1 [Report This]Date: October 26, 2020 04:59 pm Title: An Ending to a Beginning
I can't believe it's over (for now!!)
This story has kept me coming back to check for updates on a very regular basis. I really thought you were going to kill off Jim in the beginning. I'm so glad you didn't. The ending was great, and full of so much hope. Since I know this is based off of some of your own personal experiences, I hope your story had a positive ending, such as Cece's did with the upcoming move and her new school. I'm looking forward to your sequel story, and (hopefully) more positive progression for the family!
Date: October 26, 2020 04:24 pm Title: An Ending to a Beginning
Well, after all the pain they've gone through, I loved seeing happy Cece - and seeing her interacting with her family without it being fraught.
The line about Phil saying goodbye to every blade of grass, each bush, and all the trees is great - and very age-appropriate.
I don't have much intelligent to say about this in general - I'm just appreciative of them getting some light at the end of the tunnel, and I'm excited to see the next steps on their journey. Looking forward to the sequel!
(Also, quick beta note: I think it should be "parental programs for immersion and ASL instruction were unmatched by any other institution.")
1 [Report This]Date: October 25, 2020 06:55 pm Title: An Ending to a Beginning
What an incredible ending!
Extremely sweet to see the intimate interaction between the sisters. Cece pouring out her soul to Ollie was simply perfect. Ollie will definitely grow up to share a special bond with her big sister. I love to see Cece is adjusting well to her baby sister too. Her love for her baby sister is beyond measure.
I cannot believe that Pam actually bought Cece a horse! For whatever reason, I thought the stall was left behind by the previous homeowner and they may get a horse after they have settled down for a few years. And by the phrase in previous chapter, “she’s begging me for ages”, I figured that Pam will get Cece a puppy instead. I am so glad that I was wrong. A horse is certainly a bolder option. I love this spontaneous side of Pam. I hope Cece’s horse acts as an incentive for her to be more excited about the move. It is clearly a bittersweet moment for Cece. You have managed to capture her fears and insecurities flawlessly.
I love seeing the juxtaposition between Cece and Phil. Although they are both anxious about the move, they have been presented to show it differently. Cece was clearly nervous while Philip seems to be a little more carefree and innocent. It was adorable to see that he was bidding every little thing outside his Austin home goodbye.
I’m delighted to hear that Jim regained his some strength back. Not only can he help with the move by lifting lightweight objects, he can even scoop Phil up and give him a shoulder ride. That is a fantastic start. I love the relationship between the father and son. I like how you managed to emphasize it more in this chapter.
It warms my heart to see that days are getting so much brighter for Jim and Pam. It has been a turmoil for the couple. Jim reassuring Pam that they are going to be fine as a family makes me emotional. Look how far all of them have come. I’m so happy that everyone is fine, taking it one step at a time. They fought it hard and well. Every scar tells a story. It shows bravery. Nashville will be a new beginning for all of them to thrive.
With a heavy heart, I could not bear to say farewell to this story. Nonetheless, I’m so excited about the sequel. Thank you for this wonderful story about love, strength and courage from a family that we all love.
Author's Response: Olivia---I have to tell you that I ADORE how much thought you put into these reviews. I love how lengthy they are, and I take all of your thoughts into account when writing. So thanks to you, Ollie has this little nickname that I feel fits perfectly into the story. All thanks to you. I have always wanted a little sister, I had two younger brothers, and then my parents adopted two little girls and it changed my life. They're now 18 and 19, and I am so lucky to have them in my life.
Cece's horse will play a huge role in the next story, and I like to see spontaneous Pam doing something after knowing they've had a hell of a year. You're also going to learn a little backstory that a Miss Pamela Morgan Beesly-Halpert has some experience with horses.
I loved the description of Jim really leaning into his relatonship with his son. My father survived his TBI and he is literally the most supportive and incredible man in my life. I adore him, and he reminds me SO much of Jim. Emotional, sensitive, caring, and his kids and his wife are his priority--and he's been a huge inspiration for my story as well as keeping Jim as in character as possible. TBI's, trauma and accidents leave a long lasting mark, and we will see some of that in the sequel.
As sad I am that this story has ended, I am SO excited for Tennessee River Run to come out very very soon, and I truly hope you'll jump on board for the next one and keep reviewing because truly Olivia, they inspire me every single chapter! Thank you!
