Thanks Everybody

Just wanted to put up a short post to thank everybody for all your kind words on Monday's post.

Matt starts college next week and that ordeal is more time consuming that you would think!

We've also been going through a lot of stress lately and just need time to work some things out, but we're getting there.

We're going to take the rest of the week off from the blog and concentrate on talking through some issues that need to be dealt with. We're okay and know we'll come out on the other end in a much better place.

All your support means a lot to us, just knowing you're there.

We'll Be Back Shortly

First of all, thanks to everyone who expressed concern in the last post about the hurricane headed our way. "Ms. Irene" was downgraded to a Tropical Storm when she finally made her presence in our area yesterday. There were lots of trees and limbs down and lots of people lost power. Both of us are okay. Thanks again for your concerns.

Secondly, we've decided to take some time off from posting for a while to deal with some issues that are going on. We don't want to go into details right now. We hope you understand.

The Hurricane

Well, looks like Hurricane Irene is headed up the East Coast of the U.S. I hope everybody in her way takes precautions and stays safe.

They're saying, for now, that by the time it reaches New England (on Sunday), it might be downgraded to a Category 1, which is the less severe version.

Anyway we're expected to get strong winds and lots of rain. They say there might be some power outages and trees down, etc., so we might not be posting for a few days. Regardless of how severe it is, I'm sure there's going to be lots of work in cleaning everything up.

We'll be back when we can. Take care.

Thank You From My Heart ♥

I wish I could respond personally to everybody who wrote something to me about running into that guy I was writing about earlier this week.

I just want you, each one of you, to know that I've read and reread everything you've written. In addition to Brad's and my friend's support, all of you helped me sort through everything I did and was feeling. I feel in a much better place with it all now.

I really do feel like something good is going to come out of all this. I still have some anger inside about what that guy did, but confronting him somehow seemed to help. I'm in a much better place with it now.

You support means more to me than you will ever know. I love all of you and send you back the love, concern and support you've given me. ♥

Our Love: Ain't No Mountain High Enough

Yesterday, Matt, you ended your post with, "The other thing I'm sure of, is that thing we call "love" really does exist in the world. I honestly, without exaggeration, don't think I could live without it."

Matt. My Love. Our Love.

What More is There?

I love you,

Brad

Cocksuckers and Hauntings From the Past, part 2

So, picking up where I left off yesterday.....

Then I got things started by asking him, "So, you know why we're here, right?" That's when the shit hit the fan.

We were on the park bench, and Asshole Boy was leaning over with his elbows on his knees and his hands over his face. I was sitting straight up with my back against the bench, both feet planted firmly on the ground. My hands were unfolded and free so I could be ready for anything.

He still didn't say anything, so I said it a little louder, "So, you know why we're here, right?"

Asshole Boy (AB): "Yeah."

Me: "So, you tell me why."

AB: "Cause of what I did."

Me: "Come on, asshole. You can do better than that."

AB: "What do you want from me?"

Me: "I want you to spell it out. I want you to tell me what you did to me."

AB: "You know what happened."

Me: "You're damn right about that. I was there, remember? So why don't you give up your fucking attitude with me and spell it out... what you did to me. You even remember it?"

By this time, he sat up straight but still wasn't looking at me.

AB: "Yeah I remember it. I roughed you up."

Me: "Why are you whispering it? I can barely hear you."

AB: "Look. I don't know why I roughed you up. It was stupid. I wish I hadn't done it."

Me: "Man, I'm going to say this once. So you better be paying close attention. Right now I don't give a fuck about how stupid you were. Or whether you wished you hadn't done it. I'm asking you to spell out what you did to me. Then I'm gonna ask you what I looked like after you did what you did."

I don't want to go into all the details of specifically what each of us said. He eventually started to get up but I grabbed his arm and made him sit back down. To his credit he owned up to what he did and spelled it all out.

He was either very afraid of me or he truly felt bad about what he and his buddies did. He was having a hard time getting his words out and I was staring at him the whole time. He was looking straight ahead but he had this "catch" in his throat and I thought he was going to start crying or something.

I asked him again what he remembered I looked like after he and his buddies beat me up. He didn't go into a lot of detail but somehow it helped me to know he still had that image of me on the ground, doubled over, holding my sides, moaning and having a bloody nose.

So we just sat there for a while not saying anything. After a while, on his own, he said something like, "I'm really sorry. I hope you can accept that."

He seemed the most genuine at that moment than he had all night. So I was thinking to myself, What the fuck am I suppose to say to that? It's not like he had stepped on my toes and just said Sorry about that.

I thought about it a while and said something like, "You know, I don't know what to say right now. I've got a lot to think about. I just hope nobody else has had to go through the kind of shit you put me through. I really feel sorry for you."

After a little time had passed, I told him he could go. He just sat there and didn't move. So, I was starting to get up and go back to Brad and our friends and this time he spoke up and mumbled something like, "This might not be the best time to say this, but..." He had been staring straight ahead or at the ground the whole time, but now he turned slightly and looked me head-on.

"... I don't know if Lisa or anybody has told you this, but.... I figured out a while back I was bi."

I just stared back at him and froze up inside. All I said was, "What?"

He told me again and I can't describe what was going through my head at that moment. It's all kind of a jumble now but I remember saying something like, "So, you're a cocksucker, too, huh? Goddamn." For some reason I was starting to get all worked up again, I'm not sure why. Did he think that was somehow suppose to make me feel more sympathetic to him or something?

I just looked straight ahead and started thinking. I put my hands on my face, started shaking my head and then this quiet laugh started coming out. Not a happy laugh, but one of those laughs you have when you witness somebody being pathetic. Maybe it was wrong of me, but that's what happened.

I finally said something like, "You know what? I just need to get away from you. I actually don't want to know anything personal about you. I'm going to get up, go back to my friends and I don't really care what happens to you. I'm outta here."

So I left him sitting there and got back to Brad and our friends. I know I must have looked like I was in a daze or something because Brad just looked at me and grabbed my hand and held on hard. Everybody could tell I didn't want to talk right then about what happened. All I remember was Brad holding onto me tightly and then the two girls and the two guys all hugged me. Right then I broke down crying. Nobody was forcing me to talk. They all knew I just needed some space and time, but I didn't want to be alone.

We all went back to my house and spent about an hour in the backyard talking where I told them everything. It all started spilling out of me and after a while we were all crying. They were all saying such incredible caring things. I just wanted to fold up like a baby and have them take care of me.

