pvtguy

While it's a shock to realize a part of one's life is over due to a death or divorce, it is also a great realization that life does go on and it is up to each of us to make it worthwhile. That can certainly lead to more education, reorganizing one's living situation, etc. Great chapter of moving on... Tony

I agree with all the observations so far, but will note that Cameron - who appears to be more like Andrew in sensitivity and personality - will listen to what Andrew said. Coming from an Italian family - my mother, though English-Irish but claimed to be "Italian by injection" - loud reprimands were par for the course, but effective! I do so want to experience the travels and cuisine but have very serious doubts that I will be able to do more than live vicariously through your very descriptive writing. Thanks for sharing your talents! Tony F

Loved the confirmation of how grounded CJ is! Great chapter!

And the rich get richer... but they are still very grounded!

Another excellent chapter! Disney is definitely an adventure for families. Unfortunately, it is getting priced out of range for families who do not have the means of the Devlin-Majors! The experience is still magical, but it seems not for people of limited financial means! I definitely want to try some of the foods you mention! They sound wonderful!

“Really, Oz? If they’re writing about me, you and the munchkin are part of the story. There’s nothing special about me without the two of you.” This really sums up CJ's self-perception and his reality. He is self-effacing, but also confident in his personal strengths and values! Another wonderful chapter, Carlos! Tony F

I have always wanted to take a train trip through Canada. Thanks for providing me with the opportunity without having to sit in a seat for hours on end! As I live in Orlando, I would love to have met them on their trip here, but will enjoy sharing their trip through your ever so descriptive narrative. Wonderful writing!

How moving away from what we are so used to changes us. And it's true: you can go back "home", but it isn't home any more. Having lived with William for a few years changed Addy in many ways, but it is now showing: she now has to decide for herself what her life will be - it won't be decided by any man. And either I had to adjust to that, or I had to start making some things happen for myself. I could take some trips. And I could make new friends. And I could always read and ask questions. But meanwhile, I just thanked the Lord for giving me both Martin and William. Another wonderful chapter!!

A wonderful and warm story of love, adventure, family, and making visions into reality. Sudden wealth does not change the personality of Andrew Devlin, but allows him to enrich the lives of many others. Andrew marries the love of his life, Ryan Majors and together, they build a life and business together. It will keep the reader looking up recipes and places throughout Africa, the Mediterranean, continental Europe and Scotland. This is a must read!

Addy is experiencing something similar to what my mother did once she moved to Florida: after a couple of years here, she said to me that in reflection, she had 'existed' for her first 69 years and really 'lived' here. I certainly could relate to that. Addy also is confused about her relationship to William: in her mind, it feels like incest, but also very exciting and liberating in addition to educational/experiential. I am truly pleased for her: She certainly was the "giver" throughout her life and she is finally being able to receive. Now to see where this leads. Again, thanks for another chapter to a wonderful story.

As always, both educational and entertaining! I would love to view the equinox too but know that is not in my future. However, I will continue to enjoy my life where I am currently planted. CJ and Owen do lots of good wherever they are - a true inspiration to all they meet and to us! Apparently, a Happy Birthday is due! Thank you for the gifts you have shared with us through our writing. May the future years be filled with unexpected blessings! Tony F

Wow...I didn't expect this. It's a nice turn of events and a possibility for Addy to really experience life in a whole new way to her. So what if it's her "cousin/nephew"? They won't be having children!

Loved this chapter. Full of fun, but also great conversations which lead to future actions.

Albie might be more able to take care of himself than the others realize. Still, he married someone who can also look after him. He might have a simpler view of life than others, but there is nothing to say he is incapable of taking care of himself. He might very well know the basics. It seems Addy has assumed the role of matriarch in that she tries to keep everyone connected.

I don't see CJ as conceited at all: he just uses his money and fame as tickets to further service to others. He's fiercely protective of his family, highly emotional but also very smart. Owen keeps him balanced as he also energizes Owen. They make a great team. And as far as either adding to or forming other squads, that is the nature of growing older and living in various places: we have the ability to create a circle of friends. Great chapter once again! Tony

Worth the wait since last posting. Robbie is definitely maturing as far as family is concerned, excluding Don. Beware Pastors who speak with forked tongues....

Joann had the experience of finding an amazing love that ended far too soon, but only reinforces my distrust of motorcycles! Cars and trucks may not be totally safe either, but accidents don't always end up in the same manner as those on motorcycles. My son went through a phase with motorcycles and I was on edge every time he went out - even knowing he had taken a safety course before his first ride on one! While I trusted him, I didn't have the same faith in other idiots who drive as though they are the only ones on the road which they treat like a raceway!

A delightful chapter. When CJ starts with the revenge retorts, he is ruthless. Owen has a good point: he needs to re-read his own book as, without realizing it, he takes on the persona of a bully with verbal abuse. All in all, a very entertaining episode!

And thus is the circle of life. The one thing most don't want to deal with is mortality - especially their own. When a couple has had a devoted marriage, the loss of a partner finds the survivor with the challenge of building a life alone - even if they have children/grandchildren. Nothing is the same anymore. New traditions must be made (Sunday dinners at Del's house). The last line is the most telling - one tends to keep the focus on others and fails to truly deal with how they are dealing. Great chapter.

Wow! Lots of action in this chapter! Looks like a few new twists may be taking place - a different role for CJ in the Embassy could result in much more intrigue. Excellent chapter, Carlos!

So very good to get a glimpse of some of the Squad! These are the friends one can see after a while and pick up the conversation as if time had not been interrupted. They also will be the support each needs whenever that might be. Now...back to Mexico!

I am the oldest of three. Haven't had to bury a sibling yet. This is the true circle of life. One generation passes on and the next is left to be the "leaders". It is happening to my friends and I see how it is affecting them. This was a great chapter: it truly shows some of the more "secret" side of families - things that are not shared with others but are special between the spouses.

Going back to see things in my hometown on my last visit, I was of the same mind as Dougie: I thought that houses would still be where they were and people taking care of them. What I found were empty lots or boarded up places. The house where my parents lived for 28 years and put lots of sweat making it look nice and welcoming had broken and/or boarded over windows with curtains blowing through them. I was supposed to stay for a few more days to visit people, but I was so overwhelmed by the whole experience that I left the following morning and have no intention of ever returning. I remember the family meals at my grandparents' house growing up - much like described above - and then the number of people gathering on Sundays becoming less and less. When my grandmother died - so did the family gatherings. What I learned most from all this is the family I have built where I live now. Though not related by blood, we are as close as any family and can count on one another.

Well...the comfortable lull is over and life is in full swing once again. Could it be possible that Domogarov might also have another agenda than defection? Love the intrigue!

Thank you for saying what I was meaning in a much clearer manner. Of course, the story is portraying the infancy of a relationship and, in doing so, must create the drama that will keep readers involved in seeing the growth through challenges, development of deeper feelings and maturity.