1 [Report This]Date: October 25, 2020 05:20 pm Title: An Ending to a Beginning
Lovely ending for a great story. There were a ton of ups and downs. There at the beginning I was thinking for a few chapters you might kill Jim. Thanks for not doing that by the way.
You showed them in very real ways. That's one of the things I've always said makes Jim and Pam resonate so well. They feel much more like a real couple than many other pairings on TV. They struggle to get together sure, but then they go past the wedding to their marriage and there's still ups and downs. So you did that part of the JAM relationship real justice.
Getting into this chapter, I love the conversation Cece is hacing with Olivia. I also get the feeling that Ollie is kind of Cece's private nickname for her. Like everyone else calls her Olivia, but only Cece calls her Ollie. Moving as a kid is hard and it's nice to see that nervousness brought out in her.
Likewise Jim is also hesitant. They've been through the fire and have come out stronger true. But as you said, the scars remain. However it's because of that fire that they now feel even stronger as a good refining fire should do. Loved that.
Like I said, great work with this one. Looking forward to seeing the tale continue.
Fortes Fortuna Adiuvat
(Fortune Favors the Bold)
Author's Response: I didn't want to give away too much about what would happen with Jim, and although I've written major character death, my purpose, as you now know, was to really use the aspects of Jim and Pam being such real characters and bringing them into the severity of a very difficult situation. It was cathartic for me to work through my own trauma, but also to see it end differently than my own story, and I love where this little family is going.
I always appreciate your lengthy reviews so much and how you give me insight into your thoughts each chapter, it truly motivates me and I love it. Ollie is definitly per private nicknames and I think a sweet little thing I've inputted from a recommendation of another reader as well. I am so excited to show you what Ollie will be like in Nashville, as we are going to move into the future a bit.
I LOVED the latin. Thank you Eric for being here through this and I can't wait to hear your thoughts on the new story!
Date: October 25, 2020 04:37 pm Title: An Ending to a Beginning
This was really, really sweet. I loved Cece talking with Olivia. I’m so glad she loves having a little sister! This felt like such a beautiful ending to their Austin and I’m so excited to keep reading about their lives in the sequel!! Thanks for writing such a moving and lovely story. Even through the difficult times, it was still a great read. :)
Author's Response: Oh thank you so much WW, I am so happy that you've been here sticking around and reading even through the very difficult times. I am so excited to post the first chapter of Tennessee River Run, and to really come full circle for the Halperts, I have some surprises up my sleeve. I can't wait to hear from you soon!
Date: October 24, 2020 07:19 pm Title: Chapter 12
I loved reading this chapter. After everything they've been through they deserve a little happiness and her name is Olivia. Such a beautiful name and knowing the ASL for beautiful I totally envisioned the moment.
True they will have more tough times ahead but so glad they are enjoying this moment all together.
Now adding a horse/pony to the equation seems a little foolhardy but I'm sure you have a plan in mind there. Cookie ordeal sounds interesting. Hope I'm not forgetting something I should remember from an earlier chapter.
So enjoyed this whole story even though it broke my heart at times. you tell it all so well.
Author's Response: Awww Maxine, I’m so glad you enjoyed the chapter, there will be another chapter of this to come, and then a sequel after that taking place in Nashville! I love that you were able to envision the ASL, that certainly was one of my favorite parts of this story and will become a bigger piece in the sequel. Cookie was referenced earlier in the goldfish chapter where Jim got the kids a goldfish and it only lived four hours. Lol. This story definitely broke my heart in moments, but was so wonderful to walk through it. Be on the lookout for another chapter to close this out then a sequel!
Date: October 24, 2020 11:24 am Title: Chapter 12
Okay, I love the name Olivia, this is all incredibly sweet, I'm so glad to see them in such a happy moment after all they've been through...
...but mainly my response here is DID JIM GET CECE A PONY????
Author's Response: Ahahaha Cece may or may not have a beautiful pony waiting for her up in Nashville, you’ll just have to keep reading to see! Thank you for always reviewing, it warms my heart!
1 [Report This]Date: October 23, 2020 08:24 am Title: Chapter 12
Holy guacamole, I literally had chills when I learnt her name. We share the same first name! I stared at her name in extreme disbelief before my heart exploded with joy. I am utterly in love with her name. I think it’s pretty rad that you decided you give her a stereotypical boys’ name as her middle name. Can it get any cooler that her middle name is passed down from her daddy? I’m giddy with happiness after reading this chapter.
