Date: Sat, 22 Jan 2022 23:39:04 +0100 (CET)
From: jacoblion@tutanota.com
Subject: A Neglected Boy The Twins CV

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A Neglected Boy "The Twins" CV
jacoblion@tutanota.com

Part 1 is told by Ethan
Part 2 is told by Kori
Part 3 is told by Keith
Part 4 is told by Jake

      Sometimes with Antonio, Kris, and Lorenzo ... and I guess I should
mention Kyle, Justin, Lars n Marco the conversation can get a little loud,
a little overpowering.  They `all' have to be the center of attention
... that would be Keith's observation, and he's right.  He's not always
right but this time he has the observation nailed. Give the boy 20 points.

   Anyway, we were having an amazing breakfast with waffles, eggs, toast,
pancakes, bacon, sausage, and orange juice along with cocoa or hot
chocolate, as some of the brats call it.  Keith and I prefer a hot cup of
coffee with Jake, he drinks his black, Keith and I like cream and 2 sugars.
Kori has tea ... right tea for breakfast, he learned that from Jake's
friend Jonah.

   Speaking of Jake, while most mouths were stuffed and trying to chew
bacon Jake presented us with 3 choices for the day. ... 1, stay here and
walk around looking at what we had already looked at yesterday, then stay
the night or, 2, take a completely different route back to the farm, or 3,
get on the expressway and be back in Ashfield early.

   I don't think Jake or Kori are ever ready for what Keith and I can find.
So, we made a counteroffer that was completely `Unexpected' So, choice #4
leave right after breakfast for `The Butterfly Conservatory' then jump on
the express route n be back at the farm early evening.  Cheers from
everyone.
https://www.niagaraparks.com/visit/attractions/butterfly-conservatory/ All
in favor = 10 and that wasn't counting Kori and Jake who had never even
thought about the Butterfly Conservatory.

   The most amazing thing was how fast breakfast was finished, bags packed,
and Justin and Kyle tugging and pushing Jake and Kori toward the bus.
Keith remarked how happy the Whippets seemed to be to get on the bus.

   We were on the bus in our seats and buckling up when Justin said ... "I
gotta pee" ... ... so there is nothing new about that; except that so did
Kyle, Marco, Lorenzo, Kris ... well, I'm sure you get the idea.  Even Jake
had to pee ... I think that was the result of 3 or 4 cups of black coffee.

   Kori was at the wheel ... the key turned and the engine came to
life. Like some monster in a dream, it roared and shook the back of the
bus.  Twenty minutes and 6 miles later we pulled into `The Butterfly
Conservatory'. ... I have to admit it was Keith that had the idea and
honestly it was brilliant. We didn't want to stay at the `Falls' and we
didn't want to go home that early either.

   When I was 10 0r 11 back in New Haven we went on lots of school trips
and I don't remember us being as obnoxiously loud as this group.  Then
again I went to Catholic Parochial School and we had `Sisters and Brothers'
as teachers.  Nuns were scary but `The Brothers', hell they were Irish and
carried a big stick, you'd never think of saying anything like Kyle,
Justin, or Marco.  As I'm thinking about it Marco and Lorenzo go to
Catholic school.

   Keith was standing at the front of the bus and shouted QUIET! ...Whoa,
that got everyone's attention. ... "Listen up Brats! Learn to behave before
your foot hits the ground as you step off this `tour' bus.  If any of you
step out of line, you'll have Ethan to deal with and he's not gonna go easy
on you.  Think I'm joking just look at him ... guarantee you'll have your
undies up around your neck like a little girl's scarf."

   There was uncontrollable laughter and a few little brats pretending to
be getting `wedgies' by the person standing behind them.  Then I glared at
them ... ... Damn if they didn't all get quiet. ... I don't know how Keith,
Kori, and Jake managed not to burst out laughing.

   Justin grabbed Keith's hand . . . . "Don't be mad Keif, we'll be good I
promise ... Ok?" . . . . The look on Justin's face said he wasn't fooling
he was serious.  I guess by now everyone realizes that there is a very
tight bond between Kyle and me and Justin and Keith.  I don't think Keith
or I can describe in words how much we love Justin and Kyle, like real
brothers.

   The crew now excited but in control stepped off the bus and as a group
entered the building.  Kori paid the admission and one by one we stepped
inside one of the largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatories in North
America.  An understatement was that we discovered a tropical garden oasis.

   The Butterfly Conservatory features over 2,000 vibrantly `coloured'
<(for those in real English countries) butterflies fluttering freely
throughout winding pathways.  Every step we took was with lush vegetation
and trickling waterfalls.  Even better was the fact that it is a
self-guided walking tour.

   We made our way through 180-meters of meandering pathways surrounded by
towering tropical plants and gorgeous blooms.  This tropical oasis was ours
to explore! ...  We found feeding trays where butterflies gather for an
up-close look.  These trays are specially curated blooms that attract all
these fascinating creatures.  A waterfall created a virtual rain forest
atmosphere.  We were so lucky to see a butterfly emerge from its pupa,
hanging to dry its wings before its first flight.

   We could have spent all day.  The section at the waterfall was probably
the favorite it was so amazing for everyone, we definitely had a great
time. The 180 meters sounded like a long walk but when we looked it up it
was just over a 10th of a mile or 551 feet.  Lorenzo and Kris were perfect
gentlemen as we walked the twists and turns of the conservatory.

   Lunch? ... Yes, and isn't it funny how when you're approaching the very
end of the tour, you're only a few feet from the food court.  Pizza,
burgers, hotdogs, fries, chips for those in some countries, I was informed
by Marco one of our international travelers.

