When The Snow Falls

Chapter 1

Suzan stared into the hospital room where her mother lay and turning to the footsteps approaching.
" Doctor, how long before it's over?" she questioned.       
" Well it's hard to say, it could be tomorrow, or next week, or even six months," replied Doctor Hardings.       
" Look at them," Suzan said looking back at the children, " they think she's just got a cold."                                          
" You haven't told them?"                                                        
" I haven't found the right time yet." Suzan said as she stepped closer to the door.
" Mummy can I get drink?" Jenny asked her mother.       
" Sure sweetie." She said looking down as she stroked her daughter’s hair. Jenny then hopped and skipped down the hospital hall to the water fountain. " I'd better leave you now I've got some rounds to do," the doctor said to Suzan as he placed his hand to her shoulder.
" Thank you, for everything." Suzan smiled to the doctor held her head up high and entered her mother's hospital room.
" You were talking about me again weren't you." Suzan's mother asked as she raised an eyebrow.
" No, not really." Suzan said taking hold of her mother's hand.
" I may be old but I'm not deaf," said Estell.
" You're not old grandma," Billy said as he climbed upon the bed.              
" Thank you dear." Estelle reaching out to touch Billy's cheek.
" So how much did you hear." Suzan taking a breath and look to her mother hoping she didn't hear too much.
" Enough to know I've got up to six months." 
Where are you going in six months grandma?" Jenny questioned as she came back into the room.
" Far away dear, sort of like a holiday," Estelle trying to explain.
Billy looking puzzled asked " Will you be coming back?"
" No dear." Estelle looked to Suzan and gave a half smile.
" Can we come visit you?" Jenny asked leaning onto the bed.
" No dear, where I'm going it's just too far away." Estelle explained as she held onto her granddaughter's hand.
" Come on you two it's time to go home and grandma need her rest." Suzan collected their things and kissed her mother on the cheek, Billy leaned forward, and he too kissed his grandmother on the cheek.
" Do we have to go; can't we stay just a little longer." Jenny asked with big puppy dog eyes and pushing her bottom lip out.
" Honey, grandma needs her sleep if you want her to get better." Jenny shrugged her shoulders and gave Estelle a kiss and all three wished her a goodnight.

Estelle lay there in total silence and the room partly lit by moonlight thinking of years past. Thinking of when she was a young woman just turning twenty and the one she loved. Her eyes grew heavy and with a smile she slowly drifted off to sleep.
" Isn't it beautiful." Estelle said holding John's hand looking over a field of wild blossoms.
" Come on then. “John said looking at Estelle.
" What?" Estelle was puzzled.   
" Let’s run through them like we did when we were young."
" Alright, I'll race you to the other side." Estelle said as she began to run gaining a head start.
" Hey, wait up." John yelled.
" For the counties best runner, you sure are slow." Estelle hollered from halfway across the field. Butterflies danced on the breeze as both John and Estelle ran through the hundreds of wild purple flowers and with all the butterflies it was a sight to be there was as many butterflies as there were flowers. Not looking where she was running Estelle tripped and fell at the same time letting out a scream. John stopped in his tracks looked around and then started running again. " Estelle; Estelle, where are you? “John frantically called. There was no answer, he kept running in the same direction as Estelle, and then he found her, she lay there motionless. John's eyes widened with fear, he took a deep breath and knelt beside her. He gently rolled Estelle onto her back and wiped the dirt away from her face. As John looked up for any sign of help Estelle opened one of her eyes to see if he was looking, when she saw he wasn't she opened the other eye and said, " Gotcha," and then began to laugh. In shock John dropped Estelle back into the dirt and stood up.
" What the hell do you think you're doing," he bellowed.
" There's no need to start cussing, I was only having a bit of fun." Estelle said while lying there in the dirt.
" Grow up," John said as he began to walk away.
" John wait," Estelle yelled as she got off the ground. But John paid no attention and kept on walking. Estelle picked up a clump of grass and dirt and threw it hitting John in the back. He let out a bit of a yell and fell to the ground moaning. Estelle gasped for air and ran to John as fast as she could. " John I'm sorry," she yelled out as she reached him. He then turned over and started laughing.
" Gotcha back," he said still laughing. He then sat up and kissed Estelle on her soiled cheek.
" John please, someone may be watching." Estelle pulled back and looked around.
" We better get back or your father will be having fits."

John took Estelle's hand and they walked to the edge of the field to the beginning of the track. " Wait I want to get one last look at the field," Estelle said turning back to take in the beauty of the flowers.
" It's beautiful isn't it," he said placing his arm around her shoulder.
" It's a shame it it'll be gone when the snow falls." Estelle said as they looked across the rainbow coloured field.

As the dream went out of focus another voice entered. " Estelle, Estelle." The voice echoed. Estelle's eyes crept open and with the sharp sunlight cutting through the window she could see a man standing beside the bed.
" John," she whispered.
" Estelle it's me, Doctor Harding," he said as he wiped a tear from her cheek.
" Yes, of course." Estell said as she looked away.
" I'm here to give you a check over," he said as he went over her chart to study the overnight ob.’s.
" Well am I still going to die?" she asked looking out the window.
" Estelle you're doing just fine," he answered, " the nurse will be in shortly to bath you."
" Do you know when my daughter is coming back?"
" I'm sure she'll be in around lunch time." He replied. The doctor left the room and left Estelle in her bed with a book. She felt so alone and longed to see her field of flowers that she once knew as a young girl. Time slowly crept on as she eagerly waited for her family to visit. Tired from waiting she slowly drifted back to sleep and once again began to dream of the beauty of spring breaking through winter.

" Estelle honey," mother called, " When you've finished your chores you can take some fresh bread to Mrs Peters."
" Mother is it ok if I go over to John's house for a while," Estelle asked trying to look as cute as possible.
" Well; " her mother paused, " ok only if you're back by supper."
" Don't worry I will," Estelle grabbed the loaf of bread and hopped and skipped out of the back door and down the garden path. Along the way she passed the field of wildflowers that grew nearby. Estelle loved to stop and smell the wonderful aromas that would float on the summer breezes and see all the flowers sway like they were dancing, and the butterflies and bees that would hop from flower to flower, this always brought a smile to her face even when she was feeling down. Estelle gathered herself and continued on her way.

" Hello Mrs Peters, it's me Estelle." She waited for a moment and then ran around to the back of the house and called again. " Hello Mrs Peters, I've brought some bread."
" Over here dear." A voice came from behind the garden shed.
" I'm in the strawberry patch." Estelle looked around and skipped down the path to the garden where Mrs Peters was waiting.
" And how are you today Estelle?"
" Just dandy Mrs peters." Estelle replied looking hungrily at the strawberries.
" Mm the bread smells so good your mother really does a wonderful job, would you like a piece."
" Oh, I couldn't, I've just eaten. But I could possibly squeeze in a strawberry though." Estelle said with her eyes still fixed on the patch.
" Very well dear, help yourself." Estelle licked her lips and began to eat. " Try not to eat too many dear you might get a tummy ache." Warned Mrs Peters. " Don't worry I won't I'll just have three."
" I'm going inside now so I'll see you later and please thank your mother for me," Mrs Peters said as she hobbled out of the garden. Estelle ate three big red juicy strawberries and then picked two extra for John. She knew Mrs Peters wouldn't mind as she knew Estelle would always take the two extras.
" Grandma, grandma, are you sleeping?" Jenny as she leaned over the edge of the hospital bed.
" Jenny be quiet you'll wake the whole hospital," Billy said trying to pull his sister from the bed.
" Come on you two sit on the chair and wait till grandma wakes up." Suzan took both children by the hand and sat them on the large armchair next to the bed.
" Suzan are you there?" Estelle whispered as she slowly opened her eyes.
" Yes mum."   " Could you please help me sit up I can't see the children.” Estelle asked as she struggled with the bed covers. Suzan motioned to the children, " Billy go to the other side and straighten the pillows while I hold grandma."
" That's better, thank you dear." Estelle smiled to billy then gently touched him on the head for the kind gesture.
" Now come and sit on the bed and tell me what you've both been up to."
" Yesterday when we got home we had chocolate sundaes," Jenny explaining as her eyes lit up, " grandma did you have chocolate sundaes when you were a little girl?"
" Oh yes dear all the time, we even had fresh strawberries on top and sometimes sprinkled with nuts."
" Now would you two like me to get you something from the canteen?" Suzan asked as she picked up her purse.
" Oh yes please can I have an ice cream," Jenny asked.
" And can I have a milkshake?" Billy added. " Sure. Would you like something mum?"
" No thank you dear, I have everything I want right here," Estelle said looking at both the children.
" Ok then I won't be long." Suzan then turned and left the room.

" Grandma, how much longer are you going to be in here?" Jenny asked as she lay beside Estelle.
" Not much longer, the doctors are doing everything they can, so I can leave soon."                                                                         
" I don't like hospitals much, they smell funny and there's always sick people." Billy said as he looked around the room.
" Why are you sick grandma?" Jenny asked as she sat up.
" Well Jenny, I'm very old, and when you get old you get sicker much quicker," she explained as she stroked Jenny's hair.
" Here we go," Suzan entered the room, " Here's your milkshake and Jenny here's your ice cream."
" Ooo thank you mummy," Jenny said with a grin that spread from ear to ear.
" Thanks mum," Billy said, " would you like some grandma?"
" Not this time dear, you have it."  " Grandma, tell us about when you were a little girl," asking Jenny as she climbed onto the bed.
" Yes, please gran." Billy then too climbed onto the bed.
" Very well." Estelle began to make herself comfortable.
" Mum are you sure," Suzan touched her mother's hand.
" I'm Sure. Now let me see:" Estelle began to set the scene and continued where her dream had ended.

