You Make Me Smile

[Fleiss]

loved it!!

[CrazyTaraWitch]

this was fabulous! i'd had in mind lots of nice things to say about it, but just learned some depressing news and no longer remember...but i do remember this was great.
hope to read more soon !

[Karasu]

I just finished reading this from the beggining and i look foward for more of this beautiful and wonderful tale

[FineyMcFine]

Emms, this story is great. I love their date at Willow's house. I think you had told us previously that Tara was afraid of heights, so I wasn't surprised at her reaction, but I am surprised that it appears that she didn't tell Willow she was acrophobic. You'd think she'd want to explain ralphing all over Willow's dress. (Heh, I said "ralphing.") Maybe that happened off-camera though. Also, I was thinking that Willow changed her clothes a lot during this update and it was amusing me - first the vomit dress, then jeans and a mauve shirt, then she put a sweater on (assuming it was cold) and then a sweatshirt (which I think she slept in). That's very real-life when a person is home, I put different clothes on and off often, so I liked the inclusion of that detail. Speaking of details, it seems that they slept on the couch instead of in Willow's bed? That's nice - I'm glad they didn't do it while Spencer was there, not that I thought that was likely or anything, but when you started the post-sleeping scene with a morning scene I was wondering if it was a fade-out or what. Whew.

I'm still hanging on your every word, hope another update is in store soon!

[taraforever]

1st thing I love: is the way you manage to describe thoughts and feelings.
In the beginning, when Tara is in the kitchen drinking her coffee. I can see her looking at her cup of coffee and thinking as if I am watching your movie on TV.

Emms: Thank you so much…whenever I go to this place where I can see and hear and taste and smell everything in the scene (but not in the scary way, lol ) it’s almost like I’m standing in the middle of the scene in my head…and I try to get that across when I write it all down…I try to make it three dimensional… if that makes any sense….

It DOES make sense to me I would say that soon your story could be a wonderful script to be filmed :-)

Emms: I wouldn’t throw in the “hate” towel just yet… I have a feeling Logan has a lot more irresponsibility to toss around… and I think it’s a good possibility that Logan may ask Tara to get back together with her…but I’m certain Tara wouldn’t go for that…

Good to hear that :-)

Plus Spencer loves his "Lee-Lee" so what is the place Willow is going to take in Spencer's life between her other mother and her.

Emms: I’m sure there will be a place for willow in there somewhere…(and I’ll tell you a little secret… I’ve actually already got that part written. and everything works out just fine…feel better?)

See, just dancing now!!! Thanks I'm fine now

- Tara and Willow's 'first night' together:
Will it happen the night before Willow leaves or will Tara want to wait not being sure of their future together? Hehehe

Emms: It is possible…

I think it would be sex before but love and trust when she comes back. What do you think?

(PS: If you decide to write books and publish them one day, just please give me the link to pre-order them I will be the first to buy them )

Emms: Aww thank you so much… you have no idea what a warm fuzzy feeling reading that gave me. And thank you for all your incredibly kind words… I appreciate them so much. At the time you left this feedback I was kinda in a bad place about my writing…but your words helped me to feel better.

Please, Emms, never doubted your talent. I'm glad that I helped you to feel better. I'm here if you want me to give you some energy :-). If you like we can keep on talking about it in MP.
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Thanks for updating your story Emms
I love it

I love the way things are going slowly between them. How romantic is that!! The way they slept together without doing anything... Pure love.

It's great how you describe Spencer's innocence. He was just playing in the living room unaware of what was going on between Willow and his mother.

Nice the idea when he called Willow "Lee-Lee". With a few words, you caught something deep, full of meaning. He doesn't have to talk about his feelings.

“Look, Lee-Lee…!” Spencer stopped in his tracks; realizing the mistake he’d made, he looked shyly at Willow. “Umm…I mean, Willow. ”

His words prove that he feels like home with Willow.

You must be yourself very romantic to manage to describe so much tenderness between Tara and Willow. You know, when I read the part when they fell asleep, I have the feeling that time has stopped. Nothing exists anymore. Just a family with two people in love. Like in a dream.
But reality comes back here:

She really didn’t want to, but she would have to leave soon - she still had to do so much work in order to get ready for the showing in San Francisco. She didn’t have much time to get a collection of finished work together; she hoped Spencer would be content to paint today as well…

So again Emms, great update . Hope to read your next one soon.

Keep on writing your so beautiful love story

Take care

*hugs*

Allison

[JustSkipIt]

Emms,
I love the feel of the date at Willow's house and the inclusion of Spencer in it. I didn't remember that Tara was afraid of heights. Poor her to throw-up on Willow. I'm pretty sure in that situation, I'd just be saying good-bye but she did a really good job recovering. I can't believe that she didn't tell Willow about it. I'm terrified of heights. I mean really. Like unable to move. I would hesitate to even visit someone in an apartment like that and wouldn't go within 3 feet of the balcony doors so I'm impressed that Tara would even go with Willow. I mean wow.

Anyway, the rest was just so adorable and comfortable. Well done.

[Guppy]

Spencer is just precious. I just have to laugh whenever I read about him. He's so cute. Tara is such a good mother, he's definitely the kind of kid I see her raising. Poor Tara being sick on the balcony. That would be embarassing. Major points to Willow for handling it so well. And many many to staying over and cuddling on the couch! Love it!! Your characters just keep getting deeper and more real with each update Emms. Reading your story really is like watching a movie! Everything is so clear and detailed! You rock! I can't wait for another update!

