Jessica's Story - Part 24 free porn video

Jessica's Story -Part 24 Julia was wondering what to do. The half term break was here and she had got 4 children to entertain for the course of the week. With Anne at work, and Sally and Carol spending the week in Newcastle visiting John, she had her hands full. "I'm not taking them out every day," she said. "We don't have the money, and it's finding places to visit." "Well, you don't have to spend money," said Helen. "There are museums that are free to go in." "Were," said Julia. "Birmingham city council have put admission charges on most of their museums now." "I remember the science museum they used to have," said Helen. "Michael and I used to take the boys there when they were young. That was free to go in." "I barely remember it, but they moved most of it to that Thinktank mueseum. Hate to think how much it costs to go in," said Helen. "Well, there isn't much around. Dudley Zoo has been poor for years," said Julia. "The Sealife Centre is extortion, and the Black Country Museum isn't cheap either." She had further discussions with Anne in the afternoon (Monday), once her partner was back from work. "I can't help being at work," sighed Anne. "Someone needs to bring the money in. But just take them out, anywhere. The further, the better, as it will lessen the chance of you bumping into Pam." "Oh, and what should I say if I do have the misfortune to bump into her?" asked Julia. "Tell her that I've given you permission to take my children out while I'm at work," replied Anne. "Oh, and didn't we invite the other girls around one day this week?" "Oh yeah, I think it was Thursday," said Julia. "Ok, so that day is sorted," said Anne. "But as I said, just take them out, even if it means walking around shops all day." The children had been spending both Sunday and Monday playing at home. They were keen to go out somewhere, though the hairdressers was not on their list of preferred destinations. With Sandra and Kelly agreeing to not grow their hair further until Jessica's hair was of equal length to theirs, a new schedule had been arranged. Jessica would only have her hair trimmed every 3 months while Sandra and Kelly would have their hair trimmed monthly. With Monday out of the reckoning, Julia decided to make the first outing for the following day: Tuesday. It was going to be a trip into Birmingham city centre, just for the sake of plenty of shops. But finding shops that suited the children's tastes wasn't easy. Though the girls were interested in clothes stores, they did want toy stores too, and that was where the problem came in. "So, The Entertainer, Build-a-bear-Workshop, and Modelzone," sighed Julia. "I would have thought there might have been more in the way of toy shops." Modelzone hadn't been much use. They had only gone inside because Edward had noticed toy trains in the window. But these were sort for older boys, and adults: electric trains. Edward was intrigued at the model layout on display. He was also thrilled at the sight of large models of Thomas and Percy. They were large scale electric models for use outdoors. Julia was glad to get out, before Edward's wish list became too long. Argos and TK Maxx offered more toys, as did House of Fraser (a department store.) "Can we go back to that teddy shop?" asked Jessica. "I want to make a teddy!" Julia sighed. Her purse was under threat of being drained, and there was still plenty of days to go. "Yes mommy, can we have a teddy bear?! Please!!!" said Kelly and Sandra, joining Jessica. "Do you want to go out later in the week?" replied Julia. "Yes," they replied. "I need to save some money for then," said Julia. Three girls looked disappointed. Julia just wanted to walk away, as their faces were desperate. "Ok, you can have a teddy each!" she said, relenting. "Edward, do you want a teddy too?" "A boy teddy?" he replied. "Yes, a boy teddy," sighed Julia. "Ok, but no clothes, not now." They arrived back at the Build-a-Bear Workshop and went about selecting their teddies. Julia was looking at the prices, hoping that they didn't choose a pricey one. With other animals available, there was always a chance that they could go for a dog or cat, but they all chose bears eventually. Edward stuck to a caramel brown one, while the girls chose ones with more girly colours, such as pink and purple. After selecting their bears, they waited in the queue to have their bears filled. They all opted for medium amounts of filling that made their bears more cuddly. They also were told to place a fabric heart inside their bears, making a wish on them. Julia told them to pass on the sound boxes and straight to the person who was sewing the bears backs up. After that, Julia helped them all create birth certificates for their bears on a computer. With the birth certificates completed, they went to the tills to pay for them, and get their certificates. "You can get some clothes for your teddies another day," said Julia. "We'll go and get something to eat now, and then we can go home, ok?" The children were satisfied and went home happy. Their new teddies