The CBB :: View topic - Joey's Wonderful Life

Joey's Wonderful Life

The CBB -> Cookies & Drabbles

#501: Author: keren,

Posted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 6:21 pm

that was a very nice piece of writing.

I can't believe how gifted people on this board are.

#502: Author: Suse,

Posted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 6:22 pm

Amazing, I look forward to reading a bit more of this every day. You have done a terrific job with this Rachael; it's very realistic and true to EBD.

#503: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 7:26 pm

That was truly amazing, Rachael. Thank you.

#504: Author: ellend, Location: Bow, London

Posted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 9:49 pm

*worried by Lesley's comments* Is there more grief and pain to come?

Begining to worry again.

Ellen

#505: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 12:18 am

That must have been so hard for Nell! Crying or Very sad

(not to mention Rachael)

Continuing to worry....between Lesley's comments and Jo's "You’ve barely referred to Hilda and you haven’t mentioned Nell or Con at all …”

*tries to remember that Therese comes highly recommended for this job*

#506: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 12:38 am

I've just read this all in one go and - WOW! This is wonderful Rachael - I knew Joey's non-existence would have far-reaching effects (I'm a huge fan of 'what-ifs'), but you've thought this through so carefully and it must have been so difficult to write. I've just had tears running down my face. Can't wait for the next installment!

(how am I doing with being subtle?) Happy Angel

#507: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 1:07 am

Reaction to Lesley's first comment! = Hiding

#508: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 8:21 am

“And good for you, Nell!” declared Joey with relief, having barely drawn breath throughout this exchange. “I knew she’d be able to get through to Anne but Therese, I’m worried about her. She’s looking very gaunt … is she eating properly? And she’s suppressing her emotions … that can’t be healthy … I don’t like it … I know Con was her closest her friend and this is terribly tragic but she does get over this, doesn’t she? Where’s Hilda in all of this? If no one else can help Nell, surely she can?”
“Hilda is able to help, certainly … to some extent …” Mademoiselle picked her words carefully. “But Nell’s suffering went deep, Joey, much deeper than anyone could appreciate … but look … you shall see for yourself …”

Pausing outside Nell Wilson’s door, Hilda Annersley reflected that despite the number of interviews she had conducted with recalcitrant children, this would be her most challenging intervention to date. Like all the staff, she had been dismayed and shocked by the news of Con’s death but Hilda guessed that the anguish Nell must be enduring would be unbearable. Discussing her concerns with Madge, the Headmistress had encouraged Hilda to do what she could, recognising that after Con, Hilda was the closest friend Nell had in the school. Neither woman had confided their worst fears, but they both had grave concerns about their colleague. Outwardly, Nell was displaying a professional image but occasionally, when she thought no one was looking, that mask had slipped and both Hilda and Madge had seen her very real desolation. Hilda had some private doubts as to whether she could help her friend but she was determined. She had prayed that she might do her best to support the woman inside and now she must trust in a higher authority that she would find the way to be a worthy friend.

At first there was no reply to her knock but just as she raised her hand to try again she heard movement from within the room and the door was opened.
“Hilda?”
“Hello Nell, I hope you don’t mind me stopping by … I was after some milk … I seem to have used mine up …” Hilda finished, conscious that her pretext was flimsy in the extreme.
“You’d better come in then” replied Nell sardonically.
Following her into the room, Hilda observed that it was very dark despite the dusk outside. Nell had obviously chosen not to switch on her electric light and from the chair positioned looking out of the window it was clear that she had been sitting brooding and that she had probably been doing this every night, declining every invitation to join the other mistresses in their free time. Accepting the offer of a cup of coffee, Hilda availed herself of the other chair and waited. Nell was playing the part of hostess but Hilda’s keen eyes noted the languid movements and preoccupied manner, so out of character from this brisk, capable woman. Alarmed, she vowed again to break through the veneer, to help Nell grieve and to come to terms with her loss.

#509: Author: Liss, Location: Harrow, London

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 8:23 am

*bites nails*

I'm really alarmed that Hilda's not going to be able to get through to her...

#510: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 11:36 am

If Hilda does get through, we're in for a very emotional scene. If she doesn't ..... *joins the nail biting brigade*

#511: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 11:46 am

Reading these last few episodes I feel like I'm being slowly stretched out, tenser and tenser. Powerful stuff. Crying

#512: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 12:41 pm

Im really worried too. I hope Hilda will help but I'm just not sure

#513: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 12:45 pm

At least Nell got through to Anne. Hope Hilda can do the same for Nell.

Thank you Rachael this must have been really wracking to write.

#514: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 1:07 pm

Rachael, I'm scared!!! Hiding

Please post the next bit soon!!!

#515: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 2:18 pm

Joins Vikki in hiding cos I'm scared too Hiding

Rachael, I think each part you write should come with an emotional health warning on a scale of say 1-10 at the top.
Currently it feels like we're on about 9.5, but I'm worried we're only on a 7

#516: Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:08 pm

That was so brave of Nell. And I should think she left the room very hastily after what Anne said about how she must be missing Con. However much she could say all that about teaching being a vocation, there must still be a significant part of her rebelling against what happened. And what a burden for Hilda - after all, it must have been hard enough for Nell in the "real" series when Con left, but here...

#517: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:12 pm

This shows the characters' emotions so well, Rachael.

#518: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:27 pm

“I suppose you’ve come to see how I am?” Nell was the first to speak. “I’m all right, Hilda, really I am … I won’t pretend I don’t miss Con, of course I do … but the routine of school life is helping and I’m getting through each day …”
“Are you?” The question was simple but loaded.
Nell bristled. “Are you suggesting that I’m not? I’ve certainly had no complaints about my teaching …”
Hilda held up her hands to stop the indignant flow although she was relieved to see that her friend had at least been jolted from her lassitude.
“Nell, please … no one is questioning your conduct or professionalism ... quite the contrary … but we are concerned about your well-being. You’ve barely picked at your food for weeks, you retreat from any social gathering at the first opportunity and you’re clearly operating under a great deal of stress …”
“I appreciate the concern, Hilda but like I said … I’m fine …I can handle this …”
“Of course you can, Nell” and piercing eyes met reluctant grey. “But don’t shut out your friends … we only want to help … both for your sake and Con’s …”
“Con’s?” interrupted Nell.
“Do you think she would want to see you like this or watch the rest of us standing by, not wanting to interfere?

Silence descended on the small room. For once Nell Wilson had no response to make.
“Talk to me, Nell … it isn’t healthy to keep your feelings bottled up in this way … we both know that …”
“What’s there to say, Hilda? Con is dead and in time I’ll adjust to that … it’s just going to take me a little while, that’s all …” The tones were very measured.
“Of course it is but you have to give yourself that time, Nell, you need to grieve properly …”
“I am grieving … every day …”
“I’m not so sure, Nell. I don’t think you’re allowing yourself to grieve … you’re keeping everything in check … it’s not natural …”
“I’m not the sort of person who falls to pieces, Hilda. This is my way of coping with it … believe me, I know it works …”
A wave of compassion washed over Hilda. She knew that Nell had no family and that her parents and younger sister had all died within a year of each other when she was only twenty-two. This must have been how Nell had dealt with those deaths. Isolating herself from those that could help her and internalising her grief, she would have soldiered on, refusing to display any sign of a weakness only she perceived. Having known loss herself at an early age, Hilda was all too aware of the need to face one’s sorrow because it had been some years before she herself had been able to come to terms with the circumstances of her own mother’s death. Now, she recognised Nell’s heartache and whilst she yearned to alleviate that pain, she also knew that Nell could be implacable.

Taking a deep breath, she tried again.
“I accept that this is none of my business, Nell but I don’t believe that your “way” is coping with it, or at least not fully …” Then as Nell tried to interject, “Let me finish, Nell. I want you to understand something and if it’s difficult to hear, I apologise, but I’m telling you this because I care and because I know a little of what you’re going through …”
Nell subsided with a sharp nod.
“When someone close to you dies, it undoubtedly helps to take some refuge in routine … sleeping, eating, going about your daily activities … but functioning on just that basic level is not enough … it is perfectly acceptable and normal to get angry … to ask questions, to demand answers, to rail against the injustice of it … perhaps even to question God …”
Hilda paused here, remembering her own fury at the intangible being whom she had held responsible for the death of her mother. She was hesitant about discussing the issue of faith with Nell. Both women were deeply religious but although they respected each other’s beliefs, they generally chose not to debate the finer details of the Church, conscious that their very different paths might ultimately lead to conflict. On this occasion, Nell was able to meet her half way.
“I know what you’re trying to say, Hilda and again I appreciate your concern and that you’re trying to help … but I don’t believe you fully know me. I have questioned my faith … every day since…since this happened but it’s also been the one thing that I could turn to and which has given me the strength to carry on. Hilda, I look at you and I see your worry … you think that I should be more demonstrative in my grief … that someone who you see as forceful and opinionated would be more open about their feelings … but I’m not like that. Hilda, I can’t break down in front of other people … it’s too personal … but that doesn’t mean I’m not mourning Con … believe me, when I switch off the light and everything’s in darkness, I feel more alone that I’ve ever felt before … and if you want to know the truth, I’ve cried myself to sleep almost every night with wishing that she could be here …” Nell stopped awkwardly, conscious that she had divulged more than she intended.