After picking the strawberries for John Estelle placed them carefully in her pocket and quickly made her way to a small dirt track that lead to john's house. The day was beautiful, the sky a deep blue and not a cloud to be seen. Birds could be heard in the surrounding trees and the scent of honeysuckle drifted on the breeze. As Estelle skipped into John's front yard she took one last deep breath of the honeysuckle filled air before entering the house.
" John," Estelle hollered as she knocked on the front door, " are you home? I have strawberries." Estelle could hear footsteps coming towards the front door, so she took a few steps back.
" Who is there?" a voice questioned from the other side of the door.
" It's me, Estelle. Is John home? I have strawberries for him from Mrs Peters, and mum said I can play for a while." The front door opened, and John's mother Mrs Cavanagh stood there. " He's up in his room Estelle go right up.”                                               
" Thank you, Mrs Cavanaugh." Estelle said with a bit of trouble and handed her a strawberry. Estelle dashed through the door and shot up the stairway to John's door. Without making a noise she crept into his room and gently placed her hands over his eyes.
" Guess who?" She said trying her best to make her voice deeper.

" Hi Estelle," John said with a chuckle. " How did you know it was me," she said giving him a stern look placing her hands on her hips. " Well your hands are too small to be my dad's and your voice sounds nothing like my mother's," he explained. " Well I have some strawberries from Mrs Peters for you." Estelle pulled out the remainder of the strawberries from her pocket and presented them in her hand, John eyes grew bigger and in a moment's glance he ate them like it was the first time he had ever been fed.

The two children wondered down to the creek that lay at the bottom of John's parent's property to try and catch some tadpoles and frogs. Estelle wasn't a girlish type of girl, was more at home in the mud chasing frogs and lizards. Some hours had passed since they at the creek and with endless frogs and other creatures they hadn't noticed the time fly by.
" John, quick I've got one," Estelle shouted with joy.
" Hold onto it," John yelled as he ran through the ankle-deep mud.
" Hurry John there's another one." John ran a little faster to try and catch up with the other frog that was trying desperately to escape their clutches. Without warning John lost his step, tripping and falling face first into the mud, sliding up to Estelle's feet. She laughed so hard she had dropped the frog and fell back into the mud, John sat to his knees and began laughing back. Estelle grabbed a fist full of mud and threw it as though she was throwing a baseball hitting John in the faceknocking him on his back, the air was silent, only the sound of frogs jumping in the mud could be heard, then suddenly both children burst into laughter.
" Come on it's getting late, mother will be wondering where I am," Estelle said as she helped John out of the mud. The two children parted ways at the edge of the creek and started their walk home. Estelle desperately trying to scrape off the mud before she reached her destination.   

Chapter 2

" Ok you two it's time to go home," Suzan announced.
" Do we have to?" Jenny asked as she held onto her grandmother's hand.
" Yes, we do, grandma needs her sleep, or did you forget that grandma is sick. Suzan continued collection her children’s things.

Once again Estelle was left alone, not just from her family but from the one she loved as a youth. She began to weep and remember her life and how she wished it could all start again. Something was wrong, Estelle's vision grew blurred, her breathing light, she struggled for her next breath, a slight panic filled her mind she felt her time was near. She reached out for the pager that lay on the bedside table and with what little strength she had she tightly squeezed the pager and the everything went black.
Alarms sounded in her room echoing down the hospital hall. " Doctor hurry there's a code blue in room two eleven," a nurse responded.
" Hurry it's Mrs Cavanagh’s room. Get me a heart and lung monitor and set up the oxygen tent," instructed Doctor Harding’s, " Nurse Collins call Mrs Cavanagh’s daughter!" A medical team of doctors and nursed rushed to Estelle's room.

With children dragging behind her, Suzan came running into the hospital, making their way through the corridors that lead to her mother's room.
" Doctor, how is she? what's happened?" Suzan questioned her voice full of fear.
" It seems she had a mild heart attack and one of her lungs had stopped working," he explained as he placed a hand on Suzan's shoulder, " Your mother is doing much better now but still has a lot of recovery. As you can see we have place her in an oxygen tent to help purify the air around her." " Is it ok for me to see her?" she asked trying to hold back tears from the children.
" Of course, it is, but it might be best if the children stay in the waiting room as all this can be too much all at once for them."
" Yes of course." Suzan turned to the children and gave them huge hugs, " Billy, Jenny, I'm going to see grandma now so will you wait here for me, please."   
" Why can't we see grandma mummy?" Jenny quietly asked.
" Well honey, grandma is really sick, and the doctor thinks it's better that mummy should visit so we don't tire grandma out too much, ok." She carefully explained to the children.
Suzan gradually approached her mother's room stopping at the door to wipe away any tears that may have settled on her cheek. She took a deep breath and entered the room.
" Oh mum," Suzan whispered as she took Estelle's hand. " I love you mum." A tear began to roll down her cheek as she gazed upon her mother, she studied the lines on her face that were softly lit by the dim hospital light above the bed and felt the gratitude of having such an amazing person for her mother.

Morning came, and Suzan had fallen asleep, still holding onto her mother's hand. As the sunlight crept into the room Suzan's eyes opened, she looked to her mother and saw she was still sleeping, so she straightened herself at the same time rubbing the stiffness that settled in her neck. Lifting her weary body, she walked over to the window to view the day that was ahead. 

" You're blocking the sunlight." Suzan's eyes widened.
" Mum!" She gasped turning to Estelle.
" Would you please get out of the light," Estelle asked impatiently. " Can you get the doctor I want this blasted off."
Suzan ran out the room and down the corridor to the nurse’s station.
" Doctor Hardings, it's mum she's awake and I think she's ok, she's wanting the mask off." Suzan said laughing and crying all at the same time. The Doctor, two nurses came to Estelle's room to begin some tests and Suzan hurried down the hall to the waiting room where the two children slept.
" Jenny, Billy," Suzan gently stroked their heads to wake them, " grandmas awake."

" Good Morning Estelle and how are you feeling." Asked Doctor Hardings as he began to examine her.
" Well it's about time," Estelle said as everyone came through the door. The doctor continued to examine her as she looked around at the nurses.
" Well, did you find anything," she questioned raising an eyebrow.
" It's amazing, everything is back to normal." Hardings said standing back rubbing his chin. Suzan came into the room but standing back to give the nurse's room to do their job.
" Could I see you outside for a moment Suzan?"
" Sure," she answered with a puzzled look. Suzan and Doctor Hardings wandered down the corridor till they almost reached the waiting room.
" I don't know what it is but, it's like there's something pulling her through," the Doctor said with a puzzling voice, " from the turn she had last night your mother should not be awake today, it's like she's holding on for something. Suzan do you know of anything, or anyone that she could be wanting?" Suzan thought for a moment and then something came to her.
" Mum used to talk of a place she used to go as a young girl and where she used to go with my father, maybe that's it. I know she is always talking about this field of flowers she played in." Suzan explained.
" Is it far to these flowers?"
" Well flying it's at least three hours and driving maybe an overnight tip to Driftwood Valley and winter is only a few weeks away."
" What happens in winter?" Hardings questioned.
" Snow, Doctor. The valley gets covered in it and nothing grows back for months and I'm afraid it could be too late by then." Suzan said with a sound of despair in her voice.
" We can only do our best to make her as comfortable as possible," said the doctor as he took Suzan by the hand.

" Mummy can we see grandma now?" Jenny asked as she took hold of her mother's other hand.
" Soon my darlings, we'll go in after lunch."
" Why can't we see her now?" Billy questioned.
" Well, grandma got very sick last night, and she needs a lot of sleep to get better," Suzan explained.

Suzan and the children arrived back at the hospital fresh and ready to see Estelle, Jenny holding tightly onto a bunch of flowers skipping towards her grandmother's room. She stopped at the door and peeked in. " Come in dear," Estelle said as she looked towards the door. Jenny entered the room trying to hide the flowers behind her.
" Where's your mother and Billy?" " Oh, they should be here soon, I ran ahead of them, so I could see you first." Jenny pulled out the flowers from behind her and presented then to Estelle and placed a kiss on her cheek.
" Jenny, there you are," Suzan said entering the room, " I've told you before never to run in the hospital."
" I didn't run mummy, I skipped." Jenny gave a grin.
" How are you mum?" Suzan asked as she leaned to give Estelle a kiss.
" Much better thank you dear."
" Grandma can you tell us another story from when you were a little girl?" Billy asked climbing onto the bed.
" Could you get me some water please?" Estelle looked to Suzan. She took the jug that was on the bedside table and began to pour.
" I was eighteen and it was soon to be my sister's wedding. My house was full of excitement and I was helping my sister with her dress." Estelle said as she began to weave her magic of storytelling.

" Estelle, would you like to come and help pick out a spot beside the lake for the wedding?" Estelle's sister Charmaine asked.
" Oh, I would love to." Charmaine, Estelle and their mother loaded into the car and began their journey to the lake. It was a beautiful spring day; the weather was clear, and the air was sweets with the scent of Honeysuckle and the sounds of baby birds could be heard as they carried on the breeze. As the car pulled into the field beside the lake the vision of wild blossoms caught their eyes. " It's beautiful," Estelle whispered trying to not break the sounds of nature.

