| gg |
| uuu |
| kkk |
Meanwhile, below in the tunnels, Vincent walked his Father to the Dining Hall for the mid-day meal. And as they walked, Vincent turned to his Father and with a glint in his eye, noted, "I would like to compliment you, on your feigning a quite convincing contrived illness last evening."
With a bit of a naughty chuckle, Jacob replied, "And I shall be glad to accept any and all accolades my boy! Ah yes, I was pleased to have played a small part in the endeavor..."
Warmly, Jacob then asked, "...and did you and Catherine enjoy your evening?"
Reflectively, Vincent answered, "Yes, very much. What Lin and Henry did for Catherine and I, went far beyond any expectations for such an experience. The dining room...was lit with many candles, music played...and the food, Father...the food was exquisite."
And then Jacob playfully asked, "And the company?"
Vincent smiled downward, as he reminiscently replied, "The company...Divine."
Vincent then confided, "This relationship I share with Catherine seems to deepen each time I am with her Father. I cannot imagine my life without her now."
As Jacob thought back on the journey these two had been on, he thoughtfully knitted his brow, and surmised, "It would appear the rough waters are now behind you Vincent. I am pleased for you."
In wanting to express his gratitude to his Father, Vincent told Jacob, "Your being pleased for me, means the world Father...and I know you understand why it was so important for me to dine with Catherine in the city above..."
And it was then Jacob saw an opening to tell Vincent of his own plans to dine in the city above...with Jessica. And the reason it was uncomfortable for Jacob to speak about, was because he knew that Vincent understood how his and Jessica's relationship affected Mary, even though Jacob and Jessica had downgraded to an affectionate platonic friendship.
And because Jacob knew Vincent was quite protective of Mary, he wanted to present it as laid back as possible. And so he cleared his throat, and tried to sound matter-of-factly as he said, "By the way, speaking of dining above in the city...I will be doing so myself tomorrow night, along with Peter and Charles."
And because Vincent was per-warned by Catherine about these plans, he knew there would be three ladies joining them as well! And so Vincent put Jacob on the spot by quizzically asking, "Just you three gents?"
To which Jacob with discomfort replied, "Well no, you see, they both have...shall I say "Dates" with the ladies they met through Jessica while down in Florida. Ahem, and from what I understand, Jessica's lady friends wanted to enjoy some of the city's trappings before the Holidays, and so ahem...Jessica graciously invited them this week-end to her place, and so the ladies looked Peter and Charles up and made dinner plans."
In an effort to make Jacob clarify further, Vincent asked, "So it shall be just the five of you then?"
To which Jacob corrected his son by saying, "Six of us, Jessica will be joining us of course."
With a raised brow, Vincent then stated, "So you will have a "date" as well..."
To which Jacob quickly said, "Well, I wouldn't call it a date as far as Jessica and I are concerned, we are the intermediaries, or so to speak. AND I will NOT be out late."
Jacob's response caused Vincent to turn to Jacob and question, "Oh really? But why? There is no reason to hurry back."
In reply, Jacob assuredly said, "Of curse there is! There is much to be done with the Christmas Holidays approaching!"
To which Vincent noted, "Things always manage to get done...haven't you told me in the past that one must take time to stop and smell the roses?"
With a nod, Jacob admitted to saying this, and then added, "I may sniff at a rose or two, however as I say, I do have duties to perform as well."
Realizing they were going in circles, Vincent changed the subject, as he mentioned, "With all of your activities, I DO hope you STILL have time for our chess game this afternoon..."
To which, Jacob expounded, "Oh my, Our chess game! I had totally forgotten!"
Apologetically, Jacob then explained, "It appears I have been remiss Vincent, as I have promised to help Mary wind the yarn she just received. You see, we have to wind it into balls, because Mary says it makes it easier to utilize that way. And we also spoke about firming up the plans for all the upcoming Christmas events and activities as well."
Jacob then laughed, and in a reflective manner, he added, "Mary humorously noted, we will be killing two birds with one stone, or so to speak."
And as his Father carried on, Vincent couldn't help but think to himself, it sounded as if this task of winding yarn with Mary, pleased his Father more than the dinner date with Jessica!
So, Vincent continued to listen as Jacob went on to say, "I suppose someone else could help Mary with this winding task, however she claims no one else does the job as efficiently as I! She surmised it was because I am a doctor that I am so talented with my hands. Imagine that!"
Tipping his head in a thoughtful manner, Vincent suspiciously asked, "Hmmm, didn't you find Mary's comment...to be a bit on the flirtatious side Father?"
Trying to sound matter-of-factly, Jacob managed to answer, "Flirtatious? Why no, I hadn't viewed it that way."
Upon hearing his Father's response, Vincent raised a brow, and in a disbelieving tone, noted, "Father really now, I never knew you to be a naive man."
Blushing a tad, Jacob then reluctantly admitted, "In truth, I did think the comment was bordering on this side of flirtatiousness, however I discounted that notion, being it was Mary who said it."
To which Vincent suggested, "Well Father...perhaps you should re-think that notion, since you do have a sense of how Mary feels."