Inwardly, Hilda kicked herself. They may only have known each other for two or three years but she should have recognised that Nell’s usually confident, spirited demeanour was sustained not only by a rock solid foundation in terms of her faith but also an intensely private side to which she could retreat.
“Forgive me, Nell, I should have realised everything that you’ve said and you’re right when you say that I don’t know you … I don’t … although one day, if you’d let me, I’d like to try … but right now, I wish, with all my heart, that I could somehow offer you the comfort you would have got from Con”
Silence resumed but Hilda persevered.
“But there’s more to this than your actual loss, isn’t there? What is it, Nell?”
For a moment, the figure in the chair held Hilda’s gaze, as though she wanted to confide in her but could not find the words. Then Nell turned away towards the window.
“Are you blaming yourself for not being able to hold her?”
Nell stiffened, drawing herself up in her chair but not before Hilda saw the involuntary flinch. For a moment, it looked as though she might lash out but then she suddenly relaxed and for the first time since the accident she began to talk.
“I promised her that everything would be all right, Hilda … that help was coming … that we just had to hold on for a few minutes … and then she was gone. I failed her, it’s as simple as that …” The grey eyes hardened.
“No, Nell … never! You didn’t fail anyone … you held on with everything you had … you mustn’t blame yourself like this …” Instinctively, Hilda moved from her chair to Nell’s side as she spoke.
“Don’t you think I know that? Don’t you think that every day I go over what happened and know that I can’t change anything? Don’t you think that my head is telling me to be rational, that I did everything I could? It’s not that easy, Hilda because at the same time, my heart is screaming out the exact opposite … that I could have been stronger … that I should have held on … that I should never have promised something I couldn’t deliver …"

Taken aback by the vehemence of this outpouring, Hilda searched for the right words.
“Nell, Con told me once that she felt privileged to be your friend. She admired your loyalty and tenacity and she said how much she respected your absolute faith. She was drawn to you as a friend, as am I, because of your honesty and integrity. Anyone who knows you, Nell, knows that if they ask a question of you, they will get a direct answer. You have never, to my knowledge, shied away from or tried to conceal an unpalatable truth. Con valued that and she would have known that what you said was straight from the heart and that at that moment, you believed it to be the truth …”
“You don’t know what she was thinking …”
“No, I don’t,” conceded Hilda. “But tell me this, Nell. Anne has improved remarkably since you visited her. What did you say to her?”
“Only that Con would not have wanted her sacrifice to be for nothing and that Anne had a duty to make the most of her life …”
“And don’t those same words apply to you as well?” chided Hilda gently.
“Con saved a life … I didn’t …”
“But you did everything in your power to, Nell, and that’s what counts … Con knew that, we all know that and God knows that … you have to believe this yourself Nell … it’s the only way you’ll be able to accept what happened …”

#519: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:35 pm

That was very moving, Rachael.

#520: Author: karry, Location: somewhere cold and miserable! :(

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:38 pm

Gulp!

Rachael, this goes from good to better! Crying

#521: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:44 pm

I am so glad Gem pointed me in the direction of this.

I just spent the whole day reading it from the beginning in between ferrying the children backwards and forwards to school and appointments!

Have gone through so many emotions - feel quite wrung out myself now!

I know it's only a few minutes since the last post went up, but - please, more soon Rachael!!

#522: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:44 pm

Very moving, poor Nell, hope some of what Hilda has said can help her. And poor Hilda watching her suffer and not knowing what to say to help.

Thank you Rachael.

#523: Author: Amanda M, Location: Wakefield

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:56 pm

This is so moving and so well-written. Feel so sorry for poor Nell. I hope Hilda can help talk her round a bit. Pale

#524: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:59 pm

Wonderful, thank you Rachael

#525: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 4:21 pm

*wibbles for poor Nell!*

Thank you Rachael!!! Crying or Very sad

#526: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 4:30 pm

Wow. Thanks Rachael.

#527: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 5:31 pm

When someone writes as well as this, I have difficulty accepting that this is just fiction I'm reading! That was very moving, Rachael.

#528: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 7:00 pm

Thank you Rachael.

#529: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September)

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 7:34 pm

Thank you, Rachael. That was just amazing. Crying or Very sad

#530: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 7:53 pm

Thanks Rachael. I can sympathsise with Nell - you don't grieve any less for doing it in private rather than in front of other people, and of course, guilt is another important part of the grieving process, whether it's justified or not.
The question is, is she eventually going to able to come to terms with her loss and begin to get on with her life?

#531: Author: janetbrown23, Location: Colchester

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 8:45 pm

I have just read this from start to finish, left the work i should have been doing, not fed the dog.

You have an amazing talent Rachael, taking someone elses characters and making them all your own.

thanks so much for all the pleasure and tears today.

jan

#532: Author: ellend, Location: Bow, London

Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 9:40 pm

That was so wonderful and moving and shows real understanding of grief and how others react.

Wonderful, Rachael, is the only word for your writing on this.

Ellen

#533: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 12:09 am

You're not supposed to make me cry at work! Crying or Very sad

Very powerful stuff Rachel.

#534: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 4:30 am

*inarticulate Crying or Very sad

#535: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 8:22 am

Thanks for the lovely comments ...
*slightly worried about Jan's dog Wink

*

As this scene faded, Joey was left stricken by the image of two women in a room, the one reaching out to the other, uncertain of her influence.
“Oh Therese, Hilda said everything that she could and yet … I just don’t see Nell responding. Does this mean that Hilda of all people couldn’t help? And if not, what happened to Nell?”
Mademoiselle sighed. “You are very perceptive, cherie. Yes, Hilda said all that anyone could have but it was no more than Nell herself already knew and the weight of Hilda’s input was much less in those days. Nell continued to drive herself until the end of that term but she handed in her notice, requesting that Madame accept it immediately so that she did not have to come back for another term. Margharite was upset, naturally, at losing another core member of staff but she could not refuse, especially when Nell was adamant that she did not feel capable of returning to the school.”
“But where did she go? Did she carry on teaching?” Joey’s sensitive eyes conveyed the fondness she felt for the mistress she had held in such esteem. As a schoolgirl, they may have sparred frequently, thanks to her lack of scientific prowess but Jo had grown to love this straightforward, candid woman and in adulthood they had become good friends, sharing a similar, irreverent sense of humour.

“Nell returned to the London School of Economics and was able to secure a position in their laboratories, specialising in research and development. She did finally acknowledge that she could have done nothing to prevent Con’s death, Hilda’s involvement achieved that much, but it was a bitter blow nevertheless and the emotional damage had been done. Nell began to shun human contact and buried herself in her work …”
“But … but why?” protested Jo.
“Because cherie, she could not bear to run the risk of losing anyone else dear to her. Consider her position. She had lost all three members of her family in a little under a year. It’s likely that she came to the Tiernsee in order to escape or at least to start afresh and for a few short years she was very happy. She was a successful, popular, young mistress and she established a rewarding bond with another member of staff. Life would have been looking very positive until Con’s accident crushed her world. I think that if it hadn’t been for the timing, Nell would have been able to rise above either set of circumstances but this was too soon and too painful after her previous losses. Being a methodical woman, she evaluated the evidence and felt that she didn’t want to take that chance again … better to avoid potential hurt altogether than to run the risk of history repeating itself.”

“No!” Joey looked distraught at the dawning realisation that Nell Wilson had voluntarily surrendered so much. “But surely she and Hilda remained friends?
“They exchanged a few letters certainly but it never amounted to much and never recaptured the openness of their discussion that day. Remember, Josephine, at this point they would only have been colleagues for a couple of years, during which time Nell was much closer to Con. It is easy to forget in knowing them for so long that Hilda and Nell’s relationship only really began to develop after the school had left the Tyrol and after the Mackenzies had left for Singapore. This friendship was something that grew quite slowly but steadily and I don’t believe that either of them recognised the extent of their affection until the coach accident in which Hilda almost died.”
“You mean that given a few more years, Hilda might have been able to help Nell more because they would have been that much closer? But Therese – that’s awful!”
“It is indeed an additional misfortune”, agreed Mademoiselle sadly.

#536: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 9:07 am

pleeease tell me it gets brighter after this? Poor Nell! And poor Hilda!!! ((((hugs)))) all round

#537: Author: keren,

Posted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 9:33 am

just asking cos i cant remember,
Is the part about nell losing her family actually written in one of the books (if so which), or is it from an article someone wrote on Miss Wilsons life (that is on one of the club sites>?

#538: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 10:31 am

We definitely hear that she lost her younger sister (Cherry) which is why she had the cello that she gives to Jacynth (in Gay from China) ... I can't remember what else was said about her family in the actual books but I used the following article from Friends of the Chalet School ... and I expect that author did some research before adding bits

Read more about Bill here

It's rather good, apart from the preposterous (IMHO!) theory that Bill fancied Jem ... Rolling Eyes

As if!!

#539: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 12:01 pm

Poor Nell! Sad

#540: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 2:00 pm

Poor, poor Nell, though it is exactly what I would have expected her to do. Shame Hilda hadn't known her long enough to help.

#541: Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England

Posted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 3:02 pm

I almost cried in the public library...
Thanks, Rachel, that was very moving.

#542: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 8:06 pm

Very touching, Rachael.

