Picket Fences!

Picket Fences!  Part 51



You are invited to the wedding of Julie Edwards, daugter of Peter and Mary Lou Edwards and Nathan Martin, son of Sam and Emily Martin.



The ceremony is about to begin over at Buford Falls Church.



"Family and friends, we welcome you today to witness the marriage of  Nathan and Julie. You have shared and contributed to their lives in the past, and by witnessing their marriage ceremony today, Julie and Nathan ask you to share in their future."





The bride's parents Peter and Mary Lou Edwards were seated together on one of the  front pews.



Their long-time neighbors and best friends Larry and Joy Anderson were seated behind them.



Michael Jones was seated with his sister Judy.  They are friends and neighbors of both the bride and the groom.



The groom's parents Emily and Sam Martin were seated on the front pew on the other side of the church.


The groom's twin sister Nancy Martin was seated beside the bride's sister Carrie Edwards.



Kevin Anderson and Ryan Carlson were seated together.  They are neighbors and friends of both the bride and the groom.



The preacher's wife Gwen Spain was sated on the last pew.



Nathan stood at the alter with his brother, best man Jimmy Martin awaiting his bride.





Maid Of Honor Arlene (Anderson) Martin the bride's best friend  entered the church and walked down the asile.



Arlene was wearing a floor-length aqua blue gown with a matching bow in her hair.



The bride entered the church, wearing a floor-length white, lace gown and a fingertip length veil.



The bride made her way down the asile to join her groom under the wedding arch.


"Julie and Nathan,  may you pledge to each other to be loving friends and partners in marriage. To talk and to listen, to trust and appreciate one another; to respect and cherish each other's uniqueness, and to support, comfort, and strengthen each other through life's joys and sorrows. May you promise to share hopes, thoughts, and dreams as you build your lives together. May your lives be ever intertwined, your love keeping you together. May you build a home that is compassionate to all, full of respect and honour for others and each other. May your home be forever filled with peace, happiness, and love", said Rev. Spain.





"I Nathan, take you Julie, to be my wife, to have and to hold, from this day forth, to love, honor, and cherish, to comfort and respect, in sorrow or in joy, in hardship or in plenty, so long as we both shall live", he said.
"I Julie, take you Nathan, to be my husband, to have and to hold, from this day forth, to love, honor, and cherish, to comfort and respect, in sorrow or in joy, in hardship or in plenty, so long as we both shall live", she said.



"The wedding ring is a symbol of unity into which your two lives are now joined in an unbroken circle; in which, wherever you go, you will return to one another", said the pastor.


"Julie, I offer this ring as a symbol of my love and devotion. Let it always be a reminder of my vows to you", said Nathan.


Then he placed the ring on her finger.



"Nathan, I offer this ring as a symbol of my love and devotion. Let it always be a reminder of my vows to you", said Julie.



The she placed the ring on his finger.


"Julie and Nathan, may your home be a haven of peace and your relationship be one of truth and understanding.
May you enjoy length of days, fulfillment of hopes, and peace and content of mind as you, day by day, live and fulfill the terms of this covenant you have made with one another.  And now, for as much as you have made your vows, each to the other, and have declared the same by giving and receiving your rings, I pronounce that you are husband and wife.  Congratulations, you may kiss the bride", said the pastor.



Nathan gave Julie a romantic kiss.





"Ladies and gentlemen, it is my privilege to introduce to you for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Martin", said Rev. Spain.

There was a reception following the ceremony . . .





Julie cut the first slice of wedding cake . . .



While Nathan waited.



She crammed it into Nathan's mouth.



He laughed at his bride's shenanigans.



Then she gave him a romantic kiss on his cake covered mouth.


"I love you Nathan", she said.

"And I love you Julie", he said.



Julie's dad Peter proposed a toast to the newlyweds.



Nathan and Julie . . .



Joy, Emily, Nancy, Judy, Mike and Arlene and . . .



Also Kevin joined in the toast.


Then Jimmy's dad Sam proposed a toast to the newlyweds . . .



Mary Lou, Carrie, Nathan and Julie joined in the toast.



Nancy, Jimmy, Judy and Mike also joined in.


Before the newlyweds left the reception, Nathan gave the pastor a thumbs up to show his appreciation.



Nathan called Transpotation.   When a taxicab arrived a few minutes later . . .





Julie and Nathan got in.



To be  continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 52





At the end of Part 50 Julie and Nathan left in a taxi to find their own place.



The taxi  took them to the house Julie's grandparents gave her when they moved to Florida.





When they got out of the taxi and hurried into the house.



Nathan carried Julie over the threshold.


He gave her a romantic kiss.



"I'm going to take a bath and change into something more confortable", she said.

"Alright Mrs. Martin.  I'll wait for you in the bedroom", he said.





Nathan relaxed on the bed and waited for Julie to join him.



"I think our wedding was beautiful", said Julie.

"Yes, I think it was too", he said.



"And you were the most beautiful bride I've ever seen", he said.


"I felt like a princess marrying my handsome prince", she said.



Nathan gave her a romantic kiss.



They madeout.



Are you ready to do woo hoo with your prince?", he asked.



And Julie said "YES!"



"I love you Nathan", she said.



"I love you too", he said.


At Rhys' place . . .



Ryan came into the livingroom and said "Dad, I need to talk to you about something."



"Sure, sit down", said Rhys.



"Jennifer's pregnant and I don't know what to do", said Ryan.



"Is the baby yours?", asked Rhys.

"Yeah, it's mine.  She ain't done woo hoo with nobody but me", he said.

"You could marry her or if you don't want to do that, I've got another idea", said Rhys.

"I don't want to marry nobody", said Ryan.

"Well, ask her to come over so we can discuss my other idea", said Rhys.



Ryan called Jennifer and invited her over.  She said she would be glad to come.



She arrived a few minutes later.





Ryan greeted her with a hug.

"My dad wants to talk to you", he said.


"Ryan told me you were going to have his baby", said Rhys.



"Come sit down, so we can discuss it", said Rhys.



As soon as Jennifer sit down Rhys asked "Do you want to keep the baby and raise it yourself?"



"Yes, I do.  I already have a job, so I think I'll be able to manage", she said.  



"Well, since it's my son's baby and he ain't gonna mary you.  I'll provide you a small house and give you an allowance each month for the baby", said Rhys.



"I wouldn't feel right taking your money", she said.

"Nonsense, that baby is my grandchild.  The money will help you with the extra expenses", said Rhys.


"Alright, I don't want to deprive my baby of anything.  I'll agree with what you suggested.   Does that sound alright to you Ryan?", she asked.





"Yeah, sounds good to me", said Ryan.



"There's a nice little house over on Crumbletop Lane that's available.  I'll see to getting it ready for you to move in as soon as possible", said Rhys.

"Thank you Rhys", said Jennifer, "I guess I better be going on home now."



Ryan kissed her goodbye.



And Jennifer left to go home.


At Jonathan's place the following day . . .



It was time for Jonathan's oldest son to grow up into an adult.



Nathan came to his cake and blew out the candles while everyone cheered.



He started growing up . . .



And became an adult.


It started getting late, so the invited guests . . .









Left to go home.



The following morning the schoolbus and the carpool stopped in front of the house.




The twins got on the bus to go to school.




The carpool was for Nathan.  He started his first day on the job as a Service Station Attendant.

To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 53


The next day at Arlene and Jimmy's house . . .



Joy and Kevin . . .



Larry . . .



Emily and Julie . . .



And Nathan had been invited to a birthday party for David.



When it was time Jimmy brought their son David to his birthday cake.





He helped the toddler blow out the candles.



Joy, Arlene and Emily cheered.


Jimmy sit his son on the floor . . .





And David grew up well into a cute child.



The next morning the school bus came at 8:30 A.M.



To pick up David for his first day of school


Arlene and Jimmy's carpool also came at 8:30 A.M.



Over at Regan's place that afternoon . . .



She called Rhys to remind him that today was Megan's birthday.  She was having a family party and asked him to bring his boys.



Rhys arrived a few minutes later with his three sons (Ryan, Kevin and Noah).  

 

Rhys held Megan Grace so Noah could "talk to the baby".



Then Ryan "talked to the baby".



Regan chatted with Ryan and Kevin.






When it was time for Megan Grace to grow up, Rhys brought her to her cake.



Kevin, Regan, Ryan and Noah blew the horns and twirled the clappers.



Rhys helped the infant blow out the candles.



He did the "baby toss" and . . .



Megan Grace returned to his arms, a cute toddler.



Megan looks a lot like her mama with Rhys' coloring.





Ryan and Noah played a game of chess.



Regan and Rhys sat on the sofa together.



Megan asked for Daddy's attention.


He started teaching her to walk.



"Come 'mon Megan Grace.  Walk to Daddy", said Rhys.





"Good girl!", he said, when she took a few steps on her own.



"She'll be walking all over the place before too long", said Regan.



When it started getting late, Regan said goodbye to Ryan.



She told Noah goodbye . . .



And was given a friendly hug goodbye from Kevin.



Then they all left to go home.





Rhys gave Megan Grace a bath  . . .





Then he put her in her crib and tucked her in.



"Can your daughter's mama have some attention now?", asked Regan.