    Jake and Kori had large salads with grilled chicken and the rest of us
had burgers, chicken tenders and we ordered 4 small pizzas to share.  I
think Kori and Jake were amazed at how much we enjoyed the stop here.
Tourists, I guess you could call us as some of the crew dragged us through
the gift shop.

   Keith and I were watching how much fun Kyle and Justin were
having. Everyone, including Keith and I, were trying to decide on a patch,
a pin, but in the end, we all chose these glass frames with butterflies
sandwiched in the glass or a round glass ball that made the butterfly look
like it was flying.

   Time was passing, and as Jake would say Kori shifted into his alter
`being', and now we were receiving directions.  I was going to say `orders'
but that's just unfair ... it's just funny that the sound of his voice
changes just slightly, just enough that you know that he's guiding us in a
different direction.  Right now the direction is toward the bus.

   Ok, Jake was all smiles watching Kori then Keith picked up on what was
happening.  Well, it's like this ... not counting Keith, and I there are 8
others that have the attention of a gnat or a midge, as some people call it
and I hate to say it but sometimes Jake has said Keith and I aren't much
better.

   I signaled to Keith and we had helped get the mindless ones going in the
right direction.  Everyone on the bus and to help things along Keith and I
took Penny and Silence for a quick walk ... "Go Pee" I said and `Voila',
using my almost total French vocabulary, they did.  Whippets are so smart.

    With the `cheeky little brats' seated, dogs in harnesses and `Captain'
Kori at the wheel the bus lurched forward and ... and it stopped.  It
wasn't running ... the engine wasn't making a sound ... "nada", "zilch"
somehow something had happened.

   Jake, having worked on tractors as a kid with his granddad at the farm
said he give it a try.  We all thought it was funny when he said ... "Kori,
let me give it try sometimes it's just the operators inexperience"
... ... Oh yeah, like Kori thought that was hilarious ... `Not'

   Jake slid into the driver's seat like a veteran; like he'd been driving
a bus for 30 years.  It was so obvious that when he turned the key the bus
would come to life with a roar. ... ... Our tween/teen crew had unbuckled
and were standing right behind Kori as Jake turned `the Key'

   That was it ... amazing, we cheered ... applauded even as the sound of
the engine did nothing, nope, "nada" , "zilch" ... ... There was some type
of `grumbling, grunts, and snorts from Jake, some of which we've never
heard. He, at one time, sounded something like a cross between a "bull and
a donkey" ... ... Understand that is not my interpretation, I prefer to
remain on good terms with Jake, however, Kori can pretty much say what he's
thinking and get away with it.

   "Kori, look on your cell phone and find the nearest diesel mechanic."
Now at that point Jake wasn't making a suggestion, nor was it even a polite
request.  He was frustrated, out of sorts and our cheering and applause
hadn't helped the situation.

   Two "parents" now turned their attention toward us.  Actually directly
at me and Keith ... "You two get the rest of the crew back inside the
museum, be quiet and just stay at the food court where Jake and I can find
you"

   There wasn't any need for interpretation we understood perfectly.  Off
the bus and back to the food court.  To be honest that wasn't such a bad
idea and we all needed another drink along with some cookies, peanut butter
crackers, and strawberry tarts.

   "Hope you guys are enjoying yourselves ... a mechanic is on the way from
just down the street at that truck stop we passed on the way here ... so
just stay put!"  ... Jake wasn't angry just frustrated ... I think it's his
age.

   Thirty minutes later, and having consumed a good selection of cookies,
peanut butter crackers, 8 strawberry tarts, and in waked Kori and Jake all
smiles. ... ... "All fixed now so Jake and I will join you and have a cup
of coffee, tea and some of those cookies, they look good."  Kori said, with
a very pleasant smile. ... Keith and I are thinking it must have been an
easy fix.

   The tweens all gathered close to Kori and Jake, and the questions
started firing like a `Gatling Gun' what was wrong? ... ... Kori started,
and just by his first few words this was going to be a very long technical
explanation of not only the problem, but also a detailed description of
every tool and move the diesel mechanic made.

   Jake, to our rescue, stepped in and said . . . . "It was a wire that had
come loose, a part of the ignition, and it took the mechanic 5 minutes.
Now if you all would please clean this mess and get back on the bus
... Kori and I would be so grateful".

   "Thanks Jake ... that was the short version was it?" ... Kori looked a
little miffed as he was looking at Jake.  Got to be honest here ... Jake
and Kori can be so funny at times ... they're both teachers, both like to
lecture and will find opportunities in the most unbelievable places or
subjects.  The funniest thing is how they both get annoyed at each other
for doing it.

   Penny and Silence were sleeping, with one eye open, and the bus was
running and all nice and warm.  There was a change of driver as Jake slid
right into the driver's seat, and that left Kori with his mouth open
... trying to catch flies, I guess.  Keith and I were laughing because Kori
is the primary driver ... or at least that's what he thinks.  We were
definitely on the road and none of us even had fastened our seatbelts.

   I helped Antonio, ... Keith helped Kris while he was trying to help
Lorenzo.  The giggling started and I think everyone got a little
`touchy-feely' and in some cases, it became all out intentional groping.
Amazing no one complained.

   The drive back to the farm was faster than the drive to Niagara Falls
but then again, we were on the expressway almost all the way.  Silence and
Penny slept all the way.  They never even raised their heads ... that is
until we made the turn into our driveway.  They slowly got up, stretched
and walked forward, to the end of their leads, and looked out the front
window.

