Anton_Cloche

Hi Cal: I'm playing 'catch up' on The Home and so far its coming along well. A hiccup or two along with way, but nothing to comment on. But now... a little lengthy comment, please bear with me. In this chapter Tony talks about lack of central heating and the reasons behind it: "The house had one disadvantage, there wasn’t any central heating. I remember asking Pa, and he said to install it, they would have to destroy some of the walls. I could understand that the outside walls were thick. You could see that at the window sills. One thing that helped, the house was well insulated." 🔨 (Full disclosure, my great & great-great grandfather were engineers, architects, constructors as far back as 1800's) As mentioned in some previous chapters, starting with the first), this Home - in effect a design extension of the Kings 1800 villa in Italy, (for obvious reasons being commissioned by the king for his son) - would have been built to standards of that era which for security reasons more than comfort would have had substantial exterior walls, well over a foot in thickness and in many cases a metre (3.2 feet) thick. This 'home' in America standard 'non-fortified' home would be about 12 - 18 inches exterior walls. Interior walls (not load bearing) would have been a version of lathe and plaster (L&P is literally 1/4" x 1" wood slats covered in plaster) but little space for running internal services such as water pipes, electrical, let alone heating ducts. Although his Pa did run some electrical (knob & wire at the time), and there is plumbing. In fact, even that small space between L&P interior walls would allow for chases (tubes / spaces) to run updated wiring, water and plumbing lines. As for heating, hot water radiators (water fed from basement boilers) can and often are installed without destroying walls. Many of my grandfathers 'antique homes' have been upfitted with radiant underfloor heating. Given what's in the safe including paper money, jewels, coins (American and European gold coins from the king would be worth 'a King's ransom' today, pun intended), plus whatever else Tony has yet to discover, should have give him sufficient resources to upgrade the home/villa and outbuildings. I suspect the more he digs (literally), the more he'll find.💰💰👑 Enough building (homes and money) history for Chapter 9. Small comments to follow other chapters, or not. Stay safe, Mask Up, Get the Jab 💉 . Cal you're more than eligible now.! Tony B

Calvin, I'm finding this story more and more interesting as we go along for the ride. Marlene thinks she is La principessa abita in un castello, and she's looking for the crown jewels or at least the family jewels. But her 'entitled' behavior reminds me of the saying, 'casting pearls before swine'. (and I'm only repeating them 2nd or 3rd hand, having heard them from Aunt, Uncles and older relatives! ) As for 'family' members stealing from parents and grandparents, I too have had my fill of them. My mother suffered from Parkinsons and later Alzheimers. As Mom's health declined over 5 years, she mostly stayed at home with Dad and care-givers (thanks to Dad's insurance). Her first granddaughter would spend a week or two each summer and that's when things began to disappear. Antique Silver Dollar collections MY grandmother gave to her only child yearly for 50 years. Jewelery and anything else Pat could get her hands on and hide in a bag. On the day of my mother's funeral she stayed behind to look after her 1-year son. We discovered months later, when my Dad died, that Pat's father (my 'brother', a scheming banker) found some of the stolen items, in her closets. He never returned anything, nor apologized, other than saying she had 'a problem' since a teenager (Klepto). Another saying comes to mind: 'You can your nose, but you can't pick your family'. Let's hope that Marlene doesn't discover the secrets of the house, that Pa and Nonna left to Antonio. That Tony finds someone to help him restore the Model T to running condition. (I'd prefer a '29 Model A roadster with rumble seat myself). What else is hidden is Villa Carignano? Could 'Princess' Marlene stumble into a hidden well or a secret dungeon? If she falls in a well Lassie isnt around to bark. Hmmm Tony (Anton)

