📚The Caves

*************************Editing*********************************************

Chapter 1

From the day I got my first job at fourteen, I would go to school and work. Most people would say I am a workaholic. That was the furthest from the truth. My parents died shortly after my fourteenth birthday, and my Aunt May came to live with me. Aunt May told me everything in the house was mine, and she set up a checking account for my inheritance. She told me, "Abigail, I am only here to make sure you do not kill yourself. You will continue to go to school while I go to college. It's the least I can do for my Brother. Your parents did not have much, but there is no mortgage. You will not have to worry about rent or a mortgage. The money they left will cover the utilities and bills till you are eighteen. We will also get you social security so you will have money. I only ask for a place to live and go to college until you decide what to do with the house and your future."

We agreed on how to run the house, and once a week, I would go with her to buy food for us both. Aunt May taught me how to pay bills and run my house. Having the freedom no one else I knew had was great. Over the years, Aunt May and I became close. When I went to get a job at fourteen, she told me not to burn myself out. Aunt May helped me get social security due to my parents' passing, and I got my first job helping my neighbor who lived next door. I would clean my neighbor's home, and as she got older, I would help her with daily things such as meals and shopping. As the years passed, Aunt May and I would do our school work together, and I had my Mom's old truck to have freedom once I turned sixteen. 

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During this time I dove into my art and my Mom's old Gallery started to display my art and every piece I created sold. The art dealer had me hold some of my items for shows we had every few months. So I would keep some items for the show in packing crates the gallery provided and I would drop some off every few weeks. My next show was coming up in a months time.

Over the years things in the home were frozen in time and a few weeks before the summer before my senior year I decided that I would start to get rid of things as I turned eighteen a few weeks after I graduated and wanted to sell the house once Aunt May and I graduated. Going through my parents office I discovered that they owned land in the state park and there was a small cabin on the property. I contacted the lawyer who had handled my parents estate and he said that home was mine as well. 

He apologized for not bringing it up to me but he said my parents insisted that I discover the paperwork on my own. Laughing I told him I only just now decided to start going through the house to see it once I turned eighteen. He told me when I was ready he would help me find a good realtor and would do the legal work as my parents figured if anything happened to them I may want the cabin to live in instead of the house.

As I was busy with end of the year things my junior year I did not go to the cabin and land until the last day of school. Aunt May and I drove out to the cabin. The property was a very nice size and had two bedrooms. I offered to Aunt May to move out here once I sold the house next year. She told me she would think about it. I told Aunt May I think I would come out here and clean later this week and anything I decide to keep would be moved out here during the next year. 

The following week after I was finished working I went to the cabin with a basket of cleaning supplies and the extra vacuum we had since I had turned on the electric and water I made sure all the appliances worked. I started in the attic cleaning and worked my way down to the basement. With the exception of a few pieces of furniture the house was empty. When I got to the basement I realized that my parents turned this into a game room as there was a pool table downstairs. That is so like my Dad he had to play pool at least twice a week. 

As I cleaned I noticed the rug was bunched up next to the bookcase under the stairs. Trying to move the bookcase it slid to the side revealing a passage behind it. Taking out my phone I put on the flashlight and discovered there was a light switch on the wall. Flipping the switch the passage lit up and I started down the passage. Following the passage I found stairs that went into a cave. The cave was lit up and there was a pool of water. My parents must have known about the caves and I would search everything in the house to see if I can find any paperwork on it. Looking around I saw that there was other caverns attached to the cave and lights that followed it all.

Going upstairs I made sure the rug was fixed and I shut the shelf back in place. Making sure everything was off I locked up the house and headed home. When I got home I found Aunt May laying on the couch. I touched her foot and asked, "Hey you alright?"

She took my hand and said, "I have the worst headache."

"Do you want some Tylenol?" I asked.

"Yes," She said. "It is probably stress from getting ready for my last year of school."

Getting the Tylenol from the kitchen I grabbed her a bottle of water. When I got to Aunt May, she sat up and asked, "How did cleaning the cabin go?"

"Good," I said. "Its ready for whatever I decide to bring over. The only thing I did not clean was the wood stove. I need to do some research but there is a special cleaner. I need to find someone to come out and cut the trees back and stack the wood in the wood bins."

She looked at me and said, "I will ask around. Once the trees are cut back and the grass is cut the cabin will look so much better. You should also see the river from the kitchen once the maintenance is done."

"If you know anyone wanting to earn some extra money let me know," I said. "Since the property has that huge white fence around it even along the river parts there is a fence. We can pay by the hour or by the section they work."

She took out her phone and posted a message on Facebook about it. She said, "I put on there its piece work or hourly and the more that is done the more that you get paid. Lets see what type of response we get. You know I was thinking this house from the attic to the basement is full to the brim. I never realized how much your parents were hoarders. The sale of items would probably pay for the landscaping at the cabin."

She rubbed her temple and I said, "Aunt May I am worried about you. How about this I order us some Chinese for dinner and you go take a long bath and relax."

She stood up and said, "You know what kid that sounds good."

"Use the tub in Mom and Dads room its the best one," I said. "Plus it has the jets."

She laughed and went upstairs. When I heard the bathroom door close I started to walk around the house and see where I wanted to start cleaning out. Since the basement was huge in the cabin and only had the pool table in it I thought that I could turn part of it into an art studio. I loved art and sold a lot of my pieces to a local gallery for commission. Since I could not decide I went up to kitchen and made a map of the new house to see if that would help me in my decision. After making the map I decided the best room to start with would be Mom and Dads room to start their closets. Grabbing a laundry baskets for what I was going to keep and a box to sell the rest, I opened up Mom's closet and started to sort until the doorbell rang with our food delivery.

Placing everything on the breakfast room table I went to tell Aunt May and saw her coming down the stairs. I said, "You look a lot better."

"I feel better," She said. "What is going on with your Mom's closet?"

"I decided to start going through everything," I said. "Mrs. Gardney has a friend who has a store and accepts items for consignment or purchases outright so I called the store and explained the situation, they are going to accept things as I clean out the house to sell."

"So more to give away than keep?" She asked.

I opened the bag of food and started to put everything on the table as I said, "There is two boxes the one on the bed are definitely not's as mom was a bit shorter than me. There is a box in the closet for me to think about."

She sighed and said, "Abigail take your time on it. You are in no rush and you have plenty of money for the bills and paying people to do the landscaping at the cabin."

Getting us plates I said, "I will. Aunt May it has to be done and I do not want to do other rooms yet. Unless we use the tub that is one room neither of us go into there. It is not easy and I will admit it may be hard but I know I can do it. If I get upset I will walk to the art room and work on whatever piece I have going. Besides I know that does pay well."

"Speaking of art room what are you planning on doing with it once you move to the cabin?" She asked.

Laughing I said, "The basement is huge and only holds a pool table. So I am thinking of getting some good cabinets and a real artist table and setting it up as a studio in a potion of the room. When I am sorting the house I am boxing up things I may use for recycled art. I have plenty of boxes and I may get some totes for storage as well."

"So if I see piles of stuff leave it right," She said. "Not that you make any messes anyway. You know what we should go get that art table and cabinets for you this weekend. That way we can really get your art studio organized. My niece the artist."

"Well not a famous artist but an artist none the less," I said. "At least the new house will be organized."

Looking around we both started laughing. We knew that the house was cluttered from my parents but we actively avoided it. After we ate Aunt May and I cleaned up dinner and put the leftover's in the fridge. She said, "Well I have to get on and get the last of my classes chosen for this semester."

"I am going to go work in Mom's closet more," I said. "The boxes may look full but I have not made a dent yet. She has that closet stuffed."

Going upstairs I worked in the closet for for a while. After a few hours I decided to stop for the night and get ready for bed as I had work in the morning. Climbing into bed I fell asleep watching TV. 

