Bill W

Chapter 35 – Heading Toward the Finish Line When we arrived home after going out for supper with my parents, my phone rang. When I looked to see who was calling, I was surprised to see Jaxon’s name, so I answered it immediately and put it on speaker so Devin could hear. “Hey, man, what’s up?” “What’s up is that you’d better come to our house for a barbeque tomorrow night. You can go back to Fort Collins on Sunday instead of tomorrow, because Rory and Jaxon are looking forward t

Connection in story writing is a crucial, multidimensional concept that elevates narrative from a simple sequence of events to an engaging, memorable experience. It involves establishing relationships between characters, linking thematic threads, and creating an emotional bridge between the writer and the reader. The Core of Reader Engagement: Emotional Connection Empathy as the Driver: Humans are wired for empathy, and emotional connection is often the most critical element in a story. A story without it can feel bland or uninteresting. Relatability: Readers connect with characters who feel real—those who are flawed, vulnerable, and face relatable challenges. The "Aha" Moment: Good stories create suspense and mystery, allowing readers to connect the dots themselves, which leads to a satisfying, intellectually stimulating experience. Sensory Details: Using sensory-rich descriptions (sounds, smells, textures) brings readers into the scene, triggering their own memories and creating a shared experience. Crafting a Strong Narrative: Internal Connection Moving Beyond Linearity: A great story is not just A-to-B-to-C. It is a "connection game" where the writer connects themes, plot points, and character motivations. Symbolic Echoes: Non-causal connections (e.g., having a character watch a play that mirrors their internal struggle) can serve as a shortcut for meaning, allowing for a more nuanced, multi-layered story. Character Relationships: Populating a world with varied, complex relationships—romantic, platonic, or antagonistic—allows for deeper character development and reveals different facets of their personality. The Writer-Reader Bond: Authenticity Vulnerability and Trust: Sharing personal, honest experiences (even in fiction) creates trust. Readers connect more with a writer who is willing to show their own or their characters' weaknesses and failures. The "Human" Element: Writing is a way to bridge the gap between minds, providing a "tiny brain transplant" that feels like a genuine, deep connection in a modern world where they can be hard to find. Benefits for the Writer: Vulnerability and Trust: Sharing personal, honest experiences (even in fiction) creates trust. Readers connect more with a writer who is willing to show their own or their characters' weaknesses and failures. The "Human" Element: Writing is a way to bridge the gap between minds, providing a "tiny brain transplant" that feels like a genuine, deep connection in a modern world where they can be hard to find. Types of Connections in Stories: Type of Connection Purpose How it is achieved Character-to-Reader To make the reader care. Vulnerability, relatability, shared emotions. Character-to-Character To create tension & depth. Varied relationships, dialogue, shared goals. Plot-to-Theme To make the story meaningful. Symbolism, motif, non-linear threads. Writer-to-Reader To build trust & loyalty. Authenticity, vulnerability, sensory detail. By focusing on these connections, a writer can transform a mere, cold account of events into a compelling story that lingers in the reader's mind.

"Connection" originates from the Latin Connexiōnem, (a binding or joining together), the nominative form being connexio. It derives from conectere, meaning "to fasten together", It combines con- ("together") with nectere ("to bind"), which shares a Proto-Indo-European root, ned-, with the English words "knot" and "knit". The spelling shifted from connexion to connection in the 18th century. According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the earliest known use of the noun connection (also spelled connexion) is in the early 1600s. The OED cites usage from 1609 in the Holie Bible faithfully translated into English (Douay–Rheims Bible). While "connection" is more common in modern American English, the variant spelling connexion was used in English as far back as the early 18th century and was considered the original form. The verb connect appeared earlier, with evidence from 1537, and the adjective connecting is recorded from 1700.