Such a precious moment between Cece and Phil. No matter how old they get, Cece and Phil will always be their babies too. I think parents still relish the peaceful moments when their children are sleeping, don’t they? It’s always the calm before the storm. I hope Cece will be open to the idea of the move. Definitely another drastic change for her to ease into. Home is where family is, right? The Halperts will be there for each other. All five of them. I cannot wait to see their next big adventure.
Seeing Jim and Pam completely smitten with Olivia melted my heart. She’s teeeeny tiny. How precious. They have probably miss the feeling of cradling a newborn in their arms. This will be a fresh start for all of them. I’m so glad that Jim is awake to soak in the entire newborn phase with Pam. He will be here to stay. Forever. I love the little detail that Jim signed “beautiful” to Pam.It shows that they have been learning ASL so well to use them naturally and not just with Cece.
Welcome to the world, Olivia James Halpert. She’s already a wonder. It is still feels so surreal that we share the same name. This little fictional baby just seems so real. All I can say is that I’m very invested in Jim and Pam’s lives through your amazing story. I wonder what will be her nickname(s). I go by Ollie, Liv, Livie and even Via. Thank you Jenn for making me smile so wide. :) I cannot get enough of your writing.
PS: Yikes! I’m sorry for editing this comment several times. My brain had a lapse of concentration last night.
Author's Response: Well, OLIVIA! I absolutely adore your reviews and I think it’s so perfect that her name was yours! I’ve known from the beginning her name would be Olivia and I felt it just in my gut that’s what their third baby’s name would be. I absolutely love how invested in this story you are, I ADORE the lengthy reviews and always get so excited to see and read them. You have me some adorable nicknames, I really like Ollie, that one might stick! We will see because my exciting news is that I’ll be wrapping up this story soon, but starting a sequel that entirely takes place in Nashville! I hope you’ll be along for that ride too!! And I’m so glad you’re here ;)
1 [Report This]Date: October 23, 2020 01:08 am Title: Chapter 12
I wrote out an entire long review and all that posted was “Awww Olivia” so I deleted it and while yes, AWWW OLIVIA, also:
It’s so nice to see them basking in this newborn bliss amidst all the pain they have gone through. There’s no better feeling than a tiny ball of warm newborn goodness resting on your chest and you captured that wonder and joy, even with the hints of worry and residual pain Pam feels about almost losing Jim. I love that all five of them got to be together. Beautiful little chapter. :)
Author's Response: Your first paragraph literally made me LOL. I too am gushing over Olivia, I love her red hair, and her middle name, and I think this new addition to the Halperts will be wonderful. Holding a newborn baby right after birth is such a magical experience and I think that the five of them being together even in the hospital really was a warm and comforting way to let everyone know the Halperts are going to be okay. I am excited to be finishing up this story soon, and moving on to its sequel in Nashville and I hope you’ll be along for
that ride too!
Date: October 22, 2020 10:05 pm Title: Chapter 12
Welcome baby Olivia. Love how they're caught up in new baby euphoria. They both know that will fade soon, especially with the challenges they're facing, but for now that doesn't matter. All that matters is that they're all together. Lovely scene in that regard. They've come through a huge storm and while there's still some rollers that will break, it feels like they're past the worst of the wind and waves. Delightful to envision them all cuddled up like this.
Looking forward to seeing how Cece reacts to the move. She's come a long way too in this story and it feels like she's in for another shock. Should be interesting to see how that pans out.
Author's Response: Thank you so much Eric! I was so excited to bring little Olivia into the story, especially since their year has been so full of tradegy they needed something wonderful and perfect to really bring them close as a family. I’m excited to finish up this story soon and move on to the sequel in Nashville and I hope you’ll be along for that ride too!
1 [Report This]Date: October 20, 2020 08:26 am Title: Chapter 11
First off, hooray for Philip. I’m glad that he’s finally back. I like that we get to see how Philip is dealing with the ordeal. Though he may not have it as hard as his sister, he was still emotionally traumatized. Hence, it explains him being guarded during his first therapy session. I hope therapy will benefit this little guy. I’d love to hear more about Philip in the next coming chapters.
My heart aches for Cece as she reminisced about her old life that she may potentially never get back. She has been through so much as a teenager. She’s a badass, for sure! It’s going to be rough if she were to move away from her family.