The three women walked through the flowers and made their way to the lake. They spent hours walking around the lake trying to find the perfect spot, but as the day began to slip away a small grove of trees caught Estelle's eye. " Look, over there," she yelled then running over to them. As Estelle and Charmaine entered the grove they felt as though they had walked into heaven. In the middle of the grove stood a weeping willow with a vine of pale pink and white flowers that hung most delicately. On the surrounding trees grew vines of wild roses and through the grass grew sprays of tiny white flowers that Shon in the setting sunlight.
" It's perfect," Charmaine said as she continued to gaze at the picturesque sight that lay before her. The returned to the car still taken by the sight of the grove.

An hour later the three women returned home to tell the rest of the family what they had seen, and it was settled, the wedding was to be held at the lake. With only two days left there was still a lot to do, like the dress to finish and the food to finish organising for the reception.
" Are you nervous?" Estelle asked her sister as they lay out the gown.
" Well, a bit, but also excited." " You're going to look just beautiful," Estelle's mother said as she walked into the room, " Oh dear, I think I'm going to cry."
" Mother don't you dare," Charmaine said. Then at that moment all three women were startled by a car horn outside of Charmaine's window.
" Who is it?" Charmaine asked Estelle. Estelle ran to the window and stuck her head out to see.
" Oh no, it's Keith." Turning with shock to her mother, " What'll I do, he can't see me yet."
" Now don't panic, Estelle go get your father to deal with Keith," instructed their mother.
Estelle rushed downstairs slamming the door behind her, shot through the kitchen and the Living room to the front door.
" Hi Estelle, is Char..."
" What are you doing here," Estelle quickly cutting him off, " You can't see her till the wedding."
" Don't worry I'm here to see your father," Keith explained.
" Well you better wait here then," Estelle instructed as she pointed to a chair in the hallway and giving him a suspicious look. Estelle wondered around the corner of the living room, so she could keep an eye on him.
" Father!" she hollered, " Father, Keith is here."
Mr Banks came marching up the back path and through the kitchen.
" Where is he?" he asked.
" I left him by the front door," Estelle said pointing.
" Run along and help your mother and Charmaine," he instructed. Estelle rolled her eyes and ran up the staircase to Charmaine’s room and knocked on door.
" Who is it?" a voice from behind asked. " It's me Estelle." She entered the room shutting the door behind her.
" Where's Keith?" Charmaine questioned.
" I left him downstairs with father."
" Let's get started we've only a few hours before the wedding," their mother said as she hurried the two girls along.

" Charmaine, it's time," said her mother as she finished pinning the lace veil.
" Mother, dad's waiting in the car," Estelle said as she opened the door to her sister's room and then froze when seeing her sister.
" Oh Charmaine, you're beautiful," she said as she found herself overcome with the vision of her sister.
" You really think so?" Charmaine asked with a tone of uncertainty in her voice.
" Oh yes."
" Quickly now, or we'll be late," said their mother as the car horn sounded. All three ladies made their way to the car that was waiting to take them to the lake, where Keith and the rest of the family and friends awaited the bride.

They finally arrived at the lake, with satin ribbons floating and waving in the air. The car pulled up a few yards from the small grove of trees where everyone patiently waited. As Charmaine stepped out of the car it was like watching an angel descend from heaven, her long brown hair spiralled down to her waist with a crown of tiny white blossoms that sat around her head. She wore an ivory lace gown that gently flowed around her body with a soft satin sash that tied in a bow around her hip. As Keith turned to see his bride his heart filled with joy at the sight of the heavenly figure that stood before him, they both gave a gentle smile then turned to face the priest. Time stood still as the vows and promises were made and all the could be heard was the whisper of a breeze through the trees and the gently humming of bees in the distance.

" I now pronounce you husband and wife," announced the priest then placing Charmaine's hand in Keith's. Charmaine and Keith gently kissed and the turned to face their family and friends that gathered for this special occasion. Everyone clapped and cheered and began to toss rice, Estelle ran up and kissed her sister on the cheek and then Keith, Estelle was followed by her father and mother and then Keith's family followed.
" Come on girls," Charmaine called as she ran out of the grove. All the single young women gathered outside of the trees ready to catch the bouquet. Estelle took her place at the front of the group and stood at the ready. Charmaine turned, closed her eyes and then tossed the bouquet. It flew into the air, everyone ran towards open ground ready to catch the bouquet as it fell, Estelle picked her skirt and ran with all her might then jumping into the air and catching it as it began to descend.
" I've got!" she yelled as took hold of it with both hands.
" You know they say the one who catches the bouquet is the next to marry," Charmaine yelled from the other side of the group.
" We'll see," Estelle said with a light chuckle. Estelle walked back to the car ready to go home for the reception, as she opened the car door she looked up and saw that John Cavanagh her best friend was watching her, he smiled and dipped his hat, so she smiled back and hollered, " Don't you be getting any ideas either." John's grin widened with a small glimpse of teeth
showing, as she climbed into the car she noticed something in John's eyes a look she had never seen before, a look that meant more than friendship. Estelle closed the door and waved to John smelling the bouquet of flowers as the car moved on.

The reception was almost at an end and Estelle began to think back to the ceremony and the look in John's eyes, it sent a warm sensation down her back that made her smile. She walked to the back gate that sat at the end of the garden leaving the party behind she began to study the surrounding trees that lay at the border of her father's property, and in the corner of her eye she noticed John standing beside a large tree that she and he once played in as children. She pushed open the old gate and walked over to him.
" Why don't you come over to the party?" she asked.
" Well; I'd rather just sit here with you and watch the sunset," he replied as he looked up at the golden rays that lit up the sky.
" John." " Yes Estelle."
" We've been friends for a long time now," Estelle said being the forward type of girl she is, " I was wondering, if you had started having feelings for me."
" What sort of feelings," John said knowing exactly what she meant.
" Well I started having feelings for you that tell me I want to be more than friends," she explained, " and I was wondering if you maybe felt the same way about me.
" With his eyes full of love John leaned forward and whispered in her ear, " Estelle, I love you," and the gently kissed her on the cheek. John and Estelle both settled at the bottom of the tree hand in hand and watched the sun slowly sink beneath the horizon. 

Chapter 3

Once night had fallen and everyone had left the party John and Estelle walked to the back gate, held each other than kissed and parted ways until the next time they should meet. Estelle wondered back into the house trying to hide the girlish grin that lay upon her face, but the way she felt made it difficult as for the first time she had fallen in love and felt it's heavenly touch.

" Estelle," Charmaine called. Still thinking about what happened she did not hear her sister calling. " Estelle!" Charmaine's voice was louder this time. Jumping at the sound Estelle gathered her thoughts and ran to where her sister was waiting.
" So where have you been all this time?" Charmaine question with a suspicious tone.
" Oh, nowhere," she answered as she looked out a nearby window.
" By the way you could have asked John to come over and join the party." Charmaine said with a smile.
" What makes you think I was with John."
" I have eyes Estelle, I too wasn't paying much attention to the party, I saw the way he looked at you at the lake," she said placing an arm around her sister's shoulders. Estelle retired to bed that night dreaming of things to come, her heart was filled with love and joy and butterflies of excitement.
She woke the next morning with a smile spread across her face.
" Estelle honey, breakfast is almost ready," her mother called from the bottom of the staircase.
" I'll be down in a few minutes," Estelle answered as she brushed her hair.
" Hello Mrs Cavanagh," she addressed herself as she looked into the mirror already making up  her mind to marry John. She then placed the brush on the Tallboy and hurried herself down to the kitchen.

" Good morning father dear," she said as she sat down at the kitchen table.
" I know why she's so happy," said her younger brother.
" You hush up!" snapped Estelle.
" Estelle that's enough," her mother said in an ordering tone.
" Well, doesn't anyone want to know why Estelle is so happy?" Jack asked.
" Nobody wants to know," Estelle said standing up with fists on the table.
" I do Jack," his father said, " Sit down Estelle."
" It's about John too," Jack said with a smile looking over to Estelle, " John and Estelle were sitting together under a tree they were holding hands and kissing."
Estelle stood up from the table and ran out of the room to the front veranda where she sat herself on the porch swing trying to keep back any tears the filled her eyes. `She looked down to the track that lead to the main road, feeling the need to run as far as she could but kept her seat as where would she go, then with a glimpse her eye caught the sight of someone walking down the track, at first it was hard to see who it was but as the figure came closer it became clear to see, it was John.

Estelle's face lit up with joy, she jumped out of the swing and shot down the front steps. John began running toward Estelle both holding out their arms to each other, they embrace a short way down the track and then gently kissed.
" I missed you," John said with a gentle voice.
" Oh, I missed you too," Estelle replied as she looked up into his eyes.
" Let's walk a while," John said taking her by the hand. They both walked to the stream that ran through the back of the property where nothing but the sound of running water and birds could be heard.

" It's so beautiful this time of year, I wish it could last forever," Estelle said as she picked the wild daisies that grew alongside the stream. John walked over to Estelle and gave her his hand to help her up from the streams edge, as she rose a light breeze teased the hem of her dress.
" John," she said as she leaned her head into his chest.
" Yes Estelle," he answered as he stroked her hair.
" Promise me you'll never leave me."
" I could never leave you Estelle for I will always be with you no matter what may come." John answered as he wrapped his arms around her.
They both followed the stream till the midday sun filled the sky with the warmth of its rays. They stopped to rest in the shade of an old oak tree, with branches that spread across the stream and vines of tiny white blossoms hanging from each branch.
" It's true garden of Eden," Estelle said as the spring air filled her lungs.
" Remember when we played here as children, we used to get into so much trouble and have so much fun," John said as he looked across the running water. Still holding the flowers in her hand Estelle approached the stream.
" Where are you going?" he asked.
" Nowhere, just seeing if the stepping stones are still here." Estelle leaned over stream's edge into the water.
" They've probably washed away after all these years," John saying as he leaned back against the tree.
" I don't believe it, they are still here," she shouted as she began walking across them.
" Estelle, you better be careful you might slip," he cautioned her as he stood.
" Don't worry I'll be fine," she announced as she reached the middle of the stream. Remembering there was a deep hole in the middle she pretended to lose her balance. " John!" she cried, " Hurry." John jumped to his feet and ran to the edge of the stream and then onto the stepping stones.
" I'm coming Estelle," he yelled as he came closer. She was trying so hard not to laugh while at the same time trying to make it look real. As John reached out for Estelle's hand to stop her from falling, with both hands latched onto him she pulled him into the water.