#543: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 9:51 pm

*sobs folornly*

who's next Rachael? Crying

#544: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 4:35 am

Poor Nell! Crying

#545: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 8:14 am

“And what about Hilda? With no school to return to and Nell’s self-imposed exile, how did she fare?”
“Hilda found a new position quickly on returning to England. Her tenure at the Chalet School was very valuable and although she had to revert to Head of the English department for a few years, she was then promoted to Deputy Head and ultimately Headmistress until her retirement.”
“And, of course, the school flourished under her leadership?”
“She was admired and respected by all, Joey. Her staff held her in the highest esteem; the girls were in awe of her and the school itself was renowned for its excellent academic record.”
“I would expect nothing else Therese … but there was something missing wasn’t there?
Kindly Mademoiselle nodded, loath to cause further distress. “Hilda’s school became very prominent but I think that had it been compared to the Chalet School, it may have been criticised for a slight lack of warmth.”
“I don’t believe it”, stated Jo firmly. “Not with Hilda as Head.”
“Think about it Joey” came the instruction. “Would Hilda have remained exactly the same without Nell?”

Joey looked pensive as her natural empathy came to the fore.
“I don’t know, Therese. I can’t begin to imagine how either Nell or Hilda could be truly fulfilled without the other … in fact, from what you’re telling me, I can only assume that they would both have become very lonely old women. The Nell I know, even in her retirement, is so spirited and energetic that to imagine her without that zest for life is to see a very solitary woman. Oh, if only they’d had more time together … Hilda would have brought her out of it, I’m certain she would. And Hilda without Nell? It seems impossible. Hilda exudes strength and independence but I know she draws a great deal from that friendship. They complement each other perfectly, Therese. I suppose we always see them together so we don’t appreciate it but they’re the ideal partnership, aren’t they? Hilda keeps a check on Nell’s wilder moments and provides the gravitas where it’s required but Nell prevents Hilda from becoming too dignified and teases her just enough to ensure she doesn’t become all old and matronly. I’m sure they bicker occasionally and have their disagreements but they always get over their differences of opinion which is essential to any relationship. I can see what you mean by a lack of warmth now … Hilda would become terribly immersed in her work and probably very reserved. Without Nell there would be no one to draw her out of it. She wouldn’t intend to, I’m sure, but perhaps she would seem rather aloof to others. Am I right?”

“Yes, Josephine, you are very astute. Hilda and Nell make an excellent team and when one is absent, it does indeed throw the other off balance. Even in my own days as Headmistress, when they did not realise it, I used to observe that they worked in tandem, and that one would be able to lead on from where the other left off …” Mademoiselle broke off to smile, a little sadly, at her memories. “On many an occasion I saw that when Nell’s infamous sarcasm had gone over the head of a young sinner, Hilda would be able to get through with her gentler brand of irony or where Hilda’s more understated approach wasn’t working, Nell would harangue the most truculent Middle with one of her diatribes. They employed differing tactics but they were both very effective and they both learned an enormous amount from each other. I was privileged to work with them. It is a great disappointment for me to see them like this …”

#546: Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 9:38 am

Rachael, this is too dreadful. I can't bear it much longer. Please bring Joey back soon.

Nell on her own in the labs, Hilda running a school without Nell - it's not bearable.

Crying

#547: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 10:11 am

Agrees with Cathy. I don't like this world very much... Crying

#548: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 10:22 am

I'd not really thought about Hilda lacking Nell's fire (?can't think of a better way of putting it) but it's so true. So perceptive of you. Thanks.

Crying

*I don't like this future, either*.

#549: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 1:57 pm

It's so interesting to see what would have happened if Nell and Hilda had not developed their friendship. I'm just so glad they did!!!

*This isn't stopping me wibbling though

#550: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 3:46 pm

Just caught up on a lot of this!
Is amazing
poor everyone...please can Joey come back soon!

#551: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 5:57 pm

Although we still haven't seen Jack!! But poor Hilda and Nell Crying or Very sad

#552: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 6:38 pm

*Really, really don't like this future! bawling

#553: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 7:14 pm

Lesley!!

Lesley! Just for gloating!

#554: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 7:19 pm

I wasn't gloating Pat (for once Laughing

) I was just saying how much I disliked the alternative future for Hilda and Nell.

#555: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 7:22 pm

But you were indicating that you had advanced knowledge! Or am I wrong just for once?

ETA: I don't like this alternative either!! Crying or Very sad

#556: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 7:55 pm

No, I honestly wasn't even considering the advanced knowledge I have. I was just commenting on the recent posts about Hilda and Nell.

I'll comment on the advance screening of posts now if you want though! Laughing

#557: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 9:12 pm

That's OK Lesley. No problem.

#558: Author: keren1,

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 6:10 am

Rachael wrote:

As if!!

I have read that too

#559: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 8:34 am

at Lesley and Pat

Now ... for those of you who wanted to know about Jack ...

With a sudden burst of insight, Joey realised that much as this long journey into another world had been painful for her, it must also be affecting her placid friend. Looking into the plain face and searching the soulful brown eyes she cursed herself.
“Therese! I’m so sorry!” Impulsively, she jumped up to stand in front of Mademoiselle, placing her hands on the Frenchwoman’s shoulders. “What a selfish ass I’m being ... this is just as dreadful for you to witness as for me! These are all people that you know and love too … please … I don’t need to see any more … it was foolish and inconsiderate of me to ever say those stupid things … of course I don’t wish that I’d never been born … I didn’t mean it, really I didn’t … please can we go back? I need to see my family and friends … please Therese!”
Taking Joey’s hands in her own, Mademoiselle spoke quietly but forcefully.
“You may go back any time you ask, Josephine but first, tell me what you have learnt from this experience?”

Joey stood for some moments, reflecting on all she had seen and heard. Never in her wildest flights of fancy had she dreamed the world could be changed so dramatically by the absence of just one person. On the one hand she felt both humbled that her own sphere of influence could extend so wide and privileged to have the opportunity to see what could have been. On the other, she felt accountable and not a little guilty that she had sought to throw everything away so recklessly.
“What have I learnt? So much that it’s hard to put into words, Therese. When you came to me, I had no idea that one person could have such a dramatic impact on all those other lives. I suppose I was being rather self-centred and I was certainly feeling miserable because I thought that my family and friends were neglecting me … but that isn’t the case at all, is it? Every hour that Jack spends at the Sanatorium, he is helping to save lives and, God willing, to allow patients to return home to their loved ones. Len is educating the next generation of women and instilling them with morals and values; Con is moving people by her written word alone and Margot is committed to helping the most needy and destitute. In one way or another, all the children are making their mark on the world so who am I to deprive them or their fellow men of their contributions? No, I’ve learnt that no matter how hard life seems or how much you might feel that you’re taken for granted, you must press on and believe in yourself and your abilities. You’ve given me cause to be proud of my life, Therese … not just through my books and my family but because I’ve been able to help others in ways that I’ve never realised. It’s time for me to go back.”

“And are you satisfied that you have seen everything, cherie?”
Jo hesitated, looking awkward, as though she were struggling to articulate her thoughts. Finally she looked down, unable to meet Mademoiselle’s eyes.
“You haven’t shown me the family, Therese, not mine and Jack’s and what might have happened to them … and I don’t know if I want to know … obviously the children would never have been born and I can see now that this would have huge repercussions on so many people … everyone that they’ve ever helped or affected in their lives … but what about Jack? I feel so torn. A big part of me wants to see him, to know that he’s all right and that he found happiness but I just don’t think I can bear to see him with someone else … is he happy, Therese? That much I would like to know …”
Understanding Jo’s turmoil, Mademoiselle was swift to put her mind at rest. “Jack never married, Joey.”
Relieved, his wife waited for more, anxious to know what peace he had found.
“In fact, he never made it through the war. He was called up as you know, and when he was knocked overboard from his ship he was very ill. He spent many days in a coma and the doctor of the rescuing ship feared for his life. Joey, I’m sorry but Jack died. They couldn’t save him and the doctor later said that it was as if he had given up because he had nothing to fight for … a tragic waste of a young man’s life, Josephine, but he adored his wife and triplet girls and in your world, that’s what kept him going … that’s what ensured he came home to you …”
Swallowing hard, for she had no more tears to shed, Jo inclined her head imperceptibly. “I understand, Therese and thank you for telling me.”

#560: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 9:15 am

Thank you Rachael. Glad to see coming to realise how selfish she'd been and her growing awareness of the value of each person's life. Thank you also for finally telling us what happened to Jack, so understandable tht with nothing to live for he stopped fighting.

#561: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 11:54 am

Rachael, this is just so moving and powerful, I don't know how you have managed to write so many painful scenes. This is an alternative universe that builds seamlessly onto the EBD world. Thankyou

#562: Author: ellend, Location: Bow, London

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 12:57 pm

That was lovely Rachael.

Sad to think of all the people who didn't get Jack's medical skills in the later years.

Ellen

#563: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 1:18 pm

Thank you, Rachael, that was very moving.

#564: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 1:22 pm

Thanks - no more 'til at least Tues now but the good news is, it definitely starts to get cheerier!! Very Happy

#565: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 1:44 pm

Wow, that was incredible, thank you, thank you, thank you

#566: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 2:02 pm

Rachael wrote:

it definitely starts to get cheerier!!

Thank goodness!

poor Jack bawling

#567: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 2:44 pm

Thank you Rachael! Although it was upsetting and sad, it was fascinating.

*looks forward to cheerier times Razz

)

#568: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 3:25 pm

Thank you Rachael it is good to see that Jo is realising the impact we all have on each other, though it is hard to remember it sometimes.

Also looking forward to the cheerier parts.

#569: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 6:16 pm

Poor Jack

I really like the way you have allowed Joey to consider how far she has come. I'm also looking forward to the cheerier bits!