Suddenly, all this analysis made Jacob nervous, and so in wanting to change the subject, Jacob told his son, "Ahh, that's enough counseling for now Vincent! Honestly, you do seem to enjoy delving lately!"
In a resigned manner, Vincent replied, "All right Father. No move delving, but I do need to remind you, that you are supposed to be taking it easy!"
To which Jacob quizzically asked, "I thought I was! What are you referring to?"
With a judgmental tone, Vincent listed, "I am referring to your itinerary...visits with Jessica, plans to help Mary, well it would seem betwixt the two women, you certainly have your hands full."
As they now stepped into the dining Hall, a blushing Jacob said, "No pun intended, I hope Vincent!"
With a smile in his eyes, Vincent tipped his head in a touché type manner, and said, "No pun intended."
And then with concern, Jacob asked, "Since I had so regretfully forgotten about our plans for the afternoon, what will you do to occupy yourself?"
Thoughtfully Vincent answered, "I will begin work on my Christmas gift for Catherine. I have a few ideas, and plan on enlisting Mouse's help with one of my notions. And speaking of Christmas Father..."
Vincent then mentioned, "...I've been thinking of our upcoming Christmas festivities, and of how it may be in order for Catherine and Charles to receive an official invitation for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day as well."
With a thoughtful hand to his chin, Jacob concurred, saying, "I assumed they knew they were invited, especially Catherine, however you are right son, an actual verbal is definitely in order! I shall invite Charles tonight, and when next I see Catherine I will invite her as well. Of course in the meantime, if you want to invite Catherine before I have the opportunity, then please do."
With a nod, Vincent was pleased about this, and then Jacob clarified, "So you say you are going to work on Catherine's Christmas gift with your ahem...freed up afternoon?"
Saying he was, Vincent then added, "And if time allows, I may go to the Falls to catch up on a little reading. You have always told me, solitude replenishes the soul."
In agreement, Jacob nodded, and said, "Indeed it does."
And so in conclusion, Jacob with relief synopsized, "Well, very good then. Since I know you have an alternate itinerary, I don't feel nearly as guilty about forgetting our game."
To which Vincent asked, "Guilty? Is it not written that guilt is a useless emotion?"
And because he had read this theory as well, Jacob discounted the quote, by telling his son, "So they say, however, I do believe a touch of guilt on occasion, helps to keep us in touch with our humane nature, and urges us to do the right thing."
In agreement, Vincent nodded, as he said, "You could be right Father...an interesting and thought provoking argument on the side of implementing the ostracized guilt trip."
Vincent then feigned to be up lifted, as he asked, "So Father...since you felt a twinge or two of guilt yourself for forgetting our chess match, does this mean our game is back on this afternoon?"
With a shaking of his head, Jacob shifted his eyes, and with flair, abruptly said, "No Vincent...it does not!"
And because of Jacob's style, Vincent was quite tickled, and so the two, Father and son shared a hearty laugh.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Meanwhile, Catherine and her entourage, had a great day in the Holiday decorated city. Catherine and Jennifer took Robert and Gertrude firstly out to the most well known shops in Manhattan. Namely Tiffany's, and then on to Lord and Taylor, sauntered on to Saks Fifth Avenue, stopped at the sophisticated Bergdorf Goodmannd, and made a grand showing at the famous Macy's. Where they all went in together to buy a gift for Willie, to thank her for cooking for them tonight.
And while they each picked up some other special Christmas gifts from these notable stores, they also thoroughly enjoyed all the different flavors of design, of which the window dressers exhibited for their Christmas displays. They were all so bright and festive, and of course Gertrude and Robert took many pictures along the way.
So as they shopped, they passed by Trump Tower, and of course Robert knew a few stats about it, saying, "Trump Tower has 58 floors, and is 664 feet tall and it took from 1979-1986 to complete, and it cost 300 million to build!" And then as they passed by Carnegie Hall, Robert knew some stats about the hall too! Mentioning, "Did you know this building was built by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie back in 1891? Oh yeah, AND the main hall seats 2,804 on five different levels, and in fact, I read that it was just renovated in 1986! What a great piece of architecture, uh?"
To which Jennifer agreed, and then comically noted, "I guess if you are rich enough to build a place like this, you may as well name it after yourself!"
Everyone shared a chuckle at Jennifer's joking, and then Robert asked, "I think I have had my fill of shopping, anyone else getting hungry?"
Compliantly, the girls were all on the same page as Robert, and because Catherine wanted to include some sightseeing too, she suggested they eat lunch near the Empire State building, so they could visit the famous landmark before going to the Rockefeller Centre to see the Christmas Tree.
To which Jennifer asked, "Where do you think we should have lunch Cath...I'm trying to think of some places that are near by The Empire State building.
So upon checking her guide book, Catherine saw there was a place called, State Grill and Bar which is right in the building.
Deciding as a group that this place sounded pretty convenient, they headed for the Empire State Building!
Upon arriving at the legendary structure, they found the entrance for the restaurant, and were happy to finally sit down.
So after studying the menu, the girls decided on a lighter fare, and each prospectively ordered, a Cobb, a Chicken Chop Chop and a Caesar Salad, however Robert was pretty hungry, so he ordered a State Beef Burger with Tater Tots.
