Our evening stroll was beautiful. Dan and I toured the property holding hands, laughing about how many times we said one day we would own a bed and breakfast. Our plan was to host hiking, fishing and kayaking adventures. We never talked about a twenty-five room inn, cooking for fifty to seventy-five people on any given night, or hosting weddings for three-hundred people. Honestly, we wouldn’t change a thing. As long as Dan and I are together, we can handle whatever exploration comes our way.
After we strolled past Michael and Christine’s cottage, Dan asked me if having all the children living at the inn made me happy. “I know you wanted to have children,” he said looking into my eyes. “I’m just wondering if seeing them brings you joy or makes you feel sad that we never had any of our own.”
“Dan, God has blessed me with so many wonderful people, and they have given me more children than any woman could ask for. There isn’t a day that goes by where I’m not thanking Him, especially for you. You are all I ever wanted. Needed in my life.” I took two steps, stood in front of him and said, “You are an answered prayer. I’m so grateful to share this life with you. You make me happy. I plan on spending every day discovering something new with you by my side.”
He nodded before kissing me. “I love you so much.” Then he reached for my hand and said, “You make every day feel like
Christmas. We’re going to enjoy our retirement one day at a time.” “Yes, we are,” I replied, squeezing his hand.
Under the nautical twilight, a warm spring breeze blew by as we approached Kevin and Kourtnee’s home. I smiled when I saw the post and rail fence, chicken wire, gardens filled with flowers, herbs and fresh, tender spring greens, including baby lettuces. “She’s such a good mother,” I said.
Dan laughed, rolled his eyes and added, “She makes all of Delilah’s food.”
“Really? I didn’t know she made her own baby food. How do you know that?”
Dan laughed again. This time a little louder. “Kevin. He told me he has to pre-wash the babies clothes for an hour or the food stains won’t come out. Beets are the worst.” Dan began swinging our hands in the air as he sang, “A Kiss To Build A Dream On”.
When Teresa decided to live with Sal, but continue to work for me, I was happy for her. Marrying Sal meant she wouldn’t be alone at night. Sal assured her he could handle his four-room bed and breakfast all by himself.
On the days when Dan and Jesse go fishing or when they join Gina Marie on their motorcycles through Newport, Teresa and I got to share a soothing cup of tea. I was glad when Gina Marie bought the property next door. She’s been a godsend lately. Keeping Dan under budget, teaching our guest how to paint landscapes and filling in wherever needed at the inn.
I looked over at Dan, inhaled the night air and said, “We have the best family in the world!”