were all given a carry box shaped like a house, and this gave the girls some ideas. "We can colour the boxes with crayons and make them into houses for them," said Jessica. "Good idea sis," said Kelly. "What about you Edward?" "I might," he replied. He had taken his bear out and was giving it a hug. The girls joined him and took their bears out too. "I want to get Michelle a nice princess dress," said Jessica, who had named her teddy after her favourite cousin. "Perhaps at a later date," said Julia. * * * At home, the girls were all busy giving their new teddies lots of hugs. Jessica had called her lilac bear Michelle, while Sandra's magenta bear was called Sarah, and Kelly had named her yellow bear Katie. But it was Edward who drew some attention after he decided to call his bear Peter. No one mentioned it to him that that used to be Jessica's name, even Jessica herself. But Jessica didn't mind in the slightest. She had to agree that Peter was a nice name, but from her point of view, it was one she had never wanted. After giving their bears loads of hugs, and introducing them to their dolls, the girls got out a box of crayons and started colouring in the boxes. They were already decorated to look like houses, with sections that could be removed to make windows. In addition to the colouring, they wrote the bear's name on the box too. They were also all keen to show Anne their new friends when she got home. "Oh, you've got new teddies," said Anne, as the girls welcomed her, teddies in arms. "Ok, let me just get washed and I'll say hello to them. She did eventually sit down in the living room and said hello to the new bears. She did notice that Edward had one too. "So, you named her Michelle? I wonder why?" mused Anne, as Jessica showed her her teddy. Once the girls had been and introduced their bears, Anne looked to Edward, who was introducing his bear to his toy steam engines. "Aren't you going to introduce me to your bear?" she asked him. Edward got up and brought his bear to her. "He's called Peter." Anne paused for a moment at the mention of that name. Edward was puzzled for a moment at this, but Anne soon recovered and continued as though nothing had happened. "So, you're called Peter? You're an handsome bear, aren't you?" she said. "Going to look after Edward, are you?" Edward just smiled and took Peter back to his collection of toy trains. "I'll go and get your dinner ready, shall I?" said Anne. She headed into the kitchen. "Been caught off guard by Edward's teddy?" asked Julia, who was sitting with Helen at the kitchen table. "As much as I love Jessica, I'll never forget Peter," said Anne. "But he was always Jessica," said Helen. "I know that now," said Anne. During dinner, Anne was involved in more talk about possible outings. "I just wish I could go out with you," she explained. "But for work." "We've got plenty of time in August," said Julia. "I know," said Anne. "So, where can you go?" "I don't mind, as long as it isn't too expensive," said Julia. "Go to the library," said Helen. "They usually have a brochure stand, leaflets for local attractions." "Weren't you thinking of going to the library any way?" asked Anne. "I was," said Julia. "You lot ok with the library tomorrow?" "Yes mommy," said Kelly. "Yes," said Jessica and Sandra. Edward didn't answer, but his face didn't show any sign of objection. "Library it is then," said Julia. "Don't worry, we can look in Walsall too." So the next day, Julia got the children all ready for their trip to the library. After saying goodbye to Helen, they set off. The library seemed to be having a busy day, with plenty of children turning up for a day of activities. Among them were Lisa and her mom. She was glad to see her friends. "You heard about the activity weekend too then?" asked Yvonne. "We only heard about it the other day." The activity day had been set up for the school holiday and some of the librarians were taking turns to read books to any children who were interested in listening. There were also tables with games and paper and crayons. For now, the girls (Lisa included) sat down on the floor and listened to a librarian read from a book. "He's not as good as Aunt Sally," said Sandra. "No one is as good as her," agreed Jessica. Edward meanwhile had gone over to the table where the paper and crayons were. Some of the paper had pictures for colouring in, while the rest was plain and there for drawing on. With the children busy enjoying themselves, Julia went to the library entrance and found the rack of leaflets. She looked at a few and then decided to pick up a few. She took them back inside so that she could read them more thoroughly. "Looking for more things to do?" asked Yvonne, sitting next to her. "Yes, providing they don't cost too much," replied Julia. "And looking at some, they don't even tell you the admission prices!" "Some don't," said Yvonne. "Most do tell you on their websites now, and they offer discounts online." "I'll have to check," said Julia. "This is where I wouldn't mind going." She showed Yvonne the leaflet for the Black Country Museum. "Been