Leslie,
When I saw this thread had been updated today I was so excited anticipating a new chapter so soon! I'll admit it - when I saw the words "now complete" I very seflishly thought "No - I don't want it to be over!" But, of course, I understand that all stories have to end - even ones that I love so much.
What an unbelievably beautiful final chapter! Could not have been more perfect. We have our boys being our boys - always so funny and loving and just so real with each other. I could "listen" to them talk through you all day.
I loved when you had all the letters going back and forth between Ennis and the girls way back in ALBFS. I've always loved reading a story through letters and K.E.'s letter to Ennis was really a masterpiece, Leslie. And I choose that word very purposely. Hospice, and hospice nurses especially, are very dear to my heart. And when K.E. mentioned that "old guy and the rainbow stuff" and talked about his nurse (I liked her name, btw
) oh, my . . . .
Anything about Hal really gets to me, and for K.E. to be remembering him too, that was so, so touching. How wonderful that K.E. was able to have such a positive, loving experience through his final months. Thank you for making hospice a part of your stories.
I was happy to see that there is hope for Jenny and Alma. Monthly phone calls are a great idea - and it certainly is promising that Alma bonded with Kelly and, of course, Evan.
Reading K.E.'s obit was so moving. For K.E. to acknowledge, in writing, publicly, that Jack Twist was Ennis's husband - well, those may be my very favorite words throughout the entire story.
There are so many wonderful fics out there - but I don't think any of them have touched me as personally as ALBFS and TTVOT. These stories will always be very close to my heart.
Safe travels and have a wonderful time in Europe. The stage play of BBM - can't wait to hear about that! I look forward to your new story - I already know I'll love it!
Thanks, Leslie!
Hugs,
Marie