Rhys turned around and gave her a makeout kiss.



"Can you spend the night?", she asked.

"Sure", he said.



Regan relaxed on her bed and asked Rhys to join.



"Your sons are goodlooking.  They remind me a lot of you", she said.

"Yeah, I can see a little bit of myself in each one of them.  I think Ryan is the most like me because he's lived with me all his life", said Rhys.

"Where is his mom?", she asked.

"Ryan's mama is my maid.  NPC's ain't allowed to have childern, so right after he was born, she left him with me to raise", he answered.

"What about the other two?", she asked.

"Kevin's mama is one of my neighbors.  He lives with her and her husband.  And Noah lives with his mama", explained Rhys.



"I hope you and Megan will have the same type relationship as you have with your sons", said Regan.

"Yeah, I hope we can, too", he said.


"That's enough talking", he said.



Then he gave her a romantic kiss.



They madeout.



"You want to do woo hoo?", he asked.

"Of course, that's why I asked you to spend the night", she said.



Woo hoo!



"I love you", she said.



"Yeah, I know you do", he answered.



They slept together the rest of the night.



They were awakened early the next morning by Megan crying.



Regan took her out of her crib.



She changed her diaper and dressed her for the day.



She put Megan down in front of her dollhouse.



While Regan was fixing breakfast Rhys came into the kitchen with Megan.



He put her in her highchair and gave her a bowl of oatmeal.





Megan ate her breakfast while . . .



Her parents ate theirs.



After breakfast Rhys read a story to Megan because it was on eof her wants.



Then he gave her a family kiss.



He kissed Regan goodbye.



Then left to go home.
To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 54



There were two babies born in Buford Falls this week.



Over at Jonathan's place . . .



Jonathan and his three sons held their breath as they watched . . .



Shannan give birth to a baby girl.



The baby has her mother's skin, eyes and blonde hair.



They named their daughter Lauren.



The next afternoon at the church parsonage . . .


Rev. Spain and his wife Gwen were cuddling on the sofa.



When she got up he asked "Where are you going sweetheat?"



"I'm not going anywhere.  The baby's coming", she said.





Then she delivered a baby boy.



"Michael, we have a son", she said, as she handed him the baby.



The baby has green eyes and blonde hair like his father.  They named their son Jacob




After he fed Jacob a bottle of milk and put him in his crib . . .



The pastor thanked God for giving them a healthy son.



Then Gwen joined her husband in prayer.


Jennifer Custer moved into this house on Crumbletop Lane a few days later.



Nick  Carras from next door came over that morning to welcome her to the neighborhood.







"Would you like to come in for a cup of coffee?  I just made a fresh pot.  I can't seem to get going in the morning until I've had my coffee", she said.



"You sound like me.  I feel the same way", said Nick, "Thanks, I'd love a cup."



Nick went into the kitchen and poured himself a cup of coffee.   Jennifer poured herself a cup and joined him.



"Where did you live before you moved here?", he asked.



"I've lived in Buford Falls all my life.  I was a Townie until recently.  When I got pregnant, as I'm sure you noticed, the baby's grandfather found me this house to live in", she said, "His son isn't going to marry me and make me a decent woman, in case you're wondering ."


"I did notice, but I wasn't going to say anything.  You seem pretty decent to me.   A wedding ring isn't going to make you a better person", he said.



"Thank you for saying that.  I think I'm better off being an unwed mother, than having to force the baby's father to marry me", she said.



"I enjoyed the coffee and your company even more", said Nick.

"I enjoyed chatting with you, too", she said.





"Bye Jennifer, I'll be seeing you again", he said, as he left to go home.



"What a nice man and he doesn't even mind me being pregnant by someone else",  Jennifer thought to herself.


On the other side of town at Claudia Alan's house . . .



Claudia called Rhys and said "I'm having a birthday party for Noah when he gets home from school this afternoon.  Can you, Ryan and Kevin come over?"



"Sure, we'll be there", said Rhys.

"Good, I'll call Nathan and invite him, too", she said.





Rhys, Kevin and Ryan soon arrived.


"I'm glad y'all could come", she said.

"I wouldn't miss my son's birthday", said Rhys.





A few minutes later Noah came home from school.



He brought Carrie Edwards home with him on the bus.



When it was time, Noah came to his cake and started growing up before he could blow out the candles.


Carrie started tickling Ryan.



He smiled that beautiful smile just for her or so she thought.





Then he playfully tickled her back.



Rhys tickled Claudia.


But instead of tickling him back, she ran to the bathroom and threw up in the toilet.




When she came out of the bathroom Rhys asked "Can me and you have a sleepover tonight?"

"Yes, you're welcome to stay", said Claudia.



Carrie . . .



Kevin . . .



And Nathan and Ryan left to go home.



"I'm going on to bed", said Noah, "I want to get down to the recruiting office early in the morning."

"So you're serious about joining the Navy?", asked Claudia.

"Yeah, that's what I want to do Mom", he said.



Noah hugged his dad goodnight.





He got into bed and was soon sound asleep.


"Are you ready to go to bed?  We ain't got to do nothing if you're too tired", said Rhys.

"It'll be alright", she said.  

"Wait for me.  I got something to do first", he said.


Rhys came out of the house and walked down the sidewalk.



Then he disappeared off the lot.



He returned a few minutes later and . . .



The Gnome appeared in front of him on the sidewalk.



When he went back into the house . . .


And joined Claudia who was relaxing on the bed.



"Noah's going to the Navy recuiting office in the morning.  He's determined that's what he wants to do", she said.

"He's an adult now.  It ain't nothing we can do to stop him", said Rhys.



"We should be proud that he wants to serve his country", said Rhys.

"Yes, I guess you're right", said Claudia.



"Is that what you wanted to talk about?", he asked.



"No, there's something else", she said.

"What is it?", he asked.


"Rhys, I'm going to have another baby", she said.



"Well, that's another thing we can't do nothing about.  It ain't something we planned on happening, but it just happens sometimes", he said.



"I thought you might be upset.  You know, me getting pregnant a second time", she said.

"You didn't get that way all by yourself.  I think I helped a little", he said.



Then he gave her a romantic kiss.



They madeout.



"You want to do woo hoo?", she asked.

"Yeah, sure", he said.


Woo Hoo!



"I love you", she said.



"Yeah, I . . . love you, too", he said.



Having finally hearing Rhys say "I love you", Claudia was happier than she'd ever been in her whole life.



He stayed with her the whole night.  That's all that mattered for now.

To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 55


Over at Buford Falls Hospital . . .



Julie Martin has come to get the results from the tests Dr. Brian did yesterday.

"Sit down Julie", the doctor said.



"Did the tests show the reason I haven't been able to get pregnant?", she asked.

"Yes, they did", he said.


"You have a condition called Polycystic ovary syndrome.  Your ovaries don't produce normal follicles in which the eggs can mature.  Without mature eggs it's impossible to get pregnant", he explained.



"Isn't there anything you can do to make my ovaries produce whatever it is the eggs need to mature?", she asked.

"I wish I could help you Julie.    I'm sorry, but there's no cure for Polycystic ovary syndrome", he said.





"What am I going to do?  We want a baby more than anything else in the world", she said.



"Perhaps you might want to consider adopting a baby.   Social Services have some infants and toddlers who need good parents", he said.



"Thank you Dr. Brian.  I'll discuss it with my husband tonight", she said.



Julie told the doctor goodbye . . .



And left to go home.


At Nick Carras' place . . .



He had the day off  and called Jennifer.

"Hello Jennifer,  can you come over for lunch?", he asked.



"Thank you, I'll be right over", she said.



When Jennifer arrived a few minutes later, Nick greeted her with a friendly hug.


"I ordered a pizza for our lunch.  I hope you're hungry", he said.

"I'm always hungry", she said.

"As well you should be.  You're eating for two", he joked.



When the pizza arrived Nick accepted the delivery.



He opened the box and took the pizza into the kitchen


"What type work do you do?", asked Jennifer.



"I'm in the Elite Forces of the Military Career.  What kind of work do you do?", he asked.



"I was a Hostess before I went on maternity leave.   I'll be able to go back after the baby's born", she said.  

After they finished eating Nick and Jennifer went into the livingroom . . .



"If you don't mind my asking, are you still dating your baby's daddy?", asked Nick.

"Not really.   I'm ashamed  to tell you about my relationship with him", she said.



"Come over here", he said.


"You don't have to talk about it if it bothers you", he said.

"I don't mind.  Maybe talking about it will help me understand why it happened", she said, "I was at the lake one afternoon when I saw this beautiful man getting out of the water.  He got in the hottub and asked me to join.  I let him kiss me and then we madeout.   I'd never done that before with anyone, but there was just something about him.   Then he had to leave, but he said he'd call me", she explained., "He didn't call me after that.  Then one day I saw him in the park and I ended up in the hottub with him,  again.  Something about him made me say yes when he asked to do woo hoo."

"His kind only wants one thing and he knows how to use his goodlooks to get it", said Nick, "It wasn't your fault that you fell for him."

"Thank you.  That makes me feel better about what happened", she said.



"I guess I'd better go.  I've taken up enough of your day off", said Jennifer.

"Nonsense,  it was much more enjoyable with you here", he said.