there. Ever so good," said Yvonne. "We got the tickets online and saved a few quid." "Ok, I'll take a look," said Julia. "And another thing, go in the car. There are buses that go past the place, but not many. It's just that its a good distance from Dudley town centre. "I'll keep that in mind," said Julia. She looked over to where the girls were, and found them still listening to the librarian. It seemed they were very interested in the story that he was reading. After he finished reading, the girls got up and decided to find other things to do. They started looking at the shelves and racks of books, seeing if there were any to interest them. Jessica had found the Harry Potter books and was seeing that there were some that they didn't own - yet. "How many are there?" she asked. "We've only got 4." "There are 7, I think," said Lisa, coming over to join her. "Do you like them?" "Our Aunt Sally is reading them to us. She has already read the first book and she'll be reading the second one after the holiday," replied Jessica. "Well, the purple one is number 3, while the red one is number 4," said Lisa pointing to them. "The big yellow one is number 5, the blue and green one is number 6, while the black one is number 7." "Aunt Sally will be busy if she has to read all them," said Jessica. A gleam in her eye told Lisa that she was keen to keep her aunt busy! * * * Eventually, they left the library and made the short walk into the town centre. Yvonne and Lisa decided to join them, and while they were at it, they discussed books that they wanted Sally to read, and museums that they wanted to visit. "Anne said this would happen," said Julia, when she discovered that Jessica was after the last 3 Harry Potter books. "What will Aunt Sally think? You'll want her to read you the entire library next!" "That would be great!" said Jessica with a chuckle. Julia shook her head. Sandra and Kelly were getting a description of the Black Country Museum from Lisa next, after it was mentioned that a visit was now in the planning. "There's a shop there where they have a ball to put money in," she started. "The ball is put on a lift and it ends up on a track where it rolls into the room next door." "It was a system they used before cash registers were used," said Yvonne. "It is quite amusing for children. You won't get bored there." She then went over to Julia. "Something else to remember," she said. "The canal boat rides are run by a different company, and they charge extra. It's pricey for a 30 minute ride." "Ok. But it seems there is plenty to keep this lot entertained," said Julia. With the talk of books and museums put to one side, they went about exploring the shops, as well as getting something to eat. Once again, the children were taken to the big toy store round the back of town, which once again made them wish to leave with something, only for them to leave with nothing (again) After saying goodbye to Yvonne and Lisa, they made their way home. Upon arrival, the girls went upstairs to play, while Julia showed Helen the leaflets she had picked up. Edward was also keen to show her his pictures from the library. "I wonder how much in advance you can book up tickets?" asked Julia, now referring to the Black Country Museum. "You wish to go?" "I wouldn't mind at all," said Helen. "But when are you thinking of going?" "Tomorrow or Friday," said Julia. "I'll just have to wait till Anne comes home. She's better with computers than I am." When Anne arrived home later, she looked at the leaflets and agreed to take a look at the website. "So, when were you thinking of going?" she asked, as she booted up the computer. "Tomorrow, or Friday," said Julia. She was soon on the website and checking the admission prices first. As Yvonne had stated, there were discounts for booking. Still, it was pricey with 4 children and two adults. "Helen could get in as a senior?" suggested Julia. "Yes,I forgot," said Anne. "So, would tomorrow do?" "Yes, will do fine," said Julia. Anne went through the sales procedure and printed out the details on a piece of paper. "You'll need to take this with you tomorrow," she told Julia, handing her the printout. "Ok. I'll just go and tell the children that we're going," she replied. Later that day, during supper, the girls made it known to Anne that their Harry Potter book collection was incomplete. "They found the remaining books at the library, and now they want them," said Julia. "I did say that they'd want the others eventually," said Anne. "But you'll just have to wait for them." The girls sensed that it would be a lengthy wait. "You're about to start book 2, then you have 3 and 4 afterwards. Besides, Julia and I are saving the money up for the holiday and the weddings. I've just spent a good amount of money getting you tickets for the Black Country Museum." "Sorry mommy," came 3 voices. "I'll get you the books eventually. Now, I would like to see you take baths before you go to bed tonight. Have you all nice and clean for tomorrows day out." For once, bath time proved a problem. All 3 girls were eager to be first, and so Anne