Desire is the foundational engine of story writing, acting as the promary driver for plot development, character, and reader engagement. It transforms a character from a passive observer into an active, relatable agent by defining what they want and why they are willing to take risks to get it. Without a clear desire, plots stall, and characters appear uninteresting or passive. Drives Plot and Action: The Engine of Narrative: Desire is what forces a character to take action, creating a "throughline of momentum". It converts static situations into dynamic, "do-or-die" quests. Defines the Plot: The protagonist’s, and often the antagonist’s, desire determines the direction and stakes of the story. Structural Necessity: A well-constructed story is built on a "range of hills" where desire increases steadily, leading to a climax where that desire is either satisfied or lost. Creates Character Depth and Empathy: Relatability: Readers connect with characters who want something, as it mirrors the human experience of striving for goals. Reveals Character: A character's desires, especially those that conflict, show who they really are and what they value. Facilitates Transformation: When a character is forced to confront obstacles in pursuit of their desire, they are forced to change, adapt, and grow. Generates Tension and Stakes: The "Why" and "What": Establishing a "Heart's Desire" in the first few pages tells the reader what the story is about and why they should care. High Stakes: The more a character risks for their desire, the greater the emotional investment of the audience. "Ripping it Away": A common, effective technique is to establish a character's desire and immediately "rip it from them," creating the necessary tension to propel the plot. Distinguishes Between "Want" and "Need": Desire (Want): Often an external, concrete goal (e.g., win the race, solve the mystery). Need: Often an internal, subconscious, or emotional requirement (e.g., learn to trust, overcome fear). The Combination: The most compelling stories often pit a character's external desire against their internal need. Enhances Reader Engagement: Rooting Interest: When a character desires something deeply, the reader craves that success for them. Prevents Boredom: A character constantly striving to overcome obstacles is inherently engaging, whereas a passive character destroys interest. To create a compelling story, a writer must quickly establish a, "visible," "active," and "significant" desire for their protagonist, and then challenge them with obstacles that force them to grow in pursuit of it.

Desire came to Middle English desir, desire (noun) and desiren (verb), via Old French desirer, desirrer. It originally evolved from Latin dēsīderō (“to long for, desire, feel the want of, miss, regret”), apparently from de- + sidus (in the phrase de sidere, "from the stars") in connection with astrological hopes. According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the word desire first appeared in English during the Middle English period (1150—1500). The earliest evidence for the verb desire is from around 1225, in the text Hali Meidenhad. The earliest evidence for the noun desire is from around 1330, in the Middle English romance Arthour and Merlin.

When I was a kid, I won a transiter radio on a "punchboard" and I spent the next few years with it virtually attached to me. Before the family splurged for a TV, I used to listen to "The Lone Ranger", "The Shadow", and "Abbot and Costello" on that radio, and since it had an earpiece, I was know to listen to world series games on it in class and passing around a note to my friends every time the score changed. Oh, those were the days!

Warmth in writing stories is crucial because it acts as an "invitation" to the reader, building a sense of trust and emotional connection that keeps them engaged. It acts as the emotional heart of a story, transforming flat, intellectual narratives into immersive experiences that resonate on a personal level. Key Reasons for Warmth in Stories: Creates Emotional Connection: Warmth, defined as a caring disposition or "an emotion of welcome," ensures that readers don't just read the story, but feel it. Fosters Empathy: By evoking emotion through relatable characters and scenes, warmth helps readers step into the shoes of the characters, fostering compassion and understanding. Builds Trust and Safety: It allows for a "secure space" for the reader to engage with potentially difficult, vulnerable, or sensitive topics. Prevents "Other-izing": Warmth bridges the gap between different perspectives or experiences, preventing the audience from pushing characters away. Increases Retention and Impact: According to Maya Angelou, people forget what you said or did, but never how you made them feel. Warmth ensures a lasting, emotional impact. Techniques for Adding Warmth to Writing: Use Sensory Details: Notice small, specific details that add comfort, such as sun-kissed skin or quiet moments. Focus on Character Reactions: Show how characters are realistically affected by their situations, moving them from "cardboard cutouts" to real people. Infuse Vulnerability: Share authentic emotions and vulnerabilities, allowing your characters to be relatable, flawed, and human. Incorporate "Small Kindnesses": Include gestures, smiles, or open body language in dialogue to show caring rather than just telling the reader about it. Weave in Atmosphere: Use descriptions of the environment (like a cozy room or gentle weather) to set a nurturing or safe mood. Warmth vs. Other Emotional Tones While tension is crucial for holding interest, warmth balances that tension, ensuring the story does not become too dark or emotionally exhausting. It is about creating a "visceral" feel that makes the story memorable rather than just intellectually intriguing.