So as they sat enjoying their lunch, sipping their cappuccinos, espressos, and lattes, the four of them spoke about the play they would be seeing tonight, and how excited they were about going.
To which Gertrude said, "I still can't get over it! We are going to see The Phantom!! Uncle Charley must be the best Uncle in the world!"
In agreement, Robert smiled as he said, "Pretty great all right! But then again, Uncle Charles has always been loads of fun all through our lives, planning joint family vacations and such."
Turning a bit serious, Robert then noted, "And thank heavens he is tough and resilient too! I mean that food poisoning can take a lot out of you. But it sounds like he bounced right back!"
Assuredly Catherine said, "Yes...he is really doing good now, but I have to tell you, when I got the call, I was pretty scared."
And then looking over at Jennifer, she gave her friend kudos by saying, "And if Jen hadn't been there with me when I got THAT call...I don't know what I would have done."
Turning to Gertrude and Robert, Catherine added, "Jen took care of all that I couldn't right then and there. She loaded up Noodles, and told me not to worry, she would take him over to her Mom's."
With emotion, Jennifer said, "Awe...just so glad I was there..."
Catherine gave her friend a grateful smile, and continued, "When I left, I really didn't know what Dad's ailment was, and it was not until after I arrived at the hospital, that they were certain it had been food poisoning..."
And then Catherine continued, "...and although, food poisoning can be very serious, I was really thankful that's all it was."
Sympathetically, Gerty said, "Yes...what a horrible ordeal for you to go through alone, you should have let Mom and Dad come!"
With a nod, Robert then revealed, "You know, Mom and Dad were this close to going down there to be with you even though you told them not to, but before they could get a flight confirmation, you had called with the all clear."
Catherine acknowledged her Aunt and Uncles' kind offer, and then said, "If Dad's prognosis hadn't been what it was, believe me...I would have needed your Mom and Dad with me, but Dad was released so quickly, there was no reason for them to come. And Dad really didn't want to put your Mom and Dad through what he refers to as Pure Travel Hell."
Everyone laughed at Charles reference to travel these days, and then Catherine mentioned, "Speaking of Dad, he and Willie will be looking for us in a about four hours, so I guess we better get moving again. Are you all ready for a long elevator ride up to the top of the Empire State Building?"
Saying they were, they then headed for the lobby, and as they walked, Robert mentioned, "Hey interestingly enough, it really is not a long ride! In fact it only takes a minute to reach the 86th floor! So hang onto your lunch!"
To which Catherine responded, "Oh really! Wow that's something."
Upon which Gertrude asked, "I thought the building is 102 stories high...aren't we going to the top?"
Catherine was about to share what she had just learned about this, but there was no need, because Robert was on it! And so Robert informatively shared, "The 102nd story observatory is under renovations, so sorry sis, 86 floors is as high as we go!"
In reply, Gertrude nervously answered, "Well really that's fine with me! 86 stories is high enough!"
"Besides..." Says Jennifer, "The 86th floor is kinda iconic. It's where the movie scenes were filmed for An Affair to Remember, and Sleepless in Seattle."
And because she is such a movie buff, Gertrude replied, "Well I like that!"
In unison, they then boarded the elevator, and Robert happily shared, "Hey here's a fun fact, The Empire State Building has 1,860 steps from street level to the 102nd floor! So be glad we are taking an elevator!"
To which Jennifer said, "Woa, I sure am!"
So as the doors closed, they zipped on up to the 86th floor, and they were beyond words as the doors opened, at the spectacle before them! Saying they were definitely thrilled to witness this site! And then of course Robert knew some factoids about the view too, and so he shared, "They say on the clearest of days, visibility from the Observatories is 80 miles, with five states in view, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Massachusetts. And if you want to know about the construction, according to this plaque, it says that the ground breaking began on March 17, 1930, and construction of the building took only one year and 45 days from the setting of the tower's first steel columns on April 7, 1930, to the completed building by March 31, 1931, a full month before the official opening ceremonies. This was the fastest construction to date for a project of its scale. And I find it amazing that they averaged constructing 4-1/2 stories per week. And I also read that more than 7 million man hours were logged in for it's construction."
The girls loved hearing this info, and meantime, while Robert talked, they took turns looking through the binoculars, which really added to their awesome experience.
And so since time was of the essence, Catherine rallied, "Well, I hate to leave, but if we are going to fit in Rockefeller Center yet, we better get going. Is everyone ready to continue on?"
And because they all were ready, they first asked a fellow site-seer to take a group photo to commemorate their visit at the top of the Empire State Building! And then traveled in the elevator once again.
After reaching the ground floor, they all had to catch their breath from this exhilarating experience! And so after excitedly voicing a few view points, opinions, and observances, they bade the Empire State Building a fond adieu!
So they next headed for the Herald Square Subway Station to hitch a ride on the subway, which was an experience both the cousins wanted to have!
Yes, so both Jennifer and Catherine agreed, the subway train from the Herold Square Station would take them the closest to the Rockefeller Centre, home of New York City's official Christmas Tree.
So as they buzzed along the tracks, both Gertrude and Robert were wide eyed, and excited by all they saw. And so as they disembarked the subway car, they walked onward, about 4 minutes or so to their next destination.
