The Flags of Summer

Beautiful summer time!  I am enjoying it so much. Having the children here is such a joy to me.  Allie is heading back to school this week, without Ryan.  I know that is going to be hard on her.  He’s always been there for her.  I’m happy to have him here close to us but I know how much they want to be together, so I’m sure we’ll see her often.

Let me warn you this is a nice mild post telling you some things about our summer – not much on ‘topic’.  That post is coming to be sure, but this post is about a silly idea Tom had this summer.

Ryan has begun his lawn/landscaping business.  Small scale to be sure.  He will only take a small amount of help from us.  He acquired a small business loan.  That boy can truly stretch a dollar.  He stays busy, busy, busy, but he seems happy and I’m enjoying watching him grow his own business from the ground up.

This summer has made me really stop and think of how much my life has changed over the past few years.  During the first few years we were married we lived close to Annie and Sue and some other close friends.  But as the men grew in their careers headhunters came after them and we were all pulled apart, physically if not emotionally. Since they were all in the same line of work we always had meeting and conventions to bring us back in contact and, of course, we often vacationed together.  But twenty year ago, when Tom and I moved back east there were long stretches when I didn’t see the girls that often.  As much as I loved Tom, it was a lonely time for me.

I didn’t do well during that time.  I know I was drinking too much, it was also when I ran into a little problem with prescription drugs, you can imagine how that went over with Tom.  I always had ‘functions’ to attend.  I was friendly with the wives of Tom’s co-workers and the ladies at the church, but no one really close.  We lived in that big old rambling house with few close neighbors.  Tom was really my world and when he wasn’t with me I was lonely. That was one of the reasons blogging was such a joy to me from the beginning!  I had friends to talk to all the time – and they like me for myself, not just because I was Tom’s wife.

It wasn’t long after I began blogging that we moved to the River and life changed completely.  Ryan came often back then, though he didn’t live here.  Next door to us were Kate and Andrew and their wonderful children.  Allie became one of us – as dear to me as Sue and Annie.  Her brother Drew is special too. That adorable 12 year old we met that first day here, that pudgy, little fellow with the shy smile is now sixteen and six foot, four.  Taller than Ryan!  He and Willow are the best of friends and he is her favorite playmate.

About three years ago Sue and Steve, to finally put an end to my nagging, move four houses from us and near that time Ryan moved into their guesthouse, where he still lives. All of these wonderful people have enriched our lives and completely changed mine.

One thing has not changed – I would still rather spend time with Tom than anyone else on the planet. If he would stop working and wanted the two of us to go live in a cave by ourselves – I’d go!  But I don’t see that happening.  And deep down I know it wouldn’t be good for Tom.  Tom needs his work.  He loves it, he loves the contact with his peers, and he loves the intellectual stimulation.  As much as he loves me, he wouldn’t be as happy not working.  He only goes in three days a week so I get him and his attention most of the time.  He needs work like I need my extended friends and family.

Our lives are full! There have been times this summer, however, when Tom feels our lives are a little too full.  Over the years I’ve had to compete with Tom’s career for his attention – but Tom has never had to compete with anything for my attention.  And he still doesn’t, but he occasionally feels that way.  During the day Sue and I are often together at one house or the other with Allie joining us when ever possible. We enjoy spending time at the club where we have made more friends. 

The beautiful weather this summer finds us grilling out more often than not, since our back yards adjoin, we often combine our dinner resources with Kate and Andrew for large meals.  Drew has a new girlfriend and with other neighbor’s stopping by on there evening walks it’s not unusual to have more than a dozen people scattered through the back yard enjoying the weather and the good company.

It hasn’t been unusual this summer for Tom to make his way through the crowd to my side and whisper, “Come watch the sunset with me.”  And we’ll sneak away to the boat and go out alone. Such a peace steals over me at those times.  Tom will anchor the boat in a quiet cove and we sip wine as I lay back against him and watch the sun sink.  Sometimes we talk sometimes we’re just together in the quiet.  It’s as close to heaven as I expect to be in this world.

But one night early this summer Tom wanted to invite everyone over.  He not only invited our ‘family’, he included the whole neighborhood.  After dinner, Tom stood and told everyone he wished to make a toast. 

He began, “I first want to toast to all our guests.  When we first moved here this entire neighborhood came to us and made us feel completely welcomed.  You have given us your time, your help, your support, often your food, and most importantly your friendship. I hope we have given back a small measure of all you have given. I toast you all.”

As I drank, I was looking at Tom curiously. Something was up, he wasn’t just welcoming our guests he was making a speech. But I was in the dark as much as anyone. He went on, “I’d like to make a second toast to the most special person I know.” Tom turned to me, “To my lovely bride.”

He continued, “I have had the privilege of spending the past forty years and more with this extraordinary woman.  I’d take another forty any day, but it seems lately that I need to make an appointment when I want to see her. It seems my girl has turned into the bell of the ball and I can never find her alone.”

Our guest began laughing, but I could tell where he was going and I was quite upset that he was going to insult our guest and chase my friends away.  Unfortunately, no way of stopping him came to mind.  I tried to give him a ‘look’ to convey my message, but he wasn’t taking the hint.

“Therefore, with the help of my son, and my neighbor Andrew here, we have arrived at a workable solution.” With that Tom reached into a tall box near him and pulled out one of those decorative flags.  I have a few holiday ones I put up occasionally on the deck. This one was bright red with a large sailboat in the center – it looked a bit gaudy to me.

“This is my signal flag – this flag flying on our deck means we are perfectly content alone and we need no company.  If you see it, assume that we are otherwise occupied and will not be receiving guest, or even phone calls.” The group was laughing freely by this time, but I was mortified. To me Tom seemed to be announcing that we were getting ready to have mad passionate sex the minute we could get these people out of our yard!  Later that evening Sue helped me realize that in that crowd, with the acceptation of her and Steve and Allie and Ryan, no one would imagine more than a spirited game of scramble or a power nap. Perhaps she was right, unless I gave it away with my blushing.  I suppose looking the part of a sweet, little old southern lady does have its advantages.

But Tom wasn’t finished.  “Cassie and I do love entertaining and we love company.  Anytime the flag is absent we hope you’ll drop by.  I also know that we are not the only ones around here with the same problem.  Therefore, I have a flag for each family here.”  Reaching back in the box Tom pulled out perhaps 20 more flags.  I couldn’t help laughing along with everyone else as all the men surged forward to get one.  Tom finished with, “You’ll notice ours is not flying tonight, so please plan on staying late and enjoying yourselves.”  Walking over to me he gave me a delightful kiss to the cheers of our guests.  As everyone began to mingle again I just shook my head at Tom.  Old devil, he has to control everything – even the neighbors.

