Date: Sun, 6 Aug 2023 13:24:05 -0400 From: JJ Rockwood Subject: Zachary All Grown Up Chapter 105 Zachary All Grown Up Chapter 105 By JJ [jjrockwood000@gmail.com] FOR ALL THE PLEASURE NIFTY BRINGS LET US ALL DO OUR PART. DONATE TO KEEP THIS GREAT SITE FREE!! Chapter 105 The big day is almost here actually six days away. Everything is done and on schedule; the only thing left for us to do is pick up the tuxes. They will be here Tuesday to set up the tents and port-a-potties. The caterers will set everything up the morning of July 4. Work has been steady but not out of hand, which is good and it looks like we will be closed for the whole holiday weekend. Hector, Stanley, Zachary and I will be off on Monday. Sebastian is more than capable to handle everything. They are all working tomorrow and Sunday seeing there we only are working three days next week. On the way home Zachary says 'I will get takeout for us if you don't feel like cooking.' I answer 'That might work let's see who is staying besides Stephen.' When we get home to my surprise Stephen is at the picnic table playing something with Stuart. He rushes over and hugs us and takes my lunchbox and goes inside with Zachary. Stuart comes over and asks 'Papa can I talk to you for a minute?' I answer 'Always what's up?' Stuart looking down starts 'Papa I know I can be a jerk but I never knew or thought you and Zachary are; were;... but if I ever said anything to either one of you that hurt you or made you feel bad... I am sorry and I apologize. I would like to be the photographer for your ceremony if you would let me and if you haven't hired anyone.' He looked at me with wet eyes and I was speechless. I thought maybe there is hope yet for this kid. I shook his hand and pulled him in for a hug and said 'That would be the best present you could give us. To tell you the truth neither one of us never thought of photographer.' Stuart answers 'Thanks you won't be disappointed.' I ask 'Do you want to stay for supper?' Stuart replies 'No thanks Papa I have plans and I want to think about how I'm going to shoot this and what equipment I want to use. See you later.' We hug again and he's off. Inside Stephen is helping Zachary with the chores and I ask 'How are the gardens doing?' Stephen replies 'Papa after I will show you there are a lot of flowers on the tomato plants and Eric mixed some food for me today to feed them. Mario's plants are the same but ours at home only have a few flowers I fed them today too.' I say 'That's good now remember you can't feed them for another couple of weeks. What would you like for supper?' Stephen answers 'We had turkey burgers last night and liverwurst sandwiches for lunch. Is there any rigatoni and ricotta left over from the other day.' I answer 'Sorry you took the leftovers home.' Stephen just shrugs and says 'That's okay.' Zachary says 'Hey how about a meatball and mozzarella grinder or an eggplant parmigiana grinder.' Stephen says 'Will you split one of each with me. I want both.' Zachary says 'Sure that's a good idea. Jared what do you want?' I reply 'You know get me one of each also. Between the three of us there shouldn't leftovers.' Zachary orders the grinders, puts laundry in the dryer and he and Stephen leave to pick them up. While they are gone I make a salad and throw everything in it that is on it's way of turning bad. I text DJ and Eric and ask if they are coming tomorrow to work out and have breakfast. Within minutes they both answer yes. I also decide to see if we can go to Jerome's B&B for a couple of days. I call instead of texting. He tells me he was hoping I would call and has a room for us. I decide on Friday and Saturday nights he is only two or so hours away. I just hang up with him and they are back with supper. I ask 'Do you guys want to eat outside?' Both answer 'No, it's too hot.' I reply 'Okay grab your drinks everything is ready.' We eat and Stephen fills us in on his day. After the meal and cleanup he and I go out to look at the garden. When we come in I tell him to get the calendar so I can mark the next time he is to feed the plants. I ask 'Are you two making cookies tomorrow?' Stephen answers 'No we don't have too, Noni and I made cookies today and with your thing next week there will be plenty of stuff to eat.' Zachary says 'Our thing?' Stephen laughs 'Yeah you know your wedding.' Then he proceeds to make kissing noises. I ask 'How do you know there will be lots of desserts?' Stephen smugly replies 'My Mom and Noni say so.' Zachary laughs 'I guess he told you.' I ask 'What are you watching tonight?' Stephen answers 'I don't know. I have two maybe three things.' I say 'Let's get your shower out of the way. I'm tired it was a busy day at work.' Stephen starts up the