and Julia had to take charge. Sandra was given her bath alone, while Jessica shared with Kelly. It was the first time that Jessica had shared the bathtub with Kelly and she felt ashamed that it meant her sister to be had to see something. As she got into the bathtub, she kept her one hand over it. It resulted in Anne having to help her in. "Don't worry sis. One day you'll be rid of it," smiled Kelly. Jessica smiled at that. If only she knew when "one day" would be, though she knew it would be ages yet. * * * So, the next day, the children were awoken early and told to get dressed. After having breakfast, they said a quick goodbye to Anne. "Well kids, have a good day," said Anne. "Pity I'm at work, for I would have liked to have gone with you." The children were all keen to go, and so Julia and Helen had no difficulty in getting them out of the house. With Helen deciding to sit in the back, Sandra got to sit in the front next to Julia. "So, I take it we just head towards Dudley?" asked Julia. "Yes, and then follow the road signs," replied Helen. That was that, and Julia was soon heading in the right direction. Though she was fairly new to the district, she hadn't really travelled that far from her roots, and so knew most of the major places. They arrived in Dudley from the north side, thus avoiding the town. This was ideal, as the museum was on that side. "We're here kids," said Julia, as she entered the car park. They were soon getting out of the car, with Julia calling them together. "Whatever you do, stay close to me and gran. Don't want anyone getting lost, ok?" They soon headed to the entrance together, with Julia retrieving the printout from her handbag. After the person at the desk verified it, they were allowed in. Julia decided to buy a guidebook while she had the chance. The museum was in the form of a village set over a century ago, though one section was set in the 1930's. It was all set to reflect the area's industrial past, which had played a major role in the Industrial Revolution. Typically, the children were interested in anything which was "hands on". Though they would find such exhibits, Julia and Helen were keen to get them looking at the others too. Before taking the tram to the village, there were a few things to look at prior to that. Most were to do with the mining of coal. There was even an exhibit that allowed visitors to enter one of the old mine shafts and explore the tunnels. Waxwork figures explained how miners coped in the dark miserable conditions. "Why is that man standing still?" asked Edward. "He's a wax work," said Julia. "A large figurine." "Not very nice down here," said Jessica. "Too dark." "Well, men used to work down here," said Helen. "This is where they got coal from." The children were interested even so, as recorded dialogue played overhead, explaining things. But even so, they were glad to be above ground again. After visiting a replica steam engine (not the type that Edward loved, but one that pumped water from the mines), they caught the tram and enjoyed a short ride to the outskirts of the village. "We can come back by foot, as we passed a few buildings along the way," said Helen. But the village could wait. There was a fairground nearby, with rides and game stalls. Since the rides and attractions cost extra, the girls were slightly disappointed when Julia refused to let them have a go. The part of the village they arrived at first was the 1930's section, though it comprised a school that was earlier. Julia was wondering whether the children were interested in going to school now. "We're on holiday!" said Kelly. "Well, I'm going in," said Julia. They all followed and found themselves in an old fashioned class room. They were all invited to sit at a desk (adults included) and take part in a lesson. There were other visitors taking part too, and all found themselves at the mercy of a strict teacher. Julia was wishing that Helen was useless with a camera, but she wasn't. The reason being that Julia crossed the teacher too much and was told to stand in the corner. Helen couldn't resist taking a photo. The girls found it amusing too, but were soon told to stop laughing. Even so, they resumed once the lesson was over. "You took my photo?!" exclaimed Julia. "I'll never live this down!" "Mommy got in trouble, mommy got in trouble!" sang the girls, just to rub salt in. They proceeded to look down the row of shops that neighboured the school. They were all open for exploring, though the fish and chip shop was an actual eatery rather than an exhibit. "This is a history lesson, even for me," said Helen. "Though I'm sure some of the shops were like this when I was young." They slowly worked their way towards the canal bridge which led to the part of the village that was set right at the beginning of the 20th century. As they walked, they continued to see people dressed in period clothing. Once again, the shops were exhibits with the "owners" explaining various things to anyone who entered. The chemist store gave the children a chance to see how pills used to be made, while the general