   We all wonder how the whippets know we're home.  I wish someone could
explain that. ... Jake pulled just past the storage shed at the end of the
barn, slipped the bus in reverse and backed it right into its parking spot.
So perfect he got a round of applause, and 2 of the crew gave him a little
peck on the cheek.  I thought he'd swat Kris when Kris gave him a smack on
the butt and told him he was a pro.

   I think Kris gets away with a lot of stuff, but he isn't getting away
with not helping unload the bus ... Nope, ... Kori shoved the large cooler
right into Kris's waiting arms then piled a big bag on top. ... Shock is
the only way to describe the expression on his face.  He almost started to
protest when Jake asked ... ... "Kris can you take this bag too?"

   Kris didn't hear Jake, conveniently much like Justin and Kyle, and moved
quickly out the door.  Keith, standing in the aisle near the front door,
blocked the others from trying to escape.  Perhaps I'm exaggerating but it
does seem that some of this crew does try to avoid work whenever possible.

   Finally, ... the bus was unloaded and everything neatly in the house.
With this crew, I'm sure everyone in Ashfield knowing our crew would know
what came next. ... ... "What's for dinner" ... thanks for asking Kyle and
then that question was echoed several more times.

Part 2 of this Chapter is told by Kori

   Yes, ... Keith and Ethan, just what are you two planning for dinner?
... ... Oh, the smile on Jake's face when I asked our two oldest teens that
question.  I asked the question, Jake smiled, a wicked smile it was, then
the taunting started by all rest of the rowdy crew.

   Ethan and Keith glared at the group of monsters, (little giggling from
one then another) ... ... then it was dead silence. ... No, no Silence
wasn't dead ... (it was just very quiet) she and Penny were just fine, and
apparently by their attention to Keith and Ethan were also waiting to hear
what was for dinner.

   "If you really want to know" ... said Keith, letting each word drop one
after the other in slow motion ... "How would Liam's `Shepard's Pie' be?"
... ... It was cheers from everyone including Jake; ... ... I guess I was a
little vocal too.  I mean seriously who doesn't like Liam's Shepard Pie?
And, if there was someone who didn't like that creation they would be sent
to Siberia with a one-way ticket and 20 years of hard labor pounding rocks.

   Somehow, I get the feeling Ethan and Keith had that already planned
because their response was just to quick.  Best thing is everyone is happy,
especially Jake.  We had already talked to the boys about getting
everything ready for tomorrow and returning to New Haven.  It's back to
school for 3 weeks before Christmas break.

   Speaking of Christmas break ... everyone has mixed feelings because
Antonio and Kris will be leaving with Lorenzo and Marco on the flight back
to Naples right after Christmas.  I think Antonio and Kris are super
excited about being in the student exchange program ... as for the
rug-rats, Ethan and Keith ... well, let's just say they have mixed
feelings.  I think it will be difficult for all of us not to see those boys
for such a long time.  They'll be in Europe and we'll be on our adventure.
Let's just keep a positive attitude.

   Jake was best at talking to Kyle and Justin about it, problem is that
`The Twins' will most of the time shake their heads as if understanding,
but that doesn't mean they really understand; they just do it to please
Jake and me.

    How very interesting ... everyone has vanished ... that is except two
charming Whippets who need to go out.  Jake opened the backdoor ... Penny
and Silence stood right at the open door looking at the backyard then
directly and Jake and me, then at the backyard. ... ... Ok, ok ... we
grabbed our jackets and along with our 4-legged friends headed out the door
a dash across the back porch and down the steps.

   The race was on................... Five times around the yard as fast as
they could go.  On the last lap Penny was ahead by almost a full body
length. Then the turn at the far corner, ... wow ... Silence hit the
afterburner and dashed by Penny.  In the end they both charged directly for
us and stopped right at our feet. ... ...  With the Whippets leading it was
up the steps and a dash across the porch and stopped at the backdoor.  Jake
and I had been taken ... what I mean is that we thought they needed to go
pee `or something' ... Ha-ha ... they just wanted to play and wanted us for
company ... dogs are smart.  Penny and Silence have their way of letting us
know what they want and most of the time they get it.

   Jake and I, along with our 4-footed friends, stepped into the kitchen
with the aroma of something good in the oven.  Then it was the sound of
laughter, and what may have been mistaken as a full infantry division
marching down the hallway.  In fact, it was 8 very handsome boys dropping
their backpacks for tomorrow's trip back to New Haven.

   "What's going on?" Jake demanded to know, ... "and why are you guys all
dressed up so nice like gentlemen at a country club?" ... ... "The Twins"
in their charming little way just snuggled up to me and Jake saying in
unison, as only they can do, ... "We just wanted tonight to be special,
aren't you `Dads' going to shower and change too?"

   Why am I feeling guilty?  I didn't do anything.  Jake looked at me, it
was a head to toe, toe to head look.  Our clothes looked like we'd been in
them for a week all wrinkled. ... ... Kris, yes he seems to get away with
more than the others, looked at Jake and me ... pointed to our bedroom and
master bath and said ... ... "and don't come out till you have washed
`everything' (he had a silly little grin when he said that) Oh, and dress
nicely for dinner."

   Jake just smiled, I know that smile, and said "Thanks Kris, it may take
Kori and I a few minutes but we'll be all clean from head to toe."

   Now I was smiling ... it's been awhile and we both certainly needed a
good hot shower, and after all Kris did say "wash everything" Oh, yes
everything!