*********************************************************************Going over to Mrs. Gardney's house that morning she opened the door with a smile and said, "Abigail I hope you had a good weekend?"

"I did," I said. "Did you eat this morning Mrs. Gardney?"

She nodded and said, "I did. I had oatmeal and I been making sure to rinse the bowls so its not much on you to wash them."

"Well let us talk while I clean the kitchen first," I said. "Have you been drinking water?"

She sighed and said, "Not as much as I should have dear."

Taking her arm I led her to the kitchen. Sitting her down I poured her a glass of water with lemon the way she likes it. Placing it next to her I said, "You need to drink Mrs. Gardney we do not want you to be hospitalized again. Your daughter will place you in a nursing home if you do not take care of yourself."

She sipped her water and I started to clean the kitchen as I said, "So your never going to believe this my parents owned a cabin in the state park."

"Really when did you discover that," She asked. 

"About a month ago," I said. "But I went there this past weekend. Its beautiful and except for a few small pieces of furniture it is empty."

"So what are you going to do sweetie?" She asked.

"I am going to move there after I graduate," I said. "But do not worry I will still work for you and make sure we keep you out of the nursing home. Now when is Nancy supposed to bring the groceries so I can make sure you have some meals ready."

"She called and said she was running late," She said. "Nancy should be here within the hour."

"Well lets look at what you have left in the pantry and fridge," I said. "How about I prepare you some of those roll up sandwiches you liked last time and a fruit and cheese plate for snacking. Then we will look at dinner when Nancy gets here."

I started preparing some food for Mrs. Gardney to eat and wrapped it with saran wrap for later. Seeing a package of muffin mix I also made her some muffins to snack on. As I was cleaning up Nancy came in with a few bags of groceries saying, "I am so sorry I am late Mom the boys were in a mood and took forever to get ready for camp this morning. Hello Abigail I am sorry I did not have everything ready for you."

"Nancy its alright there was plenty to choose from still," I said. "I made your mom her favorite wraps I make plus a fruit and cheese grazing board. When the timer dings her favorite blueberry muffins will be done. Speaking of time Mrs. Gardney price is right will be coming on in a few minutes. You want to get it on and I will bring you a big glass of water to drink."

Mrs. Gardney stood up and said, "Oh yes dear. I can't wait to watch it."

When we were sure she was out of ear shot Nancy said, "Thank you. Mom is no spring chicken and you are the only thing keeping her out of the nursing home. Will it be difficult to work when you start your senior year?"

"No I will come by as soon as school is over and we can tag team the weekends," I said. "Also I am in the work program this year so I will only need you to sign a paper that I work here every week so school ends at noon for me and I will be here by one at the latest."

She looked through to the living room and said, "I am worried she will not make it much longer. The doctor said she is starting to show signs of dementia."

Putting my hand on her arm I said, "We will make sure she is okay."

Still watching her Mom she said, "Has my mom ever mentioned her will to you?"

"No," I said. "Why?"

"She left me the house and a lot of money," She said. "But everything in it is yours. I know you have a lot going on with your house but I am glad she did that for you. You are like the Granddaughter she never had."

"Well I love her like a Grandma," I said. "But lets be positive and your mother will be around for years to come."

The timer went off and I took the muffins out of the oven while wiping a tear from my cheek. Nancy said, "We can only hope and you do such a good job of caring for her. So lets look over what I got to see if you want to prepare anything for dinner." 

Looking at the clock I said, "Well let me make your mom a lunch plate so she can enjoy it while watching Bob."

We both laughed as I put a small wrap and a muffin on a plate. Adding a cup of apple sauce I went to Mrs. Gardney and said, "Here is a plate to eat and a new glass of water I am sorting the groceries now."

She smiled and said, "Oh thank you its like I am on a date with Bob."

When I got to the kitchen Nancy said, "Over the weekend she had dinner with us and she loved the parmesan chicken, broccoli and tortellini I made. I picked everything up for that."

"Did you cut up the chicken into smaller pieces?" I asked.

"Yes and the broccoli," She said. "Mom was able to handle the tortellini."

"Okay and I see the Alfredo," I said. Taking out a pot I said, "Well I will get a small batch made so I can put in it bowls so she can heat it up. Oh tuna good I will make her a can and prepare tuna and cracker plates as well. If its made she will be more eager to eat. Also is there any Doctors appointments this week?"

"Yes we have one on Wednesday," She said.

"Alright I will make sure to do the deep cleaning then," I said. 

Nancy chuckled and said, "I am glad she left you the items. You know how full this house is and to be honest with you after picking up after the boys everyday I do not have it in me to do much more. But in all seriousness if mom was to get sick and pass before you graduate you will still be here a few hours a day working and going through things. Moms house is a bigger house and we would move here from our rental when the time comes. But like I said I hope its not for a very long time. Now what are your plans for the summer?"

I told her about the cabin and how my own parents were hoarders and my want to get the house cleaned out so I can sell it after I graduate. I promised her I would work for her and her mom as long as they needed me. We talked about the thrift store I was working with and she said, "Well I will definitely give you a letter of recommendation when the time comes and I know people who are jealous I have such a wonderful person helping Mom so I know we can find you more work when the time comes."

Nancy visited for a while longer and after I finished preparing some food I went through the house and straightened up. Around one thirty Mrs. Gardney said she was going to take a nap and after I showed her all the food that was prepared she promised she would eat and see me in the morning. I set some alarms for reminding her to eat and drink. At three I finished the last of what I was cleaning texted Nancy I was leaving and went back home.

Aunt May was out when I left but there was a note taped to the fridge saying she found someone who would do the lawn work and had the tools to do it and she would see me later tonight. Going back to my Parents room I continued on with the closet stacking boxes full of items I was selling in the corner.

When the box pile was larger than I would prefer I dragged them down to the truck. I took the items I wanted for the house and put them in the cab. Getting in the truck I went to the resale store and waited to speak to the owner. When I went inside there was a small line and when she was done she said, "Abigail it is so nice to meet you face to face. My name is Grace. Why don't you come to my office so we can talk."

Going into the office we sat down and she asked, "So you said you are sorting your parents estate and wanting to sell what your not keeping?"

Sighing I said, "After this morning I discovered it will be more than my parents estate. The woman I work for who I hope will last a long time also is leaving me her entire homes contents. But god willing she will be with us for years to come. Her daughter and I spoke today and when her time comes she gets the home and money. She is going to keep me on through graduation to clean out the home. As for my parents home I am slowly sorting it and seeing what I can keep and what I do not want anymore. My parents were hoarders in a sense and the house is full to the brim. I need to empty it to sell it."

"Where will you live?" She asked.

"My parents also owned a cabin in the state forest," I said. "With the exception of a pool table and minimal furniture which I already decided to keep because its all solid oak I will slowly be bringing things to the cabin when I have the time. That is actually my next stop after we are done. I decided to start with my Mom's closet and have a few baskets of clothes to bring there. I am an artist besides being a caregiver and I sell my art at Jimmy's. I know you have been there because you have a piece of mine in here."

She looked around her office and her eyes landed on the dolphin statue. She gasped and said, "A Langley is you?"

I smiled and said, "The very same. This weekend I will be setting up my art studio in the basement of the new cabin. I decided to get new cabinets and baskets to hold all my supplies. Plus an art table. I have two boxes at home with things to make into art already."

Smiling she said, "Well as you are cleaning out a full estate and hopefully not the second one for a long while you have two options. The first we can set you up your own sales area. You bring the items, we store and price them and then you get 70% of the profits. We price fairly and you just bring us the stock. The sales area are monitored by my team and we ensure the highest discretion. The second option is we store your stock and do online sales, you do the pricing and you get eighty percent of the sales. The second option is much slower."