And as they arrived at the centre, they, at the same time, were treated to the illuminated Saks Building too! So after gazing at the Saks building which was donning a zillion twinkling snowflakes, Gertrude turned to next marvel at the Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree, to which she dreamily said, "I would have loved to have seen the official lighting of this tree!"
Feeling equally enthralled with the trees magnificence, Catherine mentioned, "I know! I feel badly I missed this year. But we have a nice long time to enjoy it, because it'll stay lit till January sixth."
To which Gertrude said, "If I lived in Manhattan, I would come here every day! It is so beautiful!"
In reply, Catherine and Jennifer, said, although they certainly don't come everyday, they do go by it quite often, and never tire of this magnificent splendor of the tree along with the traditional horn-blowing angels.
Luckily, since it was their last stop of the day, the winter sun was setting upon the city. And so Robert and Gerty, were able to truly appreciate the beauty of the Rockefeller Square Christmas Tree.
To which Robert spouted some stats, by sharing, "There are 78,000 lights on this tree, you know that this Christmas tradition began in 1933!"
Amazed by Roberts knowledge, Jennifer expounded, "Oh really I didn't know that! Here I am, THE New Yorker, and an out-of-towner, is the one informing me!"
Proudly Robert stated, "I did my homework Jennifer!"
As Jennifer walked backward gazing up at the beautifully lit tree, she accidentally bumped into a group of ladies.
After Jennifer apologized, one of the ladies in turn said, no worries, it was just as much their fault too!
As Catherine turned to the group of nice ladies, one of them looked at her, and Catherine looked back, and after an awkward moment of silence, they both realized it was all right to acknowledge they knew each other, and so Jessica spoke first, by warmly saying, "Hello Catherine."
To which Catherine replied in kind, and after introductions were made all around, Catherine turned to Evelyn, and told her how nice it was to meet her, and how very kind it was of her to send her Dad the "Get Well" wishes and beautiful flowers.
To which Evelyn replied, "I am just so happy he is okay. Imagine how badly I felt to learn he had gotten food poisoning from the restaurant I had picked out!"
Assuredly Catherine said Evelyn shouldn't feel responsible, and then added, "I know Dad wouldn't want you to feel that way. It can happen in the finest of restaurants."
In response, Evelyn humbly looked over at Sylvia, and then to Jessica as she explained, "I have eaten at that restaurant for years, and wouldn't you know the one time I take a nice gentlemen friend there, he gets sick!"
And then Evelyn added, "Well Cathy, all I can say, is that your father is a very nice, and understanding man...I can't believe he is willing to go out with me again..."
To which Sylvia spoke up, and as she addressed the group, she teasingly said, "Only because Jessica promised she will be the one to pick where we go this time."
Everyone laughed, and even Evelyn, laughed a humble chuckle too.
Upon changing the subject, Catherine said, "I hope you have enjoyed the city as much as we have today! Since Gerty and Robby are visiting too, it is fun seeing our everyday landmarks through new eyes."
In response, the three ladies said they did indeed enjoy their day in the Big Apple, and then Jessica added, "And as you say Catherine, seeing everything through my two pals eyes, has given me a new perspective, and I am learning a few things I never knew before too!"
To which Jennifer compliantly replied, "Yes, me too! I am learning things about my own home town, from this brilliant guy right here! And he knows so much about this tree! You should tell them the stats Rob!"
And so Robert did! And all the while the ladies oohed and aaahed at the info he spewed out, and they all gazed up at the tree now with even more admiration!
As the chit chat resumed, Catherine then asked, "What are your plans for the rest of the day?"
To which Jessica said, "Well...after we dine, we will be going to the Majestic to see the Phantom!"
Upon hearing this scoop, Catherine looked about at her comrades, and excitedly told Jessica's bunch, that her Dad was taking them to the play as well! And then sweetly added, "I hope we see you later on at the theater."
To which the ladies agreed, and said, they would defiantly be looking for them.
So...as the two groups parted, going in separate directions, Catherine stopped, and turned to look back, and at the same moment Jessica did too, and they shared a knowing smile and with a nod, they turned back to join their companions.
As the shopping/sightseeing day wound down, they stopped at Catherine's apartment to drop off their shopping bags full of treasures, and to pickup the garb they would be wearing to the theater. And so because Catherine still had hot rollers, and a curling iron back home at her Dad's, she mentioned they needn't worry about taking anything like that, but only gathered their other necessities, they put it all into a single duffel and Catherine zipped it up.
So conservatively, the girls next consolidated their dresses into one garment bag, and meanwhile, Robert flung his garment bag over his shoulder, and as he also grabbed his suitcase he agreed, they were ready to go.
And it was then Gertrude remembered Willie's gift! And so she said, "OH what about Willie's gloves? We need to get them ready! Do you have a gift bag for them Cathy?"
Well luckily, Catherine did, and so she said, "Thank you for remembering Gerty! We would have been so disappointed if we had forgotten them." Of course Jennifer helped too, by locating the pair of leather Michael Kors gloves in one of the Macy's bags, and then wrapped them in the green tissue paper, and placed them in the cute little Christmas bag Catherine handed her.