Soon Sue and Allie joined me.  “That was embarrassing!” I confided in them.  “He’s going to chase all my friends away.  You two better not stop coming over.”

Allie piped up, “I love it!  You know I’d spend every day over here if I could.  Mom used to fuss all the time when you guys first moved in.  She’d say ‘Leave those poor people alone.  They moved here for peace and quite and they don’t want teenagers around all the time.’  I used to have to fight the urge to come over every time you stepped out into your yard.”

“Even now sometimes I want to come over, but if Tom home I’m always worried I’m interrupting something. Now I’ll know and I’ll pester you all the time the flag’s down.”

“You have never been, and could never be, a pest.” I insisted, although I did remember a time or two that her ‘YOU-HOO’ had come at a less than opportune time.

Sue piped up, “Oh, he doesn’t want it for the wild sex! He just wants to make sure no one walks in on him beating his wife and call the cops on him.”

I just shook my head at her; honestly her word choice often leaves something to be desired.  But then again, I realized her basic sentiment might just be true.  I took a stab at defending my desire ability “Just because that’s the only reason your husband wants to be alone with you doesn’t mean that’s all Tom wants.” I pointed out with a haughty smile.

I must say, giving Tom credit, the flag has worked well this summer. It has not inhibited folks from dropping by when it’s not up and that was my fear.  Tom loves to point out flags up all over the neighborhood as we take our walks.  For the summer he has been treated as the man of the hour.

As for my personal activities this summer, as usual, I’ve been an angel.  Most of my trips over Tom’s knee have been for our mutual enjoyment.  But of course he has been too bossy about a few things – he and Ryan both.  And this unnecessary meddling in my affairs did end up being a problem for both Allie and me.  I’ll tell you about it as soon as I can.

Cassie, the angel

I’m so sorry to have been away for so long. I was just reading back over the comments to my last post and had to laugh. I read them to Tom and he was highly amused also.

“When they commend you for doing what you were told to do, do they realize I hadn’t given you any choice? Even back then I was pretty sure even you weren’t going to head out stark naked.”

I got to thinking about how my readers must view me. You all think I stay in trouble all the time. I think you believe I never listen to my sweet husband and constantly do whatever I want to do. Now let’s just look at this based on facts. I have to date 381 posts. Not all of those post and been about me getting in trouble, but for the sake of argument let’s say that they all were. If each post represents one day I got in trouble, then let’s say all the rest of the time I was good as gold. That would mean that, for all you know, I’ve been an angel for 38.9 of the past 40 some years!

So, is anyone buying this so far? LOL! But I do want you all to know that there are long stretches in our lives where the only spankings I get are the loving, fun ones. But seriously, how many of you come here to read how well behaved and angelic I can be? I know the real reason you all come here is to marvel at how unreasonable Tom can be about the most ordinary events.

I do have more stories that I think you might enjoy. As time permits I'll get them typed up and I promise to share them with you.

Now a word about word verification - I despise it! I had had it off for a long time and then I began getting more and more spam so I put it back on just before they changed it to where no one can read it! Ronnie was kind enough to let me know that you only have to type one of the two words and not both. I can usually read one of them. For now I’m taking it off again. If there is one thing I really want it’s to hear from anyone who is kind enough to want to leave me a comment.

Afternoon talk

We certainly have gotten full use of our island home since September. We were here for a week or more after I found it was ours. Tom and Steve made arrangements to totally redo the caretaker’s house. Tia and Carl were bursting at the seams with their large family. We put them in the guest houses while the work was being done during October. This was also the beautiful spot Tom whisked me off to when I was planning Nancy’s demise and how to make it look like an accident.

Christmas and New Years were a swirl of wonderful events, but I was exhausted. Finally one day, not long after New Year’s, we girls found an afternoon to just sit and relax. The men had gone golfing and Allie, Annie, Sue and I gathered peacefully around the pool. I felt so content. These friends are those I love the most. I have no secrets from them and there is no pretense when we talk. There is nothing to hide. It does me good to be with them.

That afternoon we were sipping wine (those of us over 21) and basking in the beauty of our surroundings. Allie stretched catlike then turning to me said, “I hope you don’t mind Cassie but I’ve decided I’m never leaving. I'll try not to be in the way.”

“You won’t be in my way,” I laughed, “but don’t you have a college degree to finish?”

“Ugg,..” she said with feeling. “Don’t remind me. I don’t even what to think of getting back in that grind.” She took a deep sigh, “I did something so stupid this year. I think I should have ‘idiot’ tattooed on my forehead.”

I cast her a withering look. She gave me a quick smile and said, “Sorry, sorry! I know I’m not supposed to mentions tattoos to you!”

“So what did you do that was so stupid?” Sue asked her.

Allie shook her head, “I really blew it. I ask Ryan to help me get things done on time and not get so stress like I did last year and I even agreed to let him spank me when I don’t keep to the schedule.”

“You did WHAT?” Sue and I shouted in unison. Sue looked disgusted, “Go ahead and get that tattoo.” She told her, “You deserve it.”

“Oh honey,” I told her, “you never ask for help getting over a bad habit. They’re on it like a dog with a bone. They never let up.”

"Wait, you told me Tom helped you overcome tons of bad habits. You said you used to cuss like a sailor before Tom helped you.”

“But Allie, I never asked him to! Breaking some of my habits that he didn’t like was his idea, not mine. I only ask him to help me break my gambling habit, and that request came back to bite me in the ass! Forgive my language.” I laughed.

“Well let’s hear it.” Sue insisted. “What torture has your Tom-clone been putting you through?”

Allie sighed. “You see last year I was driving myself crazy. Ryan too part of the time, but he really kept his cool. I usually got everything done but I was always in a panic. Every time something was due I was up until three or four the night before trying to pull everything together. I’d run out of paper or the printer cartridge would be empty or something. Sometimes I couldn’t get it done and lost credit for late stuff. I’d be tired and surly the next day and before you could turn around the next things was due. Ryan had as many paper and junk to do as I did, but he never seemed flustered or rushed and so dummy me asked for help.”

“Well, what’s his secret?” Annie asked. “Has it worked?”

“I guess it did help.” Allie grudgingly admitted. “It’s pretty simple really. He just took all my due dates on each syllabus and moved them up by four days. If it’s due in class on the 4th I have to have it 100% complete and in Ryan’s hands by 9:00 pm on the 1st.”

“We were discussing this in bed. I think that was one of my problems." Allie admitted. "I was feeling pretty much agreeable to anything at the time. I was just mentioning that I wished I was as organized as him. He might have been the one who offered to help. I know for sure he was the one who suggested spanking as a way to back it up.”

