll take that as a compliment.
That’s exactly what it was.


It wasn’t the only compliment that got paid that night, although the others were somewhat more flattering.


I awoke early, around six, and for a few moments was unsure as to where I was until the sound of Colin’s steady breathing reminded me. I shook him awake.

Colin, Colin, I hissed.
Wha… Sharlie, he groaned, blinking and rubbing his eyes as he struggled to wake.
I was just checking.
Checking what?
That yesterday was real. I keep expecting to wake up and find it was all a dream or something.
If it was a dream then our bank balances will be happier this morning. Did you wake me just for that?
I felt a bit rude just staring at you while you were sleeping.
You never used to.

I shrugged. We never used to be married.
He grinned. No, we didn’t. He took my right hand and looked at the wedding band. We are now though.
I thought it would be different being married.
What would?
Everything, but it’s not. It’s all like it used to be except I’ve got an extra ring and we’ve got a piece of paper. I’m not disillusioned or disappointed or anything I just…
Shh…
he silenced me with a kiss. It doesn’t matter. I love you, you love me, that’s what matters with or without a piece of paper to prove it. What time is it?
Six.
We don’t need to be up for at least another two hours – we’re not meeting the others until ten
.
I raised an eyebrow. Is that a roundabout proposition?
No, that was ‘I’d like a little more sleep, please’
. I snuggled into his outstretched arm. I’m still the happiest man alive and that’s not going to change.
I love you,
I whispered, resting my head against his shoulder and falling fast asleep.

 


#91:  Author: KatieLocation: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Tue Dec 06, 2005 9:51 am


Ahh, thank you, mein Pim. Well done on shoehorning that in!

I may dig out the original reference when I get home, so others may see the genius of the entire passage!

 


#92:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Dec 06, 2005 10:21 am


Oh, very nice Pim! Very Happy

 


#93:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Dec 06, 2005 6:15 pm


Just caught up on this.

Beautiful wedding and a luffly start to their married life - long may it continue Very Happy

Thanks, Pim.

Liz

 


#94:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Dec 06, 2005 6:53 pm


Lovely Pim!

Now, was Katie's challenge line the magnificent bust one?

 


#95:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Dec 06, 2005 7:56 pm


Awww! That was lovely. Laughing

Thanks Pim.

 


#96:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Dec 06, 2005 8:15 pm


My guess would be the "splendid bust" too....Will we get to find out?

Thanks Pim. I'm so glad they're happy together

 


#97:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 12:39 am


Thanks, Pim. I'm glad that they are just loving one anothers' company.

 


#98:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 9:12 am


Bonus points for Vikki-gutter-brain (luff oo really!) and Fran Laughing Is Katie so obvious? The original ref was from some Rosamunde Pilcher book and amused us somewhat...

We spent ten days at Tish’s relaxing and getting over the chaos that had been the wedding before heading back to Liverpool to settle into our new house and prepare for the Mediterranean trip. Five bedrooms and a garden in suburbia was a far cry from the two up, two down in the back street of my childhood and there were times when I had to pinch myself to make sure it wasn’t a dream. On our return I stood on the doorstep and surveyed it all with a satisfied sigh. Colin promptly dropped the suitcases he was carrying in the middle of the path, dashed forward and scooped me up in his arms.

What are you doing, I asked with a giggle.
Carrying you over the threshold, Mrs Graham, he replied, fumbling in his pocket for the keys.
Call me that again.
What? Mrs Graham?
I giggled. What’s so funny about that?
Nothing, oh husband of mine, I just like it. Say it again.
Mrs Graham
. He pushed open the door with his knee and carried me indoors. Home sweet home.
Our home,
I whispered as he kissed me.
Can I put you down now?
I believe you have to carry me up to the bedroom…

He set me down with a bump. You’ve got a perfectly good set of legs, use them whilst I get the cases.

I giggled and stood up on my tiptoes, leaning in to kiss him before running off to explore the house.

September was an odd month; neither of us could settle knowing that we would be off come October. We made some progress on the house but resigned ourselves to the fact that the bigger things would have to wait until our return from Scotland. I didn’t have much time to be missing school but I did enjoy being near my sisters again. September brought the arrival of Tash and Josh’s first baby, Andrew Claude, and so we made plans to leave a day early in order to spend a night in London to pay them a visit.

Simon brought the twins to stay for a couple of days before we were due to leave. It was a chance for us to put the events surrounding Peggy’s funeral behind us and try and look to the future. It had been Kitty who had persuaded him to come to the wedding and I would always be grateful to her for it. Molly and Jonno, as the twins were to be known, were delightful babies but it still saddened me that they would never have the chance to know Peggy; it always would do. Even at such a young age, however, it was easy to see that Molly would grow up to be the spitting image of her mother.

Part of me was sorry to leave to go on the trip but once on the ferry to Calais I had to change my mind. In a way I was sorry that the ferry trip wasn’t to begin another term at the Chalet School but I only had to look at Colin to know that I had made the right decision.

Are you sure we’re going the right way, I asked as we left Calais behind, struggling to reconcile the map with the road signs.
Yup.
But we’re meant to be heading south, this is north!
I know, there’s a little detour I wanted to make…
What?
Not telling, it’s a surprise.

 


#99:  Author: KatieLocation: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 9:45 am


Well done on the reference chaps. Although I completely forgot to find the whole passage... Rolling Eyes

Oooh, where is he taking her?

 


#100:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 1:42 pm


To the school maybe?
Thanks Pim!

 


#101:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 1:55 pm


T'would have been my guess at the reference too! This is great, thank you pimbles...

 


#102:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 2:33 pm


Thanks, Pim. I wonder where Colin is taking Sharlie.

Is the Rosamund Pilcher book, 'Coming Home'? I love reading all her books and that is my favourite book.

 


#103:  Author: Elder in OntarioLocation: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 2:41 pm


Somewhere in the back of my mind lurks the thought that Sharlie's father died during the war and is buried in France. If I'm right, then I think I know where Colin is taking her before they head off for their holiday.

 


#104:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 3:47 pm


Here's where they're going:

Dunkirk, I asked in a voice barely a whisper as we arrived in the town. He nodded in reply but didn’t speak until we stopped outside a war cemetery that I knew only too well. Why are we here?
He looked me squarely in the eye. I thought it was time I was properly introduced to your father.
Oh Colin,
I breathed.
We don’t have to if…

I shook my head and we both stepped from the car. I reached for his hand and we made our way amongst the rows of crosses. I hadn’t been to Dunkirk since the time I had come with Kathie and it felt a little strange to be here with Colin. Eventually I stopped at one of the crosses.

Here he is, I whispered. This is da, da this is Colin. I wish… I broke off, swallowing the lump in my throat. Colin wrapped his arm around me and gently kissed the top of my head.
Don’t worry Mr Andrews, I’ll look after her.

Unable to help myself I burst into tears; Colin held me tightly until my sobs eventually subsided.

I’m sorry, I whispered.
Don’t be.
It was twenty years this year. Sometimes it seems like a whole lifetime and others…


I trailed off and we both stood in silent contemplation for a while.

Thank you, I said eventually.
What for?
Bringing me here.
I just thought…
It doesn’t matter. I don’t want a reason, the thought is enough.


He smiled and then kissed me softly before we pulled apart giggling.

It doesn’t feel right kissing you here, in front of him.
I smiled. Sorry da. I reached out to touch the edge of the cross. I wish we’d brought some flowers.
Colin unfastened the ribbon holding my hair up and tied it to the cross. That’ll last a bit longer.
That’s a nice gesture, love
, said a voice from beside us. I turned to see an old woman laying a bunch of flowers at the grave next to da’s.
It’s for my da… I began.
She smiled sadly. This is my son. I’ve another away yonder over there. Lost them both in the war, and my husband in the Great War. Here’s to hoping you two won’t have to suffer such losses.

The conversation ended there and we decided to leave, walking back to the car in silence, lost in our own thoughts.

Colin, I said when we got back to the car.
Yes?
Our children will never have to live through anything like the war. I don’t want to be like that old lady and I don’t want to lose you like I lost da.

If I should die, think only this of me:
That there’s some corner of a foreign field
That is forever England. There shall be
In that rich earth a richer dust concealed;
A dust whom England bore, shaped, made aware,
Gave, once, her flowers to love, her ways to roam,
A body of England’s, breathing English air,
Washed by the rivers, blest by the suns of home.

And think, this heart, all evil shed away,
A pulse in the eternal mind no less
Gives somewhere back the thoughts by England given;
Her sights and sounds, dreams happy as her day;
And laughter, learnt of friends; and its gentleness
In hearts at peace, under an English heaven.

~Rupert Brooke November-December 1914
~

 


#105:  Author: tanLocation: London via Newcastle Australia PostPosted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 5:46 pm


Ohh. Colin is so sweet!

Pim, the quote at the end was brilliant. It has always been one of my favourite war poems.


Crying or Very sad (in sympathy with Sharlie)

 


#106:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 6:25 pm


Pim, I have finally caught up since Part 1!! Taken me a couple of weeks, but here I am.

The last post definitely brought a lump to my throat, but it was perfect.


Keep it coming!

 


#107:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 6:32 pm


Sublime.

Thank you Pim. (Having problems seeing the screen due to tears)

 


#108:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 11:28 pm


Oh Pim, how absolutely right! And Colin is so wondrous for having thought of this!

 


#109:  Author: Elder in OntarioLocation: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 1:23 am


OK, I didn't remember just where Sharlie's father is buried, but I certainly thought Colin planned to take her to visit his grave. A lovely touch.

Thanks, Pim.

 


#110:  Author: MaryRLocation: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 8:48 am


That is so lovely, Pim. How sweet of Colin....

My husband researched his grandfather on the web and discovered where his grave was in Ypres - he was killed out there before he knew he was going to be a father (Ray's mum) - so now he is going to visit the grave next Easter.

 


#111:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 9:21 am


Kat wrote:
Pim, I have finally caught up since Part 1!! Taken me a couple of weeks, but here I am.


*applauds the Kitty's perseverence Wink*

It was a long drive down from Dunkirk to Perpignan, for which I spent the most part asleep. We spent a few days in Perpignan to give Colin a break from driving and us both the chance to explore the city, albeit laden down with photographic equipment for the moments when Colin’s muses struck him. Once recovered we drove down to Port Verdres on the Spanish border to begin to long drive at least as far as Pisa. We took our time though France visiting the places that I had traced on the map when we had been planning the trip – Narbonne, Montpellier, Marseille, St Raphaël, Cannes and Nice to name a few. We passed through Monaco, marvelling at the tiny principality before moving on to Menton on the border with Italy where we found a cable waiting for us.

Daughter for the Fitzpatricks STOP Juliet Bridget on 28 October STOP Harriet and Martin both delighted STOP See you on your return STOP

We sent an immediate reply of our congratulations, only a few days late. I was half tempted to abandon the trip but Italy lay before me and it was an opportunity I didn’t want to miss. We crossed the border the following morning and drove to Imperia where we would spend our first Italian night. Over the next month we made out way along the Italian coast until the end of November when we found ourselves in Cecina, having made it further south than we had anticipated.

I thought we could take a little detour on the way home, Colin said over dinner on our final night.
What sort of detour, I asked, wrestling with my spaghetti.
Switzerland.
I dropped my carefully laden fork. What?
You heard. We can cut through Switzerland and take a stop at the school and then drive cross country through France.
Really?
Yes really, I thought you might be missing it a bit.
Oh I am. Not that I want to go back but, well I do, but… Oh I’m making a horrible mess of this.
He laughed. I’m not regretting getting married… I stopped. I think I’ll put the spade away now.
He patted my hand reassuringly. I know what you mean, gorgeous.

It was odd paying a flying visit to the school as I was seized upon by everybody and there simply wasn’t time for me to distribute myself amongst everybody. Still it was nice to see everyone again and the visit was over all too soon and we were heading back through France towards Calais. Colin had a small mountain of film that would keep him busy until Christmas so they could be sent to the magazine in the new year.

I can’t believe we’re on the way home already, I remarked on the ferry back to Dover.
No, neither can I. You have had a good time though, haven’t you?
I nodded. I was a little apprehensive at first – I’ve had days out as your assistant before but this was different.
You could be my assistant all the time.
Who’d do the housework and make you dinner? Even I can’t be in two places at once.

He laughed and ruffled my hair. Bet you could be if you tried hard enough.
I laughed. I’m not experimenting, besides, one of me is enough.
One of you is perfect.

 


#112:  Author: Karry PostPosted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 10:04 am


Thanks, Pim. I too was having difficulty seeing the screen at the cemetery posting! Strange look now coming my way from the people sitting opposite!

This getts better and better!

 


#113:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 11:20 am


Was also reading the end of the cemetary one through tears - it reminded me of the trip I took with my Mum to find my Great-Uncle's grave and his cousin, we were lucky thoguh my grandfather came back despite being captured at Dunkirk.

Love the descriptions of their whistlestop tour of Europe. Thank you.

 


#114:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 1:29 pm


pim wrote:
Kat wrote:
Pim, I have finally caught up since Part 1!! Taken me a couple of weeks, but here I am.


*applauds the Kitty's perseverence Wink*

*takes a bow* Laughing Mr. Green


I’m not experimenting, besides, one of me is enough.
One of you is perfect.


Aww! *swoon* such a smoothie! Very Happy

 


#115:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 2:10 pm


Sad but Smile

That was very emotional.

Thank you Pim

 


#116:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 8:25 pm


Thanks, Sharlie. It was lovely that Colin thought of going to Dunkirk with Sharlie and that they were able to pay a flying visit to the CS.

I know this is going back a bit, but I was remembering that you decided to take Sharlie out of school for the term that was 'Redheads'. I reread the book last week and she isn't mentioned. I'm sorry if this isn't any help.

 


#117:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 9:41 pm


Thank you Pimmy!
The cemetery post had tears in my eyes!

 


#118:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 11:15 pm


Lovely, Pim - he is such a sweetie! Very Happy

 


#119:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 9:14 am


Huzzah for it is Friday at long last...

I felt restless to begin with on our return, and bored. Colin was working long hours to get all his photographs developed and even though I saw my sisters and the rest of the family most days I still felt listless. To make matters worse my period was late; they had been horribly regular since Alice and I was a little worried given that we had agreed to leave children until after we’d been to Scotland. Two weeks passed without its appearance and I was feeling increasingly worried and bracing myself for the worst until one morning I woke up with those familiar excruciating cramps in my stomach telling me that the need to worry was over. I spent the day feeling too weak to move and curled up in the corner of the settee with a pile of books, all of which I discarded after a few pages, and a hot water bottle clutched firmly to my stomach. I wasn’t quite sure how I should be feeling having spent two weeks bracing myself in case I had been pregnant only to discover that I was very not pregnant after all.

I’m home!

I was feeling too weak to even lift my head on hearing Colin’s call, not even when he entered the room.

No dinner, he asked half jokingly and I burst into tears. He stared at me in horror and crouched down beside me. Sweetheart, what on earth’s the matter? I shook my head and just cried harder as he took me in his arms. What’s happened?
I gulped in a desperate attempt to stop crying. I thought I might be pregnant but I’m not, I’m very much not. And everywhere hurts and I don’t… I stopped and burst into tears again.
Oh sweetheart, he muttered, hugging me fiercely. Why didn’t you say something before?
B… because we’d agreed we wouldn’t…
I wiped my eyes on my sleeve. It doesn’t matter now.
Can I get you anything for the pain?
I shook my head. You don’t get like this every month do you, he asked anxiously.
No, just every now and again it gangs up on me.
I don’t suppose you fancy going out for dinner
. I shook my head. I’ll go and make something then. He felt my hot water bottle. That’s frozen, I’ll go and refill it for you.
I hugged it tighter to me. Don’t take it.
He gently prised it from my arms, replacing it with a cushion. I’ll be right back.