   Heat lamps on, bathroom temperature turned up to 85, shower set for
gentle rain and very warm, not hot; I don't think we need the water set for
hot ... that is not judging by the looks of Jake's condition.  We stepped
in and it was perfect.  I don't remember the last time I felt this excited,
maybe a better term would be `horny' and ready to go.  Perhaps I was 13.

   We were just holding each other under the falling rain when the door
opened and Antonio said ... "Just to let you know Keith said we've got an
hour before dinner." ... I heard the door close and thought ... Oh yes,
we've got an hour of fun.  An hour of fun and I'm gonna make the best of
it.

   Geeeeze ... the curtain slid back and `yes' the door had closed, but it
closed with Antonio and Kris standing there naked. ... ... They were `hard
as nails'. With no invitation, they stepped right in, and right between me
and Jake.

   Jake and I both began to push Antonio and Kris away.  Kris said ... "We
want to make you smile, n give you a little something to remember us by
while we're in Naples with Lorenzo and Marco." ... Well, it seems with what
Antonio was doing he had me in agreement.  One look at Jake and he had
already given in to whatever Kris wanted, and that would be fine with him.

   I'll never forget tonight with Antonio and Kris, neither will Jake.
These two boys know how to please but in a very loving way.  ... Kris and
Antonio dressed quickly leaving Jake and me to recover from our
exercise. Now it was dry off and find some suitable clothes for dinner.
I'm exhausted.....!

   Casual pants and polo shirts would be the best choice.  We were off to
join the boys in the kitchen and who knows what they may be up to. (The
stories this old farmhouse kitchen could tell) We did expect some smiles,
chatter, and maybe even a comment from Lorenzo about Jake and me and our
hour of fun, however not even a questioning look from anyone.

   Ethan gave everyone the seating arrangements.  I was at one end of our
long kitchen table, and Jake at the other.  On my right was Kyle and on my
left Antonio.  Looking at the other end of the table sat Jake, and on his
right was Justin, and on his left was Kris, with a grin, like the cat that
ate the canary, but nothing was said.  The other members of this handsome
crew filled in the other seats.  Three of the boys had cheeky little grins.

   Not one but two large casserole dishes filled with Liam's Shepard's Pie
were set family style in the center of the table.  Alongside each of the
casserole dishes were rounded platers of roasted asparagus.  Ok, let's talk
kids ... some/many kids don't like veggies ... not these kids they love
most all vegetables, and asparagus just goes so well with Shepard's Pie.

   Nothing was on anyone's plate yet when Marco, Kyle, and Antonio asked,
(all at the same time) what's for dessert? ... ... "Nothing!" Keith said
... we all knew that was a lie.  Keith included one of those looks that
says "n if you ask again I'll have to kill you".......  There was a little
under the breath laughing but no one asked about dessert again.

   Dinner was over and the question was ... `is there anything left in
those two large casserole dishes?' ... Answer -- No! not even the
slightest, smallest little morsel. ... Now the question -- What's for
dessert?  Everyone's smiling.

   With not much time Keith and Ethan had baked some sourdough biscuits cut
in half and smothered in strawberries and topped with soft vanilla and
strawberry ice cream. ... "Please don't bother to ask if anything was left,
you already know there wasn't."  Dinner was finished and now the excitement
to see who was doing the dishes and cleaning the kitchen.

   Keith had a brilliant idea ... 10 pieces of paper with numbers on them
were placed in a cereal bowl.  We all picked a number, even Ethan and
Keith.  The result was the 3 lowest numbers would do dishes and clean the
kitchen. #1=Lorenzo ... #2=Kyle ... #3=Me? ... what I have to help with
this mess. Not fair Jake and I do all the driving, and put up with these
monsters, and Now I Have To Do Dishes ... not fair, just so unfair, plus I
paid for all you guys eat, let's draw numbers again.... I thought it was
fair to draw again.

   "Stop your whining Kori ... fair is fair you got the number you picked
...start washing." said Jake ... ... but Jake it really isn't
fair. ... Well, I was just putting on a big act and now everyone was
laughing and pretending to be me `whining' it was very annoying.  It only
took 30 minutes and everything was spotless.

   The living room was full of bodies.  They were all saying what they
wanted for Christmas, and what it was going to be like when the 4 of them
head back to Naples.  As for our 4 boys they were all talking about where
we would be going for our first adventure after the New Year.

   Jake asked all the boys ... "Kyle, all the boys includes you and your
brother" ... sometimes we have to make sure "The Twins" understand the
English Jake and I use ... Oh, sorry I got off in another direction
... Jake was asking "all the boys" to please put their backpacks and
`stuff' in the back hall near the door so we could load the bus and be on
the road by 10 am.

   Seems things were accomplished quickly and it was off to bed.  Jake and
I were going to have our bedroom to ourselves. ... (As I said) ... We were
going to have our bedroom to ourselves, that is until two beautiful little
Whippets charged through the door hit the bed and did their little trick of
slipping under the covers, then peeking just their heads out.  It's so
funny their eyes were already closed pretending to be asleep; must have
learned that from Justin and Kyle.

   Hugging up to a Whippet isn't so bad, plus they won't give up the center
of the bed ... so, Jake and I just went off to sleep. ... ... Something, I
don't know what made me look at the clock, it was 3 am.  I didn't even know
when Kyle and Justin snuck in bed, but they were all hugged up to me and
Jake.  I must have been really exhausted from our playtime before
dinner. ... hmmm, just thinking of that had consequences. (you don't need
to ask; you already know what I'm talking about.)