[willow_tara_always]

updates r needed! im getting cranky! xxx

[russ]

As usual, I'm way late in reading this chapter, but had to drop in with some feedback anyway. I'm so impressed by the way you are bringing these characters to life. They are convincing depictions of two people who, while doing ok in their very different lives, are deeply lonely and in need of the completion the other can bring them.

Tara has Spencer and her art and the daily struggle to make ends meet. Willow has her work and a series of casual relationships (that's over now!). They are both shut off inside their own worlds. Tara can't admit to her fear of heights, or discuss her feelings. She doesn't want to "burden anyone else." She doesn't want to "put pressure on Willow or make her feel like she expected her to parent Spencer."

Willow seems more ready to open up and allow this family into her life, yet she's finding it scary. It feels right but it's all new to her. The barren apartment with its white carpets show that Willow's real life is her work.

Spencer, of course, has captivated Willow almost as much as his mother has. This story is a love triangle, as is any relationship when a child comes into the picture. Spencer is a very believable six-year-old, though perhaps quieter and better-behaved than some boys that age.

Some seem to be in a hurry for this relationship to move into the bedroom, but this way is more in character. Tara isn't about to enter lightly into physical intimacy, especially when she's not certain she isn't just another brief affair (the "gay of the day"). Besides, kids always complicate these matters. For these two gradual is essential.

Enough of this now or I'll be late for work. Thanks for this story, Emms. Keep it comin'!

Russ

[Grayson]

Spencer in the Supeman costume is too cute! When I was a kid I used to clothespin a towel around my neck like a cape and jump off the couch.

I like that the drama/conflict in this story isn't extreme. It's two adults trying to figure out how to navigate dating when one of them is a single mother and the other is very tied up in her career. Tara has to think about how her actions will affect her son and has to put that above her own desires (though thankfully Spencer seems pretty happy with her Willow-related decisions so far). Willow is figuring out that her life has been empty and wants to fill it but needs to be careful not to scare Tara off.

I love the thoughtful steps they're taking, and I'm looking forward to watching their relationship progress. If they can survive Tara upchucking on Willow's dress, I think they're on the right track.

[Artemis]

Well, pardon the pun, you made me smile

Tara's height-induced incident was, well, not sweet in itself obviously, but she should have no doubt that Willow's interested in her for her. After all, there's plenty of woman around who haven't horfed up their dinner on her, but none of them are Tara, and that's what counts for Willow. (It actually reminded me of a similar indicent, and the attached sentiment, in one of G.L. Dartt's Voyager stories, where Seven first discoveres the joys of party food, and shortly thereafter discovers the drawback of eating massive amounts of party food, with Janeway comforting her thoughout her intimate acquaintance with their bathroom.)

I like the tone of this story at the moment - it's not high-stakes drama, there's not mistaken identities and the girls misinterpreting each other and having depressed fits that they hate each other, there's not (so far anyway - I've got my eye on you, Logan) ex's showing up and deliberately screwing things up. I'm not saying any of those are a bad thing, but it's nice to have the story progress like this, a love story between normal adults with normal lives, taking the time to do things right. You write it so well - it's not often that Willow and Tara sleeping together and nothing naughty happening is so welcome (because we know there'll be plenty of hot gay love in time, of course ). And I especially liked Spencer in this chapter - there was a great combination, and balance, of a well-adjusted, mature-for-his-age child, and a, well, a child.

[SithLordWiccan]

Emmy, I was so in need of good feelings today, and so I sat down to read the update to this. There's not much I can say about it that hasn't already been said, so all I will add is "thank you".

Also, I'll admit it. I hummed the "Superman" theme when Spencer ran around as the Boy of Steel.

[Candleshoe]

I've only just found this, and I can't work out why!

This is a lovely story, and I think Chris hit the nail on the head when he said it was "normal". It feels like something that could happen to me, or my friends, and each detail is absolutely possible and natural-feeling. Does that make sense? Probably not, but I blame the beauty of your writing which is blinding me to the finer points of coherant thought...

[HOPE REIGNS]

Emms,

Here is my long over due and I'm sincerely sorry it wasn't sooner feedback. So please forgive me

Tara could really feel Willow taking the time to make sure Spencer felt needed - something Logan had never done, even on the good days.

I loved how this whole section flowed. From the walk around and Willow wanting to save something just for Tara to see up until the last sentence when Tara sees how right Willow could be for Spencer also and not just her. It was also sweet how Willow now wanted a decorated apartment after so many years for the woman she was falling for to feel comfortable.

She reached out to steady herself, but it was too late. Managing to grab hold of Willow’s dress just as the contents of her stomach came up and out, she didn’t have time to guide the redhead out of the way.

Ok, so Willow’s sweet thought didn’t work the way she wanted it to. But how sweet that Tara would even try to do something like that knowing how much Willow wanted to show her the view.

Tara met Willow’s caring, green eyes, she saw nothing but concern…and something more, which she didn’t dare try to name.

What more can you ask for in a budding romance but to be looked at in this way by the person you just puked on.

And, I can’t help but think that the rag on the forehead scene could have gotten mucho spicier if Spencer had not been in the next room.

Willow was on the couch, her feet curled into the leather upholstery, Tara was on the cushy white carpet, facing Willow, her legs crossed under her.

I can just see this taking place, Tara laying her head down on her arms once in a looking up into Willow’s eyes while talking. Ahhhhh!!

And the Lee-Lee slip, just another example of proof for Tara that Willow is quickly finding a space left in their lives.