stairs without an argument singing as he goes. He is naked looking at his tan lines in the mirror as I adjust the water. I ask 'Who is winning so far?' Stephen from in the shower says 'The cousins.' I laugh 'Well it is early yet.' While he is washing himself Stephen asks 'Papa can we have eggs on English muffins for breakfast. We haven't had them in a long time.' I answer 'Yes we can.' As he is rinsing off Zachary comes up with his warm towels and we kiss. All of a sudden we here 'Ewwww get a room.' Zachary and I laugh and I ask 'Where did you here that?' Stephen says 'Stuart and DJ both tell Eric that if they see him kissing Molly.' Zachary whispers 'What a sponge.' Zachary showers next and Stephen and I go downstairs. I ask 'Are you ready for a snack?' To my surprise he answers 'No not yet. Papa, do I have to carry anything at the wedding? My Mom says it used to be ring bearers carried a pillow with the rings and DJ and Eric showed me pictures on their laptops.' I laugh 'No you are more or less a junior usher you just have to stand with Uncle Anthony he will have the rings. I just thought it would great to have you as part of the ceremony.' Stephen says 'Good thing I would be afraid I would drop them.' Zachary comes down and the two go watch TV as I go to shower. Stephen rushes upstairs with my warm towels then runs back down saying the movie is good. By the time I get down they are munching on popcorn and laughing. I ask 'What are you watching?' They both answer 'Spy with Melissa McCarthy.' I say 'That's an old movie.' Stephen says 'It is? It's funny.' I reply 'Yeah kind of.' I ask 'How much longer?' Zachary says 'About ten minutes.' I say 'What are you guys watching then?' Stephen just shrugs. Later on they watch an old Abbott and Costello movie; DJ has turned his brothers on to them. When he was small he use to watch them with me, they use to be on every Saturday morning. After the second movie I announce 'I'm going to bed. I will lock everything up.' Zachary says 'We are coming too. I'm beat it has been a long day.' I tell them both to brush their teeth since they ate popcorn. In bed Stephen says 'You know Papa this is the last time I should sleep with you.' I'm surprised and ask 'Why?' Stephen explains 'Well you will be married next weekend and people that are married are supposed to sleep together.' I reply 'That is true but when you want you can sleep with me. I don't think Zachary will mind.' Stephen answers 'Okay but now that means that Zachary's bedroom is my room now and I can do what I want in there like at home.' I laugh 'Of course, you sound like you have plans already.' Stephen giggles 'You know Papa right now just a bigger tree.' I say 'Yes we already agreed on that but now we will definitely find one for you.' We discuss a few more things and both fall asleep.' The next morning I am up as usual get my workout in and go up to shower. Stephen is sound asleep and I wander into the other bedroom. I get into bed with Zachary and spoon him. Zachary slowly wakes and turns toward me. We kiss and he says 'Good morning Jared.' I smile and say 'Good morning to you.' Zachary whispers 'I didn't get a chance to tell you but while Stephen and I were out getting supper he told me something.' I say 'Is it that this is the last weekend he is sleeping with me.' Zachary looks surprised and nods in the affirmative. He continues 'I told him that isn't necessary that you and I have all week to sleep together. Stephen then tells me you probably need a break from Papa's snoring.' We both stifle a laugh. I ask 'What did you say to that?' Zachary replies 'I told him I am use to it just like he is and he laughed at that then rolled his eyes at me.' I say 'That little shit. He just told me that we would be married and should sleep together. I reassured him whenever he wanted he could sleep with me that you wouldn't mind. Plus I think he likes the idea that this room will be his to do what he wants.' Zachary laughed 'Probably those wheels are always spinning in that brain of his.' I say 'Before I forget we are going to Jerome's B&B for Friday and Saturday night we will come home Sunday and still have a day to relax before we go back to work.' Zachary asks 'But what about the cleanup after Thursday?' I answer 'That is what the caterers are for. There is nothing for us to do and we can do whatever before we leave on Friday or when we come back on Sunday. Jerome is only two hours away if that.' Zachary says 'Okay it will be nice to go away for a couple of days.' I say 'I'm getting up; you can sleep a little longer if you want.' Zachary answers 'Maybe for just a little. I slept good.' As I am having my first cup of coffee I go over the list of what has to be done. Basically on our part it