I closed my eyes, trying to black out the pain until I heard a series of crashes and wild yelps from the kitchen, coupled with the unmistakable smell of burning. I had forgotten that Colin was a complete disaster in the kitchen. I eased myself up and stumbled into the kitchen and surveyed the chaos. He looked up sheepishly from sweeping the fragments of a smashed bowl.

What are you doing, I asked despairingly, hastily turning off the hob.
I was making soup…
I prodded the congealed contents of the pan with a s***n. I don’t think I’m hungry. I’ll just go to bed.
He sighed. Think I’ve gone off the idea of soup too. I’ll put you to bed and then make myself a sandwich.

I allowed myself to be carried upstairs and sat, feeling helpless, on the end of the bed whilst Colin lit the fire. He then helped me into my pyjamas and tucked me into bed as I curled into a ball, wishing the pain away. He returned a short while later with a tray and my hot water bottle, which I gratefully took from him.

I made you a cup of tea, he said, placing the cup on my bedside table. If you don’t want it then I shall worry more than I am doing and send for a doctor.

I smiled at him and cautiously sipped at the hot tea whilst he changed into his pyjamas and settled beside me in bed to eat his sandwich.

I’ll try not to get crumbs on the sheets, he said with a smile. But I didn’t want to be downstairs on my own with you up here like this. He held out his arm and I curled against him. Are you okay – with the not being pregnant thing, I mean?
I… I suppose I was getting myself used to the idea in case I was and now…
I sighed. Now I can carry on getting used to being married. I’m just a bit restless knowing that I can’t really get on with anything before Scotland. I heard him chewing thoughtfully on his sandwich. Colin?
He swallowed. I suppose I’ve been neglecting you a little lately with work. I opened my mouth to protest. Why don’t you come to work with me after Christmas? We can find things in the shop to keep you busy and Imogen’s always complaining that she’s got too much to do. That’ll keep you occupied until we got to Scotland.
Are you sure? I mean, what about housework and things?
Hang it? Anyway that’s what weekends are for.
Did I ever tell you you’re wonderful?

He kissed the top of my head. You may have mentioned it once or twice.
He leant over and kissed me. Eew, I groaned, pulling away from him. You’ve got corned beef in your sandwich!

 


#120:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 9:28 am


*Hugs Sharlie*
Period pain is a b*%^h!

 


#121:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 9:31 am


Thanks, Pim. Colin did a great job at looking after Sharlie. I'm glad Sharlie will have more things to occupy her time.

 


#122:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 10:37 am


Poor Sharlie..been there - frequently! And I reiterate: Colin is a sweetie! Very Happy

 


#123:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 11:23 am


Aw ppor Sharlie and yes Colin is a sweetie.

Thank you pimbles.

 


#124:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 11:45 am


Awww lovely Colin.

Can sympathise with Sharlie, espcially the bit about not wanting to let go of the hot water bottle even though its cold.

 


#125:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 8:16 pm


Owwww! ((((Sharlie))))

Can definitely sympathise. Colin is a wonder - but you'd better start teaching him how to cook, Sharlie! Laughing

Thanks Pim.

 


#126:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 8:47 pm


Colin is definitely lovely!

 


#127:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Dec 10, 2005 12:28 am


Phew! Finally caught up on the new installment!

Lovely wedding, so glad it all went off so well! Very Happy Was so sweet of Colin to take Sharlie to see her Dad like that.

And bless him and his corned beef sandwiches Wink

Thanks Pim. Very Happy

 


#128:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Dec 10, 2005 12:41 pm


I'm glad I didn't read the Dunkirk post at work - better to sniff in private, I think.

This is still one of my favourite drabbles and I shall hope to read it all the way through again when it ends. It's been sad and funny in turn and there's not a post I haven't enjoyed.

Thank you Pim.

 


#129:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sat Dec 10, 2005 9:11 pm


Thank you Pim - poor Sharlie, I definitely sympathise.

 


#130:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Sat Dec 10, 2005 10:18 pm


I want a Colin! Laughing

Thank you Pimberlola! Very Happy

 


#131:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 11:04 am


Festive-ness amidst the black cloud above my head...

I enjoyed being around in the run up to Christmas and helping my nieces and nephews make their Christmas presents. We would be spending this Christmas at Harriet’s and Colin and I would then head to Nicole for New Year. The local photography society that both Colin and Rupert belonged to was holding a benefit dinner on Christmas Eve and I found myself going along, albeit under protest that I would rather have spent it with my family. The whole affair wasn’t much fun for either Aunt Jane or I as we spent the evening surrounded by snobs who didn’t seem to think that people should ever be able to better themselves. I held my tongue for Colin’s sake but he sensed my discomfort and made our excuses to leave early.

I’m sorry, that was a lousy evening, he said in the taxi on the way home. I‘d much rather have been at Harri’s with the kids.
It’s not your fault they’re all idiots.
But I should have known they’d be like that. They always have been; it’s why I tend to avoid their functions at all costs.
Why do you stay involved with them then?
It keeps me in touch with things I guess. But I won’t make you go to any more of their functions.


The house was in darkness when we returned and so we crept upstairs trying to be as quiet as we possibly could.

Sharlie, Colin whispered as I was on the point of dropping off.
What?
Merry Christmas.

I yawned. To you too. You know, I murmured sleepily. If it all goes according to our cunning plan then next Christmas I’ll be fat and miserable and wondering why I ever married you.
Oh thanks very much.
I mean pregnant, you fool
.
He laughed. I know, and it would be the icing on the cake if you were but let’s not worry about it just yet.
If you insist
.


Auntie Sharlie! Auntie Sharlie!

I awoke with a start as Claire and Peter both leapt on me. I jabbed Colin in the ribs to make sure he was awake and let them both climb under the covers with us. I stole a glance at my watch; it wasn’t quite six.

Why are you both up, I asked.
I can’t sleep, I’m too excited. Claire demonstrated her excitement by bouncing so hard that Colin almost fell out of bed. I bit my lip to stop myself from laughing. It’s Christmas Day, Auntie Sharlie.
I know,
I replied as Peter curled up sleepily against me. Claire, did you wake Peter? She said nothing in reply. I thought as much.
Oh but Auntie Sharlie it’s far too exciting to still be asleep. I tried to see if it had snowed but it’s too dark outside.
That’s because it’s the middle of the night,
Colin grumbled.
Ignore Uncle Colin being a grumpy old man. Claire giggled. We’ll get up at seven o’clock like we agreed with mummy.
Claire sighed and nodded. Will you tell me a story then Auntie Sharlie? I couldn’t possibly go back to sleep.

I bit back a laugh as Colin despairingly pulled a pillow over his head and pretended to be asleep.

 


#132:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 12:31 pm


Awwwwww!!! See the cootness!!!!

thank you Pim, that was gorgeous!

 


#133:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 1:46 pm


Lovely!
I think I'm going mad (well madder than usual) as I think I had a dream last night about what Sharlie called her first child. I can't quite remember what it was, think it began with an L but it was definately a very weird name... Confused

 


#134:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 2:23 pm


Thank you pimmy that was lovely!

 


#135:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 5:33 pm


Thank you Pimmy, that was such a cute scene.

And I don't blame Colin - I'd be exactly the same in the morning. I wonder what he'll be like when he and Sharlie have kids.

 


#136:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 7:40 pm


Fluffy pink love!! Very Happy

 


#137:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 7:57 pm


Ahhhh! That's just getting them prepared for when their own come along!

Thanks Pim (Love the black cloud reference!)

 


#138:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 8:31 pm


Thanks, Pim. I think Sharlie should call her child Pim but maybe it's not really possible to do that.

 


#139:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 10:30 pm


She could if she called her something like Petunia Ivy Marguerite and used the initials! And then spent the rest of her life wondering why! Very Happy

Pim, this was lovely....oh, the joys of early Christmas morning!

 


#140:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 9:25 am


The black cloud is still there, although it looks a bit smaller this morning!

Christmas day passed riotously and New Year was a quiet affair at Nicole’s giving the four of us the chance to catch up on the news since the wedding. January sped by in a mixture of helping at the shop and trying to sort out everything for the Scotland trip. It felt as though my feet had hardly touched the floor when 1 February arrived and we clambered into Colin’s overpacked car to being our Scottish adventures. It was a long drive to Tarbert, one which we would split over two days. I slept most of the way to Dumfries where we stopped to break the journey overnight and Colin kept making noises about how I would finally have to learn to drive once we got back to Liverpool. I ignored the suggestion although I forced myself to admit that he might have a point. We spent the following night in Tarbert before driving down to Kennacraig and catching the morning ferry to Port Ellen on Islay.

We spent the weekend on Islay following Colin’s whims and the guide book as to what would make a good photograph. I was beginning to distinguish between the varying bits of equipment as well rather than just randomly handing him things and hoping for the best. We had seen a good proportion of the island and Colin would always maintain that he agreed with the guidebook’s assertion that Port Charlotte was the prettiest village on the island. After all, he remarked, it ought to be with a name like that. On the Tuesday afternoon we left Port Askaig on the short ferry trip to Jura and its mountains, instantly serving me a reminder about how much I missed living in Switzerland. We spent our days there walking and admiring the views and I found myself feeling a lot more peaceful than I had for a while. We then moved north to spend the weekend on Colonsay exploring its history and beaches before taking the ferry to Oban where we spent the night.

After everything we had seen so far I wasn’t sure that Mull would live up to much but I was proved sorely wrong. We found enough to do to occupy our week there including a day on Iona and one at Staffa to see Fingal’s cave. I loved being back among the mountains with that sense of peace I could find only there. I loved the fact that visiting places with Colin often meant simply sitting and waiting for the right moment to capture it all in a moment. The pile of film was slowly increasing along with the pile of postcards we had to send home. I fell in love with the tranquillity of Iona but Colin’s photographer’s eye was more impressed by Staffa.

On our return to Oban we decided to take a few days break before going on to Tiree and Coll. It felt strange to be back in a town amongst so many people and we were both glad to board the Tiree ferry. After the mountains of Mull and Jura, Tiree was disappointingly flat although we found it easier for walking and more conducive to Colin’s muses. He spent most of our time there sitting and waiting for the right moment. Feeling the cold a little more I elected to leave him and explore on foot. Coll concluded our exploration of the Inner Hebrides and we had decided to leave Skye out of the equation for logistical purposes. We returned to Oban for a few more days before taking the ferry to Barra and the Outer Hebrides.

 


#141:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 11:09 am


Thanks, Pim. It sounds like they had a lovely trip and it definitely brought back memories of my holidays in Scotland!

 


#142:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 12:00 pm


Thank you pimmy.

 


#143:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 12:54 pm


That was beautiful Pim. Thank you

 


#144:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 1:58 pm


Sounds like a wondefully peaceful and relaxing time.

Thanks Pim Very Happy

Liz

 


#145:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 7:49 pm


Thank you Pim! That was a lovely restful post!

 


#146:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 7:53 pm


Just echoing the thanks Pim - sounds like a lovely working holiday.

 


#147:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 11:04 pm


What a lovely peaceful interlude.
Thank you Pim.

 


#148:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Wed Dec 14, 2005 9:11 am


Mental note to self: open a drive, open document, highlight post, copy post, paste in here. Not open g drive, ignore word and still try to paste. D'oh.

Colin twisted his ankle on arrival on Barra and spent the duration of our stay there confined to bed, much to his disgruntlement. I seized my freedom with both hands and, with a camera entrusted to my hands, spent four days exploring the island on foot. I took the tiny island bus to Vatersay one of the days and spent it rambling about there. I didn’t have Colin’s eye for the perfect moment though and he would later despair over some of my attempts to capture the island on film. I didn’t care though, it was all imprinted on my memory. We spent the Sunday quietly at the hotel reading in front of the fire.

By the Monday morning Colin’s ankle was much better and we took the ferry to Lochboisdale on South Uist. It was an island I fell instantly in love with, its mountains to the east and endless dunes to the west. I loved the way that the main road bisected the island so its views gave us the best of both worlds. For Colin it was a photographer’s paradise and he spent our four days there with his finger constantly hovering over the camera. Over the next week we slowly made our way over Benbecula, Grimsay and North Uist. Benbecula wasn’t an island we wanted to linger over but we were both spellbound by the loch dominated North Uist. Colin managed to talk the rangers into allowing him to watch for corncrake with them one night. By the time we found ourselves waiting for the Uig ferry it was barely possible to move for camera film.

We spent the night at Uig on Skye to break up the ferry journey to Harris and on seeing the mountains I was sorry that we had chosen to leave out Skye. Harris more than made up for it, however, when I found myself back amongst mountains. We spent little time together on Harris, Colin preferring to take the car out and follow his muses whilst I went out walking. We had spent almost two months together with no other real company and it was beginning to tell. The slight break did us good and we were back on an even keel when we made our way over the precarious mountain road to Lewis.

As much as it pained us we knew that we had to restrict ourselves as to what we visited on Lewis although we both wanted to see everything. I could scarcely believe the contrasts with Harris as we made our way over the peat moors of Lewis. We travelled as far north as we could to the Butt of Lewis to see the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean. And we travelled west to the haunting standing stones for the sake of Colin’s muses. I loved the Eye Peninsula to the east of Stornoway that we walked along admiring the views.

March was just about over when we caught the ferry to Ullapool, pausing there to spend the night. It was the first day of April when we boarded the ferry bound for Orkney from Scrabster to being the next stage of the journey.

 


#149:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Dec 14, 2005 10:19 am


This is great - thank you pimbles!

 


#150:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Dec 14, 2005 11:29 am


Lovely posts, thanks Pim.

Christmas was very sweet! Very Happy

 


#151:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Dec 14, 2005 12:57 pm


*happy sigh*

This is lovely - thanks Pim Very Happy

Liz

 


#152:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Wed Dec 14, 2005 5:20 pm


Thanks, Pim. I'm sorry Colin didn't get to see Barra.

 


#153:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Dec 14, 2005 6:45 pm


Hebrides are so beautiful - with lots of semi-tame sheep to feed Very Happy

Embarassed Laughing

 


#154:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 9:19 am


I seem to be being spurned by HCAT this morning, which is possibly not what I need so I find myself here instead... Wink

I felt awful by the time we arrived in Kirkwall and found our guest house. Despite sleeping around the clock I felt no better when I awoke and sent Colin out for the day on his own. I felt no better as the fortnight wore on and barely left the guest house, let alone bed. Colin tried to convince me to see a doctor but I was convinced that I was just overtired after our two months in the Hebrides. I read everything I could lay my hands on whilst confined indoors to try and take my mind off things. I wasn’t convinced that I had flu, as had been suggested, I knew I had felt like this before I just couldn’t remember when. After a long discussion Colin agreed that I should be allowed to spend the final two weeks with him touring Westray, Papa Westray, Eday, Sanday and Stronsay.

What neither of us had counted on, however, was the effect that the ferry trips would have on me. I spent them all being violently sick and consequently our island stays confined indoors. I couldn’t understand why it was affecting me so differently from the Hebrides and I was sorely disappointed to have missed out on Orkney. Colin promised me a return trip but I knew that it wouldn’t be the same.

