Angelica slept for the first part of the ride. Bette and Tina listen to music, hold hands, talked and laugh. Both feel the love and the comfort that has made them what they are today: Friends and lovers forever. Tina was overwhelmed by the all of the good news from Ingrid as well as their newly established legal partnership. Bette was no longer just her partner in her heart, but that certificate had inexplicably moved her. She did indeed want that piece of paper, it truly means something to her. This vacation would mark the start of yet another new phase of their life together. She said a silent prayer of thanks as she truly believes there is some divine force guiding their lives. Things were just too good to believe it was all just luck. They arrive at the house just after dark. They had left the porch light on for them which was a big help in getting into the house.

Tina: This is just gorgeous, like something out of a story book.

Bette: Yes, new England definitely has its charm. Let’s get inside.

Bette unlocks the door and Tina carries the baby inside the house. The house was warm and welcoming and the gang had left a note.

Dear Bette and Tina,

Welcome to our “home”. Please make yourselves at home while you’re here. We’ve left a few gifts. Congratulations on your Domestic Partnership.

J, J, T & B

Tina: Oh they left some snow toys for Angelica and the cutest little mittens.

Bette: They know you need a back up pair for serious snow work. Let me go unload the car while you get the baby settled. We can start a fire once she’s in bed.

Bette takes about 15 minutes to unload everything and Tina sets up the Pack-n-Play and baby monitor once they are brought inside. They begin to put away the groceries when Bette discovers a bottle of champagne chilling in the fridge. She smiles at the site. She also notice they had left milk, eggs and some fresh produce so they wouldn’t need to make a grocery stop tonight.

Bette: I know we’ve been on the road all afternoon and just got here, but I’d rather go out to eat tonight. There is a local diner here that has amazing chowder.