The Whittaker Saga

It's Christmas time for the Whittakers (and Prestons), and Christmas time is a busy time, especially now that they are divided on three households. The family has decided to split the days between them, so that all family members can be included, though Joseph and Abigail saw it as self evident that they'd host Christmas Day themselves. (The Duncans did not necessarily agree, as the world really does revolve around them, but they were forced to settle for seeing their daughter on Boxing day.)  Before the celebrations begin, however, Abigail has decided that her daughters get to see what the Charity Balls make possible. On Sunday, after service, she makes the family volunteer. Lo and behold, for once, Abigail found something Anna approves of! While Charity balls is not Anna's cup of tea, helping people, really helping them, is something she can take pride and joy in. Anna comes home delighted! This evening, there is, for once, harmony in the Whittaker household. The foll...

  The last week of fall seems to be a week of birthdays in the Whittaker households. Not only is William born early Sunday morning, but a few hours later, Emily too goes into labor, giving birth to her second son who they name after her father: Edward.  Emily is delighted at her little boy, and Frank too is enamoured with the little bundle of joy. Standing there, holding his newborn son in his arms, he feels... family orientated. Perhaps he can change? Perhaps he can be home more with his sons and wife. Be a present, and loving, father the way his own father was? Who says it's too late to change after all?    For a while, it seems hopeful. John is delighted at his new baby brother, Frank vows to spend more time at home, and Emily is feeling hopeful about the future. Only addiction is addiction, and while Frank has the best of intentions, his body has other ideas. Frank insist he does not have a problem, however. He can be at home more if he wants to. So what if...