Come Away to the Meadow

Hi friends. I’ve struggled with how to approach the subject about which I’ll be writing. Where to begin? How much to tell? But the reality of this subject is too important to put off any longer. I’m introducing it here and will address it more in the chapter after this one.

To learn the details about what has been happening on the Crow reservation in Montana, I interviewed some of the staff at Crow Agency’s college. Emerson Bull Chief contributed a great deal of information, as did the other three men in the interview. The Sinaloa and the Jalisco cartels have established themselves on the reservation, bringing harrowing danger to the tribe—particularly to the children. But the cartels are not the only danger. Interstate 90 runs through the reservation, exposing the people to predators passing by as well. I hope that as I share in fictional form, you will gain an understanding of the dangerous realities faced by the tribe, who are mostly Christian. But more than that, I hope to show you ways you can help alleviate this danger.

May God give you insight and inspiration as you read!

Sheri Schofield

Chapter 8

I laughed softly against Ethan's chest then stepped back. “I’m glad to help, Ethan.”

“Skye, I’m a mess emotionally right now,” he said softly, looking apologetically into my eyes. “I’ve just learned Jodie died. I’ve learned I have a child, a son she didn’t tell me about. Part of me is furious about that, and part of me is so grieved about her death, and I don’t know how to manage the pain. Yet when I look at Ramie’s face, I feel overwhelmed with joy.” He shook his head.

“I can only imagine what you’re going through. I know it cannot be easy.”

“It isn’t. But I want you to know how much I appreciate you, and how you’ve helped.”

“Daddy?” a sleepy voice made us turn together toward the bedroom. Ramie stood there, rubbing his eyes and yawning.

Ethan reached him in three long steps and swept him up into his arms. “Hi there, Ramie. Have a good nap?”

“Uh-huh.” He yawned again, leaned his head against Ethan’s shoulder and wrapped an arm around his neck.

“I’ve made spaghetti for dinner. Anyone hungry?”

“Yes!” Ramie said, raising his head eagerly.

“I thought you’d like that. All my nieces and nephews like it, too.”

Ethan nodded. “Good choice, Skye. I like spaghetti. Anything I can do to help?”

“Yes. There’s a highchair in the upstairs closet by Jason’s room. It’s wood and kind of awkward for me to carry. Could you fetch it for Ramie? I think he’s a little short for the dining room chairs.”

“Sure.” Ethan turned and dashed up the stairs, returning quickly with the highchair and planted it next to the table. “Up you go, son,” he said as he lifted Ramie into it.

Once we were all seated and the food was on the table, Ethan stretched his hands out to Ramie and me and bowed his head. “Father in heaven, thank you so much for bringing Ramie to me. Thank you for the food you have provided, and which Skye has prepared for us. We are blessed beyond measure with your generosity. Amen.”

The spaghetti, salad, and whole wheat rolls slathered in rich butter and honey, with strawberries and cream for dessert, topped off our day.

When we’d finished, Ethan looked over at me, grinned, and began clearing the table. “If you wash, I’ll dry these dishes.

“Thanks.”

“Me too!” Ramie insisted.

“Okay. Let’s pull a chair over to the sink. You can stand on it and inspect the dishes while I wash them to make sure they’re clean.” I grinned at Ethan. “I like this teamwork.”

After I washed the first plate, I dipped it in the hot rinse water and showed it to Ramie. “Is this one clean?”

He nodded.

Ethan reached over and took the clean plate and dried it with one of Mom’s dishtowels with its cheerful sunflower design. I made sure there were a few dishes with a little food clinging to them before showing Ramie. He’d crow with excitement when he found the food and ordered the dish back into the wash water. By the time we were finished, we were all just a little wet and laughing together.

“I putted a punkin in the garden today,” Ramie announced, glancing up at Ethan with glowing eyes.

“You want to show me?”

“Yes.” Ramie reached out his arms and Ethan swung him up, heading toward the door.

I hung up the dishtowel and followed them out to the garden, hanging back a bit to watch their interaction. Ethan looks so happy. Thank you, Lord, for bringing Ramie to him. His broken heart will heal now.

“Time to head home,” Ethan said as the sun dipped low. He scooped Ramie up, kissed his cheek, and smiled.

The precious picture of the two of them in that moment imprinted itself on my mind forever. I know they will be fine as long as they have each other.

“Are you still okay with the meeting at your house Sunday evening?” Ethan asked, searching my face.

“Yes. I am looking forward to it.”

“Good. Can I … we … see you tomorrow?”

“Sure. Come over after breakfast around eight. Would you like to take some of the leftovers from supper home with you?”

“Thanks. We’d love to, wouldn’t we, Ramie. You like spaghetti, right?”

“Yes.” He nodded, smiling happily.

As I packed the cooled spaghetti and bread rolls, Ethan came over, Ramie on his arm. With his free arm, he pulled me close in a quick hug, a smile lighting up his face. I put the leftovers into a paper bag and turned to give it to him. “Here you go. That should help if you get hungry later. I noticed the store has plenty of cans of spaghetti, ravioli, and other noodle products.” I looked up into Ethan’s face.