Pam is such a phenomenal mother, doing the best she can despite her struggling as well. She suddenly has to be a single parent on top of being pregnant and taking care of Jim full-time. Wow, I’m blown away by the strength moms have. New-found, deeper appreciation for all mommas out there, including mine.
Moving amidst all the craziness?! I never see it coming but that’s something right up the Halpert’s (or more of Jim’s) alley. If they could transition well from Scraton to Austin, I’m sure they will thrive in Nashville too.
To add on, I would love to hear more about Jim’s and the kids’ thoughts and feelings of Pam’s pregnancy. Were Jim and Pam trying? How would they react? Especially Jim as he was in comatose for months. Will the kids feel “replaced”? After all, Philip has been the baby of the family for the longest time. These are just my random thoughts! Please do not feel obliged if you don’t feel comfortable to answer them. This is your story. It’s entirely up to you on which direction you choose to take.
I am so sorry for the rambling. Please let me know if you wish for shorter reviews in future.
What a great chapter! I am always looking out for more. :)
Author's Response: Aghhh I LOVE your reviews! I love being asked the questions, and being given more material to work with, it honestly is incredibly helpful and so much fun for me!
Philip needed to make a reappearance in here somehow and I think therapy was the right way to introduce him back into what's going on, and although he was more verbal about his trauma, which led him to getting into therapy, he definitly is dealing with a different type of trauma then Cece, and being younger and the baby, I think he's desprately needing the attention from both his parents.
Cece is incredible, but I definitly don't want to pull her away from her family, but I think that a change needs to happen for her to thrive, and for the Halperts to thrive, and although a move isn't necessarily ideal--I think Nashville will offer opportunities in the arts for Pam, and give Cece access to a community that she's never had before.
I love the questions about baby Halpert, this definitly will be addressed in the next chapter. I think you may see some resentment from Philip for a bit, because he IS the baby, and Cece has taken priority these past few months with her hearing, and now spending so much time with their father.
I love the rambling, I LOVE the longer reviews, they make me so happy!! More to come soon!
Date: October 19, 2020 03:57 pm Title: Chapter 11
Now, THIS is a less stressful chapter. Obviously there's a long road ahead, but it's nice to see this family looking forward again - and starting to be able to make decisions primarily around what's best for their kids. I like the teaching direction for Jim (sports marketing is obviously a better fit for him than paper sales, but it always seemed like he was a guy who maybe just wasn't meant for corporate America), and it's also good to see Pam, even in her darker moments where she feels like she's struggling as a mother, fighting to make things work for Cece. (Certainly the thing about her spending so much time alone feels like something you want to address fast - I was kinda concerned about that in earlier chapters.)
Interested to see where you go next with Phil - haven't spent too much time with him in awhile.
Author's Response: lol I had to take things down a notch eventually, right? Little bit more of a comfortable chapter with less stress. I think after ten years in sports marketing its going to weigh on a man, so I defintely think a change of career and pace in this part of hisl ife makes sense. I also am excited about Pam trying to make things better for Cece, because she's really had a shit year lol. She needs that time with her parents, and I think that them moving is going to provide opportunities for her to really connect with them with this new language, in a new place, and now as an older girl. Austin has always felt like her 'home' as it's really all she can remember, so now she'll be making new and better memories somewhere else! Thank you again for your reviews!
Date: October 19, 2020 03:54 pm Title: Chapter 11
So that's taking a bit of a turn. Of all the things in this story I didn't expect them to think of moving again. However they're in a huge transition already. I could easily see a lot of pros and cons to a move.
Nice to have a bit with Phillip. We've gotten a lot with Cece so it's nice to get a bit of his perspective too.
Love the name Charlotte.
Author's Response: Moving poses a lot of challenges, but I think for them at this point in time, the accident has put a huge damper on their family, and I think getting away and focusing on the kids and their needs will be a huge asset to their family dynamic. I also think that Jim leaving Athleap feels right, he's been doing it about ten years, and I think it's time to slow down a bit.
Also, yes, time with Philip! He's a bit hard to write for me honestly, because we know so little, I tend to focus a lot on Cece, but I needed him to come back here, so the four (almost five) can be reunited.