Now being officially ready, Catherine looked at her watch, she proudly said, "Dad will be so impressed! We should be right on time!"
To be continued
Chapter Fourteen
With a bit of a naughty chuckle, Jacob replied, "And I shall be glad to accept any and all accolades my boy! Ah yes, I was pleased to have played a small part in the endeavor..."
Warmly, Jacob then asked, "...and did you and Catherine enjoy your evening?"
Reflectively, Vincent answered, "Yes, very much. What Lin and Henry did for Catherine and I, went far beyond any expectations for such an experience. The dining room...was lit with many candles, music played...and the food, Father...the food was exquisite."
And then Jacob playfully asked, "And the company?"
Vincent smiled downward, as he reminiscently replied, "The company...Divine."
Vincent then confided, "This relationship I share with Catherine seems to deepen each time I am with her Father. I cannot imagine my life without her now."
As Jacob thought back on the journey these two had been on, he thoughtfully knitted his brow, and surmised, "It would appear the rough waters are now behind you Vincent. I am pleased for you."
In wanting to express his gratitude to his Father, Vincent told Jacob, "Your being pleased for me, means the world Father...and I know you understand why it was so important for me to dine with Catherine in the city above..."
And it was then Jacob saw an opening to tell Vincent of his own plans to dine in the city above...with Jessica. And the reason it was uncomfortable for Jacob to speak about, was because he knew that Vincent understood how his and Jessica's relationship affected Mary, even though Jacob and Jessica had downgraded to an affectionate platonic friendship.
And because Jacob knew Vincent was quite protective of Mary, he wanted to present it as laid back as possible. And so he cleared his throat, and tried to sound matter-of-factly as he said, "By the way, speaking of dining above in the city...I will be doing so myself tomorrow night, along with Peter and Charles."
And because Vincent was per-warned by Catherine about these plans, he knew there would be three ladies joining them as well! And so Vincent put Jacob on the spot by quizzically asking, "Just you three gents?"
To which Jacob with discomfort replied, "Well no, you see, they both have...shall I say "Dates" with the ladies they met through Jessica while down in Florida. Ahem, and from what I understand, Jessica's lady friends wanted to enjoy some of the city's trappings before the Holidays, and so ahem...Jessica graciously invited them this week-end to her place, and so the ladies looked Peter and Charles up and made dinner plans."
In an effort to make Jacob clarify further, Vincent asked, "So it shall be just the five of you then?"
To which Jacob corrected his son by saying, "Six of us, Jessica will be joining us of course."
With a raised brow, Vincent then stated, "So you will have a "date" as well..."
To which Jacob quickly said, "Well, I wouldn't call it a date as far as Jessica and I are concerned, we are the intermediaries, or so to speak. AND I will NOT be out late."
Jacob's response caused Vincent to turn to Jacob and question, "Oh really? But why? There is no reason to hurry back."
In reply, Jacob assuredly said, "Of curse there is! There is much to be done with the Christmas Holidays approaching!"
To which Vincent noted, "Things always manage to get done...haven't you told me in the past that one must take time to stop and smell the roses?"
With a nod, Jacob admitted to saying this, and then added, "I may sniff at a rose or two, however as I say, I do have duties to perform as well."
Realizing they were going in circles, Vincent changed the subject, as he mentioned, "With all of your activities, I DO hope you STILL have time for our chess game this afternoon..."
To which, Jacob expounded, "Oh my, Our chess game! I had totally forgotten!"
Apologetically, Jacob then explained, "It appears I have been remiss Vincent, as I have promised to help Mary wind the yarn she just received. You see, we have to wind it into balls, because Mary says it makes it easier to utilize that way. And we also spoke about firming up the plans for all the upcoming Christmas events and activities as well."
Jacob then laughed, and in a reflective manner, he added, "Mary humorously noted, we will be killing two birds with one stone, or so to speak."
And as his Father carried on, Vincent couldn't help but think to himself, it sounded as if this task of winding yarn with Mary, pleased his Father more than the dinner date with Jessica!
So, Vincent continued to listen as Jacob went on to say, "I suppose someone else could help Mary with this winding task, however she claims no one else does the job as efficiently as I! She surmised it was because I am a doctor that I am so talented with my hands. Imagine that!"
Tipping his head in a thoughtful manner, Vincent suspiciously asked, "Hmmm, didn't you find Mary's comment...to be a bit on the flirtatious side Father?"
Trying to sound matter-of-factly, Jacob managed to answer, "Flirtatious? Why no, I hadn't viewed it that way."
Upon hearing his Father's response, Vincent raised a brow, and in a disbelieving tone, noted, "Father really now, I never knew you to be a naive man."
Blushing a tad, Jacob then reluctantly admitted, "In truth, I did think the comment was bordering on this side of flirtatiousness, however I discounted that notion, being it was Mary who said it."
To which Vincent suggested, "Well Father...perhaps you should re-think that notion, since you do have a sense of how Mary feels."
Suddenly, all this analysis made Jacob nervous, and so in wanting to change the subject, Jacob told his son, "Ahh, that's enough counseling for now Vincent! Honestly, you do seem to enjoy delving lately!"
In a resigned manner, Vincent replied, "All right Father. No move delving, but I do need to remind you, that you are supposed to be taking it easy!"