His eyes studied mine for a moment. “Thank  you, Skye.” He dipped his head down and brushed my cheek with his lips.

I smiled up at him, recalling the times he used to kiss my cheek or hair when I fell down and was injured. My tears had brought a quick hug, a kiss on the cheek and comforting words. It recalled a simpler time when Ethan had been like one of my older brothers--caring, protective, kind toward the youngest child in our group.

“Me too!” Ramie demanded, holding out his arms to me.

Ethan smiled. "Okay, son." He turned to bring Ramie close to me.

I laughed, leaning toward the child. He lifted his head and kissed my cheek, then his arms came around my neck and he hugged me tight. “Bye-bye, ‘Kye.”

My heart was moved by his kiss and trusting affection so soon after my coming into his orbit.

Ethan smiled broadly. "See you tomorrow, Sky." He carried Ramie out to his jeep and set him down next to it, then turned toward my car to fetch the car seat.

I watched Ethan transfer it into his jeep and lift his son into the car. I waved as he left glad to see the happy smile on his face.

He's beginning to heal. Lord, thank you for bringing Ramie into Ethan's life. You have lifted him out of the pain he was living in.

***

"My sister's daughter, Ramona, was one of the girls who was taken," Sheriff Bold Eagle from the Crow reservation said.

It was Sunday evening and our group had gathered in my family’s living room. It was a chilly evening and Ethan had lighted a fire in the fireplace, creating a pensive mood.

"She and her friend, Jenny Little Bear, were walking home from youth group at the time.,” Bold Eagle continued. “A neighbor heard their screams and rushed to the door. He saw a dark van speeding away. The first two numbers on the plate were four-six. It doesn't match anything on our tribal computer. I believe the van was from outside the reservation. Ramona is only fifteen, and Jenny is fourteen."

"Do you have pictures of the girls?" Aaron Russell, our own sheriff, asked.

"Yes. I have a few pictures. The clearest ones are school photos. But their mothers had some which showed the girls in action. I've made copies for you." He handed a sheaf of papers to Aaron, who glanced at them and passed them out to us.

"Crow Nation follows Jesus. Ninety percent, that is. We as a people felt it was important to make our allegiance know. We have posted a sign along the highway saying, "Jesus is Lord on Crow Nation." He shook his head. "Only about ten percent of our people do not like this. They still hold to their own ways. Drug cartels operate on our land. I and my deputies are not strong enough to push them out. They also take our children, and we do not know where they are. It is a grief to us. I came to you after your new deputy, Liam Webster, stopped at my office to greet me. I told him of our struggle. He had heard of it and told me he had been praying for us."

Sheriff Bold Eagle tapped his chest and looked down. "I feel in my heart that our girls are near. I do not believe the drug cartels were involved in this kidnapping. I do not know how to explain this feeling. I am coming to you asking for prayers and for help in finding Ramona and Jenny. I believe prayers will guide us all."

Aaron cleared his throat and spoke. "Thank you for honoring us, Sheriff Bold Eagle. We will be glad to pray for you and your people as though you were our brothers and sisters. For in Christ, we are family."

Bold Eagle nodded solemnly. "As you pray, the Lord will tell you what to do. Of this I am certain. He is the God who answers prayers and gives directions."

Ethan nodded. "Yes. He will do that. God helps his own who ask."

"Let's spend some time praying for Sheriff Bold Eagle," Pastor Barrett said.

For the next half hour, we poured our hearts out to God, asking for his guidance and help in finding the missing girls from Crow Nation. By the time we had finished, I felt my heart had bonded with the Crow Nation believers and Sheriff Bold Eagle. Surely God would help us. He must!

After everyone had left, I stood alone on my porch in the twilight. I wondered about the missing girls. They were just children! Were they frightened? Where could they be? I shuddered as a wave of fear for their lives swept over me.

Come Away To The Meadow

Hi friends. As I write, the weather is cold and neighborhood kids are ice fishing on the town’s lake. It may not be a huge adventure, and the fish may be small, but they’re having fun. Meanwhile, I’m staying toasty warm inside. I hope you all are, too. Enjoy this next chapter!

Chapter 7

            Ethan had fastened the car seat into my little Toyota. Lifting Ramie into it and fastening the belt securely, I smiled and kissed his cheek.

            Tatum wanted to come along, but I patted her head and told her to go back to the house. She whined but did as she was told.

            “Bye, doggie,” Ramie called, waving his hand.

            Tatum turned and barked. Yes, their friendship was off to a good start.       

Lord, help me bless Ramie and Ethan. I want to help them heal. It won’t be easy. But I’m willing.

            A few minutes later, I pulled into the parking area next to Ethan’s clinic. Helping Ramie out of the car and letting him help me carry the basket, we walked up to the door and entered.

            Ethan’s receptionist was Heather Lovel, a pleasant, middle-aged woman from church.

            “Hello, Skye. Who’s this you’re bringing in with you?”

            “This is Ramie.”

            “Hi, Ramie. Did you come to see the doctor today?”

            Ramie looked up at me with a puzzled expression on his face.

            “We brought lunch for Ethan,” I said. It was up to Ethan to explain. I wasn’t going to say anything until he did.