As they sank beneath the water’s surface Estelle wasn't sure if he was going to laugh or explode with anger, so she quickly calmed her laughter by dropping her mouth below the water so only her eyes could be seen. His waterlogged body slowly raised out of the water and began to drift towards the bank. Unsure of what he was thinking, Estelle slowly approach him.
" John," she quietly called. John with his back turned smiled and continued to ignore her knowing that she hated it. Trying to play it back Estelle stormed out of the stream and back toward home.
She began counting the seconds before John would come running after her.
" Estelle," he yelled, " Estelle come on, I'm sorry." Hearing him call she continued walking knowing he would come after her. She bent to pick some flowers to make a halo, and as she bent John ran up behind her and grabbed her around the waist and causing them to both fall to the ground.
" I guess I deserve that," Estelle said as she rolled onto her back to face him.
" You bet you did." He said as he lay beside her.
" We better dry out before we head back for home," she suggested looking over to John.
" Do you think the stream will be here in ten years," she questioned.
" Sure, it will be, who would want to destroy something this beautiful."
" You're right, it is beautiful, you'd have to be mad to take away something like this," she said sitting up looking around at the surroundings.

As the warm mid-afternoon breeze began to blow their sun-dried clothes Estelle rose to her feet then pulling John to his.
" We had better get going, it's getting late," she said looking into his eyes.
" Well we better make a start you never know what may happen to a beautiful young woman such as yourself, so I shall be your escort," John said holding out his arm. The two young lovers reached the start of the dirt driveway that lead to Estelle's house, so the two parted with a kiss and went on their way.
" You're just in time dear," Estelle's mother said then smiling, " I'm about to set out supper, go wash your hands."
Estelle returned the smile and said, " I love you mama." Then ran out to the back porch to wash.
" Jack! come inside I won't call you again."
A few moments later everyone was seated at the table.    
" Henry would you please say grace," aske his wife. Estelle, Jack and their mother bowed their heads and closed their eyes and their father began.
" Dear lord, we are thankful for the day we have been given, and for the food that has been placed upon our table, we pray that it will be blessed to strengthen our bodies. Oh, and we are also thankful for young John for bringing Estelle home safely, amen. Estelle's father looked up and gave her a wink.

There was total silence at the table, not even Jack would speak as he was still a bit sore from his punishment that morning, then the silence was broken.
" Father," Estelle whispered, " I wish to apologize for running out this morning." Estelle stopped and looked over to her mother, her mother nodded, so she continued to eat.
" It was unforgivable your temper, but because you had a good reason for it you are forgiven." Her father said then continued to eat. Estelle helped her mother with the dishes and the cleaning of the kitchen so that desert may be prepared.
" Here, take this in to your father I'll be in soon." Her mother handed her a piece of chocolate cake.
" Thank you, mum," Estelle said with a smile, " Thank you for everything."

Chapter 4

" Billy, Jenny, hurry up or we’ll be late.” Suzan called as she set the table for breakfast. The two children came running down the hall and into the kitchen.” Mummy, when are we going to see grandma?” Jenny asked.
” Just as soon as we’ve finished breakfast and cleaned up.”

" Mrs Cavanagh, Mrs Cavanagh,” a voice called to Estelle. Light slowly crept into the darkness of her eyes as she began to open them.” Mrs Cavanagh,” the voice echoed once again.” Your daughter is here to see you.” The nurse assisted Estelle to be ready for her daughter.” Would you like me to brush your hair?” the nurse asked while straightening the pillows.
” Thank you dear,” Estelle answered with a smile. As the nurse began to brush a knock was heard at the door and then Suzan and the children entered the room.
” I’ll leave you now Mrs Cavanagh,” the nurse said then leaving the brush on the bedside table.
" Oh, mum it’s so good to see you, and you look so much better than last week.” Suzan leaned in to kiss her mother’s cheek.
” Grandma, when are you coming home?” Billy asked.
” Not for some time yet dear, the doctor thinks I’m not well enough just yet,” she explained.
” Here’s some money you two go down to the canteen and see what you can find,” Suzan handed the two children equal amounts of money and sent them on their way.
” Suzan,” Estelle reached out to her daughter’s hand.”
“Yes mum.” 
“When I’m well enough to leave the hospital, I intend to go back to Summerfield, only for a few days or at least for when the snow falls.” Estelle remembering how beautiful it was.
” Are you sure you want to do this mum, it’s such a long way to travel and you might end up in hospital again,” Suzan said as she sat upon the bed holding her mother’s hand.
” Please Suzan, it’s all I want to do before my time is to come," she explained.
" Tell you what, I'll talk to the doctor and see what he recommends."
" Thank you so much, you make me so happy," Estelle spoke with a soft calm voice.
" I'll be back in a few minutes, I had better go and get the kids and see what Doctor Hardings has to say," Suzan said then kissing her mother's forehead.

As Estelle lay there awaiting her verdict, she began to think of her beautiful field of flowers and how she longed to see them, to smell and to touch them once again. A small tear rolled down her cheek as the image of her love one passed filled her head. " Oh John, how I miss you so," she gently whispered.
Suzan eventually found the doctor, she hesitated for a moment and then said. " Doctor I know it's probably impossible, but mum was wondering, well she was actually hoping she could visit Summerfield.
" Summerfield, why?" he questioned.
" She wants to see the places she once lived as a girl.... "
" Are we going away mummy," Jenny interrupted.
" No Jenny."
" Well I can't really guarantee anything yet, but we'll see how she gets along."
Suzan and the children made their way back to Estelle's room, Billy and Jenny ran ahead to get their first.
" Billy, Jenny, stop running you know there's sick people in here," Suzan quietly raising her voice. The two came running into the room yelling,
" Grandma, grandma we're going on a holiday."
" Hold it right there you two, I don't know if we are just yet," Suzan said cutting them off before they could say any more.
" Mum I've spoken to the doctor and he said it will be a few more weeks before you can leave the hospital and even then, you have to take it easy," Suzan trying to make out everything would be ok.
" I don't know what I would do without you," Estelle said as she smiled.
" We better go now mum we've been long enough, and you need to rest if we are going to travel." Suzan leaned in and kissed her mother's cheek as did the children.
" We'll try come in tomorrow, love you mum." Estelle drifted off to sleep with a small feeling of excitement of things to come.

" Happy Birthday!" everyone shouted. Estelle's face lit up with surprise, she had thought everyone had forgotten her birthday.
" Oh, mum this is wonderful thank you so much," she said as she gave her mother a big hug.
" Is Charmaine coming?"
" I really don't know, I sent her a letter, but I never heard back," her mother paused for a moment then continued, " well never mind that now if she turns up she turns up. Come on let's get back to the party."
Half an hour had passed and still no sign of her sister, their mother was starting to worry as Charmaine was close to giving birth. Then through the backdoor a familiar voice was heard. " Well, where's the birthday girl." Dropping everything she help Estelle ran out to the back door.
" Charmaine!" Estelle shouted, " you came." Then throwing her arms around her sister.
" I wouldn't dream of missing your birthday for anything," She said as they both walked back into the living room.
" Oh, mum this is the best birthday I think I've ever had, just to have all of you here is plenty enough." Estelle said trying her best to hold back tears of joy.
" Did John come around?" Charmaine questioned.
" Ah no, he was unable to come, his family moved away," explained their mother.
" Oh, where to?"
" Melbourne."
" Oh Estelle, I'm so sorry, " Charmaine said reaching out for her sister's hand.
" May I be excused, I'm going up to my room," Estelle said as she wiped a tear from her cheek.

Estelle lay upon her bed reading a letter she had received a few days earlier; her heart was aching at the loneliness she felt from John's absence. The feelings of spring love filled her mind of what she and John had shared the season before.
" Estelle honey," her mother called " could you please come down here, I need some help to clean up."
Not answering she carefully folded the letter and placed it in her dresser draw then making her way down to the living room. She collected a few dishes that lay around the room. As she was leaving the room she sang out over her shoulder, " Hi John." In that instance sounds of dishes came crashing to the floor, Estelle's head popped out from around the corner of the kitchen door, her eyes lit up with so much excitement they looked like they were about to pop.
" JOHN!" She screamed then throwing herself into his arms. A small crystal-like tear fell from her eye and slipped to the corner or her mouth.
" You didn't think I'd miss your twenty second birthday did you," John said as he stroked her hair.
" Well you live so far away I didn't think you would be able to make it."
" When it comes to you, my Estelle, no distance is too far."
" Come on you two let's get a photograph, Estelle you move to the right and John place both arms around her so both Estelle's hands are inside yours," her mother instructed, " now smile." Jack came running into the room trying to be as gentlemanly as possible for a twelve-year-old can be saying " Well, when are you two to be married?".
" Wait till I get my hands-on you Jack Banks," Estelle hollered. Jack then ran flat tack out of the room laughing.
" Estelle," John said as he turned her to face him.
" Yes John." John then knelt before her gently taking her hands into his.
" John, what are you doing?" Estelle questioned with a strange look on her face.
" Estelle, we have been the best of friends our entire life, and I could not have been happier to have a friend such as you, we have had so many adventures together and I have now reached the time where I want to start a new adventure with not only my best friend, my one true soul mate, my one true love. So, with all to witness I come to you on bended knee, Estelle Banks would you do me the greatest honour of giving me your hand in marriage and becoming my wife?" John spoke in a soothing voice.