To which Jacob quizzically asked, "I thought I was! What are you referring to?"
With a judgmental tone, Vincent listed, "I am referring to your itinerary...visits with Jessica, plans to help Mary, well it would seem betwixt the two women, you certainly have your hands full."
As they now stepped into the dining Hall, a blushing Jacob said, "No pun intended, I hope Vincent!"
With a smile in his eyes, Vincent tipped his head in a touché type manner, and said, "No pun intended."
And then with concern, Jacob asked, "Since I had so regretfully forgotten about our plans for the afternoon, what will you do to occupy yourself?"
Thoughtfully Vincent answered, "I will begin work on my Christmas gift for Catherine. I have a few ideas, and plan on enlisting Mouse's help with one of my notions. And speaking of Christmas Father..."
Vincent then mentioned, "...I've been thinking of our upcoming Christmas festivities, and of how it may be in order for Catherine and Charles to receive an official invitation for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day as well."
With a thoughtful hand to his chin, Jacob concurred, saying, "I assumed they knew they were invited, especially Catherine, however you are right son, an actual verbal is definitely in order! I shall invite Charles tonight, and when next I see Catherine I will invite her as well. Of course in the meantime, if you want to invite Catherine before I have the opportunity, then please do."
With a nod, Vincent was pleased about this, and then Jacob clarified, "So you say you are going to work on Catherine's Christmas gift with your ahem...freed up afternoon?"
Saying he was, Vincent then added, "And if time allows, I may go to the Falls to catch up on a little reading. You have always told me, solitude replenishes the soul."
In agreement, Jacob nodded, and said, "Indeed it does."
And so in conclusion, Jacob with relief synopsized, "Well, very good then. Since I know you have an alternate itinerary, I don't feel nearly as guilty about forgetting our game."
To which Vincent asked, "Guilty? Is it not written that guilt is a useless emotion?"
And because he had read this theory as well, Jacob discounted the quote, by telling his son, "So they say, however, I do believe a touch of guilt on occasion, helps to keep us in touch with our humane nature, and urges us to do the right thing."
In agreement, Vincent nodded, as he said, "You could be right Father...an interesting and thought provoking argument on the side of implementing the ostracized guilt trip."
Vincent then feigned to be up lifted, as he asked, "So Father...since you felt a twinge or two of guilt yourself for forgetting our chess match, does this mean our game is back on this afternoon?"
With a shaking of his head, Jacob shifted his eyes, and with flair, abruptly said, "No Vincent...it does not!"
And because of Jacob's style, Vincent was quite tickled, and so the two, Father and son shared a hearty laugh.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Meanwhile, Catherine and her entourage, had a great day in the Holiday decorated city. Catherine and Jennifer took Robert and Gertrude firstly out to the most well known shops in Manhattan. Namely Tiffany's, and then on to Lord and Taylor, sauntered on to Saks Fifth Avenue, stopped at the sophisticated Bergdorf Goodmannd, and made a grand showing at the famous Macy's. Where they all went in together to buy a gift for Willie, to thank her for cooking for them tonight.
And while they each picked up some other special Christmas gifts from these notable stores, they also thoroughly enjoyed all the different flavors of design, of which the window dressers exhibited for their Christmas displays. They were all so bright and festive, and of course Gertrude and Robert took many pictures along the way.
So as they shopped, they passed by Trump Tower, and of course Robert knew a few stats about it, saying, "Trump Tower has 58 floors, and is 664 feet tall and it took from 1979-1986 to complete, and it cost 300 million to build!" And then as they passed by Carnegie Hall, Robert knew some stats about the hall too! Mentioning, "Did you know this building was built by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie back in 1891? Oh yeah, AND the main hall seats 2,804 on five different levels, and in fact, I read that it was just renovated in 1986! What a great piece of architecture, uh?"
To which Jennifer agreed, and then comically noted, "I guess if you are rich enough to build a place like this, you may as well name it after yourself!"
Everyone shared a chuckle at Jennifer's joking, and then Robert asked, "I think I have had my fill of shopping, anyone else getting hungry?"
Compliantly, the girls were all on the same page as Robert, and because Catherine wanted to include some sightseeing too, she suggested they eat lunch near the Empire State building, so they could visit the famous landmark before going to the Rockefeller Centre to see the Christmas Tree.
To which Jennifer asked, "Where do you think we should have lunch Cath...I'm trying to think of some places that are near by The Empire State building.
So upon checking her guide book, Catherine saw there was a place called, State Grill and Bar which is right in the building.
Deciding as a group that this place sounded pretty convenient, they headed for the Empire State Building!
Upon arriving at the legendary structure, they found the entrance for the restaurant, and were happy to finally sit down.
So after studying the menu, the girls decided on a lighter fare, and each prospectively ordered, a Cobb, a Chicken Chop Chop and a Caesar Salad, however Robert was pretty hungry, so he ordered a State Beef Burger with Tater Tots.
So as they sat enjoying their lunch, sipping their cappuccinos, espressos, and lattes, the four of them spoke about the play they would be seeing tonight, and how excited they were about going.
To which Gertrude said, "I still can't get over it! We are going to see The Phantom!! Uncle Charley must be the best Uncle in the world!"