            “I see,” Heather said, looking puzzled. “Let me tell him you’re here. Why don’t you sit down in those chairs?”

            A moment later, Heather returned. “Dr. Russell will be here in a couple minutes. He’s finishing up with a patient.” She was clearly dying to know what was going on.

            “Thank you.” I smiled.

Ramie picked up a picture book with a puppy on the front and handed it to me. Lifting him onto my lap, I opened the book and began reading to him about the puppy.

A few minutes later, Ethan came out of the exam room ushering a mother and child toward Heather while his nurse assistant walked toward the file cabinet with a patient’s chart.

“Have her take this medicine three times a day until it’s gone. If she doesn’t get better in a couple days, call Mrs. Lovel and we’ll see her again.” He smiled and patted the child’s head.

“Thank you, Dr. Russell,” the mother said, sending him a quick smile.

Ethan stooped to the little girl. “Now you get better soon, Carla.”

“Okay.” The little girl coughed and sniffed.

Patting her on the head, Ethan turned toward us.

“Skye! Ramie!”

Ramie ran over to Ethan, who picked him up and smiled.

“You’re a doctor, Daddy?”

“Yes, I am.”

“Oh. Are you going to give me a shot?” He looked apprehensive.

Ethan laughed. “No, son.” He turned toward Mrs. Lovel, who was openly curious. “Heather, I’d like you to meet my son, Ramie.”

“Your son!”

The nurse assistant turned, surprise written across her face.
“Yes. I’ll explain later. Ramie, say hi to Mrs. Lovel and Mrs. Brown.

Ramie tucked his head against his father’s shoulder and murmured, “Hi.”

Heather came around her desk and smiled. “What a sweet little boy, Ethan. He looks just like you.”

“So I’ve been told.” Ethan grinned.

The assisting nurse, Mrs. Brown, came over to meet Ramie, too.

I walked over to the desk and smiled. “Hi, Heather.”

“Skye?” I could see the curiosity on her face.

“I’m home for the summer and volunteered to take care of Ramie while his daddy works.”

“How nice.” She smiled. I could see the wheels of speculation turning in her mind.

“It’s convenient. I’m used to working with children, and I live across the meadow from Ethan.” I shrugged. “It works out well for everyone.”

“I see. Well, I’m glad to see this little darling has someone so nice to spend the summer with.”

“Thank you.”

Ethan turned to his assistant. “Skye, this is Mrs. Brown.”

“Call me Diane,” she said smiling and shaking my hand.

“I’m pleased to meet you, Diane.”

 Turning to Ethan, I held up the basket. “We made lunch for you. I thought it might be nice for Ramie’s first day in town. Are you free for lunch? Or do you have other patients now?”

“Heather, when’s my next appointment?”
            “Not until two. Mrs. Turner is coming in to have her blood pressure checked and to have you look at her foot.”

“Okay. Then I’ll take lunch now. Heather and Diane, you might as well start your lunch breaks now, too.” Ethan sat Ramie down, took off his clinic coat and glanced at me. “Let me wash my hands. I’ll be right back.”

Mrs. Lovel smiled at Ramie. “It was nice of you to come visit your daddy at work.”

The little boy clutched my hand and moved close.

“Tell Mrs. Lovel about the garden, Ramie.”

“I dug lots of dirt today.” His face lit up. “’Kye and me are gonna put bwoccoli an’ tomatoes in the dirt.”

“That’s our after-lunch chore.” I smiled. “I think he’s going to make a great gardener.”

Ethan came out. “Ready to go?” He scooped Ethan up.

“Weddy!” Ramie said, wrapping his arms around his daddy’s neck.

“There’s a picnic table in the park down the street.” Ethan led the way.

As we walked toward the crossing, a woman with long, blonde hair sauntered toward us.

“Dr. Russell! How nice to see you,” she cooed. “Who are your friends?”

Ethan’s smile was a little tight as he introduced us. “Jolene, this is my son Ramie, and this is

Skye.”

“Oh, hi,” she said glancing uninterestedly at me then turning her attention back to Ethan. “You said this is your son?”

“Yes. His aunt brought him to me.”

“My, isn’t he adorable,” she giggled, rubbing a finger against Ramie’s cheek. “Is this your auntie?” She glanced back at me.

Ramie turned his head away.

“No, Skye isn’t his aunt. She’s a family friend.” Ethan said. “Excuse us, Jolene. We need to move along.”

“Yes, Doctor. If you must.” She smiled coyly at him.

“Good-bye.” Ethan nodded his head politely and took a step forward, putting his hand at my waist, guiding me toward the crosswalk.

He’s sending her a message. I smiled and looked up at him. His eyes twinkled.

“Well!” Jolene muttered. She tossed her head and walked away.

“Thanks, Skye,” Ethan leaned over and whispered as she moved out of earshot.

We walked into the little park area surrounded by cottonwood and aspen trees.

I set the basket on the bare picnic table and pulled out a tablecloth to cover the rough boards.

“”Kye maked cookies,” Ramie said.

“How nice.”

“Yes, but first we’ll have sandwiches.” I unpacked the bag, placed napkins on the table, and set the sandwiches on them.

