Summerabbacat

@Wombat Bill we your readers demand an emoji for intrigued. It could so often be applied to your work and Wow just does not "cut it". Perhaps you could have Edward or better still Ed Wiener, "raise" this request with the administrators of the site.

I agree @ReaderPaul, the teaser for the next chapter opens up many fascinating possibilities I think, at least with respect to the appearance of another diva. One possible scenario. We have already seen Brett display a number of "diva like" characteristics on occasion. Will he assume a "bigger" role within this motley group of friends with a diva-esque display of epic proportions, challenging Edward's role as the premiere diva, motivating Edward to become an even bigger diva perhaps. Another possible scenario. Juanito you may recall showed a more than passing interest in Ed Wiener's gowns after she performed at the official party for the opening of the restaurant, particularly after Ed Wiener hinted at retirement and giving the gowns away. I wonder if Juanito may have a yet to be revealed desire to "frock up". His diminutive size, likely complexion and lack of body hair, would serve him well if he does decide to "dip his toes" in drag. Or the worst possible "diva scenario". The return appearance of the ghastly Prudence, hellbent on revenge at having been exposed as a lecherous rapist with the morals of an alley cat (no disrespect meant to alley cats). If i recall correctly she was Amazonian in stature, so could no doubt wreak havoc if it is her intent to do so. Another writer has me truly baffled; and, my crystal ball is still proving difficult to repair.

Mmmmmmm the realist (some would say pessimist) in me thinks that all went just a little too well. The change in employment was not unexpected, but the change in the relationship between Virginia and both Thomas and Jared (at least in Virginia's mind) to something more familiar, left me feeling a little uneasy, more so for Virginia. I hope for her sake she does not expect too much of both Thomas and Jared, or if she does that they treat it seriously, and not just placate her for the sake of doing so. “It’s only fitting, unless you’d like to call me Mum.” she replied and laughed nervously. This remark displays a facet of Virginia's character, which hitherto has only been hinted at on occasion, and then without much apparent conviction. A vulnerable Virginia, her mask of assuredness thrown aside. Does she have some degree of regret about never having experienced the birth and rearing of a child? Another of your "building" chapters @Wombat Bill. I was not surprised at Virginia's reaction to the revelation of Jared's bisexuality, or her ready acceptance of the relationship between Thomas and Jared. She is in essence a kind and loving woman who has empathy for others. These traits unfortunately do not appear to have "rubbed off" on Jonathan, he remains steadfastly focussed on "Team Jonathan" to the exclusion of all else.

Damn @Wombat Bill. @chris191070 prepared and published his comments while I was pfaffing around writing and editing mine. I will therefore, take this opportunity to express my surprise Virginia does not have a clue about Thomas and Jared. Clearly they are more discreet about their private lives than what they are in sharing those of Virginia and Jonathan.

I don’t believe it @Wombat Bill! More hilarity, in fact, the whole chapter was steeped in humour of the very best, (read British), kind. “How was the trip, Nia?” “Very educational and a little expensive.” “Yes, I can see all your shopping.” “Oh those, that’s just petty cash.” My laughter began here with a chuckle, and quickly built to gut-wrenching guffawing with an exchange worthy of Victor and Margaret Meldrew, “Well, it just may be on again, can you handle that?” “I’ll have to think about that.” “Well, while you’re thinking, give this to Smidmore and secure the house for me.” Your binge-watching of One Foot In The Grave has served you well. The conversation between Virginia and Jonathan was like verbal ping-pong, with one barb after another (mostly with little or no sting in their tail), backwards and forwards, Margaret and Victor. By no means anything infringing copyright; just original, brilliant, witty and very clever dialogue, delivered at a fast and furious pace. The finest of repartee, and not one fuck, motherfucker, bitch or ho to be found. How do you do it? I will be very interested to see the comments of @chris191070 and @ReaderPaul on this one @Wombat Bill