store certainly gave them "food for thought" when they noticed familiar brands in very different and older packaging. It also had the ball system of transferring money from the main shop to the room at the back. For dinner, they opted to go back to the fish and chip shop and took their meals outside. The only thing that was different about the take- aways was noted by Helen. "Back when I was a girl, they served fish and chips in newspaper," she said. "Used to get ink on the food." "You never did?" asked Julia. "Yes," she nodded. "But obviously did no harm." Even the children were surprised. But there was no chance of ink stained chips this time, for their meals had been served in the usual plain greaseproof paper. * * * After finishing their dinner, they went back across the bridge to explore the parts they hadn't yet seen. This was mainly all the exhibits connected to the canal. Boat workshops, and various types of smiths workshops were all located within one area. But even for Helen, there was something she knew about. "Back-to-back houses," she exclaimed. "My parents used to live in one of these." "I thought they pulled all these down?" said Julia. "But I've only ever heard of them." "They did, as they were not very spacious, and the sanitation was poor," said Helen. "From what I've heard, they wanted them all replaced with better buildings during Queen Victoria's reign. But there were still many about in the 1960's." They went through the passageway that led to the back. Here was the courtyard that contained the outdoor toilet. The entrance to the rear house was found here. "Well, these houses were moved here, brick by brick," said Julia, looking at the guide book. "The one house was 2 back-to-back, and the one next door was 2 up, 2 down." "2 rooms on the ground floor, 2 rooms upstairs," explained Helen. "House like this were everywhere. All the major cities had them." Upon going inside, they noticed how small the rooms were. The houses were just about big enough for 3, never mind the 6 or so that usually resided in them. "You lot would have had to have slept in one bed," said Helen, referring to the 4 children. "How?" asked Sandra. "2 of you would sleep at one end, and 2 of you at the other," said Helen. "Though with the heating that was available, it was a good way of keeping warm." As had been the case all day, the children were keen to have photos taken as much as possible. Julia did a lot of the photos, though Helen was happy to take over if Julia wanted to be in the frame. It was a nice day too, which made the day all the better. They went to have a look at the canal boats, but didn't take the ride available. The reason was that it was operated by a different company, and mainly because the price to have a short ride was high. On the way back through the Victorian street, Julia decided to get a souvenir photo of them. There was a photo studio around the back of the shops that allowed people to have their photos taken whilst wearing period costume. It once again demonstrated how well Jessica passed as a girl, as the attendants who helped them all with their costumes didn't suspect a thing. Even so, they all got changed together, and waited for their moment before the camera. It was fair to say that Edward was the least impressed with his costume, perhaps because being a boy, dressing up wasn't something he enjoyed. The girls did though, and were all identically dressed, in costumes that were very much like those worn by Jenny Agutter in ?The Railway Children.?. Helen and Julia wore slightly different costumes, albeit the fact that they were posing as members of the same class. They soon were called into the studio and arranged into a suitable group. Once their photo was taken, they went back to change into their own clothes. It was then a case of having to wait for the photo to be processed. ?It's browny grey!? said Kelly as she looked at the photo. ?Thats how it should be," said Julia. ?Photos were black and white then.? ?Well, that did cost a bit, but it was fun," said Helen. ?Cheer up Edward. You looked really good in those shorts.? Edward wasn't moved. He just didn't like dress up. ?I think the clothes needed to be better colours," said Jessica. ?They were too dull, even if they were girly.? ?Well, those were the clothes that young girls wore back then," said Helen. ?You're spoiled rotten nowadays.? Once outside, they returned to looking around, seeing if there was anything they had missed. Once they had explored everything around the canal, they headed back towards the entrance. Rather than catch the tram, they walked the distance so that they could see the buildings that they had missed. Eventually, they came back to the entrance. The children were given the chance to explore the souvenir shop before heading for home. They all came back with something. ?So, enjoy yourselves?? asked Julia as they headed back to the car. ?Yes mommy," came the general reply. ?Especially when the teacher told you off," added Jessica. Even Helen had to smile. ?I'm never going to forget that!? she sighed. ?Just remember that teachers