Ramie clutched his hands together and lisped, “Tank you, Jesus, for dis food. Amen.”

Ethan smiled gently and rubbed Ramie’s hair. “Good job, son.”

It was supposed to be a private picnic together, but we were not left alone. People from the shops and people driving by stopped to say hello. By evening, the entire valley would know that Doctor Russell had a son and possibly a sweetheart, for Ethan made it very clear we were both his. He did not explain anything in front of Ramie.

I smiled across the table, meeting Ethan’s twinkling eyes. Let them speculate. It’s one of the pleasures of small-town life.

After lunch, Ethan returned to his clinic and I took Ramie to the grocery store. It had been built back in pioneer days using native rock, as had several other local structures. Next to the store stood a modern, temporary greenhouse, our destination. I placed Ramie in the child seat on a grocery cart. “Let’s go find plants for the garden.” Steering between the rows of starter plants, we added  broccoli, tomatoes, and strawberry sprouts to our cart.

“Punkin?” Ramie begged. “Can I have one?”

“Okay. But you’ll have to hold it very carefully. There isn’t any more room in the cart. I placed a container with three pumpkin sprouts in his hands and was favored with a smile of pure sunshine. What a precious child! I kissed his cheek.

At the register, Shirley Delaney rang us up. She and her husband Eli operated the store, with frequent help from their son, Justin, who would be graduating from high school next year. Their daughter, Violet, served as an EMT with the local fire department.

“Who’s your little friend?” she asked, smiling at Ramie.

“This is Ramie Russell, Dr. Russell’s little boy. His aunt brought him here.”

“Oh! How nice. Welcome to our store, Ramie.” She looked over at me, curiosity written all over her face. “Ethan tells us you have opened your parent’s home to our meeting Sunday evening.” She placed the plants into a spare cardboard box.

“I was glad to hear you’re part of the group meeting about the Crow situation.” I lifted the box into the cart. “It’s a terrible thing that’s been happening on the reservation. I’m hoping we can find a way to help.”

“Yes. Eli and I will be there. Pastor Barrett and Martha will be there, too. We feel it is something which needs our prayers and attention. We’ll be at there at the first meeting. I’m not sure how many meetings we can attend, but we’ll be part of the group.”

“I look forward to seeing you at the house.” I said, paying for the plants. “I’m glad to see our community helping the Crow.”

Back at the ranch, I carefully unloaded the plants and took them to the garden. Ramie, determined to hold onto the pumpkin plants, followed me. One by one, we planted all the small sprouts, digging holes in the soft soil together setting the various plants in the holes, patting carefully around them, and watering with a gentle spray.

Ramie, who had never planted a garden before, found everything fascinating. Tired from the excitement and work, he fell asleep on the living room floor next to Tatum after we washed our hands with the garden hose and went inside. He didn’t even open his eyes when I lifted him in my arms and carried him into the downstairs bedroom. Covering him with a light-weight quilt, I kissed his cheek and left the room, keeping the door open slightly.

Promptly at five-fifteen, Ethan’s Bronco pulled into the driveway. I stepped outside to meet him.

“How’d it go?” he asked anxiously.

“Fine. We had fun planting a garden, and now Ramie’s asleep in Mom and Dad's bedroom.”

Ethan walked across to the bedroom and quietly opened the door wider, looked inside for a long minute, then returned to me.

“Thank you for helping me, Skye.” His arms reached toward me, and I stepped into his embrace.

In the silence, I could hear his heart beating under my ear. His cheek rested on my hair as he held me gently.

“Skye,” he murmured. “You’re an angel. I don't know what I'd have done today without your help.”

Come Away To the Meadow

Hi friends. I hope you all are having a pleasant New Year. With the rush of Christmas behind us, I’m settling in to more writing time. In addition to “Come Away To the Meadow” I’m also writing and illustrating a children’s book about a trumpeter swan pair named Loyal and Penny. Not only does it entertain, but it helps children learn about nature and how to interact with swans and ducks. Over the years, I’ve had a difficult time trying to decide what to do with my painting skills. I finally settled on using my art for children’s books. That’s in addition to my adult books. So I keep fairly busy doing both.

For those of you who enjoy my romance novels, “Legend of the Lake” and “Before You Find Me” are both available on my website: www.sherischofield.com. For those who enjoy heart-pounding suspense, my book “One Step Ahead of the Devil” is also available. It is the true story of a battle I fought to save my husband’s life against incredible odds. I had to write under the pen name S. M. Hausen to protect my identity at the time. This one appeals to men, too. Every man who has read it did so in one sitting, refusing to put it down even to go to bed!

Today, though, let me share with you the next chapter of “Come Away To The Meadow..”

Blessings,

Sheri Schofield

Chapter 6

            Ramie held onto the saddle horn and wiggled forward. Ethan mounted carefully behind him, holding onto the reins. With one hand around Ramie’s waist, he adjusted the reins and nudged Buck into a slow walk.

Lord, keep Ethan and Ramie in your peace tonight. I saw the pain on Ethan’s face when he learned about Jodie’s death, and the bewilderment when he met Ramie. I saw Ramie’s sorrow when he said good-bye to Becka. He’s lost his mommy, his grandma, and his aunt. Comfort this child, Lord! Comfort them both. For Ethan, the sun rose and set on Jodie. I don’t know where I fit into all this. But I know you brought me here for them.