I think we may all be in for some surprises regarding the lives of the Prices' @ReaderPauland @chris191070. This is after all, one of the many charms of our author's story telling. I do not think Virginia is going to put up with any nonsense from Jonathan. She indicated she is happy to be a handbag when needed, otherwise she will continue to live as she always has, or at least has done since married to Jonathan. I hope Virginia thinks long and hard before resuming a relationship with Desmond, if that is what she ultimately chooses. He strikes me as no fool though, with a strength to resist her charms if she is not genuine. I am not convinced Jonathan's interest in politics is at all altruistic. Part of me thinks he may have become a little bored with random sex (or perhaps his libido is on the wane), and a political career may be his new "ego-stroker". I do not recall him having previously displayed any philanthropy, so methinks he may become bored very quickly, particularly when he realises he may not be able to buy his pre-selection and, may have to mix with people "beneath" him socially. Perhaps I judge him too harshly, he is after all a product of his upbringing. A most amusing chapter @Wombat Bill. My favourite line, and I think one of your best yet "Virginia was impressed with her salmon, and her only disappointment was, they did not stock her favourite champagne so she settled for a domestic variety". She is clueless and snobby, but honest about it, which one has to admire. You also snuck a word in the following paragraph which I don't recall ever having seen before, vignerons. Amusing and educational; you are spoiling us, and we appreciate it.

You were right @Wombat Bill. Donna's 'The Queen Is Back' is the perfect song choice to herald Ed Wiener's return from "drag wilderness"". I had a vision of her something akin to Gloria Swanson as Norma Desmond when she returns to the set in 'Sunset Boulevard', except in this case, the star was wanted for more than her ageing motor vehicle. The dialogue was witty and delivered with just the right amount of "acid". I could hear her delivering the lines and the crowd lapping it up (memories of drag shows from yesteryear came to the fore). Not content with reference to one fabulous diva, you gave us a second one, the majestic Dame from Tiger Bay, Ms Bassey herself (and as you know my male cat is named after her, he has a beautiful voice, although he is nowhere near as camp as she). 'Big Spender' was another very appropriate song choice too. I can think of none better, except perhaps for one of Abba's many masterpieces 'Money, Money, Money', however, it lacks the campness of 'Big Spender'. Not content with reference to two fabulous divas, I thought reference to a third fabulous diva was was "on the cards", when in negotiations with Prentice Brett remarked "Oh I was trying to be nice and butter you up before the rent negotiations start. Now you’ve got me all nervous and distraught..... ". When reading the comment in bold I heard Barbra in concert utter "now you've gone and got me all verklempt". I can imagine Brett delivering such a line with conviction. He is Edward in waiting. Similarly to what Clive James said about Australia providing the world with not one, but two Minogue sisters, you have provided us with not one, but two witty drag queens or drag queens in waiting. Absofuckinglutely fabulous. In honour of @ReaderPaulbeing American and the first one to comment on this chapter (and I loved his comments), you "hit this one out of the ballpark" young Wombat. I read this chapter upon finishing work for the day, and would just love to have done so with a few old friends and a bottle (or five) of champagne. Alas that was not to be, but you invoked the images, which is almost as enjoyable. A ✴️✴️✴️✴️✴️ effort.

@chris191070 we both misunderstood the previous chapter; Justin and Craig only bought the restaurant. That has been an education for me as I assumed if they were in the same premises you bought the lot. I agree with you and our fellow CWB groupie, @ReaderPaul, this "third course" of CWB is progressing at a leisurely and realistic pace. Although lacking cliffhangers, melodrama and aliens from outer-space, I find the story just as compelling and enjoyable without such events. Our beloved author @Wombat Bill really knows how to "spin a good yarn".

@ReaderPaulthe "movie" starring my feline's is somewhat misleading (no fault of our beloved author's) in that many of the photographs were taken in my former home (a house), and taken when I allowed Ava, Bassey, Kiki and the late Rupert, to go outside on the weekend during the day whilst I supervised them. They have not been outside, other than to sit on the terrace of my apartment from which they cannot leave, for 11 and 1/2 years. I stopped allowing them to go outside in my former home when I got to having 6 of them. The three youngest, Frida and Zelda, who are 11 year old sisters, and Missy who is 8, have never been outside, other than on the terrace. Do you have dogs @ReaderPaul? I cannot imagine a home without pets.

@Wombat BillI could not possibly compete with @chris191070's awesomeness now, I have neither the living space nor the financial wherewithal to do so, particularly as my eldest three face ongoing health challenges. If I am to be honest, I don't think I would have the patience in my current home either.

