Anton_Cloche

Hmm, either you're older than we think, as you seem to be quoting (quokking?) from original mid to late 60's TV series, OR, you watched reruns in the 90's OR ??

Lots happening and becoming clearer with this chapter. The 5-ish years since Armand and Colin first fostered then adopted Tommy, Ronnie, Richie and Ivan has seen everyone 'grow' up. Now on the cusp of college and beyond, we see the 'boys' emulating their Dad, Pop and others adults. When Roger asks Armand if he and Colin will adopt more, the answer may be prophetic: "For the next 10 years, we have these 6. If a child comes along that needs us, we will adopt them, as well.” As for Nonna / Carmela she is showing all of her 70-ish years by slowing down. And her younger years (in Italy after WWII) may have 'aged' her prematurely. So this trip Stateside will be her last, but these days many Nonna's live into their 90's and beyond. Similarily, Colin's Dad is getting on in years and his health has taken a bit out of him. But John and the Judge (who granted the adoptions), have much knowledge to pass on to Richie as he looks forward to college and becoming a lawyer like his Pop and Grandfather. This summer and the European vacation will be special indeed. Thank you again Cal for this epic story of a young man's journey (guided by his GG); to meeting his life long partner (the 'nude' study in a painting class), through college, careers, starting their family (by helping children in need) plus their philanthropic and some would (rightly) say humanitarian attitudes they are sharing with their children 🫂.

Another wonderful chapter Carlos. Paul and Molly's wedding weekend is turning in to a bit of a 3-ring circus. Les Sarrins Côtes de Provence Rosé 2021 is a perfect choice for a 'clambake', or seashore grill. Isn't even affected by lots of melted butter (for lobster dipping) or garlic bread. It keeps its' off-dry, crisp taste with light fruit hints, and medium body (great 'legs', and lingering extended finish. But like most rosé, it's meant to be drunk young, not for extended cellaring. (Sorry Ceej and Oz). Appearance of SecNav not surprising with this crowd, and his Cuba comments do deserve a quick recce with Spike. Jen? (By the way, if CJ says it right, it's like saying 'Karen') M'eh! Young, opinionated and most definitely naïve. A product of her culture. Wannabe 'influencer' won't last, or she becomes vapid like (names not mentioned, but you know ). As for CJ lowering the boom (intended pun) on Alt-Reich windbag Jay? Ceej exercised restraint, that he won't if he gets tuckered out. 😉

When Colin and Armand previously spoke about adopting more children, the remark was "We'll still only be in our 30s". Well here they are, almost 5 years later and surprise! Colin is surprised how well the four original brothers responded to the six new siblings: "I thought that the older boys would have resentment for our growing family.” But Armand wisely replied, “Well, the time we share with them would now be shared with the new boys (and girls).” With that firmly settled, we learn more about 'future farmer' Ivan who has been gifted a lightly used tractor as he begins planting vegetables for The Home; and the family makes plans for the summer. Despite Ronnie having a 2-week football camp in August, they can still fit a 1-month European vacation / business trip (Paris for Armand and Barcelona for Colin & Alesander) if they leave mid-July. In the meantime, they launch the new fishing boat with great success in their first 'at sea'. However, before that when Colin asked how the boys were sure the boat was ready, Tommy replied: "Grandmother who visits at night". "GG". 'And to all a good night', and a good future, watched over, guided and protected.

Another wonderful chapter, continuing the 'catching up' on Armand, Colin, their four adopted sons, and all the children living at The Home. After just a few years in a stable, loving family, we can see the possible directions their son's lives might take. Richie following Colin's life path in law, Ivan's interests in horticulture (like his grandfather's gardens), Ronnie maybe heading into professional sports (football) but backing that up with teaching. And while Tommy seems to be following Pat's career at The Home, I think his hidden talents are yet to be revealed. Don't forget he is the only person other than Armand who sees, listens to (and talks with?) GG when he's asleep and awake ("in quiet moments"). Has he been blessed with GG's artistic gifts? While I am glad for the six new children in the Rowe-Roberts family; Toby free to speak and big brothers to guide them, I echo @pickuptoy thoughts about children at The Home: "I wonder what goes through the other kids minds when Armand and Colin adopt some of the kids and not them. Its got to bother them. Why them and not me! Why can't they adopt me too! Sad! What's worse are children who spend their whole lives "in care", only to find at 18 that they have "aged out" of the system and find themselves little better off than those leaving prison. No jobs, no money saved up, and out on the streets. We have to do better. 🫂