were not as nice then as they are now," added Helen. By the time they got home, they found that Anne had beat them to it. ?Forgot we'd been out that long," said Julia. ?So, when did you get back?? ?Just a few minutes ago," replied Anne. ?So, enjoy yourselves?? ?Very much," said Julia. ?But don't mention schools.? Anne's curiosity was peaked, and she did enquire. Helen showed her the photograph on the camera. ?So, you're a naughty girl then?? she asked Julia. ?Perhaps I can think of other ways to punish you?? Julia caught the way Anne looked at her when she said the last bit and smiled. ?But it will have to wait till tonight," said Anne. ?So, lets have a full report of what you did then.? The children did, and it was the usual excited chatter where all tried to speak at once. ?My only regret," said Anne. ?Is that I couldn't be there with you.? * * * Friday was quiet in comparison to Thursday. It was decided to stay at home and take it easy. For the girls, they had decided to spend some time playing with their teddies. All had had their box ?houses? coloured in and were now part of the game. But unlike dolls houses, these boxes could only hold one bear. So, the bears always had to play ?outside?. ?We'll have to show these bears to the others," said Kelly. ?I'm sure they'll like them.? ?They'll want one too," said Sandra. ?Michelle wants some clothes," said Jessica. ?She would like a pretty dress.? Kelly and Sandra's bears were also keen to have clothes. Over dinner that evening, they explained that they wanted to show Rachel and Lisa, their teddies. ?We can always arrange to have them visit tomorrow if you like?? said Anne. ?Yes please!? said Kelly. ?Ok, I'll phone up their parents and ask them to come over tomorrow," said Anne. No sooner had she cleared the plates afterwards, she was on the phone making the arrangements. ?I wonder if Pam will still be suffering from Helen-phobia?? asked Julia. ?No idea," said Anne. ?But I'm guessing she will. Besides, tomorrow is my Saturday off.? Even so, the next day, Julia was asked to remain at the back of the house, or at least anywhere that wasn't within view of the front door. When Anne answered the door to find Pam with Rachel and Charlie, she had wished Helen had done it instead. ?Anne, you're here," said Pam. ?Is your mom here too?? ?Yes, my mom-in-law is here. She does live here and keep house, you know," said Anne. ?I think she needs to change her attitude. She was rude to me last time," said Pam. ?I don't think so," said Anne. ?If you are trying to persuade everyone to become paranoid homophobes like you, think again. I know about my sister-in-law and her sexuality is not a problem to me.? Pam looked offended but decided not to speak. ?My ex-husband was a bigot just like you, and I'm very glad I told him to sling his hook! I just hope that your children don't end up like you!? ?Don't tell me how to bring my children up," replied Pam, finding her voice again. ?Then don't tell me which family to keep and which to reject!? said Anne. Rachel and Charlie were eager to get inside and avoid this confrontation. Neither parent noticed them sneak in. Anne was however closing the door and heading back inside in a huff. ?If she and Adam were ever to meet, it would be a match made in hell!? she sighed. ?I heard the heated talk," said Julia. ?Same subject?? ?Pam is a fruitcake," said Anne. ?I wouldn't put it past her to arrange a homophobic rally. I seriously hope that her children don't end up like her.? Rachel and Charlie were slightly worried, having heard part of the talk. ?My mom and your mom don't like each other," said Rachel as she entered the girls bedroom. ?Were they shouting?? asked Jessica. ?I thought I could hear something.? The subject was dropped though, as Rachel was introduced to 3 teddy bears. A few minutes later and Lisa was also among them. Lisa's mom Yvonne had been stopped, just so that Anne could have a word. ?That Pam needs her head examined," said Anne. ?Her and her homophobia!? ?She hasn't found out about you, has she?? asked Yvonne. ?No, but she knows about my gay sister-in-law," replied Anne. ?My mom- in-law has already put her down over the subject. My sister is not her business. She is a good friend above all, and I'm not ditching her to satisfy that bitch!? ?I have to agree with you. Pam has taken her opinions too far," said Yvonne. ?At least if we cannot learn to put our hatred to one side, we should learn to tolerate.? ?Ok, well I'll see you later," said Anne. ?Bye," said Yvonne. With the girls upstairs playing, and Charlie and Edward playing in the boys room, it was a welcome peace for Anne. One that was only interrupted by the phone ringing. It was John. ?Hi John. So, hows things?? said Anne. ?Very well. I think Sally has chosen well," he replied. ?Oh, Carol? Yes, she has warmed to us. Very down to earth," said Anne. ?They're coming back today, aren't they?? ?Yes, they set off just turned 10am this morning," he said. ?Just wondering. So, how is things with you?? asked Anne. ?Not bad. Had a run in with Michael's old friend from school. Couldn't shake him