Then Jennifer left to go home.


At Claudia's house the next day . . .



She and Rhys were playing a game of chess while they were waiting for Noah to come back from the Navy recruiting office.



When the telephone started ringing . . .



Claudia got up and answered it.

"Hello", she said.

"Can I talk to Rhys?", asked Regan.



"Hold on, I'll get him", said Claudia.


"It's Regan", said Claudia.



"Hello", said Rhys.



"Rhys, I have a photo shoot today for a big ad campaign.  Can you come over and get Megan?", she said, "It'll only be for a couple of hours."



"Sure, I'll be there in a few minutes", he said.



"I'm going to get Megan.  Regan wants me to keep her for a couple of hours.  Can I bring her over here or would you rather I take her to my place?", he said.

"You can bring her back here.  I don't mind", said Claudia.



"I was hoping you'd say that.  I won't be gone long", he said.



Then he kissed her goodbye . . .



And left to go to Regan's place.


Rhys arrived a few minutes later.



"I'm sorry I had to call you at Claudia's.  When I called your place, Ryan said  you were there", she said.



"It's alright.  She ain't mad", he said.


"I really appreciate you coming over.  I have a photo shoot today and Megan would just be in the way", said Regan, "Wait right there and I'll go get her."



Regan returned in a few minutes carrying Megan.

"You be a good girl for your daddy", she told the toddler, giving her a kiss goodbye.


"Come 'mon, let's go bye-bye", said Rhys.

Then he left with Megan to go back to Claudia's house.

To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 56



"This is where your brother Noah and his mama Claudia lives", Rhys told Megan.



When Rhys walked in the door carrying Megan . . .



Claudia said "She's beautiful Rhys.  She looks a lot like you."



"Yeah, she does", he said.





Claudia picked up Megan and held her when she asked for attention.



Megan played with the toy ship that belonged to Noah when he was her age.



Rhys joined Megan in playing with the toy ship.



Claudia rubbed her belly while watching them play.



Regan finished the photo shoot earlier than expected, so decided to come pick up Megan from Claudia's house.



But before she went to the door, she looked all around . . .





She went over to the Gnome and picked it up . . .

And it disappeared. With both her parents being Gnomaholics, I wonder if Megan has inherited it?



Then she went up on the porch and rang the doorbell.



She watched Rhys and Megan playing with the toy ship for a few minutes . . .



Then went inside.



"I didn't know you were coming to pick up Regan here.   She'll be ready to go as soon as I change her diaper", said Claudia.

"Thank you", said Regan.



"If you had called, I would have brought her home.  It won't no need for you to come here", said Rhys.



"I finished early and thought I'd save you the trouble", said Regan.


"I'd like to start getting Megan for regular visits", said Rhys.

"We'll discuss it the next time you come over", she said.



"Here we are.  All ready to go home", said Claudia.

"Thank you so much Claudia for letting Rhys bring our daughter over here", said Regan.





"Come on baby, let's go home, she said."


A short while later Noah returned home from the recruiting office.



"Did you join the Navy?", asked Claudia.
"Yep, I have to get a haircut and pick up my uniform before I ship out next week", said Noah.
"That's awfully soon", she said.
"Don't worry Mom, there's plenty of time before I leave", he said.




Over at Julie and Nathan's house . . .



When Julie got home from the hospital she called her mom and said

"Mom, I went to see Dr. Brian and he did some tests.   I have a mediacl condition called  Polycystic ovary syndrome."

"I've never heard of that.  What is it?", said Mary Lou.



"He explained it to me.  My body doesn't produce whatever it takes to produce mature eggs.  Mom, I'm not ever going to be able to have a baby", said Julie.



"You could adopt a baby.  Why don't you discuss it with Nathan?", said Mary Lou.

"That's the same thing Dr. Brian suggested.  That seems to be the only way we'll ever going to have one", said Julie, "I hope Nathan will agree to it."


Over at Julie and Nathan's house . . .



When Nathan came home from work Julie asked him to join her on the sofa.

"I went to see Dr. Brian this morning.  The tests he did yesterday showed him why I haven't gotten pregnant", she said.



"What did he say was the problem?", asked Nathan.

"My ovaries don't produce whatever it takes to make the eggs mature.  Without mature eggs, it's no way we can have a baby.  My condition is called Polysystic Ovary Syndrome", she explained.



"Can he give you something that will cure it?", he asked.

"He said there wasn't anything he could do.  He suggested that we might want to adopt a baby", she said.



"Is that what you want to do sweetheart?", he asked.

"It's the only way we'll ever going to have a baby", she said.

"Alright, then let's do it", he said.





"Are you sure?  I don't want you to do it just for me", said Julie.

"I want a baby just as much as you do.  Social Servies can find the perfect one for us", he said.



Nathan went to the telephone and called Services and asked to adopt a baby.



The lady who answered the telephone said "You will make fine parents.

I'll come by tomorrow at 10 A.M. to drop off your baby."

"Thank you, we'll be waiting", said Nathan.



"We're going to have a baby.  The lady on the phone said we would make fine parents", he said.



"Thank you", said Julie.

To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 58

Over at Rhys Sawyer's place . . .



"I use to have a crush on Noah.  He reminded me a lot of you", she said.

"We might look a lot alike, but he ain't nothing like me", he said.



Then he gave her a romantic kiss.



He gave her a makeout kiss . . .



And she returned it with one of her own.





Ryan got up off the sofa and started down the hall.

"Where are you going?", asked Carrie.

"Follow me and you'll see", he answered.



He went into his bedrom.  He relaxed on his bed and asked Carrie to join.



"Don't this feel good?", he asked.

"Yes, but I don't think we should be doing  this", she said.



"Why not?  We're both adults", he said.



Then they madeout.



"Do you want to do woo hoo?", he asked.

"I don't think we should", she said.

"If you love me, you'll say yes", he said.



And she said YES!



"I love you Ryan", she said, "Do you love me?"



"Yeah, sure", he said.



Carrie got up out of the bed.



"Where are you going?", he asked.



"I was going home.  I thought you were asleep", she said.



"I got to get home.  My parents are going to wonder where I am", she said.



He kissed her goodbye . . .





And Carrie left to go home.



At Jennifer Custer's house on Crumbletop Lane . . .



Jennifer had started having  labor pains a short while ago.





And was nearing the end of her labor . . .





And she soon delivered a baby boy.



The baby has tan skin and brown hair like both his parents.  And he has his mama's brown eyes.

She named her son Matthew.



She fed him a bottle of milk . . .



Before putting him in his crib.



The telephone started ringing . . .

"Hello", she said.

"Are you alright?", asked Nick.

"Yes, I'm fine and so is the baby", she said.

"I'll be right over", he said.



Nick arrived a few minutes later, still wearing his work clothes.



He walked into the nursery and leaned over the crib.





He took the baby out of the crib.



He carried Matt into the kitchen and held him for Jennifer to "talk to the baby".



Then Jennifer looked lovingly at Nick.



As Nick was feeding the baby he asked "Have you called his daddy to tell him he has a beautiful son?"

"No, not yet", she said.

"I'll get out of your way, so you can call him.  I know if it was me, I'd want to know", said Nick.



He handed Jennifer the baby, so she could put him in his crib.



" You need to call Matt's daddy and invite him over to meet his son", said Nick, "I'm call you later."


After Nick left she called Ryan.

"I had the baby this morning.  It's a boy", she said, "You can come over to see him, if you want?"



"Yeah sure!"



Ryan arrived a few minutes later.

"Where's the baby?", he asked.



"He's taking a nap, but he'll be awake in a few minutes", she said



"What did you name him?"



"His name is Matthew.  Matt for short."



"Yeah, Matthew is a mouthful to say ain't it?", said Ryan.

"He's awake.  I'll go get him", she said.



Jennifer took Matthew out of his crib.



She carried him into the livingroom and handed him to Ryan.



"He's so little", said Ryan.

"Well, he's only a few hours old", she said.



"He looks a little bit like me, except he has brown eyes like you", said Ryan.





Ryan played with Matthew.





Jennifer lounged on the sofa and watched him cuddle his son.



"Jennifer, come get him.  He smells bad", said Ryan.



"Give him to me.  I'll change his diaper", she said.



She took Matt down to the nursery to change his diaper.



Ryan waited for her to finish.



He soon got tired of waiting and started down the hall.



He came into the nursery . . .

"I'm going on home", he said.



"I'll call you", he said.

"Don't bother", Jennifer thought to herself.



Then Ryan left to go home.

To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 59



In the past few days there was three birthdays celebrated in Buford Falls . . .



Over at Jonathan and Shannan Henry's place it was time for their only daughter's birthday. They celebrated with a small family birthday party.





Jonathan brought Lauren to her cake.



Everybody sang "Happy birthday to you . . ." and cheered.



Jonathan helped her blow out the candles.



Then he did "the baby toss" and . . .



Lauren grew up into a cute blonde toddler.



Across town at the church parsonage there was another birthday celebrated . . .



Rev. Spain brought his son Jacob to his cake.



He and his wife Gwen sang "Happy birthday to you and she cheered . . ."



He helped the baby blow out the candles.



The pastor did "the baby toss" and . . .