The noun warmth originated in Middle English (late 12th century, warmeth or wearmth), derived from the old English adjective wearm -th. It denotes a state of being warm, or moderate heat. The etymology of the adjective warm itself is of uncertain, debated origin. Option A: Is that it may have come from the Proto-Indo-European (PIE) root *gwher- ("to heat, warm"), which is also the source of the Greek thermos ("warm") and Latin formus ("warm"). Option B: Is that it may stem from the PIE root *wer- ("to burn"), which is connected to Armeanian vaṙel ("to burn"). . The evolution of the meaning of the word warmth is as follows: Physical meaning (12c.): Originally used to describe a "state of being warm; gentle or moderate heat of the atmosphere". Metaphorical meaning (late 15c.): Developed to refer to "ardent, full of zeal" feelings. Temperament meaning (1710): Used to describe a heated temper or anger. Art meaning (1717): Referred to color in paintings. And Game meaning (1860): Used in the sense of being "close to the thing that is sought" (e.g., "you're getting warm"). According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the noun warmth is derived from the Old English word wiermþu (warmth), originating from Proto-Germanic *warmiþo-. It was first used in English during the Middle English period (33+.-1500), with the earliest recorded evidence appearing around 1175 in the Lambeth Homilies. Originally, it referred to the state of being warm or gentle heat (1175). By the 1590s, it might refer to "lively geniality" or "excited state of feeling, and later it came to mean a "heated state of temper" (1710).

Longing comes from Middle English longinge, langynge, from Old English longung, langung (“longing, desire”), from Proto-Germanic *langungō, gerund of Proto-Germanic *langōną (“to desire, long for”), equivalent to long +‎ -ing (gerund ending). According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the word longing has its earliest known use as a noun in the Old English period (pre-1150). Noun (longing, n.¹): Recorded in the Old English period. It is derived from the Old English longung or langung. Adjective (longing, adj.¹): The earliest known use is also in the Old English period. Alternative Adjective (longing, adj.²): A separate entry for the adjective is recorded in the early 15th century (c1400). Noun (love-longing😞 The earliest known use is before 1350. verb ("To long"): The related verb longen (to yearn/desire) is also from Old English, originating from langian ("to grow long, yearn for"). Longing is a foundational, "primal" emotion in storytelling that drives character development, crea tes plot momentum, and fosters deep reader engagement. It goes beyond a simple desire or goal, representing a deep-seated, often unattainable emotional void—a "yearning"—that propels a character to change or act. Key Aspects of Longing in Writing: Drives Character Development and Motivation: Longing is the "why" behind a character's actions, making them feel real and relatable. It forces characters to confront their deepest needs (e.g., for love, safety, or understanding), which in turn drives the story’s plot forward. | Creates Sustained Narrative Tension: Unlike a simple, achievable goal, true longing often remains unfulfilled, creating a "riddle" or "mystery" that keeps the reader hooked. It creates an "active power" that moves the character toward a goal, often through pain or obstacle. Enhances Emotional Depth: By focusing on what a character cannot have, writers can explore themes of loss, nostalgia, and the human condition. It often manifests as a "bittersweet" feeling, where the desire for more or for something lost brings beauty to the narrative. Builds Reader Empathy: Characters filled with longing are more likely to resonate with readers because they reflect universal human experiences. This emotional investment helps readers connect with the story on a deeper, more personal level. Connects to Specific Plot Types: Longing is essential for romantic "slow burns" (pining), coming-of-age stories (desire for growth), and quests (desire for change). Tips for Writing Longing: Show, Don't Tell: Use behaviors like restlessness, checking for messages, or staring into space to demonstrate longing. Internal Monologue: Use a character's thoughts to show their, often subconscious, sense of incompleteness. Sensory Details and Setting: Use imagery like an empty bed, a ticking clock, or a specific scent to evoke a sense of longing and melancholy. Focus on the "Why": Understand the deep-seated emotional reason behind a character's desire to create more authentic, powerful narratives.