    I heard voices. ... I just realized I was alive and no longer asleep.
I was listening to Jake and Justin discussing why he and his brother had
crawled in with us in the middle of the night.  I loved the answer Justin
was giving Jake.......... "Dad we like sleeping with you and other Dad.
You hug soft n good it's like we feel how much you loves us." ... ... there
was a brief silence and then Justin said ... "Dad, you know Kyle n me we
love you guys lots n lots n it's ok if you gettin a little old, we still
loves you."

   I was about to crack up, and Jake was about to give Justin a good
thrashing, if he could catch him. ... Jake had Justin trapped in the
bathroom and I could hear the shower. ... Next thing I knew I was being
dragged from the bed by the other brat ... Kyle.  The not so little
rug-rats love it if Jake and I give them a good scrubbing.  I guess it's a
great way to start the day.  Just a little bit of fun for all of us.  Jake
and I do see how much Kyle and Justin are growing now that they are
`Tweens'.

   Breakfast: ... today it is a delight to have as our breakfast team
Antonio, and Lorenzo.  We'll be presented an Italian breakfast as we were
so informed by Kris our handsome server.  He is, no doubt about it, damn
cute with his curly hair and big smile.  Here he is with a large dinner
napkin folded over his arm as he filled glasses, and cups with orange
juice, coffee, tea, and hot cocoa.  I couldn't resist giving him a little
attention to his backside.  The result of that was a big smile from Kris,
and a look that could kill from Jake. ... I don't want to say what I was
thinking.

   Perfectly done were soft scrambled eggs with prosciutto, fontina, and
chives.  Toasted English/Italian muffins topped with thin sliced pepperoni
and just a taste of salsa complimented the meal.  We've never had this but
everyone was in agreement that we'll have it again.  Cheers and applause
for the breakfast crew. ... Hugs, kisses and a few pinches too.

   Our plan for the day is clean, do the laundry, and repack everything
used for the extra crew in the last few days.  Pack the bus, exercise the
dogs and right after lunch get on the road and head back to New Haven.  I
think right this minute Jake and I have mixed feelings about this trip.
Bittersweet is the best word to describe my feelings, I think Jake will
agree.

   Kris was in the laundry room with Keith filling the washer.  As I
passed, on my way to our bedroom, I noticed big tears streaming down his
face. Keith just hugged him and I heard Keith say ... "Kris, you'll have a
great time.  It's an adventure for you and Antonio.  It'll be so exciting.

   Lunch over, dogs out to play then back in the house for a drink and a
few cookies for everyone.  Out the door, check the lock twice, unlock the
door and let Justin go pee, check to see if he flushed the toilet then back
out. Lock the door, ... check it twice.  Ahhh, we're on the bus ... I'm
driving!

   I turned the key and ... and ... the engine came to life with the roar
of a lion.  We were on the road.  OMG the trip was all laughs and someone/s
needed to be reminded of language a few times.  And if Jake or I hear Kyle
or Justin using those words again it'll be wash mouths with soap. ... Of
course, they know we wouldn't, but a good threat of pain and bodily injury
is always a way to get their attention.  We didn't have to repeat the
threat.

   The trip to New Haven and right to the Judge's house with Antonio and
Kris was just 2 hrs. and 15 minutes.  Oh, the excitement when the door
opened and `Nonna' started giving Antonio and Kris kisses.  Oooooo, Kyle,
Justin, Keith, and Ethan weren't about to let that pass.  What comes around
goes around.  Justin, Kyle, Keith, and Ethan didn't escape unscathed.
Justin was squealing like he was being tortured.  Kyle made a mad dash for
the bus but, was caught by Henry, then he got his little welcome back kiss.
Funny how we all have become a big family.

   Whippets were racing around Henry's yard and the crew just couldn't stop
laughing.  It was time for Jake and I to get our little crew back on the
bus and head over to our place.  As we pulled in, I couldn't help think I
wish we were back at the farm.  I think it was a selfish thought but I
would rather be there than anywhere.  I love New Haven but I love Ashfield
more.

   The house was warm and it was nice to be home, even with my other
thoughts.  There wasn't much to unload from the bus and only 15 minutes
later we had already settled down.  "What's for dinner?"  I knew that
question was next so I suggested ... Great Wall of China.  You'd think
someone won the lottery.  So, it was agreed that after Jake and I had a
little time to recuperate we'd drive over for a good buffet dinner there.

How plans can change ...

Part 3 told by Keith

Ethan, what do you think you want for Christmas? ... ... "Nothing Keith
we're gonna be on the road.  You wanna ask the brats?" ... ... Yeah Ethan
lets talk to them, I'll get them. ... "Hey, Justin n Kyle we wanna ask you
something ... hurry up!"  (sound of 12 feet running down the hall)

   "Keith and I wanna know what you guys want for Christmas and don't make
it something big we're gonna be on the road.  Keith and I don't want
anything we have all we need ... besides, we'll get things on the trip you
know how `Dads' are they'll be buying us all kinds of stuff." ... I think
Ethan got his point across. ... The brats thought for a minute. ... You
could see their brains working ... `holy mackerel' ... they had a brilliant
idea!

   Ethan, Justin, Kyle and I walked down the hall, we could hear Jake, and
Kori in the kitchen, their usual meeting place it has coffee, tea, and ice
cream, but they always deny the ice cream part.  So, it must be Justin, and
Kyle that eat the ice cream late at night.  Oh, and the oatmeal cookies
too.