Jacob returned to his arms grown up into a cute toddler.



At Rhys' place . . .



When Regan arrived with Megan Grace, they were greeted with friendly hugs all around.





When it was time for Megan Grace Tyler to grow up, her dad (Rhys Sawyer) brought her to her cake.



Scott, Regan . . .



Ryan, Shannan, Kevin, Heather, Sean and . . .



Jonathan and Ryan Sr. clapped the clappers and blew the birthday horns..



Rhys helped her blow out the candles.



When he put her down she did "the toddler dance". . .



And her family and friends watched and cheered . . .







As Megan Grace grew up into a pretty child.



Then she grabbed a big slice of her birthday cake.

Some candid shots of the party follow:



















After the party was over family and friends left to go home . . .










Rhys and Regan were sitting in the glider . . .



When Megan Grace came over and asked "Dad, can I spend the night?"



"You said when I was older, I could.  Don't you remember?"



"Sure I remember.  You can spend next weekend!", said Rhys.



"Why not now?", she asked.



"Megan Grace, we need to go home. I have to redo your room, unless you still want to sleep in your crib", said Regan, "Now tell your dad goodbye."



"Bye Dad", said Megan Grace, giving him a friendly hug.



"I'll be over to pick you up Friday afternoon when you get home from school", said Rhys.



Then Regan and Megan Grace left to go home.



Meanwhile, across the street at Mary Lou's house . . .



Carrie was relaxing on her bed thinking about Ryan Sawyer.



All of a sudden she jumped up off the bed and ran to the bathroom . . .



And threw up in the toilet.



When she turned around, her mother was watching her.



"Mom, I can explain", said Carrie.

"Well, in that case, start explaining", said Mary Lou.

"I ate some bad food and I must have food poisoning", she lied.

"I don't believe that for a minute Carrie", said Mary Lou.



"You never believe me", said Carrie.

"If you told me the truth once in a while, I would", Mary Lou said.


"Come into the livingroom after you clean yourself up", said Mary Lou.





Mary Lou went into the livingroom and sit on the sofa beside Peter.

"Carrie was in the bathroom a few minutes ago.  She was throwing up in the toilet.  SHE says she has food poisoning', said Mary Lou.

"Don't you believe her?", he asked.



"I hope that's all it is, but I have a feeling she's pregnant",  Mary Lou said.



"Carrie doesn't even have a boyfriend.  How can she be pregnant?", said Peter.

"I don't know, but I'm going to find out in a few minutes", she said.



Carrie came into the livingroom and Mary Lou said "Carrie, do you have a boyfriend?"

"Yes", she answered.



"Did you do woo hoo with him?", asked Mary Lou.

"Yes", said Carrie.

"How could you be so stupid to let him use you like that?", Mary Lou shouted.



"He said if I loved him, I'd do woo hoo, so I did . . . twice", she said.

"Who is it?", asked Mary Lou.



"It's Ryan Sawyer and it wasn't like you think.  He loves me", said Carrie.

"Well, I'm going to see how much he loves you", she said.



Then Mary Lou headed across the street to Rhys Sawyer's place.



She was so mad, she walked into the house without even knocking.



To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 60



Over at Rhys' place . . .



Mary Lou had come over to demand that Ryan do the right thing by her daughter . . .

"I just found out Carrie is pregnant and she said you're the father!", said Mary Lou.



"She ain't said nothing to me about it.  I'll give her money to buy what she needs for the baby and I'll support it", said Ryan.



"We don't need your money.  Carrie needs a wedding ring on her finger before she starts showing.  I refuse to have people gossip about my daughter", said Mary Lou.



"I ain't getting married!", said Ryan.



"You do realize Carrie is a lot younger than you, don't you?", she asked.



"I didn't force her to do woo hoo.  I asked her and she said yes", he said.



Mary Lou decided to try to reason with Rhys.
"Rhys, you have two daughters.  What would you do if one of them were in Carrie's situation?", asked Mary Lou.



"I reckon I'd feel the same way you do", said Rhys, "Let me talk to my son."



"Son, you're going to have to marry Carrie", said Rhys.



"I don't want to get married!", shouted Ryan.



"You should have thought of that before you done woo hoo with a minor!", shouted Rhys.



"You ain't married none of the women who had your babies", said Ryan.

"That's because all the women I had babies with were over twenty-one", said Rhys.



"Now go tell Mary Lou you'll going to marry Carrie and try to be a good husband to her", said Rhys, giving Ryan a hug.



"Mrs. Edwards, I'm going to ask Carrie to marry me.  I promise I'll try to be a good husband to her", said Ryan.

"If you mean it, call her and invite her over, so you can ask her", she said.



"Carrie, can you come over?", he asked.

"Sure, I'll be right there", she said.



Carrie arrived a few minutes later . . .



And Ryan went to greet her.



"There's something I want to ask you", he said.

"What is it?", she asked.



He got down on one knee and held up a diamond ring . . .

"Carrie will you be engaged to me?", he asked.


She admired the ring . . ..



Then she jumped into his arms and said "YES!"



"I'm so surprised.  I never in a million years expected a proposal", she said.



Then he gave her a romantic kiss.



Mary Lou went over to Ryan and said "Well, now that you're engaged, are you ready to take the next step?"



"Yeah sure, we may as well get it over with", he answered.

"Good, I'll call Peter.  We can start the ceremony when he gets here", she said.



When Peter arrived he took his place beside Mary Lou on the sofa.



The wedding ceremony began when Ryan proposed marriage to Carrie.



He held up a gold wedding band . . .



And placed it on her finger and  said "I take you Carrie to be my lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward."



Carrie held up a matching gold band and . . .



And placed it on Ryan's finger and said "I take you Ryan to be my lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day foward."  The glowing wedding bands appeared over her head.



Ryan and Carrie became husband and wife.


Ryan gave his bride a romantic kiss.





The glowing red wedding bands appeared over Ryan's  head a few minutes later when he was rubbing Carrie's belly.



Peter proposed a toast to the newlyweds.



Ryan and Carrie joined in . . .



Rhys proposed a toast to the newlyweds.



Carrie and Ryan . . .



And Mary Lou and Peter joined in the toast.



Ryan proposed a toast to his bride . . .

"To my beautiful wife and the mother of my child", he said.


Then Ryan gave Carrie a romantic kiss.



Assured that their daughter was happy, the bride's parents left to go home.



Rhys called Claudia . . .

"Do you feel like having a sleepover tonight?", he asked.

"Yeah sure, come on over", she said.



"I'm going over to Claudia's house.  I'll be back sometime tomorrow", said Rhys.



Then he left to go to Claudia's house.



"You ready for bed Mrs. Carlson?", asked Ryan.

"Yes", answered Carrie.





Ryan relaxed on the bed and asked Carrie to join.



They cuddled.



He gave her a romantic kiss.



"You want to do woo hoo?", asked Ryan.



And Carrie said YES!



"I can hardly believe we can do that anytime we want now", she said.



"Yeah, being married does have it's advantages", said Ryan.



To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 61



Over at Regan's place . . .



Rhys arrived to pick up Megan Grace for the weekend.



She greeted him with a friendly hug.



"I'll bring her home Sunday afternoon", he told Regan.

"Alright", she said.





Then Rhys and Megan Grace left to go to Claudia's house to attend Hannah's birthday party.





They soon arrived at Claudia's house and walked into the livingroom.



Claudia handed Hannah to Rhys and said "Here's the birthday girl".



Rhys snuggled on the sofa with Megan Grace while Claudia gave Hannah a bottle of milk.



When it was time, Claudia brought Hannah to her birthday cake.

She helped her blow out the candles . . .



And did the "baby toss".





Hannah returned to her arms, grown up into a cute toddler.



Rhys held Hannah and talked to the toddler.



He gave her a hug.







Then he sit on the sofa and snuggled with Megan Grace.





Hannah asked for her daddy's attention.



Megan Grace also wanted attention so Rhys played Red Hands with her. . .



And she won!



Then Megan Grace played with Hannah.



Hannah gave Megan Grace a "family kiss".



When it was time for bed Megan Grace slept in Noah's old bedroom.



Hannah went to sleep in her crib.



Rhys relaxed on Claudia's bed and asked her to join.



"You were right, Hannah and Megan Grace have become best friends", he said.

"Yes, with so many brothers, it's nice that they have each other", she said.



"I love you for being so understanding about this whole thing with my kids", he said.

"I love everything about you Rhys.   I love your childern.  They're a part of you", she said.



Then Rhys gave her a romantic kiss.



They made out.



"You want to do woo hoo?", he asked.



And Claudia said yes!

"I love you Rhys", she said.



"I love you, too", he said.



The next morning when Hannah woke up Rhys took her out of her crib.





He changed her diaper and dressed her in an everyday outfit.











After breakfast Rhys and Claudia took the girls outside to play.







Rhys taught Hannah to walk.





Rhys ordered a pizza to be delivered for their dinner.







"I reckon I better be getting you home", said Rhys.

"Can't we stay a little bit longer?",  asked Megan Grace.

"No, your mama will start to worry if I ain't got you back on time", he said.



Megan Grace hugged Claudia goodbye.



Then left with Rhys to go home.

To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 62



Over at Jennifer Custer's place . . .