They asked if I wanted them to stay with me that night. I thanked them and said no. I just needed to go to sleep.

Brad then said, "Well, I'm not leaving you tonight." He had this solid determined look that was filled with so much love. It was a little bit jarring because I had never seen him look quite like that before. His look was so solid, strong, determined, loving, caring. It's funny, but at that moment I felt like we were just one person. Somehow I knew he understood absolutely everything going on inside me. And this was a new level of love we were having right then. I look back on it now and it was a major turning point for us. It's like you're going this way in your life and then something happens and you're going that way.

So he spent the night and didn't for one second ever stop holding me all night long. He was facing me when I woke up, with his arm on my shoulder and his legs in between mine. He had been looking and smiling at me. That look he had the night before was still there.

We both called work to say we couldn't come in and then spent the whole day together. He knew exactly when I needed to talk and exactly when I needed to say nothing. He took total care of me all day.

I'm still trying to sort out everything that happened. One thing I'm sure of is that I'm stronger inside than I thought I was. I feel like I finally put something to rest. Let sleeping dogs lie. I've still got more to think about, but somehow, in some way, I'm different now.

And Brad? Love really does change. It's not the same now as it's been before. There's something deeper and more real than we've known. You, my sweetheart, my love, are in my life for good. That's all that matters right now.

The other thing I'm sure of, is that thing we call "love" really does exist in the world. I honestly, without exaggeration, don't think I could live without it.

Cocksuckers and Hauntings From the Past, part 1

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

That's what I heard in my head last Wednesday night in an ice cream parlor while I was close to orgasm while eating four huge scoops of Chocolate Mocha Chip ice cream with about four inches of rich foamy whipped cream on top.

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

Sitting on my right was Brad, who also looked close to orgasm while he was eating his four huge scoops of Coffee Almond Fudge ice cream with about four inches of rich foamy whipped cream on top.

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

There were four other people at our table. My best friend, Tyler, and his girlfriend. Brad's best friend, Amanda, and her boyfriend.

The heat and humidity had gotten to us all so we met at this really cool ice cream parlor that's been there since 1969. It's actually a huge ice cream / family style restaurant and it was totally packed, as usual, with a line of people going all the way outside waiting to get in.

So we were all sitting there having the best time, joking about what an "ice cream induced" orgasm would be like, and I look up and across the dining room, I see this guy I went to high school with. Not just "any" guy, but the Asshole Boy who organized a couple of his friends to jump me behind the school when I was 16 and beat the shit out of me, calling me all kinds of choice names like faggot, cocksucker, pervert, etc. He's the guy I wrote about on July 15, 2011.

He was sitting at a booth with this girl I also went to school with. Her name is Lisa and she was out at school as a lesbian. So, what the hell is Lisa doing sitting across the booth from Asshole Boy? I actually met her when I joined the Gay-Straight Alliance after getting gay bashed. I never really got to know her really well. I was actually a little intimidated by her. She had this attitude that the lesbians really didn't have much in common with the gay guys, or people who were bi, so she only would really have anything to do with the other girls. Oh well, to each his or her own, I guess.

But, what was this asshole gay-basher doing sitting and socializing with this lesbian? They seemed to be laughing and having a pretty good old time together.

I don't know exactly how to describe what happened to me next. I just zoned out and noticed I was having all kinds of trouble breathing. I actually started sweating (and we were in this really comfortable air-conditioned ice cream parlor).

It was only like about 5 seconds after noticing him that I found my body getting up from the table where we were. Brad asked what I was doing and I sorta came back from the zone I was in and sat back down.

I told everybody who the guy was, and they all looked over at him. I then just said I was going over there to talk to him.

Well, they all said I should just sit down for a few minutes and map out how to handle it. I sat back down and, to be honest, couldn't take in what Brad and everybody was saying to me. Every second I was getting madder and madder. Actually it was more like rage I was feeling, not mad.

Then the rage went into fury and I swear I was ready to walk over there and grab this asshole into standing up so I could knock the shit out of him. Never mind we were in a restaurant with about 75 or 80 other people. Never mind that I might get physically hurt all over again. Never mind I might get arrested. Never mind nothing! All I wanted to do at that precise moment was get revenge.

From what I could see, Asshole Boy hadn't grown much physically from when he was in high school. I knew I was bigger physically than him and probably in a lot better shape. In the span of about 15 seconds I was playing out this whole revenge fantasy. My focus was getting narrower and narrower. All I wanted was to pay him back for what he did to me when I was 16.

Somehow, Brad was able to get through to me. He was squarely facing me and had his hands on my arms, holding me tight. All I remember him saying was my name, over and over, trying to get my attention refocused.

Amanda's boyfriend had no clue what all this was about and he jumped in and tried to get me to tell him the story of what happened. I guess he figured if he could divert my attention, then I might start thinking rationally again.

What everybody said helped get me back to a good place. I was thinking more rationally again and was starting to get my breath back and chill down again.

I also started remembering what my older brother told me after I had been attacked by Asshole Boy and his gang. I remembered him giving me all kinds of support and advice at the time. My parents had gone to the school and reported it to the principal and then went to Asshole Boy's parents to talk to them. My brother really stuck by me for the longest time afterwards.

After weeks passed and my bruises healed, I was feeling calmer, mainly because I knew I was loved and cared for. When I would talk about revenge against Asshole Boy, I remember my brother holding me really tight and saying such incredibly loving things to me. He also advised me to...

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

But here I was all these years later and it all came rushing back toward me. I felt like I had to do something. It was the first time I had run into him after all these years and I didn't want to loose this opportunity to at least say something.

I decided to go over to his booth and I had it all worked out what I wanted to say and do. I told Brad and everybody to keep an eye on what was about to happen. If necessary, I asked them to head over to his booth to back me up.

Somehow I wasn't the least bit afraid this time.

I walked over to the booth, leaned over, stretched both my arms straight out and planted my palms down on the table and looked Asshole Boy straight in the eyes. I locked my stare on his eyes, but said hello to Lisa. I got no response from her. I guess she was still in her "no gender mixing" stance. Oh well.

Then I said to Asshole Boy, "How you doin', man? You remember me, don't you?" He stared back at me, then looked down at his plate.

I said, "Surely you haven't forgotten that nickname you gave me in high school, have you? Let me see..... Oh yeah, 'Cocksucker' is what you called me. That ring any bells, sweetheart?"

