JANUARY 2, 1860

After seeing Michael off to school, Caly went about doing her chores. While she was milking the cows she heard the barn door open. Leaning out of the stall she was in, she saw her father walk in. Smiling she said, "Hello father."

Then she went back to what she was doing.

Walking over to her Steven said, "Caly, honey I should have told you yesterday, but I couldn't seem to find the right time. But I received a letter yesterday that the Smiths have moved to Europe last month. I know you were close with their daughter, Stephanie, when you were little. She got married about 2 months ago, and her and her new husband went with her parent to Europe. I am sorry I didn't tell you. Are you okay with this?"

Looking up from the cow she replied, "What? Oh yeah I'm fine. Can you please finish up here for me? I want to be alone for awhile." Steven nodded yes, and then Caly stood and walked out of the barn and into the pasture behind the house, thinking about her old friend since childhood.

After walking for a while, she came upon the big old oak tree in the middle of the pasture. She leaned against her favorite tree. Sitting there she remembered how they would play dress-up with her mother. And how they would chase Michael, when they would catch him spying on them whenever they were together.

She was lost in her thoughts and didn't hear someone calling her. Feeling someone nudging her foot brought her back to the present. Looking up and blocking the sun with her hand she saw that it was Buck. Forcing a weary smile his way she said, "What has you out here today?"

Standing in front of her he replied, "I thought I would come out and check the herd for you. I know you had a lot to do with making sure Michael got off to school okay. You look as if something else is wrong. What is it?"

Shrugging her shoulders, Caly replied, "Oh it's nothing really. I was just thinking of an old friend that I knew back in New York. My father just told me that she got married about 2 months ago, and her new husband, her and her parents moved to Europe last month. I didn't even know she was engaged. I don't know why she didn't tell me."

Smiling at her Buck said, "Well you should be happy for her." Though she tried not to smile at him she said, "Oh, I am happy for her. I just wish she would have written me to tell me though."

Raising an eyebrow he replied, "Well maybe she didn't want to bring up old memories that would upset you. Now come on smile." Caly couldn't help but smile and laugh when he raised his eyebrow like that.

Saying through fits of laughter, "Thanks so much. You also seem to know how to cheer me up."

Standing Caly gave him a hug and said, "Well I better get back to my chores before father gets mad at me. Thanks again."

Smiling Buck said, "Anytime friend, you are always there for me, when I need to be cheered up. Okay, I'll check the rest of the cattle for you. Do you want a ride back to the house?"

Shaking her heed no, she replied, "No that is okay. I would rather walk. I want to enjoy the sunset. I'll see you later, okay."

Smiling at her as he mounted up, he said, "Okay, see you later." Then he rode off and she walked back to the house. As she reached the house, Caly was greeted by her father.

Steven said, "Hi honey, are you okay?"

Smiling Caly said, "Yes, I am fine, thanks." She kissed him on the check as she walked by.