She called Nick Carras . . .

"Hello Nick, today is Matt's birthday.  Would you like to come over?", she asked.

"Great, I'll be there in a few minutes", he said.



"You can do the honors if you want", she said.

"Thanks, I'll be glad to", he said.



Nick went into the nursery and took Matt out of his crib.



He brought Matthew to his birthday cake.



He helped the infant blow out the candles.



Jennifer watched and thought what a good daddy Nick would be.



Nick did the "baby toss" . . .







And Matthew returned to his arms a cute toddler.



Jennifer and Nick cuddled on the sofa . . .



While Matthew played with the shape sorter.



"You need to call Matt's daddy and tell him his son grew up into a toddler", said Nick.

"Yeah, I know.  He's only come over that one time to see him.  I don't think there's any hurry", she said.





Jennifer took the baby to the nursery to change his diaper and dress him for bed.



She put him in his crib.



When Jennifer came out of the nursery, Nick met her in the hall . . .



And gave her a romantic kiss.



He picked her up in his strong arms . . .



And layed her on the bed and they made out.



He gave her a romantic kiss.



"Do you want to do woo hoo?", he asked.



And Jennifer said YES!



"That was wonderful", he said.



"Yes it was", she agreed.



"I love you", said Nick.

"I love you, too", she said.



Over at Regan's place . . .





Rhys has arrived with Megan Grace



Regan greeted Megan Grace with a hug.



"Did you have a good time at Claudia's house?", asked Regan.

"Yes, we had a birthday party for Hannah Saturday.  Today we played outside and Dad ordered a pizza for lunch", said Megan Grace.


"You had a good time.  That's the important thing", said Regan, giving her a hug.







Megan Grace and Rhys played a game of chess while Regan watched.




When Megan Grace started getting tired, Regan told her it was time for bed.



She hugged Regan goodnight.



She gave Rhys a goodnight hug.



Then got into bed and slept in her pajamas.



"Would you like to spend the night?", asked Regan.



"I'd really like to, but I guess I'll go on home", said Rhys.



"You don't have anyone waiting at home for you, do you?", she asked.

"No", he said.

"Well, then there's no reason you can't stay here with me", she said.



Rhys gave her a romantic kiss.



"Rhys, do you want to do woo hoo?", asked Regan.



"Yeah sure", he said.



Woo hoo!



"I love you Rhys", she said.



"Yeah, I know you do", said Rhys.



Then Regan went to sleep in Rhys arms.  She knew he would never be hers, but a girl could dream, couldn't she?



The next day at Rhys' place . . .



Ryan's wife Carrie has started into labor.



Rhys was more affected by her pain . . .



Than Ryan who stayed calm through the whole delivery.



When the pains susided . . .  



Carrie delivered a beautiful baby boy.



She handed the baby to Ryan . . .



And continued with her labor.



Then she delivered a second baby boy.


They named their first born son Joseph.  Joey has tan skin, brown hair and grey eyes like his daddy.



They named their second born son Jeffery.  He's identical to his twin brother.

Ryan held up Joey so Rhys could "talk to the baby".



Then he handed the baby to Rhys.





The maid Jasmyn Carlson who is Ryan's mama arrived for work.



Rhys held Joey so Jasmyn could "talk to the baby".



Carrie called her parents and invited them over to meet their grandsons.



Mary Lou and Peter soon arrived.





Jasmyn held Jeffery so Mary Lou could talk to her grandson.



Carrie held up Joey so Peter could talk to his grandson.





Carrie hugged her parents goodbye.



Then Mary Lou and Peter left to go home.



"It ain't gonna be enough room here for all of us.  You and Carrie need your own place", said Rhys.



"You know I ain't got enough money to buy a house", said Ryan.



"I've already bought one for you.  I was saving it as a surprise", said Rhys.



"Thank you Daddy", said Ryan.





He picked up the telephone and called a taxicab.



Then Ryan and Carrie left with the twins to find their own place. . .





"Well, we're back to where we started", said Rhys.
"Not exactly.  We have a son and two grandsons now", said Jasmyn.
"You'll always be special to me.  When you gave birth to Ryan and let me have him to raise , you changed my life for the better ", he said.
"I was surprised that I could even have a child, but I'm glad it was with you", she said.

To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 63


Over at Jennifer Custer's house . . .

Nick was telling Jennifer goodbye before he left to go home.

He suddenly dropped to one knee and held up a diamond ring.
"Will you be engaged to me?', he asked.

He waited for her answer while she admired the ring.



Then she jumped into his arma and said "YES!"

"I didn't expect you to propose", she said excitedly, "You've made me so happy!"

"I'm ready to get married whenever you want", she said.
"The sooner the better", he said.
"I want to invite my parents and my brother", said Nick.
"Do they live here in town?", asked Jennifer.
"Yeah, Mom and Dad live over on Elm Street and Tony has an apartment on Main Street", said Nick.
"I'd love to have them come", she said.
"Good, let's have the wedding next Saturday", he said.
"That sounds good to me", she said.", he said.

Nick kissed her goodbye.

Then left to go home.


The next morning Jennifer received a call from Ryan.
"Can I come over to visit my son", he asked.
"Yeah, that'll be okay.  Matthew and I will be out on the backporch", she said.
"Thanks, I'll be there in a few minutes", he said.

Ryan arrived a short time later.


Ryan talked to Matthew.

He picked up the toddler . . .

And gave him a hug.

Then they played together with the toy lighthouse while Jennifer watched.

"Come sit down in the glider", she said, "I have something to tell you."

"I'm getting married next Saturday", she said.
"I'm happy for you", he said.

"Are you happy Ryan?", she asked.
"Not really.  You know I got married, right?", he asked.
"Yeah, I heard". she said.
"Well, I was forced into it because she was pregnant.   A wedding ring was the only thing her family would accept", said Ryan.

"How are the babies doing?  I heard y'all had twin boys", she asked.

"Joseph and Jeffery are doing great.  I love them and I'm trying to make a go of it for their sakes, but I don't know for how long I'm going to be able to make it", he said, "I reckon it's what I deserve after the way I treated you."
"I don't have any hard feelings toward you Ryan.  If things between  us hadn't happened the way it did, I wouldn't be fre to marry Nick and I wouldn't have Matthew", she said.
"Thanks for telling me.  It helps."

"Bye Jennifer", said Ryan.

"Bye son", he said.
"Bye bye", said Matthew.

To be continued . . .

Picket Fences! Part 64


The wedding of Jennifer Custer and Nicholas Carras took place Saturday afternoon . . .


At Buford Falls Church.

The groom's parents Marco and Gina Carras.

Gwen Spain and her son Jacob were in attendance.

The groom and his best man (his brother Tony Carras) stood at the alter awaiting the bride.


Bridesmaid Marisa Bendett, the bride's best friend entered the church.

The bride entered the church . . .

And joined her groom under the pink flowered wedding arch.

"No ceremony can create a marriage. What a ceremony can do is whitness and affirm the choice to stand together as life mates and partners. "

"So I ask now, Nick, do you take this woman to be your wedded wife?",
said Rev. Michael Spain, minister of the church.


" I do", Nick said.

"Jennifer, do you take this man to be your wedded husband?", he asked.
"I do", she said.

Nick held up a plain gold wedding band . . .

As he placed it on Jennifer's finger he said "I give you this ring, as a daily reminder of my love and lifelong commitment to you."

Jennifer placed a matching gold wedding band on Nick's finger and said "I give you this ring, as a daily reminder of my love and lifelong commitment to you."


"It is with great honor and by the power of your love and commitment and by the power invested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife", said the pastor, "Nick, you may kiss your bride.".

Then Nick gave Jennifer a romantic kiss.

"I now present to you Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Carras", Rev. Woods announced.

Jennifer cut the wedding cake and fed the first slice to Nick with a fork.



Nick's father proposed a toast to the newlyweds. Nick and Jennifer and Gwen joined in.

Nick's brother Tony proposed a toast to the newlyweds.

Jennifer, Nick and Marisa joined in.

The following pictures are andid shots from the wedding:










Gwen offered to watch Matthew so that the newylweds could be alone on their honeymoon.



To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 65

You are invited to the wedding of  Heather MacAlister and Kevin Anderson !


Over at Buford Falls Church the wedding ceremony is about to begin.

"Welcome family, friends and loved ones.  We are gathered here today to celebrate the wedding of  Heather MacAlister and Kevin Anderson!", said Rev. Michael Spain.

Rhys Sawyer (father of the groom) was seated with Claudia Alan.

Grandfather of the groom Ryan Sawyer came.

Gwen Spain and her son Jacob were in attendance


Nancy Martin was escorted by Nathan Henry.

The groom's parents Joy and Larry Anderson were seated together.

The groom's nephew David Martin was seated next to the groom's sister Megan Grace Tyler.

The groom's sister Arlene was seated with her husband Jimmy Martin.

MaryLou and Peter Edwards had been invited.

Jonathan and Shannan Henry were sitting together.


Kevin stood at the alter with his brother Rhys Carlson who served as best man.

The bride's best friend and bride's maid Mary Ashley entered the church.  She was dressed in a floor-length dress of blue chiffon . . .