"Hesitant" (adjective) originated in the mid-17th century (circa 1640s) from the Latin haesitantem (nominative haesitans), which is the present participle of haesitare, meaning "to stick fast", "falter", or "hesitate". It describes a tendency to pause or act with uncertainty, directly derived from the act of sticking or holding back. The literal meaning of "sticking" (like in mud) evolved into the figurative meaning of being mentally stuck, or undecided. According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the earliest known use of the adjective hesitant in English is from 1647 in the writing of John Trapp, a Church of England clergyman and theological writer. Related terms are: Hesitancy (noun) is recorded earlier, with usage dating back to 1617. Hesitate (verb) is recorded from 1623. Hesitating (adjective) is recorded from 1622. Hesitantly (adverb) is recorded from 1660. Hesitant" in the context of writing stories generally refers to two distinct concepts: a character’s hesitation within the story (as a literary device) and the writer’s own hesitation (doubt, fear, or a "messy" approach to drafting). Both play crucial roles in creating engaging realistic narratives. Importance of Character Hesitation (Internal Conflict): Showing a character hesitating is a powerful tool to build tension and deepen characterization. Signifies Internal Conflict: A character who hesitates is usually weighing consequences, risks, or moral dilemmas. Builds Tension: Instead of a quick, robotic action, having a character pause, look away, or fidget allows the reader to experience the gravity of a decision. Reveals Truth: It allows you to show what a character is truly thinking or feeling, often revealing more than their spoken words. Enhances Realism: Real people do not act instantly; conversations and actions are full of pauses, filler words, and nervous energy. Importance of Writer Hesitation (The "Messy" Process): Writer's hesitation often stems from fear of failure or perfectionism, but embracing this "messy" approach is essential for a productive creative process. Encourages Exploration: Allowing yourself to be unsure or hesitant encourages a "messy first draft," which allows for exploring unexpected, creative connections. Reduces Creative Pressure: By accepting that the first draft will be imperfect, you can bypass the paralyzing need for perfection, making writing more enjoyable and less of a chore. Captures Raw Emotion: Quick, unrefined writing often captures raw, authentic emotions before overthinking dilutes them. Overcomes Writer's Block: Acknowledging the hesitation and writing anyway (even if it's bad) keeps momentum going, allowing you to reach the end of the story, where the real revision begins. Tips for Utilizing Hesitation in Writing: For Character Action: Instead of just saying "she hesitated," describe the physical, observable signs: shaking hands, a quick glance, or a long silence. For Dialogue: Use ellipses to show that a character's speech is trailing off or pausing, rather than using abrupt, clean breaks. For the Writer: When you feel stuck or hesitant, "dive in" and write the scene, knowing you can refine it later. While some hesitation is natural, excessive hesitation can cause procrastination, so the goal is to use it as a tool rather than allowing it to stop you from writing.

He isn't confused. It's called creative reading.

Affection stems from the Latin affectionem ("disposition, relation, state of body or mind"), originating from afficere ("to act on, affect, or produce a change"), a cobination of ad- ("to") and facere ("to do, make". Entering English around the 12th-13th century via Old French afection. Originally, affection referred to a general disposition or state of mind (including "passions" opposed to reason) before narrowing to specifically mean liking, fondness, or love. Affection shares its roots with affect and is distinct from affectation (which comes from the related Latin affectare, "to strive after" or "pretend"). According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) , the noun affection was first used in English during the Middle English period (1150-1500), with evidence dating back to the 14th century (specifically around 1340) to describe an emotion, state of mind, or inclination. It derived from Anglo-Norman and Middle French afeccion, stemming from Latin affectiōnem. The earliest recorded usage is found in the Ayenbite of Inwit (1340) in the sense of a state of mind or inclination. The noun affection appears frequently in late 14th-century texts, such as John Trevisa’s translation of De Proprietatibus Rerum (c. 1398). While the 14th century marks its introduction, the term is well-documented throughout the Middle English period (1150–1500) and later. Affection in storytelling—encompassing love, tenderness, trust, and intimacy—is a vital, often understated, element that elevates a narrative beyond mere plot points. It functions as the emotional heartbeat of a story, enabling readers to invest deeply in the characters and their journeys. Whether between lovers, friends, or family members, scenes of affection provide necessary "breathing room" in high-stakes stories, make characters more relatable, and deepen the emotional resonance of the narrative. Drives Emotional investment (The "Heart" of the Story): Creates Connection: Readers are more likely to remember how a story made them feel rather than specific plot details. Affection creates a palpable emotional connection that makes readers care about the outcome. "No Tears in the Writer...": If the writer does not feel emotion (including affection) while writing, the reader will not feel it while reading. Provides Relatability: Showing tenderness makes characters, even in extraordinary circumstances, seem human and accessible. Strengthens Character Development: Reveals Vulnerability: Affectionate moments reveal a character's softer side, showing their capacity for care and vulnerability, which makes them three-dimensional. Showcases Growth: A character who learns to open up and express affection, particularly after a period of coldness or trauma, offers a powerful character arc. Defines Relationships: Affection (or lack thereof) is a key tool in showing the intimacy, tension, and trust between characters, establishing the foundation of their relationship. Enhances Plot and Tension: Raises the Stakes: When characters genuinely care for one another, the reader fears for their loss. Putting a loved one in danger creates higher stakes than a mere plot-driven threat. Catalyst for Action: Love and affection are powerful motivators. Characters will take risks, make sacrifices, and do "interesting things" (both good and bad) to protect or win the object of their affection. Creates Contrast: In thriller, mystery, or war genres, small, quiet moments of affection provide necessary contrast to the surrounding conflict, making the tension more effective. Improves Narrative Flow: Provides "Squee" Moments: These moments—like stolen glances, tender touches, or unexpected gifts—give the reader a "warm fuzzy" feeling and a break from intense, fast-paced action. Builds Trust: Scenes showing affection (e.g., caring for someone's safety, listening to them) build trust between characters, which in turn builds trust with the reader. Types of Affection in Storytelling: Romantic: Passionate, tender, or playful love, which serves to advance plot and character. Platonic/Friendship: Deep bonds between friends, which can be just as strong and crucial to the plot as romance. Familial: Parental, sibling, or extended family affection, which can drive intense protective motivations. Affectionate, well-developed relationships are the foundation of compelling fiction, helping characters to evolve and transforming a story from a simple sequence of events into a memorable, emotional experience.

