Hmm we use to make all of those cookies, although usually put one of those huge chocolate chips in the middle of the thumb print, lol

First off, what an apt description. for Tara to make about Bobby! I have a bouncing Tigger that goes Whohoohoo and I think that's exactly what Tara's thinking inside every time Bobby kisses her!

But Missy -- what do you mean by this?She threw a teddy bear at the door?! As in using an innocent stuffed animal as a projectile in an act of rage?!

kav

Yum! I can smell those cookies baking.

Enjoying this story, althought it's making me hungry.

Thanks for the J/S moments.

oops... sorry Kav... did I forget to mention it was a bear she'd made at the buildabear store and named Myles when she was dating him? (Not that senseless violence against teddy bears is ever acceptable in any culture.... ) Blame Myles for being rude! Lucy didn't want to endanger Levi's paws by accidently breaking something and not being able to get the shards all out of the carpet..... anyway... isn't it fun that so many of our trains of thought lead to cookie baking at the holidays? I found my funny bone tickled by how many times that popped up in someone's story...
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When they’d finished all the prep work on the cookies, they stacked them all up on the counter in a baking order. While those were baking, they could now decorate the cooled sugar cookies. Sue had kept it simple and only cut out snowmen and Christmas trees. “So that way we don’t drive ourselves crazy!” She quipped, as they all laughed. “Although, we might have bypassed crazy and gone straight to insane an hour ago.” She said, thoughtfully.

Everyone claimed a stack of plain cookies and positioned bowls of frosting and trimmings between themselves. They chatted easily about holiday traditions from their childhoods while they frosted and sprinkled their cookies. Bobby swallowed a laugh when he saw how carefully Tara was decorating a tree. He bent down and whispered in her ear. “Tara luv, that’s quite the tree you’re creating there.”

Tara looked up at him and smiled. She looked around and caught him by surprise when she shoved it into his mouth, making him eat half of the cookie before she ate the other half herself. Bobby looked at her quizzically until she giggled and reached up to wipe a trace of frosting from the corner of his lip. “It’s a cookie. It shouldn’t be regarded as quite the tree, it’s only destiny is to be eaten.” She explained patiently, with a shrug.

What happened next, caught them all a little by surprise. Sue had just finished with the last cookie and had been holding her knife out while she looked over at Lucy, talking with her as she put the last trays of cookies into the oven. Jack had spoken to her without realizing that she wasn’t looking, so Levi nudged her gently towards Jack’s direction. His nudge jostled her arm that she was holding the knife in and a blob of frosting dislodged from the knife and launched itself in Jack’s direction, landing with a splat on his shirt. Sue gasped and set the knife down. “Oh, Jack…I’m sorry!” she said, barely hiding her grin.

Jack arched a brow at her. “Oh, you’re gonna get it now!’ he said with a wink, as he picked up a handful of frosting and flung it at her. His wink had weakened her knees just enough so that she dipped down, just as the frosting would have hit her. Instead, it hit Lucy, who was standing behind her.

Lucy’s eyes were wide as she reached for some frosting. “Jack Hudson!” she screeched. “I can’t believe you just did that!” she flung the frosting at him, but her aim was off and she hit Bobby instead. And so it went, Bobby accidentally frosted Tara when D jostled his arm, Tara’s shot went wide and hit D. D’s efforts to ice his wife went long and got Myles. Myles got off a shot that would have hit D, but Donna straightened up suddenly and she got a face full of white icing. And Donna completed the circle when she scraped frosting from her face and flung it towards Myles only to have it end up hitting Sue. They all looked around the once spotless kitchen and started to laugh at how ridiculous they looked. Well, except for Myles. The look on his face was enough to melt even the most sturdy of snowmen. He muttered something about childish behavior before stalking off towards the bathroom.

LOL ok i wish i was there, that would have been fun

Although i am sure the kids think they are nuts

A build it bear That's even worth -- it's like saying it's alright to throw your own child against the door because it's yours! Sorry -- when I was a little girl my sister controled me by threatening violence to my teddy bears. I was her slave and am still traumatized by it!

Food fights are fun. Evreryone should indulge. It's very theraputic. I had a pea flinging party once. We used our forks as catapults. Dogs loved it. A couple of crazy women reverting back to childhood and one childhood who got to have a food fight instead of the old adage "Don't play with your food." Plus the dogs got fed. A good time was had by all! (though I would like to insert here that I have never held a bear throwing party ).

Poor Myles I had hoped the creative release of flinging icing would have released what ill he harbors inside, but alas, this just isn't his season is it?

kav

The author wishes to post the following disclaimer: No teddy bears or other stuffed toys were harmed in the writing of this story. Any similarities to real life situations or persons are completely fictional and were made up for the express usage of this story. Please send all complaints to I/Pax tv as it is only due to their lack of showing Sue Thomas FBEye that the author is forced to fill in the blanks. She's sure that their excellent writing team would not have resorted to filling in a blank with a teddy bear. Once again, no emotional or psychological trauma was intended for the readers. Please accept this additional post in the authors most sincerest apologetic manner.
And now we return to our regularly scheduled story.....
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Myles resisted the urge to slam the bathroom door. It would have been a childish gesture. “Childish gesture!” he snorted, looking at his frosting spattered shirt. He also noted the flecks of frosting that dotted his face. He rolled his eyes and set about cleaning his face. He wasn’t 100% sure about why he’d even bothered to come tonight. It’s not like he’d been in any sort of holiday mood. He hung his head. He’d been a pain. He knew it, but he didn’t have a clue as to how he’d go about apologizing. What would he say? What COULD he say? He’d scoffed at them, made put down remarks that were unsolicited and unwarranted. Heck, even tonight, he’d driven Lucy out of the kitchen until she could stand him again. Myles hung his head lower. ‘Dear God." He thought. I am more of a Grinch than our perp was. If only I had some way of deserving your assistance.’ Now, Myles was not brought up in a church and even when given the choice, he often chose to ignore the clanging of the church bells and remain at home, trying to sort out his teammates happiness while wondering exactly what Koala Boy had that he, in all his money could afford him, did not.