He started to slide out of the booth but it was one of those booths with a barrier on one side, and I was blocking the other side. I quickly moved in and sat down next to him and by moving in with a of of determination, I was able to shove him back in. I didn't take my eyes off him. Lisa was saying nothing.

I said to him, "So, I think we have a score to settle. And whether you like it or not, it's going to be settled tonight." He still said nothing.

All I said next was, "We're going to get out of this booth -- right now -- and the two of us walk out of here. There's a group of my friends sitting right over there who are going to follow us, too. They're not leaving my side until this score is settled in full."

I looked over at Lisa and said, "Thanks, honey, for taking care of the bill here. Real nice seeing you again."

Brad met me at the door and I told him me and Asshole Boy were taking a walk down the street to the park to talk. He said they would follow and would stay close by.

While we were walking to the park I noticed that he was still that scrawny little kid he was in high school. That's probably why he needed help from his Asshole Buddies to hold me down while he kicked the shit out of me. Now I easily stood 3 or 4 inches taller than him and I was definitely in better physical shape.

So we get to the park and I see Brad and the others a short distance away. Me and Asshole Boy sat down on the park bench and didn't say anything for a few minutes. I admit I was hoping he was sweating and in a panic inside while we were just sitting there all quiet.

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

Those words came back to me while we were sitting there. Well, all I can say is that the "sleeping dog" was not asleep anymore. I couldn't just walk away. 

Then I got things started by asking him, "So, you know why we're here, right?" That's when the shit hit the fan.

It's easy to tell about something after it's over, but while it's happening, it's all just one thing after another flipping past your eyes.

I'm still trying to get my bearings back after what happened. This was not an easy night -- for him or me. The dog was awake. The dog was barking. There were certain things I knew I had to say and do. Some I regret. Some I'm glad about.

Right this exact moment, while I'm writing this, I need to calm myself down. I'll try to finish this tomorrow.

Sex, Whilrwinds and Love

A few days ago, Matty wrote about feeling he was in a "whirlwind" due to all the major changes happening lately. Starting college. Moving in together. Job changes, etc.

He said, "The biggest anchor I have right now is Brad. He's such a calming presence in my life. Sometimes when we're not even together, I can just bring him up in my head and I calm down."

Well, that was Matty being his usual sweet self. I don't doubt for a second that he literally means it. I know Matty. He doesn't say things like that as a cliché. I've learned I can take his words to the bank. They're as solid as gold.

One of the things I love about being in love is that we can be there for each other, no matter what. In some ways I feel like we've known each other for an eternity. And then in some ways I feel like we just met and are still discovering the beauty and wonder and excitement of each other.

After we first met, we heard stuff from friends like, "Yeah, the beginning part of any relationship is always exciting, but then you 'settle into things' and you become just like most couples and 'live in your routines.'"

Well, then why are we still feeling excited about each other after a year and three months? Why do we still feel excited every time we have sex? Why do we still feel excited to see each other every day? Why do we still get all tingly when one of us calls the other during the day to say something simple like, "Hey, honey. Whatcha doin'?"

And what is this thing about "living in your routines"? Sure, we have our routines. They're very precious to us actually. We have certain pet names we call each other. We have certain ways of being funny and humorous with each other that some people just roll their eyes at. They don't understand all the meaning and love that is going back and forth between us when we do that.

And the sex? Well, don't put that is the "routine" category. Not by a long shot! You hear people say that sex changes it's meaning over time. That you tend to have less and less sex over time. Well, if that's true, then shoot me now. We're still discovering new ways to enjoy each other's body. 

Sometime the sex is just pure fun. No special, deep or mystical meaning involved. Just pure fun and play. Lots of laughing, sighing, giggling, moaning. Being naked with each other. Still being excited like it's the first time. Pure and natural play. Being amazed that we discover things about each other's body we never realized before. Being able to see in each other's eyes how beautiful we each are.

Sometime the sex goes from being pure fun into something entirely different. Like what happened earlier this week when Matty was feeling in such a whirlwind. When this happens, it catches us off guard. Takes our breath away. We're there with each other, kissing, cuddling, sucking, tasting, fucking, exploring, cumming, licking, exploring parts of our body and being surprised and startled when we start making all kinds of animal sounds, sounds we've never heard before, sounds from some place deep inside us that feel almost scary or sacred or forbidden.

All that happened Monday night when we had sex. The "whirlwind" Matty had been feeling -- that "stress whirlwind" -- went away and we got caught up in another kind of "whirlwind." That whirlwind that happens when you loose your breath and are caught off guard and time literally seems to stop and it's just the two of you together. Holding each other. Hands all over each other. Sweating that type of sweat that's kind of musky and sweet all at the same time. Hoping that moment never stops. Knowing you're totally safe. And loved. And adored. And beautiful. And you're one person at that moment. Not two anymore. Just one.

Yeah. I know exactly what Matty meant when he ended his post with, "There's not a doubt in my mind that the love Brad and I have is strong enough to anchor this 'whirlwind' I'm experiencing." That love, my sweet one, is all we need.

Gay Concentration Camp Survivor Dies at 98

I never knew where the "pink triangle" came from until now. Watching this video makes me want to learn more about my history.

The last known gay concentration camp survivor imprisoned because of his sexual orientation has died, according to Germany’s Lesbian and Gay Association.
Rudolf Brazda, who was held at the Buchenwald concentration camp for three years until U.S. forces liberated the camp in 1945, died Wednesday at the age of 98, the Associated Press reports.

In a 2008 interview with the French gay magazine Têtu, Brazda spoke for the first time of his imprisonment since he made remarks at the dedication ceremony of a Berlin memorial to gay victims of the Third Reich. “The way Nazis treated the ‘pink triangles’ is unspeakable,” Brazda said, referring to the emblem gays were forced to wear. “They had absolutely no mercy.”

After he was freed from Buchenwald, Brazda moved to France, where he lived for 35 years with his partner, who died in 2002.

From: Advocate.com (August 4, 2011).

A Whirlwind

A whirlwind.

That's what I feel like I'm in the middle of lately.

I shouldn't be surprised. But I am.

I feel like this big gust of wind has surrounded me and is sucking me up, up, up. It's that feeling I get when so many things are happening all at once and I don't get to pick any one thing to focus on to slow things down.

I know everything is going to work out. I've been through these things before and I always land on my feet. But, man, oh man, it feels like something I can't quite grasp or grab hold of.

Back when I was in high school I use to occasionally see this school counselor who helped me with all my attention problems. He taught me these really cool relaxation techniques where I would concentrate on my breathing and visualize being in some special calming setting.