is just the tuxes and getting ice for the cooler for the drinks. My shopping list for tomorrow is small we will only be working three days the wedding is Thursday and we will be gone Friday and I can go shopping when we come back Sunday or first thing Monday. My cell rings and it is my nephew Charlie. I answer and Charlie says 'Unc how are you? Do you need any help with anything? My last work day before the holiday is Tuesday.' I reply 'Wow thank you everything is under control. We only have to pick up our tuxes and ice next week everything else is being taken care of by the caterers.' Charlie says 'Another reason I'm calling is I have a problem and I know what to do and I would like your opinion.' I answer 'Go ahead I told you I'm always here for you.' Charlie begins 'To tell you the truth I basically know the right answers. I just need an objective opinion.' He lets out a good laugh and reminds me of my grandfather. I say 'Alright shoot.' Well Sebastian Jr. and I have been texting a lot lately. He wants to do things and try seeing each other again. To be honest I do miss him and the sex but I don't want a serious relationship with him.' I laugh and say 'I'm not laughing at you, I'm laughing that you are intelligent enough to know that you want to just keep this light and casual and you are horny!' Charlie snickers 'You are so right. We are seeing each other next Saturday night. He has to work the Friday and Saturday after the holiday. I already told him I am not looking for a serious relationship and especially with someone who has no idea how one should work with his old world ideas.' I say 'That was a perfect response and what did he say?' Charlie says 'Here is where the wrench was thrown into the works. His response was he is prepared and knows he can change my mind.' I am quiet for a few seconds and Charlie asks 'Uncle Jared are you still there?' I reply 'Yes I am. Sorry that kind of shocked me. What is your plan or do you want me to voice my opinion now?' Charlie laughs 'You and me both. Let me tell you what I going to do first. I'm kind of uncomfortable with having him come up here now and staying over. That answer kind of turned me off. I figure since I'm coming down for the wedding I asked Uncle Anthony if I could crash there for a couple of nights. This way here I have an excuse not to spend Saturday night with him. If he doesn't like that then I have my answer that we can't even be friends.' I say 'If it wasn't for the wedding and what not you are more than welcome to stay here.' Charlie answers 'I wouldn't impose like that. That is why I asked Uncle Anthony. I guess his two oldest are away so he has the room.' I continue 'You have a perfect plan and as great as he is; there are still issues he may never resolve. Then you also have to look at; why should he? If this is what he wants I'm sure there is someone out there that wants that kind of relationship. Yes relationships are all about compromise and blah-blah. But when you lose your identity that isn't compromising and nobody wins.' Charlie says 'Uncle Jared you have just said exactly what I have been thinking. I'm going to tell him not to stop looking for the right person.' We talked a little more than ended our call. As I was ready for a second cup of coffee Stephen came down. I asked if he was hungry or wanted to wait for his brothers. He seemed hesitant so I offered him an orange to hold him over. The house phone rang as I was peeling his orange. It was my son Chris. Chris says 'Dad we will be there after we check into the hotel Wednesday afternoon. Let's go out for supper.' I say 'No you and your family go out to eat and come over after by coffee and dessert.' Chris says 'That is another thing. Dad my in-laws want to take the girls to Dollywood for the week. What should I do?' I laugh 'Let them go what are they going to do here. Your Uncle Anthony's two oldest are going to Florida to see Becky's parents. Let these kids have fun. All of your nephews will be here but if something had come up even for them I would say go. So don't worry about it I will see you Wednesday. Have a safe trip.' Stephen asks 'What did Uncle Chris want?' I answer 'Just to tell me that they will be here Wednesday and your two cousins aren't coming.' Stephen says 'Oh I wanted to show Darla my slingshot. You know she has one Papa.' I laugh 'Yes I know.' Stephen asks 'Why can't they come? Are they in trouble?' I say 'No they are going to Dollywood with their grandparents.' I knew the next question 'What is Dollywood?' I answer 'The country western music star Dolly Parton opened up a big vacation spot down in Tennessee.' Stephen says 'I know her; she is big blonde hair and has big boobies remember in that movie where they kidnapped the