Estelle stood there motionless, eyes wide open and mouth gaping.
" Please say yes, my knee is killing me," John pleaded. Estelle let out a big scream and yelled as loud as she could,
" YES! yes John Cavanagh I will marry you." John jumped to his feet then picking up Estelle as he hugged her, both laughing like fools as he spun her around.
" What is it?" Estelle's mother said as she ran into the room.
" Mum. John and I are..." Estelle paused.
" Yes, what is it?" questioned her mother.
" John and I are getting married," Estelle announced trying to hold back her excitement. Instantly her mother let out a scream and threw her arms around John and then Estelle. Charmaine slowly entered the room with both hands resting on the hollow of her back.
" Hey what's all the excitement?"
" Oh, Charmaine isn't it wonderful." Her mother said turning to her.
" Isn't what wonderful." Charmaine said as she struggled to sit in the chair.
" I'm so sorry, I'm just so happy John just proposed to your sister and she said yes," explained her mother.
" Well it's about time."
" What do you mean it's about time," Estelle said? "
"I've seen this coming for some time now, especially the night of my wedding, I saw you two sitting under the tree out back." Charmaine said as she raised an eyebrow. " Ahh mum." Charmaine's breathing grew deeper.
" What is it dear."
" My water just broke, I think it's time," she said placing both hands around her belly.
" Estelle run out to the barn and get your father, John could you go find Jack for me, and I'll go collect some things for the hospital," instructed their mother who was always good in an emergency or any other crisis.

Everybody loaded into two cars and made their way to the hospital breaking every speed limit.
" Are we nearly there yet," Charmaine screamed for the back seat. Reaching the hospital everyone poured out of the cars and spilled into the hospital.
" Jack," said their mother, " you come with me."
" Where are we going?"
" To find a doctor." Jack and his mother ran down the corridor look for the doctor but instead finding a nurse.
" Oh, Sister excuse me," called Mrs Banks in a calm voice. The nurse not hearing kept on walking.
" NURSE! " Mrs Banks yelled with the deepest roughest voice. The nurse stopped dead in her tracks and turned to face Mrs Banks and Jack.
" How can I help you," the spoke in a superior tone.
" My daughter is about to give birth in your waiting room, could you please locate me a doctor."
" It won't be easy as all the doctors are out on call," the nurse explained, " I'm sorry but you'll just have to wait until one is available." Jack grabbed the nurse's watch that was pinned to her uniform and pulled her down to his level.
" Listen lady, if you don't get a doctor here in five seconds I'm gonna make you wish you weren't a nurse," Jack said as he looked her in the eye and started to show his teeth with a rather wide grin.
" Jack!" his mother's voice filled with a surprised tone.
" Well that goes double for me," Jack's mother said.
" I'll see if I can page one," replied the nurse a she straightened herself and her uniform.
" Mrs banks, we found a doctor," John yelled as he approached.
" You're a lucky lady," Jack said to the nurse looking up through his eyebrows. Jack, his mother and John ran back to the waiting room to be with Mrs Banks while Charmaine was in the delivery room.

What seemed like hours was only minutes. Everyone was pacing anxiously to know what was happening. After half an hour a nurse came out holding a baby girl.  
" Mrs Banks," the nurse called as she stepped forward. Charmaine's mother took the baby in her arms and held it like it was her own, then a few moments later another nurse came out holding another baby this time a boy.
" Oh Mrs Banks," the nurse said as she walked into the room, " Your daughter Charmaine has had twins." Then in unison like a choir the entire family said " TWINS!" and then there was a loud thump on the floor, everyone turned to see and when they did there lay Mr Banks flat on his back and out like a light, everybody burst into laughter.

Two orderlies helped Mr Banks to a nearby chair.
" Estelle fan your father " instructed her mother. Estelle sat next to her father fanning rapidly trying to bring him round. Mr Banks eyes began to creep open.
" What happened?" Mr Banks asked as he looked around the room.
" You fainted daddy," Estelle said as she kept on fanning.
" That's impossible, I'm a man and men don't faint," Mr Banks said as he strengthened his voice.
" Well now that you've decided to join us from not fainting, would you like to hold one of your grandchildren." Mrs Banks said walking up with a baby in each arm.

The small family huddled around the two babies, adoring and pinching their little bodies.
" Mrs Banks you may see your daughter now," the doctor announced.       
" Who?" Mrs Banks replied.
" Your daughter, Charmaine."
" Oh, yes, of course," Mrs Banks forgetting for a moment having a daughter.
" Hi mum," Charmaine said as her mother entered the room.
"How are you feeling dear?" Her mother pulled a chair closer to the bed and took Charmaine's hand.
" Just a little tired, but quite happy."
" Well you get rested and I'll come see you tomorrow." Her mother rose from the chair and kissed Charmaine on the cheek, her face lit up with so much joy and happiness she began to cry. The nurse handed Charmaine’s daughter to her and the sat upon the bed holding her son.
" They are beautiful children Mrs Maddison," the nurse commented.
" They are indeed." Charmaine said gazing at both babies.
" I'll leave you to it as I better get back to work," the nurse said placing the baby she held into a crib next to the bed. By the end of the week Charmaine had gained her strength and returned home with two healthy babies.

Six months had passed, and plans were under way for Estelle's wedding. Excitement had filled the hair as the wedding was set for spring.
" Mum, were you nervous?" Estelle questioned.
" Well, not at first but as time grew closer yes very much so. It's quite natural to feel this way dear you'll even start to doubt your decision.
John and Estelle came across a small white chapel with a bell tower out front.
" You know with a little work on the gardens and a bit of paint, this place could be perfect for the wedding," John said walking closer to the little building.
" John it's perfect. we could even place more stepping stones in the path. It's going to look beautiful." The next few months the entire family worked on the little chapel, painting, planting and repairing, ready for mid spring. Three weeks before the wedding the chapel was complete and was certainly a sight to be seen. Roses growing strong on either side of the entrance, small hedges were taking shape alongside the footpath, the white exterior of the little building shone in the sunlight and the bell sparkled as it reflected the light. So, the family celebrate with a big picnic on the chapel grounds.

A hush fell upon the valley of Summerfield, all that could be herd was the sound of wild finches and the light rustling of the trees as they danced in the spring breeze. The music played, Estelle and her father entered the little chapel, a pin drop could be heard from the silence of the guests. John slowly turned to see his beloved glide down the flower lined aisle toward him, it was though a spell had been cast upon the chapel. Estelle's gown flowed upon the light breeze that came through the tiny chapel and the scent of wild jasmine teased the senses of everyone it touched John grew breathless at the beauty of Estelle.
Mr Banks and Estelle reached the altar and placed his daughter's hands into John's hands and gave Estelle a kiss on her forehead. The two young lovers then took the last few steps and approached the priest and the ceremony began. Both Mrs. Banks and Mrs. Maddison began to cry even Charmaine shed a tear. The love from Estelle and John could be felt in everyone.

Chapter 5

" Mum." Estelle could hear her daughter's voice echoing in her head. She slowly opened her eyes to see her daughter Suzan sitting on the bed beside her. " Hello dear, you're early today," Estelle said thinking of visiting hours and the crappy nurse that works the morning shift.
" Mum, did you forget you're leaving today."
" Where am I going?" she questioned with a puzzled voice.
" Home mum, to Summerfield Valley."  A smile crept across Estelle's face, " Are we really going?"  
"Yes mum. Doctor Hardings said it would be ok and I thought we could go now so you could see your field of flowers before it was time for the first snowfall.
" Thank you, Suzan, thank you so much," Estelle said as she began to tear.

Suzan and an orderly escorted Estelle to the car and awaiting children.
" Grandma isn't it exciting," Jenny hollered as she hung out of the car window. Billy quickly opened the car door to allow his grandmother to sit in the front. With the help of the orderly Estelle carefully climbed into the car at the same time saying, " Hell, life's a bitch when you're old and sick."
The two children giggled at the sound of a curse word.
" Mum! please not in front of the kids.
" Oh, it's not you've never said a bad word." Estelle said glancing up from her seat belt. Suzan pulled out of the hospital parking bay and started their search for Summerfield Valley.
" How long do you think it will take to get there?" Estelle asked as she wiped some sweat from her forehead.           
" Well. We've only been on the road for a few hours mum, so we are looking at least another ten to twelve hours drive, so maybe everyone should get some sleep for now." Suzan explained.
" Mum I'm hungry," Jenny said leaning forward over the front seat.
" We'll get something as soon as we reach the next service station." Estelle fell into a deep sleep and drifted off to her memories.