Followed by the bride.  Heather looked beautiful in a floor-length dress of white lace with a waltz-length veil . . .

And joined her groom under the white flowered wedding arch.


Then the pastor began the ceremony . . .
"Kevin and Heather, you have come here today to enter into a bond of marriage.  I ask that you remember, as with any aspect of life, marriage is a journey, it has its ups and downs, its trials and its triumphs.  You will not only be joined by the love you share, but also by your hopes, your dreams and by your promise to remain together through time as husband and wife", said the pastor.

"Kevin, do you promise to love, honor, cherish and respect Heather, to encourage her and stand by her for the rest of your life, and be her best friend forever and from this day forward, your heart will be her home? ", he asked.
"I do", said Kevin.

"Heather, do you promise to love honor, cherish and respect Kevin, to encourage him and stand by him for the rest of your life, and be his best friend forever and from this day forward, your heart will be his home??", the pastor asked.
"I do", said Heather.


Heather held up a plain gold wedding band.  As she placed it on Kevin's finger, she said "With this ring I promise you my honesty, my trust and my love forever."

Kevin held up a matching wedding band . . .

And as he placed it on Heather's finger he said "With this ring I promise you my honesty, my trust and my love forever."
 
'You have made your vows and promises to each other.  From this moment forth, always look to your fortune and remember what you can create together.  Remember, that at last, your lonely days are over.  By the power of your love and the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife", he said.


"Kevin, you may kiss your bride!"


Then Kevin cut the first slice of wedding cake . . .

And fed it to Heather with a fork.

Larry proposed a toast to the newlyweds.

Jonathan, Mary Lou and Peter . . .

Ryan and Mary . . .

Nathan and Nancy . . .

And Claudia and Rhys joined in the toast.


Kevin gave his bride a romantic kiss.

[b]The following are candid shots from the wedding:










When the taxicab arrived . . .


The newlyweds left the church.



They got in the taxicab and left for their honeymoon.



To be continued . . . [/b]

A Review Of Picket Fences!

When the story began,  Buford Falls was just like any other small town in the South in the late 1940's.  The houses were nice, but not by any means the most expensive.   There was five houses on Shadetree Lane.  `  

Back then Larry and Joy Anderson lived in the white house with the green picket fence.  They  dated all through high school and got married right after graduation.  The couple had one daughter (Arlene).

This is Larry and Joy now.  They also have a son (Kevin) who Joy had from an affair with a neighbor.(Rhys Sawyer)  
They've "weathered the storm" together and are still happily married.


Arlene is married to Jimmy Martin and they have a teenage son named David.  Arlene is pregnant with their second child.

Kevin recently married his high school sweetheart Heather MacAlister and they're expecting their first child.

Mary Lou and Tim Edwards lived in the brick house with the white picket fence.  They were high school sweethearts and got married right after graduation.  They had one daughter (Julie) back then.  

This is Mary Lou and Tim now.  They have a second daughter (Carrie).


Julie is married to Nathan Martin.  They have one daughter (Amanda) who they adopted when she was a toddler.  They're planning to adopt a little brother or sister for Amanda.

Carrie is married to Ryan Carlson.  Mary Lou forced Ryan to marry Carrie when she became pregnant with their identical twin sons (Joseph and Jeffery).

Sam and Emily Martin lived in the white house with  the white picket fence.  They had a son (Jimmy) and Emily soon had boy/girl twins (Nathan and Nancy).  

Now elders Sam and Emily are still happily married.


Nancy Martin is single and lives in her own apartment on Main Street.


Ben and Betty Jones lived in the brown shingled house with the brown picket fence.  They had two childern (Mike and Judy) back then.  The family moved away a few years ago.  

The fifth house stood enpty for over a year after elderly Grace Sawyer died.  Her grandson Rhys Sawyer inherited everything she owned and soon moved into the white house with the white picket fence.  Rhys was a confirmed bachelor back then.


Rhys remains a confirmed bachelor although he has fathered three sons and two daughters by three different women in Buford Falls.  His oldest son Ryan's mother is NPC maid Jasmyn Carlson who remains Rhys' maid, best friend and occassional lover.
The mother of his second son Kevin is Joy Anderson.  After reaching an understanding with Joy's husband when Kevin was a child, he  remains friends socially with them both.

Rhys' youngest son (Noah Alan) is in the Navy.  Noah's mother is Claudia Alan.

Regan Tyler is the mother of his oldest daughter (Megan Grace).  Regan and Rhys are best friends and occassional lovers.  

Claudia Alan is also the mother of Rhys' youngest daughter Hannah.   She and Rhys are best friends and lovers.  Claudia is the only woman he has ever told "I love you".

Rhys' best friend Jonathan Henry moved to Buford Falls a few years after Rhys.  Jonathan is married to Claudia's cousin Shannan.  The couple have four childern.  The oldest son is Jonathan's son by an old lover and Scott, Sean and Lauren are their childern together.

When Ryan Sawyer came to Buford Falls, he surprised Rhys when he confessed to be his father, who was believed to be dead.  Ryan is the love-child of the late Rev. Joseph Woods and Grace Sawyer. He has become known as Ryan Sr. by family and friends.  He has a good relationship with his son, grandchildern and great-grandchildern.

Rick and Jennifer recently got married.  Jennifer has a toddler son (Matthew) with a former lover (Ryan Carlson).   The couple are looking forward to the birth of a little brother or sister for Matthew.


Mary Ashley  was Ryan Carlson's long-time girlfriend.  When she broke up with him he began an affair with Carrie and eventually married her.  Now that her best friend and roommate Heather MacAlister got married, Mary  dreams of finding her own "Mr. Right".

Nick Carras' younger brother Tony recently grew up into an adult and moved into his own apartment on Main Street.  Tony hopes to have a career as a Professional Party Guest.

Buford Falls Church has a new preacher.  Rev. Lucas Brown  has replaced Rev. Spain who has returned to a church in his hometown of Veronaville.

Picket Fences!  Part 67


Over at Claudia's house . . .

Noah returned home from his time in the Navy.

"Mama I want you to meet my wife Miyuki", said Noah.
"Your wife?", asked Claudia.
"Yes, Miyuki and I got married this morning just before I shipped out", he said.


"Hello Miyuki.  This is a surprise I wasn't expecting", said Claudia, "Welcome to my home", saod Claudia.

"Thank you Noah's mother.  I'm happy to meet you", said Miyuki.

"Please call me Claudia", she said.

"I'm going to meet your daddy in a few minutes at Ryan's house.   Today is the twins' first birthday.
"That's great!  Miyuki can meet the whole family", said Noah.


As soon as Claudia changed clothes and dressed Hannah, they left to go to Ryan's house.

They soon arrived at Ryan's house . . .

They walked in the door.

Rhys greeted Noah with a hug.


"Dad, I want you to meet my wife Miyuki", he said.

"I'm happy to meet you Noah's father", she said.
"My name is Rhys.  That's what you can call me", he said.

Rhys picked up Hannah and held her.

When it was time for the twins to grow up, Ryan brought Joseph to his birthday cake.  He helped the infant blow out the candles.

The guests blew the birthday horns and clapped the clappers.

Ryan did the "baby toss".

Joseph returned to his arms, grown into a cute toddler.

Then Carrie brought Jeffery to his birthday cake.  She helped him blow out the candles.

The guests blew the horns and clapped the clappers.

She did the "baby toss".

Jeffery returned to her arms, grown up into a cute toddler.

The twins are identical and look a lot like their grandaddy Rhys.

Following is some candid shots from the birthday party:

Lauren Henry, Amanda Martin and Megan Grace Tyler


Jeffery and Joseph  with their half-brother Matthew Custer

Amanda, Megan Grace, Hannah and Lauren

Miyuki and Ryan Sr.



Claudia and Rhys

Mary Lou and Peter Edwards (Carrie's parents)

Rhys with Joseph


Across town at Jennifer and Nick's house . . .  

It's nearing the end of Jennifer's pregnancy.

Nick rubbed her swollen belly.

"What time is Ryan suppose to bring Matthew home?", asked Nick.
"He said he would bring him right after the party ends",  she said.

Nick gave her a romantic kiss.


"Nick, it's time!", cried Jennifer.

And no sooner than she got the words out of her mouth, she delivered a beautiful baby girl.


The baby has black hair and brown eyes like both her parents. They named their daughter Elizabeth.

She handed Elizabeth to Nick . . .

About the time Ryan brought Matthew home from the twins' birthday party.



Matthew came into the house followed by Ryan.

"Did you have a good time at your brothers' birthday party?", she asked.
"Yes, Mama", said Matthew.

"Did your boys grow up well?", she asked.
"Yeah, they did.  Thanks for asking", said Ryan.


Ryan said goodbye to Matthew and gave him a friendly hug . . .


Then he left to go home.

At Regan's house . . .

Rhys brought Megan Grace home after the birthday party.  She hugged him goodnight.

She hugged her mama goodnight.

Before she crawled into bed.

Can you spend the night?", Regan asked.


"No, I promised Claudia I'd come to her house tonight", he said.

"Please, can't you stay?", she pleaded.

"No, I already told you!  I'm going to Claudia's", he said.

"Goodbye Regan", said Rhys, "I'll pick Megan Grace up tomorrow."