boss.' I say 'Yes that is her.' Just then DJ and Eric knock at the back door. Stephen goes and opens it and the brothers greet each other then come and hug me. They head downstairs with Stephen following. I can hear them laughing and joking and I go down to see when I should start their breakfast. As I get downstairs Stephen announces I will be right back and runs up the stairs to the bathroom. This gives me a perfect opportunity to tell the other two about Stuart. I say 'Guys yesterday Stuart apologized to me.' The two of them at the same time answers 'What?' I repeat everything Stuart told me. DJ says 'Wow maybe he is getting his act together.' Eric is a little more skeptical and says 'Well let's see how long it lasts; that explains him going through his video stuff last night.' Stephen comes back down and I ask 'How much longer will you guys be?' DJ answers 'No More than thirty minutes we are almost finished.' Upstairs I find Zachary starting the laundry. I say 'Breakfast won't be for another thirty minutes or so. Can you wait?' He answers 'I can wait. This way I can clean upstairs and all I will have left is whatever laundry there is.' He takes off for upstairs and I start prepping for breakfast. It isn't long after they are sitting at the island waiting for their breakfast. While we are eating Eric asks 'Papa what do you need us to do this week?' DJ echoes 'Yes; tell us what we can do?' I answer 'I would think just make sure your grass is cut. They will be here Tuesday to set up the tents, tables, and chairs and drop off the Portable toilets. Thursday morning the caterers will set everything else up.' DJ says 'So that is it?' I think 'Well at some point Wednesday you can help Mario fill the cooler with ice and fill it with the drinks, everything is already over there except the ice. Everything else Alphonse and his staff will take care of.' Eric asks 'Who is getting the ice? Maybe we can go with our Dad. You shouldn't have to do anything but get ready. What time is this starting?' Zachary says 'The ceremony is at ten. Then we will start having hors d'oeuvre by 11:30 and then it will be non-stop food and dessert till three.' As we we're finishing DJ got a text from Sr. that he needed his help and he left. The other three helped me cleanup, then Zachary and Stephen went up with laundry and Eric is helping me wash the dishes and pans. I ask 'How is your summer going so far?' Eric answers 'Good; Molly and I see each other a few times a week. She is helping out at her Uncle's business a few days a week.' I say 'That's good does she like it?' Eric says 'Yeah she says the time goes by fast.' I ask 'What about Denny and Meat?' Eric laughs 'Denny is at a camp upstate. He won't be back till the end of August unless he hates it. Meat told him that he has found a couple of guys to play with no strings attached. Denny has finally seen that Meat isn't the guy for him.' I say 'Hey maybe Denny will meet someone at camp.' We finish cleaning up and Eric leaves. The rest of the weekend seemed to fly by. We swam, took care of the gardens, and cooked outside. Stephen wasn't happy going home Sunday but hey he never is. Monday we stopped for our tuxes on the way home from work. I dropped off Anthony's on our way home and Zachary ran over to his grandparents and I brought Stephen's to his house. When we finally got inside we tried ours on and they fit perfectly. Dan will be flying in tomorrow so hopefully his tux will be okay. Andrea called later that night to say Stephen's tux was fine. Tuesday when we got home the tents were set up in Andrea's yard and toilets were just dropped off. The tables were also set up and there were plenty of chairs. Zachary and I moved Mario's big cooler into Sr's garage. Tomorrow they will get the ice, plug it and fill it with the water and rest of the drinks. Tuesday night in bed Zachary says 'I'm getting anxious about this?' He is shaking a little and we sit up in bed. I say 'Talk to me.' Zachary says 'I keep thinking about the fallout of all of this.' I look puzzled and ask 'What fallout? I don't understand.' Zachary says 'For these kids, my grandparents, for us at work.' I say 'My grandsons are tough and resilient. I don't think your grandparents will fair any less. At work Jim has told me there won't be a problem. Listen no one has to know until you or we are comfortable with this. No one is coming Thursday that isn't on board. If you are that adamant about this we can cancel the ceremony and have a big Fourth of July picnic. But remember you were the one who bought the rings and asked me to marry you.' For a second or two I seriously thought he was going to say let's postpone the ceremony. Zachary grabbed my hand and says 'You are right. Let's do this. I