In agreement, Robert smiled as he said, "Pretty great all right! But then again, Uncle Charles has always been loads of fun all through our lives, planning joint family vacations and such."
Turning a bit serious, Robert then noted, "And thank heavens he is tough and resilient too! I mean that food poisoning can take a lot out of you. But it sounds like he bounced right back!"
Assuredly Catherine said, "Yes...he is really doing good now, but I have to tell you, when I got the call, I was pretty scared."
And then looking over at Jennifer, she gave her friend kudos by saying, "And if Jen hadn't been there with me when I got THAT call...I don't know what I would have done."
Turning to Gertrude and Robert, Catherine added, "Jen took care of all that I couldn't right then and there. She loaded up Noodles, and told me not to worry, she would take him over to her Mom's."
With emotion, Jennifer said, "Awe...just so glad I was there..."
Catherine gave her friend a grateful smile, and continued, "When I left, I really didn't know what Dad's ailment was, and it was not until after I arrived at the hospital, that they were certain it had been food poisoning..."
And then Catherine continued, "...and although, food poisoning can be very serious, I was really thankful that's all it was."
Sympathetically, Gerty said, "Yes...what a horrible ordeal for you to go through alone, you should have let Mom and Dad come!"
With a nod, Robert then revealed, "You know, Mom and Dad were this close to going down there to be with you even though you told them not to, but before they could get a flight confirmation, you had called with the all clear."
Catherine acknowledged her Aunt and Uncles' kind offer, and then said, "If Dad's prognosis hadn't been what it was, believe me...I would have needed your Mom and Dad with me, but Dad was released so quickly, there was no reason for them to come. And Dad really didn't want to put your Mom and Dad through what he refers to as Pure Travel Hell."
Everyone laughed at Charles reference to travel these days, and then Catherine mentioned, "Speaking of Dad, he and Willie will be looking for us in a about four hours, so I guess we better get moving again. Are you all ready for a long elevator ride up to the top of the Empire State Building?"
Saying they were, they then headed for the lobby, and as they walked, Robert mentioned, "Hey interestingly enough, it really is not a long ride! In fact it only takes a minute to reach the 86th floor! So hang onto your lunch!"
To which Catherine responded, "Oh really! Wow that's something."
Upon which Gertrude asked, "I thought the building is 102 stories high...aren't we going to the top?"
Catherine was about to share what she had just learned about this, but there was no need, because Robert was on it! And so Robert informatively shared, "The 102nd story observatory is under renovations, so sorry sis, 86 floors is as high as we go!"
In reply, Gertrude nervously answered, "Well really that's fine with me! 86 stories is high enough!"
"Besides..." Says Jennifer, "The 86th floor is kinda iconic. It's where the movie scenes were filmed for An Affair to Remember, and Sleepless in Seattle."
And because she is such a movie buff, Gertrude replied, "Well I like that!"
In unison, they then boarded the elevator, and Robert happily shared, "Hey here's a fun fact, The Empire State Building has 1,860 steps from street level to the 102nd floor! So be glad we are taking an elevator!"
To which Jennifer said, "Woa, I sure am!"
So as the doors closed, they zipped on up to the 86th floor, and they were beyond words as the doors opened, at the spectacle before them! Saying they were definitely thrilled to witness this site! And then of course Robert knew some factoids about the view too, and so he shared, "They say on the clearest of days, visibility from the Observatories is 80 miles, with five states in view, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Massachusetts. And if you want to know about the construction, according to this plaque, it says that the ground breaking began on March 17, 1930, and construction of the building took only one year and 45 days from the setting of the tower's first steel columns on April 7, 1930, to the completed building by March 31, 1931, a full month before the official opening ceremonies. This was the fastest construction to date for a project of its scale. And I find it amazing that they averaged constructing 4-1/2 stories per week. And I also read that more than 7 million man hours were logged in for it's construction."
The girls loved hearing this info, and meantime, while Robert talked, they took turns looking through the binoculars, which really added to their awesome experience.
And so since time was of the essence, Catherine rallied, "Well, I hate to leave, but if we are going to fit in Rockefeller Center yet, we better get going. Is everyone ready to continue on?"
And because they all were ready, they first asked a fellow site-seer to take a group photo to commemorate their visit at the top of the Empire State Building! And then traveled in the elevator once again.
After reaching the ground floor, they all had to catch their breath from this exhilarating experience! And so after excitedly voicing a few view points, opinions, and observances, they bade the Empire State Building a fond adieu!
So they next headed for the Herald Square Subway Station to hitch a ride on the subway, which was an experience both the cousins wanted to have!
Yes, so both Jennifer and Catherine agreed, the subway train from the Herold Square Station would take them the closest to the Rockefeller Centre, home of New York City's official Christmas Tree.
So as they buzzed along the tracks, both Gertrude and Robert were wide eyed, and excited by all they saw. And so as they disembarked the subway car, they walked onward, about 4 minutes or so to their next destination.
And as they arrived at the centre, they, at the same time, were treated to the illuminated Saks Building too! So after gazing at the Saks building which was donning a zillion twinkling snowflakes, Gertrude turned to next marvel at the Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree, to which she dreamily said, "I would have loved to have seen the official lighting of this tree!"