   "Hey `Dads' can we join you?" ... "Whatever it is you're gonna try to
extort from us the answer is NO." ... now Jake is definitely on his game
saying that. ... Hey wait you guys Ethan, Justin, Kyle n me wanna talk
about Christmas.  We've been talking, we already know you want to spend
lots of money on us.... "Where did you get that idea" Kori asked with a big
smile.

   I couldn't help it and said ... could you guys just listen to us for a
minute? ... then Justin burst in "We don't want no presents, and we already
know Santa is a fig...... something of you guys imagination ... we want you
to give to some poor kids; Ok? we gots enough; so, spend lots on them not
us."

   We were all looking at Kori and Jake.  They didn't seem shocked they
just smiled.  Then they got a little emotional, then we got hugs.  Ethan
kinda took over continuing with ... ... "We have everything we need, you
just got us new laptops, tablets, phones and we're gonna to be traveling so
we thought it would be good to give to some poor kids in Ashfield."

   I was looking at Jake and Kori waiting for some kind of reply.  Jake was
busy texting.  He never does that and I kinda thought it was rude.

   My phone, n Ethan's phone vibrated ... A text from Jake read ... "You
boys never stop surprising me n Kori.  All 4 of you, with what little
normal ups and downs, you always show so much love.  What you're asking is
just another example why Kori and I are so lucky to have you in our lives."

  The text continues ... "I think you have a wonderful idea and it would be
the best Christmas present for Kori and me to help you with what you are
asking.  Here is the number for Deputy Morgan, ask him for his idea of the
families most in need. ... ... He'll love to help - 628.555.1234."

   Ethan, Kyle, and Justin were all excited and I was trying not to get all
emotional.  Dinner plans changed to pick up.  With dinner at home, we could
sit at the table and start planning.  The big thing we decided was that
whoever the kids were the tag on their presents would say "From Santa".

   Dinner was great as usual and Deputy Morgan was on the project even
before we finished talking to him.  Tomorrow was back to school for all of
us. ... Even with us being good students the semester finals always create
upset stomachs.  The next 3 weeks passed in a flash ... finals finished and
we waited and waited ... then the notice ... placements are posted.

   The results -- Justin and Kyle were top of their class.  Ethan and I
placed at the very top ending the term with a GPA of 4.89.  Harvard, Duke,
Yale, Brown ... seriously isn't the point of our adventure to see if other
universities may be best for Ethan and I? ... Will Ethan and I go to the
same University? ... Have I mentioned how much I love Ethan?

   I just thought about my last statement/question.  I want to add this
... Have I mentioned how much I love Justin and Kyle? ... Have I mentioned
how much I love Jake and Kori.  No one knows, no one could know what it is
like to be a part of this family.  I know I'm only a kid but there is
something about Jake and Kori that all of us have absorbed, I guess through
`osmosis' or something.

   Ok, that's that; now we close up the house here in New Haven and it's
back to Ashfield, and get ready for Christmas, and the week to New Years
then on the road ... Yeah, On the Road Again.

   We have our list from Deputy Morgan and Ethan, Kyle, Justin and I have
spent so much time picking out gifts for each of the kids.  Deputy Morgan
agreed to dress up as Santa and visit each of the homes late at night.  His
friend is driving him in a police SUV so no one will think it's some kind
of burglar.  We've also been creating the first part of our `On the Road
Again' adventure.  Just a hint it starts going south down the east coast of
the US.

   Christmas will be a blast.  We have the biggest tree it touches the
ceiling and for 7 days we wrapped little presents for Penny and Silence and
for 7 days the tore them open in seconds.  Justin and Kyle were rolling on
the floor laughing.  That got the Whippets all hyper and racing all around.

   I think Neil, Peter, Lars, and Lukas will really enjoy hosting Christmas
dinner at their place.  It has to be at their place because of the number
of people.

   Ok, here is the list starting with Neil's brats ... Lars, Lukas (Lukas
loves sex, and lots of it.)  Neil, Peter, and now on to Antonio's crew and
that included Kris, the Judge, Nonna, Antonio's mother, Lorenzo, Marco, and
now the others ... Deputy Morgan (he's just a big kid) Hellen, Mr. Prince,
the old principal at the elementary school, Yori Ito, Liam, Abby, and their
twins Alex and Will, Bret Wilson, our state wildlife officer, Calvin,
Raven, and her friend Lyla, and to finish off the list we have Jake, Kori,
Justin, Kyle, Ethan and me; and that's a house full.  I'm not good at
counting but, (4.89 GPA just a reminder) I think 30 is the total, not
counting the dogs.

   It was a blast and everyone had so much fun.  Probably the thing that
will be most remembered is when Raven said "I've got a special present for
Kris" then pulled him in tight and gave him one of her special kisses.  The
crowd erupted in cheers.  Kris turned so red, then asked for another one.

   I have one question ... is Kris really gay or is it just a phase?
Because he definitely didn't mind when Raven kissed him, and then asked for
another.

   Christmas is over ... now the big cleanup.  Jake and Kori want the tree
down and all the decorations packed, who knows where we'll be next
year. The week was gone in a flash.  Sometimes we'd run down to New Haven
to spend the night with Antonio, Lorenzo, Marco, and Kris; sometimes they
spent a night or 2 here with us.  When they're here it's more fun.

   We woke with `Captain Bligh' ... "shouting Breakfast in 10 minutes"
... Ok, Kori but maybe we don't have the hearing problem you think we have.
This wasn't going to be a good day.  Today right after breakfast we'll run
down to New Haven, and go with Henry when he takes Antonio, Kris, Lorenzo,
and Marco to the airport in Providence.  Yep, today is the day they leave
for Naples. ... ... Tomorrow we leave Ashfield for points `South' and I
guess into the unknown for the next 8 months or so.