“Entrapment! I knew it.” Snarled Sue.

Allie laughed. “I think you’re probably right, but whatever it was, I agreed.”

“Oh Allie, the same thing happened to me. We had a conversation before we were married where Tom swears he explained exactly how our marriage was going to be an old fashion one and if he ever thought I needed a spanking he was going to give me one. I wasn’t paying any attention! I was trying to get his clothes off. I’ve always said that my answers of ‘yay, yay sure’ should not have been binding!”

“So tell us,” Annie probed, “Did you get spanked or did you get things turned in on time.”

“I guess about what you would suspect.” Allie told us with a grin. “I did a lot better. If I didn’t have it by nine the day Ryan said, he just spanked me with his hand, and actually I’m surprised at how much that can hurt. But if I didn’t have it by the next night at nine he was getting more serious. He’d use that awful rubber spatula/scraper or whatever it is from the kitchen. That stupid thing is red and I think he tries to make my butt match.”

“And if you don’t have it the third day? I probed.

Allie’s look turned sour. “That stupid brush!”

I had been afraid of that. “Oh honey, I’m sorry. They always seem to know the worst one.”

“Well we didn’t get there but once. But I was so mad. I mean I’d been spanked the two day before for not having it so I was getting mad at Ryan. And then I was mad at myself too because the only reason it wasn’t done is just that it was a stupid project and I didn’t want to work on it at all.

“Ryan called me at eight that last night. First thing he asked was, ‘Is it done?’ I was so mad I told him, no, the damn things not done. It’s stupid, I’m not doing it and you can’t make me. Then I hung up on him.”

Annie and I stared at her in horror as Sue snorted, quoting Dr. Phil “And how did that work for you?” she chuckled.

“Not so well.” she admitted ruefully. We sat back to hear the rests of the story she had to tell.

He didn’t call back but at nine, the deadline, he was at my door. I knew I was safe on the hall, too many people. He looked over what I had. I showed him it would only take a couple of hours to finish.

He said that sounded good but he needed me to come back to his condo for about a half hour. I knew what that meant and I told him I didn’t have time. My roommate was looking at him funny because she knows he’s always the one pushing me to get things finished and now he wanted me to go somewhere with him before it was done.

I told him, “Honey it’s just going to have to wait until tomorrow. I’ve got to get this finished.”

He looked me right in the eye and said “It has to be taken care of tonight. I guess I can take care of it here if you’d rather.”

Well then I couldn’t get out of there fast enough! But by the time we got to his place I was pretty mad. “If you had just let me alone I’d be done with the damn thing by now!”

He walked into the bedroom and got the brush. When he came out he told me, “I’m not going to take anymore attitude or any more cussing tonight. You had plenty of time to get that thing done and you just wouldn’t. You knew it was coming to thing and you still didn’t do it. Now do you need some time in the corner to calm down?”

I was mad. It’s bad enough to be spanked but it really embarrasses me for him to mention the corner. “I don’t need the corner,” I snapped.

All I got was a terse “Fine.” And I was over his knee. He didn’t even do a warm up! He was in full lecture mode. Time management, thinking ahead, the evils of procrastination, and ended with, “You’re right I can’t make you do it but I can hold you to the bargain you made and that’s exactly what I’m doing.”

It was a pretty rough evening. I hadn’t been spanked that hard in a long time. I don’t know if it was for not getting finished or for how I’d talked to him, but it sure was thorough. When he was done he just gave me a quick hug and drove me back to the dorm. He didn’t mention the project as he dropped me off; he just said “I love you.”

“I finished it that night.” Allie told us, concluding her story. “I never let anything run that late again.” Allie sighed deeply but then added with a little sparkle in her eye, “But I did check my grades on line this morning, B in Chemistry and an A in everything else!”

We all gave her a shout and our sincere congratulations. I couldn’t help asking “Are you going to tell Ryan how well you did? He may try to take all the credit you know.”

Allie laughed, “I might as well. I already agreed to do it again this next semester.”

Annie and I laughed as Sue shook her head in disgust. “If Steve had a hairbrush I wouldn’t agree to a damn thing!” she insisted.

It had been a lovely afternoon. I know Tom and I brought great changes into Allie’s life, although it was never our intentions, when we moved in beside her family 4 years ago. I worry about it sometimes, but Allie seems happy with how things are going so I usually take a deep breath and keep my fingers crossed.

I’ve been in more of a writing mood lately. I’ll try not to be so long between post.

Birthday surprise

This story started back here.

The next morning I woke happy and content, but I had barely had time to stretch before Tom had pulled me across his lap and proceeded to warm my bottom in a rapid manner. “What are you doing?” I growled at him.

“As long as we’ve been together and you don’t know what I’m doing? I must need practice.” He insisted and he increased the pace. “I was just thinking that Sue will be here in about 4 hours. I thought I’d get a head start.”

I squirmed off his lap and Tom let me go laughing. I grabbed my robe with as much dignity as I could muster at the moment, headed to the bath room and slammed the door soundly. I could still hear Tom laughing and I had to smile. Old devil, he does knows us well.

I was so happy to see everyone and show them around. They all seemed very impressed with our accommodations. We spent time on the beach and in the ocean. Ryan, Allie and Drew rented the Jet Ski. We ladies biked around the little town and did some shopping. I was a good as gold and it wasn’t hard since surrounded by all the people I love the most.

At dinner that evening Tia out did herself, everything was delicious. The wine had been flowing freely since afternoon. We were telling old stories and laughing so hard most of us were in tears. I’ve been through a lot with these people. Tom was as relax and happy as I’ve ever seen him.

Dinner was over and we were all out by the pool when I saw Tom and Steve in a deep conversation. I didn’t pay much attention, but I noticed as they slipped into the house together. Shortly they returned and Tom came to stand by me clearly looking like he had something to say. Gradually everyone turned to look at him as he began.

“As you know we are all here to celebrate Cassie’s birthday.”

I rolled my eyes, “Just don’t anyone say which one!” I insisted.

Tom went on. “I think you will all agree that Cassie can be somewhat difficult to buy for.” Everyone laughed and nodded. “But I think I’ve found a little something she might like.” Tom had pulled a small box from his pocket.

“Tom told me what he was getting.” Steve spoke up. “I was pretty sure Cassie would like it and all I could think of was how much Sue was going to whine and carry on because she hadn’t gotten the same thing. You all know how she can be.” We all looked at Sue and laughed as she decided whether to be indignant or amused. As we laughed Steve pulled a box from his pocket that matched the one Tom was holding.

