The Old Man had been around the block three times. His first marriage was a wash to a woman who was more interested in bedding the entire male population than in being his wife. She left him for a Mexican hotel magnate and moved south of the border. Hasta la vista.
His second wife was a blond beauty with a crazy streak a mile wide. She gave him one child only. That was it. Then #2 wife moved back to the city where she felt more normal. “Sometimes all those trees can make you crazy, you know?” she said before she left.
Old Man’s third and final wife, Marianna, was a handsome bookish woman who delighted in the Old Man’s cowboy charm. The marriage was successful because she was able to spend many hours happily reading and sewing in his quiet company. She was a fabulous hostess and organized frequent family gatherings for every occasion and holiday.
Everyone was especially fond of their Presidents’ Day party held on top of their hill with a full out BBQ, live country music, and REAL fireworks shot out of cannons. It was always a gift to be invited to these soirees. Kristie was sure that they spent thousands of dollars on these big parties, and everyone usually had a great time.
“What’s she doing here?” one of the women asked referring to Kristie. She decided the best way to handle this comment was with a compliment, “Hi! You look fantastic!” Kristie exclaimed. “What are you up to these days?”
Just at that moment one of the cannons exploded with the first of the fireworks and everyone’s focus shifted to the show. As it got darker, the exploding colors, dripping into the water of the lake, that magnificent view of the Pacific on one side backed by a ring of giant trees on the other. Jack came up behind her, wrapped her in his arms and whispered love in her ear, “No need to worry, the whole fire department is here.” Boom! Boom! Boom! This place was heaven! 186 Degrees.
(First published 10/12/11)