Where do I begin? This chapter brings a sense of dénouement, and of history repeating itself. The reaction of Arnaud, sitting for hours staring at the portrait (of his son Christen), is such a reminder of little Tommy from the orphanage sitting in Armand's gallery, staring at the painting (by a Yale art student) that reminded him of his dead parents. Armand agrees to accept Arnaud's Villa in France as payment for Christen's portrait, only to gift it to Christen on his wedding day. Colin, in a short period in New Haven Council make some changes, not the least of which is tearing down the old orphanage that stands in front of Richie's 'new' old home, (that is home for the Rowe-Roberts extended family), and replacing it with a garden / green space that resembles the one in front of Richie's first family home. A new son, Toby, and two daughters, Louise and Maryann, are adopted into the family. Summer plans are being made that include another family trip to Europe, and when they return, a fishing trip for all children of The Home. The entrance to The Home gains a painted 'frieze' (a 'Trompe-l'oeil' painting that appears 3-dimensional when viewed) of a Guardian Angel over its' door, protecting the children. (Arch Angel Michael & child) Throughout his life, and that of his extended family, Armand's guiding light, protector and indeed muse has been and is GG, his Great-Grandmother and his ' 🐦 of Happiness'.* *GG's Bluebird

Like others, my first thought was what could an unspeaking Toby 'say' to Santa? Pat said there was no medical reason he couldn't speak. Was a psychological trauma magically overcome when Toby "sat on Santa’s lap? Santa said something, he (Toby) leaned forward as to whisper in his ear. I don’t know what he said, but Santa’s face showed a concern as if Toby asked for something that Santa has never been asked for before. Santa looked at him, kissed his cheek and wiped away a tear from Toby’s face. Then he said something, Toby’s face lit up in a big smile". Knowing these children were from 'The Home' Santa should have talked to Pat or Lois afterwards. But by the end of this chapter it seems that little Toby, Louise and Maryann will be adopted by Armand and Colin (Louvre 'angel' and GG at work?) Christmas went well for all, especially at The Home. Fishing poles for the boys means Colin, John (with his operation a success) and Armand's Dad will be giving fishing lessons. Someone (Pat?) should have realized a flaming dessert in a dark room may terrorize children orphaned by fire in a family home! With John healthy and back at the law firm, Colin has time to get elected to City Council (this will be fun!). One of his first acts may be to grant Yale a 'in lieu of taxes' concession in exchange for 'their' old orphanage torn down with a park replacing it. Arnaud and Jean 's sudden appearance (via private jet from Paris), speaks to his wealth, and ability to pay for the portrait, but what will the price be?

Time seems to fly by so quickly for the family. Talk about Christmas shopping from Marie and the boys. Armand and Colin taking the boys out to choose a 'live' Christmas tree that can be transplanted at The Home after the holidays. And Pat is looking to expand the 'kitchen garden' so children of The Home can run a little roadside 'stand' to sell veggies and fruit to earn their own spending money. Colin and Armand get more info on little Toby (and perhaps why he doesn't speak) and a couple of little girls who could become daughters, while struggling with "If we adopt a child, who or how would we choose. Every child at the Home would want to be adopted. How could we choose"? Decisions will affect all.

Oh my goodness, so many things are changing for the Rowe-Roberts family. The original boys that Armand and Colin took in and adopted are growing up. Little Ronnie, aside from now being a good ball player is studying to take his driving test when he turns 16 in a month. Armand finally convinced his Mom and Dad to sell their big home and 'semi-retire' and move into the building Armand owns next to the gallery. And Dad can "help Colin and Armand teach the boys fishing". Armand's painting of Arnaud's son is finished just waiting for its frame with his signature >>>------> 'Arrow' imprint. And GG is continuing to guide Armand and Colin in selecting new sons - little Toby - and at least one daughter, the baby girl Armand held at the old orphanage who was featured in his painting at the Louvre. Thank you Cal @CLJobe for another wonderful chapter.

It's obvious the wealthy Swiss businessman's two spoiled rotten sons learned nothing from their slap on the wrist leniency after stealing the first yacht. I suspect Zac's Dad and Jordan's parents will be phoning the businessman in Europe ASAP but this time ADF and SAS need to be involved and charges for international piracy, at least a $12Million fine and a lengthy stay in one of HM Australian prisons. Even if the pirates turned off AIS so they can't be tracked at sea, preliminary tracking would give an indication of where they may have gone. Also, if Zac phoned Jordan's SatPhone, Inmarsat tracks that separate from AIS and could help triangulate location. Time for these pirates to swim with sharks.

@Carlos Hazday sent this on 'family chat': "Feliz Dia de los Reyes Happy Insurrection Day" Is there more than a little irony today that three supposed 'magos' on a journey up a hill, seek a special 'place'? And '12' like number of apostles? Moving on in this wonderful story, we see CJ, Owen and wedding attendees 'pirating' a boat to go off on a sail of their own. (With a soundtrack for Owen) Joining the party at sea is CJ's former 'co-worker' Spike, informing others of CJ and Owens past CDMX 'adventures' and providing tips and 'logistical' information for their upcoming visit to Cuba (rich in detail and no foreshadowing 😉). I love CH Fridays. It's amazing how much can get put into saddlebags.