If I’d thought things would get better in Shetland I was proved sorely wrong after I spent the entire eight hour ferry trip to Lerwick being sick again. I spent our first week in Shetland in bed feeling not much better. Despite his protestations I managed to convince Colin that he would be better off taking his muses to visit the island and do what he had come to do. He went off grudgingly, complaining that he didn’t want to leave me on my own. By the second week I was feeling up to short trips out and revelled in being in the fresh air which made me feel considerably more human. Things went back downhill again with the ferry trips to Yell, Unst and Fetlar which set me off being sick again. Colin tried to convince me to take a flight back to Aberdeen on our return to Lerwick but I argued that since the magazine had paid our ferry berths I would be taking it.

I wish I hadn’t after spending most of the sailing to Aberdeen in our cabin either being sick or wanting to be sick. Colin had to carry me to the car and into our hotel in Aberdeen as my legs gave out on me every time I tried to stand up. I slept most of the way back to Liverpool feeling too miserable to deal with the mixed feelings I had about going back. Not even the thought that I could action my plans for the house could cheer me up. Colin was still making noises about me seeing a doctor but I was sure that things would improve now we were settled back at home.

Once back at work Colin would bring home a fresh batch of pictures every day. I tried to summon up the enthusiasm for them but I just couldn’t bring myself to do it. I hated feeling so flat about everything and not being able to work out why. Then one afternoon I found myself flicking through my diary to check a birthday. My last period had been marked as during our time in the Outer Hebrides and I hadn’t realised because I’d been feeling so awful. My hand instantly flew to my stomach as realisation dawned on me. I couldn’t be pregnant, could I?

 


#155:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 9:27 am


How dense of you not to realise sooner Sharlie!!!!
Congratulations Sharlie and Colin!
Mexican Wave

 


#156:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 10:32 am


Thanks, Pim. I hope Sharlie is right. It took her a long time to work it out.

 


#157:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 10:42 am


Silly Sharlie for not realising! Congratualtions by the way!

Thank you pim.

 


#158:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 11:46 am


Very Happy Bless her, she's so sweet!

Thanks Pim!

 


#159:  Author: SquirrelLocation: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 1:23 pm


Poor Sharlie, not remembering the last time that she had felt that way. She had the hint from more or less the start if she had cared to realize it. Oh well, she has remembered now. Looking forwards to Colin's reaction when he hears. Thanks Pim

 


#160:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 1:49 pm


Can quite understand that Sharlie might have subconsciously closed her mind to the possibility of pregnancy after her earlier false alarm. I hope it's the real thing this time.

Thanks Pim Kiss

Liz

 


#161:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 7:56 pm


Congratulations Sharlie! Laughing

 


#162:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 8:37 am


Huzzah. hurrah and hoo-ray for it is, finally, Friday. Alas yesterday I thought it was Friday and was quite peeved to discover it wasn't. But today it is so all is good and shiny once more.

I couldn’t bring myself to share my suspicions with Colin so I kept them to myself hoping somehow that I’d made a mistake. But June wore on with no sign of my period and my worry increased.

What on earth’s the matter with you these days, Rebecca demanded one day at the end of the month. You’ve had a face longer than a wet weekend since you got back from Scotland. I promptly burst into tears. Oh goodness, she said, taking me in her arms. I didn’t mean to make you cry. I was only trying to help.
I gulped back my sobs and rubbed my eyes. I’m sorry.
Don’t apologise, just tell me what’s wrong. It can’t be anything so bad.
I think I’m pregnant
, I blurted out without thinking and it suddenly became so real.
Think or know?
Think.
Have you seen anybody?
No.
Does Colin know?
I shook my head miserably. How pregnant do you think you are – when were you last cursed?
I don’t know – March I think
.
She rolled her eyes. You’ve only just realised?
I… I didn’t think at first. I was ill most of the time we were away.
How ill?
Just… sick, and lethargic.
Mornings?
Sometimes, and on the ferries… I only realised when we got back and I thought it might have been all the travelling.
You’ll need to see someone and get it confirmed, you know and you’ll have to tell Colin.
I can’t.
I thought you two couldn’t wait to have children.
We are, but…
I burst into tears again and Rebecca held me.
I’m thrilled for you if you are but you really have to see someone.

I was scared about going to see a doctor; I kept thinking back to Alice. I wasn’t sure I’d be able to go through that again. The doctor confirmed my suspicions. I was pregnant and the baby was due at the beginning of January. I was terrified and kept the news to myself, not sure how to break it.

Are you or aren’t you, Rebecca demanded of me a couple of weeks later. I knew I couldn’t lie to her; I nodded and then burst into tears. Goodness, I thought you’d be pleased, she said, taking me in her arms.
I am, but… Becca, I’m scared.
I know. Everyone is the first time. You haven’t told Colin, have you?
I shook my head. You’ll have to sooner rather than later. She ran her hand over my stomach. It’s not something you can hide forever.

I knew she was right but I still couldn’t bring myself to tell Colin; I was too scared. He was working away on and off doing a new project for the magazine on the changing industrial landscape so I had a lot of time on my hands to dwell on things. We wanted children but it was just a little too soon. With each passing day I became ever more aware of the new life growing inside me. I didn’t want to be scared but I couldn’t help but think back to Alice. When Lucy invited me to stay for a few days towards the end of July I leapt at the chance, deciding to use the time to put my thoughts in order.

 


#163:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 9:12 am


Please let nothing bad happen to Sharlie on her visit to Lucy Confused

 


#164:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 10:31 am


Oh Sharlie, you need to tell him and then he can help you with the fear.

Thank you pim.

 


#165:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 12:04 pm


Baby squeeeeeeee!

but pleaese let everything be ok! Wink Thanks Pimmy

 


#166:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 1:50 pm


I hope Sharlie gets the chance for some quiet reflection while she's visiting Lucy and feels much better about things when she comes back.

Thanks Pim Very Happy

Liz

 


#167:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 6:14 pm


Please let her tell Colin soon!

 


#168:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 8:38 pm


Oh!!! Poor Sharlie! She should be so happy, but all these mixed feelings are making her unhappy!

Please make it shiny for her, Pim!

 


#169:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 9:28 pm


Thanks, Pim. I hope Sharlie and the baby will be ok and that Sharlie tells Colin the news soon.

 


#170:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 9:37 pm


Does Colin know about Alice? Crying or Very sad

Thanks Pim.

 


#171:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 10:53 pm


Well I was all excited about the baby....but now I'm getting a little scared.

[whisper]Georgia is safely locked away, right?[/whisper]

 


#172:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Mon Dec 19, 2005 9:25 am


Lesley wrote:
Does Colin know about Alice?


Nope. (And more for my hopeless memory than anything, in order of knowingness tis: Trixie, Elizabeth, Tish, Lucy, Kathie & Louise)

I had been looking forward to my trip to Lucy’s but it only served to remind me how far out of the academic loop I had fallen since the second book had been published. Anna’s letters had dropped a few hints but I hadn’t found the time or inspiration to do anything about it. I realised that I had to at least try and make a start on things because I would never have the same levels of time to myself once the baby was born. To keep my quiet, Lucy took me to the Bodleian so that I could do some research. It was lovely to feel my brain working and being challenged again.

Sharlie. It was my second day in Oxford and I found myself being shaken awake by Lucy, having fallen asleep over my book. Dinner’s nearly ready. She removed the book from my lap. I don’t think you should let yourself out of the loop again.
I might not have a chance in the matter
, I mumbled, without thinking.
What do you mean?
Nothing, forget I ever said anything, Luce.
No, Sharlie, something’s bothering you. Won’t you tell me what?

I knew I wouldn’t be able to keep the truth from Lucy. I sighed. I’m pregnant.
Oh but that’s…
she began enthusiastically as my face fell. Aren’t you pleased?
Well, yes but…
But what? I thought it was what you wanted. Both of you. Don’t tell me Colin’s not pleased because I won’t believe you.
He doesn’t know.
Oh Sharlie.
Luce, I’m scared.

She sat down beside me and slipped her arm around my shoulder. Alice, she asked gently and I nodded. Just because it happened with Alice doesn’t mean it’s going to happen this time.
I know but…
I know.


Lucy didn’t press the matter any further that evening but the arrival of Kathie the following day did. After dinner I was forcibly sat down on the sofa between the pair of them to ‘talk it over’.

You’ll have to tell him, remarked Kathie, casting a critical eye over me and running her hand over my stomach. You won’t be able to hide this forever.
I crossed my arms protectively over the tiny bump that had formed. I know. And I can’t let my waist bands out much more either.
Has Colin not noticed you’re getting positively chubby,
asked Kathie.
To be honest he’s not been around much lately. He’s been working on a new project at the magazine and… Well, the right time to tell him hasn’t come up yet.
Sod that
, exclaimed Lucy suddenly. If that’s your attitude you’ll be about to give birth and still waiting for the ‘right moment’ and I think that will be more of a shock for the poor chap.
Does it kick yet
, interrupted Kathie, breaking Lucy’s speech.
I… I think so, I’m not sure.
Like fluttering movements, like a butterfly or something,
pressed Kathie.
I… yes… I suppose that’s it. But how… did you…
She shrugged. I didn’t associate it at the time, only later. I wish I had. Not that it matters now, she added. What matters is you telling Colin that he’s going to be a daddy. He’ll love it.
I know. He’ll be so excited and I’m so scared. I know I’m being silly but I can’t help it… What are you…
I began as Kathie untucked my blouse from the waistband of my skirt and pulled it up over my stomach. She grinned, leant forward and gently kissed my belly button. You mad woman!
Baby’s first kiss,
she said with a laugh. I love that kid more than you’ll ever know. She paused. Tuck your blouse back in, love, you look a right mess.

 


#173:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Dec 19, 2005 10:30 am


Aw, lucky Sharlie to have such wonderful friends! I hope they can help her get to a point where she's happy to tell Colin!

Thank you pimmy!

 


#174:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Dec 19, 2005 3:14 pm


I do hope that Sharlie will get up the courage to tell Colin. The longer she leaves it the worse it will be.

 


#175:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Dec 19, 2005 3:55 pm


Thanks, Pim. That would be really funny if Sharlie told Colin she's pregnant just literally before she's going to give birth!

 


#176:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Dec 19, 2005 4:16 pm


Awwwwww!!! That was a very sweet scene Pim!

I hope Sharlie will listen to Lucy and Kathie and TELL Colin soon!

 


#177:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Dec 19, 2005 8:22 pm


Poor Sharlie - she's very lucky to have such lovely friends.

Thanks Pim.

 


#178:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Dec 19, 2005 8:36 pm


Awww - bless Kathie and Lucy! Come on Sharlie, tell him!

Thanks Pim. Very Happy

 


#179:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Dec 20, 2005 4:30 am


Definitely tell him!
Poor Sharlie, such mixed feelings, and so understandable!

 


#180:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Tue Dec 20, 2005 9:07 am


'Snot my fault she's being stubborn Rolling Eyes

The stay with Lucy and Kathie had done me the world of good but in the run up to Tish’s wedding the first weekend of August I hardly had the chance to speak to Colin properly. It was getting harder to hide my growing bump and accommodate it in my clothes. Rebecca gave up asking despairingly when I was going to tell Colin. I hated keeping it from him but I just couldn’t find the right words. I made my mind up to tell him once Tish’s wedding was over.

We headed down to Bristol two days before the wedding because Colin had a few muses he wanted to pursue. Tish was alarmingly organised about the wedding, more so than we would have ever given her credit for. I spent the day before at her parents’ house with Lucy and Nicole but there was really nothing any of us could do since it had all been done. On the other hand it gave Lucy, Nicole and I the chance to catch up on the news. I hadn’t told either Tish or Nicole about the baby and I could tell that Lucy was struggling to avoid the subject.

The day of Tish’s wedding was perfect. She looked positively radiant as she walked down the aisle on her father’s arm followed by Lucy and Samantha. I thought back to my own wedding, scarcely able to believe that it was almost a year ago. As Tish floated past us I stole a glance at Colin and knew that I wouldn’t have things any other way. I heard Tish and Peter make the same vows to each other that Colin and I had made and then they walked form the church as Mr and Mrs Wallace to a storm of confetti.

I can’t believe I’m married, Tish said to me later that afternoon. I don’t think my feet have touched the floor all day.
It’s an amazing feeling, isn’t it,
I said looking over to where Colin was chatting animatedly to Lawrie. If you’ll believe it, then it only gets better.
I can’t imagine being happier than I am today. I can’t believe that it’s nearly a year since you got married.
Me neither, but I must admit that you did it with a lot less fuss than I.

She grinned. I don’t have three sisters to panic unnecessarily over everything, the one is fine.
I giggled. Alas, too true. Where’s the groom?
She scanned the room. Pass, around somewhere I daresay.
You’re being very casual about misplacing your husband.
So careless of me, brand new as well
. Her face grew serious. If Peter and I can be half as happy as you and Colin…
I shook my head. Happiness can’t be measured; it comes in too many disguises for that.
I should have known you’d have some wise comeback.
It’s what I do.
I know.
You and Peter will be fine, more than fine.


We waved the happy couple off on honeymoon and, feeling a little worn out by proceedings, Colin and I decided to return to our hotel. As I curled up to go to sleep I felt the now familiar fluttering movements of the baby as if to remind me of its presence. As if I could forget.

 


#181:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Dec 20, 2005 10:05 am


Oh Sharlie!!! She's infuriating...

Thank you pim - and another lovely wedding!

 


#182:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Tue Dec 20, 2005 11:55 am


*pokes Sharlie*

Pim, make her behave!!

 


#183:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Dec 20, 2005 4:00 pm


*shakes head despairingly*

Although, I must say, Colin is being a bit dim and unobservant!!!!

 


#184:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Dec 20, 2005 7:47 pm


Men I think are quite unobservant. This couple who are friends with my mates boyfriend are expecting a baby, and the girl was 6 months gone before she told him, I can't believe he didn't realise!!!
Thanks Pim, its lovely to hear all about Sharlie's friends! Very Happy

 


#185:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Dec 20, 2005 8:15 pm


Thanks Pim - Sharlie you realise Colin will have a heart attack if you tell him when you go into labour? Wink

 


#186:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Wed Dec 21, 2005 1:59 am


Sharlie stop being such a daft bint!!

*hugs Colin and Sharlie*

Thanks Pim Kiss

 


#187:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Dec 21, 2005 5:09 am


Sharlie, TELL him! Very Happy

 


#188:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Wed Dec 21, 2005 9:05 am


Colin would like to apologise for the fact that he is a bit on the dim side but he is, after all, only a man and, more to the point, only a photographer, not even a doctor. Tschk!

Colin had gone out for dinner with some of his photographer friends on the Tuesday after Tish’s wedding and, feeling miserable, I had opted for an early night. I was still awake when he returned, somewhat earlier than expected.