"I think I would like to do the sales area," I said. "That way I can drop everything to you to handle. Being my senior year I do not want to have to worry about it. Especially if it goes to two estates."

"May I ask how you will handle two estates?" Grace asked.

"If my charge passes before the end of the year," I said. "I would work a few hours a day to prepare the home for her daughter to move in. So I would be cleaning everything out. Her floor plan is almost the same as my house." 

She nodded and said, "Plus school. I give you a lot of credit. When do you have time for your art?"

"I dedicate a hour a day to the current project," I said. "If cleaning out my house gets to be to much I take a break and go work on stuff."

"I hope then you have a calm year for school," She said. "Let us set up the paperwork and then we have three areas you can choose from for your section. After that you can come around back and I will get my staff to take what you have to start your store. Our intake time is from 7am till 6pm every night and we always give you a receipt for boxes or larger items. Any questions?"

"I have a bunch of clothes to start," I said. "Its easier to work on Mom's closet. Do I need to provide racks and hangers?"

"Not at all," She said. "We price and set displays when we hang things as we have racks and hangers. Since you got here early enough the evening crew will be setting you up tonight. Also Payments are done weekly. We send to cashapp, paypal or check."

"Oh I would love to do cash app," I said. "That way I can keep the money separated from the money I have from work and my social security I get from Mom and Dad."

She nodded and said, "We will do a dollar transfer now to make sure we have it correct. Can you confirm you received it?"

Pulling up my cash app I confirmed and she said, "Alright everything is signed. Let us go pick your store. I would suggest the biggest one as you have two estates."

We walked to the floor and she showed me the store she thought would be the best. She showed me the storage area behind it for the stock and the hallway that was for employees only. She had me drive to the back and I met Mary the intake woman. Once they got the items I had for sale out of my truck I was introduced to Larry who would oversee my store. He shook my hand and said, "A Langley are you related to the artist."

Grace was about to burst as she said, "Larry she is the artist!"

"Oh my I have your fire and ice piece in my entryway," He said. "My partner is going to be so jealous I met you and he didn't."

After I finished with the store I went to Walmart and purchased hangers for everything that still needed to be hung. Heading to the cabin I saw rain in the distance and thought I would see how  the house holds up in a storm. I unloaded the last basket as the rain started to fall. Sitting in the house I listened to the rain on the roof as I hung up the clothes and placed some items in the dresser. By the time I finished hanging things up the rain had stopped. Shutting off the lights I went out to the truck and headed home.

When I got home I saw Aunt May was home and when I came inside she was speaking to a young man. She looked up and said, "I was just going to call you. This is James and he is the one who would like to do the work for us."

Walking over I shook his hand and said, "Hello James. Sorry it took me so long I was running items to the cabin itself."

"James wants to offer us a deal," Aunt May said. "He wants to take pictures of his work for his business site and he will work for $10 an hour around his other jobs."

"That sounds like a good offer," I said. "How many hours a week would you be committing to?" I asked.

"Minimum ten hours a week. I would send you a picture of the land when I get there of where I am going to start," He said. "At the end of the day I would send you the completed pictures of what I have done."

"When would you like to see the property," I asked. 

"I can meet you there tomorrow at three if that is a reasonable time," He said.

Nodding I said, "That sounds good."

Taking a piece of paper I wrote the address down and said, "The gate is locked but I will get a spare key made on my way out there for you."

He left and I sat next to Aunt May saying, "Lets eat leftovers later."

She said, "Sounds good to me. How was your day?"

"How is your headspace?" I asked.

"That rough," She asked.

"That full," I said.

"Spill it kid," She said.

While we sat on the couch I told her about the conversation I had with Nancy and what would be my inheritance from Mrs. Gardney. Then I told her about setting up the store and dropping off items there and to the cabin. When I was done she chuckled and said, "Seems like you had a very busy day."

Standing up I said, "Very."

She said, "Well I have about an hour worth of homework to do for my summer classes. How about this since it was a heavy day why don't you go work in the room for a while and after dinner we will watch some YouTube travel videos and relax. I am sure you have some art project you can work on while we watch TV."

Laughing I said, "I am working on a crochet blanket for the next piece so yes that would be great."

She went to the table in the kitchen and said, "I will find you when I am done."

Walking up the stairs I looked in the closet and sighed, "Mom how did you find anything in here it is jammed packed."

Pulling out a suitcase I found she had a bunch of vintage clothes in it. Diving into what I was doing I had filled a few more boxes by the time Aunt May had found me. She helped me carry the keeps and sell to the truck. After I locked it up for the night we went inside and I ran up to the art room grabbing the basket of yarn I was using for the next project and placed it on a side table. Making a plate we sat on the couch and watched videos. After I finished eating I started working on the blanket which would be part of a new piece I was working on. When I started feeling tired we went to bed. 

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That night I had a horrible nights sleep. When I woke up the following morning I woke before my alarms went off. Since sound in the house traveled I grabbed two boxes and headed to the attic since it was still cool out. Going up the stairs I started to sort boxes in the attic. By the time my alarm went off I had a stack of sell boxes at the base of the stairs, a basket of supplies for art and a box to take to the cabin. Hearing Aunt May in the kitchen I brought down the keepers box to add to my truck. Aunt May looked at me and asked, "Are you alright?"

"Yeah I couldn't sleep," I said. "Since it was cool out I worked on the attic some. I am going to go put the keeper box in the truck and grab the boxes of selling from next to the stairs as well. I added the art supplies from the attic and moms room to the art room for now. I did not even dent the attic but found three boxes of yarn. So if this project goes well I will be making more of them."

"Well I am making breakfast so by the time you load your sell boxes we can eat," She said. "You still have an hour till you have to go to work."

Carrying the boxes to the truck I quickly loaded it looking at the sky you could see dark clouds in the distance. I hope that would clear up by the time I went to see James at the cabin. Going back inside I ate with Aunt May. She said, "I have a study group tonight so you are on your own for dinner."

"That's fine," I said. "Depending on how things go with James I may just pick up takeout and work on the attic if its cool enough or another room. It's hard to keep going through Mom and Dads closet."

Walking over to Mrs Gardney's house I let myself in and said, "Good morning Mrs. Gardney."

Walking out from her room, she said, "Hello dear."

"Are you alright you look tired," I asked.

She said, "I did not sleep well last night. I watched old movies most of the night."

"Do I need to call Nancy and see if they can get you into the Doctors early?" I asked.

"No," She chuckled. "No need to bother her. I had a muffin for breakfast and drank some water already."

"Did you eat after I left?" I asked.

She smiled and said, "Yes dear I did. I had some pasta and then a tuna plate."

"Do you want me to set you up so you can watch some TV," I asked. "I will get you a big glass of lemon water."

"Yes," She said. "That sounds good."

I straightened the area around her chair up and helped her sit. Going into the kitchen I texted Nancy to let her know what was going on. Making Mrs. Gardney a glass of water I went into the living room and gave it to her. She thanked me as I went to her room and straightened her bed. Doing light cleaning through the house I made sure she had plenty of food. When it was lunch time I offered to make her something and she said, "Abigail you know what I would like. Could we take a ride and get a shake and burger?"

"Sure," I said. "Let me go get the truck."

Leaving her in the living room I ran to my house to get my keys when I called Nancy. She picked up right away and said, "Is mom alright?'

"I offered to make her lunch and she said she wanted a shake and burger," I said. "She wanted to go for a ride. So I am gonna take her to Vinny's car hop and get her out for a while. Are you alright with that?"

"Of course," She said. "When its time for you to go home I am bringing the boys over to visit."

"She will like that," I said.

