Mancunian

Max is far wiser than some would give him credit for, Harry and the boys did an excellent job. Max's personal fire-cracker? are you giving spoilers?

Missy is one of my favourite characters, I think she is happy for Harry and enjoys getting to know more humans that she can claim. You are right about Benjamin and Joseph, I will not comment further so that you can get to know them in GJ&C. Many people agree with you about fireworks, but some enjoy them. I can take or leave them, where I live people look for excuses to use them in any celebration and are a constant feature.

Good morning, afternoon, evening to all. I hope you are all ready for Christmas.

Hello and good morning Nick. I hope the flirty frog is patient, my buffer of chapters is almost depleted and I need to get the buffer replaced, quickly.

The tears are a mixed blend of sad and happy tears. Sad that The Boot has come to an end (or has it? 😉) and happy that The Old Shoe Factory and supported non-profit businesses have opened their doors. I wonder what stories they will be able to tell. Max's recognition is hard-earned and well-deserved, all businesses that receive that recognition must provide high-quality value for money services and honour an inclusivity and diversity policy. These are real requirements demanded by all local councils in Greater Manchester. Thank you for commenting throughout the story, it is appreciated.

Psst, new chapter posted.

Stacy woke up full of energy and already making plans in his mind. Being someone who always liked to be organised, he listed everything in order of priority. First on the list, was organising a family outing to the Fallowfield Fireworks display at Platt Fields Park. He didn't have much time as it was the next day. Max was eating breakfast while Stacy prepared his packed lunch. “Max, honey. Do you remember when we promised to take the boys to the fireworks display this year?” “Yes, I do

Max's comment was inspired by an actual housing project here in Manchester some years ago, I don't why it hasn't been repeated. A local Housing Association and a local shelter went into a temporary partnership to renovate a derelict street. All of the homeless people who took part in the project were given preferential treatment by the Housing Association and housed either in that street or in other suitable accommodation and was a success. Joe would be one of the people to benefit in these circumstances. As you rightly point out the benefits are more than financial for both the individuals involved and the community. I'm sure you will come up with a couple of suitable song titles, I think you have taken this on as a challenge. Thank you for your thoughtful comments.

Christmas is a time of joy and celebration for many, but then there is the other side of the coin where it doesn't exist. This is a story of that side of the coin and one man's mission to do something about it after his own childhood experience. I dare you to read it and not be moved to tears. A recommended five-star read if ever there was one.

Damn, I spent more time wiping away tears than I did reading. This is one of those sad stories that is also very heart-lifting at the same time. Writing a story that can do that is an achievement. But the bigger and better achievement is that stories like this inspire others to do good and think of those less fortunate. I have heard of similar ideas here in the UK which appear to be local initiatives. I support and contribute to, a charity known as Cash 4 Kids, a charity supported by many local radio stations in The UK. Every year they promote Mission Christmas, where they accept cash or new unwrapped gifts suitable for children from birth to teens. Donated cash is used to purchase a variety of gifts and added to the donated gifts, which are then distributed to families in need and nominated by Social Services and other organisations. Each branch and local radio station covers their local area where they have the local knowledge. Thank you @Bill W for a well-written beautiful story.

They did observe many of the traditions of Christmas entertainment, but they also put their own stamp on Christmas in the show. Miss Daisy Chain and The Choirboys will be heard of again, one day, lol. I'm happy you enjoyed the show it was a pleasure to write.

Ian is a caring and thoughtful young man, much like his partner Kevin, neither of them will forget or be ashamed of their brush with being homeless and their humble beginnings. It is a trait that will stand them in good stead in the future. The trolley dash was a fun way for the supermarket to provide for several charities and provide them with what they want and need to help them in their goals, which is better than guessing and getting it wrong. I do not doubt that the supermarket would also be using it as a marketing ploy, as many do.

I love how you came up with your profile name, it makes a lot of sense and suits you. I like your taste in music, although I do occasionally like to listen to classical music, and like you I have zero interest in heavy metal or rap.

Ha ha, no chance, I'm tea-total, lol.

Thanks B, it's always fun. This year I'm leaving the pre-Christmas running around picking up groceries to a couple of the other's, but I'll still be in the thick of it on Christmas Day.

The old warehouse has a lot of possibilities and can help do a lot of good. If The Boot has to close this could be a great opportunity for continuing its ethos. I love the musical references to Andy and Christian's budding relationship, they are encouraging and very apt.

I'll be busy helping to cook and serve Christmas dinner, we're hoping Santa drops in again this year. He's always popular with the guests.

Most people tend to think that domestic violence only takes place in heterosexual relationships and that the perpetrator is always the man. The facts disprove this as the woman is the perpetrator is the woman in about 10% of cases in heterosexual relationships. It is the case that domestic violence also happens in gay and lesbian relationships and are often ignored. Organisations have now accepted these facts and have taken, or are taking, steps to recognise this and extend their services. Finally the barrier has been lowered between Andy and Christian, lets hope for a happy ending. 🤞

Good morning Nick. Are you ready for Christmas yet?

That means I'm late about 50% of the time, lol.

I understand what you are saying about the church, but sometimes brutal decisions have to be made by every organisation. I also understand what you are saying about Andy and Christian, but Christian is still fragile in some ways. I fear that too strong a push would send him running to the hills. Steve is right, baby steps are a better approach.

Andy's actions are brave, although a little foolhardy. My guess is he would have been better prepared if he hadn't had a drink. Mmm, will these events make a difference between Andy and John/Christian? Maybe, or maybe not, we will have to wait and see.

Careful, I don't want your other half to think I'm competition, make sure he knows you love us differently.

Are you two trying to get me to post early? I'll tell you what if I get five more requests, I'll post chapter 11 today. Is that fair? Then I might post chapter 12 on Saturday if everyone wants me too.

Has somebody been raiding Santa's wardrobe, lol?