I didn’t think you’d be in bed just yet, he commented, slipping into bed beside me. I rolled on to my side away from him. Sharlie? What did I say? He laid his hand on my shoulder and I flinched at his touch. Is something the matter? You could have come out with us but you’d have been bored stupid.
It’s not that.
What is it then? You’ve been really funny about everything since we got back from Scotland. Why won’t you talk to me? It can’t be anything so dreadful…
I bit my lip to try and stop the tears welling up in my eyes. Sharlie? Talk to me, please; you’re beginning to scare me. I brushed the tears out of my eyes. Sharlie?
I… I’m pregnant
, I whispered.
You’re… but… oh sweetheart, that’s fantastic news. At his enthusiasm I burst into tears, feeling guilty for having kept it from him for so long. Sharlie, he whispered, wrapping his arms around me. Aren’t you pleased?
I… yes… but, Colin, I’m terrified.
Because of Peggy
, he asked gently.
I choked back the last of my sobs. I’m terrified of losing the baby.
But why?

I rolled over to face him. Because that’s what happened last time.
Last time? What do you mean last time? When? Was it mine?
No, it wasn’t yours. It was during my first year at uni.
Why didn’t you tell me before?
Because… it was in the past, my past, where she belongs. I never thought I’d feel this way if I ever got pregnant again. Are you angry?
No,
he replied at length. I just wish you’d said something before. We both lay in silence for a few moments and I rolled on to my back, staring blankly at the ceiling. When’s it due?
Beginning of January, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner.
Shh.
He lifted my pyjama jacket over my stomach, running his hands over my bump. How have I missed this? He leant over and gently kissed my stomach before resting his head on it. Hello in there, this is your father speaking. I giggled. What?
When did you last have a shave? That stubble really tickles.
Ignore your mother, she gets like this sometimes. It’ll be you and me against her, kid, although I do advise you to keep on her right side for safety’s sake. And the same goes for those sisters of hers…
When you’ve quite finished maligning me and my family…
Well,
he said with an exasperated sigh. I was only offering a bit of friendly advice to baby. He looked up at me and grinned. What do you want?
I shrugged. I don’t mind so long as it’s healthy.
I bit my lip as he moved up to lie beside me. You don’t have to be scared, sweetheart, he whispered. I’ll be here with you every step of the way. I smiled weakly as he squeezed my hand. Sharlie, if it’s due in January then…
End of March, I think.
But we were being so careful…
Nothing’s foolproof.
Are you calling us fools?

I laughed. Only for each other. He kissed me softly on the end of my nose. What do you want?
I don’t mind. Although I suppose it’d be nice to have a boy, you know, carry on the family line. But a girl would be nice too.
He paused for a few moments. I suppose it explains a few things though.
What things?
Why you’ve been so funny since we got back from Scotland. I knew you were keeping something from me but I…
I’m sorry. I did want to tell you but I didn’t know how and I was so scared of losing it and then I didn’t want to tell you in case I did and then…
It doesn’t matter. I know now.
I’ll never keep anything like this from you again.
I snuggled closer to him and we wrapped our arms around each other.
I’m too excited to sleep.
I yawned. I’m not. It’s hard work carrying all this extra weight around.
You know I would if I could.
Well you can’t so you’ll just have to let me get on with it.

 


#189:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Dec 21, 2005 10:40 am


Finally! And yay for Colin he is so lovely!

Thank you pim!

 


#190:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Dec 21, 2005 4:10 pm


Yaaaaaay! Colin is so incredibly sweet!

Roll on January, yippee! Laughing

 


#191:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Dec 21, 2005 6:37 pm


Finally!!!! Colin is a true SLOC isn't he?

Thanks Pim.

 


#192:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Dec 21, 2005 6:51 pm


Phew! I was really afraid he would be seriously upset about Alice and also not being told earlier. An SLOC indeed!

 


#193:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Dec 21, 2005 8:42 pm


Awwwwwwww!!!!

The shinyness! Thank you Pimmy!

 


#194:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 8:03 am


It is far too early to be at work...

With the news out I was finally able to relax and began to enjoy being pregnant. My motivation returned and after a week long visit from Anna, Guillaume and Sara in September I found myself inspired. The only thing I was missing was staying power and there were so many evenings when Colin would come home and find me asleep over a book or my writing. I found myself corresponding regularly with Professor Stewart and by the time December arrived I had a satisfied feeling of making progress. December slowed down my motivation; I hated feeling fat and useless and was thoroughly fed up with being pregnant. Colin found it all quite amusing but would never dare to say so to my face.

I awoke on 23 December with a dragging pain in my stomach; it took me a couple of hours to realise this wasn’t the little niggling pains I’d been experiencing over the previous weeks, it was the real thing. Colin was away in London having been hired for a couple of parties and I wasn’t expecting him back until the following day. I lay in bed that morning trying to work out how I felt about the fact that the baby really was on its way. My sisters arrived mid morning since Christmas day would be spent here and they had come to help decorate. I didn’t mention anything to them but Rebecca, deciding that I looked a bit peaky, insisted that I should stay in bed so I was able to hide the contractions a little longer. By lunchtime I was too restless to stay in bed and they were coming more frequently. I decided that I ought to go and tell somebody what was happening and headed downstairs with my untouched lunch tray. I laid it on the side in the kitchen and ran myself a glass of water from the tap but as I turned round I was gripped by the strongest contraction so far. I doubled over as I felt something wet running down my legs, then my knees gave way and I sank to the floor dropping my glass in the process.

Sharlie, what on earth… I heard Rebecca’s voice from the doorway. She stared at me as realisation dawned on her and she knelt beside me, beginning to pick up the pieces of glass. Are you… she began as another contraction hit me. I turned my head away, whimpering at the pain. Rebecca swore under her breath. What didn’t you say something before, you idiot?
I didn’t want to worry you.

She helped me to my feet and stared at the floor, swearing again. Your waters have broken.
Is that bad?
No, it’s good and means that this little one is definitely on its way
. I stared at her in horror. No use worrying about it now.
How can you be so calm
, I gasped as another contraction washed over me. I grabbed wildly for the worktop as she rubbed by back.
Because I’ve been there, done it and got four children to prove it, she remarked dryly. Now let’s get you back to bed.

Elizabeth volunteered to go out and fetch the midwife but returned without her as she had been called away to a difficult birth but promised she would come as soon as she could.

You’re the nurse Harri, I heard Rebecca say.
I was a children’s nurse, she protested. I wasn’t a midwife. I don’t know…
Rebecca folded her arms impatiently. Between the three of us we’ve had eight children so somewhere along the line we must know what we’re doing.

The afternoon passed in a painful blur as I tried to follow Harriet’s instructions. Rebecca never moved from my side, holding my hand through the contractions. I was vaguely aware of Elizabeth in the background doing the fetching and carrying. I had never quite known anything like it before.

Just a couple more pushes, said Harriet eventually, resting her hand on my knee. You’re almost there.
I slumped back against the pillows. I can’t do it.
Don’t be silly,
she snapped. Of course you can. She was right and somehow I managed it. It’s a girl, came Harriet’s sudden exclamation. It’s a girl.
I laid back, trying to regain control of my breathing. It’s over, I asked Rebecca anxiously.
Not quite, she replied, running a cold flannel over my face. But you’ve got a little girl.
Is she okay? Can I hold her? I need to know.
We’ll get her cleaned up and you finished and then you can hold her.
But you don’t understand,
I said, feeling the panic rising in my voice.
Sharlie, getting hysterical isn’t going to help, she said firmly.
Eliz, I pleaded, catching her eye. She nodded.
Just let her hold her a minute, Becca.

With a shrug Harriet handed over the tiny white bundle to me and I fell instantly in unconditional love with the perfect baby in my arms. After everything I knew that this was what I was here to do. A sense of serenity and completion fell on me as I sat staring at my daughter.

What are you going to call her, asked Rebecca, breaking my thoughts.
Alice, I replied promptly with a smile at Elizabeth.

There had never been any doubt.

 


#195:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 8:15 am


Yay a baby! *squees happily*

I hope Colin get there soon! Thanks pimmy

 


#196:  Author: AliceLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 9:27 am


Yaye, Congratulations Sharlie. And a lovely name!

 


#197:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 9:32 am


Blinking back the tears because I'm in the office.

Happy tears, I hasten to add.

Thanks Pim.

 


#198:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 11:09 am


How wonderful! Thank you pim.

Welcome little Alice Kiss

 


#199:  Author: AlexLocation: Cambs, UK PostPosted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 12:21 pm


Are they going to phone Colin and tell him or...er...drop it on him when he gets back?

 


#200:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 3:54 pm


Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!

I hope Colin gets home soon! Very Happy

 


#201:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 7:29 pm


Awwww, lovely - thanks Pim. Laughing

 


#202:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 11:30 pm


I can't wait to see Colin's face!

That is such HAPPY news, thank you Sharlie

 


#203:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Fri Dec 23, 2005 12:05 am


A Christmas baby! Lovely lovely lovely! And how gorgeous that it was a true family event. Very Happy

 


#204:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Fri Dec 23, 2005 12:12 am


Thank you, Pim! I'm so glad nothing went wrong! And won't Colin be surprised....

 


#205:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Dec 23, 2005 12:40 am


Awwwwww!
That was gorgeous Pim! And so RIGHT somehow, that it was just Sharlie and her sisters there!

 


#206:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Fri Dec 23, 2005 9:08 am


I didn’t sleep much that night, too overwhelmed by what had happened. The midwife came a couple of hours after Alice arrived and proclaimed us both to be fit and healthy. Rebecca stayed with me all night, guiding me through my first uncertain hours of motherhood. I gazed, fascinated, on the tiny bundle in my arms, scarcely daring to believe that she was mine. In a selfish way I was glad that Colin was away working so that I could spend the time uninterrupted with Alice. Rebecca eventually headed to bed but I couldn’t bring myself to even begin contemplating sleeping in case I missed anything. I did eventually doze off after feeding her around five and awoke with a start as someone slid into bed beside me. I sat bolt upright, wincing as I did so before noticing that it was Colin.

What are you doing back? I wasn’t expecting you until this afternoon.
That’s no way to greet me
, he retorted. I got Eliz’s message when I got back to the hotel last night and I couldn’t bear staying away from you for any longer than was strictly necessary. I drove all night to get back here and you greet me like… like that!
I’m sorry, you startled me, that was all.
I leant over and kissed him gently.
So do I get an introduction to our daughter?
I leant over to pick Alice up out of the crib at my side, trying not to wake her, and placed her in his arms. What do you think, I whispered, noticing his face light up.
She’s… Oh Sharlie… She’s perfect…. She’s just… I can’t quite believe it.
I snuggled up against him. She’s not bad, is she?
She’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me
, he said in a choky voice. Maybe the second best, after you. I couldn’t have asked for a better Christmas present. She’ll always be my Christmas miracle. He leant forward and lightly kissed her forehead. Hello Alice. What’s the matter, sweetheart, he asked as the tears began to stream down my face.
I don’t know, I said with a half laugh.
Ignore your mother being silly; it happens sometimes. Although you are very definitely worth being silly over. Sharlie, I can’t believe this has happened and that she’s so… perfect. Are you okay, after everything?
A bit sore in places… not that you want to know about that.
He looked confused. Down there, I mouthed, pointing and comprehension dawned on him and he went unnaturally pale.
I see, he said at length with a slightly shocked edge to his voice. No, I probably don’t want to know.
I could be worse off. Harri said it was all disgustingly straightforward.
I yawned suddenly.
Have you slept much?
Not really. I couldn’t sleep, then she kept wanting attention… I didn’t want to sleep in case I missed anything.

He kissed the top of my head. I don’t blame you. I thought I was exhausted after driving all night but none of it matters now. Do you think the neighbours would object if I stood on the roof and announced it?
Quite possibly.
I think she’s waking up.


We both watched, fascinated, as Alice woke up and began to grizzle a little.

Do you think she wants something, he asked anxiously.
She better hadn’t. She keeps feeding, I don’t think I’ve quite got the hang of it yet.
Do I need to know about that?
Not if you don’t want to.
I’d rather not. I think I’m developing a squeamish streak.

I laughed. Wimp.
Can she see me?
She can’t focus yet. Talk to her though, let her know what you sound like.
Hello Alice, it’s nice to finally be able to see you, my number two girl. You would be my number one but I think your mother might object and it’s always a good thing to stay on her right side. Anyway you’re my number one little girl. Sharlie, she keeps grizzling at me.
You’ll have to get used to it
, I murmured sleepily.
Don’t go to sleep! What if she starts crying?
Becca’s still here, get her to help. She can teach you how to change a nappy.
He pulled a face. It’s a useful life skill. As is learning to wind a baby. He looked slightly alarmed. You signed up to fatherhood.
I know and I wouldn’t change it for the world
. He paused. Sharlie… she’s doing something alarming to my chest and I’m not sure…
I laughed and took her from him. Have to see if I can do better then.
Show off.
He snuggled down beneath the duvet. Doesn’t stop her being my Christmas miracle though.

A ray of hope flickers in the sky
A tiny star lights up way up high
All across the land, dawns a brand new morn
This comes to pass when a child is born

A silent wish sails the seven seas
The winds of change whisper in the trees
And the walls of doubt crumble, tossed and torn
This comes to pass when a child is born

A rosy hue settles all around
You've got the feel you're on solid ground
For a spell or two, no-one seems forlorn
This comes to pass when a child is born

It's all a dream, an illusion now
It must come true, sometime soon somehow
All across the land, dawns a brand new morn
This comes to pass when a child is born


***
Time for the Christmas break! I'm on A/L until 3 January sans internet-ish at the parentals. Merry Christmas everyone!

 


#207:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Dec 23, 2005 10:38 am


Pim that was so sweet - love Sharlie's protectiveness, and Colin's squeamishness - especially about Sharlie being sore down there! Laughing

Also love his reaction when Alice tried finding her next meal on him! Laughing

Have a lovely break and Merry Christmas!

 


#208:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Fri Dec 23, 2005 11:31 am


Thanks, Pim. The last few posts were so lovely. I'm glad that Sharlie finally told Colin and that Alice was delivered safely. I also loved Colin's reaction to Alice.

 


#209:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Fri Dec 23, 2005 11:43 am


Oh gorgeous - loved Colin's reactions - wanting to know, but well, not really when it came to it. Very Happy

 


#210:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Dec 23, 2005 2:32 pm


Lovely, Pim, thanks Very Happy

 


#211:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Fri Dec 23, 2005 5:25 pm


Typical male!! Laughing

Thank you Pim; enjoy christmas and come back with lots more drabble for us! Very Happy

 


#212:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Dec 23, 2005 6:54 pm


Absolutely completely wonderfully perfect Pim! Thank you sweetheart!

 


#213:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Tue Jan 03, 2006 9:35 am


Happy New Year peoples!

Lesley wrote:
Also love his reaction when Alice tried finding her next meal on him! Laughing


A little like mine when my nephewit thought he was getting his from my arm...

I spent Christmas Eve confined to bed and blissfully unaware of any chaos being caused downstairs by Colin and my sisters. Elizabeth had offered her house for Christmas Day as the result of Alice’s early arrival but, for the purely selfish reason that I didn’t want to be left out of things, I had been quite adamant that it would still be spent here. Colin took on the task of telephoning our closest friends during the course of the day and, in between having my attention demanded, I wrote to the others. The family spent the day popping in and out of mine and Colin’s room with the pretence of making sure that I was okay.

Aunt Jane, I said thoughtfully when that lady took her turn to visit and had settled with Alice in her arms.
That sounded purposeful.
It was. Colin and I have been thinking…
Careful
, she joked, her eyes twinkling.
Have you thought about what you’d like Alice to call you?
Aunt Jane, like the others do, of course. Or Great Aunt Jane, if she wants.
It’s just that’s an awful long thing for her to say.
Where’s this going?
Well Rupert’s her grandfather, or Gramps as he said he’d like to be called…
…so Alice can call him Grumps when he’s in a bad mood.

