Headstall

Thanks, Les! I appreciate that. it was quite the performance. We see the strength in the Crawley family and how they are always there for one another. A stark difference from what August is used to. As far as the people I write about, there are most often elements drawn from people who have inhabited my life through the years. I have had the worst of people and the best of the people to learn from. This saga has a long way to go yet, so hope you enjoy what's coming, my friend. Cheers! G.

Lol. Who knew Roland and Fletcher were such a thespians? They should quit the dairy business. Hope you like how far we've come and where we're going. Still a long way to go. Cheers, my friend.

Thanks, Albert. These words are kind indeed. Yes, the situation with Willy James and Runyan does deepen the stakes. I was looking forward to them entering the story in a real way. Willy James breaks my heart... I see him as a little bit vulnerable, and maybe too sweet... and now forced to grow up in a hurry. Since that kiss was seen happening in the barn, he has seen nothing but harshness, in his family and in Runyan's. He's one I just want to protect, and so do the boys. We haven't met Runyan yet, but he sounds like a good man. They deserve their chance for happiness... and peace. Thanks, buddy. Your support, as always, is much appreciated. Cheers!

Roland is what a father should be. It likely helps that his best friend, Fletcher's uncle, was gay. It gave him a special insight, seeing how miserable the man was. He doesn't want that for his son. Still, his innate decency goes well beyond that. In essence, he is the antithesis of Albert Cooley. Yup, everything appears to be going to plan, though it hasn't been easy. 'But for the grace of God', as in Rob not seeing them kiss, is what made this possible. Willy James and Runyan weren't so lucky. Yeah... urgency... Willy James and Runyan can't afford to hope things die down. Whatever they do, it needs to be done right away. As far as Rob, he does his father's bidding, and since Albert is no longer suspicious they should be safe from his spying. Besides, Rob has his own problems. But you're right... the boys shouldn't let their guard down for even a second. Thanks, buddy. I hope you're falling in love with these guys like I have. Cheers! Gary.

Hello, my friend. You're right. That 'tussle' was what was needed to happen. Albert, a suspicious man, needed to see that with his own eyes, and neither Crawley disappointed. The easy thing to do would be for August and Fletcher to think only of themselves... and not risk sheltering Willy James and Runyan. They have so much to fear, but it was never a doubt for either of them. And for Roland either. As he says, people should help people. That said, each of those men embarking alone is definitely dangerous, but so is staying in Enniskillen. Sometimes you just have to have faith. Actually, beef cattle are less intensive. The cow/calf operation surrounding my little farm takes very little of the owner's attention. His main concern is the fencing. Dairy cattle is a 24 hour a day job, at least nowadays. Back then there probably wasn't as much concern for optimum feeds, accepting what milk production was given. So, the switch should take some workload away. I did read an interesting article in my research about milk cans being left of train platforms once the train filled its quota. It wasn't until the arrival of milk tank cars that farmers were no longer at the mercy of travel. Fingers crossed, they have a quiet, uncomplicated journey ahead. Thanks, centex. Your support means a lot. Cheers!

So... my oldest son told me he has a new Lexus hybrid being delivered today or tomorrow. I'm not one for spending huge money on cars, but it is okay to say I'm proud of how successful he is? He says he will save half his monthly gas bill, and he got $48,000 on his truck trade in, which was fully paid for. I know I'm his dad, but he is incredibly smart.

Woot! I'm a little bit jealous, Chris. Have fun and be safe.

Just a guess... when you're not sleeping?

The kind of pinch that would leave a gaping wound.

Worst... or best?

I saw it and loved it. I believe I posted about it.

Chapter nine....

Showdown After his at-times-gut-wrenching talk with Willy James, August made his way back towards the smithy and his team. He’d seen some hope on his friend’s face before he left, and was determined to help keep it there. A talk with Fletcher was needed before he could sort it all out in his head, but he was pretty sure he knew what had to happen. Upon reaching the main street and turning the corner, still somewhat lost in his thoughts, he heard raised voices behind him.

That's great news, Kris. I am happy for you. Relief from pain is almost better than sex.

I second this!

I am so glad to hear this, that you were fully engaged in the chapter. There are so many ways to write something. I am conscientious with regards to the readers, and I am diligent in my attention to detail, but that doesn't mean I don't get it wrong from time to time. "Write what you know". Sometimes I have to write about things with the only perspective I have... mine. That can fall short, but I do try. I will tell you this... Willy James and Runyan were a big part of what first entered my head when this story came to be. So yeah, two couples... will their paths cross from here on, and if so, how? Cheers, sweet lady.

I agree. They need to put Albert's suspicions to rest. The man is scary clever. As far as Rob and August, I can tell you my older brother and I couldn't be more different. My bio dad was cold to me, but spoiled my brother, the first born who resembled him. I looked like my mother. Sound familiar? I believe parents can do a lot to set siblings against one another, and I lived that. My father would have us box before the hockey game every Saturday night, and I never saw him angrier at me than the first time I knocked my brother down and he stayed down. He didn't say I did good, or anything positive to me, and he gave my brother crap for losing. It confused me at the time, but I eventually saw and accepted he loved my brother best. Even that line about looking too much like his mother for his own good... I had the same thing said to me... about me being too 'pretty' for my own good. Damn! it's amazing what writing brings up from the past. Thanks, my dear friend. New chapter tomorrow.

Hello, folks.

Safe travels, friend.

Bitch, please!

24 carat, sunshine.

Oh... really?

Yup... more roleplaying.