Sometimes she wondered if her father or brother ever thought about her - about where she was or what she was doing - she wondered if they ever thought about Spencer. Tara frowned and questioned why her thoughts had even gone there. It wasn’t as if she spent a lot of time thinking about the family she’d left behind…

Ah-ha, unless she finds herself sub-consciously comparing her family life to the one that she found forming in the living room before her.

They were talking in low whispers, so as not to wake Spencer; discussing what it would mean if Tara stayed.

I so want to know what they said to each other…

She could see more mornings like this in their future, many more mornings.

Like from now on and forever right??

Ok, just a little side note. I absolutely love your writing and the way you create the images within my imagination. Catching Sunflowers in Bloom
was an addictive flow of story that the end alone is what brought me back to the Kitten Board after being away for a long time.

Thank you for your time and ambition to make wonderful loving Willow/Tara stories that cannot be found anywhere else.

Love ya Sweetie

Your Fan,

Anna

[DreamLover]

may I come in I'm scared

I hope I may come in....I know I have been a bad bad bad naughty kitten....because I haven't leaved you a reply

[center] I love it[/center]

runs off really really fast

Henny

[Emms]

HI everyone! I just want to thank everyone for their support and encouragement. It's meant a lot to me. Thank you, thank you.

Here are replies to feedback left on chapter 11! Thank you all!!

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K ~

Wow, Emms. What a sweet update. And I have to give Willow credit for being able to stop at her office. I dunno if I would have been able to, especially with such a hottie beneath her. But the fact that she did and that she's trying to do things right speaks highly of her.

I know.. I don’t think I could have stopped, either.

And I almost thought Tara would decide to pay Will a visit that night after being done with the painting. The smut-lover in me kept hoping...but ok, if they can be patient, I can be patient too.

You might not have to be patient for as long as you’re thinking you’ll have to. But I wont say more than that….

I'm not sure how Spencer will react to the fact that Will and her mom are more than just friends. We've seen him say how much he loves and missed his Lee lee, but we've never seen his say anything about him wanting them to get back together. There's also the posibility that he could be mad at T & W because he sees Willow as his friend...I dunno. Maybe I'm just rambling incoherently because I'm awake at 2.40 am waiting to take a break from work...it has been a long 16 hours...only 8 more to go.

No please… rambling is good. I don’t really think Spencer’s going to take the news about Willow and his Mommy hard or anything… he seems like a pretty well-adjusted child…. But then again, we don’t really know what Logan’s been filling his head with when no one’s looking.. .

I'm sure Willow looked stunning in her dress...let's just hope Tara doesn't get sick all over it. lol.

I must be pretty predictable

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Guppy~ Hi there, sweetie. You definitely make some wonderful points about Willow and her need to give. I just hope they can find a balance in that. We know that Tara appreciates Willow’s generosity, but having someone always trying to do something for you can get pretty tiring.

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db~ Thank you for your wonderful comments, sweetie.

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Shy One ~ Hi sweetie! How have you been?

The kissing on the couch was just too yummy for words!
But I must admit, I'm getting a little impatient at the thought
of having to wait for them to go to the next level.
I think it's cute and all, and very sweet and romantic.......but
darn it.....I just can't wait when it comes to them!

I know… and I don’t plan on dragging things out for too long. I can see smut on the horizon.

Please update soon then. Cos the sooner you give us updates.....
the closer we are to the hot gay lovin'!!!!

Indeed.

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Highlandlass~

Awww...how precious! I'm so glad that, not only was Willow able to stop because she wants their 'first time' to mean more, but also that Tara knew why Willow had to refuse to come home with her and understands. And Spencer, though we saw little of him in this update, is still adorable. I'm so glad that he likes Willow so much, and that Logan didn't bring him home half-way through the night or something, but I can see how a confrontation between Logan and Tara (and Willow!) might be building, especially if Logan decides to be an ass about Tara's new relationship when she finds out. Now, more

Thank you. J and I’m certain we haven’t heard the last from Logan. But don’t worry… even if she does make waves I’m sure they will only be ripples. Thank you for your continued support, sweetie. It means a lot to know you’re reading and still finding they story interesting.

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Grayson~

I love the building tension between Willow and Tara and how they're figuring out how to balance their heads with their hearts. They're both being smart by not jumping into things too fast, and I like how you've taken us inside their heads so we can understand their thinking. I like that they both recognize that their feelings go beyond just the physical attraction, and they want to be careful and not mess things up by skipping the steps along the way to their ultimate destination. As a reader, I like to get to see all those steps, rather than the characters jumping the gun.

This is a well-paced story that continues to demonstrate a real relationship beginning.

Thank you so much. And I couldn’t agree with you more… it always seems, to me, that intimacy is only special and good if both parties have taken the time to get to know each other first. And although, Smut is always hot, I really wanted this Willow and Tara to take things slow and not rush into anything…

Thank you so much for your feedback, sweetie. I do appreciate it.

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Jea~

I'm a little speechless, I think it's due, in part, to the lack of oxygen plus, overwhelmedness at the sheer intensity of that update. Wow, just, wow!

but thank you.

Okay so, to begin with I was kinda "huh? did I miss something?" & I did have to read the first few sentences a few times to kind of, get my bearings. Then I figured out where we were & what was going on, & I got that fear, which I think was the same fear that Willow must have felt, & I was all "no, no, no, it's too soon & it's all wrong", & I think that was the point when I started to hold my breath. And apart from the tiny sigh of relief when it became aparrent that they weren't gonna get with the gay lovin' in Willow's office, my breath remained held until the end of the update, when I finally remembered that breathing was really important.