When I hung up I drove my truck over and we took a drive around town stopping at Vinny's. She said, "When I was your age this place was Carl's and its where I went on my first date with my husband. Do you know he has been gone twelve years?"

"You miss him?" I asked.

"Every day since he passed," She said. "I hope one day you find a young man that you will love like I loved my Pete."

"I am sure I will," I said. Placing our order she went to hand me her card and I said, "Nope, its my treat. We can have a friend date."

"Abigail," She said. "You are like the Granddaughter I never had. You know that right?"

Looking at her I said, "You have always been like a Grandma to me. Even after I sell my house after graduation I will still be there for you every day."

When the car hop brought our food I said, "Why don't we go for a ride while you eat? Where else did Pete take you on your dates?"

She told me a few other places Pete took her and as she ate I drove her to the places. When we got back to her house Nancy and the boys had pulled into the driveway next to us. She smiled and said, "Those boys remind me of Pete every day."

The boys all ran to the side of the truck and helped her out. As they walked her to the door and unlocked it for her Nancy came over and asked, "Its starting isn't it?"

Taking a breath I said, "Yeah it is. I took her to places her and your Dad would go on dates and she was lost in the memories. I am worried you may need to get a night nurse. Until school starts I can come over on the weekends a few hours in the morning just in case."

"No," She said. "Mom insists you keep your weekends. But a helper on the weekends and a night nurse may be the direction we are heading. We can talk to the Doctor in the morning about that."

Going inside I said, "Mrs. Gardney, I will see you in the morning. Make sure you sleep well tonight. You have plenty of food in the kitchen and fridge."

"See you tomorrow Abigail," She said.

Walking back to my truck I drove to the local locksmith to get a key made for James. Dropping off the sell boxes first, I drove to the cabin to meet James. When I pulled up I unlocked the gate and pulled into the driveway. While I waited for him to arrive I brought the items I decided to keep inside and put them away. Then I sat down and pulled up my phone and ordered the cabinets I wanted from Lowes and then I went online and found the art table I wanted.

When James pulled up I had everything ordered and ready to pick up that weekend. Walking over to him he looked up and said, "Well Abigail you do have a lot of work to be done. I see you have a outdoor wood box and wood shed. I will save you the wood for your fire place and if you get a fire pit. Do you want me to stack wood after?"

"With snows coming would it be better if the wood was stored to not get wet?" I asked.

"It would be," He said.

"Okay there is a covered patio in the back," I said. "The patio is covered and there is a wall that the wood could be stacked against and I can cover it with tarp."

"That sound like a plan," He said. "So I will be starting today since my afternoon appointment cancelled. I am going to start at the front of the property and I will remove all the debris as well."

"Alright I will order a tarp for the back porch for later--"

My phone started ringing and when I answered it was Aunt May, "Abigail are you at the cabin?"

"Yes," I said. "Is everything alright?"

"No," She said. "There is an ambulance next door."

"What?" I said.

"Sweetie come home," She said.

Hanging up I ran up the stairs and locked the door. James caught me and asked, "Abigail are you alright?"

"No I am not," I said. "The woman I help care for. There is a ambulance at her house. Aunt May called and told me to come home."

He steered me to the passenger side of the truck. He said, "My girl was napping and was going to stay here taking pictures. I am going to have her come back to your house. You are to upset to drive I will drive you home. Sit here I will be right back."

He walked over to his truck and I saw his girlfriend go to the drivers seat. When he got back he said, "Okay she is going to lock the gate and follow me. I will come back after and get to work."

When we pulled up to my road he pulled in my driveway and handed me the keys. He said, "I will text you later i got yours and mays phone numbers."

I thanked him and ran to Mrs. Gardney's house. When I went into the door Nancy was sitting on the couch with a chaplain and Aunt May. She looked up and said, "Abigail."

"What happened," I asked. "She was fine when I dropped her off."

The chaplain stood up and sat me next to Nancy. She took my hand and said, "She was talking with the boys and she told them she could not wait to tell their Grandpa all about them. She kissed each of them and closed her eyes. I came in and saw she was not breathing."

"She said the boys reminding her so much of your Dad," I said. "She told me stories that I cannot talk about in front of the Chaplain."

Everyone chuckled and Nancy said, "She went happy Abigail. You have made her so happy the last few years. We are going to have the funeral on Sunday afternoon after church. But we need to talk about your job. You know the house is mine and we are going to move in after the kids finish school next year. Everything in the house minus family pictures and documents are yours. Last week Mom gave me the few mementos she wanted me to have. Just keep an eye out for things that may have to come to me I know there are papers but I can't look. So lets do weekdays from 9-11 every day. Then during school we can switch it to the afternoon. I know you have a lot of work ahead of you. I am going to send your pay for this week when I get home Included is a bonus Mom had set aside for when this happened. You can work if you want or you can take off."

Chaplain said, "Nancy we will meet in the morning so we can go over all the arrangements."

Aunt May said, "Nancy if you need any help with the kids let us know."

Walking out Aunt May said, "Come on kiddo we are going to go inside and you need to rest."

We went inside and I went to my room and laid down. I pulled out my phone and ordered the tarp for the back porch. Laying in bed I put Practical Magic on and watched it when I heard a ding. Before I could check I saw Nancy calling.

"Hello," I said.

"Hey Abigail I just sent your pay," She said. "I also dropped off a pile of boxes and put them in the kitchen. I want to remind you to take your time on what you do. You have a full year to be done and I know you have your art and your house as well."

"Nancy are you alright?" I asked.

"No but I have been preparing for this for a while now," She said.

"How are the boy's?" I asked.

"They are processing their emotions," She said. "They were to young to remember when Dad passed. The adored my Mom and they will be processing this for a while."

"If you need anything you know to call me," I said. "If you want me to talk with them I can I know how they are feeling right now."

Nancy said, "I will tell them they can talk to you. They may want to because they think of you as the cool Aunt."

Chuckling I said, "Well tell them they can't get rid of me. Once I get the property safe Matt and you can come out and bring the boys to fish."

"Oh they will love that," She said. "You get your rest and I will come by and see you tomorrow. The bonus was from Mom Abigail. She said you can use it on supplies or for when you grow up."

We both hung up and I checked my cash app and called out, "Aunt May."

She came in and said, "Whats up."

"This is my pay with my bonus," I said. 

She took my phone and she said, "Nany had said it was a large amount. I did not expect ten thousand one hundred and forty dollars."

I said, "Nancy said that her Mrs Gardney had that put aside for when it was time. I feel less guilty for ordering my cabinets and art desk now."

She smiled and said, "When will they be ready?"

"Both will be ready after eight in the morning on Saturday," I said. 

"Then we will pick them up and get everything set up for you," She said. "I think by then you will have stuff ready to put in them. Did you get your baskets for your materials?"

"I did," I said. "Along with extra lighting."

I got another text and it was from James. He sent me pictures which I showed Aunt May and she said, "He does great work. Wow he almost filled the wood box that connects to the house. Where are you going to put the extra wood?"

Smiling I said, "Covered porch in the back of the house. I have a tarp order to cover it as well."

I sent him his pay via cash app and he replied, "All locked up and heading home. I may be here early tomorrow I will send you a text in the morning."

"Okay I may be out there if I fill my truck," I said. "Thank you again."

Standing up I went to my art room and started to work on my newest art project. I set an alarm for two hours. I threw myself into my work. When my alarm went off I finished what I was working on and Aunt May came into the room. 

Smiling she asked, "You feeling better?"

Sitting on my chair I said,  "A little. I just can't believe she is gone."

"Mrs. Gardney was something special," She said. "You know her husband and her lived there when you were born. The big purple teddy bear in your keep sake box was from them. The first week you were home Mrs. Gardney came over every day to clean the house so your Mom could get through her first week until Grandma Kay could visit and help your parents."