#570: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 6:56 pm

Thank you Rachael- such a sad end for Jack, without something to live for. So glad Joey has learnt from the experience! Crying or Very sad

Rachael wrote:

Thanks - no more 'til at least Tues now but the good news is, it definitely starts to get cheerier!! Very Happy

True.

#571: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 7:06 pm

Glad to see you like the smileys Lesley... although I think everyone will kill me for that particular one as I made it myself... Twisted Evil

#572: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 7:09 pm

Thank you Kat!

Kiss

Last edited by Lesley on Tue Oct 05, 2004 7:52 am; edited 1 time in total

#573: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 7:12 pm

Lol!

You're welcome - so long as I don't get munched by everyone else!!

#574: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Fri Oct 01, 2004 8:07 pm

Thank you Rachael!!!
Looking forward to the cheerier bits!

#575: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Sun Oct 03, 2004 9:30 am

Me too!
Looking forward to more Very Happy

#576: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 3:19 am

Rachael wrote:

Thanks - no more 'til at least Tues now but the good news is, it definitely starts to get cheerier!! Very Happy

It's Tuesday Rachel. When do we get the next installment.

Begging and Pleading (and totally hooked)

#577: Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 7:07 am

*adds voice to pleading chorus!*

#578: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 8:05 am

and mine

not that we want to put you under any pressure Rachael Wink

#579: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 9:32 am

There was a moment’s pause as Jo collected herself, overseen by the loving eyes of Mademoiselle.
“Are you ready now, cherie?”
Blowing her nose vigorously, Joey proclaimed that she was indeed ready. “Yes, Therese. Imagining Jack like that … it’s too awful … I need to see him, to hold him …”
“Then I must bid you a farewell. It is time for me to return to my world.”
“But Therese, we’ve hardly had a chance to catch up! Surely, you can stay a little longer?”
“No, Josephine, it is not permitted. I may stay only for as long as I can be of assistance. Now that you no longer need me, our time has run out …”
“But there’s so much I want to ask you … to find out how you are …”
“It is not possible ma petite, non, but one day we will meet again, I promise you … though not for many years …” Mademoiselle stood to embrace Joey.
Returning the hug with vigour, Jo tried to convey a multitude of things into her last words. “Thank you, Therese, thank you for everything. I’m more grateful than I can say … you’ve made me see things with fresh eyes and I feel more positive now …”
“Hush, Josephine. I ask for no thanks … only that you remember our meeting whenever you are discouraged by life’s difficulties and disappointments and that you remember this … one life in its way touches hundreds of other lives and when that person isn’t around it leaves a terribly big hole … we all have a responsibility, Joey … now au revoir …”
With a final squeeze, Mademoiselle tilted the smooth head towards her with both hands and bestowed a final kiss on the grey hair.

“Au revoir …” but even as she uttered the words, Joey realised that she was alone once more.
Surveying the room, nothing seemed to have changed. She picked up the picture frame and was relieved to see the photograph of the Maynard family en masse in its rightful place. Pausing to scrutinise the many smiling faces and recalling her husband and children individually to mind, her fingers strayed over each figure as she thought lovingly of them. Next, she walked across to her desk and sitting in front of the old typewriter, she tapped out her name with gusto: JOSEPHINE MARY MAYNARD. Reaching to flick the lever across, it jammed. Joey stared at it, then grinned and gave it an affectionate nudge, easing the paper through carefully. It was the same typewriter that Dick and Mollie had given her all those years before. Somehow Madge had known to pack it with their other precious belongings when the Russells had made their hasty departure from Austria and since then, Joey had written all her novels on it. She knew her faithful friend was on its last legs and her children teased her that it was a museum piece, but it had served her well and she was unwilling to part with it. Now, despite the unfavourable feedback from her publishers she felt that there were still more books within her. She could update her style to suit the modern market and there were other historical figures besides Napoleon whom she could research and perhaps write their biographies. In fact, she was not even going to worry about it today. She would take a break from writing all together for a month or so and simply enjoy life. This decision made, she felt a sense of relief as though a burden had been lifted. Encouraged, she moved across to the piano, still gleaming with polish and kept tuned despite standing untouched for many months. Slipping on to the stool, Joey lifted the lid reverentially and touched the keys. How she loved music and how she had missed it, too wrapped up in other affairs to find the time to relax. She played a few scales and arpeggios to warm up before rooting through some sheets of music and picking out an old favourite. Humming softly, she struck a few chords and began to sing, her golden voice, no longer as pure as a chorister’s but with a rich resonance that had developed with age, carrying through the house.

#580: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 9:45 am

oooo luffley....I'm glad Joey recovered... Very Happy

#581: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 10:13 am

Thankyou so much Rachael! We are not worthy

I haven't seen the film but am assuming that is the end.... Crying

If it is, then I will miss this drabble but thankyou for a very satisfactory conclusion!

#582: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 10:22 am

Thanks and no - quite a bit still to come Very Happy

ETA - unless you want me to end it there? It being satisfactoy and all?! Wink

#583: Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 10:25 am

Don't listen to Helen Rachael! We want to know how Joey changes!

#584: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 10:57 am

Would love to see the next bits about how Joey has changed. Thank you Rachael!!!

#585: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 11:13 am

Not satisfied Rachael, it's a fantastic bit and I love seeing Joey recognise the importance of the things around her (especially her old typewriter) but I want to see how she fits back into her life, please.
*smiles nicely*

#586: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 11:13 am

Thank you Rachael that was lovely! Very Happy

And yes, please, I would love to see the next bit and how Joey treats her family now (and their reaction to that!! Wink

)

#587: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 11:35 am

Rachael, you owe it to everyone to let them see the rest.

Lovely post - especially the typewriter and photos.

#588: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 11:54 am

Oh yes we definitely want more!

Rumours of this drabble's demise were greatly exaggerated.... Embarassed

Excitedly waiting for lots lots more now! Red Blob Jumping

#589: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 1:33 pm

That was lovely Rachael!!!!
*waiting eagerly for more now!*

#590: Author: ellend, Location: Bow, London

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 1:40 pm

Great. I loved Joey finding music and singing.

I too would like to see more, with Joey appreciating her family and friends all around her, so do keep going.

Ellen

#591: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 3:36 pm

More! More, more, more, more, more, more, more!!!

Please? Wink

#592: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 3:39 pm

Rachael, please finish this.

#593: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 5:16 pm

thanks Rachel, so glad Joey's happy again and all's back to normal. That means Con Stewart's alive again too Very Happy

to finishing it early. You deserve a good dose for that suggestion!

#594: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 5:27 pm

Yay for the cheeriness! Mr. Green

Please finish the story Rachael - we need lots more cheeriness to help us recover from all the trauma earlier in the story.

(<I'm disappointing Miss A again. Wonder what it is I'm doing wrong?)

#595: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 5:30 pm

You can't (may not! Sorry!) end it there!!! It's so lovely seeing the old Joey. Very Happy

#596: Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 9:15 pm

Wonderful, Rachael - it's so good to see Joey enjoying all the good things in her life again.

Kiss

#597: Author: Amanda M, Location: Wakefield

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 9:30 pm

Also echoing cries for more - I'd love to see how the experience has affected Joey. We are not worthy

#598: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 11:50 pm

also cheering the cheeriness Very Happy

#599: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 12:46 am

Not having seen the film, I'm very intrigued as to what will happen next, so pleeeeeeeeease hurry up and post Rachael

#600: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 3:33 am

Rachael wrote:

quite a bit still to come Very Happy

ETA - unless you want me to end it there? It being satisfactoy and all?! Wink

Of course we would understand if you wanted to end it there Rachael.
But if you really feel that you have more story within you, then we will obviously lap it up!

#601: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 8:55 am

There it was that Jack found her as he hurried into Freudesheim. The song greeted him as he approached the doorstep and he paused awhile to admire his wife’s voice. It had not occurred to him that music had been absent from the house for so many months but now he realised what a difference it made. Sometimes, when the family was all together, the assorted collection of string, wind and brass instruments had led him to bemoan the cost and he had often declared that they should set up their own band to pay for their upkeep. But joke as he might, Jack loved that music was such an integral part of his family’s life and he vowed to ensure that in future, he and Joey would set aside time for themselves, whether to listen to attend concerts or simply listen to recordings. Just because the family were rarely at home, there was no excuse for them to ignore their interests and hobbies. Meanwhile though, he needed to see his wife. Erupting into the salon, Jack strode quickly across the gleaming floor, noting with fresh eyes how it was liberally bedecked with colourful rugs to create a warm, inviting ambience. Joey looked up in surprise and he returned her gaze with great affection, pleased to note with his practised doctor’s eye, that she seemed less strained than in previous months.

“Jack?”
“Joey, darling!” and with those words, Jack pulled his wife towards him, enveloping her in a bear hug. In truth, he felt a little guilty that he had been spending so much time away from her but he hoped that following the evening’s announcement, she would understand and appreciate all his planning. “Oh my dear, I’ve been neglecting you dreadfully … long hours at the San and golf with the boys … you must think me a terrible husband … but I haven’t forgotten your birthday and tonight we are going out for a slap-up meal with Jem and Madge to celebrate your 50th! What do you say?”
Temporarily bereft of words, Joey could manage little more than, “Oh Jack, that would be perfect …”
“Wonderful! But we must hurry as we both need to get washed and changed and I’ve booked the table for 7.30pm, forgetting that we need to pick up Jem and Madge along the way …”
“I’ll bathe straight away then” rejoined Joey, her spirits lifting as she folded away the music. “I’ll shout down when the bathrom’s free …”
“Thanks, and Joey …” Jack grinned boyishly. “Would you mind wearing that dark green dress you wore to that wedding last year? I don’t think I’ve seen it since and you looked simply stunning …”
Oblivious to his wife’s blushes at this unexpected compliment, Jack disappeared into his study, intent on finding a small package that he had secreted there some weeks before.