OMG @chris191070you have just rocketed to the top of the charts with a bullet performance. 13 cats, how wonderful. I had a baker's dozen myself at one time when I lived in a house, 5 were my "own" cats and 8 were foster cats for the rescue organisation I belong to. I now have 6, 5 of whom are 11+, 3 of whom are 14+, and 2 of whom have chronic kidney disease due to ageing. I adore them all, all have their own distinctive personality, a mystery to non-cat people, but something you are no doubt familiar with. I will finish my comments now otherwise I won't know when to stop (I have 500+ photos of my cats and am only too happy to talk about them endlessly, much like others talk about their children, which frankly bores me shitless). @Wombat Bill I have discovered the "real" reason for @chris191070 brevity. He does not have time to write a tome like I do. He has 13 cats, which I can attest to, would take a significant amount of his time to tend to: feeding, cleaning litter trays, shopping for food and other necessities, entertaining, supervising if any squabbles break out etc etc etc. Mundane things mostly, but to a cat person, performed with joy (well mostly).

I think you are correct @chris191070. Prentice indicated to Craig the business could be split into restaurant, bar and function room, and the small retail shop on the other side of the building. Justin also remarks they can invite their friends for a drink at the restaurant bar and a meal afterwards. And I also agree with you, a great chapter indeed. @Wombat Billanother very enjoyable, and also informative chapter. I was however, saddened and angry by the thought of what likely happened to the stray cats before the Chinese restaurant closed, primarily because such events are commonly known to occur. I am very pleased Craig continues to engage Justin in the "serious" side of the business. Justin continues to demonstrate he is more than just a "pretty face".

I thought as much @Wombat Bill. I was perhaps "stirring the pot" again, trouble making bitch that I am.

@Wombat Bill and @ReaderPaul I took little notice of the third image, captivated as I was by the sight of 'The Big Merino' (LOL). In passing I assumed the third image was a church of some description. Church, prison, mmmm no further comment. @ReaderPaul, my "disappointment" in you and @chris191070 was certainly expressed in jest; an invitation for one of you to question either @Wombat Bill or me (or is it I?). The other referenced 'Big Things' are similar to 'The Big Merino' in that they symbolise a plant or non-plant locally grown for human consumption, for which the town in question is, or was at the time the 'Big Thing' was built, renowned. 'The Big Banana' is at Coffs Harbour, 'The Big Prawn' is at Ballina and 'The Big Oyster' is at Taree, all of which are towns on the North Coast of NSW. I feel quite comfortable lampooning the 'Big Things' as I grew up in one of these towns (not Goulburn which is neither coastal nor north), although the 'Big Thing' was built in my hometown subsequent to my departure therefrom. I think Coffs Harbour is still strongly identified with 'The Big Banana', but the other two perhaps not so much with their respective 'Big Thing'. For me at least, Ballina is now known for being a town which did have one of the last surviving natural habitats for koalas in northern NSW, until it was almost wiped out before the bushfires, during the bushfires, and now has been after the bushfires because of indiscriminate building of homes for humans. It is a seaside town where many baby boomers have retired, and has thus grown significantly with apparently little regard for the environment and non-human animals. I would like to hold the fucking state Liberal/National Party coalition solely responsible for this, but I fear that would be quite dishonest of me to do so.

@Wombat Bill I am a little disappointed that neither @ReaderPaulor @chris191070enquired about 'The Big Merino' featured in the chapter image. I was so looking forward to either you or I regaling them with a history of 'The Big Merino', 'The Big Banana', 'The Big Oyster' and 'The Big Prawn', all "star attractions" in their own right. I am somewhat puzzled by Craig's obvious reluctance to consider offering any work to Snowy. Perhaps I don't need my crystal ball after all; there may be an attraction there on Craig's part which he is not willing to risk inflaming with close contact. Or perhaps I am just full of it and "noticing" things which do not even exist. Tristan's production sounds very ambitious. I wonder if there is some way it could be incorporated in its complete form, or part thereof, into one of Cynthia's fund-raising events. I apprehend at least some of the bored and wealthy doctors' wives who attend these functions may be subscribers to the Sydney Dance Company; and, may be of use in helping to obtain funding or bringing Tristan's production to a wider audience. They would also no doubt appreciate a good perv on an all male cast in tights (or am I projecting). I was intrigued by the chapter title as always. I could not have imagined the derivation of 'Is it a Lesbian Thing'. The fact that Charlie appears to have posed this question with all the innocent naïveté of a child, made it even funnier. @Wombat BillI liken An Appetite for More to the peeling of an onion or the pulling apart of a lettuce; the removal of the skin or the outer less edible leaves, revealing the heart which lies within.

