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Why I Write
When I write, I draw on my experiences as a woman with a painful past, a rapturous wife and mother, a world traveler, and a spiritualist. For me, writing is an art form. Like an artist, the work becomes more than I imagined it would be. When I set out to write a story with a particular idea or character in mind, words I cannot claim as my own flow from a magical and mysterious place through me and onto paper. The work takes on a life of its own; it is living art. The process fascinates me, satiates me, and makes my life more meaningful.
Please read my stories! If you would like to offer me feedback on my work, please click here and sign up for a free membership: https://heftynicki.Writing.com
I hope to see you there!
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Blog, Blog, Blog
 
Welcome!
 In 2011, my main focus will be on writing a novel. Since I'm a novice novelist, I've decided to come at the project from different angles, exploring the genre and experimenting with its elements. This blog and its offsite sister blog will be my journals where I attack novel-writing one day at a time.
As I was creating my BlogSpot page, the inspiration for the blog solidified in my mind. I named that blog "One Significant Moment at a Time." In essence, I want to use the format as a reminder to walk through my life with my author's eyes open, taking in the details, feeling the emotions of the day. As moments unfold and I feel their affects on me as a person, a woman, a mother, a sister, a member of the world community, I'll let the writer in me talk about it.
Creative Nonfiction is the genre most fitting to describe what I envision accomplishing here, moreso than blogging or journaling. The style is best suited, I feel, for my ambitions as a novelist.
In addition, Friday entries will not be written by me. Instead, I'll turn the keyboard over to one of the characters in my novel. He or she will relate the events of the day as s/he saw them, through the filter of his or her perception.
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2011 Reading Goal = 25 Books in 52 Weeks. To see the list of books I've read so far, CLICK HERE 
 Leave me a comment anytime ~ even on older postings!
Thanks for reading!!
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I made it to ‘Z’!! I’ve really enjoyed the A-Z Blogfest because it’s had me writing flash fiction every single day. I’m horribly burnt out and need a serious break, but it’s been a wonderful and wild ride. My heartfelt thanks to the talented Jessica Bell for coming up with the idea to practice ‘show, don’t tell’ skills using an A-Z list of emotion/feeling/state of mind prompt words. It was a brilliant concept, Jess!
And so, for the last time this year, you will find below a short excerpt in which a character depicts an emotion/feeling/state of mind, this time beginning with the letter ‘Z’. Can you guess, based on my writing, what that prompt word is? Leave your guess in the comments, and then follow the link to Jessica’s blog. Easy-peesy!
Here we go:
The parade snaked its way down the block toward the intersection of Piedmont and First. Colors sparkled under the morning sun, brightening the city as thumping Euro-dance music ebbed and flowed on the breeze. A cop stood under the traffic lights, directing the marchers around the right hand turn. His stoic face was chiseled in stone, his eyes hidden behind black aviator shades.
In the advancing crowd, a bearded man in a fluffy, flowered skirt passed by. Graying chest hair peeked out over the edge of his yellow tube top, and silver socks twinkled in the sun. He pushed a neon pink stroller with a beagle wearing a Hawaiian lei for a collar riding inside.
Behind him rode five scooters side-by-side. Each was a different color from the rainbow, and each driver was shirtless, his torso body-painted to match the color of his ride.
Partial nudity was a common sight. Some of the marchers wore chaps paired with g-string thongs. One opted for simply a pair of bootie shorts and a peacock tail, fashioned out of long, colorful, balloon artist’s balloons.
The cop stood, statue-still, silent. Three men dressed like butterflies flit over to him. “Here, honey!” one sang. “Here’s a little sparkle to brighten you up!” He dropped a beauty queen-style sash over the policeman’s head and let it drape across his chest before dancing off to rejoin his friends.
The cop looked down at the yellow sash with its rainbow sequin border. It bore one word: Pride. Despite himself, the cop grinned.
~~~~~~~~~~~
Any idea what ‘Z’ word I’ve depicted here? I look forward to your comments!
And a special, heartfelt shoutout to Ah, September!   : Thanks so much for sharing this blogfest experience with me! Your thoughts and comments each day have made it so enjoyable. Your support has meant the world to me!! 
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Thanks for all the wonderful Blogger/WDC visits yesterday! The prompt word was 'Xenophobia' -- and almost everyone got it right! Whoot!
Today, I have the Royal Wedding on my mind and had to tear myself from the TV to post this. I love watching happy history unfold! So, I've used a piece of flash fiction I wrote last year for today's excerpt. Although the piece overall reflects the prompt, I'm putting the section that best depicts the 'Y' emotion/feeling/state of mind word in colored text. (I hope it isn't distracting as you read!) Leave me a guess in the comments telling me what 'Y' word comes to mind.
Here goes:
Nora’s fingertips grazed the silky fabric on the bed. Grasping the nylon tank top, she straightened, then hyper-extended her back just enough to lay the shirt on her chest and fold it properly. Her nose twitched, and she stiffened.
She’d smelled Bradley’s sour scent before she heard him enter the doorway behind her. Laying the folded tank in the suitcase before her, she said, “No use sneaking up. I know you’re there.”