Joey meanwhile ran lightly up the stairs with an even lighter heart and performed her ablutions with a new-found zest. Carefully brushing out her long hair, she looked critically at herself in the mirror. There were a number of lines, to be sure – years of laughter and worrying about the children had left their mark but she felt that hers was a face of character and more importantly, she felt that Jack Maynard, the estimable consultant, could be proud to have her at his side. Turning to her jewellery case, she considered what to select that might match the green dress, trying to recall what she had worn with it to that wedding.
“Would these be of any help?”
Standing behind her, Jack smiled into the mirror, one hand caressing her shoulder and the other presenting a small case. Opening it carefully, Jo was startled to see it contained a beautiful emerald pendant and earrings.
“I thought they might match your engagement ring,” he explained, “And you know how you always look so beautiful in green. Allow me …”
Wordlessly, Joey raised her hair and watched as Jack carefully fastened the clasp on the necklace, softly kissing the nape of her neck as he did so. Then they both looked into the mirror and Joey raised her eyes to meet her husband’s.
“Happy birthday, darling”
“Oh, Jack,” she breathed. “They’re absolutely beautiful …”

(This is not the end either Very Happy

And apologies for any similarities to LM Montgomery!!)

#602: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 9:14 am

Lovely! *satisfied sigh*

(not that I'm not looking forward to the next part too!)

#603: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 9:38 am

Awwww, I feel all cuddly and smiley now Mr. Green

thanks Rachael

#604: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 10:50 am

How lovely!

*feeling all warm and fuzzy*

#605: Author: ellend, Location: Bow, London

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 11:04 am

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!! Lovely touch with the earrings.

Looking forward to the meal with Madge & Jem and the announcement.

Ellen

#606: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 11:05 am

Oh thankyou Rachael Very Happy

That was lovely.

*Joins PatMac in warm fuzziness*

#607: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 11:32 am

That was pefect. Thank you Rachael.

#608: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 11:55 am

That was lovely Rachael. Thank you. Very Happy

#609: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 12:41 pm

Sighs a very happy sigh

#610: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 1:21 pm

Yay for Jack!
Thank you, Rachael. Very Happy

#611: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 1:50 pm

Beautiful Rachael, thank you Very Happy

#612: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 2:00 pm

Awwwhhh....happy and fluffy feeling Very Happy

But Rachael...where's the next bit? Wink

#613: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 2:02 pm

Lovely Rachael!

(Oh and I've read the next bit - thanks - that's lovely too! Laughing

)

#614: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 2:40 pm

ahhh, lovely
thanks Smile

#615: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 3:05 pm

REally nice cheery part Rachael. This is how Jo and Jack should be. Nice to see them happy. Now I am wondering what the announcement is.

#616: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 3:27 pm

Lesley wrote:

(Oh and I've read the next bit - thanks - that's lovely too! Laughing

)

Evil, bad Lesley!!

#617: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 3:32 pm

Indeed! Am so glad there's more to come though - even if Lesley has read it already! Very Happy

#618: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 3:38 pm

Oh Lesley...

Cliff

#619: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September)

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 3:52 pm

*feeling all warm and fuzzy*

Yay for Jack!

Oh, and yay for Rachael as well!! Thank you Rachael!!!!!!!

#620: Author: Amanda M, Location: Wakefield

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 5:03 pm

That was lovely.
Thank you Rachael. Ahhhhhh

#621: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 5:49 pm

Ciorstaidh wrote:

Oh Lesley...

Cliff

I feel that I have to second this!!!

#622: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 7:47 pm

Thanks Rachael, those last posts are lufferly. Jack is soooo sweet,.
I'm glad that Joey is feeling happier now, and that all is back to normal in CS land.

Am also very glad that it hasn't ended yet.

#623: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2004 9:56 pm

Pat wrote:

Ciorstaidh wrote:

Oh Lesley...

Cliff

I feel that I have to second this!!!

Methinks this needs thirding!!!!

Wink

Lovely post Rachael!! Looking forward to reading the next bit when you post it TOMORROW!!!! Wink

(tomorrow being the 7th, before any bright spark comes out with the old chestnut about 'Tomorrow never comes....')

#624: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 8:17 am

Later, as they drove to pick up Jem and Madge, Joey toyed with her necklace absently, thinking back through the years of their marriage. There had been ups and downs, as with any couple, but they were a unit and she knew that she would feel incomplete without him. Indeed, her concerns, so very real just a day ago, now seemed foolish. She felt slightly ashamed for ever doubting Jack and glancing across at him, intent on negotiating the road, a wave of love swept over her and she instinctively placed a hand on his knee.
“Do I tell you that I love you often enough?” she asked.
“You don’t need to say it, dearest” Jack responded warmly. “I can tell from your eyes …” and he smiled to himself.
Joey squeezed his knee.
“Careful, darling, you’ll have us off the road!” he protested.
“Not with you driving!” she returned firmly as he indicated to turn off the main highway. “But where are you going? This road takes us down to the school …”
“Oh, I’m sorry, I meant to tell you … Len asked for some old white coats and any disused medical equipment we could spare … stethoscopes, that kind of thing … apparently they need it for their latest production … I promised her that I’d drop them off at the Hall … seemed like a good opportunity .. you don’t mind, do you?”
“Of course not! Though I hope no one sees us … all dressed to the nines!” giggled his wife infectiously.
“They could co-opt us as extras!” quipped Jack, fingering his tie and sending up a prayer of thanks that he had remembered to have his best suit dry-cleaned.
Parking the car smoothly, Jack leapt out easily for a man of his age and hastened to open his wife’s door.
“Any chance of a hand with the bags?” he asked innocently. “It’ll take less time with the two of us …”
“I daresay!” Joey raised an eyebrow expressively. “Here’s me in my best togs,” she grumbled good-naturedly as she accepted his elbow, “you lure me out with promises of a fine dinner and in reality, you just want to use me as a cart-horse!”
“But of course! That’s why I married you – look at these muscles!” Jack chortled as he pressed her slim arm through the coat.

They made their way into the building, Jo suggesting that they should hurry because Jem and Madge would be waiting.
“I thought you said Len was meeting you here?”
“She is … she’s probably gone to put some lighting on backstage so we can take these straight to the costume and props cupboards” replied Jack. “See, there’s light coming from under the Hall doors and here we are!”
In one fluid movement, he dropped both their bags to the floor, chivalrously opened the door and thrust Joey into the light before she could collect her senses.

As she entered, the room exploded into a frenzy of noise and activity. Cries of “She’s here!” and “It’s the Birthday Girl!” resounded from every corner. There were cheers and clapping and then a sea of familiar faces began to sing a chorus of Happy Birthday. For a moment Joey stood stunned in the doorway. Prodding her gently in the back, Jack ushered her further into the room, conjured up two flutes of champagne and tapped his glass on hers.
“Surprised?” he whispered into her ear.
“Surprised? I’m … well … I’m flabbergasted!” she replied, never one to be lost for words for long. “How long have you been planning this?”
“Trade secret”, Jack tapped the side of his nose aggravatingly. “Suffice to say, I have had willing assistants …” Here, he winked across at Len and Con who were hovering on the edges of the crowd, waiting to shower their mother with birthday greetings.
“I might have guessed!” Joey glared with intent at her eldest daughters who grinned back unrepentantly. “And who else? Madge? Hilda? Nell? I expect they were all involved too?” she continued suspiciously.
“Well, we had to ask their permission to hold it here” explained Jack, “Of course, once they’d approved, they were all too happy to oblige … and to help with the guest list” he added tantalisingly.
Joey caught on to his meaning immediately. “Jack! Whoever’s here?” she demanded excitedly.
“Now that would be telling!” he retorted with an infuriating smile.
“You maddening devil, you! Come on now, play fair!” coaxed Jo, giving him a playful prod.
“Oh no, you don’t!” countered Jack, wise to his wife’s ways. “Off you trot and find out for yourself! The more time you spend trying to wheedle that information out of me, the less you’ll have to spend with your playmates! Now scoot … vamoose … scarper! I’ll catch up with you later!” And with a peck on the cheek and a final shove he disappeared into the throng, intent on finding his own friends.

#625: Author: Richenda,

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 8:36 am

lovely lovely lovely!!

Who's there?! We need to know NOW (if it's not too much trouble....)

#626: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 9:27 am

Wonderful! And well done Jack and Co for keeping it a secret so successfully! So who's there?

#627: Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 9:32 am

Ahhh!

Dreads to think what the party would have been like if Therese hadn't changed Joey's mind!

#628: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 10:35 am

*Bounces happily*

Thank you Rachael, what a wonderful surprise for Jo Very Happy

#629: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September)

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 11:41 am

Yay! I knew they wouldn't forget her birthday! Hope the mystery guest is Margot... Very Happy

#630: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 12:04 pm

Lufferly!

Go on, Rachael, do tell!

#631: Author: ellend, Location: Bow, London

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 1:17 pm

Brill!!! Looking forward to the party.

