pvtguy

I can understand this POV, but I also think about when the kids are older and think about their mother. It is great that what they will remember is her in better health and wanting to give them the gift of a loving home, which they have found. I do know that there is also the POV that one wants to be able to learn from and say things from their parent while they can. Perhaps in that Hunter and Hayden are still rather young (8 years old), then having negative memories of the nursing home would not be the greatest either. I like the way you're handling it - just my own questions.

Another enjoyable chapter. And...we got to vicariously visit a museum and ride an Incline Plane! Just wondering - what is the distance they have to travel to visit Julie? I can't understand why they wouldn't visit more often, realizing her condition and that they are eventually going to have to deal with her death?

Slow, but sure, it sounds as though things are starting to fall into place.

I would absolutely love to see another volume to this story! You know that I would be more than happy to proofread once again! Tony

" I'm still considering another book, but I'll be putting out a feeler in the next chapter to see how many are interested in me doing that." Can you consider the first vote for another book? Yes!!!!!

To be honest - and I know you don't want me to be dishonest - this is slogging along a little too slowly for my taste. Doesn't mean I won't continue - I will. I like the story actually. There just seems to be so little action occurring. Perhaps that is your strategy: all this builds up to a sudden revelation and then the consequences. I guess we shall see!

And...a math lesson along with a story of potential seduction!

Truly wonderful It was a great trip down memory lane in addition to feeling the warmth of the family.

Another wonderful chapter. I got a good chuckle out of the scene with Becky seeing the boys skinny dipping. I also felt the emotion between Holly and her mother as they said their 'good-byes'. Thanks again for continuing this story. It has been a joy to read it from the very beginning. Tony

The true mark of friendship.

I hear themes of Bluegrass in the last two poems. Beautiful!

I am amazed at the planning it takes to even do the most mundane things - like playing video games - when you have this amount of people living under the same roof! This entire series started with, and continues, with some very loving adult(s) who responded to a need and providing a home for boys who, otherwise, would have been either homeless or institutionalized. It deals with issues realistically - such as acknowledging that the boys would be sexually active - but wraps them in a positive and spiritually based lifestyle. This chapter demonstrates these points most aptly. Great going, Bill.

Just wondering if Danny and Brandon will have a talk with Holly as they did with Noah and Ryan? Even if she is confused, it might help her to talk it out... Anyway, another enjoyable chapter in this wonderful series. Tony

There are many aspects of this story that are outstanding: the rich descriptions of the town of Ravello and the surrounding environs encourages one (as it did for me) to actually research and see pictures of the area to fully appreciate the experience that young Gianni discovers after he has been transplanted there following the death of his parents. It is a story of generational differences in understanding. It is a story of how grief is experienced by those generations. Gianni finds a friend in Angelo and, in recalling his parents' teaching to him to be true to himself, discovers feelings. This is a story that is exceptionally well-written and, while slow in its development, is fully engaging in its emotional depth.

This is truly a wonderfully well written story about family dynamics, greed, love, fear of being "different" with the accompanying exaggeration of fear of reactions of others, and, finally, love and resolution.

I have followed all 5 stories in this series. While I hate to see stories end - especially when I get involved with the characters and the plots - I do understand they must. This is a much more fitting ending than the last chapter and I applaud you for doing it.

I enjoyed this story more so than many others which are also well written as this had a lot more interpersonal interactions. However, that said, I am disappointed with the ending: it seems as though it just stops without completing Xander's graduation and the surprise party for the class. There was no reason given for Chas' presence other than to give ride to his younger brother - did he want to apologize/ He wasn't given the chance. To me, it just seems as this was a hurried chapter so that other stories could be posted.

Your usual excellence is showing again! Thanks for a great chapter. Though I know it must come to an end, as always, I've grown attached to the story and characters and hate to see it stop. Perhaps at another time you might treat us with a follow-up volume.... Tony

Oh the memories it recalls for me of the first day back to school after summer vacation! 47 of those days!

Ah...another peel of the onion pulled back! Who else would be hiding cigarettes in the garage but Don? And his erratic behavior can definitely be fueled by drug use. Jo has hit upon something. Now we await to see how this turns out! Excellent job, Dodger!!! Tony

When I clicked on the link announcing the story, it led me directly to the story...I just went back and found the story note...now understood. Thanks again for another Carlos story. Hope we see more as I really like your writing.

Good story. Another Liebe! Love the name even if it means "love". Tony

I have enjoyed all the stories you have posted with these characters and learned so much about Australia and the various places traveled. It has provided me with a vicarious vacation, for sure! This story is wonderful and is showing much more warmth of the characters which I find appealing.

Since the very first volume of this series, I have loved the idea of a home such as was founded by Josh. His love and spirit have created a beautiful family that continues to grow, even if only fictional. I would love to see this happen in real life! I wish I could have done this in a much bigger way myself - I did allow my small condo to be home for my son (I was a single parent) and any all of his friends who needed a place to stay any time from a night or two to a year and a half. There are so many young people who for various reasons find themselves homeless. At my age now, I am afraid I am no longer in the position to do more than assist where I can and support through mentoring and contributions. This story inspires me to do more. Thanks, Bill, for continuing it as long as you have. As far as I am concerned, you can continue for many more years!!! Tony

I love how you weave into your story depth of characters, compelling plot, twists and turns, and true and real situations. You are truly a gifted writer and I am so grateful you share your talent with us! Tony