Oh wow… I’m sorry to have caused you so much distress… I should have thought about that before I even posted that chapter…

It a good thing, really it is, I know the whole prospect of "your updates make me forget to breathe" doesn't sound like the best thing in the world, but it really is a good thing. Just as long as you don't write an update that's like, ten pages long, 'cos, then the whole, lack of oxygen thing would become a problem.

yes… but breathing is also a good thing. I’m in favor of breathing, in fact. You’re sweet.

So, phew & *big sigh of relief* that they've not passed the kissing stage yet. 'Cos that would have been bad, & it would have caused problems & they both would have regreted it - & there should be absolutely no regrets at all about that first time together.

Oh most definitely. Absolutely none.

Plus, we have to keep in mind how the whole thing would have affected Spencer, even if only indirectly, 'cos the whole dynamic & atmosphere between our girls would have changed & it would have made things awkward & weird & Spencer would have picked up on that.

Probably. Especially since we’re not sure how much he knows about what’s going on between Willow and his Mommy. I’m sure Tara has explained a few things…. But kids tend to readily form their own assumptions and then run like the wind with those assumptions.

I do wonder what it is exactly, that's making Tara push thoughts of Spencer back, in favour of her own needs & wants? It just, felt odd, & wrong somehow.

Oh I wouldn’t be too worried about that, sweetie. No one’s perfect... But I highly doubt that Tara would do anything to harm Spencer. Besides when you raise kids, sometimes you realize that kissing around them isn’t as big of a deal to them as people who are not around kids all the time would think it is.

Aww, that sounds so sad. Do I sense a future star-gazing date? Maybe a camping trip? Or a visit to a little cottage somewhere peaceful & close to nature-y?
I'm already swooning in anticipation

And to this I say I swear I already written this part out before reading your feedback. Everyone’s making all these guesses about what should happen and making me seem very predictable… (which I probably am ) The camping trip is definitely a must.

Aww, poor Tara having to go so high up when she's all afraid of heights - but it seemed that Willow eased those fears, as she didn't seem at all scared once she was in the appartment. Then again, she hasn't been near a window to see the view yet, but I'm sure Willow will take care of her.

And we already know how that went, don’t we?

Thank you for such, funny, entertaining, wonderful feedback, Jea-Jea.

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Dianneswillowtree~ Aww I don’t know if I’m quite the Master, exactly… but thank you anyway

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The original Sallypants ~

Emmypants, bravo! Now THAT is how adults work out problems involving expensive rental cars - they talk it out, make out for several hours on a leather couch in an office, and then have a dinner date. Much better than a long period of drama and not talking and hurt feelings and pining.

Oooo now I’m “Emmypants“? I can live with that.

I must say, I have to agree with you. Who needs long drown out periods of silence and (as you said) hurt feelings and pining? No one.

It seems that Willow has intimacy issues, or at least a lack of experience with intimacy. I'm glad she put on the brakes and didn't try to push herself into something she wasn't ready for. After all, you only get a first time with someone once.

That sounds about right… but wouldn’t it suck if it turned out that Tara had intimacy issues as well…? That would make for some very hairy drama, I think.

And how sweet is Tara, giving her the oven mitt? Very, very sweet. It's that kind of thoughtfulness that bodes extremely well for the foundation they're building in their relationship. After all, it's not about doing everything perfectly the first time, it's about having good communication and rolling that into the developing relationship.

Indeed, deary. I couldn’t agree with you more.

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Rachel~ Thank you so much. I’m glad you’re liking the story, sweetie.

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Henny~

Yezzzz Emms woooooooo wooo wooo woWOOOOO. I'm glad nobody knows I'm reading this kind off romantic stuff...I have a reputation you know...I'm cool

I cross my heart and promise that I won’t tell anyone that you are a great big softy, sweetie. (I hope no one’s reading this part…’cos if they are then that means that they just found out that the Henster is a romantic girly-girl! }

I think if this relationship gets future on track they really need to talk about there history. For Tara that would mean the time with Logan. Maybe you should keep that after there first love making like a opening towards Tara's heart. She opens up completely to the woman she loves. For Willow it will mean telling Tara that all the women in her life didn't matter at all...just one her. Tara could tense up about hearing Willow tell all her history and Willow can prove her love to her...oops I guess I'm drifting of in my ideas sorry.

Wow… once again, I promise that I already had that written out before reading your post. I hope everyone’s still buying that, ‘cos it’s true. *smile* They will most definitely delve deeper into Tara’s past…

Spencer is cute and yeah Tara should learn him a thing or two...maybe Willow can help....Maybe they can start being a family maybe a new baby ..wooo I'm doing it again..just stop me!

No. No new babies!!

Thank you for the feedback, henny. You know I luvs ya.

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WillowRulez~ Aww Hi, sweetie! I’m glad you didn’t miss the update. ‘cos then I would have missed reading your lovely feedback. Yep.. Spencer is cute with his flower giving… He’ll have to smooth that out before he tries it for real with a girl his own age

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Dorksrcool~ I’m so happy you enjoyed the update. And yes… I have to agree with you… there is just something about the image of Tara and her satchel that is very electrifying.

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Wimpy~

MMmmmm...I could just feel the heat emanating from their bodies as they got to know each other a little better on the leather couch. Oh my, leather, sweaty bodies, getting sticky in all kinds of places. Sorry, my mind went to that little smutty place for a minute. I admire their self discipline though, and agree it was best to stop...for now.

How did I know your mind was going to go there? Perhaps Willow and Tara will have to revisit the leather couch in the future.

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Sandman~ Yay! You liked the update! (which makes my heart do a little dance.. One akin to the dancing elephants in your post ) Thank you!