I hope all the people mentioned earlier in the drabble will be there to provide the contrast. Laughing

Ellen

#632: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 3:00 pm

“Mama! Mama!” Len and Con spoke in chorus and assailed with hugs and kisses from both sides, all Joey could do was laugh.
“Let me go! I surrender!” she remonstrated, fending them off as best she could and smoothing out the crumples to her dress with nimble fingers. “Now let me see you both … it’s been a while …”
“I’m sorry, Mother” apologised Len. “We have been avoiding you rather but it was the only way to keep this a secret …”
“Absolutely!” Con nodded. “Knowing you, you would have sensed something was up and worried it out of us … you know how you can be … like a terrier with a bone!”
“Cheeky wretch!” For a moment, Joey feigned deep offence but was unable to keep up the charade and all three giggled helplessly like the schoolgirls they had once been.
Looking at them tenderly, she thought to herself, what fine women they had become and how very proud she was of them and all the children. Tall and elegant, they made an attractive pair, Len with her chestnut mane and Con with the same black hair as her mother. Only the reddy-gold colouring of Margot’s crown was missing and Joey felt a sudden pang as she realised that her youngest triplet must be thousands of miles away. Quickly dispelling the cloud she forced a smile. After all, Margot herself had sacrificed so much for her vocation that it was hardly fitting for her own mother to complain. Instead, Jo vowed to write to her the next day and fill her in on everything that she had missed, that way at least, her daughter could be involved.

“You both look so well … but Len, you’re positively glowing! What have you been up to?”
Flushing slightly, Len looked behind her and in an instant Reg was by her side, his arms encircling her protectively.
“We have some news …” began Mrs Entwistle.
“With a capital N!” added her husband mischievously.
A longed-for event sprang to the forefront of Joey’s mind but she did not dare to believe that it could be true.
“How would you like to become a Grandmama?”
“You’re expecting? Oh, Len! Reg! That’s wonderful! I’m so pleased for you! In fact, I must start knitting …”
“Well, don’t over do it, Mama, we’ve another six months or so to go,” Len looked suddenly very young and very proud as she rested one hand on her still flat belly. “And I wouldn’t want you tiring yourself before the birth. I’m hoping to go back to work, you know, and if you’d like, we’d love to have you help us …”
“Back to work? I don’t know, you really are a thoroughly modern miss … but help you? I hope you know you don’t need to ask – it will be my pleasure and keep me busy. It’s been so quiet without a baby in the house these past few years …” Jo sounded wistful.
“We thought you’d be pleased,” smiled Reg.
“Does the rest of the family know?
“Yes … but only just … we’ve literally told them all over the last couple of days so we didn’t steal your thunder tonight… and they’re all thrilled, especially Papa! Now, enough about us, this is your special evening, so you must go and mingle! We may leave early because I’m still getting very tired so if I don’t manage to say goodnight, I’ll come across for tea later in the week .. ‘bye for now!”
“Len’s right, there’s loads of people you need to catch up with … I’m off to find Roger, I’ll see you later …” Con followed her sister into the crowd, leaving Joey to survey the scene.

She barely had time to catch her breath before sundry other members of her family surrounded her, laughing and joking. Steve, Charles, Mike and Felix towered above her, threatening to carry her on their shoulders for a lap of honour. She was able to exchange a few private words with each one and was delighted to hear that Steve was intending to propose to his girlfriend on his return to England.
“It’s time I settled down Mum and she’d definitely the right one … the wedding will have to be over there though, you don’t mind do you?”
“Of course, not sweetheart … just as long as you’re both happy .... I shall use it as an excuse to make a grand tour of the home country and visit everyone I know there … what do you say, Charles? Room for a little ‘un in you flat?”
Charles rolled his eyes. “I suppose I’d give up my bed for your old bones and you’re welcome any time, Mother. Just don’t be surprised if there’s a crisis and I have to go out in the middle of the night …” Charles’ social work meant that he was often called out at unsociable hours and the family had been entertained, and in some cases, a little unnerved by some of his stories.
“I expect I’ll have to miss the celebrations, Steve old mate” interjected Mike apologetically. “Guess what, Ma? I’ve been offered a commission and my first trip is out to the Pacific! I leave in a few weeks’ time”
“Mike! That’s fantastic! Congratulations … my son, the naval officer …”
“Steady on! I won’t be an officer for a good while yet … but it’s a decent start for a chap …” Mike stood tall and proud, justifiably pleased that his life’s ambition was taking shape.
“Flix and I will be around though, Mum so you’re welcome to visit us and give us a break from studying” grinned Felix.
“It’s Felicity” said a voice behind as his twin cuffed him round the ear. “But that would be great, Mum. Nottingham’s not so far from London so perhaps we could make a weekend of it? And Steve, I do not want to be a bridesmaid … I’ve had that pleasure twice already and it’s time the rest of them took their turn as more than flower girls!”

#633: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 3:22 pm

Lovely Rachael, a real surprise!

#634: Author: Amanda M, Location: Wakefield

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 4:01 pm

Lovely - I'm so happy for Jo having almost all her friends and family around here. Eagerly waiting to see who else is there.

Jumping

#635: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 4:38 pm

oh I'm so glad! She's lovely really *feeling a warm and fluffy moment*

#636: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 4:39 pm

yay, 2 more updates Very Happy

Glad everything's back in fluffy bunny land

#637: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 4:40 pm

Superb Rachael (as ever Wink

)

#638: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 5:03 pm

Ooooh!!!
Thank you Rachael!!! This is wonderful!!!!

#639: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 5:42 pm

yay, this feels so real Very Happy

#640: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September)

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 6:17 pm

Oh this is so lovely! Especially like seeing Joey taking so much interest in her family's life, though it's only natural after what happened.

*feeling all warm and fuzzy*

#641: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 6:28 pm

Awwwww!

Warm and fuzzy! Laughing

#642: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 7:38 pm

Oh that was lovely! I love reading about surprise parties! Party

Can't wait to find out who else has been invited too. Jumping

#643: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 7:45 pm

How lovely, Rachael!

#644: Author: ellend, Location: Bow, London

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 9:24 pm

Excellent!!

Ellen

#645: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 10:55 pm

Yay! All warm and fuzzy and bouncy! Red Blob Jumping

Thanks Rachael!

#646: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2004 11:56 pm

awww, that was lovely Rachael! Thank you!

I want a Jack! Very Happy

#647: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 12:08 am

Thank's Racheal, this is so charming. How gorgeous for Joey. and how sweet of Jack and the two triplets to organise it.

#648: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 8:57 am

The conversation continued in this vein with much teasing and banter. Joey eventually withdrew from it, pleased that her children were so close and that despite the distance they could pick up their relationships with ease.
‘They’re good friends as much as siblings”, she reflected. “At least I don’t have to worry about who’ll be there for them when Jack and I are gone – they’ll support each other.”
“Penny for them Joey!” said a well-known voice as two figures came up behind her.
“Juliet! I didn’t see you … what are you doing here? Have you come all the way from England? How’s Donal? And the family?”
“Jo! You never change – you’re a perpetual question mark! Give me a chance to answer your questions, do … I’m here because Donal is delivering a series of lectures across Europe so yes, we’ve come all the way from England and the family are all very well, thank you. Grizel here is putting us up so we’ve been catching up on old times … or at least we have” she added with a twinkle. “Neil and Donal have been retiring to the study to keep out of our way!”
“Men!” laughed Grizel with a shake of her head. “Happy birthday, Joey. I must say you still look a good ten years younger than your age. How do you do it?”
“Ah, that would be living a blameless life, Griselda” smirked Jo provocatively.
“That or you have a portrait in the attic” retorted Juliet smartly before Grizel had a chance to rise. “Honestly, Joey, you can be such a torment despite your advanced years …”
“I’ll have you know that I’m a good two years younger than either of …” began the torment before relenting. “I say though, it’s simply marvellous to see you both here. How long are you staying for? Surely this isn’t a flying visit?”
“No, we arrived this morning and Grizel has very kindly extended her invitation for the whole weekend, so we don’t depart until Tuesday. We should be able to have a proper catch-up before then … meanwhile, I can see that Madge is free … please excuse me …”

Juliet glided elegantly across the room, still as tall and dignified as ever, despite her middle age.
“It’s so good to see her, Grizel, and you, of course although we’re lucky, both living on the Platz. Doesn’t she look just the same as ever?”
“A little older perhaps, Joey, like the rest of us but yes, it’s good to see her, it must have been ten years or so since her last trip – where does the time go?”
“I don’t know – it’s a worry isn’t? No point brooding about it though, much better to be thankful and appreciate the memories. You know, Grizel, I was thinking about how our lives might have turned out and I can’t believe how very fortunate we’ve been … all of us” Joey made an expressive gesture to include the room.
“Really, Jo, I think you’re getting maudlin. Is the emotion of the moment getting to you?”
Typically, Grizel’s down to earth nature prevented Joey from dwelling on her train of thought further and she felt suddenly grateful that her friend was so very different in temperament to herself.
“No, Grizel, I’m fine – just letting my imagination run away with me as usual. To be honest, I’m a little over-awed by this party … look at all these people!”
“Plenty of whom you won’t have seen for a while …” replied Grizel enigmatically before drifting away to replenish her glass.