He also got me interested in writing about things that either bothered me or got me overwhelmed. I found that when I would just make a list of issues bothering me everything started feeling more organized.

I made a list last night of everything on my mind that feels out of control. After doing that, I showed it to Brad and he helped me reduce it down to just two things. Imagine that! Two things!

The first has to do with starting college next month. The second has to do with us moving in together.

After graduating from high school last year, I've been working full-time to save some money. It was one of the best decisions I've made as far as my future is concerned. By watching how I spent the money I earned, I've actually exceeded the goal I set for myself. That, I have to say, is something I'm really proud of.

Plus, I had no idea I would discover something about myself I had never known. I've learned that I have this skill for working with my hands to build things I can be really proud of. I've gotten some really good training at the construction company where I work and discovered that refinishing old houses is something I'm pretty good at.

Since I'll be going to school full-time, I'm going to have to give up all the hours I was working there. I have to say, I'll really miss that. My boss has agreed to work out this schedule where I can still have some hours part-time, so that makes me really happy.

The second thing going on is the happy fact that Brad and I will be moving in together! I am so psyched about that I can hardly contain myself. This will be the first time I've not lived with my family, so setting up a home with Brad is a totally new experience.

So, this shouldn't be a source of stress, right? Well, one of the things that high school counselor told me was that "Stress is stress. Positive or negative, it's still stress." Well, in this case, it's both positive and negative.

Positive, because we're finally going to be living together. I mean, really! How exciting is that?!!!

Negative, because it's happening the first of October (school starts in September) and we've got to manage how to pack, move and unpack just a few weeks after school is starting. I've got to stay on top of my studies and I'm worried that I'm going to discover that I'm out of practice with that routine since I've been out of school for a year.

The biggest anchor I have right now is Brad. He's such a calming presence in my life. Sometimes when we're not even together, I can just bring him up in my head and I calm down.

So, will I make it out of the whirlwind? Will I land on my feet? It doesn't feel like it when I'm spinning around like this. I have to remember that what I'm feeling in a particular moment is not always a good gauge of the outcome (again, more of my high school counselor's words).

And this time I have one thing in my life I've never had before. I'm going through all this with the love of my life.

Yeah, I'm just nineteen. Yeah, I've never been in love with a capital "L" before. Yeah, lots of major things are happening that I've never experienced before.

But one thing I know is real. And solid. And dependable. And hopeful. There's not a doubt in my mind that the love Brad and I have is strong enough to anchor this "whirlwind" I'm experiencing.

It's sort of like what I've learned from work this past year. You have to have a solid foundation to build a house or anything. I know the foundation we've created for ourselves is solid. We've used good material and it's been stress-tested. And you know what? We're still standing.

If I step back and look at what we've done, it's the one thing in my life so far I'm proudest of.

Catching Some Rays

Man, oh man! Summer's going by so fast! Brad and I are headed to the beach for a little R & R before everything starts getting crazy around here!

I've got to buy some new clothes before school starts, which I totally hate doing (shopping, that is!). Thankfully, Brad is in his element when he's in a favorite clothing store with plastic in his hand. He goes into what I've been calling his "Double B" mood: "Bossy Brad." I mean the boy really, really sees shopping as his Mission from God! "Here Matt, go try these on and come out so I can see." "Turn around, Matt."  "Nope. Won't do. Go try these on." And on, and on, and on it goes.

When it's all over, I'm so worn out that the only thing I'm thinking about is a little lovin'. Then it's my time for a little "bossing": "Come here Brad. Lay down next to me." "Mmmmmmm, take your shirt off." And on, and on, and on it goes.

But today, we're headed to the beach! The weather's perfect the whole weekend and I gotta check out any new styles in Speedos! I tell Brad this is my idea of "shopping."

So, in celebration of me getting to do my kind of "shopping," here's a sample of some things I'm loking for (Thanks to Thorny for sending me the one on the far left):

Silence is an Injustice

Thanks to Debbie (the same wonderful person who made that video slideshow we posted back on August 5) for sending us this segment from the ABC television show, What Would You Do? If you have about 7 minutes, this is well worth watching.

I especially liked what one person said when the "waitress" was hassling the lesbian parents: "Silence in an injustice." Oh, and also the man who wrote them a note. That had me in tears.

It's Hard!

I'm posting this a little early today since I need a couple of gallons of coffee before I head off to work. Brad and I were up very, very late last night (well, actually, this morning) celebrating his news that he will be able to start his college career next month with the one course they offered him as a "provisional" student.

The title of my post today is a cute little follow-up to the title of Brad's post yesterday. Last night we were both so excited with the news that he'll be able to start his college career next month that we couldn't stop talking about our future together. It made us think about all the positive news we've gotten lately and how everything seems to be lining up for us better than we could have dreamed.

Sometime during our celebration last night, I said something like, "It's hard to believe this is all happening." Then we started speeding ahead to everything we wanted to do in our future. My mind started revving like it does and Brad got caught up in all the excitement, too.

Then, in a split second, something happened to my mind and I didn't want to talk anymore about the future. I mean there we were together, right then, right now and I started feeling this incredible love for him.

My hands went to his face and pulled his cheeks closer to my face. We just stared into each other's eyes for a while. My throat started doing this thing it does when I'm overcome with emotion and it won't let any words come out. He looked back at me and just said, "You're crying."

I hadn't even realized I was crying, but him saying that released everything I was feeling for him. We just leaned into each other, my hand caressing his hair and his hand gently making the rounds of my back. We both were crying at this point, just soft, gentle tears. Swaying back and forth. No need for words. Everything that love is was flowing from my body to his and from his body back to mine.

I swear it was like we were making love for the very first time. Everything we did seemed completely new, almost like we were inventing it.

I was finally able to get my throat and mouth to cooperate and before we released our bodies, I looked at him and said, "Whatever happens in our future will happen. But right now, this is the only real thing we have. Right here. Right now."

Sure, "it's hard" taking everything in... everything that's happening. But one sure thing that's not hard is being in love with the most beautiful man in the world. My man. Our love. Not hard at all.

I'm In!

"I'm in!" Yes, that's exactly what I said the first time I spread Matty's adorable, ripe, sexy ass cheeks and slowly -- ever so slowly -- entered a realm I'd never discovered before.

Before I get off track and head down another story, let me readjust matters and get to the point of this post!

"I'm in!" is what I yelled out loud this morning after getting a call from the Admissions Office at the college where I was accepted on a "provisional admissions status" starting in September!