I admit the boys had my attention. Tom is a wonderful gift giver, but Sue and me receiving the same gift? That seemed a little strange. I mean we’re a bit old for matching bracelets. Steve walked over to Sue as Tom stood in front of me and offered the little box. I gave him a quizzical look before taking it and slipping off the top. Inside nestled in cotton was a key, to what I had no idea. Glancing at Sue I saw her holding a key also. The first thing that crossed my mind was that the boys had gotten us each a jet ski but that didn’t seem right somehow and it wasn’t the right kind of key. I looked at Tom questioningly.

“Honey,” Tom began, “it‘s yours together. You and Sue are now the proud owners of this house and all that goes with it.” I felt like I’d been hit with an electric current. I stared at Tom unable to speak. This house, this magnificent home that I had been marveling over for days was mine? Mine and Sue’s? As the news sank in I burst into tears and grabbed Tom. Tom has surprised me many, many times in our marriage but none more than this. The house with two master wings, what could be more perfect? Once again Tom had managed to outdo himself when it came to birthday gifts. Looking over at Sue I saw she was blubbering like a baby, not something I’ve seen many times in my life.

Now you can see what has been occupying my time over the last few months. We’ve come to the Island several times since then. This was where Tom whisked me off to when I was so outraged over Nancy. Sue and Steve have been here several times on their own and some with us. I suppose not every friendship could survive owning a home together but I don’t anticipate any problems. We’ve vacationed together and shared vacation homes for the past 40 years.

We were home for Christmas this year but back down here for New Years. That was a wonderful time. Annie and Andy came also as well as Allie and Ryan. The children were off until the middle of January so we had them to ourselves for a while. For the most part Sue and I have managed to behave ourselves – that’s my story and I’m sticking to it. Allie, however, did share some of her less brilliant moments over the past few months. I’ll be sharing those with you soon.

Birthday retreat

I’ve been so neglectful about writing here and I apologize. I realized I never wrote telling you about what I got for my birthday way last Sept and that has a lot to do with why I’ve been too busy to write. Tom nearly always takes me on a lovely trip for my birthday and this past year was no exception. He chose a delightful little island in the Caribbean. There were two 5 star resorts there – not high rises but smaller and more intimate places that were just lovely. However for this trip Tom had rented a private compound that included the most beautiful vacation home I’ve ever seen.

The main house was huge! Actually it was two houses put together to from a large U shape. The common area was a living room and dining room plus a gourmet kitchen. This area opened up to a fantastic patio area and the pool. All of this overlooked the Atlantic Ocean in all its splendor. The color of the sea around these islands is indescribably beautiful. The beach at this home was wide and inviting and the ocean calm and playful. But back to the house, there were matching master wings on either side of the house each consisting of a small kitchen and sitting room, two guest rooms in addition to the incredible master bedroom. Each master had its own balcony and private hot tub. Can you tell I was amazingly pleased with our accommodations? We were alone for the first week but Tom had invited many of our friends to join us for my birthday the next week so it wasn’t long before the place was overrun with friends and family, as well as the two guest houses on the grounds as well.

There was also a delightful family that lived on the property to care for the house and grounds, Tia and Carl and their delightful children. Tia is a cook like no other! In addition to cooking Tia and her girls took care of every house keeping detail, while Carl and his sons maintained the pool and grounds. All this they took care of while we barely saw them! They were wonderful about giving us complete privacy. Tom would let them know on the days he was cooking that we would require nothing, and for them to enjoy their day as they liked.

My actual birthday we spent alone. Everyone was scheduled to arrive the next day for the big party, but this day was just for me. Tom woke me up with breakfast in bed. It was delicious and we ate and sipped our coffee while watching the waves roll in. My first birthday gift came next and it was a lovely diamond bracelet. I love jewelry and Tom loves seeing it on me. Glancing at the clock Tom told me. “It’s time for your next gift, put on your bathing suit and let’s go.”

Oh my, what a day! Tom had rented jet skis for the two of us. I want one for the river but so far Tom has not warmed to the idea. We did have fun with them on the ocean. The whole day was one thing after another of the things I loved. We biked later in the day exploring the island. There are so many little shops, and restaurants and I wanted to visit each one! We did visit many and we ate at one of the resorts I mentioned for lunch.

As a most special surprise that evening, Tom had arranged for us to ride horseback on the beach at sunset. Carl brought the horses around and I couldn’t have been more pleased and surprised. I used to ride quite well, but that was long ago. Thankfully Carl had picked the sweetest and most gentle horses for us and our ride was near magical. I don’t know when I had had a finer birthday.

My day wasn’t over however, back at the house Tom slipped his arm around me and said quietly in my ear “I think it’s about time for a birthday spanking.”

You must understand that I have reached a point in life where this can be a serious matter! It’s one of the few times I wish to be a young woman again. As with any and all spankings I felt it was my duty to protest. “Not now Tom, I think that horseback ride will do me for tonight. Let’s just save your arm.”

Tom chuckled, “I was just using the horseback ride to help me with the warm up.”

He began to undress me and I gasped, “Honey, wait! Not out here! Let’s go in.”

“I’m happy right here.” He told me. “I chose this house for its privacy and isolation. I think outdoor spankings are natural and healthy and you know how I like to watch your health.”

I had to laugh too. I stopped complaining and worrying and just went with it. Tom didn’t just relieve me of my shorts, he undressed me completely. The night was warm with just a hint of breeze from the ocean. It was such a strange and exhilarating feeling to be nude in the great outdoors. As Tom ran his hands over me spanking wasn’t the first thing on my agenda but as usual it was on his. Pulling me over his lap he began on a brisk warm up. Now of course this was a birthday spanking he was happy and playful but NO spanking from Tom is to be taken lightly! The warm up had done its job and then he began on counting the years.

The first 20 were hard and swift, as if he wanted those two decades behind and forgotten. As he began on the rest he made sure each and every swat, each and every year, was memorable. Oh, to be forty again! I was stinging and throbbing for sure as he delivered the one to grow on. He soon let me up and I was rubbing for sure trying to soothe the sting. I gave Tom a reproachful look and told him “The least you could do is help.”

Tom smiled and leaned back on the lounge chair. “Do you know what a beautiful sight it is to watch you rub your beautiful bottom, especially here in the moon light?”

I laughed at him but quickly decided I wasn’t going to be the only one providing entertainment. I began undressing my sweet man and soon we realized the full benefit of our private retreat. Everyone should have the joy of making love under the moon with the waves crashing close by.