guess it is just a last minute freak out.' I kiss him and say 'Just remember you are not alone in this.' Wednesday work drags for everyone except Sebastian. He will be working alone Saturday and Monday. There really isn't much left in the department he will be basically here for coverage. At the end of the day we all wish each other a good holiday. My son texted me after lunch they were in town and at the hotel. All of us were going out for dinner including Andrea and her family and Anthony and his. Anthony got us reservations at Sally's in New Haven for six. They could handle a party of twelve. It was a fun evening and we were at the restaurant till after eight. Unfortunately for Stephen there wasn't any dessert. It was decided that Stephen was staying with me and Zachary was sleeping over at his grandparents. After our showers we headed for bed. In bed Stephen was a little hyper. He says 'Papa I can't wait till tomorrow.' I ask 'Why?' Stephen continues 'All the food and especially all the desserts. The only thing is maybe I should do the treadmill with you in the morning.' I laugh 'You can do it Friday; you have been active all week.' Stephen says 'I still want to do a little tomorrow, make sure you get me up. You know Papa this is the last time you won't be married. Are you excited too?' I answer 'Yes I am. Lets' get to sleep before you know it will be morning.' The next morning as I am finishing my workout Stephen comes downstairs and I put him on the treadmill for twenty minutes. We eat breakfast and then I get him in the shower. I say 'I will dress you after I shower and shave.' Stephen says 'Okay. I'm going down to watch TV.' He leaves with a towel wrapped around him. I find him downstairs stretched out on the couch watching the old b/w sitcoms. I say 'Bud let's go it is getting late. Let's get you dressed.' Stephen cuts off the TV and there is a knock at the back door. It is Anthony and he is dressed except for his tie, cummerbund, and jacket; which he is carrying. Stephen says 'Wow Uncle Anthony you are all dressed. Papa is getting me dressed now.' He scampers off upstairs and I say 'Can you give me a hand? I'm getting a little anxious.' Anthony smiles 'That is why I am here.' The two of us get Stephen dressed and then I go into my room to finish dressing. Anthony helps me with my tie and the three of us head downstairs. Anthony got a text from Becky that the JP has arrived and that we should get over there. I say 'You know I haven't even checked what it looks like over there.' Anthony laughs 'That is what you are paying a caterer for. Becky also says everything is perfect.' With that I lock up and we leave and cross the street. I am surprised the Alphonse's staff set up an arch for the ceremony to be held. There were chairs set up on the lawn and everyone was seated except for us three and Zachary and his Dad. The JP was standing in the middle of the arch and gestured for us to stand at his left. Stuart was recording the whole thing from a ladder. The three of us just got into our spot when Zachary and Dan entered we looked at one another and smiled. The JP and gestured for them to stand at his right. Zachary and Dan were dressed in light gray long tailed tuxes; whereas the two of us were in dark gray tuxes and Stephen was in a medium gray tux. We all had white shirts and matching ties. The JP says 'It is fitting that on the birthday of our great country that these two fine men can bond themselves together in matrimony. Without boring all of you let's get show on the road. Who has the rings?' Anthony steps forward and gives each of us our ring. The JP says 'Jared and Zachary have written their own vows. Zachary please start.' Zachary takes my hand and starts 'Jared from the age of thirteen I fell in love with you and everything that you are. Today I promise to be your navigator and sidekick in all of life's adventures. I promise to be your best friend and your husband. Your love gives me hope. Your smile gives me joy. You make me a better man.' Zachary smiles and sings 'I hope you don't mind that I put down in words/ How wonderful life is while you're in the world.' Zachary places the ring on my finger. I take Zachary's hand and say 'You have always been a special part of my life and could never imagine that we would be standing here today. You have taught me that I would be able to find love again. You don't marry one person you marry three; the person you think they are; the person they are; and the person they are going to become as a result to being married to you. I love you. Not only for what you are. But what I am; when I am with you.' I place the ring on his finger. The JP continues 'By the power vested in me in the state of Connecticut you are married. You