If you remember, the Director of Admissions said it was too late for full admission to the Fall term, but they were considering me for the Winter Term in January. She told me at that time that I might be able to enroll in one or two courses this September on a "provisional" basis if I could find some that had openings and if the Prof approved.

Well, the person who called this morning said there was one course on the Freshman level I could take, if I was still interested. (still interested?!!) Before he could even tell me the details, I just blurted out, "Absolutely! That sounds great! Thank you!"

He said the course was something called "Principles in Sociology." He then started running off all kinds of information about the course and paperwork I have to turn in and what steps I have to take next, etc. He was very patient with me while I got him to back up and go over all the essentials again. I think I now have "writer's cramp" after scribbling down everything he was saying.

So, I headed over to the college website and found the course. I don't know if I would have necessarily selected this particular course if I had a voice in the matter, but, hey..... I'm in! The course description starts off:

"An introduction to the major theories and basic principles of sociological analysis. Subjects include methods of social research and investigation; role of individuals in groups, organizations, and society..."    

Sounds a little boring to me, but, hey, it's just one course, and who know? Maybe I'll decide to become a Sociologist or something!

All I know is that I'll actually be taking a college-level course and it will be at the same school where Matty is going and at the school where I hope to get full admission status in January!!!

So, I called Matty to tell him and he started yelling the exact same thing he yelled that night I mentioned in the first sentence above: "Oh, God! Yes! That's great, baby!"

I took the day off from work cause I know I'd be dropping trays and food and screwing up orders. They'd probably send me home anyway!

So, I'm going to spend the day getting all the paperwork done and everything else the admissions guy said I had to do. Then maybe I'll run it all out to the school in person.

Matty said he wanted to plan all kinds of celebration tonight after he gets off from work. I don't know what he has in mind, but I know one (or both) of us will end the night with lots of, "Oh, God! Yes! That's great, baby!"

YAY! I'm in!

Cumming Too Soon or Right on Time?

Remember that couple we met recently, the one Matt wrote about (I just checked and it was July 28 he wrote about them)? This is the couple who are in their mid-twenties and we've become really good friends with them. We'll probably be writing more about them as we go along, so we decided to refer to them as Chris and Tom.

In addition to becoming friends, they're almost like role models for us on how to build a relationship. Well, they invited Matt and I go out dancing with them this weekend to celebrate everything that's been happening! They have two really close friends in Providence, Rhode Island, this couple who have been together for 25 years! The plan was for all of us to go out dancing Saturday night, spend the night with their friends and then head back to Boston late Sunday afternoon.

So, we packed our bags for a road trip down to Rhode Island (it's about an hours drive from Boston). Chris and Tom did the driving and made it an all-expense paid trip for us to celebrate Matt starting college next month, me possibly taking a course or two along with him, me possibly starting college full-time in January and to celebrate Matt and I moving in together the first of October!

What a blast it was to get all dressed up for a night of dancing. Since the legal drinking age is 21, they had to check our ID's at the door and then made us put on these yellow wrist bands that clearly identified us as under 21! We hadn't planned on doing any drinking anyway, but the bouncer really hot bear at the door wanted to make sure the bartenders didn't sell us anything we shouldn't have.

But what a total rush to get out on the dance floor with Matt. I mean being surrounded by all these really hot guys and dancing with the love of my life! I know that might sound mushy, but it really, really was a rush! The only mistake I made was to wear these rather tight black jeans, with the emphasis on tight. Of all my jeans, Matt likes them best. He says "they highlight your assets." The mistake in wearing them was that I seemed to have a permanent hard-on the whole time and had to constantly adjust matters. Matt was grinning the whole time, but I got so self-conscious thinking everybody on the dance floor -- and bar -- was watching me! After a while, I just forgot about it and had a blast.

At one point Chris and Tom joined us in dancing and then their two friends also came on the floor. It was so sweet that all four of them sorta surrounded us while we're dancing, with me and Matt in the middle.

But, I gotta tell you, I don't think I have been hornier than I was that night. It almost was a little overwhelming. I can't begin to tell you all the fantasies I was having. Hey, maybe I'm an exhibitionist after all! Who would've known??

So, after the dancing, Chris and Tom drove us back to their friend's house where we were going to spend the night. Matt and I were in the back seat and we couldn't keep our hands off each other. Chris and Tom were both talking to each other and us, but Matt and I were doing a lot of "talking" to each other with our hands.

We were trying not to be conspicuous, but at one point, while Matt was rubbing my hard-on, my legs stiffened, I stopped breathing, my eyes closed and I fought like hell to keep from making that guttural sound that finds its way out of my mouth when I orgasm! That's right, ladies and gentlemen. I fuckin creamed my pants -- and the merchandise was not even out of the package! And wouldn't you know it, but Chris sorta turned half-way around to ask me something about one of the dance songs they played. Well, I was in no shape to have a little chatty conversation at that point, and, thank God, Matt was staring at me and figured out what was happening. So, he just leans in and and rescues me by saying something cutsie like, "Oh, I think Brad liked that song, didn't you sweetie?" Then he plants this really wet kiss on my face, keeping me from answering!

So, I'm learning all kinds of new things about my body. I saw a porn vid once that showed this guy cumming (or at least orgasming) while he was fully clothed and being wildly caressed by the guy he was with. Damn, but I was hoping to save it for when me and Matt were going to be in bed later.

It's a weird feeling having all this wetness in your underwear while you're wearing tight jeans! I mean, just imagine! But, we were almost to the house and I was then totally happy to have worn black jeans that night because when we got inside I looked down and didn't see any wet spot.

So, after all that dancing, everyone had all worked up a sweat and Matt asked if we could take a shower before going to bed. I needed to get out of that sticky underwear, and fast.  They all turned to look at us and one of them had a huge grin on his face and said, "Uh, well, who wants to go first?" Then he laughed and said, "Just kidding, guys. I'll get you both a towel."

Well, they got us each a towel and wash cloth and told us the shower was outside! Outside? Did we hear that right? Well, they have a home that backs up to this wooded area, which we later learned was some kind of "wilderness reserve." So, the backyard ends right where the wooded area begins. And, since they live a little ways outside the city, the neighbors on either side are a little distance away and there's a huge privacy fence on both sides of the yard. I had never seen an outside shower before, but I found an image that looks similar to what they had----------------------------------------->

Oh man, I had thought dancing had been the highlight of the night. But then there was that little surprise silent explosion in my pants on the way to the house. Then Matt and I were going to be taking a shower together -- outside!