Intimacy derives from the Latin intimus ("within", "inside", "innermost", "deepest"" combined with the suffix -cy. It signifies a state of close, personal, or familiar connection, originating from the root intus ("within"). The term evolved from the concept of being "inmost" or having deep, internal knowledge. It is rooted in the Late Late Latin verb intimare ("to make known", "announce", "Impress", "bring into"). The adjective "intimate" appeared in the 1630s meaning "closely acquainted", while the noun "Intimacy" arrived in the 1640s. While the origianal meaning of intimacy indicated a close, personal friendship (1640s), the specific context of sexual intercourse appeared later, by the 1670s, becoming common by the late 19th century. Intimacy generally refers to a deep, close relationship involving shared personal, private, or familiar feelings. According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the noun intimacy was first used in English in the mid-1600s, with the earliest evidence dating back to 1641 in the writing of John Jackson. The term is derived from the adjective intimate, which appeared earlier in the 17th century. According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the earliest known use of the verb intimate is in the mid-1500s. The importance of incorporating intimacy—defined as deep emotional, physical, mental, or spiritual closeness—early in a story serves to immediately forge a bond between characters and readers, setting the stakes for the narrative. Rather than just sexual encounters, early intimacy includes vulnerability, shared secrets, or profound conversations that reveal character motivations and establish the "why" behind their actions. Importance of Early Intimacy in Storytelling: Rapid Character Connection: Introducing intimacy early allows readers to understand a character's "inmost thoughts or feelings" instantly, creating empathy and investment. Establishing High Stakes: Intimate scenes or moments of vulnerability at the start of a story signal what characters have to lose, driving the emotional tension of the plot. Developing Authentic Relationships: Emotional intimacy often begins before physical intimacy, forming a foundation that makes subsequent, more intense scenes feel earned rather than gratuitous. Driving Plot and Pacing: An intimate moment, such as a confession or shared vulnerability, can act as a catalyst that accelerates character development or shifts the power dynamics early on. Building Narrative Trust: "Narrative intimacy," or the closeness between the narrator and the reader, builds trust and allows for a deeper, more personal engagement with the story. Techniques for Establishing Initial Intimacy: Vulnerability and Confession: Starting with a character revealing a secret or a hidden fear immediately hooks the reader. The "Micro" Detail: Focusing on small, sensory details—a touch, a scent, a specific look—grounds the reader in the character's emotional experience. Setting the Tone: Early intimacy, even in non-romantic genres like thriller or mystery, helps to define the relationship between protagonist and antagonist or allies. Free Indirect Speech: Using this technique allows the reader to intimately share the thoughts, feelings, and sensations of a character. In summary, placing intimacy early in a story is not about immediately including a sex scene, but about establishing a "state of closeness" that forces characters to be vulnerable and, in turn, draws the reader into their world.

I guess you forgot about Louella. It seems no one likes her. 😧

Thanks, Tb. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter and I'm glad you love Mac and Devin. It's always good to hear when I've created likable characters.

As far as the Powerball and Lucky for Life tickets, they have to wait for the drawing, so you should find out about that in the next chapter. Liam, Liam, Liam. Is that all you guys can talk about? 😜 I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter.