A hand tapped her on the shoulder and Joey turned to see a very old friend.
“’Veta? No, it can’t be …” she exclaimed.
“It most certainly is me!” replied the name’s owner gaily. “Are you going to give me a hug, Joey or do you intend to stand there like a stranded codfish with your mouth gaping wide open all night?”
Collecting her senses, Jo hugged Elisaveta with vigour, noting that the years had been good to her.
“But I thought you were in Canada?”
“I was but when Len contacted me to invite me to your party, I jumped at the opportunity. I’ve not been in Europe for years and it seemed the ideal opportunity to visit many old friends … so here I am!”
“Where are you staying?”
“Would you believe that Marie, Frieda and Simone and I have hired a pension for two weeks? With all the children having flown the nest, we felt we could spend some quality time up here on the Gornetz Platz. It’s a very large building with plenty of rooms so anyone who couldn’t make it tonight will be welcome to join us over the fortnight … and of course, you’re invited to visit too, provided you come with provisions.” Veta’s eyes danced.
“I’ll come with a will … what a fabulous idea … whose was it?”
“Mine, Joey” said Marie and turning, Joey was faced with all three of her closest friends from school.
“Marie! You … you utter star!” she cried as she returned the embraces. “And Frieda, how are you?”
“Very well, thank you, Joey liebling, and all the better for seeing you …”
“And Simone, look at you! You haven’t changed a bit!”
“Bonne anniversaire, Joey. It is kind of you to say so but I fear I have as many grey hairs as I see in you so, in truth, we must both have aged a little!” Simone smiled.

All five chattered merrily for some minutes and those watching them were moved to observe that despite the thirty plus years that had elapsed since they had left school, they had all reverted to type. Joey was leading the conversation, at times gesticulating wildly when she struggled to express herself as quickly as her thoughts were coming. Marie and ‘Veta were almost as vocal whilst Frieda and Simone were content to play a quieter role, interjecting occasionally with their gentle humour and simply enjoying the companionship. It was indeed just like old times.
“She’s certainly enjoying herself!” remarked a woman at Madge’s side. “How on earth did you keep it a secret from her? I’m surprised she didn’t sense that something was afoot.”
“I rather think she did” admitted Madge. “But I don’t think she guessed it was a party and Jack swore everyone to absolute secrecy … on pain of death!”
The woman laughed. “I can imagine! He’s done a tremendous job though … this must have taken a lot of organisation …”
“And co-ordinating” Madge agreed. “Thank heavens for Len and Con. They did a wonderful job of contacting everyone and now that they’re all here … well, it’s good to see Joey so happy. I’ve been rather worried about her the last few months but whatever was bothering her seems to have disappeared.”
“And she seems exactly the same to me … see, that’s Joey!” commented her companion wryly as Joey almost knocked the glass from Frieda’s hand.
“Yes, I wonder when she’s going to notice that you’re here … what does she say? Stand by to repel boarders? I must get my camera ready …”

#649: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 9:03 am

Thank you Rachael, I love this party and seeing Joey's reaction to all her friends and how her conversation with Mdlle has affected her....now I'm just wonderign who it is talking to Madge....

#650: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September)

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 9:09 am

Right, well my first guess was obviously wrong! That was a lovely update, Rachael, but could you please tell us who it is? *begging shamelessly*

Thanks Rachael! Smile

#651: Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 9:20 am

Thank you Rachael! Glad everything is so happy now!

*Racks brains to think of mystery guest* Have a couple of ideas....

#652: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 12:10 pm

Happy that the party is a success, but who is the mystery guest?

#653: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 2:52 pm

What a wonderful party! And the prospect of several weeks of mingling with the old crowd Very Happy

.

Thank you, Rachael!

(Now, who is that with Madge?)

#654: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 2:56 pm

*Feeling warm and fuzzy*

Its so great to see Jo reunited with her friends but please reveal the mystery guest!!

#655: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 3:56 pm

Aww, I'd expected Rachael to have posted more by now.

#656: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 4:33 pm

Great as ever, Rachael but who is the mystery guest. You'll have to be quick or we will all expire from curiosity!

#657: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 4:57 pm

Will the Robin come??

#658: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 5:08 pm

Or is that the Robin? Or Margot? Or who??!

#659: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September)

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 7:14 pm

Not Margot cos she referred to Jo as "Joey" - unless that's Rachael trying to throw us off scent...

*wails* Rachael!!!

#660: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 7:22 pm

Surely the Robin...can't think of anyone else who'd refer to "Joey" who would be so dear to her...

please make like a banana, Rachael, and split! Very Happy

#661: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 8:03 pm

So who is standing with Madge then? *Thinks* *Thinks harder.*

Twisted Evil

#662: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 9:33 pm

oh wowowowowow. Rachael, I've just read the whole thing from the beginning to the end and it's just so wonderful I don't know where to start.

I was in an absolute flood of tears when Con Stewart 'died' - and I've lost my tissues! - but now I'm feeling all fuzzy at Jo's party and, oh, MORE please! It's simply incredible.

*speechless*

#663: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 9:35 pm

What a lovely party. But who is the mystery woman - I'd like Margot to be there, but I can't imagine she would call Joey by her first name.

#664: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 10:28 pm

helllloooooo!
Please?!

#665: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 11:11 pm

Aaargh!!!!
Rachael Pelter!!!! you little horror! I can't believe you're leaving us all in suspense over the weekend like this!!!

(actually, yes I CAN believe it........ Rolling Eyes

)

#666: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri Oct 08, 2004 11:37 pm

Vikki wrote:

Aaargh!!!!
Rachael Pelter!!!! you little horror! I can't believe you're leaving us all in suspense over the weekend like this!!!

(actually, yes I CAN believe it........ Rolling Eyes

)

Not all of us,Vikki. Laughing

#667: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Oct 09, 2004 8:59 am

More boasting, Lesley?

#668: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Sat Oct 09, 2004 2:43 pm

Lesley!

Incidentally, you people, how many days is it supposed to be till the beginning of RCS5 again? Very Happy

#669: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Oct 09, 2004 3:33 pm

I believe it might be nine days til RCS five is due to start!
Should we start a chant in anticipation? Wink

#670: Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England

Posted: Sat Oct 09, 2004 5:47 pm

Oh no, I've come to the end of this drabble so far...and I so wanted to know ho was standing next to Madge. *grr* I'll jusy have to be patient, although as a friend recited to me yesterday "Patientice is a virtue, Virtue is a grace, Grace is a little girl with a dirty face"; it struck me for some reason, maybe because I have NO patience whatsoever... Plaese can we have some more????

#671: Author: MrsH,

Posted: Sat Oct 09, 2004 8:29 pm

Rats. This is the first drabble I've read and I've had to totally change my mind about Joey. I now feel empathic and sorry for her. Bum, bum, bum. What fabulous stuff you've done Rachael. Don't you dare do one like this about ML, I just couldn't deal with it.

#672: Author: MrsH,

Posted: Sat Oct 09, 2004 8:31 pm

Ooopsy

.... am I allowed to say "b*m" ??? Apologies (huge ones) if I'm not and I'll try and work out how to edit it.

#673: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Oct 09, 2004 10:19 pm

*grin*

No ban on 'bums' around here MrsH. Wink

I'm sure most of us have used worse!

#674: Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 5:37 am

Lots for me to catch up on and then a rather nasty cliff. That's hardly fair!!

Absolutely awesome though, Rachael - even if you have been taking lessons from Lesley.

#675: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 5:48 am

Yes, it's a lovely drable. Flowers an' all that.

But WHO is standing with Madge?

(stamps foot and pouts)

#676: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 8:50 am

LOL!
*laughing at Lesley! Rolling Eyes

*
*giggling at Ciorstaidh's "make like a banana and split"!!*
*chuckling at MrsH's "bum" - but not her bum you understand ...!!*
*hoping Patmac et al haven't expired from curiosity*
Well, lots of you got it right ... Very Happy

There was a lull in the conversation and Joey glanced across the room. Seconds later, her glass would have smashed had it not been for an eagle-eyed Simone who caught it as it dropped, and Joey was haring across the floor, almost cannoning into her sister as she moved to seize her smaller companion.
“Rob? Rob! Oh, is it really you? I can’t believe it!”
Reeling from the onslaught of Joey’s tall frame, Robin recovered her balance and returned the embrace with interest.
“Joey dearest, it has been too long …”
“Too long? I’ll say … it’s been years …” Joey swallowed and dashed an impatient hand across her eyes.
Robin too looked suspiciously teary and Madge moved discreetly away, allowing them a more private reunion.
“But Joey, you hardly look a day older …”
“Me? What about you!” Jo spoke candidly. Robin’s dark curls were hidden under her nun’s habit but her cheeks were as rosy, if not as plump, as ever and her dark eyes were sparkling. “You look so … so well … brimming with health in fact …”
“Why ever shouldn’t I?” demanded Robin curiously.
Joey had the grace to blush. In truth, she was overcome with emotion at seeing her adopted sister after so long. The alternative life that Mademoiselle had revealed had affected her deeply and it was with great relief that she had scrutinised Robin for any signs of ill health and seen nothing.
“Oh, ignore me if you like but it always sounds in your letters as though you’re working so hard and giving of yourself that I worry you’re overdoing it sometimes …”
“No chance of that! The Reverend Mother would never allow it,” explained Robin. “She likes her nuns to be fit and active so that we can give our best service to the church and community.”