So, need I say more? The other thing I know about my body is that it can produce one, uh, "explosion" after the other if there's this one particular hot guy I know who is close by! So, while we're in the shower, Matt's cleaning me up from the earlier "accident," then you can guess the rest. Sex in an outdoor shower is the ultimate in luxury! I'm gonna definitely see if Matt can put one in our place when we move in together in October.

But, hey, folks, that's not the end of the story. Our "bedroom" was actually the living room with a queen-size sleeper sofa. There's a sliding glass door that opens from that room onto a really nice deck overlooking the backyard and the wooded area. So, when Matt woke me up the next morning (much too early I was thinking), he was dragging me out of bed and leading me by the hand outside to the deck. We just had our underwear on and it had been raining during the night. There was still a light rain falling and Matt got to do something he's been talking about for a long time. He's been wanting to slow dance with me in the rain.

Nobody was up yet, so there we were, all by ourselves, holding each other and actually slow dancing in the rain. And Matt was making up this really sweet, sexy melody and humming it in my ear. I won't go into all the details about what was happening to our bodies -- if you've read this far you get the picture.

About 3o minutes later, everybody had gotten up and we looked over at the sliding glass doors and saw Chris, Tom and their two friends watching us dance, all with huge grins on their faces. We started moving toward them to go inside, and Chris handed us each a towel and a really luxurious housecoat.

We got to take another shower together after breakfast, and later that afternoon it was back to Boston. Matt's back at work today, but I took the day off. With everything that's been happening lately, I think we're "coming" along just fine -- and right on time!

Follow-up to EDGE OF GLORY video

Back on July 29, we posted the Lady Gaga video (Edge of Glory) with a gay twist. We just got an e-mail from one of the producers of the video, and he asked that we share it with you:


Name*:Jason O'Ffill
Email*:rebelwthcause@gmail.com
Subject:The (Gay) Edge of Glory
Message*:Hello All,

My name is Jason O’Ffill. I am the producer/writer/star of “The (Gay) Edge of Glory”. I wanted to personally say thank you to you, for being among the first people to not only post the video; but blog about it as well. It really means the world. In three weeks we have reached 270,000 views. And in all honesty I could never have done it without your help.

The main reason I am writing to you today is, well, I want to really push the video. I have gotten letters from around the world, as far as China and close as Nebraska. All from young people, old people, people. Telling me how a single video showed them that love is amazing. They want to be married. And in a lot of cases, it helped them realize it was okay to be gay.

I want to break the walls we have set up and show the youth of the world that it is okay to be who you are. Cause in the end that is what is important. And while not everyone in this world, gay or straight; wants to be married. We all want to be loved. A basic human need. The positive feeling the video has evoked I want to keep providing. And pushing. If you can help me with this I would greatly appreciate it.

My focus was changed by the responses that I got. And now I want to push the idea that who you are is what you love. At the end of the day, the gym bodies, the clothing, the cars, that will all fade away. What is left is the person. The heart. The soul. That is what is important. That is the edge of glory.

People ask what is real in the video, what is not. It is ALL real for the people that desire it to be. There is a lot of truth on that screen. Let’s continue to show it. The Link is http://youtu.be/be9w4QpQ4Xw.. Please repost it, blog it, link it, Facebook it, tweet it. Let’s send a message. If we can change even one heart we can change the world. We are giving youth hope. Let’s not stop now.

With full thanks, and best regards,

Jason O’Ffill

Premiering Our Own Video!

DRUM ROLL, please..........................................................!

One of followers, Debbie {waving}, produced, directed and sent this video to Brad and I yesterday. We asked her permission to post it here so everyone could enjoy it.

At the bottom of each slide, there's a quote from either myself or Brad which Debbie found from different places in the blog. You can also pause each slide and move at your own pace.

Fantastic job, Debbie! Thank you so much!

And now, please pass the popcorn!

Memory Lane

Brad and I both appreciate all your supportive comments yesterday. It still amazes us that things seem to be falling into place like they are.

After doing all our happy dances this week, I think we can now forgo our exercise routines for a while! What a whirlwind!!

I'm still having all kinds of trouble getting back into my normal sleep pattern. I've overslept a few times and have had to work a little later to make up for missed time at work, but my boss has been very understanding. I just explained what's been happening and promised not to be late again. He's very happy for Brad and I, but, like he said, work is work and I have to be able to  keep up with all my responsibilities (how many times have I heard that all my life?).

Whenever major good things happen in my life, my brain does all kinds of things that make it hard for me to focus. Exercising always helps and I've become a bicycling fanatic over the years. I've also learned a lot of mediation techniques and breathing exercises. But if I'm really keyed up at night, I've found that writing in my journal is one of the best ways to get all my thoughts out of my head and on to paper. I can then tell myself that whatever I'm thinking about will be there in the morning, and I can usually settle down to sleep.

Well, last night I went back in my journey to read what I had written the night of my eighteenth birthday party, the day I also met Brad for the very first time. I rarely let anybody read what I've written, but I was showing Brad the entry for that day. It was the first time he had read it and it brought up all kinds of happy memories for us both. So, I thought I'd share a little bit of it here, a little stroll down memory lane:

May 8. Why can't I fall asleep tonight? It's almost midnight and I should be totally drained. I know it's not the excitement of turning 18, even though that's a big deal. I know it's not the birthday party, which was the best one I've ever had.

Who am I kidding? I know exactly why I can't sleep tonight. I met the most beautiful boy today and I can't stop thinking about him. And I don't want to stop thinking about him.

It's funny but I hope I don't go to sleep tonight. I want to stay up all night remembering everything that happened.

I've seen hot guys before -- plenty of them. Thinking about some of them has kept me awake before, but I usually drift off to sleep after a while.

But this guy I met today -- his name is BRAD -- is different somehow. I can't get him out of my mind. I don't want to go to sleep because I'll start dreaming about other things and if I stay awake, then I can keep thinking about him. Remembering his lips, his eyes, his shy smile -- that adorable way he would just slightly tilt his head when I was talking to him.

Well, he gave me his phone number. And I asked him out to a movie next weekend -- and he said YES! So, OK, maybe that's enough for now. Oh wait, maybe I can convince my brain to dream about him tonight. I'll keep saying his name over and over again. Maybe that'll work! BRAD! I really like that name. BRAD. Hope you're having sweet dreams too, BRAD.