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Allison~

Again I love it. I love the way you describe Tara and Willow's thoughts and feelings. They are sooo real. Each time I read your stories I feel like being in movies.

Aww, that’s sweet of you to say. Thank you.

Willow had so many girlfriends (Is no ex- gonna be back? Not even a jealous one? ) that I love the way you push Willow to be patient and very different with this girl. How can she do that???? I couln't be patient if I were her.
Well that's beautiful to see how much she cares about Tara.

I’m with you. I couldn’t be patient either. And to put your mind at ease.. Let me assure you, that I don’t see an old girlfriend from Willow’s past popping up at any time… okay.. Maybe one, but nothing too dramatic or nasty.

The trip to Japan is going to happen... I'm very excited about the day before Willow's departure. and what is gonna happen during he trip.…

there’s much that could happen… I guess we’ll just have to wait and see

Thank you for taking time to leave such wonderful feedback, sweetie.
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Watty~

I'm completely in love with this stage of a fic -- first kiss and the need for more after the first kiss. I mean, I love the angsty "are we/ aren't we" and the intimacy / passion of an established relationship but there's something breathless and wondrous about those early kisses.

I agree. I love that place in any fic. I’m all about the needy angst-free smooches.

This sentence has been in my head for the last few days, since I read chapter 10. There's still so much unknown about their relationship and the thought of one kiss is enough to make Tara go weak, it's a beautiful place to be in.

Indeed it is.. Sometimes I wish relationships could stay right there… right in that place.

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Paul~

Yikes! I'm falling behind on the feedback all over the place here. Stupid real life getting in the way of my Kittenly duties. Or should that be Kitten-y? And the word 'duties' tends to imply something less enjoyable, which this definately is not. So maybe it should be ... oh crap, I think Willow's contagious!

You’re silly.

Now, all that desire swelling to a thunderous chrescendo was sweet and sexy and all, but I have to admit it left me a bit confused at first. For some reason it just took me a while to twig to the fact that we were continuing on from where we last saw them on the couch. No fault of yours though; I must just have been especially slow that day.

No way… it was totally my fault. I think I could have done that part a little better so that people wouldn’t have been so confused. My bad.

Hmm, I have to wonder if it's telling that Tara is the one who wanted to take that next step, while it was Willow who shied away. From what we've read, Willow seems the more experienced, in terms of sheer volume, but Tara seems somehow more the grown-up of the two. If that makes any sense whatsoever.

That makes perfect sense. And just because Willow’s slept with a lot of women doesn’t mean that she’s experienced. She’s never been in love before… making love and having sex are two different entities all together. It’s a good sign that Willow gets that, I think.

When you cut from Willow in bed, wanting to phone Tara, to Tara in the elevator, I thought Tara had thrown caution to the wind, and was coming to Willow's place of her own accord. D'oh! Nope, it's the next day, and the scheduled visit with Spencer in tow.

Once gain…totally my bad. I could have totally executed that part better… in fact this whole update (If I’m going to be completely honest) was a little rushed.

Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Paul.

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Anna~ I’m glad you liked the chapter, sweetie.

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Chris~

That chapter was really satisfying - and I don't mean that as in 'good enough', I mean that it was perfect for the situation Willow and Tara - and Spencer - are in. I liked that Willow had the maturity (and the willpower, ye gods) to cool things off, and that Tara's largely-allayed worries about Willow's history of brief flings are mirrored in Willow herself - for her, getting Tara in the sack clearly isn't the prize she has her eyes on.

Yeah, like I was saying to Paul earlier, I’m glad that Willow seems to be able to tell the difference between what she’s feeling now and what it’s always been with every other woman. She’s not just looking to get Tara in the sack…but weather or not she knows how to build an actual relationship is yet to be seen. Let’s cross our fingers and hope for the best

And, strange though it may seem, Tara's moment of panic-nausea out in the hallway was cute too - she's got the maturity to handle her relationship with Willow in an adult, responsible manner, but that clearly doesn't mean she's not giddy as a lovestruck schoolgirl at the same time

Indeed, that is true. But I think most of her butterflies had to do with her fear of heights. Though I’m sure some of it had to do with being all lovestruck

I do wonder what Spencer will make of the two of them - Tara's not the kind to hide things from him, so clearly he'll find out something's up sooner rather than later, and that it's more than just mommy having a friend. He likes Willow, a lot - but I wonder, will Willow-as-Tara's-partner be a significant shift in his perception of her, and how will he deal with it? He still loves Logan a great deal (saw X-Men 3 tonight, so Tara and 'Logan' having been a couple is, once more, a really bizarre thought), and in his eyes, Willow could seem to be replacing Logan. On the other hand, he's a remarkable boy - it wouldn't do to underestimate his ability to adjust to new circumstances.

I know I’ve said this before but.. I’m not really worried about how Spencer is going to handle his mommy and Willow being together (could that be because I’m the writer and I already know what’s going to happy? ) he’s a pretty well-adjusted type kid, so I think he’ll take it fine. Not to mention the fact that he really likes Willow and has no reason to feel upset by her inclusion into their little family.

Thank you for the wonderful feedback, Chris. Your thoughtful words have really made my day.

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Irene~

Things are progressing quite nicely on the 'getting-to-know-you-more' front between Tara and Willow. I would like to make mention of how responsible Willow has been in regards to the development of this relationship; halting things before they went further in her office, making sure Spencer didn't catch that 'stolen kiss'...it's easy to get carried away when you realize you're in love, but the more Willow thinks before she reacts will ensure a wonderful future for all 3.

Exactly right, sweetie.