Charlotte is gorgeous, but remember? Too royal ;)
1 [Report This]Date: October 15, 2020 06:24 pm Title: Chapter 10
Another great update! I always love when people explore the idea of the documentary after the show ends, like Cece finding the DVDs.
I also can’t wait to find out baby Halpert’s name! I hope the delivery goes well, because they’ve all had one hell of a year. Haha
Author's Response: Her name will be revealed so soon! Thank you again for another lovely review!
Date: October 15, 2020 01:30 pm Title: Chapter 1
Another great chapter! I hope we get to see more of the kids' reactions to the documentary. Also, here's hoping things go smoothly for Pam :) Can't wait for an update!
Author's Response: Thank you so much! I am excited for little baby Halpert to come into this world, even though it’s been a crazy year for both of them! Thank you again for the review!
Date: October 15, 2020 01:19 pm Title: Chapter 10
Jesus. No mercy from you towards these characters, huh? They're having about the wildest year imaginable.
That was a moving glimpse into what exactly Jim's experience with PTSD has been like, particularly as we're seeing him make noticeable progress in recovery from his physical injuries. Interested to see where you go with that next - and how Pam is holding up with all of this.
I am absolutely fascinated by the concept of Cece and Phil reacting to the documentary, and I really love that you brought it into this - she's definitely at the age where she'd be aware of it and curious about it, and at a moment in her life when she might be especially interested in what her parents' lives were like before.
The puzzle metaphor is a good one - understandable for someone who is still a little young to grasp the nuances of adult relationships, pretty accurate, and kind enough to Roy.
(I absolutely love the detail of Cece having Pam's tongue-between-the-teeth smile.)
Author's Response: Ahaha and here I was thinking this chapter was tame compared to my others lol. Had to bring a little action in here! Jim’s PTSD is a bit of a beast, we’ll continue to delve into that. I also am extremely interested in the discovery of the documentary and how that has shaped their lives and especially what their children think of it. I want to see more snippets of that in stories so there will most certainly be more of it. Cece’s got that same infectious smile just like her Momma :) Thank you for your review!!
1 [Report This]Date: October 15, 2020 03:51 am Title: Chapter 9
Don't know how I missed this update but wow, I loved it.
Your depiction of Michael was just right - matured and evolved, self-aware but still with the playful edge that makes Michael, Michael.
Perfect use of the line: Never, ever, ever give up.
Bravo.
Author's Response: Aww thank you so much Maxine! Writing Michael into this story was an absolute joy, and I love the idea as you mentioned that with age came some maturity for Michael but deep down he’s still himself. His relationship with the Halperts is one I’ve imagined never stopped when he moved to CO, I see him in their future quite a bit. :) thank you for your review!
1 [Report This]Date: October 14, 2020 11:15 pm Title: Chapter 10
This is a lovely chapter.
As a 14-year-old, I can relate so much to Cece. Seeing the relationship that Jim and Cece has reminds me so much of my dad and myself.
I love how to tackle the topic of how Jim explained Roy and Pam’s relationship to Cece with the puzzle analogy. It was very clever indeed.
Throughout the run of The Office, I adore the moments whereby Pam has her head on Jim’s shoulder and Jim will plant her kiss on her head. It always make my heart flutter. I’m glad you wrote it in when they were discussing baby names. It made my heart melt. We finally get to see the sweet side of Jim and Pam again. It’s definitely one of my favorite part of this chapter.
Ohhhh boy, we are in for a ride. Baby Halpert #3 is coming in HOT!!! She could not wait to see this world, couldn’t she?
Author's Response: I love that you’re able to relate to her! That actually means a lot to me, because I am not 14, nor 11, and although I remember it quite clearly, I have to think about what being a pre-teen in 2020 actually looks like. It’s nice to hear she’s relatable, and in character. I think she grew up to be a spit fire. Her parents were both a bit wishy washy and I think they raised her to know what she wants, speak her truth, and go out and get it. I love Cece, that’s why she’s such a big part of this story.
Baby Halpert can’t wait to get here! I love when you said she’s coming in hot, it made me actually laugh out loud today. Lol. I love that she’s making her way into the world, and they’re not ready even though this is their third time around. But sometimes you just have to jump even when you’re not ready. She’ll be coming soon, and with a beautiful name I might add too!
Date: October 14, 2020 10:00 pm Title: Chapter 10
Nice chapter here. Good to see things moving along with Jim's recovery. I love the idea that Cece not only found the guitar but the DVD's too. She is after all Jim and Pam's kid and thus a quick thinker and probalby more than likely quite mishchevious as well.