   We arrived at the airport and the flight was on time for departure at
2:38 pm.  I thought how interesting the departure time ... 2:38, why not
2:30 or 2:45 ... it's just odd that it's 2:38.  No reason to go into any
details ... no one looked happy.  Kris had all he could do not to start
with the tears.  Justin, well it's just Justin and he wasn't going to let
go of Kris till the last second. Kyle and Lorenzo were glued together
... never mind the rest it's just depressing and we don't know when we'll
see them again.  Not a good day.

   The boys walked to the gate for boarding ... Henry was trying to smile
through the tears.  To be honest I never thought Henry would let Antonio
and Kris go. ... He just loves them so much.

   We watched the plane as the wheels let go of the runway and slowly began
it's climb to the clouds above, then it was gone. ... Definitely not a good
day.

   Henry and Nonna joined us at the Great Wall of China.  Thank goodness
for the brats; soon they had us laughing along with most of the restaurant
when Kyle spotted a goldfish swimming on its side. "Yep, it's gonna be
floater soon" then the echo from Justin "Yep, gonna be a floater soon"

   They weren't being brats or obnoxious they were just being our rug-rats.

   Dinner over we said our goodbyes and drove back to the Farm.  Now the
excitement was beginning to settle in for all of us.  Kori had taken the
bus for a routine check of all the electrical and had an oil change during
the last week.  We all know how Kori can be but, I think tonight he was
just trying to keep us busy.  It was ... "Ok, take this to the bus, did you
pack your games, do you have extra `Speedos' ... Oh, and a regular swimsuit
too? ... did you load Penny and Silence's toys?" ... He knew we all had a
check list and had checked it 3 or 4 times.  Maybe he was trying to keep
busy.

   It was 10 pm.  Dogs had been out and had a good run.  Snacks were
over. Family meeting in the kitchen ... It was agreed to get an early
start.  We were directed to be up at 5:30 ... breakfast at 6 ... on the
road at 7 am.  Ethan and I agreed we'd make sure all the lights were off
and doors locked so Kori and Jake could have the bus running and Penny and
Silence in their harness, and Justin, and Kyle tied to their seats .... I'm
kidding.

   Kyle and Justin went to bed with Jake and Kori.  Ethan went to bed with
me.  It's not polite to ask if we did anything, just use your imagination.

   Morning, yes it was! ... Ethan and I made breakfast, Jake got Kyle and
Justin organized in their `half-asleep' state of being.  Kori had the
Whippets out then as soon as that was taken care of, he and Jake quickly
stripped the beds and folded everything.  Peter, Lars, and Lukas had agreed
to throw everything in the wash for us.  Ethan n I did use towels, last
night ... even so I bet Lars, n Lukas will know we had some fun.

   We were on schedule.  Kori was so happy, it's a Yale thing, or a
professor thing, or military thing ... but he was never in the military; if
he had been, he would have had to be Chief of Staff or something important
like that.

   It was 6:45 and we were on the bus.  Kori was driving (Admiral) Jake was
executive officer, even so he was giving Kori directions, those two can be
so funny at times.  The bus pulled forward turned right down our long
winding driveway.  At the end of the driveway, it's a left turn and soon we
were on interstate 91S heading for New Haven.

Part 4 is told by Jake

   We had just turned onto 91S and it was as if the bus went on
autopilot. We have made this trip so many, many times.  Ashfield to New
Haven, ... New Haven to Ashfield and home to the farm.  This time was
different we were leaving on an adventure that will take us to new and
exciting places. The best thing is that it will be new for all of us, and
we are doing this as a family.  As has been said by so many people "it's
not the destination it's the journey that matters" ...  This journey will
be ours to remember forever.

   Our plan is to stop outside Washington DC and visit Smithsonian Museum,
well that is what we can see in one day, the museum is
huge. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fdcEKPS6tOQ&ab_channel=TravelwithCamera

  That was just a very small part and so was this the Museum of American
History.  Both tours were amazing and all the boys enjoyed
it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5t5pzDSqc2k&ab_channel=Urbanist%3AExploringCities
It was time for us to return to the bus.  We checked the weather, sure
enough there's an Arctic cold front heading our way. I agreed with Kori
that it was best to try to make another hundred miles.

   Well, I have to keep reminding the boys that "it's the journey" and
along our trail things would most likely happen, some good, some not so
good, but to always remember it's our adventure.

 We made it just over a hundred miles to Richmond, Virginia and spent the
night in the parking lot of a McDonalds.  They were so kind to let us park
... obviously we ordered burgers n stuff, as the boys called it, and then
we had breakfast there as well.  Not much to say ... it was just McDonalds.

   It was late and the chill was beginning to make its way into our bones.
I turned the heat on and we all decided to call it a night.  Before Kori
and I had made it back to our bedroom Justin and Kyle were asleep with
Penny and Silence curled up next to them.  Ethan and Keith were sitting
side by side looking at maps.  I noticed Keith's hand looking for something
in Ethan's lap.  I don't think it was very `hard' to find, I bet they had
fun.

   It felt so good to crawl into bed with Kori beside me.  I was just about
to sleep when . . . . "Jake are you awake?" it could only be Kori asking
that question.  I answered `Yes Kori' . . . . It only took an hour for us
to go through some very important details and agree on what we wanted.