Our private retreat was perfect and the following day our friends would arrive, Sue and Steve, Annie and Andy, several other couples that are old friends as well as Ryan and Allie and Allie’s whole family. I was a happy woman. Nothing could be any better than time alone with Tom, but I do love my extended family and friends and I looked forward to their arrival. I still hadn’t received my special gift. Tom had wanted to present that in front of the crowd. But it was fantastic and I’ll tell you of it soon.

I DO love my lurkers

I can’t think of a single day I enjoy more in blogland than Love our Lurkers Day. I know my blog is somewhat on the ‘different’ side but there is probably no one out here who enjoys hearing from my readers more. I love writing here and I’m always anxious to know if others like my stories. Each time one of my readers is gracious enough to leave me a comment I become excited about writing more.

I know that I have many lurkers when I post. I would so love to hear from you. You’re welcome, no matter what. But anytime, anywhere you leave comments you are telling the blogger that you appreciate the time and effort that they put into their blog. I see my comments as a little bit like a hug – so welcomed, so cherished.

For those special few who are here so often and leave comments I want you to know that I feel you are all family. Your loyalty and willingness to take the time to comment means the world to me and I thank you so much.

Cassie

Wardrobe malfunction, the conclusion

Sorry this part of the story is a little long. There wasn't a good breaking point. Then again, come to think of it, that spanking seemed pretty long too!

This story began back here.


I could feel waves of anger coming from Tom as we headed to the room. I was torn, I felt I needed to keep my mouth shut but, I also wanted to plead my case. Unfortunately, during the silent ride up the elevator, I realized I didn’t really have one. Well, not one Tom would understand.

We stepped in to the room and Tom took Sue’s pool jacket and tossed it onto the chair. Within seconds Tom sat and pulled me across his lap. It was abrupt even by Tom’s standards. Tom sailed into that spanking with a hand hard enough to pound nails. He didn’t bother removing my bathing suit, not that it would have made one bit of difference. He was burning me up! It seemed he would spank forever without a break. I was struggling to get away but I was in an iron grip. When he finally stopped I felt like I was nearly at my limit.

“If I have your attention now, I’ll repeat myself one more time. Go get that bathing suit off the floor and in the trash. Then I’m going to wear you out.”

“You’re going to WHAT? Tom you just wore me out! I won’t be able to sit for a week. You can’t spank me again.” I thought he had lost his mind.

“Are you going to do what I tell you or should I continue to try and get your attention?”

He had my complete attention. I headed to the bedroom, grabbed up the suit (wishing with all my heart that I had done that earlier) and threw it into the trash in the bathroom. When I came back into the bedroom Tom was standing at the door. His look of pure anger had changed to one of determination. The look did not bode well for me. Standing there in that tiny white bathing suit, my bottom throbbing I gave Tom what I hoped was a ‘please take pity’ look.

“Have a seat Cassie.” He told me. I didn’t want to. My seat wanted no contact with anything but I sat gently on the edge of the bed. “I want to be sure I know what went on today. I want us both to be clear on what happened.” Tom continued. “Let me tell you what I’ve seen today and you tell me if I’m wrong. This morning I feel I made it very clear to you that I didn’t approve of the bathing suit choice you’d made and that I did not want you wearing such a small suit in public. I know you disagreed. But I think I made myself clear. Did I?”

I gave Tom the smallest nod.

“Where did this suit come from?”

Oh I didn’t want to tell him. You have no idea how much I didn’t want to tell him. He waited, not saying anymore.

“Sue and I went out and bought it this morning.”

“You’re telling me that after I told you the other suit was too small you deliberately went out and got one even smaller? Tell me why, Cassie.”

I took a deep breath trying my best to remember. “I… I’m a grown woman. I can pick out my own clothes. You’re too bossy. There’s nothing wrong with either of these suits…” My voice trailed off as Tom walked over and picked up the ivory brush.

“No Tom wait…” I began but he might as well have been as deaf as a post. I was already hurting when he pulled me across his lap and began full force with that hateful thing! Wild horses couldn’t have kept me from reaching back but Tom just grabbed my hand without comment and continued spanking. I was howling – unfortunately back then hotels were well built and fairly sound proof. There would be no rescue. It truly seemed like forever until he stopped.

When he paused I was frantic for some relief. I needed to rub and I was trying to jerk my hand from Tom’s hold. I got another hard pop to the top of my thighs. “Be still.” he commanded. Tom began rubbing for me then. I was sobbing and he gave me a minute to get hold of myself. Soon he began talking as he rubbed.

“I’m your husband and you will listen to me and do as I say. You are not going to run wild as you used to. I give you plenty of free rein but when I tell you ‘no’ – you better mind me. I told you this before we were married. Ours may not be like every other marriage, I may be old fashion, but you’ll just have to accept that. I am the head of this family and you will listen to me.”

Yes, I admit Tom told me all this before we were married. But I wasn’t paying attention, so it just shouldn’t count. Tom went on, “This morning you didn’t get your way and you let your temper tantrum take over. And that’s exactly what got you in this position” Tom then gave the following ‘commandments’ each punctuated with a dozen or so hard swats from the devil brush.

“I will not accept defiance from you.”

“You will listen to me.”

“You will do as I tell you.”

I had felt overwhelming relief when he had stopped to rub a little for me. I soon realized that all he had done was allow enough time to let the numbness that had started to completely dissipate and once again every swat was excruciating.

“And now,” Tom continued. Good grief, how much more was on his list? He let go with a torrent of spanks on my upper thighs that nearly had me coming straight up off his lap!

“What the hell was that for?” I couldn’t help shouting. Two more hard pops followed as Tom said, “You don’t want to go there girl. That was for hanging up on me. Do it again and you’ll get worse. Are you clear on that?”

The fire on my rear was way too intense to be clear on anything at the moment but I assured Tom I understood anyway. Tom resumed rubbing, but I steeled myself as he said one last thing. “This new suit you had to run out and buy – what did it cost?”

Good Lord!

Tom and I are blessed; finances have never been something we have had to worry about. I came into the marriage with a great deal of my own money and Tom was well off. Tom never says one word about what I spend on anything from clothing to jewelry with two acceptations. I’ve been in trouble over more than one bar tab and when I buy or do something directly against what Tom has told me.

The suit had been expensive. This was back when you could buy a nice bathing suit at most any store for a mere $25. This suit had been more than twice that. I just couldn’t tell him.

“I don’t remember.” I gasped.

I jumped as Tom laid the brush gently against my sore, swollen bottom and said quietly. “I’ve always found your memory to be excellent when necessary. Would you like me to help you remember?”

“NO! NO! Tom don’t! It was $60.”