I totally buy into the idea that they're not ready for baby #3. With everything going on it seems like it would be an easy thing to put on the back burner.
The scene trying out baby names is fun. The reaction to Astrid was a wonderful moment of levity. They're not back to where they were, but they're a lot farther from where they've been. Great way to bring that out.
An early arrival too! At least they're already in the hospital. Always fun to get an update for this one.
Author's Response: Thank you Eric! I’ve been on vacation but had to take some time to write out the next chapter for the week! I wanted to bring some joy into their lives as different as it might be right now, and with a little call back to Astrid I felt it was appropriate. I also took all the names INCLUDING Astrid from the top 100 list of girls names for 2020, so when I saw it on there, I about fell over in my chair laughing, so that’s how the little memento made it’s way into the chapter.
Thank you again so much for the review!
1 [Report This]Date: October 08, 2020 09:15 am Title: Chapter 1
Hello Jenn! I could not resist but create an account to share my thoughts on your brilliant story. Oh gosh, I do not even know where to begin. I love that you managed to capture the essence of Jim and Pam as parents without losing their character traits. I love the sequence you chose to write this story. It makes the whole story unique and we managed to know that Jim is awake! It is undeniable that this story is devastating but after knowing that you wrote this story based on your personal experience makes it more gut-wrenching. I am terribly sorry that you had to go through all of that. Nonetheless, I constantly find myself coming back to your story, craving for more chapters each time. I remembered letting out a gasp when I found out about Pam’s pregnancy in chapter 2. I have always envisioned Jim and Pam having a third bundle of joy that will be spaced further than the older two. Not in this circumstances of course but I’m sure the Halperts will work it out together as a family. I love the relationship between Jim and Cece. It was heartfelt and evident that they needed each other to move forward. I would never see Michael being a part of this story but it works out perfectly. As immature as he might be at times, he will never cease to make the people around him smile. I cannot wait to see what has been in store for this beautiful piece of work. Keep writing and never stop.
Author's Response: You have no idea how much it means to me when I hear that a reader created an account to write a review! I adore everything that you said, and I am so happy that you felt the characters were still themselves even though time has passed. It’s very hard to imagine what their children would be like some ten years later, but I have come to adore this little story, even if it’s most difficult and raw moments. Because I went through much of this it is so personal, and yet it becomes so easy to write because it’s real. I hope you continue to review and come back! Thank you again!!
Date: October 07, 2020 10:08 pm Title: Chapter 9
Oooof. This is a really great mixture of comic relief and sweetness and angst here. I like seeing Mama Bear Beesly in action and the families (Michael included) rallying around them in their time of need. Plus it allows for some callbacks both entertaining (the evil witch Jan) and tear-inducing (LISTEN TO HIM JIM). And the fact that Michael snuck into the hospital with pizza is just terrific.
Anyhow. I don't have much intelligent commentary here, but this was a really solid chapter top to bottom.
Author's Response: Thank you so much! I was so nervous writing Michael in to the story but it ended up actually being wonderful, and I love imagining Michael and Holly and their little family in Colorado. I felt like the support he could bring to them would help even just a little, but especially for the kids.
Thank you so much for always reviewing, I love hearing your thoughts each chapter, they make me so motivated!
1 [Report This]Date: October 07, 2020 09:32 pm Title: Chapter 9
Awww to Uncle Michael. And the "never give up" quote at the end was perfect and tugged at the heart for sure. I love how you wrote him here.
I always love a Larissa appearance as well. I don't know what it is, because their interaction was fairly brief, but I could sense a closeness between her and Pam and I thought it was sweet during this time where their shared favorite person's health is up in the air. I like to imagine they become really close after Jim and Pam get together.
Another great chapter and I always look forward to more updates. :)
Author's Response: Awww thank you so much, I love when you review! I'm extremely close to my older brother, he's like my best friend, and I feel as though Jim and Larissa would be close because his brothers are morons lol.
Thank you so much for leaving your thoughts, I love hearing them!