“Myles, it’s about time you chose to ask for help.” A soft voice interrupted his monologue.

Myles started. He looked around wildly, his gaze falling on a young woman standing by the shower. “Who? What are you…?” he blustered. “This is a private bathroom. I don’t even know you, let alone know how you got into this home.” He finally got out.

Julie chuckled. This was going to be more fun than she thought it would be. “Myles.” She said gently, as a warm glow filled the room. “You finally asked for help. God has sent me to show you what you need.”

Myles frowned. “I don’t need anything, thank you very much.” He lied, trying to put up a front.

Julie frowned back at him. “Oh? Did you not just ask God if there was some way you deserved his assistance to apologize to your friends?” she arched a brow at him. “You have been perfectly horrid to them, you know. Lucy’s been worried about you. Even though the two of you are not together, she still cares about you as a friend.” She paused. “Is that what’s really bothering you? Seeing your friends together at Christmas and wishing you too, could be that happy?”

Myles hung his head, this girl… woman? Whatever she was had just condensed his entire attitude into one short sentence. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.” He said gruffly.

Julie studied him. “So much pain.” She murmured, more to herself than to him. She reached out a hand to him, touching his arm. She winced as she felt the heavy current of sadness transfer to her, shocking her so that she jumped back. “So much sadness.” She commented, puzzled. “Why Myles? Why are your heart and soul so filled with pain and sadness?”

Myles broke down then, pouring out his hurt that Anne had found someone to love and hadn’t wanted to spend any time with him this Christmas. He let loose his sadness that he’d screwed up with Lucy those 3 years ago, perhaps if he hadn’t… maybe he’d have retained a shred of holiday spirit and love. He touched on the lack of spiritual foundation, his hurt and sadness that his parents never took the time to care at the holidays the way the others parents did.

Julie stood still, touching his arm as he spoke. When he stopped speaking, she concentrated on sending peace and love to him, only to have it bounce right back at her. “Myles, you need to let go of it all. You’ve built quite an impressive fortress there. You need to give all of your hurt and pain to God. Allow him to carry the burden for you.” She said softly.

“But I don’t know how.” Myles whimpered. “I’ve never been one to turn to God. That’s something for Sue and Tara, not me.”

Julie smiled. “Oh, Myles…” she shook her head. “For God so loved the world that he GAVE his only Son. That whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” She said. “That’s John 3:16. Did you hear that? God so loved the WORLD!” she said excitedly. “That includes you, Myles! God’s love and comfort are there, you just need to accept them.” Myles looked at her, a faint smile starting to form. “That’s it Myles. Come on now; give up the pain and hurt. Give it all up to God.” Julie smiled at him as she started to feel his pain and sorrow fade, allowing her to send him the peace he so desperately craved. Their eyes met in the mirror. “Myles, dear… Please try to remember your team loves you. Don’t hesitate to ask one of them for help. I believe Sue has already offered?” She reminded him.

Myles gasped lightly. That’s right, Sue had offered to go over things with him. His mind at peace, he smiled at the girl. Julie gave him one more smile and disappeared. Myles looked around, stunned to see he was alone. As he studied his reflection in the mirror, he could see that his eyes sparkled with a newfound peace and he felt his holiday cheer roll over him for the first time this holiday season. “Childish gesture indeed.” He chuckled as he opened the door and headed back into the kitchen.

Thank you for the disclaimer. It makes me feel moderately better, though I still am suffering from uncontrollable intermittent shivers. but that could be because it's cold outside. Now Myles has had a "touch by an angel" moment and he's filled with the Christmas spirit at last. That definitely warms me up. Hope he talks to Lucy first.

kav

The cookie making was fabulous, the food fight was funny! And Myles has finally had some divine intervention from Julie! Poor Myles, no wonder he wasn't into the Christmas spirit.

Take care,

Sairs

Didn't mean to leave anyone hanging on edge.... there's some holiday that happened yesterday and all the libraries were closed.... leaving poor little me to just spend time writing on the conclusion.... should be able to be completely finished today... further adding to my posting frenzy for tomorrow...
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They could only stare in amazement when Myles rejoined them, whistling a holiday tune. Bobby and Tara exchanged glances, wondering what had happened. They’d all been certain that he would have just gathered his coat and stormed out, upset at the fact that he got frosted. But he cheerfully grabbed a towel and helped to rinse the frosting off of the counter. A huge amount of tension lifted and they returned to the light-hearted chatting about their favorite childhood memories. As they got ready to take the teacakes out of the oven, everyone prepared themselves with bowls of powdered sugar. They quickly rolled each cookie while it was hot so that the sugar would melt into a frosting like state. Once the cookies cooled completely, they would be rolled again to clouds of powdery snowiness.