Unapologetically so too, which for this reader is a big part of his charm. He may be a little gauche at times, but he is generally thoughtful, caring and kind-hearted, all admirable qualities, unlike pretentiousness. His ability to cut thought bullshit is very appealing. Thank you, thank you, thank you @Wombat Bill I was concerned I may be accused by someone of being racist or a philistine if I commented negatively on French food, which apart from ratatouille, I do not like at all. Heavy sauces with way too much butter, eggs and meat in the diet (none of which I eat of course). I am not fond of their cheeses or wines either, the former are too salty and the latter inferior to what we produce in Australia. And don't get me started on the nonsense of their ownership of the name "champagne". Puhlease. Italian food however, is a completely different kettle of fish. Lots of options for vegetarians and a reliance on quality produce. Truly magnifico, delizioso.

A very amusing chapter. Justin is in fine form, his comments and questions the perfect antidote to the pretentiousness of the staff and their service at Poppy's. Apart from the reference to the grotesque foie gras (achieved via horrendous cruelty to the duck), I had a hearty laugh at Justin's comments with regard to some of the other dishes, especially the ratatouille. Is there trouble ahead for Craig and Justin in their personal life though? Has our author foreshadowed this with Craig's comments regarding Snowy's physique and Justin's muted response? My crystal ball is currently in for repairs, so we shall have to wait for our beloved author to reveal all (or nothing as the case may be). @Wombat Billa light hearted chapter with the introduction of another new character, Charlie, whom I think may be set to play a big part in the boys lives. Whilst the food held no appeal (apart from the ratatouille), the wonderful display of sassiness from Justin kept me giggling like a schoolgirl to the end.

I am sure he will have something unique to bring to the "family". Early signs are he is a humble man who may benefit financially and emotionally from having a close knit "family" to encourage and support him.

A delightful and heart-warming chapter. Craig and Justin are at long last a great team professionally, with an ethical attitude towards their employees, viewing them as assets to help the business grow, not expendable commodities to use and abuse at their whim. Like @chris191070 I too foresee the purchase of the Prentice restaurant business as the new base for CWB. I only hope, and I believe my hope will be fulfilled, the boys retain the existing employees and treat them with the same care and respect as they do their current "family member" employees. It will be hard work for the boys, but they seem to relish the opportunities. This reader looks forward to a triumphal march by the boys when the new venture is a resounding success. It appears with encouragement from "mother" Edward, Juanito has realised that sex-work, whilst lucrative now, may not have the same long-term prospects as more "conventional" employment. I am looking forward to the integration of Snowy into the "family" if that is the intention of our beloved author. @Wombat BillI enjoyed this chapter immensely. There were no startling revelations or dramatic turn of events, all was quite mundane really; and yet, with clever writing you made the read as entertaining and compelling as always. I don't know how you do it, but you just keep on doing it. I feel Craig has now truly realised what an asset Justin is to the business, and is treating him accordingly. He has regained my respect and admiration after having lost it somewhat for some time now. I am so pleased it appears the business will expand with the purchase of the Prentice restaurant. It will please this reader no end if that comes to fruition; a business being purchased by residents with a social ethos, rather than non-resident corporate vultures who care nought for their employees or their other obligations as a business e.g. paying tax and observing environmental laws. 😍😍😍

@Wombat BillI was only referring to Labor PM's and the Labor Premier of our own fair state. We have previously referenced the Liberal PM in Second Course who was also widely believed to be gay. Methinks the lads are too polite to call me out, or perhaps agree with me, or perhaps rolled their eyes like my cats frequently do (with the unspoken "OMG she's on about shit again").