"I never knew that," I said. "She told me the day she passed that she has always thought of me like a Granddaughter."

"Well now you know why," She said. "You made her so happy the last few years. Come downstairs I ordered us a pizza for dinner."

After we sat down Aunt May asked, "So what now? Are you going to work this week."

"Yes I am," I said. I have two houses that I need to go through and in a few week I start school again. So I know here I will be slowing down cleaning out the houses. I want to get her house done as soon as I can. That way Nancy and Matt can make the changes and repairs that they need to do before they move in."

Nodding she said, "Smart. Which room in her house are you going to start in?" 

Sighing I said, "Probably Pete's closet. Once in a while she would have me go in there and look for things. I know there are a few items I want from there like flannels and a few men's sweaters. Depending on what I get done there and here tomorrow I may run out things to the cabin. I want to get some sales because I will have to get snow tires for my truck this year because they are calling for a lot of snow."

Aunt May groaned and said, "Oh man I am not looking forward to it."

Laughing I said, "Let's just bask in the sun for now and we will enjoy the winter when we can."

When we finished eating and cleaning up the kitchen I went upstairs and took a shower. Laying in bed I put Practical Magic back on and watched until I fell asleep.

************************************************************************

My alarm kept going off and I rolled over to slap it. Sitting up I looked around and realized that today I would be in the house alone. Walking over to my art studio I checked my piece I was working on and made sure it was drying well. After I checked the piece I went downstairs and filled my water bottle. Grabbing my car keys and a stack of boxes and headed over to Mrs. Gardneys house. Backing into the driveway I made sure I had room in the truck opening the back of the truck. My phone dinged and James sent a picture of where he was working on the property and he messaged, Was running late but here now and getting to work.

As I was about to walk inside Nancy pulled in. I waited until she parked and when she got out I asked, "How are you doing today?"

She chuckled and said, "About the same as you."

We walked inside and she said, "Its weird her not being here."

"I know I want to set up her chair and put on Bob," I said.

Looking around she said, "You have so much work ahead of you. I never realized how much her and Dad had."

"I understand I have been working on Mom's closet for the last week," I said. "I had to stop and switch rooms because everything reminded me of her. After Saturday it will be easier."

"Why is that?" She asked.

"On Saturday I am picking up the cabinets and new art table for the studio at the cabin," I said. "Once I get it set up I can bring the supplies I find while sorting each house. You may see random baskets in the room I am working in. I will find a container for anything I find that you will need to go through. That's where all the pictures and family things you need to sort. If you are going to shred anything please keep the paper shreds for me. I ask only because I am making home made recycled paper for a project."

"How about this," She said. "Anything I do not take home I will put in a store bag so you can shred it at home. Also in the bag if there are items you think I may want and if I do not I will leave them in the bag as well. So where are you starting?"

"Your Dads closet," I said. "I think it will be the easiest place for me to start."

She smiled and said, "Good idea. But fair warning check every pocket and bag. Mom and Dad always left things in their pockets. Also if you find money its yours's."

Nodding I walked into the laundry room and grabbed three laundry baskets. Tapping labels one said Nancy, One said Art, one said Cabin. Grabbing the boxes I went in and labeled it store. Nancy came in and said, "You are very organized."

Laughing I said, "I have to be. Also I figured if i get the master suite done first you and Matt can start in here after I am done in the rooms with repairs, painting or remodeling if you plan to. I know with the boys it may be difficult but its a start."

She nodded and said, "We were thinking about that. That would help us out time wise. I know it has to be difficult for you as well."

"I dread when school starts here I have work," I said. "But at home its going to be difficult."

Going into the closet she took out a dress and said, "Well I will be getting out of here I have to get Moms funeral dress and shoes. She picked this out a while ago."

"Her party dress," I said. "Well I am setting my timer for two hours. When I leave I will leave your basket on the kitchen table. Take your time with that though I can always use the laundry baskets and if I see a bag of items in the basket I will know that you did not want the items."

Setting the timer I opened the closet and said, "Wow Pete you liked clothes."

The closet was packed with items. I grabbed a chair and placed the first box on it. Pulling a second chair I lifted a big box from the middle of the closet. Opening it I laughed and found a bunch of shirts and jackets. Sorting everything I found a few that I like and I did check the pockets. When I filled the first box and moved to the second to fill. At the end of the first hour I brought our the first pile of boxes. Coming back in I kept sorting Pete's closet. When my alarm went off I brought the box if items for the store to my truck. Moving Nancy's basket to the kitchen table I grabbed my basket. Locking the front door I moved my truck to my driveway, grabbing my basket that had room left I went inside.

Heating up some pizza from the night before I looked around the house. Sighing I said, "This is a lot of work I have to do. All four of you were packrats."

After eating I went back to my parents suite and went to Dads side of the closet. I placed my keep basket and grabbed a box. Opening his closet I sighed as Dad was just as much of a pack rat as Mom. Setting my alarm for four hours I got to work. As I sorted and checked pockets I filled boxes and added a few things to my keep box and a basket I had in the room for art supplies. When my truck was full in the bed I drove over to the store. 

Pulling into the area for drop off's Mary said, "Afternoon Abigail. You have some goodies for us."

Laughing I said, "You are going to hate me soon as this is going to be two households coming in."

Grace was walking past as I said that and she said, "Oh Abigail did your charge pass? I am so sorry to hear that."

Sighing I said, "She passed yesterday. I started the clean out there today. She was as much as a pack rat as my parents were."

Grace sighed and said, "Well if you want to lock the cab you can come with me and see the set up."

"Sure," I said. "I am working closets so your going to be getting a lot of clothes. Todays batch is a lot of nice men's things. Starting this upcoming week my schedule is monday through friday I will be working in the morning at my charges house. Come home have lunch and work on my home till around four or until I fill my truck. Then home and art. After this weekend my new studio is going to be set up and all new supplies will be going to the cabinets, a stack of totes or into the storage in my new art table. I am working on a new line called a loving hug. I am making crocheted blankets and crystalizing them after I form them to a stand I made. Then I also have a few plaster planters I am making with old clothing and sheets. I have a large piece going now that is four feet and will hold five plants when it is done."

"Do you have a Instagram?" She asked. "I would love to see what kind of projects you have going."

"I do," I said. "Its under the name of A Langley. I believe the last picture was the crystallization bin and the crystals forming on the blanket. Its a clear see through bin."

As we went around the corner Larry greeted me and he said, "Abigail I just put out more of your items. A lot of the clothing you had started to sell."

"Well that's a good thing as I just dropped off men's clothes," I said. "Wow this looks great Larry."

Grace said, "Larry she does have a Instagram. Its under A Langley and look at the crystal project she has started."

Larry pulled up the Instagram and asked, "Is that a Granny square blanket?"

"Yes it is," I said. "I made the blanket and formed it on a wire frame and them placed it in the bin. As I added the mix I made sure the blanket was shaped correctly. Now we wait. I am found some teddy bears so I may make some bears with a blanket if this goes well. When I get home I have to drain the box and add more mix to the liquid."

Larry asked, "How do you do that?"

Smiling I said, "Do you see how the box is sitting on the chair?"

"Yes," He said. 

"At the bottom of the clear tote is a plug and whole," I said. "If this works out I will be doing the bears and blankets over the weekend."

"Well I am following you now so I cannot wait to see what happens," he said.

We heard thunder and I said, "Well I am glad that I am not going out to the cabin tonight. After I replace the liquid in the crystal bin I plan on eating dinner and working on the bears and blankets."

I walked back to my truck and Mary said, "It was only the covered bed right?"

"Yes," I said. "The cab holds my stuff to go to the cabin. But since its only two baskets I can add more still."