How easy it is to get distracted from everyday responsibilities when all you want to do is spend every moment with the one who has captured your heart. It's very sweet, but unless both are planning on living off the land they better get cracking and work...um...food, clothing, bills, etc...yeah very important.

that was going to be the sequel! Willow, Tara and Spencer are forced to move into a dilapidated farmhouse where they’ll grow their own corn and tend the fields with the aide of an old ox named Brutus.

Imagine all the emotions adults go through in a separation/break-up/divorce: grieving, fear, anger, depression, and so many more. I'm sure Tara went through all that when she left Logan (how old was Spencer when Logan left?).

I’m thinking he was around 4 considering the timeline I’ve set up in the story.

Now children often go through exactly the same set of emotions and experiences. The difference is that they often have less information about why this is happening. This means the experience can be more tender, more traumatic, and generally more difficult for them.

So true….

Spencer's personality suggests that Tara, and perhaps Logan to a lesser extent, have taken great care in explaining to Spencer why both his mommies aren't no longer together. It doesn't seem like Spencer will have that much difficulty in accepting Willow coming into their lives. Sitting down with Spencer and discussing Willow's 'place' in Tara's life, seems like the best thing to do. Also, Tara should include Logan in this discussion, that way Spencer will know that she still has a place in his life and I'm sure that Logan's support of Willow and Tara's relationship will help make Willow's transition into their lives so much easier and without too many, or any, complications. Let's keep our fingers crossed and hope for the best.

I’m certain that Tara would do no less for Spencer.

Thank you for your wonderful feedback, sweetie…

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MagicPancakes~ Hi there Emily! Welcome! Aww don’t feel nervous… I don’t bite (much )

I’m so happy you’re liking the story. And I am also so glad that you’ve decided to leave feedback. And what wonderful feedback it was, too. Thank you so much.

And I know what you mean about Spencer’s tantrum being “aww” worthy. I felt that way too…’cos he’s just so adorable.

_____________________________________________

I would also like to thank the following people for their enthusiastic requests for an update.

CrazyTaraWitch
Fleiss
Tarawillowfan
Highlandlass
Henny
Dianneswillowtree
Dorksrcool
Shy one
Sallypants
Willow Tara Always
And Willowbaby.

Thank you!

[/b]

[DreamLover]

I cross my heart and promise that I won’t tell anyone that you are a great big softy, sweetie. (I hope no one’s reading this part…’cos if they are then that means that they just found out that the Henster is a romantic girly-girl! }

I'm not I'm ...I'm ... runs off to be alone.

[Emms]

Hi everyone... in the interest of staying out of trouble I'd like to recant my earlier declaration by saying: *clears throat* Henny is in no way a romantic softy she is, in fact, the queen of butchiness.. and is not a girly-girl

[DreamLover]

Thank you Emms ...because that's the truth I am...so cool...I'm no softie... repeat no softie!!!!! ....I just kinda know stuff...that's it...stuff.

[taraforever]

Thanks to you Emms.

It's always a real pleasure to leave feedbacks for your great story.

Please update it as soon as you can. I can't wait to read your next chapter


Allison

[DreamLover]

*HUGS* Thank you Emms for the Thank you...but we should thank you for your story and the time you put into it....THANK YOU EMMS.... *HUGS* and again thank you for the thank you It keeps us going!!!!

[AlysonGoddess]

awww yay update updates are good and i loved this one so please continue... sorry i dont have much to say other than that but im on vacation so my limit on the computer is very minimal .... even tho its nighttime but everyone is going to bed....and were in a rv...small space...together... i gotta go bye plz update soon!
Erin

[Willowtree252]

you are the master just look at all the fans you have. I love all of your storys can,t wait for more!

[Sandman78]

Hi Emms,
Just sittin' here waiting for an update...I'm sooo addicted to this fic, I need a fix. Hope to hear from you soon.

Sandy

[irishgrl3]

Emms,
That was such a sweet date! Even wi!th balcony incident which they recovered from nicely by the way. Well done! Willow was so perfect, she knew exactly what to say to make Tara feel at ease.

And Spencer's little slip with the name, got to love kids they handle things so well and move on.

Love the pace of their relationship so far. They both know they're hooked but aren't taking things too fast.
Can't wait for more Emms!

-anna

[Shy One]

Oh Emms-y, my dear.......

Do you think that maybe we could get an update for this
fab fic of yours?
It seems like forever since the last update........and I would
REALLY love some more smoochies.
Please, your literary goddess-ness?
Please, Oh mighty wordsmith?
Pretty please, oh master of prose?
(note the quality sucking up)

Please update soon Emms!!!
Luv ya, dear heart!

Shy One

[Emms]

Hi everyone! Here's replies for feedback left on the last chapter (12) I have chapter 13 finished it's just awaiting a little beta'ing to iron out the kinks.

ETA: If I've forgotten anyone, please PM me and let me know.
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Hi Paul!

How ashamed am I to have claimed dibs, forgotten that I'd done so, and only read the update two days later! Bad Kitten, bad!

That’s okay…I’m like a million years late with the replies…so that makes us even

Nice way to open the update, Emms, with a nice witty joke. Well ... I liked it anyway. Again, the sparse nature of Willow's live PT (Pre-Tara) makes itself shown. Really, it's kind of sad how little of an impression Willow seems to have made on the world outside of her career. Somehow I think that's about to change though.

Yes…I think you’re right.

Poor Tara. Definitely not the best way to make a good impression, puking right onto Willow. Yet, from Willow's reaction, as so many other people have pointed out, it must be love. No, not simple love but Luuurve with a capital L.

