Synopsis

Lyle is a struggling teenager with low self-esteem. His poor decisions reinforce his reputation as a troublemaker. Marylin arrives at a new high school and navigates the challenge of fitting in. When Lyle sets his eyes on the new girl at school, he is smitten. He is determined to win Marylin’s affection.

Eventually, Lyle convinces Marylin to give him a shot, and a relationship follows. Their story together is filled with obstacles, but their commitment to one another provides the foundation for a lifetime of happiness. Together, they dream of a family and a destination to gather friends and loved ones. Against all odds, they secure both.

A Yellow House In The Mountains is a story of overcoming adversity. Lyle and Marylin lean on each other to build a legacy never to be forgotten. Challenges come early and often, yet, their determination and faith push them forward in pursuing their dreams.

The events of October 21, 2020, were historical and costly. By the end of the day, more than 193,000 acres and more than 400 homes were consumed in the East Troublesome Fire, Colorado’s fastest-moving fire in history. Lyle and Marylin understood living in their mountain paradise had risks. How would they prepare? What actions could they take? Did their preparations make a difference when the fire arrived on their doorstep? Their approach to the oncoming fire was consistent with their approach to other challenges in their lives…they faced it together.

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Excerpt

The investment in a new business, plus the expenses of a new home were mounting. Even though he was only 35 years old, his schedule wasn’t sustainable and it finally caught up with him. Lyle suffered a stroke.

“Marylin, he must slow down,” the doctor explained. “He’s lucky you got him here so quickly or the damage done would have been more severe.”

“I thought strokes only happened to old people,” Marylin replied.

“Generally, that’s true. But, there are other causes. Has he been dealing with difficult work issues? Is he under any stress?”

“He’s been working multiple jobs for years. Stress is what drives him,” Marylin explained.

“Not anymore. He needs to slow down a bit.”

Lyle’s speech was impacted only for a short time. Fortunately, his mobility and memory remained intact. After a few days of rest, he felt good enough to return to the fire station but upon his return home, he found his spouse waiting at the door.

“I want you to sell the business. I need you and it simply isn’t worth risking your health by holding three jobs,” Marylin said.

Lyle understood his lifestyle wasn’t sustainable but was driven by his ambition to provide well for the family. “But Punk, we have so many financial obligations,” Lyle countered.

Anticipating his concern, Marylin shared her solution. “I’m going to find a job. With the kids all in school, I’ve got time and want to help.”

Reluctantly, Lyle agreed to support Marylin’s efforts.

She began with a search through the newspaper want ads. While there were many offers of employment, most required a college degree or minimally, graduation from high school. With neither in her resume, Marylin was drawn to the ads in the restaurant and service industries. One job stood out from the others as it offered a significantly higher wage and referenced additional compensation from tips. Excited to pursue the job, Marylin called and set up a time for an interview. On the day of the interview, Marylin carefully dressed in her Sunday best attire. She was a hard worker and determined to impress the potential employer. She drove about 15 minutes to East Colfax Avenue to an office building surrounded by numerous restaurants, bars, and motels. As she entered, a young receptionist greeted her.

“I’m here for an interview,” Marylin shared.

“Great. Have a seat. Mr. King will be with you shortly,” the receptionist instructed.

As she waited, she couldn’t help but notice the numerous photographs and awards on the walls. She thought, Mr. King must be a very important individual. Marylin recognized many of the celebrities and political figures from TV and newspaper articles. Feeling a little intimidated, her exploration of the photographs was interrupted by the receptionist, “Mr. King will see you now.”

As she entered the office, she was in awe of the spacious accommodations. Mr. King stood from behind his desk and walked towards Marylin, extending his hand. “So, you’re looking for work?”

Marylin energetically responded, “Oh yes, with my five children now in school, the timing is right, and we can use the extra money.”

“Hmmmm. I don’t think you’d be a good fit for the job,” Mr. King explained.

“But, I’m very good with people, I work hard and know I could be successful,” Marylin persuaded.

“Yes, but,” Mr. King began before Marylin interrupted.

“Can you just give me a chance? You really won’t regret hiring me,” Marylin pled.

Thinking carefully, Mr. King paused. Leaning back in his leather chair, his eyes looked up and down, carefully evaluating Marylin’s appearance.

Why is he looking at me like that?

He then instructed, “Let me see you dance.”

“Dance?” Marylin questioned.

“Young lady, do you know the kind of work you’re here for?” Mr. King inquired.

“Yes, the ad said something about serving in a restaurant,” Marylin stated.

Mr. King then clarified, “Well, we do serve food and drinks, but we’re hiring strippers. I can see you’re not the type.”

Embarrassed, Marylin realized she was in an interview with the owner of Sid King’s Crazy Horse Bar. Later, she was even more shocked to learn of Sid King’s reputation as the “Sultan of Striptease.”

It wasn’t long before Marylin decided she needed to secure a GED. With a degree, her options would expand.

About the Author

Glenn Hileman is the CEO of Highmark School Development and has spent over fifteen years living in Bountiful, Utah. His love of Grand Lake, Colorado led to him purchasing his parent’s home in 2020. His family is actively working to restore the property from the devastation of the East Troublesome Fire. In doing so, they hope to honor the legacy of his parents. “A Yellow House in the Mountains” is his first book.

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