“Sixty dollars? For a few triangles and some string? Fine, that will be an appropriate finish. The last 60 he gave with his hand and not nearly as hard as he had at the beginning. But when you feel raw and burnt all touching is agony – even a fairly mild spanking.

Tom finally finished and let go of my hand. He reached for the lotion and I swear it felt like he was pouring on liquid fire. “No, stop! Don’t!” I cried But Tom merely said “hush’ and continued with the after care.

When Tom stood me up I was too tender to even reach back and rub for myself – I was fairly dancing on my toes it hurt so much. Tom’s arms went around me and pulled me into a tight hug.

“We’re going back to the party in a bit, Girl.”

“Tom no, I don’t want to go anywhere.” I was wiped out.

Tom continued, “I should make you go wear what you have on – let everyone see what happens to wives who don’t listen to their husbands.”

He couldn’t possibly mean it! I whipped around to look in the mirror. My whole backside was scarlet with a few places that would undoubtedly bruise. “You wouldn’t da…” I managed to choke off my words before completing ‘You wouldn’t dare!’ Even that early in our marriage I sensed that there was a chance he would see it as a challenge rather than a cry of disbelief. I had stopped myself in time. I leaned against him and said, “Please Tom don’t do that to me. I’m so sorry.” I believe that was what Tom had been looking for all along – for me to stop and think before I acted or spoke. He hugged me tight, but he wasn’t quite finished with me yet.

Tom released me from my hug and took my face in his hands and delivered by far the most painful consequence I’d faced that day. Looking me right in the eye he told me “Cassie girl, you are the most important thing in my life. I am more proud of the wife I chose that anything else I’ve ever done. Bringing you around my friends and colleagues and showing off my lovely wife is a joy to me. You hurt me today. Your stubbornness and your anger turned you into another person. You hurt me and disappointed me.

Well that tore it! I bawled. I loved Tom more that you can imagine, and I did then. I could be bratty, I could fight against what he told me, but to know I had really hurt him and disappointed him tore me up. I cried for a long time while Tom just held me. Finally he told me to go wash my face and put on some make up. I didn’t want to go back to the party, but I made no protest. I took off the new suit and threw it in the trash too. I came into the bedroom to see that Tom had laid out an outfit of Bermuda shorts and my new blouse. I didn’t put a bathing suit on for the rest of the trip – I just didn’t feel like it.

I was grateful to realize, as we came out, that it was heavy dusk. The poor lighting around the pool, as the food was served, well hid my somewhat swollen eyes - from most people that is. Annie and Sue weren’t fooled. I was standing close by Tom as he spoke with others when Sue hissed in my ear, “You’ve been crying. What did that SOB do to you?” Had it not been for my first marriage, Sue wouldn’t have worried so. That experience had left her deeply suspicious.

“He told me he was disappointed in me and that I’d hurt his feelings.” I was tearing up even as I said it. Annie seemed satisfied but Sue started to say something else. But I looked her dead in the eye and said “I really am fine. I don’t want to talk about it.” She wasn’t happy but she subsided.

After we went through the line to get our food, Sue told us that they already had a table and to come on over. I looked to where they were sitting – metal folding chairs. I couldn’t do it. Tom was watching me. Tom told Sue, “If Cassie doesn’t mind I’d like to eat over here by the wall. The moon’s beautiful.” I was grateful, we sat our plates on the wall and stood while we ate and watched the moon. I realize some would think Tom a brute for doing what he did. But I really understood. Tom had told me what to expect before we married and I did agree. And it didn't change how much I loved him. It never will.

Oh my, that was so very long ago. For me it’s good to go back and remember these old stories. It helps me realize that, although Tom still doesn’t seem to let me get away with a thing, he has mellowed. I rarely go a day without at least a swat to my butt, but the horrid, ivory brush often remains untouched for months and months. It still hovers in the back of my mind. Perhaps it’s a deterrent but I see no reason to admit to any such thing.

Wardrobe malfunction, part 2

You can find the beginning of this story here.

The phone rang and I snatched it up still angry. It was Sue. “Where did you run off to in such a hurry?” she wanted to know.

“Never mind.” I told her shortly. “Get dressed, were going shopping.”

“Shopping? What for?”

“A new bathing suit.” I told her “And I know just what I want.”

~o0o~

Sue didn’t ask any more questions until we were in the cab and headed to a department store. She could tell I was mad about something. Finally she looked and me and said “Okay, spill it. What’s got you so steamed?”

“Tom didn’t like my new bathing suit. He said it was inappropriate for a married woman to wear in public.”

“Oh good grief!” Sue moaned, “What’s his problem? He’s more old fashion than my granny. That suit looks great on you. Just wear it and tell him to kiss your ass.”

“I can’t – it’s cut up in little pieces.” I told her.

“What! That son-of-a-bitch! He didn’t? Cassie, you need to kick his ass to the curb.” Oh yes, Sue was steamed. I liked her being mad on my behalf, but I told her I was the one who cut it up. She laughed then. “In that case, good for you! But tell me why in the world, after all that, are you going out to find a bathing suit he’d approve of?

I turned to give Sue a small smile. “Who says he’s going to approve of it?”

Sue howled with laughter. “Ahhh … Cassie. I thought for a minute you’d gone soft on me. There’s nothing like spitting in the eye of the Tiger!”

It didn’t take long to find what I was looking for since I only had two criteria, tiny and inappropriate. I found one I thought fit the bill perfectly and called Sue back to have a look. Her look was one of shock. “You’re not really going out in public in that thing are you?” she asked, a little hesitantly. It did cover everything it was supposed to, but barely, I admit. I was slim back then, but it was an era when women were expected to have curves to look sexy, the skeleton appeal hadn’t taken hold, and I had curves. This little suit showed each and every one.

“I’m going to get it!” I told Sue. “He can’t tell me how to dress!”

“You’re going to get it all right. Come on Cassie, that on might be pushing it a little. Look for something that covers a little more.” Sue, being cautious? That didn’t usually happen but I had my mind made up and no one was changing it.

I got my suit and headed to the shoe department. “What are we getting here?” Sue wanted to know.

“High heel sandals, that’s just want I need to make this suit standout.” I told her.

“Honey in that suit everything stands out already.”

“Whose side are you on?” I asked, “These shoes will complete the look I’m going for.”

“And what look is that?” Sue asked “Whore’s R’ Us?”

I gave her a withering look, not that she cared. “Look, no kidding," Sue wanted to know, "why do want to go out of your way to make him so mad?”

I ignored her question. I wasn’t sure myself anymore but I couldn’t give it up. “He has to learn he’s not going to control me. I’ll do what I want, say want I want and wear what I want. I’m not his child or his possession!”