Super-Spencer think I used to do that sort of thing, only just last week. But then again, I also used to do it with my teddy bear.

I think we’ve all done it at some point. I know I have I’m doing it right now, even

Thank you for the feedback, Paul.

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willow tara always~ Thank you, darlin’

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Kimmy ~

my first reply to this wonderful fic AND i get dibs!!
i read this fic 2 days ago and fell in love with it!! you are a fantastic writer and thank you for not rushing into the sexual part of their relationship. even though it feels right in other fics with this they need and cuddles and confiding in each other first. (the last part doesn't sound right coming from me cos i'm always with the woo and the hoo for sex!) but you get what i mean right?
ok so i'll stop babbling...once again amazng story. keep up the good work

Thank you so much, sweetie. I’m glad to know that so many people are on board with taking things slow and getting to know a person before rushing into the smut. I know It will be ten times better for this Willow and Tara if they wait it out a bit.

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Dianneswillowtree ~ Thank you, dear

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Emily ~

woohoooo!!! I love mornings like that....all snuggly and comfortable, plus the added benefits of coffee and breakfast food...

Thank you for this update!!

I’m only too happy to oblige, sweetie. Thank you for that wonderful bit of feedback…it’s made my day all the more happy.

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Rachel ~ Thank you, doll.

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db ~ I’m glad you liked the chapter. And Woo Hoo! You gushed? *happy sigh*

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WillowRulez ~ I’m so happy you liked the update! And the picture hanging… that was the only part I was worried that I hadn’t been able to describe properly, so I’m happy to know you liked it. Thank you

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Car ~

**sigh**

Emmy, will you marry me?

Sure, but only if Tori can come too

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The Rose ~

So Tara is afraid of heights? I wasn't expecting that.
Very cute date with the ladies.

That’s understandable. It was kinda thrown in there last minute. Thank you for your feedback, sweetie.
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Aky~

GayNow wrote:
**sigh**
Emmy, will you marry me

She's mine! Damn! I was about to ask her that. I'm to late. Letting it be known, I'm second in line then okay!!

Actually girls… I hate to break up the fight…but I’m already taken. Sorry…

Now that my temper tantrem is over I feel free to post. Excellent update! My facial expressions throughout the whole reading looked like this . Again I'll repeat... I love Spencer. The whole 'Super Spencer' was cute.
Need, Update, Now..

Thank you. and, an update is on its way. I promise.

(Look at this Emm's, you've reduced me back to a five year old. )
(Edited because apparently my spelling was horrible. 'Tis All. )

Join the club, sweetie. my spelling is atrocious.
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Shy One~ Hi there, sweetie I’m happy you liked the update. You are so sweet!

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Vale! Thank you, dear! I appreciate all your wonderfully supportive words. And yes.. Being a single parent is a hard job. It sounds like your mom did a wonderful job raising you. You’re so sweet.

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highlandlass ~

Thank you, dear. I’m glad you liked the update. And you’re friend sounds like some of my friends

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Jea ~ Thank you so much. And I’m sorry to hear that the writer’s block Fairy has stolen your babble…it truly is so cute when you get all babble-y

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Sandman ~ Thank you, sweetie.

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Justin~ s Yay! It’s Justin! Yeah…sorry about slacking off over at Testimafy…I’ve been a bit negligent as of late. See look… I can admit it, so that’s gotta be something, right?

Thanks for the feedback, sweetie.

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Spells24

Thank you for the feedback, sweetie. And you shouldn’t have to wait much longer.

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Fleiss ~ Thank you!

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CrazyTaraWitch

sweetie, I’m sorry to hear about your depressing news. I hope things are better for you now. In any event, thank you for stopping by and leaving a few words. It means a lot.

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Karasu~ I’m glad you’re liking the story, and welcome…please pull up a seat and help yourself to the snacks.

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Sallypants!

You'd think she'd want to explain ralphing all over Willow's dress. (Heh, I said "ralphing.") Maybe that happened off-camera though

Hehe I think a lot of things are going to happen “off camera” if it means I don’t have to write dialogue for it.

Also, I was thinking that Willow changed her clothes a lot during this update and it was amusing me - first the vomit dress, then jeans and a mauve shirt, then she put a sweater on (assuming it was cold) and then a sweatshirt (which I think she slept in). That's very real-life when a person is home, I put different clothes on and off often, so I liked the inclusion of that detail

I do that at home too. And it just seemed like something Willow would do to. I could so totally see her changing clothes at different times in the day. Plus it seemed to fit in with the cozy atmosphere I was trying for…

Speaking of details, it seems that they slept on the couch instead of in Willow's bed? That's nice - I'm glad they didn't do it while Spencer was there, not that I thought that was likely or anything, but when you started the post-sleeping scene with a morning scene I was wondering if it was a fade-out or what. Whew.

So I had you worried for a minute? maybe I am not sooo predictable after all. err or maybe I am.

Thank you for the feedback, sally.

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Allison ~

It's great how you describe Spencer's innocence. He was just playing in the living room unaware of what was going on between Willow and his mother

.

I’ve found that children don’t tend to pay a lot of attention to that type of thing.

Nice the idea when he called Willow "Lee-Lee". With a few words, you caught something deep, full of meaning. He doesn't have to talk about his feelings.

Thank you. I thought that was the way to go…it sort of let us into Spencer’s mindset without having to actually delve into his thoughts.

His words prove that he feels like home with Willow.

Exactly.

You must be yourself very romantic to manage to describe so much tenderness between Tara and Willow. You know, when I read the part when they fell asleep, I have the feeling that time has stopped. Nothing exists anymore. Just a family with two people in love. Like in a dream.

