pvtguy

Brian described Toby accurately: "14 going on 40!" His enthusiasm is contagious and his environmental curiosity is enviable. Russ is definitely part of the family now!

Having read comments about this story, I just had to binge read it! Thus, my first comment on it. Brian and Gordon are such a wonderful pair: they enjoy being with each other, they are so open, reflective, and compatible. They balance each other. Can't wait for the wedding! Toby is amazing. In spite of the lack of interaction with his father for so many years, the quality they had when they were together created the bond that only strengthens daily. Personal note: I became a single parent of a son whose mother had very little interaction with him after the age of 13. Deirdre has a better relationship with Toby than my son's mother had with him! We have a close bond though we are total opposites in so many ways. Still, our relationship is based on mutual respect of our differences and enjoyment of that which we have in common. I admire Brian and Gordon for fostering that respect in Toby and Toby's response to their love and acceptance! I am really enjoying this story!

Oh to experience Oslo - or anywhere in Scandanavia - for a weekend. I love how the "rough edges" are being smoothed in the give and take. They are forging a really wonderful relationship.

How wonderful to see the layers of self-doubt and negative self-image get replaced by confidence through love! Great chapter!

I love the writing and how you have encompassed both the characters and the readers in tension. I was between "love" and "wow" as far as choosing an emoji, but love won out. This is exemplary writing!

Joe is really warming up and showing great consideration for his mother and uncles. Interesting encounter with Piggy. I wonder what his next move might be! A British friend of mine would have described the Methodist church in very much the same descriptive words - he loves Victorian architecture and style. I chuckled at that 1950's description.

Porridge is in the safety of Billie's house whereas the animals in the refuge are essentially in the open. I would imagine this is the thought behind not going to get the cat. However, as an animal lover, I would still be quite worried until I had my pet with me! As for the murderer...I like to be surprised by twists in the plot, so I am lazily waiting until all is revealed, lol.

Several storms are brewing - not just the weather! Billie is the calming presence in it all! Well written!

The true nature of family is developing for all of them! They are getting comfortable with things outside their "normal" frame of reference and growing in love, appreciation and respect. I agree with @drsawzall: there is more than enough to explore with all these characters to go on for quite a while. Just the tracking of the money could well be a story in itself!

More intrigue....between Danny's story and the hurricane ramping up, there is quite the tension built in this chapter! Well done! I certainly know the anxiety of living through a strong hurricane! The constant wondering if each hurricane season will bring on a fierce storm exists from June through November!

Colin has come a long way in a short time. His self-confidence is evident throughout this chapter. Is Annalisa starting to disconnect from Miles, or does she have an ulterior motive? It's not evident either way just yet...we'll see as the story evolves more. Great, albeit short, chapter! Another please!!!

Mhairi's layers of protective shields are slowly peeling away, but many more layers until she is fully open and accepting. She is helping Owain, however, in reflecting on his relationship with Colin. Colin is certainly committed to Owain. They enjoy each other's company. Moving in is the logical step to take. I am eager to see if Joe will be invited to help in the decoration of the new house.

I especially resonated with Craig: while the others have become accustomed to the high life, this was so new to him! Reminded me of the first time I flew in first class! This is certainly notches above that! Another thing that hits me with every chapter: the humility of Andrew and Ryan. The deal with everyone as equal humans, each with their unique talents that make for a wonderful service to their guests. Their business model is enviable. Thank you for continuing this story.

Having gone through a few hurricanes with pets, I can assure you, it's equal to the Fourth and New Year's Eve in terms of the anxiety of dogs!

Rory is in for a heap of trouble, hopefully tempered by her cooperation, but guilty nonetheless. And now - the storm! That causes anxiety in me just reading about a hurricane!

Lovely chapter! I'm loving the awakening of Colin.

Oh to have been selected to share time with Carlos! He brought us such wonderful stories that challenged, entertained, and educated. I could really see him giving the finger to Mar a Lago and its reprehensible occupant - one who stands for everything that Carlos, through CJ, railed against!

Poetry is such a powerful medium through which profound thought can be expressed so succinctly, but oh so richly, that the reader can enter into a transcendent space. This is no exception: crafted by an exceptional author, while a tribute to an author loved by many, the thoughts can certainly lead one to reflect on what lies beyond death.

Beautiful thoughts so skillfully expressed. While no one of us "know" for certitude what lies beyond death, I would like to hope there is more than solitude - life in a totally different form but surrounded by total love. Guess we'll all find out!

Powerful poetry that conveys both a message that is much needed today and every day and a beautiful tribute to a man who influenced many through his masterful writing, his life, and relationships. This is written by an equally powerful writer.

Every tribute is well-deserved and earned by Carlos! Thank you for sharing your wonderful words! Beautiful writing evoking great imagery. Tony

All I can say is "Wow!" and thank you! I was looking forward to meeting Carlos on his next trip to Orlando, but that never happened.

Powerful verses! Isn't this also the state of actions in all of history: the "conquerors" of a region reshape that region in their image and in doing so, force the conquered to follow a new definition of what it means to be civilized? Religions do it, governments do it, "nationalities" do it...even parents, schools, neighborhoods do it! Thank you for reminding us of Carlos: his voice is missed greatly by all of us who loved him through his powerful writing. However, your words are no less powerful! Thank you for sharing your insights and reflections via your poetry.

I do so relate with Colin: very cautious, frugal, curious, yet willing to try new experiences. This was a wonderfully warm chapter showing the growing awakening of Colin and the joy Owain finds in him. Wishing all a New Year filled with awakenings of their own!

May your and all your readers' Christmas be filled with joy! May inner peace and blessings make the New Year rich for all.