" Happy Anniversary!" John said as he leaned over to kiss Estelle good morning.
" Hi there, Mr Cavanagh." She said as she gazed into John's eyes.
" Do you realise Mrs Cavanagh that we have now been married for three years." John said stroking her hair. " Wait there." John got off the bed and walked over to his coat that hung on the coat rack and returned with his hand closed. " Now close your eyes and don't open them till I say. One, two, three, now open." A silver locket sat in his hand glistening in the morning sun as it came through the bedroom window.
" Oh John, it's beautiful." Estelle opened the locket and inside there was a picture of John and an inscription that read...
" To my dearest love forever in my heart you'll be, John."
" I too have something for you, something I know you'll love. So, are you ready for it?" she said taking a deep breath. " John, I'm pregnant, we are going to have a baby."
There was a short silence in the room and then John let out a yell.
" Woohoo! wait, are you sure? how long? when did you find out? John asked as he sat back onto the bed.
" Two months, I didn't want to tell you before I wanted to keep it a surprise for now and let me tell you it wasn't easy."
" Well my lovely, it was a surprise worth waiting for." John said with the biggest grin then hugging her.
" Ok John you can stop hugging me now, I'm beginning to lose circulation in my legs."
" Oh sorry. Are you ok? How do you feel?"
" John I'm fine, really, I can still do everything like I did before." She said laying her hand upon the side of his face. John never looked so happy before, besides the day they married, and the radiance from the good news just shone from the young couple. As the months slowly drifted by John and Estelle were counting the months, the weeks and the days that were left till the birth of their first child.

Spring had finally arrived, and it wasn't long till it was time. Estelle was prepared for her time in hospital.
" John, do you have to go? there's only a week till the baby comes."
" Angel I'm sorry, I did everything I could to get out of it, but the boss wouldn't hear about it, I'm pretty sure I’ll be back in time to be with you. I'll call you as soon as I arrive. Ok?" 
" Well, ok but as soon as you arrive and not a minute after. I need to know everything went ok." She said as she took hold of her husband's hand. Standing on the front porch they gazed deeply into each other’s eyes as though it was the last time they would see one another. John leaned into Estelle and kissed her gently then placing his arms around her.
" I love you Estelle, more than anything in this world, and I promise I will be back in time to be with you." He kissed her once again and climbed into the waiting taxi. The two waved to each other as the car drove out of sight, a tear rolled down Estelle's cheek and the only sound she could hear was the sound of her heart beat grow louder. For the first time she felt alone.

Two days had passed and there had been no word from John and slight panic had begun to fill Estelle's head. A third day went by and still no word. She knew something was wrong, she could feel it deep within her soul. With a loud ringing of the doorbell Estelle woke with a fright, once again the doorbell rang. She slowly lifted her weary body from the armchair and made her way to the door, recalling her loved one’s absence she took a deep breath and opened it.
" Mamma, it's you, please come in."
" Oh, honey are you ok?" asked her mother.
" Yeah, I'm holding out, only a few more days to go."
" Where's John honey, is he at the market? "
" No, he's overseas on a business trip in New York, he said he'll be back in time for the birth but I'm starting to get a bit worried, I haven't heard from him in three days and just have the sickest feeling that something has gone wrong."
" Estelle, maybe he's just forgotten to call, or he just hasn't had a moment to spare to get to a phone yet," her mother trying to comfort her. " Come, I'll make us some tea, you really need to try not stress at this stage."           
" Mum he said he would call as soon as he arrived, he promised."
Estelle and her mother were interrupted by a loud knock on the door.
" Just a minute," Estelle called. Estelle and her mother approached the front door.
" Good afternoon ma'am, are you Mrs John Cavanagh?"
" I am Mrs Cavanaugh." Estelle said opening the door wider.
" I am Detective Harris, and this is my partner Detective Kelly." Announced the police detective as he displayed his badge. Estelle's face filled with fear and tears began to stream down her face, she let out a scream as she fell to her knees and she could feel her heart die for she knew the reason why the two detectives had come to see her.
" Ma'am," Detective Harris said as he knelt to help her. Detective Kelly stepped forward to speak to Mrs Banks.
" Ma'am, the plane Mr Cavanagh was on to New York went down three hundred miles before it reached the States, no survivors have been found. Please accept our condolences."
" Mrs Cavanagh, if there's anything we can do for you or help you with please let us know and we will do what we can."
" I'm sure we can manage. Thank you, thank you both." Estelle’s mother said as she showed the detectives the door.

" MOTHER!" Estelle screamed. A pool of blood could be seen where Estelle lay, she screamed again, her mother turned.
" Oh god, not this, not now. Detectives wait! it's my daughter, I think she's gone into early labour." Her mother and both Detectives gently placed Estelle into the back of the police car.
" Please hurry, she's lost a lot of blood." Estelle's mother said as she held her close. Some moments later they arrived at the hospital, Detective Kelly ran into emergency to get assistance.       
" Hurry there's an emergency. A woman had come into early labour and looks like she's lots a lot of blood." Hollered Detective Kelly as he reached the front desk. Estelle's screams could be heard through the E.R. doors, tears flooded down her face. Her mother and Detective tried their best to comfort her.
" Estelle baby it won't be much longer, help is coming." Her mother said as she held her close to her chest.
Detective Harris lifted her from the car and began to carry Estelle into the hospital, a Doctor and several nurses met the Detective, Mrs Banks and Estelle at the glass doors that divided the outside world to that of the sanctuary of the hospital. With speed and agility Estelle's weak body was carefully placed upon the awaiting bed.

" Nurse Thomas, prepare the I.C.U. and the O.R. " the doctor turned and said, " Ma'am, Sir, you'll have to wait here."
" How long before we know anything?" Estelle's mother trembled. " I'm not too sure as yet, we have to see what damage has been done, we'll let you know as soon as soon as we know something, so please take a seat it's now a waiting game, we will do everything we can for your daughter." The doctor turned and ran to the Operating Room.

" Ma'am, come sit down I'm sure the staff here are doing all they can for her." Detective Harris and Kelly waited with Mrs Banks to try bringing her comfort. Estelle's pain could be heard in the waiting room, Mrs Banks lost her breath at the fear for her daughter's moment of trial.
" Detective Harris, what could be taking them so long. They've been in there for two hours, what if something's wrong?"
" Ma'am, please stay calm and think positive, I'm sure both your daughter and her baby will be fine, this is the finest hospital in the county. Would you like some coffee or maybe some tea?" Det. Harris offered.      
" Ah, yes, please. Tea would be nice."
" I'll get it," Det. Kelly said, " I'll get us all one."
" Detective Harris."           
" Ma'am, please call me Marc."
" Very well. Marc, I am very thankful for all the help you have given me and my daughter..."
" Pardon me ma'am." The doctor said as he entered the room. " Your daughter is doing fine, and you have a very beautiful granddaughter. They are both in recovery."
" Can I see her now?" Mrs Banks asked sighing with some relief.
" Certainly, if you'd like to come with me I'll take you to her."
" I'll wait here." Det. Harris said as he took a seat.
" Oh, please come, I'm sure she'll be most happy to see you." Estelle's mother and Detective Harris entered the quiet hospital room where the exhausted young woman lay resting. " Estelle honey, it's me, your mother." Her mother stroked her hair as she looked down upon her tired face.
" Mumma. Where am I?
" You're in hospital. You just had your baby."
" I did? What did I have?" Estelle softly spoke.
" You had a very beautiful and healthy girl." A small tear made its way down Estelle's cheek and moistened her pillow.

Still in a daze from the past events, Estelle glanced around the semi dark room, the detective Marc Harris was standing in the shadows at the end of her bed, his face could not be seen.
" Oh John, I knew you'd make it, I just knew... "
" Ah, honey, this is Detective Harris. You remember him, don't you?" said Mrs Banks as she stepped forward and taking her daughter's hand.
" Oh yes; I remember now." Estelle recalling everything as she looked away.
" Maybe I should give you both some time alone," Detective Harris said as he walked to the door.                                                                              
" No, please stay, after all if it wasn't for you and your partner I probably wouldn't be here."

Time past on for Estelle and her daughter, and the horrifying news of John's death was now just a memory, but the memory of her first love and beloved husband was still very strong and filled her heart every day. There were times where Estelle would just sit and lose herself in her memories of the day of John's proposal and when they would sit under the large tree out back and talk of things to come and how their future would be as Mr. and Mrs. Cavanagh.

Sixteen years had passed, Estelle, her mother and the rest of her family were preparing for Suzan's sixteenth birthday celebration. Grandmother Banks was in the kitchen cooking up a storm, Estelle's brother Jack was clearing the back garden to set out the table, father Banks was getting the wood together for the open fire pit and Estelle and Suzan were hanging streamers and    paper lanterns from tree to tree across the garden. Once the working bee had stopped they all stood back and took it all in.

" It's wonderful. Thank you so much." Suzan hugged her mother with such gratitude Estelle's eyes began to tear up.
" Anything for you my angel," and she kissed her daughter on the forehead.
" I'm sure father would have thought so to. Do you think he is here today?" Suzan asking holding her mother's hands.
" Angel he wouldn't miss it for the world."                                                                
" I understand today must be hard for you mum, being it was to this day dad, well." Suzan paused before saying more.
" Suzan, yes, it is, but it's ok, I'm ok. You see, I have you a wonderful image of your father every time I look at you. He's in your smile, your eyes and sometimes in your laughter, but most of all in our hearts where he will always live on."

In the distance cars could be heard as they drove down the track that lead to the house, and so the family quickly finished doing their few chores in time for the guests. Estelle stood inside the living room watching through the window as Suzan ran out to the front gate to start greeting her friends, her mind wondered a little and a smile came to her eyes.
" She's beautiful, you have done well." A voice gently spoke to her ear and a warm breath could be felt.
" Yes, she is. We had made a beautiful young woman, and she is just like you my love, in so many ways. Oh, John I miss you so much." Estelle said as she placed her hand over her heart.
" I am always here my love, you will never be alone for with every beat you feel within I will sweeten with my touch, and if you want to see me just close your eyes and I will be here." A light warm breeze brushed her cheek and she could smell John's scent and, in that instance, he was gone. Estelle smiled a little more as she touches her cheek and a small tear settled on the tip of her finger. " I love you." She whispered.