Wow, Zac being able to give his English Lit presentation to his class on the beach with the catamaran at anchor in Champion Bay is so much better than the essays I wrote, back in school on 'How I spent my summer vacation'. His new school position as Prefect of WSAC may surprise him, especially if it cuts into his time being onboard Stingray, now that Jordan plans on leaving the ship in Zac's hands. Good star to another STS story.

Have done nieces & nephews birthday parties - 16 kids, teams of 4, spread over 4 lanes for hours. Even for little ones with light weight balls and 'bumpers' so no gutters.

Another great chapter Carlos with even more background information and reminders of how people fit into the puzzle that is the CJVerse. Hmm, maybe the 'anchor' (whose first job was ironically as a 'Fact Checker' to uncover false and misleading information), could literally run into CJ, Ozzie and Liebe, pushing her out of his way, as he rushes into Oceana seafood restaurant, (serving Liebe's favorite "slimees"), at Rockefeller Center, where they had lunch after NBC interview?

Carlos' OCD? Harley would say it's mandatory for every HOG rider, polishing chrome off bikes? But the newest CJVerse drop on New Year's Day is especially welcome. Trash talking still in play, even for "snotty parties" (per Ozzie). This chapter already leaving 'breadcrumbs' big enough to fill up ducks (obscure crew 'paddling' reference).

A wonderful chapter to close 2022 (reader's timeline). Lots of activity, but first time going door-to-door Halloween experience for 'Home' children not what they expected, with just candy dropped in bag at door and no chatting with people. (Next year to be better)? Thanksgiving and all too soon, Nonna/Carmela and village children headed back to Italy. Need to learn more about Bill (aged out of orphanage), and little Toby who seems to have delayed ability to speak. Maybe a hearing issue, hopefully nothing more, but a new son for Armand and Colin (winking), and perhaps a daughter, abandoned baby from “Armand’s painting in the Louvre.”? “I remember the painting because Armand was very upset. Is this the little girl in the painting?” Mom's and Mary say, “She’s cute. Armand you need a girl in your home. “I’m not equipped to raise a girl.” “You have been raising a girl for the last few months. Don’t forget Marie, she can help.” Lots of changes coming in New Year including fishing boat, and additions to barn make room for a 2-lane bowling for children? (Something for rainy days?)

Oh thank goodness! What a fright to wake up to, and I expect Ryan and Andrew will have some work to allay the fears of "The four children were all huddled in Cameron and Jamie's cabin and flung themselves at their daddy when he appeared in the companion way. He hugged them all and Cameron asked, "Daddy, what's happening?", his bottom lip trembling". Especially as they would be recalling, even years later, mums Beth & Nikki dying trapped below deck. Happily everyone is safe and sound, after a sad farewell to MY Amira, but arriving home to a soggy but familiar Cape Town. Looking forward to new beginnings with the opening of Drakensburg resort, and the launch of the Lady Janice. Thank you Andre for your wonderfully writing! Best wishes to you and yours for a prosperous, healthy and Happy New Year, gesondheid en Gelukkige Nuwe Jaar.

Another interesting and busy chapter, with plans for Halloween and Thanksgiving, plus homecoming dances now that three of Armand and Colin's four sons are entering high school (Ivan has a few years to wait). Also plans for where to take 'Uncle's Home' children to Trick or Treat, so that they are seen as part of the community and not just 'orphans' that are 'unwanted' and to break that stigma! Mom and Dad's new apartment, plans for Nonna's trip back to Italy with village children, and a brief stopover in Spain for Colin to oversee Alesander's Pescateria. Then there is Armand and Colin's first exposure to Parent-Teacher nights to discuss their son's education, only to discover ever-present and barely disguised 'bigot brigade' known as PTA, that sticks it's nose where it doesn't belong, but is both allowed and encouraged to by Boards of Education. It's not just the BAC faction dictating christianity (and openly abhorring anything that doesn't align with their narrow 'views'), it is their constant indoctrination of their child to carry on this crap to the next generation. "A pox on all their houses". (Ooh a sore spot?). Next up?

Echoing other's comments, the review of past events and people in this chapter, along with some obvious plans for the future, seems to be putting Armand, Colin and everyone's feet on the path to normalcy aka 'normality'. Let's hope this doesn't appear.

