Crashing Stephanie

15 The Wolf Killer

Diary Day 135: I am going to make one more "last post" in this journal to bring it to a close. I am hoping this new journey I am on will last a lifetime.

It's been three months since Tom and I walked out of that wilderness. Yes, I am still in Kentucky. I moved in with Paul, and I couldn't be happier. With Margaret, Suz, and Alice's help, I am learning to do all the things that I used to pay people to do. To be honest, I find it rewarding to be able to do things for myself.

Like everyone else, I don't like cleaning the bathrooms. Paul helps out with the cleaning, but his idea of "helping" often involves us hugging, kissing, and, well, you know, other things. Not that I mind!

I enjoy cooking, and under Margaret's supervision, I am becoming a decent cook. The first month, though, the results were not so good. I'd leave something out of the recipe, get the measurements wrong, undercook, or burn our dinner to a crisp.

I would cry, and Paul would hold me, say something comforting, and then take me out for dinner or call for pizza delivery. Paul is such a sweetheart!

Oh, what I would have given for pizza delivery when Tom and I crossed that tundra!

Paul and I have been saying "I love you" for a while, and last night, Paul slipped a "when we get married" into our conversation. He's been acting a little nervous lately, so maybe an engagement soon? I hope so! I can't wait to marry Paul! I know I have Earl and Margaret's approval, as they already refer to me as their new daughter.

Oh! We found the perfect outfit for Suz, and she was drop-dead gorgeous. I paid to have her hair, nails, and makeup done by some of the best - who they were and from where they came will never be revealed - especially to Earl, who insists that he pay for everything. It's becoming a game between me and Earl to see what I can sneak by him.

Earl catches me paying for things sometimes and fusses a little but doesn't really get mad. Earl may be as tough as a brick on the outside, but he is a marshmallow on the inside where it counts. It is easy to see why Margaret loves him so much.

Suz's date (Mike) could barely speak when he saw her. Paul and his brothers were there and stood for her when she walked into the room. Suz looked so happy and confident. Never underestimate the effect the right outfit can have on someone. Suz and Mike are so cute together. They are seeing each other regularly now.

My Mom and Dad visited a few days after I decided to stay here with Paul. The visit went very well. Mom and Dad really like Paul, and Dad said I never looked happier. They've been back several times, and Mom and Margaret have had many secret phone conversations. I suspect they are planning a wedding!

I see my parents much differently and appreciate them more now. My Mom and I are closer than ever. They really are wonderful people and parents.

Best of all, there is no sign of the old Steph! I am officially listing her as having died in a plane crash.

My "adopted big brother" Tom stopped by on his way to some photo thing in Chicago. We had a big dinner at Margaret's house, and Tom spent the whole evening telling stories of my exploits in the wilds of Alaska. I am now officially known as "The girl who fished naked in Alaska." I'm not kidding. They voted on it. I countered with "Wolf Killer" as that sounded much more fearsome but was out-voted by everyone, even Suz - that little traitor!

Tom told me that his ex-fiancé showed up at his mother's store just before he returned from Alaska. His mom, in no uncertain terms, told Tom's ex-fiancé to get lost and not too gently threw her out of the store. Tom's mom sounds like a lady I need to meet. I guess I will not have to murder Tom after all.

Tom, Paul, and I are planning a trip to that same resort next year. We will be much more selective about our plane and pilot this time! Tom already checked, and there is no bus service to the resort.

Just keep taking those next steps. They got me here, and they will get you where you need to go. You never know what (or who) awaits you just around the next corner!

The End.
Stephanie, a.k.a. The Wolf Killer (who also fishes naked).

Thank you very much for reading!