It happened so quickly that they would all be hard pressed to pinpoint exactly what had happened. Lucy was trying to get Sue’s attention, but with so much chatting going on, Levi didn’t know what he was supposed to be notifying Sue about. So she finally tossed a little powdered sugar in her direction, forgetting that powdered sugar doesn’t really fly in a proper route or direction. She ended up giving Myles such a powdering that he sneezed, further distributing the sugar onto his shirt. They all winced and held their breath waiting for him to explode. To their great shock and joy, he started to laugh and grabbed a handful of sugar to throw back at Lucy. That was the end of all civility as the great powdered sugar war of 2006 broke out.

When all was said and done, they laughed to see how white-haired they’d become. Myles couldn’t stop laughing and cheerfully…. Again… grabbed a towel to help clean up the mess. By the time they finished, it was well after eleven and Tanya and Davey had fallen asleep in the living room. So they quickly assembled a huge platter of cookies to take to work and divvied up the remaining cookies into decorative tins so that they all had a tin of their own to take home. Exchanging good-nights and see you tomorrow’s… D took his family home and Myles slipped out the door with them. Tara worked quickly to disassemble the laptop and DVD player so she could take them home. Bobby happily took the carrying bags from her as she picked up the cookie tins and gave Lucy a quick hug. They exchanged laughs as they squeezed their way past a lip locked Jack and Sue who were saying good night out in the hallway.

Bobby drove Tara home and as he was leaning over for a good night kiss, Tara surprised him by murmuring “Stay.”, against his lips.

Bobby pulled back and looked at her. “Are you sure?” he asked, knowing that this was not usually a night of the week that she wanted company.

Tara smiled and brushed a little powdered sugar off his shoulder. “Yes. It’s late… much later than we’d thought it would be. Besides, you have clothes here anyway.” She raised a brow at him. “Muffins for breakfast?” she offered, knowing that he couldn’t resist her muffins.

Bobby rolled his eyes. “Well now you’ve gone and done it.” He teased, turning off the car so he could go upstairs. He grabbed her bags and followed her up the stairs.
Tara took the laptop and DVD player from him when they got in side. She waited while he hung up his coat and took hers to hang up as well. “You’ve got powdered sugar all over you.” She commented, brushing at his shoulder again. “Why don’t you go ahead and grab a shower. I’m just going to prep breakfast a bit.” She told him.

“Yeah, sure. Hey… why is it that you don’t have as much sugar on you?” he asked, puzzled by the fact that she was barely powdered.

Tara smirked. “You know the agreement. I need a kiss before I can tell you that.” She squealed when Bobby grabbed her around the waist and dragged her closer so that he could capture her lips for a demanding kiss.

“Well?” He asked when he pulled away.

She stared up at him blankly. “Wha… What?” she stammered because he’d driven all sensible thoughts from her brain.

Bobby smirked and kissed her forehead. “Ah…I did it again, didn’t I?” he asked. “Driven all senses away?” she nodded. “It’s ok, Tara luv. You were just going to tell me why you don’t have as much sugar on you.” He knocked his forehead lightly against hers. “Better tell me or I’ll be collecting a refund.” He teased.

Tara shook her head, clearing the cobwebs that had rolled in during his fog inducing kiss. “Right.” She said. “Well for starters, I was wearing a sweatshirt that’s now in that bag.” She pointed at the tote bag she’d used as a purse tonight. “And it was hooded so at the first puff of sugar, I pulled the hood on.” She said with a grin. “I slipped the hood off as soon as the sugar started to settle.” Tara giggled. “Now, get moving! You know where the towels are.” She gave him a shove towards the bathroom.

Once she’d prepped the things she’d need to make muffins in the morning, she quickly changed into some Tigger pajamas and crawled into bed, reading while she waited for him to finish. She heard the whirring of the hair dryer and set the book aside. Tara grinned at him when he came out dressed for bed. Bobby winked at her. “There, all sugar free now. Happy?” he asked.

“Aw… just get into bed why don’t you.” Tara complained teasingly, as she tried to stifle a yawn.

Bobby crawled under the quilt, but on top of the sheet like usual. He reached up and turned off the light before lying down and allowing her to snuggle into his arms. “Tara luv?” he asked.

“Yeah, Koala Boy?” she asked, sleepily. “You’re not like, planning on talking all night, are you?”

Bobby chuckled. “No…” he said, pressing a kiss to her temple. “I was just wondering if you found it as strange as I did, that Myles could be in such a different mood by the end of the evening.”

Tara thought for a moment. “It was odd.” She agreed. “I don’t think there was anything unusual in the frosting. We may just have to wait and see if he’s still in a good mood in the morning.” She yawned.

“True. But do you think…” He was cut off by Tara placing her finger on his lips.

“I thought you said you weren’t going to talk all night?” she complained. He felt her shift upward in the bed and lean over him. “You know I love you, but baby, you’ve just got to shut up.” She told him, bending down to kiss him.

Bobby chuckled as she pulled away and settled down in his arms again. “Good night, Tara luv.” He whispered, rubbing her back gently.

“Mmm hmm.” Tara mumbled sleepily as she fell asleep.

Maybe it was angel dust in the powdered sugar! That's the closest smilie I could get to blowing powdered sugar.

kav

perhaps....
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Friday 12/22… 11:30 pm… Gans house

D crawled into bed and pulled Donna into his embrace. He pressed a kiss to her temple. “So, how was girls night?” he asked.

Donna smiled. “Oh, we had a great time. We had dinner at Wong Foos. That nice Dr. Brennan and her friend Angela came as well. I think Tara wanted to check in with her and see how Agent Booth was doing.” She said.

“Oh, yeah. He was suspended for a week this month.” D commented. “So, things are well?”