“Suit yourself.” Sue told me, “But I think you’re just asking for trouble.” As you know, Sue didn’t know the half of it.

~**~

I took special pains with my makeup and hair for the late afternoon pool party. The bathing suit I had destroyed lay on the floor where I had thrown it at Tom. His parting words were for me to clean it up. But I chose to let it lay that as further proof that he could not tell me what to do. Seeing my beautiful new suit in pieces on the floor helped me hang on to my anger. And I needed my anger to carry through on my defiance. Once the anger left common sense would often take over and I wasn’t ready to go there yet. But later how I wished I had handled it differently.

To say I made a splash at the pool party would have been an understatement. When I pulled off my beach cover I believe every woman there gasped and the men simply stared. I loved it. I was an attention hound before I had met Tom and old habits die hard. I was having a ball! Normally I would have the waiters bring me my drinks but I was enjoying walking to the outdoor bar and getting them myself. Andy was there with Annie, Steve and Tom had had to stay for the later meeting. Andy came up to me.

“Cassie, please go change before Tom gets here. I know what you’re doing. Just grow up and put something decent on.” Andy always tried to take care of me but I rarely listened. And I was in too far to listen now. So I lashed out at him.

“I am a grown up! I’ll do as I please. Stay out of my business!” I snapped.

Andy tried one more time. “You know Tom’s going to blow a fuse. Cassie he’s likely to…”Andy stopped and just started at me. “Fine, do it your way.” He said shortly. I’ve wondered since then if he knew exactly what Tom would do. This was well before the cruise when I thought most of my friends learned the truth. But maybe Tom had shared his beliefs with the men much earlier.

I was drinking freely. I had a feeling I wouldn't get much more once Tom showed up. I was standing at the bar when the phone rang. When the bartender called out my name I froze. Taking a deep breath I took the phone. It was Tom who had gone back to the room to change.

“Cassie you have two minutes to get up here and get this bathing suit off the floor. I wasn’t kidding this morning and I’m not kidding now. You better move.” Tom demanding tone set my blood to boiling again.

“If you want it picked up, do it yourself!” I snapped in fury.

“Cassie, so help me I’m going…” I had absolutely no interests in hearing what he was going to do so I hung up on him. I grabbed my drink and downed it in one gulp. Turning to scan the crowd I saw Sue looking at me and shaking her head. She took one finger and slid it across her throat. Maybe that was when reality crashed down on me. I wasn’t worried about a slit throat – that might have been quick and painless. I suddenly realized that what was coming, and I knew it would be neither quick nor painless.

Sue saw my look change from defiance to panic and hurried over. “Let’s go to my room. You can change and give everyone a chance to calm down, okay.”

“Yes. Hurry!” We rushed to the door but it was too late. Tom was headed toward us his face already angry before he saw me. When he saw me and what I was wearing, his face took on an even darker look and I felt my knees go weak. Tom’s was staring directly into my eyes, leaving them briefly to scan the crowd where every man (according to Tom) was still ogling me.

Dear brave Sue said, “We’ll be right back guys. We have to run up to my room for a minute.” She tried to pull me along but Tom had reached us by then and had hold of my hand. As Sue had come to me she had grabbed up her little pool jacket and wordlessly Tom took it from her and put it around me. Tom then headed back toward our room with me in tow. I said a quick pray. But I knew my fate was sealed.

More soon.

Ryan has his say

Happy Birthday to me! Actually my birthday was last week but there has been much too much excitement to take the time to write about it. I’m still absorbing it myself. But never fear I will be sharing the details with you soon. I was so pleases to have a birthday greeting from my dear brother Paul – he remembered, and I was just delighted.

Today I am taking a day to rest and catch my breath. I thought it was high time to finish up the story on Allie taking the boat out by herself. Katy also reminded me I never told you what happened to the other girls after out last trip and our ill fated decision to venture into the world of henna tattoos. I haven’t forgotten and I will give you an update soon. Meanwhile you can find the beginning of Allie’s story here.

The next morning, before heading off to work, Tom had woken me with a hard pop to my bottom, a delightful kiss and a stern warning to behave myself. I had no objection to any of the three. I knew I had more than dodged a bullet the day before, and I had no plans to give Tom any reason to be upset with me in the near future.

I was headed to the deck with my coffee the next morning as Allie headed out of her house. How that girl can drink cold Dr. Pepper in the mornings rather than coffee is beyond me, but to each her own. She eased into a chair and I had to grin.

“Little sore dear?” I asked sweetly.

She glared at me for a minute before laughing, “Sore and a boil!” she admitted. “I really enjoy it when Ryan spanks me for fun, but this ‘I’m dead serious and I’m going to spank you until you see it my way’ crap has to stop!”

I nodded in sympathy and full understanding. “I want to hear everything he had to say but first tell me what in the world you were talking about when you left here yesterday. What is it that Sue and I don’t have and you do and you’re not happy about it?”

Allie gave me a blank stare. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.” She told me. “I didn’t say anything about you guys not having something.”

“Allie! I heard half the conversation right out in my drive way and I’ve been dying to know ever since, don’t tell me you don’t remember.”

“Sorry Cassie, not a clue.”

Grrrrr… I had been wondering all night. “All right, never mind. Just tell me what happened yesterday.”

I’ll let Allie share in her own words but you know I’ll have to slip in my comments along the way.

You know I was really ticked with Ryan yesterday morning, she began. I mean, what was wrong with taking a little time off for fun? But Ryan was a lot madder than I was I guess. He was mad about some of the things I said when I stomped off, he was mad I took the boat out alone and he was really mad about me running out of gas. You know the men – they have to see the dangerous side of everything.

(I could certainly vouch for that!)

I was going to take your advice and try not to make him any madder but one of the first things he said was, “When we get to my house you’re better get your butt in the corner while I take a shower and try to cool off.” I hate standing in the corner! It’s stupid and I told him so. I told him you guys didn’t have to and I shouldn’t have to either! But he said he didn’t care, I did have to.

Suddenly Allie stopped and laughed “That was it Cassie – I said you guys didn’t have to stand in the corner and Ryan said ‘Well you do!’”

I laughed with her, “Mystery solved! Go on.”

I fumed all the way back to his place. I was not standing in any stupid corner and when we got there I told him so.

“You have no right to tell me to do that.” I told him as we came in the door. “It’s stupid and childish! And I won’t do it.”