We both laughed. You see, the thing is, you’re the next best thing to a mother to me and the closest thing Alice will have to a grandmother so Colin and I thought you might want her to call you something closer to that… Aunt Jane?
She looked down at Alice and then back at me, her eyes shining. Oh Sharlie.
Sarah used to call Philip’s mother Gamma before she learned to say grandma properly, maybe…

She smiled. I like it. I’d be honoured for her to call me that.

I was allowed out of bed for a few hours on Christmas Day to share in dinner. Alice was the centre of attention, except with Jack, Peter and Daniel, all of whom declared that she was ‘just a girl’. Sarah, on the other hand, was ecstatic at being allowed to hold her new cousin and Claire somewhat put out that Rebecca wouldn’t let her do the same. I was surprised by how tired I felt even after a couple of hours and didn’t argue when Rebecca suggested that I go back to bed. Lying in bed listening to them all downstairs I found my mind drifting back to Sarah’s first Christmas. I remembered that it had been that Christmas had changed for us all. After everything that had happened before she was born Sarah was the sign of hope we needed. And now Alice had caused all the bad memories of the intervening years to pale into insignificance. I could only hope that she would never have to go through even the tiniest fraction of all that we had.

The house was strangely quiet when everybody left the following morning. Elizabeth promised to call round at tea time to make sure that everything was running smoothly and that Colin hadn’t managed to set fire to the kitchen. I had thought that being left alone with Alice would be worse than it was but I found myself coping remarkably well, much better than I would have ever predicted. Colin did more than his bit to help out but I had a funny feeling that it would take a lot to get him over his phobia of nappies. Our peace was shattered when Kathie descended mid afternoon, eager to see her goddaughter.

She’s great, isn’t she, she remarked from where she was sitting cross legged at the foot of my bed with Alice lying contentedly in her arms.
She’s not bad, I replied with a grin.
Excellent choice of name as well, Kathleen.
That’s her middle name.
I know that but it’s still an excellent choice. Are you sure about calling her Alice?

I nodded. It’s for Colin’s mother as well. It’s convenient them sharing a name.
Nancy’s hoping to get to see you in the next couple of days on her way up to Scotland. Did I tell you we’ve rented a remote cottage on the west coast for New Year. I promised some friends in Carlisle I’d call in on them on the way up hence why I’m descending on you now. Well, that and I thought I’d waited long enough to see my goddaughter. Babies are nice but she’s something extra special and her first kiss will always be from me.

I laughed. You’re incorrigible.
I know. And you wouldn’t have me any other way.

~Natality establishes a spiritual conversation of the living with the dead because their children, the remembrance of those they loved, moves across the boundaries of time. With birth comes a recreation of the past; the child brings back into the world the spirit of those who perished. The mother sees in her child an image of her dead mother and father~ James M. Glass, Jewish Resistance during the Holocaust: Moral Uses of Violence and Will

 


#214:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Jan 03, 2006 10:10 am


Lovely Pim. So good to see how happy Sharlie is, and what a lovely gesture for her to make to Aunt Jane.

 


#215:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 03, 2006 1:03 pm


Thanks, Pim. It's great to have this back and that was a lovely 1st Christmas for Alice. I'm glad Aunt Jane is going to be called 'Gamma' - that is really sweet.

 


#216:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Tue Jan 03, 2006 2:26 pm


I keep thinking radiation after gamma Embarassed Laughing

Thanks Pimmykins, I feel nice and gooey now Very Happy

 


#217:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Jan 03, 2006 4:45 pm


Awwww that was so sweet - I'm glad Sharlie isn't calling Alice that just to replace her other child. And it's so lovely of her to give Alice Kathie's name as a middle name.

Thank you Pim

 


#218:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 03, 2006 4:52 pm


Thank you pim! Loverly!

 


#219:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jan 03, 2006 8:08 pm


Just repeating the 'loverly' bits here Pim - that was special.

Thank you.

 


#220:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 03, 2006 9:25 pm


Thanks Pim Kiss

Liz

 


#221:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Wed Jan 04, 2006 9:21 am


Morning!

Colin and I opted for a quiet New Year on our own and it did feel a little strange to not be going to Cambridge to spend it with my friends. We spent New Year’s Eve talking over our dreams for Alice and the future. January passed with a steady stream of visitors all anxiously clamouring for that first glimpse of Alice. Nancy called in on her way up to meet Kathie for New Year and Lucy spent a few days after New Year before she had to get back to work in Oxford. Tish and Nicole also visited and Samantha, who had just turned ten, was completely enamoured. By the end of January I felt that I was quite well settled into motherhood. Alice and I were still working on our routines but we were getting there; we were developing an understanding. Colin was completely besotted, to the point of turning down work because he hated being away from her.

We travelled down to London the last weekend in January for Lily Beth’s wedding. She, Tash and Trixie had held off visiting because of this saying that they would see me at the wedding instead. We spent the day before at Esther and Robert’s along with Sara, Pedro, Soledad, who all adored Alice. Sara broke the news that their second was due in June and said that although they’d quite like a boy this time they would be happy with whatever happened. Robert and I talked a little over the work I had done on Anna’s story before Alice was born but he advised me not to rush back into it and take the time to enjoy Alice first. I knew he was right but part of me was itching to get back to work and get my brain working beyond feeds and nappies again.

Trixie had insisted that we stay with her for the wedding and I was pleased to see Christopher show the same distaste for Alice that he had done for his own sister, not that Catherine seemed any the worse for it. Tash and Josh stayed as well, bringing eighteen month old Andrew with them. Their second was due in March and Tash was complaining of going through a second awkward pregnancy. It seemed odd to think of so many of my friends being happily settled. I think in my head I still saw us all as either school girls or university students, not responsible wives, mothers or members of society.

Lily Beth married Martin Longfellow on the final Saturday of January 1962. It had been almost nine years since they had broken up following Trixie’s wedding but a chance meeting six months previously had reignited the old spark. After a whirlwind romance Martin had proposed and she had accepted without hesitation. There had never really been anyone in Lily Beth’s life since she and Martin had broken up so it made perfect sense that they were getting married at long last. Martin, on the other hand, had flittered from girl to girl unable to settle down with any one in particular because he had been waiting for someone else like Lily Beth.

The wedding was a lovely affair with both bride and groom clearly in love with each other. To avoid any awkward moments Will and I managed to steer clear of each other throughout the day. He and his wife didn’t look overly happy with each other but I decided against asking Trixie about it. I knew that when we had broken up Will had wanted more from me than I had been willing to give but I knew that I had made the right decision. I wouldn’t have changed Colin and Alice for the world.

 


#222:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 04, 2006 9:25 am


Another wedding and MORE babies....

Thank you pim.

 


#223:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 04, 2006 1:24 pm


Thanks, Pim. It's good that Martin and Lily Beth are back together and they have got married.

 


#224:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 04, 2006 1:39 pm


This is all so lovely Pim Very Happy

Liz (am I the only one with a feeling of impending doom?)

 


#225:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Jan 04, 2006 2:07 pm


Liz, shush!!!

Ta Pim! Good to see Sharlie happy with her lot and Will being a grumpy mare!

 


#226:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jan 04, 2006 6:44 pm


Almost feeling giulty about how smug I felt that Wil's having problems!

Thanks Pim.

 


#227:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Jan 04, 2006 8:12 pm


Pim, those were two wonderful posts!

It was so sweet of Sharlie to suggest Alice call Aunt Jane 'Gamma', and lovely to see all their friends popping in to meet Alice!

 


#228:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Thu Jan 05, 2006 9:46 am


Nell wrote:
Another wedding and MORE babies....


Can always rectify it for more deaths if you'd rather Wink

By the time Tash’s daughter, Poppy Maria, arrived in March I could barely remember a time before Alice. She had been christened in February to coincide with half term weekend so that Kathie could be in attendance. It had all gone smoothly and she hadn’t cried at any point during the service. Rupert’s photographs of the day were all wonderful and it was difficult to choose which ones to display in the house. Rupert was talking more and more of retiring now; he was suffering badly with arthritis in his hips and years of smoking had brought on a nasty cough that none of us liked the sound of. Aunt Jane said she couldn’t force him to do anything, least of all see a doctor but I knew she was more worried than she let on.

Colin had started building his work back up, largely so that he could continue to spoil Alice. He was wary about taking on projects that would take him away from home because he hated spending time away from her. Having Alice, however, meant that I didn’t mind his absences as much. I had made a gentle start on working on Anna’s story again but was often too distracted by Alice to make much headway. She never failed to fascinate me with the rate at which she was growing and changing. Each of Colin’s pictures of her in the early months is different; she is never the same in any two of them. I wanted to cling to her as a tiny baby even though I couldn’t. I loved the feeling of her total dependence on me. I would sit beside her cot for hours just watching her sleep, afraid to go too far away in case I missed anything. I wrote a lot in her nursery as she slept, inspired by the peace.

Elizabeth was pregnant again, her third due in July. The later months were difficult and she spent most of them in bed; Rebecca, Harriet and I were often at her house to keep an eye on her and the boys. In addition David and Louise’s second was due in September but she was progressing through pregnancy with an enviable ease. To see them now it was almost impossible to remember those initial months of their marriage. I was never completely convinced that they were in love but they certainly had a healthy respect for each other and they clearly doted on Jessica. I suspected that Louise was the one who put in most of the work to the marriage but didn’t say so.

Dear Sharlie,

Pedro and I have the son we hoped for: Friedrich Pablo Shalom Montañez. Friedrich for my brother, Pablo for Pedro’s and he will be Pablo for every day. Shalom is my mother’s choice, the Hebrew for peace and I hope that he will know only that in this otherwise restless world. Soledad adores him but is most disgruntled that we won’t let her hold him – she is only three years old after all!

My love to you, Colin and Alice.

Sara, Pedro, Soledad and Pablo


Simon James Watts arrived a month after Pablo, Elizabeth having spent the last days of her pregnancy in hospital where Simon had to be born by a Ceasarian. Elizabeth was really not well for several days afterwards and, somewhat traumatised by events, James instantly agreed when one of the first things she said after Simon was born was that she was never having another. I had to wonder if anything like that happened to me if I’d be able to make the decision with the ease that Elizabeth had. I didn’t think I would be able to.

 


#229:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 05, 2006 9:51 am


Thank you pimbles...

And I wasn't complaining about the babies!! Laughing

 


#230:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Jan 05, 2006 3:21 pm


Babies galore! Laughing

Poor Elizabeth though Sad

 


#231:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Jan 05, 2006 3:42 pm


I'm sorry Elizabeth had such a hard time, but 3 is probably quite enough!

Glad Sharlie's finding motherhood fairly easy. Thanks Pim

 


#232:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Jan 05, 2006 4:22 pm


Thanks Pim. Very Happy

Glad Sharlie's settling into motherhood so well.

 


#233:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 05, 2006 5:25 pm


Thanks, Pim. I'm glad that Elizabeth managed to get through the birth ok and that Alice is doing well.

 


#234:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jan 05, 2006 7:59 pm


Glad Sharlie is coping so well - don't like the sound of Rupert's cough though.....


Thanks Pim.

 


#235:  Author: AlexLocation: Cambs, UK PostPosted: Thu Jan 05, 2006 11:08 pm


I don't like the sound of the cough either, especially as Georgia hasn't had her wicked way since...hmmm...Peggy?

Thanks, Pim.

 


#236:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 9:17 am


Hmm, has anyone seen G of late... Ally?

So how’s the driving going?

The question was put to me by Nicole over lunch at Tish’s parents’ house. It was the final two weeks of August and we were honouring our time served tradition of a fortnight ‘s holiday at Tish’s parents’ home whilst they were away.

I pulled a face in reply. Awful. I just don’t get it at all. Colin’s refusing to plant anything in the front garden and I’m sure the neighbours deliberately stay indoors.
Lucy laughed and bounced Alice on her knee. You’ll get the hang of it eventually, even I did after the near misses with those dratted Oxford cyclists – yes Tish, I know I used to be one of them and still am on occasion!
Tish chuckled. Stick at it, Sharlie, it’ll make your life so much easier – and Alice’s.
She’s the only reason I’m putting myself through it. I swear that Colin’s patience decreases every time we go out. Enough of that though, I want to hear how Lucy’s book’s going.
It’s hardly ‘my’ book,
she retorted, blushing. It’s only putting together a bunch of papers and I’m not even doing that alone…
Yes, how is Christian,
put in Nicole as Lucy blushed a darker shade.
There’s nothing like that going on at all, Nic, she protested. You of all people ought to know that.
I met Christian last time Lucy was over in Cambridge working with him
, explained Nicole. He’s rather nice…
…but I don’t want pairing off with him, or anybody! I’ve got far too many other things on my mind right now. I just don’t think I’m the marrying sort – only to my work.
I used to say that,
grinned Tish. And look at me now all married and…
And what,
I asked.
Nothing.
Tish
, I wailed. You’re not allowed to keep secrets from us.
Tish grinned. It’s not one I’ll be able to keep well for long anyway.
Are you…
I began.
Pregnant? Yes.
Tish
, squealed Lucy, practically upsetting Alice off her knee as she lunged to fling her arms around Tish. That’s wonderful news!
It is
, I agreed from the other side of her. You must be thrilled.
We are, but…
But what,
asked Lucy.
Nic, asked Tish gently, the only one to have noticed that Nicole’s face had fallen at the news.
Nicole glanced up. I am pleased for you Tish, she said chokily. Only… Lawrie and I lost another baby last month, the fourth.
Oh Nicole
, I whispered. I’m sorry.
She shrugged. Nothing to be done about it. We’ve got Louisa, and Samantha, I should be pleased with what I’ve got, only every time… She stopped and shook herself. I’m not going to dwell on it now; sorry to have rained on your parade Tish.
Tish shook her head. Don’t be, she shrugged. I didn’t mean to bring it all up for you again.
It doesn’t matter.
When’s it due, Tish
, asked Lucy suddenly.
Oh, end of February, beginning of March time. I’m quite sure it’ll be late though.
What does Peter think of it all,
I put in.
He’s over the moon; he wouldn’t dare not be. She giggled. I can’t believe how grown up we all are these days. Do you realise that it’s 21 years in September since Sharlie joined us at Monica’s?
Tish
, groaned Nicole. I can always guarantee that it’s you who’ll make me feel my age the most.
It’s quite remarkable though
, said Lucy thoughtfully. I mean here we all are as close as we ever were at school…

She got no further as Samantha suddenly burst in with her empty plate demanding dessert. We had all come through so much together that I couldn’t bear to think of them not in my life.

 


#237:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 9:32 am


Meep! why are you asking me... *peers cautiously out from under her desk*

Thank you pimmy Very Happy

 


#238:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 10:18 am


And that query coupled with this line...

pim wrote:
We had all come through so much together that I couldn’t bear to think of them not in my life.


Meeps.

Thank you pimmy!

 


#239:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 1:46 pm


*joins the meeping*

Thanks Pim

Liz

 


#240:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:52 pm


Thanks, Pim. I'm pleased for Tish but I'm sorry for Nicole.

 


#241:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 5:07 pm


Crying or Very sad Must be hard for Nic to be happy when she's feeling so sad Sad

Thanks Pimdalula!

G - stay away from this!!

 


#242:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 7:57 pm


So sad - and that sort of news will always make it hurt more.