I watched Ethan and Ramie ride back home, my heart going with them both. How would Ramie feel without anyone familiar near-by?

***

            Later that night, Ethan laid a sleeping Ramie in the twin bed he had moved into his room. He didn’t want the toddler to awaken and be all alone in the dark. Rummaging around in the kitchen, he found a night light and plugged it into the wall near Ramie’s bed. Perfect. That should do it.

With a sigh, he sat down on his own bed and sat looking at his son. Pulling off his boots, he lay down and pulled one of his mom’s quilts over himself, but he couldn’t sleep. Staring at the ceiling in the semi-darkness, he thought back over his day. What a strange mixture of emotions! His ordinarily methodical thoughts were a complete jumble.

            Jodie! I can’t believe you’re gone. My heart is breaking again for you … I wonder if the pain will ever go away? I thought I was over losing you. But somewhere in my heart, I couldn’t quite believe you would truly disappear from my life. I still had hope. Until today. Oh, Jodie. Why didn’t you tell me about our baby? How could you do that? Did I hurt you so much by not spending enough time with you? Jodie, my love. I thought I was healing. But today Becka pulled the scab off the wound, and I’m hurting all over again.

            Skye. What comfort she’s been to me. I trust her to help me with our son. That’s strange because I haven’t trusted anyone since you left, Jodie. I trust Skye, though. She will help Ramie and me. We’re going to be okay. I’m sorry I failed you.

            Our son! Oh, Jodie, he is precious. I’ve never felt such a strong sense of protection as I did when Becka placed him in my arms.

            Tears flowed down his cheeks in the night until sometime in the late hours, he fell asleep.

            Early in the morning before the sun arose, he awoke suddenly to the sound of sobs. Ramie was sitting up in bed. “Mommy!” he called. “Where are you, Mommy?”

            Ethan slid out from under the quilt and  reached for Ramie, drawing the crying child into his arms. His own eyes blurred with tears. “It’s okay, Ramie. Daddy’s here,” he murmured tenderly.

            He moved back to his own bed and lay down, settling his son against his shoulder and pulling the quilt over them. It wasn’t long before Ramie began to calm down, safe in his father’s arms.

The next thing Ethan knew, his phone alarm began beeping. He started to turn to reach for it, but his shoulder was weighed down. Ramie lay snuggled up close to him, his head on Ethan’s shoulder and his arm thrown across his daddy’s chest.

            “Rise and shine, Ramie,” Ethan said softly, leaning over and kissing Ramie’s hair.

            The child’s eyes opened sleepily, and he yawned. Looking up at Ethan’s face, he said, “’Mornin’ Daddy. Are we gonna ride horseys today?”

            Ethan sat up and lifted Ramey to his feet on the bed. “We will later. Right now, we need to get dressed and have breakfast. Then I’m taking you over to Skye’s house. She has horseys, too.”

            “Okay.”

            An hour later, having dressed and eaten, Ethan buckled Ramie into his car seat, placed a diaper bag full of things Ramie might need on the seat next to him, and drove over to Skye’s house.     Stepping out of the car into the fresh air, he helped Ramie out and removed the car seat. Skye might need it. Turning, he saw Ramie running toward the horse pasture.

***

Standing on the deck to meet Ethan and Ramie, I saw the child heading for the horses and ran after him, swinging him up into my arms and planting a kiss on his cheek. “Later ‘gator. We have to say bye-bye to your daddy.”

            Ramie laughed as I carried him back to the car.

            “Is there anything else you’ll need?” Ethan asked anxiously as he fastened Ramie’s car seat into my car.  

            Picking up the diaper bag and checking its contents, I could see he’d brought everything he imagined I’d need. Being used to children, including my niece and nephew, I assured him we’d manage. “We’ll be okay, Ethan. I assume you ate breakfast?”

            “Yes. Ramie and I had some cereal and milk, and I made us some scrambled eggs.”

            “Good.” I lifted the little boy toward his daddy for a good-bye hug.

            Ethan stooped down and drew Ramey into his arms, kissing his hair tenderly. “See you tonight, Ramey.” He looked up at me briefly, his eyes shining. He handed Ramie back to me. “Have fun with Skye today. I’ll see you at dinner.”

            I smiled and waved. “See you later.”

            “Bye-bye Daddy,” Ramie called, waving his hand.

            Ethan’s face shone with wonder as he headed toward town. In that moment, I knew he would be alright. Yes, there would be times when he thought of Jodie and would feel like his heart would break. But with Ramie there, I knew his sadness would pass someday.

            “’Kye?” Ramie said, looking at me anxiously. “Will my daddy come back?”

            “Yes, honey. He will come home after work today.” I felt tears come to my eyes and blinked them back.

            Ramie sighed, rubbed his eyes, and gave a little sob.

            I kissed him on the cheek.

            “Would you like to help me dig in the garden?” I pointed to the raised beds enclosed by eight-foot-high rabbit wire.