" Mother; are you ok?" Suzan asked as she took her mother's hand.
" Yes, of course. I'm just marvelling at how lovely you have grown." Suzan embraced her mother, and at the same time Estelle could feel John with them.
" Ok, now let's get out back and get things going." Estelle and Suzan wiped away any tears and both headed to the back garden to the festivities. Streamers and party whistles were being set off. The table was set with sandwiches, slices, cupcakes, and a large punch bowl in the middle. Mr. Banks had started the fire pit and collected long sticks, so the guests could roast marshmallows over the fire, while Mrs. Banks brought out the roast meats and vegetables. The radio played in the background for entertainment and the lanterns were lit, the site was splendid, and laughter could be heard all around. Estelle watched the festivities from the back veranda with a smile and the comfort of the feeling from John by her side. Then she noticed a young man making eyes at Suzan.
 " I remember that look, it was the one I gave to you at your sister's wedding." A whisper touched her ear. Estelle had a giggle.
" Oh, I remember, and it was that moment I knew." She stood watching her daughter and this young man as they talked, and just like herself and John they wandered off to sit under that same tree where she and John dreamed of their future.  

Time drifted on for Estelle and her family. The seasons changing and children growing up and Estelle could feel the touch of time as the years went by, but the one thing that never changed was her memories. The memories of her time as a girl and of the time most precious to her with her beloved John. She often sat listening to his whispers on the wind and the gentle touch of his hand to her cheek. In the distance of her mind she could hear the echo of a telephone bell ringing. She came back from her time in the past and looked around the room and then realised where she was, she slowly stood and walked over to the phone.

" Hello?" Estelle spoke into the handset. 
" Hello Mrs. Cavanagh, this is Toby I'm calling to let you know that Suzan has gone into labour." It was her daughter's husband Toby, " I'm just settling Suzan in, and I will be right out to pick you up, say twenty minutes." 
Estelle's eyes widened " Oh thank you Toby dear, I'll be ready in the shake of a lamb’s whats-it." She could feel her energy pick with the exciting news and went straight to a picture of John. 
" How exciting my love, there are going to be new children around us, oh you would be so proud of our little girl. Well no time to waste must get ready." Estelle and Toby arrived at the hospital in record time, Estelle a little befuddled from the drive but in one piece. The two hurried into the birthing ward where Suzan was not too far off giving birth.
 “Mum.”                                                               
" I'm right here dear, you are doing so well, and I am very proud of you and you can bet your father is too." Estelle took her daughter's hand and moved some hair from her face.                                                                 
“Where’s Toby?”                                                                                 
" I'm right here angel." he said as he walked to the other side of the bed.
" Is there anything you need?" he asked
“Are you serious right now!" Suzan let out a scream as another contraction was hitting. Toby stepped back in fear and looked over at Estelle. She gave him a wink and said, " Don't worry dear women are usually like a possessing demon in these situations, it's nothing against you.”
"Are you serious, nothing against him! he did this to me. It's all his fault, and if I wasn't lying here right now, he'd be a few body parts lighter." Suzan screamed again, as the contractions were very close together now. Toby's eyes widened as Suzan glared at him as she screamed once again.” 
“Toby dear, maybe you could go to the canteen and get me a tea please." Estelle asked as she could see he was about to lose it. 
" Tea, yes tea would be good." He said taking steps towards to door. " Good calming tea." 
" Doctor, do you think it will be much longer?" Estelle questioned.                                         
" Well contractions are five minutes apart so hopefully any moment now." He explained. " Ok, I see the head. Now Suzan I'm going to need you to start pushing.”  With her face turning red and sweat pouring from her brow she screamed again as she pushed with everything she had. Estelle held her hand tight with one hand and whipped the sweat away with the other and at that moment Toby walked into the room.                  
" No way." Toby then dropped the teas and hit the floor like a bag of bricks. As Suzan pushed and screamed she saw Toby on the floor, her eyes widened and at the same time yelled, " Are you friggin kidding me!" and then it happened a little girl was born. 
Both Suzan and Estelle cried at the sight of the newborn and Toby finally came around. 
" We have a little girl  Toby." Suzan spluttered out through the tears." Toby stood and stumbled over to the bed and kissed his wife on the head. 
" She's beautiful, but um why do you still look pregnant?" he asked.
Suzan looked up at him through her brown and said, " Honey you carry one of these around for nine months and see if you fall back into shape." Ten minutes had passed, and Suzan felt the sensation of pressure on her pelvis, and then let out a scream.
The Doctor came back into the room. 

" I was wondering when this was going to happen.”  
" Happen? What do you mean, happen?" All three of them asked. 
" What; you didn't know. You're having twins." The doctor explained as he readied himself for the next delivery.                                            
" WHAT! ah no, I was told there was only one! Suzan said as she began to breath heavy.                                                               
" Ok Suzan you need to start pushing as this one is on its way." Toby took the first baby and sat in a chair off to the side and Estelle once again took her daughter's hand and started to comfort her as best she could. Then in no time she gave birth to the second baby and this time a boy.            
" Well congratulations you now have a baby boy."  The attending nurse wrapped up the baby and handed him to Suzan. 
Tears of joy and exhaustion rolled down her face, the room was full of so much love even the nurse shed a tear.                     
" Well done my baby." Estelle said as she kissed Suzan in the head. The baby boy let out a cry that sounded like a squeaky toy and was followed by the other baby doing the same.                                                                                   
" Oh, Suzan I am so proud of you. As if I couldn't be any happier than I already am." With the other baby in arms Toby walked over to the bedside and sat in the chair next to Suzan so both babies could be together. A silence filled the room and all that could be heard was the soft sounds of the babies as they breathed.                    

Chapter 6

" Mum, Mum, it's time to wake up. I'm pulling into a roadside cafe for a bite to eat." Suzan said as lightly tapping her mother's hand.
" Have we arrived." Estelle asked as she looked around in a sleepy daze.
" Nearly there mum, just over an hour to go. Billy, Jenny, come on guys let's get something to eat." Suzan reaching over to wake the children. The small weary family stumbled into the cafe and stared at the menu that was posted above the counter. With minds boggling at what they read, they finally came to a decision. " Billy, Jenny, what would you like?" Suzan still reading the menu.
" Can I have a burger and some fries?" Billy asked.
" Me too mummy."
" Mum, what would you like to have?"
" Oh, I'll just have some carrot cake and coffee."
" Hi, my name is Tracey how can I help you?" Announced a young girl from behind the counter.
" Yeah, ah, can I get two small burgers with fries, two carrot cakes and two flat whites please." Suzan ordered as she rummaged through her bag.
" Will that be everything?"
" Oh, and two small milkshakes, one chocolate and one strawberry please."
" If you would like to find a table, I'll bring everything out when it's ready." Tracey said as she handed a table number to Jenny.

The little family sat quietly at the table, the two children sipping on their milkshakes and Estelle and Suzan drinking their coffees while waiting for their food as it was placed on the table.
" I am so hungry." Billy said as he looked at his burger.
" Well, if you're hungry hurry up and eat and you won't be hungry anymore." Suzan said as she organised their plates.
" Mum, are you ok?"           
" I'm fine dear. Just a little excited I'm finally going home, a place I never thought I'd see again."
Everyone quietly ate their meals with anticipation to complete the long tiresome journey.
" Ok, who needs to go to the toilet before we start off again." Suzan asking the children while cleaning up their mess.
" Mum, do you need to go?" After refreshing themselves they all piled into the car and began the final stretch of the journey.

" What's that smell mummy?" Jenny asked as she stuck her head out of the window.
" It's the wild blossoms that grow in the fields." Estelle explained as she soaked in the freshness.
" Will we get to see the flowers mum?"
" All in good time Billy, all in good time."
" It still looks the same. Just like I remember it." Estelle said as she looked over the scenery they passed. She could see visions of herself and John as they ran through the fields and the fun they had catching frogs in the creek.
" Mum, are you OK?" Suzan noticed a tear glisten in the sunlight as it settled on her mother’s-tired cheek.
" Oh, I'm fine. I couldn't be happier." Estelle smiled as she continued to watch the endless fields pass by. As the day went on and night began to creep its way in Suzan pulled into a small motel as you entered Summerfield Valley.     
" Ok. everybody, it's not much I know but it's the only one they had left." Suzan prepared the tired travellers as she opened the door. " Well, everyone we had better get some sleep, we have a big day tomorrow."  
" Goodnight mummy." The two children kissed their mother and jumped into their beds. " We love you."

With the freshness of the air and the singing of the birds, and the soothing warmth of the sun's rays, Estelle's eyes crept open to view the wondrous countryside that was once a memory for what seemed like an eternity.
" Billy, Jenny, it's time to wake up," Suzan hollered as she walked into her mother's room, " Mum' it's time to wake up. Oh my god, mum! mother!" Suzan yelled as she ran to the front door.
" What's wrong mum?" Billy asked as he rubbed his eyes.
" Nothing honey I'll be back in a few minutes." Suzan ran into reception, " Excuse me, please, have you seen my mother this morning, she seems to have wandered off."
" Well, I did see and elderly lady going down the street earlier on."
" Thank you so much." Suzan then ran off in the same direction to find Estelle.