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Ah yes, well in the past (or so we're told) when new regimes take over, much of history is either destroyed (unless hidden away) and the former historians didn't do so well, especially if they didn't re-write history. And as we know all to well, 'Those who ignore history, are doomed to repeat it' Case in point, current New Zealand Prime Minister being called 'Chamberlain' for literally asking Australian government to "Appease China rather than oppose their (Chinese) expansionism into Australia". But engineers (like yourself) well, they get to remake things, make new ones, that usually stand the test of time. That's why parents encourage their kids to be doctors, dentists, engineers, and MAYBE lawyers (although after the last four years, few kids are going to be named after lawyers, See how I dodged 'certain net nannies' by not mentioning names |). Parents might encourage kids to become teachers (in general), but not Historians? And now on to the next chapter. Are there hidden 'royal jewels' in the carriage house? Is the signet ring key to ... fortune? Castles? Kingdoms (King Ralph )? Or just a fancy title that along with a few bucks will buy a coffee? Or maybe, just maybe, the current descendant / heir will become a case worker looking out for deserving children (too formulaic)? Tony C

Interesting start of 'The Home', the story of an illegitimate son of fictional King of ? who's 'not recognised' son (as a result of a dalliance) is to banished at the Queen's 'request', not just to a neighbouring European country where his existence could come back to haunt the royals, but to that upstart country America, never to be heard from again. Historical note - last real Holy Roman (Italy) Emperor in 1800, Francis II, dissolved Empire in 1806 , a de facto abdication, to become Emperor Franz I of Austria. He turned Rome over to Napoleon I, who eventually lost his head . Francis II had 12 legitimate offspring. Like many European Kings of that era (all related as cousins, more than 'kissing), he's allegedly had 'son' who survived but was banished to America. So, some basis in truth. Oooooooh. And now, the story gets interesting?

Calvin: All Good Things come to an end, unfortunately even the Chronicles of Lucinius. This very well written story gives hope that when Lucinius passed, that he left instructions for his Freedmen and boys to remain at the villa and free. Unfortunately the real history of Rome tells a different tale. We can only hope that his brother (and Senator) Duccius would do the right thing, and if not him, then his son and successor Junius who spent much of his childhood at the Villa, in the company of other boys who were not treated as slaves and property. Worst case scenario, whoever has to decide must face both Apollo and the Mouth of Truth (Roman Holiday). Hopefully he (it would have been a 'he') does not 'come up short' in handling the estate. Looking forward to the next story Cal. Tony B

Hello Cal:Hope you're well. It took me a little while to get into this story. Not that I don't like history , but too much current history being made got me sidetracked a bit. This is a very good story about what life could have been in Roman times. If only some papyrus scrolls, like those young Lucinius uses to chronicle his life,, survived to this day. We know of some of the inventions (water diversion via aquaducts) the Roman's used. Lucinius, with all of his creativeness, is an early version of another famed inventor from Italy, Da Vinci . Lucinius, with help from his mother and two grandfathers, is proving how narrow-minded his 'father' is . (I suspect he is not his father's son, but only Apollo knows of his mother's prayers). At least his brother Duccius , when he succeeds his father as senator, will remember what Lucinius has shown him, perhaps making life for some slaves better. Looking forward to more of this story. Stay safe. Tony C

I've been following Camp Refuge since the first story. It's name says it all, it's about saving people, whether they know they need saving or not. Now Avery has unwittingly hurt they very person he thought he was helping, by trading his own ADHD drugs for a couple of Oxy for Lee. Unfortunately, the Oxy (may have been cut with Fent) and Avery is on death's door. And Lee, thinking he's killed Avery, is running away - back to the streets. Harlen needs to save Lee. Come on Wayne, save these young boys.

Even as a first draft, this story lays out what brought Kyle to St. Clement, and how at just 17 he's able to exit MD/the U.S. and gain entrance to another country. Short flight time suggests either Canada or possibly EU. How Kyle goes forward? We'll wait and see. BTW, from my Editorial POV , there's a few minor Sp errors and two grammarical ones (that I may address via DM). but so far, looking good DK.