Aww that’s very nice of you. I like to think that I’m romantic….but I don’t know if my wife would say the same. Its easier to write about it for someone else than to actually live up to the standard you set, yourself. Know what I mean?

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Debra~

I love the feel of the date at Willow's house and the inclusion of Spencer in it. I didn't remember that Tara was afraid of heights. Poor her to throw-up on Willow. I'm pretty sure in that situation, I'd just be saying good-bye but she did a really good job recovering. I can't believe that she didn't tell Willow about it. I'm terrified of heights. I mean really. Like unable to move. I would hesitate to even visit someone in an apartment like that and wouldn't go within 3 feet of the balcony doors so I'm impressed that Tara would even go with Willow. I mean wow.

Thank you. And I know what you mean. I am deathly afraid of heights. I get queasy on the third wrung of a ladder. And I know what’s it’s like to freeze up. I can hardly drive over bridges because it pairs my two scariest things… water and heights.

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Guppy~ Hi there, sweetie. I’m glad that you like Spencer so much…’cos he’s fun to write for.

Thank you so much for your feedback!

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willow tara always ~

Sorry about the wait…I didn’t mean to make you cranky forgive me?

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Russ ~ Thank you for your detailed and thoughtful feedback. And I had some really great replies to it too…but I’m working on my laptop and just as I was finished typing it out the thing went funky and erased everything I hadn’t saved already. So I’ll just say this: You make some very good points.

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Grayson ~

Spencer in the Superman costume is too cute! When I was a kid I used to clothespin a towel around my neck like a cape and jump off the couch.

Aww that sounds sweet

I like that the drama/conflict in this story isn't extreme. It's two adults trying to figure out how to navigate dating when one of them is a single mother and the other is very tied up in her career. Tara has to think about how her actions will affect her son and has to put that above her own desires (though thankfully Spencer seems pretty happy with her Willow-related decisions so far). Willow is figuring out that her life has been empty and wants to fill it but needs to be careful not to scare Tara off.

Exactly.

I love the thoughtful steps they're taking, and I'm looking forward to watching their relationship progress. If they can survive Tara upchucking on Willow's dress, I think they're on the right track.

Hehe. I’d say that’s right.

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Chris ~

Well, pardon the pun, you made me smile

Hehe

Tara's height-induced incident was, well, not sweet in itself obviously, but she should have no doubt that Willow's interested in her for her. After all, there's plenty of woman around who haven't horfed up their dinner on her, but none of them are Tara, and that's what counts for Willow.

‘horfed’ is such a funny word

(It actually reminded me of a similar indicent, and the attached sentiment, in one of G.L. Dartt's Voyager stories, where Seven first discoveres the joys of party food, and shortly thereafter discovers the drawback of eating massive amounts of party food, with Janeway comforting her thoughout her intimate acquaintance with their bathroom.)

Well that’s just….lovely…hehe…hee…hee…

I like the tone of this story at the moment - it's not high-stakes drama, there's not mistaken identities and the girls misinterpreting each other and having depressed fits that they hate each other, there's not (so far anyway - I've got my eye on you, Logan) ex's showing up and deliberately screwing things up.

*hand on head* I think you might have spoke too soon… don’t worry, because no serious complications are going to arise…but there might be a few tiny complications to come. But what would life be without tiny complications…?
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Alex~ Thank you. And I’m glad I could help provide the “good feelings”
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Miss Shoe!

I've only just found this, and I can't work out why!

This is a lovely story, and I think Chris hit the nail on the head when he said it was "normal". It feels like something that could happen to me, or my friends, and each detail is absolutely possible and natural-feeling. Does that make sense? Probably not, but I blame the beauty of your writing which is blinding me to the finer points of coherant thought...

Thank you. Normal was exactly what I was going for And you have no idea how happy your wonderful comments have made me.
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Anna ~ Yay! It’s Anna!! WOOT! Wow look at you all making with the awesome feedback.

And…

Ok, just a little side note. I absolutely love your writing and the way you create the images within my imagination. Catching Sunflowers in Bloom
was an addictive flow of story that the end alone is what brought me back to the Kitten Board after being away for a long time.

Thank you for your time and ambition to make wonderful loving Willow/Tara stories that cannot be found anywhere else.

That is so sweet… Thank you so very much, Anna. Catching Sunflowers was my baby, and it’s so….I don’t know… wonderful, maybe? (sorry…I can’t seem to find the right words to express myself this morning..) that you felt that story enough to want to come back to the board. That’s just….wow… thank you, thank you, Anna. And I’m so glad you found your way back to us.
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Henny ~ You really loved it? *swoon* hehe
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Alyson Goddess ~ I’m sorry to hear about your computer limitations…but thank you for taking time to leave a few words here. It means a lot to me.
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Anna (Irishgirl) Hi sweetie. How are you? I’m glad you like the update and the pace the story’s going. *HUGS*

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With special thanks to these kittens for their everlasting support. I love you all.

Henny
Dianneswillowtree
Sandman
And Shy One

[Thianne]

WOO HOO!!! DIBS ON THE REPLIES TO FEEDBACK! hi Emmy
i hear there's an update almost ready, can't wait to read it!

H&K

ETA: and just so you know, my mom really did a wonderful job, but the sweetness is all mine

[kimmy_s]

oooo did someone say update??? i know i said no sex before but i didnt say no to cos i hope there is in the next update which i'm patiently waiting for....
kim xx

[DreamLover]

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[center]HENSTER[/center]