We're Moving in Together! ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ (Magic in the Woods & Happily Ever After, pt 3)

Just so there's no confusion, this post is actually PART 3 of the past two posts entitled: Magic in the Woods & Happily Ever After.

First of all, an apology for all the cliffhangers we've been leaving. I think sometimes the posts we write are too long and maybe we could shorten things quite a bit. Maybe after taking my English Composition class in college I'll learn some editing skills. In the meantime, please bear with me!

So, as Brad mentioned yesterday, we are so happy about where things stand in terms of college! Can you believe it? There's a huge liklihood that he'll get approved for admission at the same college I'll be attending in January! He's still waiting for word on being able to possibly take one or two courses for the Fall term on a provisional basis.

So now for the other BIG news:

♥♥♥♥♥ We're moving in together!!! ♥♥♥♥

My grandparents asked to see Brad and I this past Sunday. They already knew that on Saturday we were going away for the day to talk about our future, especially about how going to college would fit into everything.

We had seen Gran and Papa a number of times over the past few months and they've always given us such good advice about this issue. I'll probably write more about them at some point, because they've been a HUGE influence in my life in so many ways.

Well, let's see if I can impose whatever editing skills I have and make this a short post. My Gran always says to make things "short-and-sweet."

I've mentioned before that I have two brothers, one younger and one older. Well, my grandparents have been gradually letting us in on some things in their Will that pertain to each of us. My older brother is engaged to be married later this year, so they met with the two of them and went over what they're going to inherit. But they're giving us our inheritances, or at least a part of it, a little early. Gran is always fond of saying, "Why do you boys have to wait until I die? Especially if it would help you now?" Always the practical person!

Gran and Papa, in addition to owning their own home, also own three other houses they rent out for rental income. So, okay, I'll get to the point (again!). In their Will they have it stipulated that I am going to inherit ownership of one of the houses when I turn 21. They said that was going to remain as it is. However, the tenants in the house I'm suppose to get have bought their own home and will be moving out on the last day of September.

What they offered us was the opportunity to go ahead and move in the house as renters. But there are two stipulations: The first one is that we have to agree to make all kinds of renovations and repairs. The house is actually in very good shape as it is, but they made this offer so I can draw up some plans to make it like I want it. 

They know I love doing this kind of stuff -- working with my hands, making repairs, building things... So, I'll be making and putting in new kitchen cabinets, painting both the inside and outside, putting in all new windows, refinishing the hardwood floors, redesigning the kitchen (knocking out a wall between the kitchen and a small pantry room adjoining it to make the kitchen larger), put in new kitchen counters and build a freestanding kitchen island. We also are going to build and install bookcases in both the living room and the small bedroom (which we want to use as a study of some kind). They also want some other things done to all three bedrooms.

Hey, I know it sounds like a lot, but, well, that's exactly what I do for a living right now! A lot of work, yeah, but right up my alley. Plus, I'll have my very own "assistant," who goes by the name of Brad! (Okay, okay, he told me we're going to both be equals, so I'll sorta be the Foreman and he can be the Apprentice Foreman!)

The second stipulation is that Brad and I have to jointly share the rent, which is no problem. They said in exchange for all the labor costs they would have normally paid to have the renovations done, they're going to drastically slash the rent (they're paying for all the material). All said and done, we're going to be paying an unbelievably low amount. We just have to get all the work done before I turn 21. So, I turned nineteen 3 months ago, so we have a little under two years!

But, you know what? As excited as I am to be doing all this work, NOTHING equals the excitement of moving in together with the love of my life! I know I've been rambling on about working on the house, but ALL Brad and I have been talking about is what our life is going to be like now that, (1) we don't have to be separated, (2) we're most likely going to the same college together, and (3) we're going to be living together! Not in my wildest dreams could I have predicted this!

So, we've worn ourselves out doing all kinds of happy dances! I haven't been able to get enough sleep because I'm too excited. I'm dragging my butt to work, but I know I'm not at my best. I can't keep my mind focused on all this good news!

Oops, sorry for making this post so long, but you still love me (us), right? Plus, there's no cliffhanger! I think (at least for now) this is all the news in this saga. I know it's all the news I can handle at this point! So I gotta get my ass in gear and head for work.

Oh, one more thing (there's always "one more thing" with me when it comes to talking!):

I so much believe in Magic! And I so much believe in Happily Ever After!

 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥  And I so much love Brad! ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Magic in the Woods & Happily Ever After, part 2

Yesterday Matty said he was going to finish his post today and give details about all that happened over the weekend. Well, since he was a sleepyhead yesterday and ended up being significantly late for work, his boss asked him to come in early today to make up the time. At least he didn't loose his job! So, he asked me to give my version of things and he will come back in Wednesday to tie up the loose ends.

So, he mentioned that we came up with some decisions that we both feel very proud of. We had decided prior to Saturday that each of us individually would come up with some kind of "ideal" or perfect solution to the problem and then use that as a starting point to talk about. 

Well, I sorta jumped the gun because I was about 90% sure I knew what I wanted to do. But I didn't want to just make a decision on my own about what we were going to do without hearing what Matty came up with. But, I was pretty sure he would like what I came  up with.

So, just to lay it on the line, I had pretty much decided I didn't want to move away from Matty. That didn't mean I was giving up on going to college. I was (and am) going to college no matter what. I figured I had three options.

One was to do what Matty had done and just take a year off, work, save some money and then start next year. That way I wouldn't have to move away and Matty and I would be together. Plus, I would still be going to college. The only problem with this option was that I would still have to decide the whole thing all over again next year.

The second option was that I could check into the possibility of taking some courses here in Boston (hopefully at Matty's school) and then transfer the credit to the college in Vermont next year, which again wouldn't solve the problem of me moving away next year.

The third option was that I could take some courses at Matty's school and during the year I could see if they would accept me in the 2013 term there. I had heard that sometimes schools will do this, especially if you do really well in the courses you take there -- like make an A in every course and maybe, uhhhh, well, beg on bended knees (I was going to say "suck up", but now that I'm a college kid, I have to watch my language!).

Well, I did some research at Matty's school and found out that this third option was not as easy as you might think it would be. But, two weeks ago I managed to get an appointment with the Director of Admissions to plead my case. You should have seen me all dolled up for her. I mean, I would have worn a coat and tie anyway, but I was in full fashion mode: a shorter hair cut, just a little tiny bit of eye liner (not overdone, of course), shoes shined, a tie that was somewhat conservative and an over-all look that said, "I'm serious, I'm smart and look at how cute I am, how can you say 'no'?"