Then he left to go to Claudia's house.



When Rhys arrived at Claudia's house, she greeted him with a romantic hug.
"I'm surprised you came back so early", she said.
"Why? I promised you I would". he said.

"Didn't Regan ask you to spend the night?", she asked.
"Yeah, but Claudia, you're the one I want to be with.  I love you", said Rhys.
"I love you, too", she said.
To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 68


Over at Rhys' place . . .


His family and close friends gathered to celebrate Rhys' birthday.

Rhys came to his birthday cake.

He made a wish and blew out the candles.



Everyone blew the birthday horns and clapped the clappers.



Then in a flash of light he started to grow up.

Rhys grew up into a goodlooking elder.


Then he grabbed a big slice of cake and sit down and enjoyed it.


"Happy birthday Daddy!", said Megan Grace.

She gave him a friendly hug.

"Happy birthday sweetheart", said Claudia.

Then Claudia gave him a romantic kiss.

"Come 'mon Dad", said Rhys.

And he and his dad played Punch U-Punch Me.


When Regan came to pickup Megan Grace, she said, " Happy birthday sexty.  You're stil as handsome as ever."
"Um, thank you", said Rhys.

Then Megan Grace left to go home with her mama.  

"You know something, she's right.  You do look sexty with that grey hair", said Claudia.

Rhys gave her a romantic kiss.

After all the other guests left, Rhys said "Do you want to spend the night?"
"Yes", she answered.


After Claudia changed Hannah and dressed her for bed, Rhys put her in the crib.

They went into the bedroom and sit on the loveseat . . .
"Are you okay with this getting older thing?", she asked.
"I don't know.  Do I have a choice?", he said.

"Not really.  It's just that some people accept aging better than others", she answered.


"Besides having grey hair and a few new wrinkles, I don't feel no older", said Rhys.

"You look wonderful . . .

"For an old man", she joked.


"Come relax on the bed with me and I'll show you how old I am", he said.

"Okay, follow me", she said.


They relaxed on the bed.  He gave her a kiss.

They madeout.

"You want to do woo hoo?", he asked.

Claudia said YES!


"How was it?", he asked.
"Just as wonderful as ever", she answered.

They got out of bed and Rhys asked . . .
"Remember when I told you if I ever decided to settle down that you would be the first to know?"
"Yes, I remember", she said.

Then Rhys got down on one knee and held up a ring . . .
"Claudia will you marry me?"

"I'm so surprised!"

"It's beautiful."


"Yes!", I'll marry you!"


To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 69


At Julie and Nathan Martin's house . . .

When their daughter Amanda got home from her twin cousins Joseph and Jeffery's birthday party, she asked if she could have a baby brother or sister.

After digusting the matter, they agreed to adopt a second child.

Nathan called Social Services to adopt a toddler.  Since they had already proven to be excellant parents, they were approved.


Amanda thanked Nathan for calling Social Services.



Then she hugged both her parents goodnight . . .


And got into bed.

The next morning Nathan left for work . . .

And Amanda left to go to school.

Julie read a book while she waited for the Social worker to come.

At 10 A.M. the Social worker's van stopped across the street.


The Social worker opened the door to the van.

She lifted a male toddler out of the van.

The toddler in her arms had black hair and blue eyes.

"This is your new son Corey", she said.


Julie picked up Corey.  It was love at first sight.


She carried him into the house. . .

And fed him lunch.

They played with the block sorter.

When Amanda came home from school, she and Corey played with the service station.


When Nathan came home, he was thrilled to have a son.

Next door at Arlene and Jimmy Martin's house . .




Arlene, Jimmy and their son David were in the kitchen when Arlene started having labor pains . . .

And delivered a beautiful baby girl.

They named their daughter Joyce, which was Arlene's late grandmother's name.

Over at Claudia's house . . .

With Claudia and Hannah staying at Rhys' place, Noah and Miyuki are enjoying having the house to themselves.

They cuddled on the bed in Noah's room.


"You want to do woo hoo?", he asked,

And Miyuki said YES!

"I love you my husband", she said.

"I love you, too", he said.

Noah and Miyuki are expecting a baby. . .

And they couldn't be happier.


At Rhys' place . . .

Close friends and family have come to help celebrate Hannah's birthday.

Rhys brought Hannah to her birthday cake.

He helped her blow out the candles.

Everybody blew the birthday horns and clapped the clappers.

He placed her on the floor.  She did the "toddler dance" and . . .

Grew up into a cute child.



She grabbed a big slice of her birthday cake.

"Happy birthday Hannah", said Megan Grace.

Then the sisters hugged each other.

"Call your mom and ask her if you can spend the night", said Hannah.

"Mom, can I spend the night at dad's place?", asked Megan Grace.

"Sure,  I'll see you tomorrow", said Regan.

"Alright, bye Mom."

After Megan Grace finished talking to Regan . . .


Rhys called Transpotation and ordered a taxi.


The taxiab stopped in front of the house.


Hannah and Megan Grace got in

Rhys told the driver to take them to the Pizza Parlour downtown.

The taxi stopped in front and . . .


They all got out and went into the pizza parlour.


Hannah ahd Megan Grace grabbed a slice of pizza.

"I can hardly wait until Monday.  I think it will be fun to ride the bus to school"< said Hannah.

"Yeah, it is.  I love going to school", said Megan Grace.

"Maybe you and Hannah will be able to play together at recess", said Claudia.

"Some of my best memories are when I was going to school", said Rhys.


When they finished eating Rhys called a taxi to go home.

"I wish the taxi would hurry up and come.  I'm sleepy", said Hannah.


The taxi arrived shortly and took them home.

"I wish I could live here with you all the time", said Megan Grace, "It's a lot more fun."
"You can visit as often as you want sweeetheart.  Your mama would misss you terribly if you lived with me", said Rhys.
"Yeah, I'd miss her, too", she said.

"My birthday was fun today", said Hannah.
"I'm glad you had a good time", said Rhys.

"Goodnight Dad!", both girls called as they went off to bed.


"Goodnight Hannah!"

"Goodnight Megan Grace!"

"The girls are settled for the night", said Claudia.
"Then come here", said Rhys.


To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 70


At Kevin and Heather Anderson's house . . .

It's almost time for Heather to give birth to their first baby.  As most all expectant fathers do, Kevin was rubbing his wife's swollen belly and talking to the baby.

"How much longer do we have to wait before it's born?", he asked.

"We don't have to wait much longer!", she answered.


With the last few labor pains, Heather delivered a beautiful baby boy.

The baby has tan skin, brown hair and gray eyes like Kevin.  They named their son Jason.


"I'll give him a bottle and put him in his crib while you call your parents", said Heather.

"Hello Rhys, you have another grandson."

"That's great! I'll be right over.  Is it alright if I bring a friend?", he asked.
"Sure", said Kevin.
"Alright, we'll be there in a few minutes", said Rhys.

Kevin called his parents and Larry answered the phone . . .
"Daddy, you have a grandson!", said Kevin.

"That's wonderful", he said, "I'll tell your mama the good news."
Then Heather called her best friend Mary . . .
"I have a son.  I can't wait for you to see him", she asked.

"I'd love to see the baby.  I'll be right over.  Can I bring a friend?"
"Yes, of course", said Heather.
"We'll be there in a few minutes", she said.


A few minutes later, Rhys arrived with Claudia and Hannah.

Kevin handed the baby to Rhys.

Hannah "talked to the baby".


Mary came into the house followed by her boyfriend Tony Carras.

Kevin greeted Tony.

Heather handed Jason to Mary.


Mary cuddled the baby.


She held him so Tony could "talk to the baby".




It started getting late . . .


So Heather gave Jason a bottle and put him in his crib.


"Daddy, can we go home?", asked Hannah.
"Sure sweetheart, as soon as we tell everybody goodbye", said Rhys.

When Rhys, Claudia and Hannah arrived home . . .

Hannah cuddled on the sofa with her daddy for a few minutes . . .

Then she said goodnight and went to bed.

"You know something?", asked Claudia.
"What?", he asked.

Then Claudia sang a love song to the man she's loved for most of her adult life.

To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 71



You are invited to the wedding of Claudia Alan and Rhys Sawyer!



Over at Buford Falls Church . . .


Rev. Lucas Brown, new paster of the church, was starting the wedding ceremony . . .

"Family and friends, we welcome you today to witness the marriage of  Rhys  and Claudia.  You have shared and contributed to their lives in the past, and by witnessing their marriage ceremony today,  they ask you to share in their future."



Father of the groom, Ryan Sawyer, Sr. was seated on the front pew.



Rhys and Claudia's daughter Hannah was sitting with Rhys' daughter Megan Grace.



Rhys' son Ryan Carlson and his wife Carrie were seated together.



Rhys' son Kevin Anderson was seated with his wife Heather.



Rhys and Claudia's son Noah was accompied by his wife Miyuki.



Friends and neighbors of the bride and groom, Peter and MaryLou Edwards were seated together.



Larry and Joy Anderson, friends and neighbors of the bride and groom were seated together.



Mary Ashley, a friend of both the bride and groom, was seated with her boyfriend Tony Carras.