'All good things must come to an end'. Or so the saying goes. While I'm sad to see this story end, it seems as though some of the children have decided to carry it and Brad's vision forward. At least we're brought up to date on how things have improved over 10 years for the children who arrived at Sanctuary and found a 'safe haven'. Some have taken what they've learned and use it to help others. ( Carlos and Maria with Hacienda del Paz in Mexico ). Sadly and unfortunately, some did not find what they really needed the most at Sanctuary and had to 'settle' for less. For children like 8-year old Pat who really need the love only a father (even an adoptive one) can give, and who demonstrated that to Brad in words and deeds on many occasions, he kept being rejected by Brad (no matter how often Brad explained to Pat, and justified to himself that he could not 'chose' a favorite, even if Pat was the first child Brad rescued). In the end, Pat waited 10 long years in quiet desperation (no matter how well he hid it), until he was an 'adult' in the eyes of the court (Brad's father) and changed his last name to Brad's of 'Williams'. Brad also missed the boat in his relationship with Tony . (again Brad's justification seemed acceptable but still...). What's next? Tony C

With all the HAWT men rafting down the 'Hooch', I'm surprised Nash didn't get a case of 'The Vapors', Lord-ee. Plus he was the 'mascot'. As for Todd, between 'Hooch', Julips, and whatever other recreational libations are at hand, I see Todd heading for a fall. But will the others be there to rescue him and set him on the right path? Griffith is going to educate Nash about the 'Ramblin Wreck from Georgia Tech'. The term originally referred to 'mechanized transport' vehicles (would barely qualify as trucks or cars), cobbled together by GT engineers in early 1910-30s and used on Central America Projects as support vehicles. It later referred to the 1914 Model T, that became a 'mascot'. Not to 'sully' any reputations, but the term was (and still is) used to refer to the many well put together young men of GT, using their 'talents' on 'others' (female AND male) on and off campus, and elsewhere, where getting 'wrecked' holds special meaning.

Calvin, lo has vuelto a hacer. ¡Un gran capítulo! Con la adición de Carlos y los otros niños mexicanos / latinos Brad definitivamente va a necesitar la lección de español. Tal vez el detective Diaz le ayude. ¡Sigue escribiendo bien! (okay, I cheated with the translation since I don't speak Spanish, except to order in a restaurant overseas. Here's the English version. ): Calvin, you have done it again. A great chapter! With the addition of Carlos and the other Mexican / Latino children Brad is definitely going to need Spanish (and other language) lessons. Perhaps detective Ruiz will help? Keep up the good writing!

This chapter brought tears to my eyes. The loving, caring acceptance shown by all the guys to Pietro allowed him to deal with all the pain and guilt he was carrying from being a young teen terrified of the feelings he had for other boys. A fear so intense, that had he not been able to finally share his feelings his story might have ended in tragedy. Sam's reaction to Pietro, his empathy in offering to be both a friend and maybe a boyfriend , a first for both boys, showed just how much Sam has learned from his relationship with Ethan and Arik, much to their surprise. A touching coming of age chapter.

WTH? FSELL this chapter was going great, leading us along, families all in town for Lucas and Hailey's wedding. The ceremony getting to the "I do's" and then ... the wheels fell off the bus? No segue? I too had to go back and re-re-read the chapter. I thought you'd had a major FAIL when posting, maybe too many JD's and become a 'Clumsy Ninja' writer! But it worked out in the end (not a pun referencing Jamie and Ben, or did I? ). I'm getting close to the end of 'Jamie - The Journey Begins', but the title suggests hints, foreshadows, at least two more? 'Jamie & Ben - The Journey Continues' and 'Jamie & Ben - Journies with Children'? Hey?

Great chapter. Jamie finally (?) decides where his career future lies with Ben , in the States. Of course by the time they retire after say 25 years as firefighter & EMT they'll only be 55 & 53 respectively. Young enough to retire to OZ (and still work p/t).