"Well," She said. "Sign here and I am sure I will see you tomorrow. Remember on the weekends we are only open till two on Saturday and Sunday."

"Thank you," I said. Getting into my truck I went to the house. 

When I got home I went to the art studio and emptied the crystallization liquid. Checking the piece I found it hard and solid. But the crystals were a bit smaller then I liked. Adding more crystal mix to the water I drained. Plugging up the bin I took a picture and added the mix. placing the more shallow bin on the table with the plug hanging over the edge of the table I opened the cabinet and found four miniature teddy bears and yarn to compliment each of the bears. Placing them in a basket with a crochet needle I headed downstairs. Placing a pan of fries in the oven I put hot dogs in a pot on the stove. While the fries cooked I sat down and posted the new updates to Instagram. Taking a picture of the supplies for the new bears with blankets I added that with descriptions of what's to come. 

My phone dinged and James sent me a message that said 7.75 hours and what do you think? It was followed by a bunch of pictures and the last two showed the wood box full and the wood shed starting to fill up. I sent him his pay and messaged, You are a rock star.

He replied, Not a rock start but this is the easier areas. When I get further back its going to get more difficult as you have a lot of limbs down. I will be back here after I cut a few lawns in the morning.

I got up and put the hot dogs on as the fries were almost done. Going back to the couch I sat down and started a blanket to match the green teddy bear while I watch some You tube. Getting up I made my plate as Aunt May came home. 

She smiled and said, "Hey kid how was your day?"

"Good," I said. "Worked. Came home and started Dads closet. Went to the store and dropped off a full bed full and now its food and I am working on some new pieces to crystalize because the big one I have forming is solid but I want larger crystals. These four are going to be smaller fine crystals."

"You do have your Mom's talent," She said. "Well I am going to take it you are using up the old supplies first?"

"Yes," I said. "I found things in Dads closet I want to use as well as at Mrs. Gardney's house. But it has to stay here until I get the cabinets and table in on Saturday. Then all the new stuff will be brought in sorted and left at the new house. I have plenty of supplies in the art room for now."

"I would say so," She said. "You have like thirty bins. Are you pacing yourself?"

"I am," I said. "Work in the morning. Then after lunch I clean out until I fill the rest of the truck. Then to the store, gallery if I have anything completed, Cabin if I have enough and back home to work on art. A lot of my upcoming pieces will be crystalized or plaster as I have a lot of items. That and I plan on working on some jewelry art pieces as well. If I am in a mood I can work on a bigger project. The planter I am working on is slow with drying due to the humidity so its smaller items for now."

"Well I am going to make a sandwich and do some homework," She said. "I may join you in the living room while I do it."

The rest of the night we sat in the living room and worked on what we had to. When I couldn't stay awake any longer I placed my basket on the coffee table and went to bed. I collapsed in bed and fell asleep before my head hit the pillow."

*******************************************************************

I woke up the next morning to a rainstorm. Sighing I said to myself, "Figures."

After I took a shower I went downstairs and filled my water bottle. Aunt May came down and she said, "Lets hope its not like this in the morning when we pick up your cabinets and table."

"Well the cabinets are plastic," I said. "The totes will be fine and the art table will be in a box."

"Good," She said. "Do you plan on going to the cabin today?"

"Not sure," I said. "It depends on what I find when I clean out the house today."

"Okay well be careful I will be at school until after ten tonight," She said. "Don't worry about my meal today I will probably grab something at the cafe on campus."

"Alright," I said. "Love you."

"Love you too," She said.

When she left I grabbed my keys and water bottle and headed to my truck. Backing into Mrs. Gardney's driveway I went inside. The basket had a few items in a bag and the rest were in a bag along with papers to shred. There was also a note that said, "My mom kept everything there are three stacks of laundry baskets in the garage. Don't waste your boxes use those first."

Laughing I went into the garage and found the baskets. Bringing a stack to the master bedroom I set my timer and got to work. I was halfway through my day when the power flickered. A minute later the lights went out. Sighing I grabbed what I had sorted for the store and switched the switch off. Going into the garage I grabbed more baskets and labeled two and grabbed the Nancy basket. Opening the garage door I got to work in the over filled garage. Opening the first bin and found old blankets. I made quick work of sorting the blankets and filled my bed of my truck. Finding more linens and blankets I continued to sort until the timer went off. As I went to go back in the lights came back on. Making sure I had the baskets combined and I put the new Nancy basket on the table. Since my basket was not full I left it on the bed till Monday along with the art supplies. Shutting the garage door I locked the door and went out the main door locking it behind me. 

Driving back to my house I made sure everything was stacked and went inside with the bag from Nancy. A few items were items I could use for art creations and some went to the next box for the store. I went into the office and shredded the papers for a home made paper project I want to try. I added all the shredded paper to the plastic containers I was storing them in. I added the full container to the crafting supplies bin. Eating a hot pocket I went to my parents room and got to work. 

After I had worked on the house till three I filled the truck with what I could. I added my items to the cab. Mary made a quick job of checking in my items. Before I left she said, "You first payment will be sent to you by tomorrow afternoon. Will we see you over the weekend?"

"No," I said. "In the morning I am setting up my art studio and then on Sunday we have the funeral. I will probably be working on my art most of the weekend."

"Well we all follow your Instagram," She said. "We love seeing your updates."

I waved and stopped at Mack's Cheesesteaks. Ordering a cheese steak and fries I sat waiting for my to go order. While I was waiting the popular kids came in and the football jock saw me and said, "Look at the freak guys."

Mack looked at me and said, "So how is the property cleaning going?"

"It's good Mack," I said. "The guy I hired has made great progress and as I sort mine and Mrs. Gardney's houses I bring more of my stuff over. I am setting up my new art studio there this weekend before the funeral." 

"She was a special lady," He said. "I saw Nancy yesterday and she said your working on the house now?"

"Yeah I guess besides artist I am now estate sorter," I said. "But I have found a lot of stuff for new projects. After I am done here I m going back to work on some projects. That and the funeral this weekend."

The head cheer leader says, "Oh freakie did another person die?"

Mack's head snapped up and he said, "You keep that shit up you don't have to be served. Have some respect this girl is famous in the art world and what you have 5 seconds of fame on your game nights?"

The cheerleader sneered and said, "She is not famous."

Mack said, "Google new art piece featured in the capital garden."

I tried to hold a smirk in and the jock said, "Okay its a statue that the governor's wife found at a small town art store. Its the most popular piece in the garden tours by some upcoming artist named A. Langley."

Mack said, "You idiot A Langley is Abigail."

Looking at Mack I asked, "Which piece is that? The governor's wife bought three other pieces."

He chuckled and said, "The brown bear planter."

"Oh," I said. "She brought a beaded art piece last week for inside the mansion."

The cheerleader looked at me as Mack handed me my food. "So what you got a hundred a piece? That is so much money. Ohhh."

Laughing I said, "The bear statue in the north garden sold for 8500. The beaded vase for inside the mansion was 2500. The eagle planter sold for 15000 and the dancing gnomes for 3300. Sweetie I do not need to whore myself out to survive I have a natural talent. I make more in one week than you could make in a year. At least I know I have a job after I graduate."

She got a pissed look on her face as Mack said, "I will see you at the funeral on Sunday Abigail."

Waving I went out the door and headed home. When I got home I went inside and sat down to watch more videos. Putting my leftovers in the fridge. Going up to the art studio I checked the plaster piece. It should be dry by the following night. The crystalized piece was forming larger crystals and by the end of the weekend it should be ready to dry.  Looking into the crates I saw that I was filling them nicely. Heading back downstairs I worked on the bears with the blankets as I chilled watching the videos. 