            “Okay.” He nodded.

             I carried him over to the toolshed and set him down. “We’ll need some little shovels for digging.” The small spades were hanging neatly inside the door. I reached for some gloves, too. Dad kept child-sized gloves in the shed for the grandchildren, and there was a pair just right for Ramey, and another pair for me.

            “Here. Let’s put your gloves on first,” I said.

            Ramie lifted his hands solemnly and I slid them onto his tiny hands.

            “If you don’t want to wear gloves, that’s okay,” I said, noticing how poorly they fit.

            “I want to wear ‘em.” Ramey was firm.

            A few minutes later, we were inside the garden, enclosed by the eight-foot-high fence Dad had built to keep deer and rabbits out. I showed Ramie a place where he could dig. “Make the dirt all soft, and we will plant some things there later.”

Solemnly, Ramie dug into the soft garden soil.

I worked next to him, digging into the warm earth, turning it over and hammering the clumps out. Watching me, Ramie copied what I did. Dirt flew when he shoveled and pounded it. When we finished, I scooped him up. He was covered liberally with dirt.

            “Let’s get you cleaned up a little, then we’ll have cookies and milk.”

            “Okay, ‘Kye.”

            We went inside. I ran some warm water in the tub, adding a liberal dollop of bath bubbles. A few minutes later, Ramie was playing in the water, happily rubbing bubbles on his head and face.

            Dipping a washcloth in the water, I took one of his hands in mine and sang the old nursery tune. “This is the way we wash our hands…” Using my niece’s bathroom bucket, I told Ramie to close his eyes and hold his breath, then dumped a bucket-full of water over his hair to get the dirt out.

            Ramie laughed. He played in the water until his hands started to wrinkle.

            “Time to come out. The water’s getting cool.” I held a towel up for Ramie and lifted him out of the bathtub to dry off. Once he was dressed, we went into the kitchen where I set cookies out on a plate. He climbed up into a chair at the table and looked up at me. His nose barely cleared the surface. I laughed and put a fat pillow under him to raise him higher.

            “Is that better?”

            “Yes.” He smiled.

            I placed two cookies on his plate. “Can you manage two?”

            “Yes.”

            Tatum walked over and sat next to Ramie, her tail thumping and her big brown eyes looking up hopefully.

            Ramie reached out and patted her head.

            Good. He’s used to dogs. Tatum’s used to children, too. She’ll help me watch over Ramie.

            I’d baked some oatmeal-raisin cookies for him that morning. Did he have any allergies? I wasn’t taking any chances with chocolate or nuts. We munched companionably on the cookies and drank the milk.

            “Where’s Daddy?” he asked, looking toward the door.

            He needs to see where Ethan works so he won’t think his daddy is gone, too. “He’s still at work. Say, why don’t we make a lunch and take it to your daddy?”

            “Yes! An’ let’s take cookies.”

            “Okay. Can we make him a sandwich, too?”

            Soon the two of us were busy putting the lunch together. A fat, roast beef sandwich for Ethan. Since Ramey still didn’t have enough teeth to manage roast beef, we made some tuna sandwiches for the two of us and put everything into a wicker basket. A thermos of cold milk, oranges cut into pyramid shapes, cookies, plus napkins, two plastic cups, and Ramie’s sippy cup went into the other side of the basket. Wetting a washcloth, I put it into a baggie. With oranges, we’d need extra help cleaning up. I placed a folded tablecloth over it all, tucking in the corners.

            “Let’s go,” I took his hand in mine and lifted the basket with my other hand.

            I wonder if Ethan has told his staff about Ramie yet?

Come Away To The Meadow

 Hi! I hope you all are having a happy new year. For those of us in the frozen northern plains, we had a short reprieve from the cold and were able to enjoy sunshine and warm temperatures lately. We were able to visit both our kids and their families at Thanksgiving. Christmas was quiet. We decorated outside our house for the first time since the children were small. The little girl next door loves Christmas lights and tried to decorate our trees a little last year, so we decorated a lot for her this year. She’s a sweet child.

Here’s more of my book, Come Away To TheMeadow. I hope you will enjoy it!

Blessings,

Sheri Schofield

Chapter 5

            We began a pattern of dinner and horseback rides that day, a pattern I hoped would last the summer. I wanted to find out more about this older, adult Ethan, my childhood friend and hero. Tall and muscular at age thirty, he still resembled the high school football running back for whom I’d cheered many years before.

            “Skye,” Ethan said after dinner a few days after I’d returned home. We were sitting on the deck pulling on our riding boots. “Aaron said he wants some of us from church to meet with the leaders of the Crow reservation about their missing children. He’s has been wondering where to have the meeting. He suggested my place, but I’m not much of a host.”

            I could see he was unsure about this. “Would you like me to have the meeting here?”

            Ethan relaxed. “Could you? I’ll help.”

            “Sure. I’d be glad to.”

            “Good. I’ll let Aaron know. He said he’d like to have the meeting Sunday evening. Is that too soon?”

            “Not at all. Do you know how many are coming?”