“Yes, how on earth did you get leave to come?”
“It was a stroke of luck, Jo. Madge’s letter arrived just as we were beginning a project in Zurich. I requested a placement and was accepted so I will be here in Switzerland for at least six months. They know that I have family here and were pleased to grant me leave …”
“Leave?” repeated Joey incredulously. “But how come? And for how long?”
“The Church is becoming more modern, Joey, it is not so unusual for us to be granted leave … though usually only overnight or on this occasion, a weekend …”
“Well, I think it’s absolutely splendicious!” beamed Joey, reverting to one of her more unusual expletives. “Where are you staying? Don’t tell me that Jack managed to spirit you into Freudesheim without me even noticing?”
“No, I travelled up this afternoon and went straight to Madge and Jem’s. What a beautiful house they have, Joey! I’m so pleased that they came back from Australia … it’s such an awful distance, even by today’s standards.”
“Oh, I think they always had plans to come back to the mountains once Jem retired and once they knew that the property was on the market, Madge practically forced him into making a decision there and then … but it really is fabulous to have her close at hand” she added with feeling. Joey was very close to Madge who had been the nearest thing to a mother she had ever known. They might bicker occasionally, as only sisters can, but no one had been happier than Jo when the Russells had announced Jem’s impending retirement and their plans to return to settle on the Gornetz Platz.

Robin nodded sympathetically. “It must have been difficult for the two of you being in different countries for so many years.”
“Of course, but we both had large families to look after so I doubt we’d have seen each other much even if we had lived closer …”
“And now?”
“Now that the families are more or less grown, it’s much quieter … too quiet almost so we both appreciate the company … it’s lovely just to ring up and be able to drop round for a coffee and a gossip … or to reminisce about old times!”
“And how’s the family?”
“They’re all very well, Rob and do you know, I feel prouder of them every day …”
“I should think so, too … didn’t I hear a rumour that Len was expecting?”
“She most certainly is … I only just found out myself and I’m over the moon about it, I can tell you!”
“Like the cat that got the cream” grinned Robin. “I don’t know, Joey, only another twenty five years or so and perhaps you will be a great-grandmother, in your bath-chair and regaling the kids with stories of the old days and your misspent youth!”
“I can only hope so!” retorted Jo smartly as she recalled her vow to always be a Chalet School girl, come what may.
“And was that really Felicity I saw you talking to earlier?”
“I expect so … she’s quite the young lady now and still pursuing her ballet … oh, but Rob, you won’t have had time to catch up with them all … let me call them over …”
But before Joey could attract the attention of her brood, a clear voice was heard calling out, “Auntie Rob! Auntie Rob!” and Cecil appeared, eager to see the aunt she barely knew except from photographs. Realising that her mother had been on the point of re-introducing Robin to the family, Cecil insisted that she should do this so that Joey could greet other friends. Thus co-opted, Robin kissed Joey hastily with promises to talk more later and followed her niece into the group of Maynards who had all turned to welcome her.

#677: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 9:06 am

*sniffling happily* Lovely Rachael.

#678: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 9:32 am

Hooray it was Robin Very Happy

Now, please say Margot's going to appear too? *looks at Rachael with pleading eyes*

Hope you've got all the paint out of your hair by the way!

MrsH wrote:

Don't you dare do one like this about ML, I just couldn't deal with it.

You won't want to be reading Pim's 'I lift my eyes up' drabble then MrsH! Wouldn't want you keeling over and ending up cold, grey and to all appearances ... Shocked

#679: Author: Beth, Location: Durham, apparently...

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 9:49 am

*contented sigh*

Thank-you...this really is splendacious!

#680: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September)

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 10:29 am

Woohooo!!! My second guess was right! *beaming*

Thank you Rachael - that was luffly Very Happy

#681: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 11:06 am

Yay, I'm so glad it was Robin Very Happy

What a lovely scene, thank you Rachael

#682: Author: keren,

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 11:25 am

I clicked the newest page (after checking this a few times) and then alredy got to the message saying "I am glad it was Robin", before I got time to read the story itself

#683: Author: MrsH,

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 12:55 pm

Good. I'm glad it's Robin too. Still feeling shocked at liking Joey so much in this one. How embarassing Very Happy

#684: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 1:01 pm

Yay Rachael!!! That was lovely!!!
(but please may Margot show up now too?)

#685: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 6:08 pm

Awwww! Lovely. Ahhhhhh

#686: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Oct 11, 2004 7:16 pm

I'm glad that it was Robin, she needed to be brought back into the drabbles.

#687: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 8:58 am

“So, Jo what do you think?”
Joey smiled at the little group who had come up behind her. Jem Russell was in his seventies now and more white than grey, but he stood very erect and beamed with genuine affection at his sister-in-law. Madge was standing with him, one hand slung through his arm. She was also very grey but her eyes still sparkled with vitality and her love for Joey was visible.
“Happy Birthday, Joey! How does it feel?”
“Not a day older than yesterday!” quipped Jo irrepressibly.
Another couple of a similar age offered their congratulations and Jo found herself exchanging kisses with not only Jem and Madge but also Dick and Mollie Bettany.
“Don’t tell me,” she surmised, “Madge is putting you and your family up as well as Robin? I know it’s a large house but you must be cramped!”
“It’s certainly cosy, Joey acushla!” Mollie’s peal of laughter rang out. “But where else do you think we could be staying now? It seems that every last room on the Platz is taken up with guests from this party who couldn’t find a space elsewhere!”
“And your offspring?”
“Oh, we’ve crammed them in too!” answered Madge. “It has been a case of squeezing everyone in with a shoehorn but the grandchildren, at least, still think it’s a tremendous hoot having to make do and share the floorspace … I only hope, “she added thoughtfully, “that they don’t think this is going to be a regular event!”
“Oh, I doubt it!” replied Jem with some humour. “I overheard Kevin and Kester debating the merits of family get-togethers along with young Geoff, Phil and Daf earlier … they were not impressed by the lack of space and I have a feeling that nobody will be suggesting this is repeated for a long time!” He twinkled from underneath his bushy eyebrows.

Joey adopted a mischievous air. “Hmmm, we should be able to have some fun with this, perhaps I should suggest that we turn it into an annual event?” She dropped one eye so that all but Madge could see that she was kidding.
“Don’t you dare, Josephine Maynard!” cried Madge. “It was difficult enough getting everyone here tonight. I hardly see my children as it is but if you threaten them with a compulsory family reunion every year, we won’t see them for dust!”
Jo grinned provocatively. “I knew you’d rise” she proclaimed sweetly and with great satisfaction.
“Really, Madge, you never learn!” Jem shook his head.
“Joey! Will you ever grow up?” chided her brother in mock despair.
“I certainly hope not!” responded Joey from the heart. “I would hate to become all old and prissy … and you should know that Dick Bett …”
“Well, there’s certainly little danger of it!” interjected Madge with all the brisk authority of someone who had been both an esteemed headmistress and owner of a successful school. “Really, Jo, you seem to thrive on teasing and tormenting people. Give it a rest, do … or we may be forced to cancel your other surprises …”
This took the wind out of Joey’s sails.
“Oh Madge, I’m sorry, you know I didn’t mean anything by it … but what do you mean by “other surprises” … surely having Robin here is enough?”

“Careful, Joey, curiosity killed the cat” said another voice as Jack joined the group, casting a warning glance in Madge’s direction.
“Don’t worry, Jack, we haven’t said a word … just advised her that if she’s a bad girl, she won’t be getting any more treats!” This last from Dick.
“I suppose you’re not going to tell me then?” asked Jo resignedly.
“Not a chance!” they chorused.
“In which case, whilst you’re all here, I’d just like to say, thank you … to all of you …” Joey looked round the group earnestly and took hold of Jack’s hand. “You’ve been the best siblings and in-laws I could have wished for and I’m proud to call you family. I know we don’t always see eye to eye on everything but when any of us are in trouble, I know that the rest will always be supportive of them and that means a lot … the world, in fact. I don’t say it very often, I know, but you each mean so much to me and I’m happier than I can say to have you and yours all here today. I’m really touched and I’m thrilled to bits that you could all make it. So thank you, for making the effort and for … well, for being you!” Joey faltered, her love going suddenly very deep as she realised what she might have lost.
“You’re very welcome, Joey” said Jem softly, speaking for all of them and conscious that Madge and Mollie were feeling the emotion of the moment. “And you’re a good egg, too, even if you sometimes drive the rest of us to distraction!”
There was an outbreak of chuckling as he successfully diffused the moment. As he confided afterwards to Jack and Dick, he had not wanted to deal with a trio of weeping women on what should be such a joyous occasion!

#688: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 9:00 am

Aww, thank you Rachael. *fuzzy*

#689: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 9:33 am

Thank you Rachael *warm and fuzzy*

#690: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September)

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 10:23 am

Thank you Rachael!

#691: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 10:37 am

This drabble makes me really smiley. Thanks Rachael. Can't wait to see what the other surprises will be.

Margot perhaps... Question

#692: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 11:25 am

Wonderful Rachael, thank you Very Happy

*Also hoping for Margot*

#693: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 12:17 pm

How sweet. This is a real balance to the dreadful visions Joey had of the alternate universe.

#694: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 12:20 pm

Lovely, Carolyn! Razz

#695: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 1:02 pm

Thank you, Rachael!
So nice to see Joey back to her old self. Not to mention all the others!

#696: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 4:10 pm

Thanks, Rachael, that was a lovely scene.

#697: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 6:54 pm

josie wrote:

This drabble makes me really smiley. Thanks Rachael. Can't wait to see what the other surprises will be.

Mean she hasn't told you yet? Oh dear! Ahhhhhh

#698: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 7:15 pm

Now, that's just plain mean!! Wink

lesley!

#699: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Tue Oct 12, 2004 11:52 pm

Rachael, that was a lovely post! Thank you!

.....and Lesley, Hell is filled with people like you! Evil or Very Mad

#700: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2004 2:29 am