“Well, Angela told Tara that Booth is no longer seeing Dr. Brennan and Angela’s supervisor.” Donna said.

D chuckled. “That’s a good start. And Tara was in her usual Tippy mode?”

Donna thought for a moment. “Well, sure. Tara is always so much more… Tara the closer it gets to Christmas. Why? Was Bobby depressed?”

“That’s just it. He was way too cheerful.” D said. “Between you and me, I think he’s planning something.”

Donna propped her chin up on his chest. “You think?” she asked.

“Well…” D said. “Yeah. They’re really good for each other. When they’re not on the same page, we all suffer.”

Donna nodded. “I remember your concern earlier.” She said. “It makes sense if you think about it. They’ve been partners for 9 years…”

“Friends… close friends for the last 5…” D continued her thoughts. “You know, they may not have actually been dating until October but they got closer after Darcy left and after Stanley took off.”

“Mm hmm.” Donna murmured softly.

“Did I tell you about that one time?” D asked. “When I found them in the conference room during that 3 week 24/7 in September?” Donna shook her head. D grinned and filled her in about how he’d gone looking for Bobby and found him asleep in the conference room holding a sleeping Tara in his arms. D chuckled. “I could see it coming back then.” He said.

“Time will tell, right?” Donna asked softly. D nodded. “Well I’m glad you had a good time. Myles was still ok?” she asked. She’d been just as alarmed as the team had been when she’d seen how scrooge like he’d been.

“Yep, back to the same old Myles. He even talked with Lucy today and apologized for snapping at her the way he did on Tuesday.” D said. Donna smiled. “So, why are we talking about the team?” he asked, pressing a series of kisses along her jaw. “When we could be…” D leaned close to her ear and whispered something to her that made her gasp his name and swat his chest. Any further protests on her part were cut off by D crushing his lips to hers and making good on the rest of his suggestion.

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Saturday 12/23… 4 pm… Julie’s place

“So, Jules, how are things going? On track to make your deadline?” Trinity inquired as she took a sip of coffee and grabbed a sugar cookie from the tin that Tara had given to Julie on Wednesday as an apology for how often she’d discovered them kissing.

Julie grinned. “Even better than expected. I’ll be home the day after Christmas.”

Trinity raised her brows in surprise. “That soon? I thought this was going to take a while. Tara and Bobby?” she asked.

“They’re great. Due to an assist from their friends. That Sue Thomas… well… she’ll make an excellent addition to our team someday if she accepts the offer when the time comes.” Julie said with a grin. “She encouraged the team to use the exact verses that I’d told Bobby and Tara to look up. On her own, can you believe it?”

Trinity smiled. “Ok, so they got themselves straightened out. What about Myles?”

Julie frowned slightly before grinning. “Oh, he’s kinda why I’m staying a little bit longer. I want to make sure he’s on the right track. Trin… you know what I mean, make sure it isn’t just a ‘Christmas’ thing.”

“True, sounds like you did it though. I’m proud of you Jules.” Trinity said. “How’d you do it? Get through to Myles?”

“Nothing to it. Just gotta know when you can pop into a locked bathroom every once in a while.” Julie laughed at Trinity’s shocked gasp. “Well, of course, that was after a little ‘Flying Frosting Basics 101’. So that he’d go into the bathroom.” She smiled as she fondly recalled the looks on the teams face when they were all frosted. “Oh, don’t worry. They were done frosting all the cookies before the fight started.” She clarified as she saw Trinity start to put her cookie down.

Trinity burst out laughing so hard it brought tears to her eyes. Julie joined in her laughter. “Jules…” Trinity gasped. “You’re just too much!” She said, wiping the tears from her eyes. “So, everything is on track?”

Julie smiled smugly. “Of course. Due to my tailing of Tara two weeks ago, Bobby purchased the exact ring she was saying was perfect. And due to a little undercover work last weekend, I was able to feed him all the details of my… well, Tara’s… dream proposal. And he’s busy today setting it up so he can propose tomorrow.”

Trinity applauded lightly. “Brilliant as usual.” She said. “Hate to eat cookies and run, but I drew a new assignment that I need to study up on the details. I’ll be in Canada working with someone who’s feeling a lot of pressure with her studies and from her friends who love the stories that she writes. Sometimes they put a lot of pressure on her to write for them when she needs to write essays on books for school. She’s been a bit down this holiday season so I’ll go and see what I can do to remind her to trust God with everything.” She hugged Julie. “I’ll be around though when you get home.”

Julie hugged her back. “Ok, Trin. See you soon.” She waved as Trinity shimmered out. Julie hummed to herself as she picked up their coffee cups and said a quick prayer for Trinity’s new charge. She hoped that all would go well and the girl would find a renewed sense of peace and love to go with the strength to face the coming year.

I love your story!



Sounds like someone on this board might be getting a little divine help.

Dr. Brennan, Angela... Bones!! i love that show. Great job!

Life is never boring for an angel, is it?

kav

angels never sleep...
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Sunday 12/24... 2 PM... Tara's

Tara studied her closet carefully. Bobby would be picking her up at 6. She sighed, 'It's not like he gave me anything to work with.' She thought. "How am I supposed to get ready for our first Christmas Eve together if he won't tell me what I should be ready for?" she groaned aloud. He'd only said to dress nice. But how nice was nice? She decided the only thing she could do is call on her best friends. She sighed again and picked up the phone. "It's Tara."

"Hey Sweetie. What's up?"

"Well, I know you have plans with your Grams today, but could you come over and help me for like an hour? It would mean a lot."