((((Nicole))))

and Mexican Wave Tish!

Thanks Pim.

 


#243:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 8:57 pm


I don't know why but I've a horrid, horrid feeling that these happy days are going to change soon... Confused
Otherwise lovely as always! Very Happy

 


#244:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 9:19 pm


The phrases "eeeeek" and "meeep" come to mind. Poor Nicole now Tish is adding to the baby boom too!

Thanks Pim

 


#245:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Mon Jan 09, 2006 9:24 am


Ally wrote:
Meep! why are you asking me... *peers cautiously out from under her desk*


Because you have a 'special' way avec G...

Colin, Alice and I were spending a few days at Trixie’s in London in September when Elizabeth telephoned to inform us of the arrival of David and Louise’s second daughter, Clover Jane. Elizabeth said that David had seemed a little disappointed, having been hoping for a boy this time. However, being the family man had been the incentive David had needed to stay on the straight and narrow. I thought back to all the alarms he had caused us as a teenager but Louise and National Service had seen him through.

Trixie and I were able to have a good catch up whilst Paul was out at work and Colin was out scouring London for the perfect photograph. I made my acquaintance with Tash’s six month old daughter, Poppy, and discovered that Lily Beth’s first was due at Christmas. She and Martin seemed happy; both Trixie and I had confessed to each other that we had been unsure as to how Lily Beth would manage giving everything up for marriage. She herself had admitted that it had been difficult to give up her career but she was looking forward to the next adventure that life was going to throw at her.

Autumn raced away from us and suddenly it was December with Alice’s first birthday fast approaching. I could scarcely believe that it had been a whole year and part of me felt sorry that I would never again be able to have that time with her but I looked forward to what her future would bring. Since she had been born I had found myself thinking more and more often about my parents and wondered what they would make of me now. I thought of Bridget and George too; how would life have treated them had they lived?

Lily Beth and Martin’s son, George William, was born on 10 December 1962, the first morning that I woke up with a familiar feeling of nausea and had spent most of it in the bathroom. The ensuing four days were the same, arousing a niggling suspicion in my mind.

Card from Lily Beth, said Colin through a mouthful of toothpaste as he stepped over me in the bathroom. I held my hand up for it.
It’s a boy, I muttered before being sick again.
Colin spat out his toothpaste. Are you sure you’re okay, he asked in concern. I shrugged. You’re not… pregnant, are you, he asked cautiously.
The possibility I had been pushing to one side suddenly became real. I don’t know, I replied truthfully. I suppose it’s a possibility.

I left Alice with Elizabeth that afternoon and went swimming for the first time in longer than I cared to admit to. I swam up and down the pool for most of the afternoon trying to formulate my thoughts. We had always planned to have more than one child; I just hadn’t expected the second so soon after Alice. I did want another one but I was scared, scared that because I loved Alice so much I wouldn’t be able to do the same to a second.

It took a few days for me to pluck up the courage to go to my doctor and it was the day before Alice’s first birthday when I was told that I was going to become a mother again. And I knew that this time I wouldn’t make the same mistakes that I had when I was pregnant with Alice.

 


#246:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Jan 09, 2006 9:35 am


Hmmmm, well that's wonderful - of course - except for the fact that G may be involved....

Thanks Pim - like the subtle little cliff there. Laughing

 


#247:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jan 09, 2006 12:30 pm


Thank you pim.

And yes, agreeing with Lesley!

 


#248:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Jan 09, 2006 12:33 pm


There have been an AWFUL lot of successful pregnancies lately, haven't there.....Georgia must be getting annoyed.

Well here's to another successful one party

Thanks Pim

 


#249:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Mon Jan 09, 2006 1:04 pm


francesn wrote:
There have been an AWFUL lot of successful pregnancies lately, haven't there.....Georgia must be getting annoyed.


*Runs to hide*

Francesn, shush! Exclamation

 


#250:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Jan 09, 2006 3:03 pm


t'ank you pim Very Happy

I wonder how Colin will take the big news? Although he's pretty much already in the know - tis different supposing and knowing though! Very Happy

 


#251:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Jan 09, 2006 10:05 pm


Thanks, Pim. I hope the pregnancy goes well.

 


#252:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Jan 09, 2006 11:02 pm


Thank you Pim.
I know what she means about the driving! David taught me to drive when James was a baby and we were living in Oxford! The thought of the roundabout on Headington Hill still makes me twitchy.

 


#253:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 10, 2006 12:23 am


Cath V-P wrote:
The thought of the roundabout on Headington Hill still makes me twitchy.

It's even worse these days Cath!

Thanks Pim Very Happy

Liz

 


#254:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Tue Jan 10, 2006 9:10 am


francesn wrote:
Georgia must be getting annoyed.


G is always annoyed...



Amidst the chaos of Christmas morning at Harriet’s, I entrusted Alice to my sisters’ care and dragged Colin upstairs to break the news to him.

Aren’t you meant to be helping downstairs, he asked. I don’t want to fall victim to Becca because I’ve taken you away from peeling sprouts.
I grinned. I have special permission to be away from the kitchen for a few minutes to talk to my husband. Besides, Caroline’s on sprout duty this year.
It sounds important then.
I’ve got a Christmas present for you, but it’s not one you can open in front of the family
.
He looked at me, confused. What do you mean?
I untucked my blouse from my skirt and undid the bottom buttons to expose my stomach, taking his hand and placing it on it. Your Christmas present’s in here, that’s why.
He stared at me for a few moments as realisation dawned and his face lit up. You’re pregnant? I nodded, barely able to stop myself smiling as he picked me up and spun me around.
Put me down you idiot; I’m not completely over the sick phase yet.
He set me down and kissed me. I’m sorry, I didn’t think. Oh Sharlie, it’s the best Christmas present you could have given me.
I only found out the day before Alice’s birthday and I knew I wanted to tell you for Christmas. What do you think?
I… I… It’s wonderful, if a little unexpected. I didn’t think it would be this soon after Alice.
No, neither did I but it’s not due until the end of August so I’d quite like to keep it our little secret for another couple of months yet. I mean, anything could happen…

He placed a finger over my lips to silence me. Whatever happens, happens and I’ll be here with you all the way. How do you feel about it?
I’m not quite sure yet. I am really happy but I’m still scared – not of losing it, or anything happening to me – but because I love Alice so much that I’m scared I won’t be able to love this baby as much.

He frowned. I hadn’t thought of that.
I suppose I’m just worrying unnecessarily. Becca certainly doesn’t love Jack, Claire or Billy any less because they’re younger than Sarah. And I’m sure it’s the same for Eliz and Harri. It’s just…
It doesn’t matter; it’s a bridge we’ll cross when we get to it.
He paused. It’s hard to know whether this Christmas is better than last.
They’re both the same but in different ways and I wouldn’t change either of them for anything.
I paused. I love you.
I love you too.
I don’t think I tell you often enough. Sometimes I get so wrapped up in Alice…
I understand. I don’t think I tell you often enough either.
But I know.
So do I. But it’s nice to be reminded.
He glanced at his watch. You’d best sort out your blouse then get back to sprout duty before I find myself at the top of your sisters’ hit list; especially if they find out that we’ve got a secret.

I ran back downstairs, my heart pounding and thinking that I might burst from happiness. Colin and I couldn’t help exchanging knowing glances throughout the course of the day, especially when we opened our presents knowing that there was one secret one between us.

 


#255:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 10, 2006 10:16 am


Thanks, Pim. That was a lovely scene between Colin and Sharlie.

 


#256:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 10, 2006 1:15 pm


Awwwwww how luffly!

Thanks Pim Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy

Liz

 


#257:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Jan 10, 2006 3:15 pm


yay!!! That was lovely Pim!

*stations self on guard in case Georgia comes sneaking around!*

 


#258:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Jan 10, 2006 9:18 pm


Thanks Pim! Very Happy

 


#259:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Jan 10, 2006 11:07 pm


Awww that was so cute

Thanks Pim

 


#260:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 4:00 am


Oh, that was nice Pim...surely nothing will go wrong?

 


#261:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 8:30 am


It wasn’t as easy being pregnant second time around; with Alice I’d only had myself to worry about. Alice, being at the age of discovery and exploration kept me on my toes thus leaving me quite unable to get the same amount of rest that I had don when expecting her. Colin did his best during the early months but he was faced with a number of deadlines for the magazines along with a sudden rush at the shop and wasn’t able to spend the time he wanted to at home. I’d got used to him being away from home more than we both liked but we knew that he couldn’t afford to turn down work.

Tish’s first, Benjamin Peter, arrived at the beginning of March, only a few days late. Since she and Peter were now based in Manchester it was easy enough for me to go and visit them on the train when I was able to find the time. As I’d thought, motherhood seemed to not faze Tish in the slightest, with she, Peter and Ben painting the picture of a contented family. On the other hand she did confess that she didn’t envy me in the coming months.

When Anna wrote to say she was coming to visit Robert and Esther in May, I took the opportunity to pay them a visit and divide my time between the Stewarts and Trixie. Trixie and Paul had added to the family for the fourth (and final, Trixie told me emphatically) time with their second daughter, Susanna Eve. Nine year old Christopher regarded his new sister with an air of indifference, six year old Catherine was fascinated by her whilst three year old Edward afforded her the extent of his affections, by poking her regularly, a trick no doubt learned from his elder brother.

Seeing Anna again reminded me how little work I had done since Christmas. Despite her protests that I needn’t worry and have Colin and Alice as my main priorities, my conscience still pricked. Interest in the survivors’ stories was tailing off more than either Professor Stewart or I liked. The 1960s were changing everything with the Cuban missile crisis two years previously having brought the ever present threat of nuclear war almost to reality. It still loomed dark and ugly in the background but the panic over Cuba had eased it slightly. People were too concerned about the present now to give much thought to the past.

What about you, Esther, asked Anna one afternoon. What about telling your story to the world?
She shook her head in reply. I gave my testimony to Yad Vashem and that’s enough for me. Belsen is my past; there are still very few people who know the truth about my life before and during the war. I prefer to keep it that way.
But what about Anna’s story,
I put in, setting my tea cup down with a clatter so I could pull Alice away from the curtains that she was attempting to either climb or pull down. I have to explain Belsen; you were there.
You have an imagination, Charlotte. Use it,
she snapped and I knew better than to press the matter. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to snap. Anna, it’s not that I don’t agree with what you’re doing but Belsen is my past and I want to keep it that way. I live with that experience every day of my life and that experience is now in Yad Vashem for the researchers so I can try and look ahead without it always pulling me back.
You know,
said Anna thoughtfully. Sara saw this by mistake last summer, she clasped her hand over her arm where her Auschwitz number lay tattooed. She wanted to know what the numbers meant.
What did you say
, I queried gently.
I changed the subject I’m ashamed to say. That’s why I need Sharlie to explain my past to my daughter. I’ve given my testimony to Yad Vashem as well but I want something more, not for me, but for my Sara so that she might try and understand. At that point Alice took it upon herself to crawl over to Anna and put her arms up for a cuddle from her. Anna picked her up and cradled her in her lap, smiling over her head at me. She’s intuitive, just like her mother.

 


#262:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 10:06 am


Thank you pim.

 


#263:  Author: KatieLocation: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 10:18 am


Hmm. A three year old with a penchant for poking people. Now why does that remind me of someone...?

 


#264:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 12:22 pm


Sad Thanks Pimmy!

 


#265:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 1:48 pm


Lovely Alice Very Happy

Thanks Pim

Liz

 


#266:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 2:44 pm


It's lovely seeing Sharlie catch up with everyone, and also to see Esther and Anna again.

Thanks Pim

 


#267:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 9:09 pm


Thanks, Pim. Alice sounds really sweet.

 


#268:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 9:46 pm


Thanks Pim, hope Sharlie can help Anna tell her story. Love the way Sharlie broke the news to Colin!

 


#269:  Author: GeorgiaLocation: my imagination PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 8:33 am


Larky larky Mwahwahwaha

 


#270:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 8:41 am


Eeeeeeeeeeeeek!!

*wibbles*

Liz

 


#271:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 9:02 am


Err... why can I no longer log in as Georgia? *wibbles violently*

Spring had slipped through my fingers for another year and the summer promised to be an unbearably hot one. I was looking forward to it though since Kathie and Nancy had promised a fortnight long visit to celebrate the beginning of the holidays. It would be the longest period of time that I had seen them since I had left the Chalet School even though I saw them almost every holiday it couldn’t quite replace having lived with them for so long. The three of us were forever bemoaning the fact that we didn’t get to see enough of each other, coupled with Kathie’s complaints that she was missing out on so much with Alice.

Alice was growing up too quickly for my liking and promised to turn into the blonde child who had so often haunted my dreams since the miscarriage. She had inherited Colin’s fair hair but in all other respects everyone said that she resembled me and I was beginning to realise his. In a way it was nice, if a little strange, to be putting a face to the child who had haunted me for so long. She was no talking nonsense nineteen to the dozen and I was resigned to my fate of being bossed around by an eighteen month old child. At the same time she was discovering the delights of exploration and I was beginning to feel the strain of being heavily pregnant and running around constantly after a small child. Not that I would change the situation.

The end of term was finally two days away and, having put Alice to be, I settled down with Colin on the settee, he with a pile of pictures to work through and I to doze.

I’ll get it, shall I, he asked as the telephone disturbed my sleep. He extricated himself from me and slipped away into the hall returning a moment later. It’s for you, it’s Nancy.
What does she want
, I asked as he helped me ease myself to my feet.
He shrugged. She didn’t say.
I padded out into the hall and picked up the telephone. Nancy?
Sharlie, I’m afraid I’ve got some bad news.

 


#272:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 9:08 am


*hoping desperately that it's just to say their visit is delayed by a couple of days*

*wibbling lots 'cos it probably isn't*

Thanks, Pim.

Liz

 


#273:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 9:33 am


Good cliff! Now, could it be Kathie? Something to do with the School?

Oh well, we'll find out eventually! Laughing

Thanks Pim.

 


#274:  Author: KatieLocation: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 9:46 am


I am disturbed both by the cliff hanger and the fact that you want to log in as Georgia. Something's not right here...

 


#275:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 10:26 am


Echoing Katie...and it maybe that you can't log-in as Georgia cos someone else ghas changed the password???

Hope the news isn't too bad. Thank you pim!

 


#276:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 1:24 pm


Kathie's appendix?

Thanks Pim! Feeling a tad sorry for Sharlie though Confused

 


#277:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 2:08 pm


Kat wrote:
Kathie's appendix?


But she doesn't have one does she...I thought we were now well after the end of the series?

 


#278:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 5:13 pm


Thanks, Pim. I'm really worried about what the bad news is.

 


#279:  Author: SquirrelLocation: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 7:38 pm


Hmph - get back on track after missing all since about christmas and find myself stuck on a cliff! Ah well, Pim will get us off that soon enough - whether or not she wants to post as georgia!

 


#280:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 8:17 pm


AAAARGH!!!!


PIMMMMMMMMM!!!!

 


#281:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 10:30 pm


Well, that was very nice up to the cliff....I hate heights!

Thank you Pim... Very Happy

 


#282:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 9:29 am


Nell wrote:
Kat wrote:
Kathie's appendix?


But she doesn't have one does she...I thought we were now well after the end of the series?


She might have two...