Jonathan Henry, the best man stood at the alter awaiting the bride and wondering why the groom hadn't arrived.  He hoped Rhys hadn't changed his mind and decided not to show up.




Maid of Honor Shannan Henry, cousin of the bride, entered the church.  
She was wearing a floor length purple gown with appliqued bodice.



As she walked toward the alter,  she was puzzled to see Jonathan standing at the alter alone.




Shannan was followed by the bride, who was wearing a floor length white gown with lace overlay.  Claudia made her way down the aisle to join
her groom under the wedding arch . . .



But when she didn't see Rhys, she was afraid he had changed his mind.



"Do you know what happened to Rhys?", asked Claudia.
"He told Jonathan this morning that he'd see him at the church", said Shannan, "I don't why he isn't here."



"Excuse me, but where's the groom?", asked Rev. Brian.
"I talked to him this morning and he said he'd see me here", said Jonathan.  
"As far as I know, he intended to be here", said Claudia.

To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 72



While everyone at the church was wondering why Rhys didn't show up for the wedding . . .



Over at his place earlier that day . . .




Rhys was gussing up before he left to go to the church.



He was walking down the hall . . .



And accidently tripped over the chair that was in front of the desk.



He broke his ankle and fell to the floor.



He crawled over to the phone and called emergency.



The ambulance came right away . .




And rushed Rhys to the doctor.



Dr. Brian bandaged his ankle and told Rhys' to stay off it.
"I can't stay off it!  I'm already late for my wedding!", he said.



Then Rhys called a taxi to take him to the church.




When the taxi arrived, Nurse Jane helped Rhys get in . . .



And he was on his way to the church.




When the taxi pulled up in front of the church . . .



Rhys got out of the taxi . . .



And entered the church . . . better late than never!



When Claudia saw Rhys she ran up to him and gave him a squeeze.



"I was so worried about you. Oh, your face is hurt", she said, "How did you break your ankle?", she asked.

"I fell over a chair at home.  I guess I'm getting pretty clumsy in my old age", he said.



"Don't be silly.  You're not old", she said.



"Are you ready to become my wife?", asked Rhys.
"Yes, I've been waiting a long time to fill that position", she answered.



"Alright, let's do it!", he said.



The bride and groom stood under the wedding arch.  



Rev. Brown began the ceremony . . .
"Rhys and Claudia, you have come here today to enter into a bond of marriage.  I ask that you remember, as with any aspect of life, marriage is a journey, it has its ups and downs, its trials and its triumphs.  You will not only be joined by the love you share, but also by your hopes, your dreams and by your promise to remain together through time as husband and wife", said the pastor.



"I Claudia, take you Rhys, the father of my childern, to be my husband, my partner in life and my one true love.  I will cherish our union and love you more each day than I did the day before.  I will trust you and respect you, laugh with you and cry with you, loving you faithfully through good times and bad, regardless of the obstacles we may face together.  I give you my hand, my heart, and my love, from this day forward for as long as we both shall live. "



"I, Rhys, take you, Claudia, the mother of two of my childern, to be my  lawfully wedded wife, my constant friend, my faithful partner and my love from this day forward.  In the presence of God, our family and friends, I offer you my solemn vow to be your faithful partner in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, and in joy as well as in sorrow.  I promise to love you unconditionally, to support you in your goals, to honor and respect you, to laugh with you and cry with you, and to cherish you for as long as we both shall live."




Rhys held up a gold wedding band and as he placed it on Claudia's  finger he said . . ."I give you this ring to wear with love and joy. As a ring has no end, neither shall my love for you. I choose you to be my wife this day and forevermore."
"I will forever wear this ring as a sign of my commitment and the desire of my heart", said Claudia.




Claudia held up a matching gold wedding band.  As she placed it on Rhys' finger she said  . . .
"I give this ring as my gift to you.  Wear it and think of me and know that I love you."
"I will wear it gladly. Whenever I look at it, I will remember this day and the vows we've made", said Rhys.

'You have made your vows and promises to each other.  From this moment forth, always look to your forture and remember what you can create together.  By the power of your love and the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife", said the pastor.



"Rhys, you may kiss your bride!", he said



Family and friends, I introduce to you for the first time Mr. and Mrs. Rhys Sawyer!"

A  reception followed In the church social hall . . .



Claudia cut the wedding cake . . .



And shoved the first slice into Rhys' mouth.



"I love you Rhys", said Claudia.
"I love you, too", he said.



Then he gave her a romantic kiss.



Jonathan proposed a toast to the newlyweds.



Rhys and Claudia . . .



Ryan and Carrie . . .



Heather, Kevin, Ryan Sr. . . .



Noah and Miyuki and . . .



Mary and Tony joined in the toast.



When Rhys sit in a chair to get off his ankle, Claudia asked him if he was ready to go home.
"Yeah, I think I should.  My ankle's hurting pretty bad", answered Rhys.



Sweetheart, let's go home", said Claudia.



Rhys called transpotation and ordered a taxi.



Rhys and Claudia went outside to wait for the taxi.



When the taxi arrived a few minutes later . . .





Rhys and Claudia got in.



To be continued . . .

Picket Fences!  Part 73


Over at Rhys' place . . .

The newlyweds have come home from their wedding.
"You know I would have liked to carry you over the threshold if it wasn't for this broken ankle", said Rhys.
"Speaking of your ankle, I think you should get off it right away", said Claudia.
"Do you have any ideas where that can be accomplished?", he joked.

"I believe your bed would be the ideal place", she said.

"Well then Mrs. Sawyer, would you join me on my bed?", he asked.
"It will be my pleasure Mr. Sawyer", she said.

Rhys relaxed on his bed and Claudia joined him.  They cuddled.


They madeout.

"You want to do woo hoo?", he asked.
"More than anything", she answered.

They did woo hoo for the first time as husband and wife!

"You're everything I've ever wanted.  I love you Rhys"

"I love you, Beautiful."

"Rhys, there's someone at the front door", said Claudia.
"I'll see who it is", he said.



Rhys got up and went to answer the door.

"Can I help you?", he asked the stranger standing there.

"Are you Rhys Sawyer?", he asked.
"Yeah", said Rhys, "Who are you?".

"My name's Max Reeves.  I think I might be your son", he answered.
"Who's your mama?", asked Rhys.
"Lauren Reeves", said Max.
"Come 'mon inside and sit down so we can talk", he said.


"Do you remember her?", asked Max.
"Yeah, I remember her . . .

One afternoon I called Delivery and ordered a pizza and Lauren brought it.

I asked her to join me for lunch.  We chatted for awhile . . .

And as things usually did back then with me and women, she was instantly attracted me."

"One thing led to another and before we knew it, we did woo hoo."

"She left and I never saw her again."

"So it's possible that you're my father?", he asked.

"From the looks of you, there ain't no doubt about it", said Rhys


"Your mama didn't tell me she was pregnant.  If I had known about you,  you could have lived here with me and your brother Ryan", he said.
"I have a brother?", he asked.
                                 .  
"Sure, you have three brothers older than you and two sisters who are younger.  When I tell them they have another brother, they're going to want to meet you", said Rhys.
"I'd like to meet them, too", said Max.
"You also got a grandfather I want you to meet", he said.                                        

"Welcome to the family, son", said Rhys, giving Max a hug.

Then Rhys introduced Max to Claudia.

"Thank you Claudia.  I hope me coming here hasn't caused any problems between y'all."

"I've known Rhys a long time.  I'm use to surprises", she said.

"After I tell everyone, we'll have a big family-get-together", he said.

Rhys gave him a hug goodbye . . .


And Max left to go to his place.



When Max returned to his apartment on Main Street . . .

His neighbor Jessica Childs came to welcome him to the neighborhood.

"Would you like to join me for lunch?", he asked.

"Thanks, I don't mind if I do", said Jessica.

Max prepared macoroni and cheese for their lunch.

"This is good."

"Yeah, it is ain't it."


After they finished lunch they went into to livingroom and sit on the sofa . . .
"Max, where did you live before you moved here?"

"I was born in Buford Falls.  My mama is an NPC and they ain't allowed to have kids, so I was sent to the orphanage right after I was born."  

"What about your dad.  Couldn't you have lived with him?"

"My mama didn't tell him she was pregnant.  I stayed in the orphanage until I became an adult.  What about you?"    

"I lived with my parents over on Willow Road.  I found my own place after I became an adult.  I live in the apartment house next door."  

"I got to go home.  You can call me if you like.  I'd like for us to be friends", she said.
"That sounds good to me", said Max.

"Bye Max", she said.

Then Jessica left to go home.


There were sounds of agony coming from Noah's house . . .

His wife Miyuki had started into labor.

Miyuki give birth to a beautiful baby boy.

The baby has brown eyes and blond hair?  They named their son Jonah.

She handed Jonah to his father.

Noah fed the baby a bottle of milk.

Noah called his parents and invited them over to meet their grandson.

Then called his grandfather and invited him over.



Noah greeted them with friendly hugs.

Claudia held her first grandchild . . .


Before handing him to Rhys.

Rhys cuddled the baby.  Noah is Rhys' fourth grandson and the first one he and Claudia have together.



Ryan Sr held and cuddled his great-grandson.

After a short visit, the proud grandparents left to go home.

To be continued . . .