Lucy chuckled. "Sue's going to come too. She doesn't have plans with Jack until later, so we'll be there soon."

"Thanks!" Lucy chuckled again as she hung up the phone. Tara sighed in relief, 'I'm going to be rescued.' She did a happy dance around the living room.

Twenty minutes later, Tara opened the door to let them in. Levi padded over to his favorite corner and settled in for a nap, he was sure that they wouldn't need him for a while. "So, what DID he tell you?" Sue asked.

"Dress nice!" Tara groaned. "But how nice is nice supposed to be?"

"That is pretty wide open." Lucy commented. "Let's go see what you've got to work with." She linked arms with Tara and Sue took the other side as they headed off for a look into her closet.

Lucy and Sue poured over Tara's closet. "Oh, Tara... is this new?" Sue turned and held out the winter white skirt with the black lace overlay. Tara nodded. "I think we have a winner." Sue commented.

"Yes and this will go nicely with it." Lucy said as she held out the black, 3/4 sleeve, jersey knit shirt with the square lace insert covering what the deep scoop of the neckline would have exposed. "Black hose, black heels and your black jewelry." Lucy decided.

Tara grinned. "You're right. Should be nice enough for whatever." She smiled again and let them drag her into the bathroom so Sue could do her hair while Lucy worked on her makeup. Tara gasped when she saw what a beautiful job they'd done on her. "Oh, you guys! It's great!" She said, turning her head so she could look at her hair. "Fantastic! He won't know what hit him."

"As always, glad to help." Sue said, giving her a hug. "We should go, look... it's already 4." She exchanged a look with Lucy.

Lucy laughed. "Yeah, we gotta go." She hugged Tara as well. "Have a good time tonight, sweetie." She whispered in Tara's ear.

Tara grinned as she watched them leave. "Thanks again for your help! I don't know what I could ever do without you." She called after them, seeing Lucy sign what she'd just said to Sue. Tara closed the door and quickly painted her fingernails. Once those were completely dry she finished getting ready and got dressed. She'd just fastened her skirt when she heard him knock. 'How sweet... he has a key but decided to pick me up like an actual date.' she thought, giggling as she stepped into her strappy sandals.

"For you, Tara luv." Bobby said as he presented her with a bouquet of deep burgundy roses.

Tara took the flowers from him and buried her nose in them. "Thanks Bobby. They're beautiful." She looked up at him over the flowers.

Bobby's breath caught in his throat as he saw how beautiful she looked. "Tara..." he rasped.

She looked up at him innocently. "What, Koala Boy?" she raised a brow at him. "Let me put these in water and we can go, ok?" He nodded, watching her go into the kitchen.

Bobby decided he'd help by finding her black wool coat and getting it ready for her. He turned around just as she walked up. "Here." he said, holding her coat out while she shrugged into it. He watched her button it up before he pulled her close and kissed her tenderly. "Hey gorgeous." he murmured when they pulled apart.

"Hey yourself." Tara said as she stretched up and kissed him again. "Ready to go?" Bobby nodded and held the door for her as she wound a black scarf around her neck and walked out, locking the door behind them. He grabbed her hand and tucked it into his pocket, pulling her close as they walked to the car.

I see what you guys are doing... you're withholding comment until you manage to make me post the entire Christmas Eve situation..... Good thing for you that I adore my Christmas Eve with Bobby and Tara and will happily keep posting... because I only have one post left after their Christmas Eve and then we're done!
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"So, where are we going?" Tara asked, when he'd started driving.

Bobby smirked at her. "Wouldn't you like to know?" he teased.

"Uh, yeah. That's why I asked." She said, rolling her eyes. "This is another one of those nights that you're not going to tell me anything, isn't it?" She sighed.

"Ah, Tara luv." Bobby grabbed her hand and pressed a kiss to the back of it. "You know you love it." He held her hand the rest of the way to their destination.

When he let her out of the car, Tara smiled as she saw the familiar sign. "Aw, Koala Boy... not Hooters again." She teased.

Bobby rolled his eyes and kissed her forehead. "We're going to Cafe Aria and you know it. I had to beg pretty hard for a last minute reservation. But you know Libby..."

Tara giggled. "Yeah, I know Libby. What did you do? Send Jack over to wink at her?" She laughed harder at his pout. "Don't tell me you did....?" He nodded sheepishly. "Ah, my poor wounded Koala Boy..." She patted his arm gently. "Dimples and an accent are no match for those dark chocolate browns, are they?" She teased. Bobby pouted again, Tara stepped closer to him and tugged his head down closer so she could speak softly in his ear. "Good. Let Sue fight off the other chicks. I want to be the ONLY one susceptible to your every whim when you flash those dimples." She studied him carefully. "And your accent gets me every day, just like Jack's wink gets to Sue." He looked at her, a little surprised. Bobby had never witnessed this possessive side of Tara but he thought he kinda liked it. "So no worries if you ever can't get a reservation. Deal?" She asked, a little surprised herself at how firm she'd been.

Bobby grinned a slow, lazy grin that made his dimples appear and his green eyes twinkle. "Deal." he agreed before laying claim to her lips.

Tara pushed him back gently. "Now, we don't want to go and lose that Christmas Eve reservation that Jack worked so hard to secure for us, do we?" She grinned up at him as they walked into the Cafe.