When Aunt May walked in she said, "Can't sleep?"

"It has been an interesting day," I said. "I went to Mack's to get dinner. Those bullies walked in and started mouthing off to me. Mack let them have it telling them I am famous already and they couldn't hold a candle."

She looked up and said, "Good they are spoiled little shits. Their siblings go to the college and want no future. They will beg for jobs in the future. Well what time do you want to leave in the morning?"

"The stores will be open at 8am," I said. "After we get the items and to the cabin it should take about two to three hours to get the table and cabinets put together."

"Alright I will set my alarm," She said. "So I locked up behind me already and am heading to bed."

Smiling I said, "Your good I will be going to bed in a while."

I watched Aunt May go up the stairs and finished the third bear. Looking at the clock I saw it was only nine-thirty. Working on the blanket for the fourth bear I heard rain start. When I finished the last bear I shut the TV and lights off. Going into the art room I placed the blankets in different poses around the bears. Mixing the crystallization mix I started pouring it in the bin. Stopping periodically to shape the blankets if they change I finished filling everything. Placing the lid on the container I checked the big crystal blanket and would have to check on it before we leave as it looks like the crystals are the height I want them to be. Taking the third case I have, I laid fake flowers I had for a upcoming project. If I have to empty the main project I can reuse the mix and start the flowers. Taking a few more pictures to add to my Instagram and headed to my room.

Grabbing my water bottle I went into my room and showered. Climbing into bed I added the pictures I took and answered some comments on my previous posts. Closing my eyes I went to sleep looking forward to going to the cabin in the morning.

********************************************************************************

I woke up to the alarm going up feeling excited. Getting out of bed Aunt May came past and I called out, "I will get us Chick Fila for breakfast."

"Sounds good," She called out.

Walking to the art room I emptied the large piece I was working on and slowly added the mix to the bin with the flowers. Once the flowers were covered I placed the bucket under the large bin to catch anything else that may drip out so the piece may dry.

Putting on stretchy clothes I went downstairs with my bag. I found Aunt May downstairs putting her sneakers on. My phone dinged and I saw a message from James saying he was out there working and sent a picture of where he was starting. Sending him a message we will see him out there I turned to Aunt May and said, "Ready?"

"Sure am," She said. We locked the house and headed to the art store first. Once the table was loaded into the truck I drove over to Lowes. We pulled up for the online order pick up and I gave the two order numbers. The workers loaded the cabinets, baskets, lights, tarp and small carts for my supplies. When everything was in the truck we went to Chick Fila for breakfast and ate our food as we were on our way out to the cabin.

Driving out to the cabin we pulled in and saw James work on the property. He saw us and came over. Looking at everything in the truck he said, "Let me help you get this in."

All three of us brought everything down to the basement and I handed James a chicken biscuit and said, "Thank you. Oh I am going to hang the tarp multi pack on the door to the porch."

He nodded and said "That works I can do layers with the tarps to make sure everything stays dry. Especially with the snow they are saying we will get this year. Their predicting massive blizzards. Also I have something for you."

He went into his truck and pulled out a crate. Inside was wood with bark circles in various sizes. He said, "I check all the wood as I go. But I thought you could create something with these. But I would let them sit in your cabinet for a while."

"Oh wow," I said. "Thank you James. I love doing wood burning so these would be great!."

He nodded and said, "Well I will keep an eye out for more. Thank you for the biscuit and I am getting back to work."

Carrying the crate downstairs Aunt May was sitting and eating. She saw the wood and said, "Oh that was nice of James I know you love wood burning."

Smiling I said, "Once these dry out they will be perfect. So I want to place the tall cabinets in the corner near the stairs The smaller cabinets will be on the outer wall. The table in the middle with the carts next to the smaller cabinets." 

As we started to put the cabinets together. When I had all the small cabinets put together I placed the cut oak table top I ordered. Since Aunt May was putting the taller cabinets together I started the art table itself. By the time I finished putting together the art table Aunt May said, "Your better than this then me."

Laughing I said, "Nah I always helped Mom and Dad." 

Placing the forty baskets on the smaller cabinets I took the first one and filled them with the large wood circles James gave me. Filling up two baskets I added them to the larger cabinets. Leaving a small handful of wood in a basket next to the stack I decided I would not add the baskets to the cabinet unless its full and I can sort all the supplies as I go. When Aunt May finished she said, "This is a great set up your Mom would have been jealous."

Chuckling I said, "I know. So now that this is done and since its raining I am going to work on Dads closet and Mom's closet."

When we went to leave I said to James, "Your doing a great job we are heading out."

He waved and we got in the truck. Aunt May said, "Do not feel bad about loading your truck or going to bring stuff to the store tomorrow before the funeral. I will drive us and then on Monday you continue on at both houses."

Smiling I said, "At least I will not be waiting around dreading the funeral."

"Good," She said. "Now tonight I am going to bake a lasagna with a salad and garlic bread. I want you to relax do you art or clean out the closet. Just remember whatever you put in the cab of the truck has to wait till Monday unless you get up at the ass crack of dawn."

When we got home I grabbed a few of the boxes we had in the living room. Heading upstairs I made the piles for art, keep and sell. Opening up the closet I continued to sort and pack everything up. I decided to bring two boxes down at a time to my truck. By the time Aunt May came up to tell me an early dinner was done I had gotten more than halfway through Dads closet. 

Sitting down in the kitchen Aunt May said, "You want to crochet your squares and watch TV after we clean up dinner?"

"That sounds like a great idea," I said. "I didn't fill the full truck bed but I am still going to drop off items to the store in the morning." 

My phone binged and I chuckled as I said, "Well I just got paid for what sold so far."

Aunt May looked up and asked, "Good sales?"

Looking at her I said, "Six hundred dollars. I will not complain about that."

"Well that is nice for only for a few days," She said. "Your smart with spending so I do not worry about you. That why I let you handle the utility bills and make the payments."

"You have taught me how to take care of myself," I said. "At least I am not going into the real world not knowing what to do."

Aunt May said, "Why don't you get the TV set up and grab drinks. I will grab the bag of chips and popcorn."

The rest of the night Aunt May and I watched videos. She worked on notes and I worked on the newest blanket to crystalize. When we went to bed that evening I sat looking at Mrs. Gardney's house and dreaded tomorrow. Looking at the moon above her house I said, "I hope your up in heaven with Pete and visiting my parents. You were as much as a Grandma to me as my parents own Mom's were. I will keep an eye on Nancy and the boys. Go get a shake with Pete now."

****************************************************************************

That night I did not sleep well. By six in the morning I was up and made sure my clothes were ready for the funeral. Since I did not want to wake Aunt May I went down to the basement and sorted some boxes until the store opened to drop everything off. Taking out a few more boxes to my truck I headed to the store and found Larry accepting drop offs.

He looked up and said, "Abigail I am surprised to see you here so early."

"Hi Larry," I said. "I couldn't sleep last night. Today is Mrs. Gardneys funeral."

He sighed and asked, "Are you alright?"

"To be honest with you," I said. "Not really. I started clearing her house and its so weird being in there without her."

"I understand sweetie," He said. "When my mom passed I had to clear her house and she was a hoarder. Every time I would go in I expected her to call out look what I got. We just finished clearing out the house six weeks ago and are remodeling it to move into. No more rent for me."

Chuckling I said, "That's what her daughter will be doing in the next year. I started in the master suite so they could get that done."

He opened the back of my truck and said, "What kind of goodies do you have for me today."

"More stuff from my Dad's closet and some items from the basement," I said. "I was surprised I found some old tiles and things to add to my new supply cupboards and carts at the new house. I am determined to use up the supplies I have at the new house. I have three crystal projects in the soak now."

