Reviews from

Jonathan's Story

Viewing comments for Chapter 8 "Peaceful Interlude"
Our fostering journey with a severely disabled boy

28 total reviews 
Comment from Begin Again
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

Each and every one of your family, but especially you and Jonathan deserve so many stars for the road yo've traveled and the patience, love and consideration each of you shared. I understand the part about doing it "alone" ... People offer kind words and moments of help....but the true work lies in the 24/7 that you give to Jonathan and your children too, You ar a marvelous person!
Hugs, Carol

 Comment Written 31-Jan-2024


reply by the author on 01-Feb-2024
    I thank you very much for this super review. Yes, you would indeed understand. It's hard for others to really get it perhaps. Thank you so much for the six stars. I am honoured.
    Wendy
reply by Begin Again on 01-Feb-2024
    Have a blessed day, my friend!
Comment from Rachelle Allen
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Grrr! No sixes left. It seems there have been an abundance of writings that have appealed to me this week! Sorry about that.

You have the most beautiful writing style, Wendy. You syntax just flows like a gorgeous classical melody. But more than just that, your message is SO extremely beautiful. I'm sorry for repeating this, but I think it every time and marvel at it: how you're able to share this story without even once coming across as "Aren't I something?!" astonishes me. Your love for this child and your family's love for him, is as heartwarming as life gets. It's so fun to learn along with you the activities that bring him joy. (of course speed would be among them! I swear it's on the Y-chromosome!) And what an interesting vignette about his relative in the grocery store. Oy.

I also find it interesting that in your country, too, DSS (DOCS for you) is not what anyone in his or her right mind could call a well-oiled machine. And that is SOOO very wrong, since it deals with the MOST vulnerable members of our society, right? These people should receive so much money for this job, yet they are the worst-paid government workers we have. Them and the military receive squat yet do the most for our country. (Oy. Do NOT get me started!) But, as I say, I find it fascinating that it's the same way in your country, as well. I guess ingratitude is universal.

Another beautiful chapter in this story, Wendy. I continue to absolutely love it and look forward to each new installment. xo

 Comment Written 31-Jan-2024


reply by the author on 01-Feb-2024
    Thank you so very much for this amazing and supportive review. I can't wait to see your reaction when certain things start unfolding in three or four chapters' time. I am almost ready to write them, and already I am having sleepless nights just thinking about them, reliving the horror. But I'll say what needs to be said ....it's the right time. Thank you again. I appreciate you a lot.
    Wendy
reply by Rachelle Allen on 01-Feb-2024
    Looking very much forward to it. I think you're a supreme storyteller, Wendy, so I know I'll "get the goods" at the perfect time.
Comment from Katherine M. (k-11)
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

I never realized you had such a complex life when your children were younger. It must have been extremely demanding. It is now that you can have some "you" time. Make the most of it, and enjoy your writing as well as the family. kay

 Comment Written 31-Jan-2024


reply by the author on 01-Feb-2024
    Thank you very much Kay. I think I am still waiting for some me time, life is still very busy. Thanks so much for reviewing.
    Wendy
Comment from Tom Horonzy
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

If only for the intro vewrse in this edition you are deserving of a bonus star, and for your willingness to take on a challenge I would give you a bucket full of bonuses.
Is this the End?

 Comment Written 31-Jan-2024


reply by the author on 31-Jan-2024
    We are drawing towards the end of the third movement, with two mre movements to follow. Most of the drama has not yet happened - this is setting the scene for what will come. Thank you for reviewing. I'm so glad you are still enjoying the story. Thanks too for the amazing six stars, greatly valued.
    Wendy
    Wendy
Comment from patcelaw
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

This was a delightful chapter in your book, and I enjoyed listening to it very much. I especially like the opening of the story when you compare life with Jonathan, as that of a symphony and the different movements in a symphony. That was a brilliant move. This story just was so compelling to me. I just could not get over the ability that your children had, and showing their compassion to Jonathan. so much of the story needs to be told, and people need to understand that people who are disabled in any fashion are not unworthy, but they're all worthy of God's attention. And I believe that God was using you to give that attention to Jonathan, as well as using your children to do the same. Patricia .

 Comment Written 31-Jan-2024


reply by the author on 01-Feb-2024
    Thank you Patficia, and I believe that too. Yes, this year I have felt very compelled to write his life story. I appreciate your lovely review.
    Wendy
Comment from Mrs. KT
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

So profoundly moving, Wendy.
it's not about the stars, although I surely wish I had six in my quiver to affix to this exceptionally well-presented chapter.
You present Jonathan with clarity and compassion, and I am honored that you are sharing his story... and yours... with us.

Thank you for sharing, Wendy
Again, profoundly moving...

diane

 Comment Written 31-Jan-2024


reply by the author on 01-Feb-2024
    I thank you so much for this lovely review. Very much valued.
    Wendy
Comment from Dolly'sPoems
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

I expect that no one quite knows Jonothan the way you and your family know him. How he has been accepted and takes part in family outings. And you have learned from Jonothan as much as you have taught him. He has been part of your own children's upbringing. It is difficult for outsiders to assist his progress as it is you who have seen his energy, his contentment and how he reacts to everything and an occasional assessment by the authorities would not really be of much help to them. They will be able to note his general well-being though. You have given Jonothan a life when things for him could have been rather grim. A wonderful post Wendy, love Dolly x

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 Comment Written 31-Jan-2024


reply by the author on 01-Feb-2024
    Thank you for your comprehensive and astute review. Much valued.
    Wendy
Comment from Wayne Fowler
Excellent
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Well written (of course).
This was absolutely, truly, a family adoption, an entire family commitment.
Depending on the character within your natural children, the outcome could have gone either way, positive or negative. More than likely, extreme either way. Your kids are obviously made of 'strong stuff'.

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 Comment Written 31-Jan-2024


reply by the author on 01-Feb-2024
    Thank you very much Wayne. Astute review.
    Wendy