            “Let’s see. Mayor Brooks and his wife Lenore. Pastor Barrett and his wife Martha. Max, their son and our local newspaper editor. Eli and Shirley Delaney, who own the general store. And of course, Cecilia Cottrell from the library. John Red Hawk and the new deputy, Liam Webster, will be there, too.”

            “That’s ten, plus Aaron, you, and me. Is Annette coming?”

            “Yes. She’s lined up a babysitter for the evening.”

            “Good. I look forward to meeting her. I’ll bake some cookies for snacks.”

            “Okay. I’ll bring some soft drinks.”

            “Do you know what the meeting is about?”

            “It’s about the forming a group to pray for and look into the problem of the missing children from the Crow reservation. We want to help solve the problem.”

            “Oh. I am eager to hear about that. I can’t imagine the pain those families are feeling.”

            Ethan gazed out across the pasture and shook his head. “What’s happening is purely evil.”

            “Out here in all this beauty, it’s hard to imagine how this can be going on.”

            Ethan stood and reached his hand out to me. “Come on, Skye. Look at Rio and Buck over there, pining for a ride.

            I looked toward the pasture. Sure enough, Rio and Buck were looking toward us, ears pricked, waiting impatiently for us. Ethan had left his horse at our ranch the night before, waiting for the ride we would take today. Tatum wagged her tail and dashed ahead toward the barn, eager for her evening outing.

            Stopping under the May tree, its white blossoms filling the air with perfume, Ethan turned to face me, still holding my hand.

            “Skye, I’m so glad you were able to come home this summer. It doesn’t feel so lonely anymore. Having you here brings back the good memories of childhood, when we all used to play together. You are a blessing to me. I was feeling alone and kind of lost when your parents reached out to me after Christmas, and now you’ve reached out, too. Thank you.”

            Suddenly, I knew in my heart that God had brought me here to help Ethan, my good friend.

            “Ethan, you have always been the one I ran to for help when I was a child. I’m happy to be here for you now.” I smiled up at him.

            A car drove past the ranch slowly. I watched it turn into Ethan’s place. “Um, Ethan?”

            “What?”

            “A car just pulled into your place.”

            He looked up. “Huh. I wonder who that is? Guess we’d better ride over and see.” We mounted our horses, cantering across the meadow and through the aspen grove, Tatum running on ahead checking out smells along the way and barking once at a squirrel. As we reached the house, the car door opened, and a dark-haired young woman stepped out. I didn’t recognize her.

            “Becka?” Ethan was clearly startled.

            “Hi Ethan.” Becka’s solemn face prepared him for the news.

            He dismounted. “Something’s wrong, isn’t it?”

            “Yes.” She shook her head then dashed a tear from her cheek.

            “Jodie?” I heard the pain in his voice.

            Becka nodded. “She was in a boating accident with a friend three weeks ago and drowned.”

            Oh no! Jodie is—was—Ethan’s wife. I caught my breath.

            “Why didn’t you call me?” His voice was soft. I could hear the hurt in it.

            “I wanted to, but Mom wouldn’t let me.”

            “I see.”

            “But now she’s had a breakdown, and I have to make all the decisions. She’s in a rehab center and we don’t know how long it will take her to recover.”

            “I’m sorry, Becka.” He stepped forward and hugged her gently.

            She stepped back after a moment. “There’s more.”

            “What?”

            I dismounted and remained at a discrete distance, not wanting to interrupt their shared pain.

            Becka turned and walked back to the car. Opening the back door, she reached inside and gently pulled a little boy from a car seat. “Come on, Ramie. We’re here.”

            The child seemed to be about three, with ash blonde hair and green eyes. The resemblance to Ethan was unmistakable.

            Ethan froze, speechless, unable to process what he saw.

            I stepped forward, sensing Ethan’s shock.

            “Ramie, this is your Daddy.” She looked up. “Ethan, this is your son, Ramie.” She placed the little boy in Ethan’s arms.

            “Why didn’t Jodie tell me?” Ethan asked his voice anguished. His eyes fastened on the child who gazed up at him uncertainly.

“I wanted her to tell you, but she refused. She said she wanted to keep him all to herself. And Mom backed her up. Jodie was very bitter, Ethan.”

“I see.” Ethan looked up at her quickly, then back down into the face of his son, who was looking up at him. “How old are you, Ramie?” he asked gently.

“Aw-most fwee,” he said, holding up three fingers.

“I have his birth certificate and health files with me.” Becka ducked into her car and pulled out a box with papers and stuffed animals in it. Setting it on the ground, she opened a file and pulled out a birth certificate.

“I see she put my name down as his father, at least.” Ethan’s voice sounded gruff.

“Yes.”

He looked up. “Thank you for bringing my son to me, Becka. I hardly know what to say. Or think. But would you like to come inside? I have iced tea if you’d like some.”

“I can only stay for a few minutes. But yes, I’d like some iced tea.”

Ethan turned to me. “Skye, this is Becka, Jodie’s little sis. Becka, Skye is my good friend from across the pasture. Please come inside. You too, Skye.”

Leading Rio over to the hitching post near the house, I looped the reins over it, feeling helpless. I followed Ethan and Becka into the house, telling Tatum to wait on the deck. It was the first time I’d seen the inside of the Russell house since coming home. His parents’ furniture was familiar, but the kitchen was bare, as though he rarely used it.