Libby watched them from the other side of the dining room. In the two months that they'd been coming in, she'd observed as they grew in their relationship. They used to sit on opposite sides of the table, holding hands only when the food was not present. But now, they'd matured in their relationship, she mused. Sure the order was still for 2 pot roast dinners, salad with bleu cheese on the side, mashed, and biscuits with iced tea. But they'd changed. She would sit as close to him as her chair could possibly allow, her left hand holding his under the table as they both ate with only one hand. Libby supposed that it was an excellent thing that Jacob's rendition of Nana's pot roast was always fork tender. 'Otherwise, they'd need to drop hands to cut it." she chuckled. Libby sighed lightly at the romanticism of it all. She'd mistakenly thought they were married on their first visit. She had been shocked to find out it was their first official date. She started suddenly when she realized that Bobby was grinning at her, waiting for her to notice they were done eating. She scurried over to clear the plates and take their dessert order. "How was everything tonight?"

"Brilliant as usual." Bobby complimented. "We'll have the chocolate mousse pie... again."

"For here or boxed?" Libby teased. Usually they ended up taking dessert with them.

Tara smiled at the bubbly co-owner of Cafe Aria. "For here tonight, Libby."

Libby nodded and hurried away with the plates, only to return with their desserts and the check. "Whenever you're ready with that." she told Bobby, tapping the folder lightly. Bobby nodded absently as he watched Tara enjoy her first bite of her pie.

They ate their pie in silence, Bobby settled the bill halfway through. When they were finished, he glanced at the clock, a little surprised to see that they'd taken almost 3 hours to eat dinner. He chuckled softly and kissed the back of her hand when she looked up at him. "Ready to go, Tara luv?" he asked.

Tara grinned and nodded. He helped her with her coat and they headed out of the Cafe. "Thanks for everything Libby. Happy Christmas." Tara said as they left.

"Same to you!" Libby called after them as they headed out. She shook her head. Love sure could do crazy things to people. She laughed as she went to clear the table, staring down in stunned amazement at the $20 tip that had been left. She picked up the little card that was there as well.

'From our first date to the biggest night of our lives so far, Libby... you've been there. Thanks for letting Cafe Aria be our place for special dates. Thanks a million! Bobby Manning.'

Libby's eyes widened as she grinned. She'd been right. Tonight WAS special and totally worth holding out until he'd sent that nice Agent Hudson down to secure the reservation. She'd be hard pressed to see another such perfectly matched couple. Libby hummed along to the Christmas music as she finished up with the table.

Bobby on a romantic mission is compeltely

kav

I know... isn't Bobby just so completely... **Sigh** Anyway... the song below is 'This Gift' by 98 degrees. and now on to the most favoritist thing I think I've ever written....
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Bobby drove them through some brightly lit neighborhoods, pointing out various houses. Tara was starting to wonder why she'd had to dress nice. Not that she was complaining. He did look especially handsome tonight in his black dress shirt with the green tie that brought out the color of his eyes. 'He always cuts such a nice figure in a suit.' she mused. Tara noticed that the car had slowed to a stop and she looked at him. "Ok..?" she asked, seeing that they were in front of a totally dark house. She took a closer look at the house. "Bobby?" Tara looked puzzled. "Why are we in front of D's house? And why are his Christmas lights off?"

Bobby chuckled. "Can't pull anything over on you, can I?" he looked at her. "Just wait, ok?" He got out and came around to her side of the car, helping her out. He rolled down her window.

"You're going to make it all cold in there you know." She pointed out. Bobby just grinned at her and fiddled with the CD player.

He popped out of the car and shut the door. "You had questions. Let me answer them, please?" he looked at her, pulling her into his arms. "We are in front of D's because he was willing to help. And his Christmas lights are off because that's how he's helping me." Bobby kissed the tip of her nose. "Are you ready?" Tara smiled and nodded. Bobby took his arms from her briefly to lean back into the car and turn on the CD player. He pulled her back into his arms as the music began to play. "Just watch... ok?" He whispered in her ear as he held her close and nudged her to look at the house.

The snow is falling, the city is white
Your eyes are shining like diamonds tonight
And we're all alone, there's no one home
You're finally in my arms again
The night is silent, the moment is here
I couldn't ask for more than having you near
Cause I love you girl
I always will
And now I know the moment is right

As the song played, a smile began to play on Tara's lips as she recognized it. She glanced up at Bobby. He glanced down and pointed towards the house. The rooftop of D's house had just erupted into a riot of white twinkle lights. She giggled softly and squeezed his hand.


Cause I've been waiting to give this gift tonight
I'm down on my knees, there's no better time
It's something to last for as long as you live
Tonight I'm gonna give you all my heart can give

The left side of D's yard had just become the 100 acre woods. Tara gasped as lighted boards sprang to life as Tigger, Pooh, Eeyore and Piglet. She giggled at them in their holiday finery.

I thought I'd give you something shiny and new
I tried to find something worthy of you
But I realized, when I looked inside
There's some things that money can't buy
Oh no, I feel the magic whenever you're near
I feel it even more this time of the year Cause I love you girl
I always will
And now I know the moment is right

Tara was giggling wildly as the right side of the yard sparkled to life with dozens of colored twinkle lights as they appeared to stream from Tinkerbell's wand. Bobby kissed her cheek as she laughed, Tara was tickled that he would go to such efforts.


Cause I've been waiting to give this gift tonight
I'm down on my knees, there's no better time
It's something to last for as long as you live
Tonight I'm gonna give you all my heart can give

Bobby was pleased to see her delight with his handiwork. Jack, D and the kids had worked with him yesterday to help fasten each and every light into position. He turned her in his arms and took a step back as he waited for the chorus to end.

