NOVEMBER 7, 1861

Michael sighs in frustration. “I don't know how Caly does this.” He mumbled to himself as he tried to get Palmer's face clean.

Palmer wiggled trying to get away. “I'm clean, Michael. When's Caly coming back?” He whined as he sat on the floor with his arms across his chest angry.

“Get up Palmer.” Michael growled as he reached for the smaller boy to pull him to his feet.

Dagon frowned as he stepped in front of Palmer. “Don't Michael. He's only six. When is Caly coming back?”

“I don't know! He needs to change before we go to meet the judge.” Michael said as he stepped around the other boy.  Just as he reached for the youngest boy Steven and Gabie walked in.

Steven frowned at seeing what was going on. “Mickey go hitch up the wagon and send the girls inside and cool off.” He watched his oldest son storm from the house.

“Be glad when Caly gets back.” Michael hissed as he slammed the door behind him.

“Palmer go change please. We're meeting the judge today.” Steven helped the young boy to his feet. “Caly won’t be back for a while yet Dagon. I'm going to need your help and the girls till she does. Specially with Thanksgiving coming up soon.” Dagon nodded as he followed Palmer up to their room.

A noise at the door caught Steven's attention. He turned just to see Aisley and Tina run into the house and up the stairs to their room. He smiled as he watched Gabie squeal and follow them.