I felt a little bad about not telling Matty I was doing this, but I didn't think I was violating any serious moral charges. Regardless of the outcome, I would tell him anyway.

Well, after my experiences this summer of being a "professional waiter" at the restaurant, I had learned a few things about being charming. I knew this alone would mean absolutely nothing, but, hey, I was trying to throw all the ingredients I knew into the recipe. What I really needed most was for her to find some way to get me admitted.

I made really good grades in high school and my GPA was high enough for admission to this school -- that, I had already checked. Plus I had a long list of extracurricular achievements from high school that I hoped would convince her I was not playing games. And, I had some really amazing letters of recommendation from my high school. I had even filled out the complete application packet for this school, and updated my personal essay to show how serious I was.

So, Ms. Director was really nice and I think we hit it off with each other. She said she was actually impressed that I had somehow bypassed the usual channels and gotten directly to her. I very charmingly said, "Oh, I hope I didn't go out of bounds. I just assumed that talking to the Director was what you did." I got this very adorable amused look from her. I somehow kept my face from ginning back. (I didn't tell her that I used my "insistent voice" with some of the assistant admission directors and admission counselors who tried to keep me from her!)

Then, she asked me if I knew any other students on campus. Oh, no. What was she asking me that for? Was this some kind of trick question? I hadn't anticipated that! It took me about two seconds to decide to just own up and tell the truth. I mean, as charming and cute as I can be, I figured I had gotten this far and didn't want to screw anything up. So, I just said, "Well, my boyfriend is starting in September." And, I swear to God, she didn't miss a beat when she said, "So is that why you're not wanting to move out of state?"

I then let my face have a small, shy grin (which came naturally and was not for show) and just said, "Yes, Ma'am."

Well, she said they didn't make admission decisions based on personal factors like that. Then I got the "Ms. Director Stare." I just said, "I understand."

Then she looked over my admission papers again and just said everything did look quite impressive. (Oh no, I knew there was a "but..." coming next) She looked up, smiled, and said she appreciated my drive and determination. "However, (okay, here it comes) I don't make these decisions on my own. We have an admissions committee meeting the first week in August to finalize last minute issues. I'll present it and give you a call. Will that be satisfactory, Mr. L____?"

("Mr. L____?" I never, ever  get called by my last name, much less "Mr." It's actually kind of unnerving and I had this feeling my dad had somehow suddenly materialized behind me! Is this how they talk in college??)

"Yes, ma'am. I'd appreciate that. And again, I hope I didn't go out of bounds." She just smiled and said, "No, Mr. L____. You did just fine." Then she stood up and we shook hands.

Well, I got a call from Ms. Director late yesterday afternoon. She said the committee met and even though it was too late in the process to approve my admission for the Fall term, it would be considered for the term beginning in January! She sounded very optimistic it would be approved and cited several things in my application that impressed the committee!

Before I thanked her and everything, she said I could try and find one or two courses that had openings for the Fall term and she would admit me on a "Provisional Admission Status." She explained that most courses were already full, but they might be able to get me into one or two if the Professors approved it. She also said they would most likely not be courses I would ordinarily take as a Freshman, and I may or may not be able to apply the credits to my degree. She said one of her assistants would be calling me this week to explain and arrange things.

I talked to my parents yesterday about all this and they're all behind me! I'm going to loose some money from the college in Vermont, but, wonder of wonders, my dad said he would take care of that as well as advance me the money needed for the admission process here!

Matty and I are ecstatic to say the least! But, guess what? That's not the end of the story! Matty mentioned yesterday that his grandparents wanted to see us Sunday afternoon and they made this unbelievably generous offer that totally stunned us. And, no, they're not giving us any money. It's not that at all. We found out a little secret they had that was going to happen as soon as Matty turned 21. I'm dying to give it away but Matty made me promise to let him tell it since its his grandparents. The only hint he said I could say today was to let everybody know we're "moving" ahead with our future.

He'll be posting about it tomorrow!

Magic in the Woods & Happily Ever After, part 1

      

Call me crazy... Call me young... Call me naïve... Call me Ishmael (Oh, wait. That's from Moby Dick!)... But there are two things I can say with certainty about myself: (1) I definitely believe in Magic, and, (2) I definitely believe in the possibility of Happily Ever After.

When I talk about "Magic" I'm not talking about your usual hocus pocus magic, the kind you see at kid's birthday parties. I'm talking about those special, wonderful and sometimes unexpected surprises that catch you totally off guard. Brad and I experienced some of that kind of magic this weekend.

And when I talk about "Happily Ever After" I'm mainly focusing on the possibility of two people creating that in their relationship. I'm not sure HEA "just happens" out of the blue. Maybe it does sometimes for some people. Brad and I are discovering that we're apparently doing some of the right things to create the possibility of that happening for our future.

We spent all day Saturday away from family and friends to spend some special time just by ourselves to talk about the next major step in our relationship. Brad is scheduled to move out of state next month to start college. I'm scheduled to start college myself here in Boston.

Going to college is something both of us have always had as a priority in our lives, but then we experienced some of that "magic" I referred to above: One of "...those special, wonderful and sometimes unexpected surprises that catch you totally off guard"... namely, we met and fell in love with each other.

If you've been following our posts lately, you'll know how agonizing this has been for us. We've been together now for about a year and 3 months (but who's counting?). The last thing either of us wants is to be separated from each other. AND, the last thing either of us wants is to give up on our dream of going to college.

Well, we ended up making some decisions that we're both happy about. Then, when we got back home, we got another big surprise that qualifies for the category of "magic." Totally out of the blue.

I've always been extremely close to my grandparents, both sets. Well, when I got home late Saturday night, there was a message from my mom's parents asking Brad and I to come over to see them Sunday afternoon. Gran and Papa have always been a major part of my life and they absolutely adore Brad. They don't seem to ever get enough of him (which I can understand, but for different reasons!).

They knew we had been trying to figure out how we could resolve the college issue and on Sunday afternoon they made an offer that literally (and I mean that literally) stunned us. How did they know about our decisions? How could their offer have made everything come together even more perfectly? I mean what's going on here?!!

I'm already late for work, so I have to shove off now. Sorry about leaving this in the lurch but I slept late this morning so everything's behind schedule. I promise I'll share the whole thing tomorrow.

All I can say for now is that Brad and I thought the decisions we made on Saturday couldn't have been more perfect. Then with Gran and Papa's offer, the whole thing moved into some category beyond perfect, if that's possible.

Stay tuned!