Welcome back, dear friends!
We almost didn't get this one out on time. A severe thunder storm this week knocked out our internet for two days so if our thoughts are a bit scrambled it's because we wrote, edited and published this all in a day! So bear with us and let us know what you think about the further developments!
Grace's Thoughts
This set of chapters makes me so happy! Valancy has chosen a path of meaning. I'm not sure what to think of Roaring Abel and can sympathize a bit with her family, but I think she is doing the right thing. Poor Cissy Gay! While I was reading the whole tale of her demise, I got so mad at those flapping old biddies,
but then I had to stop and think of my own actions in the past and was quite humbled. It's interesting how many wake up calls to our own behavior are in this book.
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I love how chapter 15 opens:
'"Let us be calm," said Uncle Benjamin. "Let us be perfectly calm."
"Calm!" Mrs. Frederick wrung her hands. "How can I be calm--how could anybody be calm under such a disgrace as this?"'
and Cousin Stickles wailing about who will rub her back and Valancy not taking her flannel petticoat is just hilarious!
I love the description of Roaring Abel's house, it sounds so whimsical! Not a Blue Castle, but a Lavender Cottage? I'm so glad Valancy took her first step into the real world. It's scary stepping into the unknown, but I know it will do her and Cissy so much good.
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Katherine's Thoughts
Yay, things are happening! I'm so glad Valancy has taken this job of caring for Cissy and keeping house!
How sad to think everyone is abandoning any goodwill towards Cissy, especially now that she is dying! Valancy's new job of caring for Cissy will do her a world of good! Now she has a purpose, direction, and a fresh set of surroundings!
Roaring Abel is quite the character. I can understand why everyone wants to steer clear of his path, but still despite his faults, I like him. He'll be a good support to Valancy and give her some confidence.
I think it's amusing how Uncle James' confidence in Dr. Marsh's abilities suddenly vanished when he admitted that Valancy hadn't done anything worth the title of lunacy.
And of course, the hysterics of the Stirlings continue......I think it's so funny how they have their little family meetings and console and chide each other! I do have some sympathy for the them as Valancy is behaving rather disrespectfully. Hopefully, in the end all will be put to rights on both the Stirling's and Valancy's side.
How convenient that Barney has been known to drop by Cissy and Roaring Abel's home.......the very place Valancy is going to work.......I suppose we may see more of him!
How nice!
Your Thoughts
What sayest thou? What dost thou thinkest upon the past chapters?? Do tell all!
See you next week!
Katherine & Grace