I'm glad you liked this chapter and the scratch off win. I'm also glad you like the idea of how much money Mac and Devin can start raking in. 😍 And everybody seems to want to know what Liam is going to do. Do you guys all think I'm a mind reader? 😜

Australia has lots of spiders and some of the worst ones, so Aussies have ti be brave, but this dude is fuckin' nuts!

I guess you'll have to read the next chapter to find out. 😜 Who knows what devious schemes lurks in the mind of a parents?

"Devotion" originates form the Latin dēvōtiō ("consecration", "a formal vow", "sacrifice", or "dedication"). It stems from the verb dēvovēre ("to dedicate by a vow", "sacrifice oneself", or "vow away"). It combines de- ("down", "away") with vovēre ("to vow"). It entered English via the Old French devocion (referring to piety or religious devotion) and entered Middle English as devocioun, appearing in the 13th-14th century, initially meaning "a profound religious emotion or reverence. Historically, it signifies a solemn promise, dedication, or profound religious, loving, or loyal commitment to a person, cause, or deity. According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the earliest known use of the noun devotion in English is from around 1225 in the Ancrene Riwle (or Ancrene Wisse), a guide for anchoresses. Devotion plays a fundamental role in writing, serving as the bridge between creative, technical skill and impactful, resonant storytelling. It acts as the "why" behind the "what," transforming writing from a mere task into a purposeful, often transformative, act. In the context of devotional writing, it is the personal, faith-driven foundation, while in a broader creative sense, it represents the dedication to the craft and the nurturing of one's creative spirit. Here is the Importance of Devotion in Writing: Deepens Connection with the Reader: Devotion allows writers to connect with their audience on a deeper, more emotional level. Writing that comes from a place of sincerity and humility—key elements of devotion—enables readers to see, hear, and feel the story, making it more engaging and impactful. Provides Purpose and Direction: Devotion centers the writer's work on a higher purpose, ensuring the writing serves the reader rather than just the writer's ego. It helps to focus on providing value, such as encouraging, instructing, or comforting the reader. Enhances Authenticity and Vulnerability: A devoted writer is often more willing to share personal, raw experiences, which makes the story more relatable. It encourages sharing honest accounts of struggles, failures, and successes, which in turn fosters trust and empathy with the reader. Fuels Creativity and Overcomes Blocks: Devotion to the creative process helps in overcoming writer's block by fostering a consistent practice. When a writer is devoted to their craft and truly loves their subject, it is easier to break through creative paralysis. Ensures Sustained Effort and Growth: Devotion is described as superior to, and the foundation of, discipline. It is the engine that keeps a writer producing work,, refining their skills, and growing in their ability to tell compelling stories. Acts as an Act of Worship/Service: Writing can be a form of devotion itself, acting as a spiritual practice to reflect, process, and find meaning. It enables the writer to create something that can outlive them, leaving a legacy of wisdom or encouragement. Guarantees Emotional Resonance: Devoted writing often connects with the deepest needs of the reader. It allows the writer to share personal stories that make abstract concepts, like faith or hope, real and tangible. In essence, devotion is what moves a story from being merely entertaining to being deeply resonant, making it a powerful, and perhaps even necessary, element for impactful, lasting storytelling.

Yes, Lee, it was a lot of work for Mac to do, but he's the software engineer, so it's in his bailiwick, not Devin's, so he gets stuck doing the work. It would be interesting to see it, though, if it were actually real.

Yes, Mr. Dog, the boys' magic touch is still working and the extra cash always helps out. Hmmm, parents can be sneaky and can come up with ways to get what they want, so we'll have to wait and see what Liam does. I'm not sure how he plans to convince the boys to do what he wants, since he goes through Mike to pass messages to Mac and Devin, so this should be interesting.

Thank you, Johnny, and I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. Yes, the auction of the baseball cards, as well as the gold and silver coins, along with the various antiques that were also found in those bags, should fetch a nice sum at auction. I haven't dealt with Heritage auctions personally, but from what I read, they appeared to be a very reputable and thorough group. It will be interesting to see how those auctions turn out and how much money is raised.

Chapter 34 – Spring Break When we eventually went down to have lunch with my parents, and while we were eating, Mom made a comment. “As soon as you finish your meal, we want you boys to get ready to go shopping with us.” “Why do we have to go grocery shopping with you?” “We’re not taking you grocery shopping. We thought it would be a good idea to take you boys to purchase suits, dress shirts, ties, and pocket squares. We feel those things will make you look stylish when you

So this is how Steve celebrates ground hog day.