I felt my fingers tighten instinctively around the receiver. Nancy? What’s happened? Is it Kathie? Please tell me you two haven’t split up. Is it the school? Somebody…
Sharlie
, she snapped, halting my rambling. If you let me…
Sorry
, I muttered sheepishly. What’s happened?
It’s Kathie’s aunt and uncle…
Are they…
I could barely bring myself to finish the sentence.
Dead, yes, came the seemingly distant reply. Road accident, this morning.
Oh poor Kathie. Is she…
I don’t know; she won’t speak to anyone. She’s been in her room all day since the telephone call came, just sitting on her bed staring at the floor. She won’t even cry. No one can get her to talk.
She must be…
Devastated, and in shock. We’re flying back to London first thing in the morning. She needs to formally identify the…
she broke off, choking back a sob.
Oh Nancy. I felt so helpless on the other end of the telephone, unable to do anything. Is there anything I…
Would you be able to come to her aunt and uncle’s? Kathie’s going to need as many of her friends around her as possible.
Of course.
Bring Alice too.
I’ll talk to Colin.
I’m going to ring Lucy as well…
she broke off and I could hear her muttering to somebody in the background.
Nancy? Nance? Hello?
Hello?
The voice had changed.
Oh Kathie, I whispered.
Hello Sharlie. Her voice was flat and emotionless.
Kathie, I…
No need to say anything. Nancy says you’re coming tomorrow.
Yes.
I’ll make sure somebody meets you from the station if you let us know your plans.

There was another silence. Sharlie? I’m sorry, she’s just…
Nancy, don’t blame yourself.
But I…
I’ll see you tomorrow. Go to Kathie, she needs you even if she’s pretending she doesn’t.
Okay.
And Nance?
Yes?
Take care of yourself too, please.
I will.
I’ll see you both tomorrow.


I hung up and stood motionless in the hall, staring at the carpet unaware of Colin’s presence behind me.

Sharlie, sweetheart? I turned round to face him. What’s happened?
It’s Kathie’s aunt and Uncle, they’re… There was an accident. They’re both dead.
I couldn’t hold back the tears any longer. I’m sorry, I mumbled rubbing my eyes on my sleeve. I didn’t even know them; it’s more for Kathie…

He wrapped his arms around me as best we could manage and I buried my head against his chest.

Did you speak to Kathie?
Briefly, she’s not really… She’s in too much shock I think. They’re flying back in the morning and I…
You want to go?

I nodded. I have to.
I’ll drive you.
I can get the train.
In your condition? I’m not letting you go all the way to – Cheltenham, isn’t it – on the train, and certainly not if you’re taking Alice too.
What about the shop?
Father and Bill. I’ve no appointments for the next couple of days.
Are you sure?
Yes.
I felt his arms tighten around me. I love you.

 


#283:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 9:41 am


Aww. Poor Kathie and poor Nancy not knowing what to do or how to help - sometimes just being there is all you can do. Colin is showing once again what a true SLOC he is though.

Thank you pim.

 


#284:  Author: SquirrelLocation: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 11:36 am


Crying or Very sad Poor Kathie. Thankfully she has so many people surrounding her to help. I hope they can break through soon. And how nice it is for Sharlie that Colin can go with her.

Thanks Pim - I think...

 


#285:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 12:22 pm


Thanks, Pim. I'm sorry about Kathie's Aunt and Uncle. Sharlie is being a really supportive friend. I'm glad Colin is able to go and support her and everyone else as well.

 


#286:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 1:30 pm


pim wrote:
Nell wrote:
Kat wrote:
Kathie's appendix?


But she doesn't have one does she...I thought we were now well after the end of the series?


She might have two...


Oops? Very Happy But she could have two - we all know there are aliens at the Chalet School, and Kathie could well be one...

But that's for another story!

Crying or Very sad Nancy, be strong for her and Kathie, don't push your friends away, please Sad

 


#287:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 1:46 pm


Poor Kathie Crying or Very sad

Colin is such a wonderful SLOC!

Thanks, Pim

Liz

 


#288:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 3:59 pm


Poor poor Kathie.

Hopefully Sharlie will understand - she's lost both her mother and her father and that's really what Kathie's aunt and uncle were.

Thanks Pim

 


#289:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 5:29 pm


Eeek!!!!

Poor poor Kathie! I hope they can help her.


Thanks Pimmy!

 


#290:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 7:43 pm


Hope that Sharlie and Nancy will be able to help Kathie - it's not surprising she's in shock - they are, to all intents and purpose, her parents and sudden death gives you no time to prepare.

Hopefully the presence of Alice will help.

Thanks Pim.

 


#291:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 8:38 am


I doubt any of us slept well that night, if at all, and, following a call from Nancy with their flight times the next day, Colin and I set out for the village of Minchinhampton that had been Kathie’s home for so long. I couldn’t even begin to imagine how she would be feeling. I had lost my parents but at least I still had my sisters. We were greeted on arrival at Kathie’s aunt and uncle’s house by a white face Nancy whose eyes told of a sleepless night. Lucy had already arrived along with Janet, an old school friend of Kathie’s. Kathie greeted us briefly, her face as expressionless as her voice had been on the telephone the previous night. She asked if she could have Alice for a little while and I agreed, hoping that she could help in some way. Nancy and I sat outside the door to her bedroom for a while listening to Kathie and Alice talking nonsense to each other.

It’s not that I don’t want to talk to Lucy and Janet, explained Nancy as she guided me into one of the guest rooms and we sat down on the bed. But, well, they’re really Kathie’s friends whereas you’re both our friends. I just wish she’d talk to me.
How has she been since she identified them?
Worse, at least she was more or less managing monosyllables yesterday. Alice is the only person she’s managed to string a sentence together for. I wish I knew what to say to her but I can’t even begin to imagine what she must be going though. I’ve never lost anybody in this way. I still have my parents, my sister, my brothers, I’m lucky. Her uncle had been ill again, you know. They were on their way for his check up at the hospital when…
she broke off and choked back a sob. I slipped my arm around her shoulders. I don’t want to leave her but I have plans for most of the summer once the fortnight we were supposed to be coming to your house is over. I hate having to hide our relationship away like it’s some dirty little secret. She broke off as I put my hand on my stomach. Are you okay?
I winced, bit my lip and nodded. Just a twinge, I get them every now and again. I eased myself up and paced back and forth across the floor.
I’m sorry, I should never have expected you to come haring down the country in your condition.
I’m your friend Nancy. So is Kathie. You needed me and I couldn’t have borne it if I’d had to stay in Liverpool. You’re both like family to me
. I crossed over to where she was perched on the bed and kissed the top of her head. You both mean too much to me for me to not be here, whatever condition I’m in.

We carried on talking a little while longer until Colin disturbed us to remind me that Alice would need feeding before I put her to bed. I translated that to mean that he wanted me to talk to Kathie because he felt uncomfortable doing so. Nancy headed back downstairs with Colin and I stood nervously at the door of Kathie’s room. I knocked softly on the door and hesitantly pushed it open. Kathie and Alive were both sitting on the floor involved in a private game with some toys that looked as though they belonged to Kathie.

Mama, said Alice looking up at me with her huge blue eyes as she crawled over to me.
Sorry, it’s time for her tea before I put her down for the night.
Kathie stared blankly at me for a few moments. Oh right, she said at length.
Alice held up her arms to me asking to be picked up. Do you mind… I began with a cursory glance at Alice. Kathie understood, stood and picked Alice up to hand her to me. Have you been a good girl for Auntie Kathie, I asked Alice.
She’s been perfect, whispered Kathie. Sharlie, I…
Sharlie
. Colin’s call from the foot of the stairs broke our embryonic conversation.
Can you fetch Alice, I called back down. He was beside me in a moment, took her from my arms and bounced off down the stairs. Kathie…
Don’t say it, please. I don’t want to hear how sorry anybody else is.
That’s why you wanted Alice?
She’s too little to understand.
I slipped my arm around her and rested her hand on my stomach. I know you’ve lost your parents but you have your own family now.
And you’re a part of that family, you and Nancy. I know we can’t replace your aunt and uncle, nobody can but I don’t want you to think that you’ve nowhere to go.


She said nothing, simply leaned her head against my shoulder. I wasn’t sure what it meant but I hoped it was a good sign.

 


#292:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 10:10 am


Poor Kathie and poor Nancy trying to hold it together for her. I hope that Sharlie can help.

Thank you pim.

 


#293:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 12:04 pm


Crying or Very sad That was lovely Pim, and so true. The last thing you need is people saying how sorry they are because it just doesn't translate to anything you're feeling.

Poor Kathie Sad

 


#294:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 8:01 pm


Poor Kathie, and poor nancy trying to cope. Of course it doesn't help that they have to keep their relationship a secret either.

Glad Sharlie and Alice were able to help.

Thanks Pim

(Minor worry - little twinge from Sharlie???)

 


#295:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 9:46 pm


Thanks, Pim. I'm sorry that the relationship cannot be out in the open and Kathie has no other family apart from Nancy.

 


#296:  Author: DawnLocation: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 11:36 pm


Crying or Very sad

(((((Kathie and Nancy))))))

Babies can be the best comfortors ever - they trust you and don't ask anything except your love

 


#297:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Jan 17, 2006 1:25 am


Thank you Pim. That was very moving, and so restrained. Kathie is in a very cold and lonely place at the moment....

 


#298:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Tue Jan 17, 2006 9:15 am


After some discussion and a lot of gentle persuasion, Kathie agreed to spending the summer in Liverpool with Colin and I. In the run up to the funeral nobody had had any success in getting her to open up and it was visibly upsetting Nancy, who headed off to visit her family as we made preparations to go back north. She promised to come and visit as soon as she was free of commitments. Despite the fact that it was hard to talk to her, having Kathie around the house made things a lot easier on me as she took charge of Alice thus allowing me some much needed rest. I was worried by her reluctance to talk but I knew better than to try and press her too much in fear of pushing her away.

It was the beginning of what promised to be a stiflingly hot August and Kathie had been with us almost a month. Colin was working at the shop whilst she was indoors playing with Alice. I had been plagued by niggling pains in my stomach since I’d awoken that morning, subconsciously I knew that they were contractions but I pushed the thought to the back of my mind until lunchtime when I realised I could no longer go on fooling myself. I decided to take a quick walk around the garden to put my thoughts in order and tried to work out the best way to tell Kathie without alarming her. In the end I think she was more alarmed when she stepped outside to ask what I wanted for lunch just as the pain got too much, my knees buckled and I slid down the trunk of the apple tree at the bottom of the garden that I had been leaning against.

Sharlie, she gasped, rushing over and kneeling beside me. What’s the matter?
The baby’s coming
, I stammered as the pain subsided.
But it’s too early.
Only about ten days, same as Alice, and it’s beside the point.

She stood up and held her hand out to me. Come on.
Come on what?
I need to get you inside. You can hardly have it out here.
Who says I can’t
, I groaned, arching my back as a new contraction hit me.
Common sense and dignity, you goop.
Kathie, I can’t.
You have to, please.
I can’t,
I whimpered as the pain went away.
I’m not having this argument with you. I’ll get you inside, pop you in bed and go for help.
You can’t leave me.
I’m going to have to. I can’t do this on my own. I don’t know what I’m doing.


Reluctantly I allowed her to pull me to my feet and we walked slowly back to the house. It took us a while to get up the stairs as the pain was beginning to get too much and I was starting to feel exhausted. Eventually we made it to my room, Kathie flung a towel on the edge of the bed and sat me on it.

Who do you want, she asked as she hovered nervously in the doorway.
Eliz or Harri, there’s not a cat in hell’s chance we can get Becca here. And the midwife – the address is on the table in the hall.
I’m taking Alice. It isn’t fair for her to be here with you like this.


I nodded as she waved and left the room. I got back up and made my way over to the chest of drawers and rummaged through them to find a nightshirt and changed into it. The contractions were coming ever more frequently and I was feeling increasingly panicked, casting anxious glances to my watch to see how long Kathie had been gone. I gave a sharp cry of surprise as my waters broke just as I heard the front door slam and then Kathie’s voice before her step on the stairs.

Oh my God… what… she began.
Where is everybody, I asked as another contraction cut through me.
Neither Elizabeth nor Harriet was home, I left notes.
The midwife?
She clapped a hand to her mouth. You didn’t go?
I forgot.
You forgot?
I left the address… Oh God, Alice,
she groaned, hearing her begin crying,
Alice is here?
What was I meant to do? Leave her on the doorstep? Look, I’ll sort her out and then go for the midwife.
There isn’t time for you to go again.
What do you mean?
My waters just broke, there’s next to no time between the contractions and I need to push. There isn’t time for you to fetch the midwife.

Kathie went white. You mean I…

I nodded, unable to say anything through the pain but noticing her terrified expression.

 


#299:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jan 17, 2006 10:08 am


Shocked Poor both of them!

*They'll be all right*

*They'll be all right*

*They'll be all right*

 


#300:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Jan 17, 2006 10:16 am


Can't Kathie phone the midwife???
Please let it be a straight forward birth.

 


#301:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Tue Jan 17, 2006 2:35 pm


Come on Kathie, you can do this!

 


#302:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 17, 2006 3:20 pm


Thanks, Pim. I don't think Alice would have been too happy if she had been left on the doorstep! I hope the birth goes ok.

 


#303:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Jan 17, 2006 5:40 pm


Ulp!


*crosses things*

*looks round nervously in case Georgia is lurking anywhere!*

 


#304:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jan 17, 2006 8:02 pm


It should be OK - it's not like this is Sharlie's first - and it might help Kathie if she's successful.

Thanks Pim.










Ah, just remembered - my brother was mum's fourth and was born with cord round his neck......

 


#305:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Jan 17, 2006 8:39 pm


Lesley wrote:







Ah, just remembered - my brother was mum's fourth and was born with cord round his neck......





*debates POKING Lesley for giving Pim ideas!!!!*

 


#306:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Jan 17, 2006 10:49 pm


I'm sure Sharlie will be fine - although she does seem to have a penchant for not telling people when she's in labour!

 


#307:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 1:15 am


Argh. Just caught up on Kathie's tragic news. And here I thought Liz had Georgia safely distracted....

Hope Kathie handles things and/or help arrives quickly for a nice, safe delivery! Please?

 


#308:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 8:59 am


Of course my MummyLizard has G safely handled!!! I hope...

There was a prolonged silence between us only broken by Alice’s cries.

I have to go to her, Sharlie. We can’t leave her like that.

I agreed reluctantly and Kathie helped me up on to the bed, handing me a pillow from Colin’s side as I lay back against my own. Feeling another contraction begin, I buried my face in the pillow to try and stifle my cries. Eventually I realised that Alice had stopped crying and then heard Kathie running up the stairs.

She’s settled for now, she muttered on re-entering the room, still unnaturally pale. I glanced over the top of the pillow at her and squeaked. Sharlie… there… there’s an awful lot of blood, she stammered.
I know, I said, trying to catch my breath. It’s not a pretty experience.
She smiled weakly and perched on the bed at my feet. What do I do? I shrugged. That’s no help!
I don’t know. Harri did it all last time.


Neither of us quite remembers how we got through it, but we did. I only remember feeling too tired to go on and trying not to laugh at Kathie who had gone a delicate shade of green. She, in turn, only remembers it as a very blurry and hazy experience.

It’s a boy, it’s a boy, Kathie suddenly shouted in between giggles. I don’t believe it.

I looked over the top of the pillow I was still clutching to see Kathie holding my son out to me at arm’s length, a little like a tea tray. I couldn’t help myself and began laughing. She suddenly changed position and held him close to her.