Liked the chapter as more things seems to be falling into place, or at least they're heading that way. And then, Brad gets another premonition. I know all too well about premonitions. Sometimes they're good, or at least neutral. Other times they can be bad. Often, they're like a loose thread you keep pulling on. It would seem, even though Tony hasn't 'set in stone' the 'Trust', that initial finances are in good shape, and the seized funds of the evil men (penance) are adding to the surplus. Do what does Tony's visit to review finances portend? A departure? An arrival? Hopefully not a calamity...

Great chapter and a wonderful trip to the zoo. The evolution of Sanctuary shows that Brad isn't monkeying around with his plans for the children and youths. He's bearing down, showing people how children otter be treated, and won't accept any lion. All puns aside, I look forward to more chapters.

I really hope the HVAC (vents, fans and exhausts) in the Cocoons can handle the results of the 'traditional' Irish dinner. Between the boiled cabbage and potatoes, plus the corned beef there will be lots a noises and smells from the pods.

A very good, derailed and revealing chapter Carlos. Ritch(ie) didn't wash out in first month, largely due to his support network of home, family and friends, and I'm sure it will continue, as he adds Will 'Bender' to the list, having been accepted by 'Cap' and César. (I can see 'Bender' being his 'call sign. Ritch's - perhaps he'll reach back and use his late father's call sign, OR, perhaps for fun 'Wingnut'?) As for your, "...not sure if he'll survive 4 years yet." No you don't. I can just hear the mental cogs squeaking (not implying anything other than writer's fatigue. Yeah, that what I meant). No flight / training incidents! No 'down range' oops! Vail ski vacay accidents limited to sprains and bruises, and hurt egos, NO compound anything! (maybe Blue Balls, heh heh). Looking forward to Jan 15th posting. Ps. Some of DoD's Obesity funding should be used for ALL 'Commanders'. Tony B.

Wow! Another great chapter . I had to go back and reread to double-check if I missed some important info. Until Christine's grand tour I'd only pictured four floors, former warehouse and lofts, hence the higher than normal height allowing for creation of A, B and C as mezzanines to 2nd floor as if by magic. (not really, just a clever use of 'headspace'). But now Brad speaks of 11 floors? If that's that case, then there had to be a previous commercial elevator (lift) at least 8' x 8' or larger. Even in 'century old / 1900 era' buildings, that was required. Those building codes required a concrete (block) 'shaft' that when old buildings are retrofitted today, new shaft 'liners' are installed to fit current 'cars' (what elevator 'cabs' are called). Brad's (and Tony's) 'To Do' lists are expanding as Sanctuary does.

Sorry for being 2 years late to the party (so to speak). The food and beverages are gone, but 'Jamie' remains.

No no no no! Sean is dead years ago in a car accident with Jamie. Jamie can't be seeing Sean. That doesn't happen unless he's on the door step to... NO! Save them both!

Small town America of your / our youth, one of courtesies, common sense has vanished as I watch The Capitol being breached. I look forward to more of The Farm, autobiographical or not, and when you decide to wrap this 1st Book, (in another 10+ chapters), that there will be a smooth transition to Book 2. The transfer of ownership / management of The Farm to Sam as the appointed 'heir'.

Noooo . Now Zeke knows Tyler wasn't imagining 'everything', but who else could know Zeke's home number? A rejected former boyfriend using a scrambler to alter his voice? Not likely the person who killed Tyler's family because he'd call Tyler by name. OR, could it be Zeke and Dr. Corey's 'boss' who they don't like, don't trust, and who Zeke fears would "wipe his memory"? Whaaat?? PLEASE post next chapter ASAP

Another interesting chapter. Almost like a guided tour of best parts of Brussels, Paris and Oxford thrown together. Yonatan and Matan's neatly coordinated homes may be heading for a change if Jan's need to be with Tyrese increases, which it will.