WARNING WARNING WARNING CWB groupies - the "real" Summerabbacat has returned from a short break and he will not be silenced. He has more nonsense than ever to sprout. I read this chapter late at night when my eyesight is mediocre at best. I saw the wisteria-covered pergola and immediately had a “Maria moment”. I heard the crystalline voice of Julie Andrews and the somewhat lesser voice of the recently departed, Christopher Plummer, whispering Edelweiss. Completely unsuitable vision of course for the chapter which was about to unfold before me. @Wombat Bill you had me fooled into thinking Jonathan was becoming something more than the shallow, self-centred, entitled prick I initially thought him to be. You wrote of a kinder, more thoughtful and engaging man at the end of the Second Course. I should have known better; that man was the work of the manipulative, shrewd businessman Jonathan has for so long been. He is unchanged; he is the shallow, self-centred and entitled prick I first thought him to be. He is I venture the product of his upbringing, as much as the dutiful, trophy-wife, or in this case trophy-beard, Virginia, is the product of her's. I am more disappointed in her for agreeing to his deception than I am in him. I believe she has many redeeming qualities, but ultimately she is not prepared to give up her privileged lifestyle for the sake of authenticity (and I won't apologise for behaving like a self-righteous idealist). I certainly don’t expect Jonathan should come out as gay when he enters politics, but I had foolishly hoped he may live his life honestly without parading Virginia as his loving wife, which is what I expect he will do. Alas it appears he will continue to live his life as he has always done, as will Virginia no doubt. He certainly would not be the first Labor politician to live like this. In fact, it is widely rumoured we in Australia have had at least two Prime Ministers and one state Premier in the last 30 years, who were closeted members of the GLBTQ community. A well written chapter once again @Wombat Bill. I particularly liked “I have long admired Malcolm’s ideals of social reform and environment protection, but he never had a chance in a party of climate deniers, religious bigots and old fossils with misogynistic tendencies and a belief in the long discredited theory that trickledown economics actually work.” Apart from the economic reference, I had to check this was not a comment I had ever made to you regarding the Liberal Party, particularly since the biblical brethren took a stranglehold on the leadership. Please note the only reason I would not have made the economic reference is that, unlike many Australians, the state of the economy is not something I ever give much consideration when assessing candidates for voting. I guess I am fortunate not to have to worry too much about the state of the economy; that I have the "luxury" of considering other issues such as the environment, climate change, worker's rights and my greatest concern of all, animal rights, as being more important. Then again, it is not essential i have a luxury car (I have never had a car and don't drive), a new iPhone, iPad and tablet every year, a 72" TV in every room of my 5 bedroom, 6 and 1/2 bathroom home, Alexa or Google Home to turn on my lights and change the CD for me (if they could clean the cat litter trays and wash the kitchen floor after the cats have eaten I might consider it), a cleaning person to clean my home, up-to-date fashions and at least three rental properties to make me happy and fulfilled. Please note this comment is not meant to diss those who live in genuine poverty or who are homeless; it is meant to diss the aspirational Liberal voters with the Hillsong greed-is-good ethos. The bitch has finished and is expecting flak.

My fellow CWB groupies have said it all. For once I am at a loss for words (I hear you all sigh with great relief; there is a first time for everything).

Brendan's death has not occurred yet @ReaderPaul. @Wombat Bill prefaced this chapter with the header 'Three Months Earlier'. The Second Course segues into this chapter if my memory serves me correctly.

The opening chapter to the third instalment, simply and beautifully written, with heartfelt emotions to the fore, but not so melodramatic it becomes a soap opera. Exceptionally well done AGAIN @Wombat Bill. Now for my "contentious", perhaps unreasonable to some, comment. How old is Jared, 12? "If you loved me, you would tell me, so I don’t think I love you anymore. I don’t need a brother that keeps secrets from me.” Oh puhlease, give me a break! I thought we had seen the last of Jared, the jealous pouting brat, but seemingly not. I just hope when he learns of the circumstances of his conception he has the decency to feel like a complete heel. If not, I fear he may have inherited some very unattractive character traits from his biological father. @Wombat Billno religious overtone intended, but you bless us again with your literary gifts. With only one chapter I am already feeling nourished and enriched, and my Appetite for More verging on gluttony. Like Andrea True, I must have "More, More, More".

After the havoc Brendan wreaked on his family I did not expect to be moved by his death, but @Wombat Bill has the knack of challenging his readers and eliciting emotions which one would not have predicted. The minimalist reporting of Brendan's death a reflection perhaps of the minimal happiness he experienced and brought to others. His suicide an act of remorse, cowardice or that of a desperately unhappy man? He was a very troubled man for certain, but how much of that was the result of his own rape at the hands of a priest, and the appalling example set by his vile parents. This reader cannot help but think that for all his despicable treatment of others, Brendan's life was a tragedy waiting to happen. Although a moot point with his death, this reader wonders if he could have been helped if he had been removed from the unhealthy family environment, the evil environment of the religious institution in which he was educated and received professional help.