" Suzan where are you rushing off to?" Estelle questioned her panic-stricken daughter.
" Mum, where the hell have you been?" Suzan yelled out.
" I'm sorry dear, I was just so excited to be home I went for a little walk down to the store, and don't curse at me. Now, come inside and have some breakfast."
" Mum, next time you go somewhere, please let me know, you really had me worried."
Estelle and her family began their search for the places where she once roamed and played as a young girl. The air was crisp and clear, and the chill of winter was beginning to fill the air, but that was not enough to stop Estelle from looking and searching for the memories she desperately held onto, especially the field of wild multicoloured flowers where she and John once spent their youth.
" Suzan, may we go back to the motel now, I'm feeling a little tired." Estelle said try to keep her weary eyes from closing.
" Yeah sure, are you ok mum?"
" Yes, I'm fine, it's probably all the excitement. At my age it's a lot to handle."

The next morning the sun crept its way through an opening in the curtains that hung in Estelle's room, she could hear the sweet song of the morning birds as they echoed in her mind. A smile touched her lips as she heard the sound of her John's voice.
" Good morning my angel." His voice still sounded like it did the day they married, and she could still smell the cologne he wore and remembered how it made her dizzy. A light gentle breeze touched her cheek and she knew John was there with her.
" Morning mum. I thought we would go for a picnic at the park today, do you think you would feel up to it?" Suzan asked as she knocked on the bedroom door.
" Oh yes, I'm feeling much better thank you and that's a lovely idea."
" Mum, I have a small surprise planned for you, I'm sure you will enjoy." Suzan said as she helped her mother into the car.
The two children were busy playing in the playground and Suzan and Estelle gathered together the leftover food.
" So, where's this surprise I'm supposed to get?" Estelle questioned.
" Hello Estelle." A voice came from behind some trees.
" Charmaine? Is it really you?" Estelle tearing up as she turned. The two sisters stood for a moment looking at each other, then embraced, both with tears streaming down their faces they held the other tight not wanting to ever let go.
" Hello Estelle."     
" Keith! it's so good to see you again. Thank you, Suzan this has indeed been the most wonderful day, thank you, thank you." Estelle then turned and held her daughter.

" Have you been to the field yet?" Charmaine asked as everyone sat back at the picnic table.
" No, not as yet. I'm going to try and get mum there tomorrow." Suzan explained.
" It feels so good to be back in Summerfield." Charmaine said as she looked around the landscape.       
" We better get back to the motel, the air is changing and it's getting on." Suzan advised.
" Suzan, can I speak with you for a moment,” Charmaine took Suzan aside, " How long does your mother have?”                                                       " Well, it's a little hard to tell, mum's hanging on a fine thread, she could pass at any given time, the doctor didn't think she would even get this far.”    "Is it that bad?" Charmaine asked as she held back tears.
“Mum wants to go see the flowers tomorrow. Will you and Keith come with us? I'm sure mum would love you both to be there.”                             
" We would love to. Well we had better get going it's starting to get a little chilly." Charmaine said as she pulled her shawl around her shoulders.
" Here we are mum. Okay guys both of you carry the picnic gear in and I'll help grandma." Suzan instructed. Suzan unbuckled and turned to Estelle.
" Mum, we're back at the motel." She lightly tapped her mother's hand. " Mum, we're back, oh god no. MUM! wake up dammit!" Suzan began to scream. " Billy, Jenny, hurry get in the car we've got to go to the hospital." With smoke billowing from the tyres Suzan raced to the hospital as fast as she could without stopping for anything. She pulled up outside of emergency and ran inside.  
" Please I need help." She yelled but there was no response. " Will someone bloody well help me my mother is dying, she's in the car!" Suzan viciously screamed. 

Some moments later Charmaine and Keith arrived at the hospital.                                                            
" How is she?" Keith asked.                                                           
” I don't know, they haven't told me anything yet. Aunt Charmaine why are they taking so long.”                                     
 " Suzan honey, I'm sure they are doing the best they can.”                                                                                            
" Look, here comes a doctor now." Keith said raising to his feet.
" Suzan, I'm very sorry but it’s not good. The cancer cells have now spread to your mother's brain, and unfortunately there isn't much more that we can do except to give her pain killers to make her as comfortable as possible.”                                                         
" So, how much time do you think she has left?" Suzan asked with the swelling of tears in her eyes.”                                          
" Well, twenty-four hours at the most, maybe two days. Well I have to go on rounds now but please do not hesitate to page me if there are any problem.”                                                           
" Thank you, doctor, can we see her?”                                           
" Sure, but try not to be too long, she really needs to rest.”                                                                                            
" Where are the children?" Keith asked looking around the waiting room.                                                                                            
" They're up in the nursery, I didn't want them to see mum this way." 
Suzan entered her mother's room first followed by Charmaine and then by Keith. Suzan sat in the chair that was placed by the bed." Oh mum, you can't go yet. you're so close to where you want to be." She touched her mother's hand followed by a cry of pain and then a flow of tears. Charmaine could not hold her tears any  longer. She held Suzan tight, even that was not enough to ease the pain they both felt.                                  
“Suzan."                                                            
" Mum?" Suzan said turning to the pale body that lay before her.                                                                                        
" Suzan, listen to me. I know I don't have much time left, but promise me one thing, please. Before I die take me to the field.”          
" But, mum it's said to snow any day now.”                                                        
" Please, promise me. it's the only thing I want before it's too late." Estelle begged with what breath she could manage.               
" Okay, I'll see what I can do." Suzan then kissed her mother and went to find the doctor. A tired smile crept upon Estelle's face.                              
" Estelle what are you smiling about?" Charmaine asked as she sat in Suzan's place.                                                                    
" After all these years, I'm finally going to be with John again. How I have waited for the moment to be reunited with him.”                            
Suzan came back into the room. 
" Mum, I've spoken with the doctor and he said it would be okay for you to go in the morning. He is arranging and ambulance and a wheelchair.”  With the wonderful news Suzan brought Estelle felt a calming relief touch her heart.                                                                        
" It's getting quite late, so we'll all be back and see you in the morning." Suzan, Charmaine and Keith kissed Estelle goodnight and left the hospital.

That night Estelle could feel the calmness of death flow through her and fill her dreams of wondrous things, but the one thing the she would remember is the sight of her husband. Estelle could feel the love and warmth of her loved one and the place where she walked.  
" Estelle." A voice floated among the mist that surrounded her.
" Estelle." The voice echoed, this time much clearer.   
" John, is it you?" Estelle called and reaching out. As she did she noticed something different, for her hands were the hands of a young woman, a warm breeze gently touched the white gown she wore.                                                                                    
" Hello Estelle, I've been waiting a long time for this moment."                                                                                   
" John?" Estelle looked up, " Oh John my love.”  The two beings embraced and then gazed into each other’s eyes. John took Estelle by the hand.
" Come with me, I have something to show you." And then both walked down a stone path. A few moments past, then like the flick of a switch a light of brilliance filled the darkness, and all was revealed, for they stood in a field of flowers that shone with such a brilliance of colours.
" Estelle, my angel, this is where I will greet you tomorrow." He explained.                                                                                   
" John, this seems so real.”                                                              
" My angel this is real, you can touch them too. This may not be earth, but everything is as real here as it is there.”                                
" If this isn't earth, where are we?" Estelle questioned.                                
" This place is known as Paradise. It's a place where there is no pain, no suffering or illness, it's where the spirit comes to rest before its journey home. It's time for you to go now, our daughter is coming for you."
Estelle opened her eyes to the sound of her daughter's voice. 
" Well mum, today is the day you will see the field.” The nurses helped Estelle into the ambulance and loaded the wheelchair into the back.          
" Aunt Charmaine, can you take the children I would like to go with mum.”                                                                                    
" Of course, Keith and I will follow behind." 

The two vehicles made their way to the edge of the field, where the flowers grew wild and in a rainbow of magnificent colours. Estelle's heart filled with joy as she knew it would not be long before she was to be reunited with the ones she loved and longed for. They gently lifted Estelle from the ambulance and into the wheelchair. The wind was cold and bitter but scented with the aroma of the flowers that lay before her.                               
" Here mum, have this." Suzan then tucked a woollen rug around her mother's legs.                                                                 
" Thank you dear, thank you so much for everything." Estelle said looking up to her daughter.                                                     
" Oh mum. I love you so, so much and I know I could have told you more often.”                                                                        
" I know my darling, it's alright. Is Charmaine here?”                                   
" Yeah, I'll get her." Suzan then kissed her mother.”                                            
" Charmaine, I'm so happy you came, I could not have asked for a better big sister, give me a hug.” Charmaine bent down to the chair and gave Estelle a hug she could never forget.                                                                             
" I love you Estelle, I'm going to miss you." Charmaine then began to cry.                                                                                        
" Okay, I'm ready. Take me to the field." Estelle gently spoke.  Suzan, Charmaine, Keith, Billy and Jenny walked with the ambulance driver as he pushed the wheelchair into the middle of the field of flowers. As the breeze blew Estelle could feel her freedom come closer. The frail bodied woman sat in the field surrounded by the beauty she loved. Some of the petals were picked up by the winter breeze and danced around her showering her with their beautiful aromas, dark clouds of snow began to fill the sky. Estelle opened her  withered hand to catch the first snow flake as she did many times as a child, but for this was to be the last time. As the snowflake fell and came to rest upon her hand, so to would she breath her last breath that would give her life. 

A hush had fallen around them as a brilliant ray of light cut through the cloud lit up the field where the family stood filling them with the warmth it gave. Suzan looked through the brightness at a figure standing before her, she wiped the tears from her eyes to focus and standing there was her father. No words were spoken he simply smiled and took Estelle by the hand as she stood up from the wheelchair. Both spirits looked to Suzan and blew her a kiss then turned and walked off in the field, and as quick as it came the golden ray of light was gone and Estelle and John were once again united for all time and eternity.  


THE END.