Just ignore your mother laughing at you like that. I love you even if she doesn’t.
Can I hold him
, I asked, discarding the pillow and easing myself up.
Only if you promise not to laugh at him,
I promise.


Kathie hastily wrapped a towel around him and laid him in my arms. I stared in amazement unsure as to how I could have ever thought I wouldn’t be able to love him as much as I did Alice.

What are you calling him?
Kathie’s question broke my reverie. Luke, it’s for Colin’s brother. George, for mine, is going to be his middle name.
I thought Colin was an only one
.
I shook my head. Luke was his little brother; he was three years younger than Colin but he died when he was only a few weeks old.
Do you think…
What?
It doesn’t matter, that was the door.


She left me to ponder on her words as she left the room to answer the door to Harriet who bounded the stairs only to stand staring at me for a good few moments before demanding a hold of Luke, reminding me that he needed cleaning up. I grudgingly handed him over and allowed him to be whisked away. From the bathroom I could hear Harriet and Kathie talking but couldn’t quite make out what they were saying. I lay back against the pillows and chuckled to myself, wondering what Colin would say when he got home from work.

 


#309:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 9:50 am


Please let Hari and Kathie just be making general chit chat, and that they're not saying that there's something wrong with Luke... Confused

 


#310:  Author: SquirrelLocation: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 9:52 am


Well, that's quite an experience. One way to cut through Kathie's depression or whatnot for sure! She's going to have quite a bit to tell Nancy when she next see's her - and may feel happier talking about her aunt and uncle.

Thanks Pim

 


#311:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 10:32 am


*Echoes Cazx*

 


#312:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 1:48 pm


*crossing fingers and everything else* Hope he's ok - and that Sharlie doesn't develope any complications Shocked

 


#313:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 4:08 pm


Harriet stayed long enough to put me through a thorough bath and declared that Kathie had done a fine job of delivering Luke. That lady had brought Alice upstairs to be introduced to her new brother and I could hear her vainly trying to teach Alice to say ‘brother’. She had a little more success with Luke, however.

Couldn’t I get dressed and go downstairs to meet Colin from work, I asked Harriet as she helped me out of the bath and handed me my dressing gown.
She raised an eyebrow. How old are you?
I thought for a moment, tying the dressing gown. 33.
She sighed. Going on 13. I suppose, so long as you promise to go straight back to bed once you’ve given him his shock.
Yes Nurse Andrews,
I replied with a grin.

Having seen me downstairs and settled on the settee, Harriet left. She was followed shortly by the midwife who gave us both the all clear, congratulating Kathie on a job well done at the same time. Left alone with Kathie and the children I sensed that she was beginning to want to talk but disappeared to make herself a cup of tea.

Are you okay, I asked on her return. I’m sorry you had to go through that with me.
Don’t be
, she whispered. Nancy will be hopping mad though that I was there when her godson was born. She managed a weak smile before bursting into tears.

I manoeuvred Luke so that he was cradled in one arm and held my other out to her. She curled up against me and sobbed. There was nothing I could do but hold her. Eventually she pulled away from me, rubbing her eyes on the back of her hand.

Sorry, she whispered, reaching down to pick up Alice who was demanding to be cuddled.
Don’t be, I settled Luke back in both my arms. You are allowed to cry.
It’s just… I’ve been feeling so all alone since Auntie and Uncle died and now… I suppose it’s just beginning to make a little more sense.
What is?
Oh the great cycle of life. Alice, no,
she broke off to pull Alice’s arm back as she made a valiant attempt to prod Luke’s foot. We both laughed.
I’ll have to get used to that, I guess.
I envy you sometimes, you know, all this – house, husband, children. I know I’ve got Nancy but sometimes… I’ve been such an idiot towards her, you know. I kept pushing her away when I needed her the most.
She does understand.
She puts up with too much from me. She must be a saint, admittedly with a slightly wonky halo.
She smiled. I’ll phone her this evening and talk to her properly. You don’t mind me running up your phone bill, do you?
Not in the name of a good cause.
I’ve always been terrified of being alone, that’s why I pushed everyone away. I know it was stupid but I just didn’t know what to do.
She leant against my shoulder and sighed. If you ever need a replacement Colin, may I be first in line?
I laughed. I think he’s irreplaceable.
Oh well. You know, Sharlie, you really scared me earlier.
I know.
How?
You were a rather unnatural white with a green tinge.
I wish I’d seen myself then. No, I mean I was scared, really scared. It must have been the blood. I just kept thinking about my mother and what it must have been like for her.
Oh Kathie, I completely forgot.
I don’t think you were in any fit state to remember your name even. Can we swap or will it disturb him?
She held her arms out for Luke who stirred a little as I passed him over but fell straight back to sleep once settled in her arms. I lifted Alice into my lap and cuddled her tightly.
I didn’t think I’d be able to love Luke as much as I love Alice but I was wrong. I’m glad you were there though; it meant a lot, even if I did scare you.
I did love being there; it is something quite special isn’t it – watching a new life come into the world. He’s got so much to learn and you have so much to teach him. I always knew you’d be a great mother from that first term of mine at the Chalet School.
Really?
Oh yes. We were up in the meadow with the Thirds one afternoon quite early on in term and Anneliese Richter fell over and hurt herself. She was crying her eyes out and you were brilliant. You just held her and kept telling her it was all going to be okay. She sat with you for the rest of the afternoon and you were both talking but you still knew exactly what all the others were doing. I knew then that you’d make a wonderful mother one day.
Gosh,
I said in reply. I’d forgotten about that.
Good job I…
she began. That’s Colin home.

As agreed, she handed Luke back to me and sat Alice beside me on the settee, handing her a small stuffed toy before slipping away to the kitchen.

I’m home, I heard Colin call.
I’m in here.
Have you had a…
he broke off on entering the room. Wha…
Don’t just stand there like an idiot, come and have a look at your son.

He stared at me in disbelief then crossed over to me. You really do have a way of imparting news, he sighed as I handed Luke to him and pulled Alice on to my lap so he could sit beside me.

***
Am on leave for the rest of the week now. See you Monday! Try not to miss me *g*

 


#314:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 4:12 pm


Piiim! You can't go!! That's a whole 5 days til we get more! Crying or Very sad

Loved that little bit though! Still think we need more... Wink

Enjoy your leave! Very Happy

 


#315:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 5:58 pm


Poor Colin - must have been a bit of a shock!

Pim that was lovely - and so glad that Kathie was able to cry and to talk - hope she speaks to Nancy soon.

Thank you.

 


#316:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 10:01 pm


I'm glad nothing nasty happened!
Have a good few days Pim. Very Happy

 


#317:  Author: Cath V-PLocation: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 11:00 pm


Thank you Pim, that was very moving. Poor Kathie slowly emerging from her pain and solitude, and aware of how she needs Nancy.

Yes, I think Colin might have been just a bit surprised!

 


#318:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 19, 2006 12:06 am


Phew! I've caught up from Sharlie's first days at college. I love Alice proding Luke's foot, my toddler's convined that his newborn cousin can come and play on the floor with him and gets very cross when we won't put the baby on the floor for him.

 


#319:  Author: SquirrelLocation: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Thu Jan 19, 2006 10:50 am


I'm glad that Kathie is beginning to talk to Sharlie now - and she is going to phone Nancy - that is positive news.

Colins homecoming was also great.

Thanks Pim, hope you enjoyed the time off.

 


#320:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 19, 2006 1:51 pm


Thanks Pim

Glad Luke has arrived safely, and that Kathie has begun to open up a bit.

Enjoy your leave Very Happy

Liz

 


#321:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 19, 2006 5:19 pm


Thanks, Pim. I hope you have a good leave. I'm glad Luke was delivered safely and that Kathie is ready to talk to Nancy.

 


#322:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Jan 19, 2006 7:22 pm


Aww thank you Sharlie.

I'm so glad Luke was born safely!

 


#323:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Jan 19, 2006 8:30 pm


Thank you Pim!!!

So glad Sharlie and Luke are both okay, and that Kathie is opening up again.
Poor Colin though! What a shock!

 


#324:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Mon Jan 23, 2006 9:05 am


You love me though really, I said in retaliation with a grin as I leant against his shoulder. He kissed the top of my head.
Of course I do.
What do you think of him? Didn’t do too bad, did I?
You did perfectly, again.
All seven pounds of him, at least we think. Kathie tried weighing him in the kitchen scales…
You two are…
Yes?
I don’t think I’ll finish that sentence.
Wise move. I doubt the adjective you have in mind is overly flattering.
Are you in much pain?
As much as I was last time but at least I knew what I had coming to me this time.
What does Alice think?
I’m not overly sure she understands.
Alice?

On hearing her name Alice turned round in my lap to look at Colin intently. Daddy, she said purposefully. Luke. Before I could stop her she had reached out and poked Luke’s foot.
Alice, no, I said pulling her hand away. We don’t poke Luke, it isn’t nice.
Not nice
, she repeated. Mama, she said, her eyes wide. Luke. She pointed to him this time and then said something which vaguely sounded like brother. I wrapped my arms around her and she cuddled up against me.
We ought to get a dog, Colin announced suddenly.
What on earth…
I was sitting here thinking how much of a family we are – you, me, children. We ought to have a dog. I always had a dog when I was growing up.
And who exactly would look after this dog? It would be me and it’s not exactly what I had in mind with Alice walking properly now and getting everywhere not to mention a small baby who only has feeding, filling nappies and sleeping on his mind.
What about when they’re older then?
We’ll talk about it then.
Has the midwife been?

I nodded. She popped in about half an hour before you got home to give us both the all clear. Kathie did a great job.
Kathie?
Mmm. It all happened a bit quickly. Remind me to tell you about it sometime,
I murmured sleepily.
Where is she?
Kitchen, she was going to sort something out for dinner for you two.
What about you?
Not really hungry.
How is she?
A bit shaky still, I think. I’m not completely sure it was quite how she planned on spending her day.
N-oo. I would imagine not.
I think it might have helped though. She was talking a bit more afterwards.
I yawned.
Do you want to go to bed?
I suppose I ought to.
Kathie!
What do you think then,
she demanded as she bounded into the room. Didn’t do a bad job, did I? I might have to rethink my career.
We all laughed. Thank you, said Colin. You did a wonderful job.
Glad I could help.
Do you mind watching Alice a minute? I’m going to put Sharlie to bed.
Of course not,
she replied taking Alice from me and putting her back amongst her toys before helping me up. You have a good nap. I’ll bring your dinner up later when it’s ready.

Colin,
I muttered sleepily as he tucked the covers around me.
What? Can I get you something? Does it hurt? Do you…
Shh. I just wanted to tell you how happy I am.

He perched on the edge of the bed and stroked my hair. Me too.
Is Luke sleeping?
Like a baby.
Bad joke.
I know. It’s the way I tell them.


He ruffled my hair, kissed my forehead, readjusted the covers in Luke’s crib and slipped silently from the room as I drifted into a contented sleep.

 


#325:  Author: DawnLocation: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Mon Jan 23, 2006 7:48 pm


Awwwww - very luffly update Pim - thankyou

 


#326:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Jan 23, 2006 8:02 pm


Phew! You had me worried there a few times, Pim! Lovely posts, though.

Welcome to Luke!

 


#327:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Jan 23, 2006 8:33 pm


Thanks, Pim. That was so, so lovely.

 


#328:  Author: pimLocation: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 8:51 am


Nancy arrived a couple of later to see her new godson and found Kathie somewhat less lost than the last time she had seen her. Kathie and I had talked a lot over the previous couple of days and I hoped that she would continue to do so when Nancy arrived. Nancy stayed for the best part of a week and the two of them spent a lot of time together, sometimes taking Alice and Luke, to talk things over. I could tell that Nancy was happier now that Kathie had begun to open up even if there were times when they were still skirting around things. Kathie was adamant that she would return to school for the start of term even though both Nancy and I weren’t convinced that she was fit for it.

Lucy, Tish and Nicole with accompanying children came to spend the last week in August. It was a departure from our usual fortnight at Tish’s parents but I wasn’t too enthralled by the prospect of such a long journey and Colin looked a little overwhelmed by the thought of having them all stay for a fortnight. The two days before their arrival saw the house as a hive of activity whilst Colin and Kathie rearranged the upstairs of the house to try and fit everyone in. We moved Alice back in with us so that Samantha and Louisa could have her room. Lucy would go on the camp bed in Kathie’s room whilst Tish, Nicole and baby Ben would share the spare room. It left the study free as an escape route for anyone wanting a little peace and quiet.

Samantha, now 12, had finished her first year at grammar school having sailed through her 11+ examinations. Nicole admitted that she had toyed with the idea of sending her to St Monica’s, after all boarding school had been the done thing for us, but realised that she would miss her too much. Samantha quite happily spent most of her week at Rebecca’s renewing a friendship with Sarah who had turned 14 that Easter, not that the age difference had any effect on their friendship. I couldn’t help but wonder, however, how different Sarah would be if she had the advantages afforded to Samantha. I had saved from my salary to put towards an education from her but it had been clear from a young age that Sarah was not academically inclined and Rebecca and I had decided it would be better to leave it until she was older. Despite that Sarah adored children and was quite sure that she would have no trouble finding a job working with them when she left school. Samantha would be staying at school until old enough to be taken on as a nurse probationer, a career she had wanted from a young age. There were times when I could scarcely believe how quickly they were both growing up.

Kathie returned to school at the beginning of term under the strict instruction not to overdo things. I suddenly felt quite alone without her during the daytime and only Alice and Luke for company. I had become quite used to her presence. Settling Luke into a routine was trickier than it had been with Alice since I was trying to work around her as well and there were times when I felt as though I was going round in endless circles. I often wondered how people juggled more than one child and a home. I often found myself running on autopilot having spent most of the night awake with Luke and then having to get up early with Alice. Colin helped where he could, but we both knew that he couldn’t afford to turn down work to help at home. I knew I would cope once we were all settled; my sisters had all managed it so I would too.

We should go, Colin announced one evening at the end of October, casually dropping a letter in my lap.
I was settled in the rocking chair in our room feeding Luke. You read my letter from Trix?
You left it lying on the kitchen table, you goop. Anyone could have read it. Anyway we should take up the invitation to go for a few days. You keep moaning that you haven’t seen Trixie in an age.
I could use the break, I suppose,
I admitted. And it’s true, I haven’t seen her in months. She hasn’t seen Luke yet.
And you’d get to see Tash’s latest effort.
Freddie, not an effort, the poor child does have a name. You’d be mortified if someone referred to Luke as ‘Colin and Sharlie’s latest effort’.
True,
he said with a shrug. So let’s go to London then. We can go next weekend – there’s some tedious photographers dinner of some description that I can go to and you’ve got the perfect excuse to not be there hanging on to my arm all night.
I looked down at Luke and smiled. Okay, let’s go to London.

 


#329:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 9:22 am


Hope the trip goes well and that Sharlie gets time to relax! Very Happy

 


#330:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 12:46 pm


Thanks, Pim. I'm glad that Nancy and Kathie have sorted things out and Kathie has been able to return to work. I hope they have a good time in London.

 


#331:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 1:50 pm


Awwwww - they are such a lovely family.

Hope they have a wonderful trip to London Very Happy

Thanks Pim

Liz

 


#332:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 5:20 pm


awwwww!!!!
Tis all luffly Pim! Thank you!

 




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