He just stared at me for a minute before answering me. Finally he said “You are going to stand in that corner and let me tell you why. For ninety-five percent of our relationship we’re equal. I don’t try to boss you or tell you what you can do or not do. But we agreed on a few rules and when you break one of them, then I’m in charge and I’ll handle things the way I see fit. That’s going to include corner time and after that I’m going to spank your butt. Your temper tantrum put you out on the river, drifting, no gas, no way home. If you had forgotten your phone you would have been really screwed, wouldn’t you? You think standing in the corner is childish? You tell me one thing about your actions today that weren’t childish. When you screw up like that you give up your right to say what you will and will not do. Get it?”

“Ahh… Cassie, I knew he was right but I just couldn’t make myself give in. I just stood there glaring at him.”

Finally he said “Fine, I give you your choice in this corner thing.”

Great, I thought, I am going to have some kind of out.

“Here’s the deal. You can stand there with a white butt or a red one – you pick.”

“That’s no choice!” I spat at him.

“Fine” he answered. “Red it is!”

“Don’t even say it Cassie, I know I was stupid, and it gets worse.”

Remember I was just wearing my bathing suit – about zero protection. He pulled me over his knee and started with his hand just about as hard as he could. I was realizing fast that I should have just let him take his stupid shower and calmed down. He was spanking really fast and I finally yelled. “Stop. I’ll do it, I’ll do it!”

“You’ll do what?” he stopped and asked me.

“I’ll stand in the damn corner!”

I stared at Allie in horror. What on earth had the girl been thinking?

Don’t look at me like that Cassie – I know I’m stupid! Boy I didn’t think he could take that spanking up another notch but he did. “Do you really think this is a good time to start cussing at me?” He wanted to know. I was crying by the time he finished. But when he said “Now get those bottoms off and get in that corner.” I didn’t argue any more.

As I stood there rubbing all I could do was hope and praying that he took a nice long shower. I needed time to recover. I was pretty sure he was going to use that friggin hair brush he has. He only uses it when he’s really pissed and he was. I wasn’t sure I could take it on top of what I had just gotten. I have to admit I wasn’t thinking about why I shouldn’t have taken the boat out. I was really wondering why Tom had ever mentioned spanking to Ryan in the first place and why the hell did I agree to do along with it?

I had to chuckle. I’m sure she has asked herself that more than once.

He didn’t shower every long. I could hear him getting dressed. I heard him come into the room but I didn’t turn around. He finally said “Allie, come over here.”

Cassie, when I turned around he looked so hot! Tight jeans, no shirt, that beautiful six pack, his hair wet and combed back. He was gorgeous except for that hideous black brush he was holding. I went to him and gave him a really good kiss and said “Please Ryan, I’m really sorry. But you’ve already spanked me. Can’t you just forgive me and skip any more. Maybe we could just spend the afternoon in bed.”

He stopped me from kissing him anymore, and told me “You know you’re forgiven but that doesn’t make the spanking you’ve got coming go away.” He took off my bathing suit top. I mean geeze, I was completely naked and he’s more interested in spanking than making love. What’s wrong with him?

“Oh, honey” I interjected. “If you find an answer to that question please tell me. It seems once they decide they’re going to spank nothing changes their minds. And you can trust me, I’ve tried everything!”

We shook our head and the shortcoming in our men and Allie went on. He pulled me over his lap again and then asked me why I was getting spanked. I told him it was because I did something he thought was stupid and dangerous.

“It was stupid and dangerous.” He told me. “Specifically, you cussed at me when I told you no about taking the morning off.” He started with the brush and I was about to jump out of my skin! “I wouldn’t ask you to blow off the restaurant one night on a whim.” I could have told him that that was different - I mean his schedule is more flexible than mine. But I thought just begging him to stop was about all I could handle at the moment. Geeze, Cassie that damn thing really hurts!

I knew it did and I nodded in sympathy.

The next thing he said was that it was also for taking the boat out when I had a rule from him and Dad not to do it. That brush was about to ignite my butt, I didn’t think I could take it. I threw my hand out but I managed to keep from reaching back. Ryan said, “You get that hand in my way and you’ll be sorry. Don’t they know how hard it is not to reach back? I did stop myself but I was kicking some. He put his leg over mine and just kept going. I was just sobbing finally saying I was sorry and I would never do it again. When he stopped he rubbed the back of the brush over my butt. And I just collapsed over his lap.

“There’s one more thing…” he started to say.

“No, please. No more with the brush. I can’t take it!” I told him.

“All right, no more brush.” he agreed. He started rubbing my butt. He was rubbing lightly but it still hurt. He helped me up. “Allie we’re still going to talk about your carelessness. Going off in a huff and not checking the gas put you in real danger. Sometimes there are assholes out on the water that would like nothing better than to find someone like you alone and stranded, if that had happened what would you have done? Tell me that.”

“Cassie that never even occurred to me, I think Ryan has an over developed imagination .”

“He must have caught it from Tom.” I told her, “That man can turn anything into a reason to spank. I could be reading quietly in a chair and he’d decide to spank me for putting myself in danger of getting a paper cut!” Allie and I laughed together but sometime I think there is some truth in it than Tom will admit.

Anyway, Allie went on. He took me around to the back of the couch. Then he started unbuckling his belt. All I could think was ‘no, No, NO!!’ But my thinking wasn’t stopping him. I had to bend over the stupid couch and he swatted me with that belt HARD about five times. I could hear the damn thing whistling through the air. I was about ready to jump the couch when he stopped. That thing left bruises.

When it was over he hugged me and just let me cry. I was sorry about everything, that I’d cussed him, and that I’d taken the boat out alone and that I hadn’t checked the gas. And I was really sorry that I’d gotten spanked for it all.

As she finished her story we sat in silence for a while. I finally told her “I’m really sorry honey. Every time you get a serious spanking I feel so guilty. It’s directly our fault that your relationship is like this. I wish I could take it all back. But you can’t un-ring a bell”

“Cassie! Are you kidding me? Don’t you dare say that or I’ll never tell you one more thing about Ryan and me. You guys brought Ryan into my life! I couldn’t be more grateful, and the spanking part, well most of them I really love too. Even the really hard ones like this are worth it to have Ryan in my life.”

“Besides,” she went on. “He was a real gentleman afterwards and offered to kiss anything that hurt and make it feel all better. And he did!” she told me with a slight blush.

I didn’t tell her right then that I had Tom’s full consent to take the boat out alone. When I told her later she was jealous but decided not to tackle her dad or Ryan for the same privilege.

Well that was one of our summer adventures. Both Allie and Ryan are back at school now and the neighborhood is just not the same without them. Although do manage to have some pretty good times on our own. I’ll definitely work to fine more time to write and keep everyone more up to date. But my birthday present will be occupying my attention too! Perhaps the two, my gift and my need to write, can be combined. You’ll hear from me soon.