Total pages in book: 85
Estimated words: 82671 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 413(@200wpm)___ 331(@250wpm)___ 276(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 82671 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 413(@200wpm)___ 331(@250wpm)___ 276(@300wpm)
I hurried down the hall and chose a light sweater in case it became cool. After taking another couple of Tylenol, I put on some sun block and grabbed my phone, a sketchbook, and a camera, putting all the items into my knapsack. I stopped and grabbed a bottle of water and an apple, then headed outside, gazing around. Everywhere was busy. In the distance, I could see people on horseback. I heard the cows, the sounds of distant conversations. Faint music playing. Muted machinery. I saw the cookhouse not too far away, and I could smell something sweet on the air. Farther past the cookhouse were the structures Rachel had talked about that she thought could be revamped into sleeping quarters for the guests. I slung my knapsack over my shoulder and started exploring.
A couple of hours later, I sat by the river, still in wonder at the beauty around me. The sounds, the scents, the peace—all so different from Port Albany, where I spent most of my time. It was lovely at home, but the expanse of space here—the rolling hills and green grass, the blue of the sky—it was breathtaking. I had walked for what felt like miles, crisscrossing the ranch several times. I had stopped by the cookhouse and introduced myself to Callie, who handed me a cinnamon bun the size of my head that I munched on while I walked. I checked out the buildings. Saw the cows. The large stable that held the horses used on the ranch. The barn. The huge chicken coop. And I knew I hadn’t seen everything. It was an impressive operation.
I scanned the area but couldn’t see the ranch from here so decided this was a good place for a break. I’d find my way back in a short while. I pulled out my sketchbook and scrolled through the photos I’d taken of the buildings Rachel had directed me to. They would work perfectly for the ideas I had. I jotted down notes, ideas, and thoughts. Started lists, created must-have scenes for filming. I took a drink of my water and rolled up my jeans, sitting on a boulder by the river with my feet in the water. I realized where the ranch got its name. River rock filled the bed, the banks, and larger boulders and pieces were scattered all along the winding waterway. It seemed to circle a big area of the ranch before branching off into the distance. I would have to ask Luke about it. Rachel had mentioned an area where the water flowed into a natural swimming hole they used in the summer. People would love that. For now, I enjoyed the coolness on my feet.
I began to draw. The property had three structures that would be perfect for Rachel’s plan. The largest one could contain sleeping quarters and a common area for people who wanted to sit and relax. I could easily fit six bunk beds in the back area. I was thrilled to find the buildings already had plumbing since they had been living quarters at one time. I would have to discuss all the requirements with Luke regarding septic tanks, or maybe we used composting toilets. I scribbled a note. The second building was smaller—one large room and a bath. I could do another six bunks and a few chairs for sitting. The smallest building could be for those who preferred privacy or a small group that liked to be on their own. Four bunks, a bathroom, and a table and chairs. The structures were sound, even the roofs in good shape. Some floors, updated wiring and fixtures, the furniture and touches, as well as plumbing, were the main things needed. I couldn’t help but think of my dad and how much he would enjoy a project like this. I could see him, Aiden, Ronan, and Hunter working here—enjoying the sun, riding the horses, eating at the cookhouse, and building the sleeping quarters. Even at his age, my dad still loved everything to do with construction. I tucked that idea away to think about later. I worked for a bit, then slipped the book back into the knapsack.
I sipped the water I’d brought, warm now, but it helped with the thirst. I took out the apple and set it on the rock, taking off my hat and lifting my face to the sun. I leaned back on my hands, enjoying the peace and warmth. With a sigh, I stood and carefully waded into the river. It was shallow at the edge, barely coming up to my calves, but the rocks were slippery so I moved slowly. I walked around, enjoying the cool water, eating the apple, and planning in my head. I was already excited about this project, and now that I had seen the ranch and breathtaking vistas, I was eager to start.