You know I'll always be true to you
And you know I'm the one you can turn to
Anytime, anyplace, or anywhere
You know that I'll always be there

Tara was puzzled at first when he pushed away, but as she registered the words that were playing and the fact that he'd dropped to one knee... She started to smile as she looked down at him.

Cause I've been waiting to give this gift tonight
I'm down on my knees, there's no better time
It's something to last for as long as you live
Tonight I'm gonna give you all my heart can give

As the chorus of the song played again, Bobby pointed towards the lawn. As Tara looked, a green MARRY ME? popped up in lights on the center of D's lawn. She gasped slightly and looked back at him as the song repeated the last chorus.

Waiting to give this gift tonight
I'm down on my knees, there's no better time
It's something to last for as long as you live
Tonight I'm gonna give you all my heart can give

Bobby had managed to get the ring box out of his pocket and was offering it to her. Tara grinned as she looked from him, to the ring and over to the lawn. Bobby raised a brow at her while he waited, uncaring that the knee of his pant leg was getting uncomfortably damp. He was more intrigued by the sparkle he could see growing in her eyes.

As the last notes of the song faded, Bobby looked up at her again. "So, what say you, Tara luv. Will you do me the honor of being the only woman I want to have bend to my every whim when I use my dimples and accent?" He grinned at her.

"Oh... Bobby!" Tara whispered as a tear slowly made it's way down her cheek. "I would absotively posalutely adore to be your wife." She pulled him up from his knee and threw her arms around his neck and kissed him.

Bobby laughed as he pushed away slightly and reached for her left hand. He kissed her ring finger before he slipped the ring on it. He rested his forehead against hers as he looked into her eyes. "I love you Tara." he murmured as he took her lips again.

Tara kissed him back with all the love she could muster up. They broke apart laughing when D called out to them from the front door. "I didn't hear an Aussie yell of 'Whooo Hoo!'..." He perfectly imitated Bobby's usual excited yell. "But she's kissing you so...?"

Bobby grinned at Tara before yelling to D. "She said Yes!"

D's laugh carried out on the slight breeze that was blowing. "Well, Bobby, I'd say that you just got a Christmas miracle that will last you a lifetime." He said. "Congratulations you crazy kids. Now, go somewhere and stop kissing in front of my wife. You're giving her ideas."

Tara's laugh bubbled out. "I think he's got a point." she said, as they heard D shut the door.

"What? Going home?" Bobby asked.

"No. You... getting a Christmas miracle." she said, stretching up for a kiss. "And not only that, but D lives on 34th street." she pointed out.

Bobby chuckled the whole time he was getting Tara settled in the car and as he headed them towards her place. He hadn't thought about the connection between his choice of location and the holiday classic, but it would do. He glanced over at his personal miracle and marveled that she'd agreed to be his forever. Tara looked back at him and smiled, linking their hands as he drove the rest of the way home.

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Tara let them back into her apartment. "It's really late." she commented.

Bobby shrugged. "Does it matter?" he asked.

Tara grinned at him. "Not really, no." She said. "I'm so incredibly happy right now that I don't think I'll need to sleep ever again." She looked down at the ring, pulling it closer so she could look at it. "Oh, Bobby... it's beautiful." She sighed. "But how...?" She scratched her head and looked at him, frowning slightly.

"What?" Bobby asked, puzzled by her reaction. She shook her head, absentmindedly stepping out of her shoes. She came and sat by him, welcoming the comfort of his arms holding her close. "Tara luv?" He asked, pressing a kiss to her temple. "Am I supposed to assume that your extreme fascination with your ring means that you like it?" Bobby tilted her gaze up to meet his.

"Oh, you..." She leaned up and in to kiss him. "I adore it." She looked back at it and then up to him again. "The thing I can't figure out is how you managed it." Tara laughed at his confusion. "I picked this ring out and declared it perfect for me when I was shopping with Sue and Lucy." She raised a brow at him. "You were here, crying over my memories." She grinned as she poked him in the ribs. "So how do you end up choosing the exact perfect ring for me?" she wondered aloud.

Bobby pondered her musings, resting his chin on the top of her head. "You know, I can't really begin to explain it either. I was looking at all the stores at the mall and this one just sparkled at me and screamed perfect for Tara."

Tara grinned. "Well, we're both right then. It is perfect for me." She held her hand out and admired the way that it sparkled. She twisted to look up at him. "And you, Bobby Manning, are perfect for me."

Bobby leaned down and kissed her. "I agree. I am perfect for you." he teased. He glanced up at the clock. "Happy Christmas Tara luv. I'm glad you like your first Christmas present." he said, kissing his way along her jaw to capture her lips.

"Mmm." Tara mumbled as he pulled away. "I love it, but I love you more." she grinned at him. "So, how many more am I going to get?" She asked, slyly.

"Nope. Can't let on anything about the rest. Santa can't come until you're in bed, asleep." he teased.

"So... you're saying that Santa will be over in the morning around 9 or so to have breakfast and exchange presents before we join the team over at Myles's house?" Tara quizzed him.

"Why yes." Bobby chuckled. "If that is what Ms. Santa wants, then I shall return at 9." He kissed her gently. "I love you very much, Tara Williams someday soon to be Manning."

"I love you too." She whispered. "You know... June sounds nice, don't you think?"

Bobby smiled. "We'll certainly have to talk about that, won't we?" He kissed her again before he shrugged into his coat and turned to leave.

"Wait." Tara caught his arm and tugged him back before she tangled her fingers in his hair, bringing his head down to hers for a fierce kiss. "I'll miss you til morning." She said, his forehead resting on hers as he tried to catch his breath. Bobby kissed her forehead one more time before whispering a good night in her ear and walking down the hall.