IF jealousy raises its ugly head, I think it will be over the demands on Armand and Colin's lives, both professional (having to do with "Uncle's House", the boat, artwork and business in Spain), and personal (as in not enough time for them alone). Plus issues with Colin's dad John, 'his' health and their joint law practice. Armand and Colin have been "burning the candle at both ends" AND from the middle. I think Tommy will be the first of their boys to bring his fear of their Dad and Papa breaking up, into the open. Decisions will be made, each will give up a little to save a lot - the family, both immediate and the larger family that includes ALL the children. Hope & pray. Thank you Cal @CLJobefor another really good chapter! * * * * * * NOTE TO READERS: Putting on my editor's (sometime 'publisher') cap with a comment and plea (with apologies to the GA "Powers that be"). The MANY readers who enjoy FREE stories (this & others) on Gay Authors (and other sites), need to show appreciation and support of the hard work authors put in to create these stories. Please - click an emoji. Write a 'constructive' comment. Support authors through buying 'actual' printed copies of their stories (plus e-books Kindle, Kobo etc) and Patreon IF you can. There are hundreds of online authors who have simply vanished in the last 20 years, with unfinished excellent stories. Many wrote under 'Pen names' (for whatever reason), and can't found to enquire about them. Support and encourage authors while they are still "alive and kicking" 🇺🇦. Let that be your 'gift' to them this holiday season. Thank you. BTW, save 'flames' for the fireplace to keep warm. (DM if you must). Happy Holidays & Healthy, Happy New Year to all.

Andre, "Just something small for you over the holidays", seemed like a timely Christmas Gift. A little light reading during 24 hours of ice and snow storms with power outages and temps in the minus teens C° (-20's with winds gusts at 80kms) versus warm, balmy Mediterranean (or Cape Town) temperatures. A nice mini-vacation for Andrew, Ryan and the four young children, with the 'wee bairns' Fiona and Jamie Jnr becoming more relaxed since joining the family. A nice final restful, fun sail aboard MY Amira before the new owners Gabriel & Lucas take possession. What could go wrong? (By the way, something seems a bit 'off' with those two that I can't quite figure out). After a final night at sea, then: "The next morning they were roused out of their sleep by frantic shouts and the muffled sound of feet running on the deck above the cabin, followed by a loud explosion that shook 'MY Amira'." WHAT! Is this some long awaited retribution from original owner of MY Amira, 'Prince' Amir who raped and tried to kill Ryan, had his yacht taken away and given to Ryan, and now seeking revenge after years in a middle prison? Original want a mysterious Gabriel & Lucas? But Andre, a cliff hanger and only days before Christmas? Santa hasn't arrived in SA yet and is rumoured to carry a few lumps of coal in his sleigh (to leave where required 😉). All joking aside, all my Best Wishes to you (and yours) for a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and Happy New Year.

Lucy's definitely not just a pretty face (or body). More a combination of 'an iron fist in a velvet glove' + 'consigliere' + 'lioness' + enforcer' (e.g. Dale Hunter DC 'Caps', Udonis of Miami Heat or similar team player not to be 'messed' with).

🐂

LOL - They wanted to sample wines from different Med countries! I'm saving the Israeli and Greek ones for when CJ charters the boat to cruise the Santorini and the Agean. FYI - The next story and a couple of others coming up all have them drinking rose. Another wonderful chapter of the A-D clan's voyage asea. Full of wonderful moments but so hard to point out two in particular, although the 'twins' come to mind. (). With regard to 'naming rights' to an Australian animal, mammal or marsupial at the DC National Zoo in exchange for $40M, Brett might 'like' a kanga, but he could wind up with a dingo, echidna (resembling Brett's spiky blond hair) or platypus. Ooh. As for sour grapes about wine choices, Mateus does harken back to 'college' days with too fruity plonk. Virtually every 'Hill', 'Vale' and 'Valley' winery across Australia that produces Shiraz (Syrah) has tried its hand at retaining the signature qualities on the palate, of dark and blue fruits (plum, black and blueberry), dried fruit prominent along with notes of chocolate and tobacco, while dabbling with creating 'sparkling' and 'white' Shiraz. Such as but among 'regular' shiraz, no doubt similar to Liston, is a personal favourite: 2017 d'Arenberg 'The Dead Arm', which hits its drinkable peak in 2027. As much as I'd love to quaff the 'epilogue' of this fine book now, seeing as how you have graced us with it 'early', I'm going to hold off until the 23rd as a Christmas present to myself (since no WM HOG is going to 'glide' up my snow covered drive with saddle bags filled with OZ wine. Damn) But to you Carlos and everyone out in CJverse, and GA, Season's Greetings, Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, Happy Channukah and a Healthy, prosperous and Happy New Year. Ho, ho, ho. 🎅🏼

How about the Flo-Flo (Float On - Float Off) ships that actually transport trawlers, yachts and other ships onboard? That would work as well. As for having enough space for everyone who wants to go, Colin and Armand will know by now that fishing boats always seem to attract gulls and buoys. 😁 (Booing and groaning?)