Feeling equally enthralled with the trees magnificence, Catherine mentioned, "I know! I feel badly I missed this year. But we have a nice long time to enjoy it, because it'll stay lit till January sixth."
To which Gertrude said, "If I lived in Manhattan, I would come here every day! It is so beautiful!"
In reply, Catherine and Jennifer, said, although they certainly don't come everyday, they do go by it quite often, and never tire of this magnificent splendor of the tree along with the traditional horn-blowing angels.
Luckily, since it was their last stop of the day, the winter sun was setting upon the city. And so Robert and Gerty, were able to truly appreciate the beauty of the Rockefeller Square Christmas Tree.
To which Robert spouted some stats, by sharing, "There are 78,000 lights on this tree, you know that this Christmas tradition began in 1933!"
Amazed by Roberts knowledge, Jennifer expounded, "Oh really I didn't know that! Here I am, THE New Yorker, and an out-of-towner, is the one informing me!"
Proudly Robert stated, "I did my homework Jennifer!"
As Jennifer walked backward gazing up at the beautifully lit tree, she accidentally bumped into a group of ladies.
After Jennifer apologized, one of the ladies in turn said, no worries, it was just as much their fault too!
As Catherine turned to the group of nice ladies, one of them looked at her, and Catherine looked back, and after an awkward moment of silence, they both realized it was all right to acknowledge they knew each other, and so Jessica spoke first, by warmly saying, "Hello Catherine."
To which Catherine replied in kind, and after introductions were made all around, Catherine turned to Evelyn, and told her how nice it was to meet her, and how very kind it was of her to send her Dad the "Get Well" wishes and beautiful flowers.
To which Evelyn replied, "I am just so happy he is okay. Imagine how badly I felt to learn he had gotten food poisoning from the restaurant I had picked out!"
Assuredly Catherine said Evelyn shouldn't feel responsible, and then added, "I know Dad wouldn't want you to feel that way. It can happen in the finest of restaurants."
In response, Evelyn humbly looked over at Sylvia, and then to Jessica as she explained, "I have eaten at that restaurant for years, and wouldn't you know the one time I take a nice gentlemen friend there, he gets sick!"
And then Evelyn added, "Well Cathy, all I can say, is that your father is a very nice, and understanding man...I can't believe he is willing to go out with me again..."
To which Sylvia spoke up, and as she addressed the group, she teasingly said, "Only because Jessica promised she will be the one to pick where we go this time."
Everyone laughed, and even Evelyn, laughed a humble chuckle too.
Upon changing the subject, Catherine said, "I hope you have enjoyed the city as much as we have today! Since Gerty and Robby are visiting too, it is fun seeing our everyday landmarks through new eyes."
In response, the three ladies said they did indeed enjoy their day in the Big Apple, and then Jessica added, "And as you say Catherine, seeing everything through my two pals eyes, has given me a new perspective, and I am learning a few things I never knew before too!"
To which Jennifer compliantly replied, "Yes, me too! I am learning things about my own home town, from this brilliant guy right here! And he knows so much about this tree! You should tell them the stats Rob!"
And so Robert did! And all the while the ladies oohed and aaahed at the info he spewed out, and they all gazed up at the tree now with even more admiration!
As the chit chat resumed, Catherine then asked, "What are your plans for the rest of the day?"
To which Jessica said, "Well...after we dine, we will be going to the Majestic to see the Phantom!"
Upon hearing this scoop, Catherine looked about at her comrades, and excitedly told Jessica's bunch, that her Dad was taking them to the play as well! And then sweetly added, "I hope we see you later on at the theater."
To which the ladies agreed, and said, they would defiantly be looking for them.
So...as the two groups parted, going in separate directions, Catherine stopped, and turned to look back, and at the same moment Jessica did too, and they shared a knowing smile and with a nod, they turned back to join their companions.
As the shopping/sightseeing day wound down, they stopped at Catherine's apartment to drop off their shopping bags full of treasures, and to pickup the garb they would be wearing to the theater. And so because Catherine still had hot rollers, and a curling iron back home at her Dad's, she mentioned they needn't worry about taking anything like that, but only gathered their other necessities, they put it all into a single duffel and Catherine zipped it up.
So conservatively, the girls next consolidated their dresses into one garment bag, and meanwhile, Robert flung his garment bag over his shoulder, and as he also grabbed his suitcase he agreed, they were ready to go.
And it was then Gertrude remembered Willie's gift! And so she said, "OH what about Willie's gloves? We need to get them ready! Do you have a gift bag for them Cathy?"
Well luckily, Catherine did, and so she said, "Thank you for remembering Gerty! We would have been so disappointed if we had forgotten them." Of course Jennifer helped too, by locating the pair of leather Michael Kors gloves in one of the Macy's bags, and then wrapped them in the green tissue paper, and placed them in the cute little Christmas bag Catherine handed her.
Now being officially ready, Catherine looked at her watch, she proudly said, "Dad will be so impressed! We should be right on time!"
To be continued
Chapter Fourteen
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| Treasure of my Heart! By Sharon Holtz Chapter Thirteen __________________________________________ |
