Mancunian

Missy is a star in her own right. She is a big softy who loves Harry and seems to like adopting humans. As soft as she is I think she would stand her ground and be ferocious if anyone threatened any of her humans, especially Harry. I'm hoping that Michael doesn't feeo overwhelmed when he discovers the connection between Max and Stacy and his new employers. 🤞 Thank you for the continued sport my friend.

Michael has an opportunity to learn and develop in a job that could be a good fallback if his dreams of a stage career don't materialise. With the opportunities available it is now up to him to make something of it. Experts in pyrotechnics can create some amazing displays, I hope our upcoming display will be one of those.

It certainly can feel like it's a small world at times, and this could have been one of the reasons Michael got the job. If you like fireworks, don't miss the next chapter.

I have asked in the chapter notes when the readers think the next chapter should be published.

Thank you for commenting @JohnnyC. Things are looking good for Charlie and Michael, I'm proud of them for recognising their good fortune and are already giving back, so to speak. Working in a pawn shop is fun and interesting as you never know what is going to come in through the door from one day to the next. I worked in pawn shops with my dad and enjoyed it. As a qualified and experienced pawnbroker, I now work as a consultant to other pawnbrokers. Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year to you.

Yes, you. But I'll forgive you, just this once.

Banning firecrackers for personal use is a good thing and probably why your cats are less bothered by other fireworks. Unfortunately in some parts we have idiots throwing them al most anywhere causing problems.

The occasional spoiler won't hurt, just don't give them too many.

Many students fund their education this way, it is hard work but very rewarding in many ways.

Nope, definitely not missed.

GJ&C is a story with intrigue where we learn more about other characters from The Boot World, including Benjamin and Joseph's story. I'm an advocate of banning fireworks unless they are used in professional displays.

No, you haven't missed anything, @raven1 is teasing you.

Michael will do his best at his new job, nobody can ask for more than that. The surprise windfall, although small, will help in many ways. I agree, that professional fireworks displays can be enjoyable. It is irresponsible idiots who spoil the fun and cause problems, many pets are caused unnecessary distress because of them. Thank you for commenting.

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.

Chapter 11 has now been posted. It's a more up-beat chapter so you should save some money on tissues, lol.

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.