Ethan turned to me. “Skye, would you take Ramie?”

Reaching out, I took the child in my arms. Looking into the little boy’s apprehensive eyes, I smiled to try to reassure him. “Hi, Ramie. I’m Skye. I live across the meadow.” I walked over to the big picture window. “See that house? I live there.”

“Horsey?” he asked, pointing to the dapple-gray.

“Yes. That’s Rio, my horsey.”

“Dat?” He pointed to the tan horse.

“That’s Buck, your daddy’s horsey.”

He looked solemnly at the horses. “I like horseys.”

Ethan opened a cupboard and brought out three glasses, filled them with ice, and added tea. “I don’t have any juice,” he said glancing at Ramie, not certain what the child would drink.

“That’s okay. I have his juice in the car.” Becka slipped outside to fetch it.

“Skye …” Ethan’s voice trailed off helplessly, his eyes on my face.

I walked toward him carrying Ramie. “Everything is going to be okay, Ethan.”

Becka came into the room carrying a sippy cup. “Here, Ramie.”

The little boy took the cup, turned his head toward Ethan and offered it to him. “Dwink?”

For the first time, Ethan smiled. He took a quick drink from the sippy cup. “Yum. Apple juice.”

I sat Ramie down on the floor and took the ice tea Ethan offered. Together with Becka, we sat around the table. Ramie climbed up on his aunt’s lap and leaned back against her shoulder as he sipped his juice.

Ethan asked about Ramie’s health records. Were his shots up to date? Was he prone to colds? What kind of foods did he like?

I can’t remember everything about the conversation, but I noticed Ramie watched his dad and his aunt intently, not wanting to miss a thing.

Finally, Becka stood, Ramie in her arms. “I need to get back on the road. I’m sure you will do just fine, Ethan.” She glanced at me and smiled sadly. With a sigh, she looked into my eyes. “You will help, too?”

“Yes, Becka. I will help.”

            She turned. “Can I visit once in a while, Ethan?”

            He nodded. “Just let me know when you can come for a visit. We’ll all be glad to see you.”

            “I have some things in the car that you’ll need.”

            “Let me help you unload.”

Becka handed Ramie to me. “Go to Skye now, honey.”

            I held Ramie in my arms while Ethan and Becka unloaded the car.

            A stroller, diaper bag, small suitcase, and miscellaneous blankets and toys ended up on the couch and floor. A box of food and juice landed on the counter. Ramie looked on solemnly.

            “He’s not using diapers anymore except at night,” Becka said. “Soon he won’t be needing them at all.”

            “Thanks for the information.” Ethan nodded.

            Together we walked out onto the porch. Becka reached out and took Ramie for a moment. “Honey, I’m going to leave you with your daddy now. But I’ll come back to see you sometimes. Okay?”

            Ramie’s lip trembled and eyes filled with tears. Becka’s eyes nearly flooded over, too. She hugged her precious nephew and handed him to Ethan. “Your daddy is going to take good care of you now, Ramie.” Kissing the little boy on the cheek, she turned quickly and walked out to the car.

“Bye, Auntie Becka,” Ramie called, his lips trembling.

“Bye, Ramie. See you later.” She waved and started the car.

We watched her drive away. Ramie began to cry loudly. “Auntie Becka!” He reached his hands out toward the retreating car.

“It’s okay, Ramie,” Ethan murmured as he drew his son closer to his shoulder. “Everything is going to be okay.” He stroked Ramie’s hair, comforting him. But Ramie sobbed louder.

After a couple minutes, Ethan looked over at the horses and asked, “Do you want to ride a horse, Ramie? We need to walk Skye home.”

The little boy hiccupped and looked up with interest. He nodded. The tears began to slow down.

When Ramie was calm, Ethan lifted his son onto his saddle. “Hold tight to this,” he said, patting the saddle horn.

Ramie gripped it with both hands, his eyes wide with wonder, still a little tearful.

Together we walked the horses back to the M-bar. When we reached the edge of the porch, Ethan put his hand on my shoulder. “Thank you for being here for me, Skye. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Ethan?”

“Yes?”

“It’s only Thursday. You have to work tomorrow.” Would you like to bring Ramie over in the morning on your way to in?”

“Oh!” Ethan looked startled. “I was so overwhelmed, I forgot.” His eyes sought mine.

I nodded at his silent question. “Yes, Ethan. I’d love to have Ramie visit me tomorrow while you work.”

“Are you sure you want to take Ramie for a whole day?”

“Yes.” I smiled up at him and at the child in the saddle. “I’ve always loved children. That’s why I went into teaching. Besides, I’m an experienced auntie.” Turning to Ramie I asked, “Would you like to help me with the horses and the garden tomorrow?”

His face lit up and he nodded solemnly.

“We’ll be fine, Ethan,” I said. “We can talk tomorrow after work.”

Giving me a quick hug with his free arm while keeping his other hand on Ramie, he murmured softly, “Thank you, Skye.”

Ethan looked up at Ramie, who was still sitting in the saddle. “Mind if I come up there

and sit in the saddle behind you, son?”