off.? ?Why, did he want to come home with you?? said Anne. ?He might have, had he had the chance," said John. ?But this friendship would only cause problems now. Michael is set to become Michelle full time next month.? ?Yes, I'm aware of that," said Anne. ?So, apart from that, anything else?? ?We went swimming, just to see how Michael will cope with his wig. We have a way figured of getting him in and out without his secret being rumbled," said John. ?But aside from that, he's a very good swimmer already.? ?Good for him," said Anne. ?Well, Julia took the others to the Black Country Museum. Helen went too. I'll send you photos when I can.? ?We've got some photos too, so I'll be getting them processed too. I'll email them to you too.? ?So, what do the girls think of the bridesmaid dresses?? asked Anne. ?They like them. Looking forward to wearing them," said John. ?It's going to be a busy few weeks up here.? ?Will be here too," said Anne. ?But we should manage.? ?Ok, I'll let you be for now. Bye then.? ?Bye John," said Anne. * * * With the news that Sally and Carol were heading home, Anne wondered whether they would visit here first. ?I doubt it," said Julia. ?If Sally is driving all the way, she'll be wanting to hit the sack upon arrival.? ?If she knew that the girls were eager for more Harry Potter, she would leave a visit till tomorrow at least," smiled Helen. But soon, Pam and Yvonne arrived to pick up their children. With the pick up time planned, Julia knew when to make herself scarce. Anne was relieved to see that Pam had no time for talking, as she didn't want another heated discussion. The girls were back downstairs and awaiting either mother to start on the dinner. ?So girls? Did Rachel and Lisa like your bears?? asked Anne. ?Yes mommy," said Sandra. ?They want teddy bears too.? ?No surprises then," smiled Julia. ?Can we have some clothes for them, please?? asked Jessica. ?They'll have to wait," said Anne. ?We do have a wedding and a holiday to pay for. Anyway, we have spent quite a bit over the holiday on you. Those teddies included.? The girls looked a litte disappointed. ?I'm not saying they can't have clothes, but they'll just have to wait," added Anne. ?And anyway, your aunties are on the way home today. You might see them tomorrow.? That cheered them up. ?Great! Aunt Sally said she would start on book 2 when she got back," said Jessica. ?I'm sure she's looking forward to it," said Anne, shaking her head. ?Most likely, she'll want to keep us informed about what is going on with John's family," said Helen. ?Especially one in particular," said Anne. ?That reminds me. When he phoned earlier, John mentioned that Michelle has proved a natural swimmer. She'll be top of the class when they start lessons next year.? ?I wonder what she'll think when she learns that Jessica has a teddy called Michelle?? asked Helen. ?She'll probably want a teddy called Jessica," smiled Anne. Jessica overheard that and smiled too. ?I'd like that," she replied. ?Well, Sandra has a doll called Sally. It wouldn't be anything new for toy to be named after a family member.? Pam had arrived home feeling sore. It never occurred to her that her opinions were unwanted by some. She felt it necessary to make a certain wrong known. Rachel had been asking her for a teddy bear on the way home. She had no objections in that, but having her opinions thrown back at her again was once again weighing on her mind. She was still feeling down when her husband Dennis arrived home from work. ?What's up love?? he asked when he came into the living room and found her sat down. ?Those Smiths! My opinions are not welcome there! They have a gay relation, and I suggest that they would be better shunning her. I get told to stick my opinions where the sun doesn't shine!? she replied. ?I know how you feel about gays, but no one asked you to preach it," replied Dennis. ?So, I can't offer advice?? she retorted. ?No, you don't offer advice. You just show yourself up," he said. ?You can't make people hate something. Just let them be. They're not hurting you.? Pam didn't seem moved. ?You need a shrink. This isn't the first time you've gone all manic about gays," he added. ?Sorry, but you've got to stop doing this.? ?You never saw what I saw back then," she said. ?I didn't need to," he replied. ?You gave me a wonderful description.? He went upstairs to the toilet and thought about his wife's latest bout of paranoia. He wasn't pro-gay either, but he still considered his wife's attitude as ?crossing the line?. ?You need to apologise to the Smiths, and to everyone else you've preached to," he told her when he came downstairs. She said nothing, which Dennis took as a no. She was soon heading to the kitchen to start on the dinner. He quickly went over to the phone and found a few phone numbers. He copied them on to a piece of paper and put it in his pocket. He was well aware of what had caused her extreme hatred, and it was enough to perhaps have triggered such a fear. Perhaps it was time for everyone else to know too. Even so, he thought it wise to do it behind his wife's back.