"I saw the pictures last night," He said. "That big piece is beautiful. Not my style but beautiful. When is the nest art show?"

"The third weekend in June," I said. "I have 1 full crate and another half crate full of pieces I am working on. I am hoping to get more done before the show. Normally I try to get two crates done between shows but with everything going on it may not happen."

"Do not over do it," Larry said. "Matt and I are trying to get tickets to this upcoming or the next show."

"Well then we will walk around for a while," I said. "But I need to get back and get ready for the funeral."

He opened my truck door and said, "Keep calm Abigail. You got this."

When I got home Aunt may was in the kitchen drinking a cup of tea. She asked, "Did you get any sleep last night?"

"Not much," I said. "It was hard knowing what today is. It's almost like reliving Mom and Dad's funeral."

She nodded and said, "Remember Mrs. Gardney lived a full life and she went on her own terms. She was happy Abigail and did not have to go to a funeral home."

"I know," I said. "It doesn't mean I won't miss her. I guess its time to go get ready?"

Aunt May nodded and said, "It is."

I got ready and when I was done the doorbell rang. Going to the door I found Nancy. Opening my arms she hugged me and said, "Could you come over to the house for a few?"

Nodding I said, "Sure can."

We went outside and walked across the path I made in the lawn. We went inside and I asked, "How are you holding up?"

She chuckled softly and said, "I knew this was coming but it hurts. It feels like she is still here doesn't it?

Nodding I said, "It does. I am waiting for her to call out and ask for me to put Bob on."

She laughed and said, "I wanted to talk to you about something. Would you mind starting in the basement if its not to hot? Matt wants to set that up as a work shop and it would be easier for him to do the remodeling if he started down there."

"Of course," I said. "Just let Matt know if its to hot I will not be able to. I worked in my basement this morning and it was horrible hot out as can be by the time I took things at 7 to the store."

"Oh he will be alright with that," She said. If you can get a way to the first outer wall he is going to put in a AC unit to help. Just keep me posted."

"Of course," I said. "I will start down there tomorrow. I am trying to find balance now. Here, my house, and working on stuff for the upcoming shows."

"What are you doing with the items you find to craft with?" She asked.

"All new supplies go to the cabin," I said. "I am bound and determined to empty the craft room as much as I can before I move and start with all new supplies."

She smiled and said, "Well that is a good goal. I cannot wait to see what you do with the items you find here. Also the toys in the boys room. They have outgrown most of it now I will bring them by tomorrow while your here to get what they wanted from the room."

"Well you answered the last question I was going to ask," I said. 

She looked at her watch and said, "I guess I have to get to the church. Sit by us will ya."

"I sure will," I said.

We walked out of the house and Nancy locked up. I went back over to my house and met Aunt May in the kitchen. She looked up and asked, "Everything alright?"

"Yeah," I said. "Nancy wanted to put a request in for my cleaning out the house. Also I think she needed a moment before the funeral."

"You ready to go then?" She asked.

"Yeah let me get my bag," I said.

Walking upstairs I grabbed my bag and went into the art room for a moment. Looking at the completed piece I realized that I would be ready to crate it when I got home. Sighing I shut the light off and went downstairs to join Aunt May. 

********************************************************************

When we pulled up to the church I smiled and said to Aunt May, "I am so glad that there are so many people here for the funeral. Mrs. Gardney would have been pleased to know so many people loved and cared for her."

Aunt May nodded and we went into the church. We made our way up to the front and found Nancy and the boys. Taking seats behind them we didn't have to wait long for the service to start. The service was beautiful and when it ended the pastor invited everyone to the fellowship hall for a remembrance lunch. As we walked over to the hall Nancy caught us and said, "Abigail I hate drama and will be the buffer but my cousin Larry is here and thinks he was entitled to my Mom's things. He barely ever saw her. Please do not ever let him in the house He has sticky fingers and he would steal anything you set aside for me to go through or stuff for you."

Nodding I said, "Well I guess when I am sorting I will keep my truck locked up at both the houses. I would suggest though if he is squawking about things maybe you and Matt may want to install some security cameras."

Matt came up and said, "I think you're right about that Abigail. Larry is in the corner with his Mom and he is shooting daggers at you and Nancy. His Mom is not pleased either saying that was her cousin and they are entitled. Abigail when we come over in the morning we may be underfoot I am going to get security cameras set up."

Nodding I said, "No worries. I will try starting in the basement tomorrow but if it is to hot I may have to go back to Pete' s closet. I was working in my basement this morning and it was way to hot after an hour."

He nodded and said, "I understand if we have to hold off until there is cooler temps we will just let us know."

After spending time with the family we gave our goodbyes and went out to the car. As we got into the car Larry approached us. He said, "Your the conniving little shit my cousin left everything to."

Smiling I said, "You must be Larry. I am sorry we never met when you must have visited. I have been working for your cousin since I was fourteen five days a week and I never saw you."

He looked at me and Matt came out and said, "Abigail are you alright?"

"Sure thing Matt," I said. "Larry was calling me a conniving little shit and I said I never met him in all the years I worked for Mrs. Gardney. Also as I knew her since I was born and she used to watch me as a child I am really surprised that we never met with all the visits he must have made. You should be ashamed thinking you are entitled to anything with her or Nancy when you never paid her the time of day."

Larry started clenching his fists as Matt came over and stood in front of me saying, "Larry man don't do this. Crila had her will set in stone for a long time and Abigail has been a family friend since the day she was born. You and your Mom want something that you were never entitled to and you are not going to harass her or Nancy for anything. Crila gave the things she wanted away well before she passed and if you or your Mom did not get anything it was because she did not want you to have it. Be the bigger an and take your Mom home and leave everyone alone."

Larry said, "We will get our fair share Matt and you will not be able to stop us."

Matt laughed and said, "That's fine we have security camera at the house and I am adding more inside and out after the funeral. I will also be having the police involved once I get Nancy and the boys home. If you want to do more jail time please try."

Larry stomped away and Matt asked, "Do you have security cameras?"

Aunt May said, "Old ones. We do not have them active but we may have to get them back up."

Matt nodded and said, "I will be over later and if I do not get them done today I will help you guys set them up tomorrow."

Abigail Langley- Main 

Aunt May- Secondary

Mrs. Crila Gardney- neighbor she works for (Nancy/Matt-daughter)(Pete/husband)

James lawn man

Grace- sales person* Mary intake* larry sales specialist

Jimmy's

June 23S4 July 123S4 August 123S4 Sept 123S4 Oct 123S4 Nov 1S23S4 Dec 1S234 Jan 12S34 Feb 1S23S4 Mar 12S34 April 12S34 May 12S34 June 123S4

My home:

Basement, attic, kitchen, pantry, laundry room, Entry way, Front closet, Dining room, Kitchen, breakfast nook, office, library, downstairs hall closet, tv room, living room. downstairs hallway. Stair well 1, landing, stair well 2, master bedroom, moms closet, dads closet, master bath, baster bath closet, my room, my closet, my bathroom, guest room 1, guest room 1 closet,  guest room 2, guest room two closet, guest bathroom, top floor hallways, linen closet, top floor hall closet, art room, aunt mays room, aunt mays closet, aunt mays bathroom. garage

Mrs. Gardney Home-

Basement, attic, kitchen, pantry, laundry room, Entry way, Front closet, Dining room, Kitchen, breakfast nook, office, library, downstairs hall closet, tv room, living room. downstairs hallway. Stair well 1, landing, stair well 2, master bedroom, 1 closet, 2 closet, master bath, baster bath closet, my room, my closet, my bathroom, guest room 1, guest room 1 closet,  guest room 2, guest room two closet, guest bathroom, top floor hallways, linen closet, top floor hall closet, Garden room, kids room, kids closet, kids bathroom. garage