Ornella

Ok... this is it guys.... I really hope that you've enjoyed the story... I've certainly enjoyed writing it so... Thanks alot for reading!
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Monday... 12/25... 11 AM.... Tara's

Tara smiled at Bobby over her coffee cup. "Thanks for the new pajamas Koala Boy." She took a sip of coffee. "I hadn't even seen those Tinkerbell ones yet. Great choice." Her eyes twinkled at him. "I like my ring even more though."

Bobby grinned back at her. "Well, I thought you'd like them." He took a sip of his coffee. "I have to admit, the tickets to the Dancing with the Stars tour caught me off guard, but it will be a lot of fun for us."

Tara laughed. "oh, you think I'm going? I thought it would be a nice outing for you and Jack!" She teased.

"Ok, funny girl." Bobby scowled at her, causing her to bubble forth with more laughter.

"Oh hush, Koala Boy." She leaned over and kissed him. "If wearing your ring means I go watch dancing, I'm all for it." She regarded him thoughtfully. "That cute Drew Lachey will be there, you know, from 98 degrees? You did use a song he sang on to propose to me. He's practically family." She said with a smile.

Bobby finished his coffee and set his cup down. "So... ready to go out and face the rest of the team? Who... probably will find out about our engagement from Ms. Tanya?"

Tara grinned again and went to go grab their coats. "You know... no matter what anyone says today, I'm perfectly happy with my presents." She grabbed his hand as they headed down to the car, carrying her presents for the team. "I have a very, very cute pair of new pajamas." She giggled. "And a perfectly gorgeous diamond ring to go with my perfectly gorgeous fiancé."

Bobby leaned over her as he held her car door open. "I didn't need anything else this year after you said yes." He kissed her before going around and getting into the car.

As the day progressed and they were congratulated and the girls gushed over her ring, Tara had never felt more at peace. Sue and Jack were happy. D's family was happy and thriving. Myles was finally happy and had a quiet peace around him for the last week. Lucy, well... Lucy was Lucy and Tara knew that she'd be able to count on having her help in planning the wedding. 'The wedding...' Tara sighed as her eye fell on Bobby, laughing and joking with Jack. Tara's heart swelled with the love she felt for Bobby. She had no doubts that their marriage would be one of complete trust and honesty. Bobby felt her watching and flashed a grin at her. Tara grinned back before she turned once again to detail every moment of his sweet proposal to the girls.

Julie watched from the corner, not fully visible, just enough to be aware of what was happening. She felt proud of the work that had been accomplished in strengthening this bond that the team had. She knew they would be fine, under the watchful eye and gentle guidance of Sue. Julie smiled again, as she started to shimmer out. They were fine, she knew it wasn't good-bye, just a see you later because she knew she'd secured the re-curring assignment. She couldn't say that she'd be happy to see them later, because she'd only arrive when the pain and anguish did. But she could appreciate the support they would provide to each other. She still had a few reports to write so she shimmered on home to take care of the final wrap up.

Later on in the evening, as Tara sat in the circle of Bobby's arms, listening as Myles read the Christmas story from the Bible and watching as Sue signed the blessed words that he was reading, she marveled at the miracles of God's hand that had occurred within the team. And she knew that they would all face the new year together as friends... as family. That was the true miracle, Tara supposed, she'd managed to find and create the family that she had always dreamed of having, a family who loved and accepted her for who she was. Tara intertwined her fingers with Bobby's and felt his kiss brush the top of her head as he tightened his grasp on her fingers. "Love you." he whispered.

Tara looked up at him and smiled softly. "Love you too." she whispered back before they were pulled into a conversation with D as they celebrated Christmas miracles with their family of friends.

"Keep on loving each other as brothers. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:1-2"

The end


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The next story in the series is: You Save Me, located in my finished file!

Thanks for a great story!
thanks,
Terie

I loved it! Thanks so much! I especially like the way you closed with that verse! It was the perfect way to tie it all up!

Beautiful story! Thanks for sharing it with us!

Sorry I don't post much, But have realy enjoyed this and the other stories you have written. Excellent work.




I will read anything else you feel like posting. hehehe


Happy New Year

Great story! I loved it so much! I too liked the way you closed with that verse. It's a wonderful line!
Can't wait for the fourth (?) chapter of this amazing saga!


Ornella

Wonderful proposal! Just what Tara deserves!!!! Loved the whole story -- it was nice to share the season with such good friends!

kav

beautiful ending and story!

Beautiful story MioneBristow! Just perfect!

Just wanted to say again how much I loved the story and especially the proposal!!!

What we need now is the wedding hint hint

I'm doing my catch up reading and I had to go back to Christmas to catch up!

I loved your story. The proposal was great and so much fun. One of my favorite lines was That one jsut had me .

Great work! Thanks you.

MioneBristow this story was so wonderful. I know I can't cover all the things I want to comment on, but I have to say you brought out so much of the true meaning of Christmas and love in this story.

I'm a J/S fan but I love the way you wrote B/T. Great job!

Loved your choice of scriptures, fun with the cookie baking and sugar fight

Also love Brad Paisley. The whole proposal was incredible with the song, lights at D's and the ring by magic being the same one Tara picked.

Best of all, Myles coming to understand God's love for him and the joy it brought to him. So well done.

I just read your story from start to finish and thoroughly enjoyed myself!! Beautifully written!!!

Thanks for sharing!!!

Joy

Beautiful.



Hope ~