Date: October 07, 2020 07:09 pm Title: Chapter 1
I’ve been lurking here for quite a while (and have read some of your older stories!), but made an account just to review this one. Wow. This story has had me on edge since it started, and I check back everyday to see if there’s been any updates. It’s so captivating. I’m a sucker for hospital stories for whatever reason, and this fits the bill perfectly. I’m really happy things have been on the upswing for everyone, while there’s still such a long road to go. I can’t believe they’re about to have another kid in the middle of this! Wow! I hope things go smoothly for her; can’t imagine what would happen if something else goes wrong...
I loved seeing Michael show up. I think we could all use a Michael during sad situations, as crazy as he can be. He really does care about his loved ones. Anyway, not sure how much this review makes sense, but I’ll be waiting for your next chapter :)
Author's Response: Oh. My. Gosh. I feel so honored that you created an account to review! You have no idea how much hearing reviews means to me!! This story is based on true events that happened to me when I was just slightly older than Cece, and so it’s very personal, and my favorite family is working through it in a way I wish we could have. I make time to work on this story amidst the chaos of work and marriage and it has become my little pride and joy this last month or so.
I ALSO love hospital stories, and so I wanted to write one that wasn’t too heavy on the melodrama but felt more realistic, and still gave folks a sense that our beloved Jim and Pam are still themselves. I adore that you liked Michael, it was a new challenge for me to write him in, but it came with ease, and I am very happy you liked how it turned out!
That’s also so exciting you read my older stories, I wrote those gems about 10 years ago in college when I first started watching The Office but I am here again and writing once more! I’d love to hear more of your thoughts as we go along!
1 [Report This]Date: October 07, 2020 06:44 pm Title: Chapter 9
This story continues to be amazing. Loved the image of Cece curled up next to Pam. The quick Facetime conversation with Phil was nice too. Yes, he's under the strain of it all as well, but if there's one thing that's a relief it's that he's not in the hospital with the rest of his family.
Very heartfelt conversation with Larissa. Seems like everyone's struggling right now. Hopefully Gerald also pulls through whatever has him under the weather as well.
Now of course the main this about this chapter. Phenomenal job with Michael. He's still his goofy self, but I sense that being a husband and father has finally smoothed out his rough edges. He still loves to have fun, loves to entertain, loves to be a people person, but it feels like he finally gets that there are lines that one need not dance across at all times in order to keep the attention on oneself. I love the fact that Jim and Pam truly do consider him and Holly family. Likewise just him showing up brings life and joy back to Cece, as well as her appetite. I'd be right there with Pam, just happy she's eating anything. Some of my favorite Michael moments are when he's truly sincere with everyone. This has that in spades. How he's just there for them.
Then him sliding upstairs to Jim's room? There couldn't be a more perfect callback. Like I said I love good Michael moments and that was one of the first ones in the show. Bravo for bringing it back here. Just what everyone needs to hear, especially from the best boss Jim ever had.
Also one more quick thing. "The birth of his first two sets of twins." Does this mean Michael and Holly have two sets of twins? Meaning they have four kids? That's how I read it at least, in which case, my hat's off to both of them for having to endure that kind of chaos back home in Colorado. Still fun to envision.
Author's Response: Oh Eric, I saw the length of your review and squealed. I love reading your thoughts SO much after I write a new chapter, and I am so happy you’re enjoying this story!! To answer a few thing, Jim had traveled to PA to help his Mom get his Dad in an assisted living facility becsuse he has early signs of dementia, and yes Michael and Holly have two sets of twins, they are BUSY. Michael always wanted a lot of kids, and I imagine with age Holly may have had IVF, so they lucked out, Twice!
It means so much to me that you like how Michael was written. I was terrified writing those moments but I got so sucked in while writing I spaced out for a couple hours getting this chapter done, I needed his interactions, as you said, to still be silly and goofy, but he has learned what lines not to cross with age. He’s still a big kid, but having his own four and an amazing wife has taught him a thing or two. I love the idea that he and the Halperts stayed close and always were in each other’s lives.
The callback to Booze Cruise seemed to fit here perfectly in some advice to his old friend. He is, as you said, the best boss he’d ever have. Michael will definitely be making more appearances, but I’m so happy to continue to hear your thoughts!
1 [Report This]Date: October 07, 2020 05:18 am Title: Chapter 1
I just devoured this story in one sitting. This. Is. Beautiful!
I’m so excited to read more!
Author's Response: Welcome! I am so excited that you’re here, and loving this! And thank you SO much for the kind words! I can’t wait to hear more of your thoughts!