may kiss.' I wipe the tear from his eye and we kiss and turn and face all our families. There wasn't a dry eye in the group except for Stephen and little Anthony and everyone stood and clapped. We turned back to the JP and thanked him and shook his hand and I say 'Please you are very much welcome to join our celebration.' He in turn replied 'Thank you but believe it or not I have two more weddings to perform today.' He went and talked to Anthony for a few minutes and left. It wasn't long after we had posed for photos with everyone in every possible combination that the servers started setting up the hors d'oeuvres in the tent. There were stuffed mushrooms, Swedish meatballs, chicken wings, fresh fruit, cheese, and a charcuterie board with fresh veggies and dips. The Deejay started playing soft mellow music basically Zachary's and my favorites. Alphonse and his crew were starting to cook the main courses and sides. Thankfully for 11:30 in the morning it was only 70 degrees with a nice cool breeze coming from the north. Having a small guest list gave the two of us a chance to talk to everyone. They kept handing us envelopes and I was not happy. We specifically had written on the invitations 'No Gifts!!' But as Sr's mom and Maria told us 'Get over it; would you go somewhere without a bringing something?' They had me there. I had to laugh and agree. After we made the rounds and talked with everyone Alphonse told me that they would be ready to serve the main course in about thirty minutes. I in turn turned around and got everyone's attention and announced when we were eating and that Zachary and I wanted everyone to be comfortable that we were going to change into something more comfortable and please do the same. Zachary, Stephen, Anthony and I went across the street to change. Mario, Dan, and Maria went to their house and Andrea's family along with her mother-in law and Becky did the same. In the house across the street Zachary helped Stephen get out of his tux. I had already laid out clothes for him to wear. We left Anthony and him in his room to change while we went to ours. Once the door was closed Zachary was in my arms and we kissed. He says 'I love you husband. Thank you.' I reply 'I love you more. Thank you for marrying me.' Zachary laughs 'Not a problem.' The two of us change fast and he makes the bed that I didn't do this morning. Stephen was whispering and laughing to Anthony when I entered the hallway. When they heard me Stephen started telling Anthony about what he is going to do with his room over here. I play it off and announce that we are ready and they both answer they are too. I say 'Anthony leave your tux here. I will bring them back tomorrow or next week.' Anthony says 'That would be great. Thanks.' Across the street everyone is inside the tent milling around. The hors d'oeuvres are gone the tables are set with tablecloths and candles. The bartender is all set up and the boys have already hit the cooler for drinks. Alphonse enters and announces all the stations are ready. Zachary and I start at the beginning. I take Stephen with us to make sure he sees everything. It isn't long before everyone is seated eating at a table. Andrea and Sr have his Mom and Chris and Sue at their table. My grandsons and little Anthony are at another. Maria, Mario, and Dan are at one table Anthony, Becky, and Charlie are at another. The tables are in rows facing each other with us at the head of the square so that everyone can talk to everyone. As everyone was finishing Alphonse entered and says 'There is plenty of food do not hesitate to get seconds or thirds. But first let the servers bring everyone champagne.' Two servers came with empty glasses while two others came by and filled them. When everyone had a glass Anthony stood up and says 'Let us all raise a glass to Jared and Zachary with the wish that they find all the happiness as they have brought and given to all of us; Jared and Zachary the best always.' Everyone repeated to Jared and Zachary!! After my second helping I took Alphonse aside and giving him a check for the balance. I also gave him a cash tip; he hesitated and I insisted and I also gave the four servers and bartender a cash tip for the work they had done. To me everything was well worth it. After everyone had their fill of the meal; Alphonse and his crew cleared everything away. There were enough leftovers for a week and they were stored in Andrea's basement fridge. Alphonse asked 'When do you want me to start the coffee the urns will take about twenty minutes or so. I looked at my phone and answer 'Start them now it is almost three. Have the cupcakes and cookies arrived? Alphonse answers 'Yes thankfully I was getting nervous but those two girls want everything