   I don't know sometimes how Kori knows just what I'm thinking about, but
he does.  We talked about Yale, the house and property in New Haven, the
farm, and each of the boys.  What we found was that our thoughts for the
immediate future and looking further ahead were much the same.

   Kori and I decided to call Henry and our attorney in the morning to make
some arrangements or at least begin the process.  We want the boys to
always have the farm as their place to call home.  So that is our first
concern. We agreed that it is not to be sold and will be in their names.

   With our commitment to the University secure for the next 4 years, we
have decided to sell the house and all our properties in New Haven.  All
income from those properties will be divided equally among the four boys,
and given to each in investments.  In this way should anything happen to
either Kori or myself the boys should be well off.  I think my Grandfather
would agree.  He was very smart and would be proud of our decision.

   I think Kori and I drifted off in a very sound sleep.  I can hear
voices. Laughter and I know Justin is up to no good.  You just can't
mistake his laugh.  McDonalds provided breakfast.  It wasn't a gift we paid
for it.  Then it was a short family meeting.  Now we know the plan, and I
am so happy the boys decided to let Kori and I know about it. ... So
obvious who is directing this adventure ... just what Kori and I wanted.

   We will continue down the East Coast all the way to Key West with a
brief stop here and there if something looks interesting like Everglades
National Park.  We have all agreed that this is an adventure in many ways
but, history, and geography will play the most critical role.

   On an adventure like this, frequent stops are a must.  We decided, after
yesterday's epic drive, that we will stop every 3 hours, even if it is only
at a rest area for 15-20 minutes.  If Kori has been driving then I'll take
over and if I've been driving, we'll let Kyle drive. ... OMG, just the
thought of it.

   "Dad, Dad, we don't know where we're going do we?" ... ... Nope Keith we
don't.  We just know our first big stop is Everglades National Park as you
guys decided will be our first point of interest, then Key West.
Interesting how every so often Keith or Ethan will call Kori or me `Dad'

   It was Kori's turn to drive.  Justin and Kyle were playing a game and
Keith and Ethan were reading.  I was sitting back looking at them as my
mind began to wander.  As I looked at Ethan, I could see Kori at that
age. Looking at each of the boys I began to think back to where this all
started.

I closed my eyes ... I could see that day so very long ago........

   "It was a warm spring Saturday in northwestern Massachusetts.  April can
be either warm or snowy but today was sunny and warm.  I was just starting
to work my young horse when I spotted a young boy hanging on the fence.


   Finley my two-year-old stallion was full of it after the long winter and
he wanted to have more fun than work.  As Finley jumped and kicked, I
noticed the boy was gone ... What . . . no he wasn't he had just moved
closer to me about fifteen feet to my right.


   I first noticed his curly blond hair; you know kind of messy but cute.
I smiled at him, gave a quick wave, and he smiled and gave me thumbs up.  I
guess he approved of my training methods.


   The workout continued another forty minutes.  In that time the boy had
moved even closer to me.  I think he was about eight feet to my right.  I
could see he was about 11 or 12, a really cute kid.  I finished working
Finley and started to walk to the barn.  I noticed I had company.  Finley
now in his stall I walked to the door to find my friend watching my every
move.


   Hi, I noticed you watching me work Finley, do you like horses?  I asked.
He replied . . . "yep ... someday I would like to have a horse like yours
he's so beautiful" ...  I said . . . well Ashfield is perfect for horses
and I bet you'll have your own someday.  I'm Jake what is your name?  He
answered ... "my name is Kori it's spelled K-o-r-i, not Cory" ... Wow
that's a great name.  How old are you Kori, 12 I bet, and you sure have
some curly hair, it's really nice, looks great on you!


   With a huge smile Kori said . . . . "Thanks, I am 11 almost 12 my
birthday is in June. Is it ok for me to watch you when you work Finley?  It
sure was fun to see him when he was bucking and jumping.  Can I call you
Jake or Mr. Jake, is it ok for me to like `hang around' ... is there
anything I can help with, is it ok for me to give Finley an apple?"
. . . (all that was in one breath and excited.) ... Hey Kori, slow down
take a breath, you're a little wound up.  Call me Jake, and yes you can
watch me work Finley anytime, and yes, it's ok for you to give Finley an
apple......"

   That is where and how this story started, and how the series called "A
Neglected Boy" began.  I never knew that when I posted that first chapter
on Sunday, October 7, 2018, it would continue to some 180 chapters later.

   Many of you have been with me from day one, for that, I am so very
thankful, not only have you been with me as my trusted and faithful readers
but also my friends.  As you read the five last paragraphs you were reading
how it all began ... and now those same fine paragraphs also mark the
conclusion of the series.

   It was not an easy decision for me to end the series.  I know with my
taking a position with the National Forest again I would not have the time
to continue "A Neglected Boy series".

   I may, most likely, post again to Nifty.  Here is a hint how you will
know that I have posted something new... In the same section of Nifty you
may see a story titled like ... `The Ashfield Farm' ... or ... `Fun at the
Farm' ... or ... `Justin and Kyle' ... or ...  `Ethan and the Twins' ... or
... `Ashfield Boys' Home' or Ethan at Yellowstone.  I made sure in part 3,
told Keith I gave you a list of Characters who were at the Christmas
Dinner, they may appear again in a `New' story.  Any new story will be a
stand-alone, not a series.

   Again, my sincere thanks for your continued support and friendship!

Stay safe and remember to be kind to others.

Jacob, ... and of course all the crew at "A Neglected Boy"
"don't forget us Dad"  ... Ok rug-rats....................

Your emails are always welcome,
jacoblion@tutanota.com