as fresh as possible. We are going to break down all of the stations except for one for the coffee and cupcakes.' I reply 'Whatever makes it easier for you.' By the time the dessert table was set up, everyone was ready for coffee and dessert. I never noticed that Maria and Stephen had disappeared until Anthony approached Zachary and I and whispered 'Here comes a surprise for you two.' Maria came over carrying a tray of cookies with Stephen by her side. Stephen says 'Papa we made sugar cookies especially for today.' Looking at the tray there were sugar cookies in the shape of men dressed in tuxes with ties. Zachary eyes filled up and he says 'Noni you two really outdid yourselves with them.' He kissed his grandmother and hugged Stephen. I say 'No wonder you didn't want to make cookies last weekend these are perfect.' Thank you and I kissed them both. I put the tray of cookies on the table where one of the servers made room. When Stephen saw the cupcakes that were put out his eyes almost popped out of his head. The rest of the afternoon seemed to fly by. Charlie and Andrea's mother in law were the first to leave. I did get a chance to talk to my nephew. I asked 'How is your plan going?' Charlie laughs 'Well I got my answer. When I told Sebastian I would be here for the weekend and staying at Uncle Anthony's but that we could do movies, dinner, golf or something just no sleep overs. He says 'Well maybe we should make this another time that seeing that he was working. He may be too tired to want to do something. I guess he thinks I'm a dope. He works every Friday and Saturday. So I played dumb and agreed with him. So I will make an excuse every time he calls if he calls.' I ask 'So what are you doing this weekend?' Charlie replies 'Tonight I'm going to see fireworks with work friends and I was invited Saturday to a cookout.' I am happy to hear it and tell him. On his way out he says 'Uncle Jared this was a perfect day. Thanks for making me part of it. I will talk to you next week.' We hug and he leaves. By 8pm the Alphonse and his crew left. They will get the tent and tables tomorrow. We broke the bar down and there isn't that much left. I give away the wine to anyone who wanted some; the hard liquor was split between Mario, Anthony, Sr. and me. The champagne I kept for the two of us. The desserts were divvied up to anyone who wanted some. Stephen's cookies went home with us. He would eat them there. At 8:30 Anthony, Becky and little Anthony left. Chris and Susie not long after that. They were staying till Monday and we would go out for dinner Sunday afternoon after we came back from Jerome's. Mario, Maria, and Dan also left. The only thing for us to do tomorrow was to take care of Mario's cooler. The rest was on Alphonse. The three grandsons were going to see the town's fireworks with friends and Zachary told Stephen he can come over for breakfast tomorrow and sleep over Sunday night. I thanked Andrea, Sr. and my grandsons for all their help and we said 'Goodnight.' After we took a nice long shower and of course 'got off' we got into bed. Sitting in bed leaning up against the pillows I ask 'Are you pleased with how the day went?' Leaning with his head resting on my shoulder Zachary answered 'It couldn't have been more perfect. The ceremony, my god the food, all of our families and of course youuu!! (said mockingly)' I laugh 'You're too much but I'm happy you did.' Zachary says 'Alphonse did a great job I hope we can get to use him again or hopefully one of the family will.' I'm pretty sure Sr's mom will and maybe Becky and Anthony they kept complimenting everything.' Zachary asks 'What time are we leaving tomorrow for Jerome's?' I reply 'Probably around eleven; check in is at two and it only takes a couple of hours to get to Quakertown. There really isn't anything for us to do tomorrow except return the tuxes and maybe help them get rid of the cooler across the street.' Zachary agreed 'I can finish up here and do laundry, etc. this way we can relax and enjoy Sunday and Monday when we come back.' I laugh 'Stephen may be disappointed in breakfast tomorrow. It is going to be yogurt, fruit, and maybe an English muffin for him.' Zachary says 'Yeah he might but you can give him a big breakfast Monday morning.' The two of us yawned at the same time and I turned off the lamp and we spooned and fell asleep. I was awake at 5:15 and went down to run on the treadmill and lift. By seven I was showered, shaved, and dressed. I cut up fruit for breakfast and made coffee. The phone rang at 7:30 it was Stephen he was up and dressed and ready to come over. I met him and walked him over. I asked 'Did you have a good time yesterday? Did you sleep okay?' Stephen excitedly replies 'Papa that food was good and all those cupcakes! Wow they were the best I ever had. I took a shower and you guys were still outside when I fell asleep.' I ask 'Are you only one up?' He answers 'Yes but I told my Dad I was leaving to come here.' I say 'That's good. I hope you aren't disappointed in breakfast but we are having yogurt, fruit and you can have an English muffin if you want.' Stephen answers 'Ewwww that is what Zachary and DJ eat. Why?' I laugh 'Because we have to go away and do things some things before we leave. Sorry.' Stephen says 'Okay this way here I can eat more cookies with what we are having for breakfast.' I laugh 'Of course you would look at it that way. When we get inside go wake up Zachary if he isn't up.' Stephen nods. As soon as we get into the kitchen Stephen makes a dash for upstairs. He is back down in a flash announcing he isn't upstairs. I notice the basement door opened and I point to it and Stephen goes down. I can hear them laughing and talking as I get everything out for breakfast. After Zachary finishes we all sit and eat. While I'm cleaning up with Stephen; Zachary starts laundry and showers. I called the rental shop they are open today and I go up and grab the four tuxes and tell Zachary we are off. Stephen and I come back and check my garden and I give him instructions on what to do while we are gone. Inside Zachary is finishing up the laundry and has packed our bags for the two days. The three of us go across the street to see if there is anything we can do. The grandparents and Dan are sitting on their back deck having coffee. We join them I ask 'Did you enjoy yourselves at the wedding?' Mario answers 'Geez the food was fantastic and plenty.' Maria says 'It couldn't have been more beautiful; everything was perfect.' Dan says 'I agree with what they say. It couldn't have been a nicer day.' I say 'I'm glad to hear it.' Zachary says 'Noni can you hold all those cards and gifts here till we come back on Sunday?' Maria answers 'Of course.' I say 'Those sugar cookies were a great surprise. Thank you.' Maria looks at Stephen and says 'That was entirely your grandson's idea.' I looked surprised and say I always knew you could keep a secret.' Zachary laughs and says 'I knew that.' Stephen blushes and says 'I only told Uncle Anthony when we were changing but DJ and Eric knew.' I reply 'But you didn't tell us and the gift was for us that is what's important.' Zachary asks 'Poppy let us do the cooler before we leave.' Mario responds 'Nonsense once it finishes draining there weren't that many drinks left. I have the boys and your father to bring it back down the cellar. Go get ready to leave; the morning is slipping away. Maria says 'By the way the tent is gone and they will be back to get the tables. Go enjoy your two days everything is under control.' We kiss, hug, and shake hands and leave. Zachary whispers 'I have to hit the bathroom.' I laugh 'Go I will take Stephen home.' Stephen moans. Zachary says 'I will see you Sunday don't eat all those cookies.' Stephen says 'I can't you have them at your house. See you Sunday. Bye.' The back door is open at Andrea's and she and Sr. are having coffee. Stephen runs to bathroom. I say 'Okay we are leaving soon. I see everything is under control here.' Sr. says 'You know I am going to recommend Alphonse to everyone who needs a caterer he is phenomenal.' Andrea agrees. I say 'Don't forget to make reservations for dinner Sunday for all of us.' Andrea says 'I'm going to ask Mario, Maria and Dan too.' I say 'Good idea.' She then says 'Dad, Chris and I were talking there is so much food left over why don't we just have it here outside. There are actually only three extra people Chris, Susie, and Dan.' I reply 'It's up to you I just thought not to make any work for anyone.' Sr. says 'Jared we didn't do that much for the wedding it was only the cooler and yard work. Believe me this is no imposition. We have four young strong sons.' Andrea laughed and agreed. Stephen returns and I say 'Where are your brothers?' Stephen answers 'DJ and Eric are on their phones and Stuart is on his computer.' I say 'Well tell them goodbye for me and I will see you Sunday. Stephen hugs me and says 'Call me when you get home.' I tell him I will and say goodbye and leave. Zachary is loading his Explorer when I get back. After I hit the bathroom I lockup and we leave for Quakertown, Pa. JJ Everyone I have been asked if this is the end of this story. There is far from over. I will be on vacation for the next few weeks and then moving. So don't freak out there probably won't be anything posted till late September or early October. Everyone enjoy the rest of the summer. Thanks for all your kind words. EVERYONE PLEASE DONATE WHAT YOU CAN TO NIFTY!!!!