Willing her hand to steady, she reached for another fistful of clothing. A zipper jingled from the heavy fabric. Hoodie. She felt along the garment to locate the sleeves, and then laid it -- arms open wide -- across the suitcase. She imagined herself like that, living in the hoodie’s pose, embracing life. Her heart raced at the thought.
As Nora brought one sleeve across to fold the jacket in half, the weight of Bradley’s hand suddenly fell on her arm, fingers closing on Nora’s wrist with an iron grip. She jumped and winced, cowering.
He shook her. “I don’t remember telling you I said it was okay to go.”
His hot, ashtray breath chilled the beads of sweat that’d sprung across her upper lip. She pulled to free her arm but he yanked hard, jerking her forward. Pain shot up the inside to her armpit.
“Let her go.”
Nora’s head snapped in the direction of the doorway and her brother’s voice. The vice released her, and she stumbled against the bed.
“Who the hell do you think you are, Ron?” Bradley spat. “You can’t just waltz into my friggin’ house.”
“It’s my sister’s house too. She asked me to come up and help her with her packing.” Ron returned Bradley’s glare for two beats before he walked to Nora and kissed her cheek. “You ready to go?" he asked softly. Nora heard a smile enter his voice as he went on. "I’ve been waiting six months for you to cash in my birthday present to you.”
“What kind of a friggin' idiot takes a blind person rafting?” Bradley said with a sneer.
Ron snapped the suitcase shut and offered Nora his elbow. As she took it, he said, “I guess this kind does.”
The next afternoon, adrenalin pumping through her veins with a ferocity she’d never known, Nora grasped Ron’s hand as they stumbled out of the raft.
“That was fucking amazing!” Nora screeched. Her laughter melded with the sound of the bubbling river rushing through the canyon they’d just descended.
Ron hugged her. “See little sis, you can do anything you set your mind to. Your real handicap all these years hasn’t been your eyes.”
Nora stepped back and drew in a deep breath. Slowly, she reached her arms wide open, tilting her chin so the sun warmed the whole of her face. “When we get back to the hotel, make the call,” she said.
“Good,” Ron said. “My secretary has the papers drawn up. He’ll be served tomorrow.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Any idea what feeling or emotion I'm hinting at here with Nora? Looking forward to your comments. Happy Royal Wedding Day!
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Yesterday's A-Z prompt word was 'Wanton.' That was a fun one to write!!
It's the final stretch!! Today's 'X' prompt word is depicted by a character in the excerpt below. See if you can guess what emotion/feeling/state of mind I've described that begins with 'X'. (There really aren't many 'x' states of mind!) Can't wait to read your comments!
So without further ado, here is my entry for the day:
Las Vegas, Nevada. July 13, 1991. Ten o'clock a.m.
Brenda glared from behind the safety of her register counter at the crowd in the convenience store. Every aisle was clogged with wiry, dirty-looking young people, many dressed in ridiculous assortments of tie-dyed clothing. Long lines of them snaked from the restroom doors and down the length of coolers. Her eyes shifted when the men's room door opened and two barefoot girls in tube tops and peasant skirts emerged.
The bell over the entryway jingled and she turned her head in that direction. A tall man with no shirt and ratty dreadlocks to his waist bounced in, carrying a boom box on his shoulder. Sugar Magnolia blared. Heads began to bob. The girls in the tube tops broke out in a swaying dance that had their skirts swirling and jingle-bell anklets jangling.
"Hey you!" Brenda called out. "Turn that thing off in here!"
Damn you Mikey for calling in sick today. And damn you Jerry Garcia for spawning this generation of filthy, free-loading, hippie throw-backs. Once a year this circus descended for a weekend of Vegas shows, and every year it was the same. Not one of these losers will buy anything. They're here to take a piss and shove as many moon pies and beef jerky sticks down their pants as possible.
"Excuse me, miss?"
Brenda jumped, her heart clawing its way to her throat as her glare shot down to the man standing at the counter. His gray t-shirt may have started out green, but it was tattered and stained and looked like it hadn't seen a washing machine in months. Emerald eyes gazed at her from a bronzed and heavily bearded face. The faint aroma of marijuana floated around him.
"Yes, what do you want?" Brenda's voice quavered.
"I was just wondering if you could give me directions to the post office? I want to send my mom a post card. Tour's only half over and I miss her like crazy, you know?" His smiled sheepishly.
Brenda narrowed her eyes and wondered what he was up to.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
So what do you think? What state of mind/emotion/feeling have I described here?
Thanks for reading and have a wonderful day!
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Yesterday's A-Z prompt word was 'Vanity.' So many of you here and on Blogger.com guessed right, which is awesome feedback for me! Thanks everyone  !
Today's 'W' prompt word is depicted by a character in the excerpt below. See if you can guess what emotion/feeling/state of mind I've described that begins with 'W'. (This one may be tough, but I hope not!) Can't wait to read your comments!
Here's my 'W' entry:
Gobi Chanel breezed through the crowded nightclub as if she were the only person in the place. The Red Sea of dancing, drinking patrons sensed her presence or perhaps they smelled her perfume, for they parted before her, opening a pathway to the dance floor.
Under the sparkling mirrored ball, she began to move her hips. Her body swayed with serpentine grace, drawing every mesmerized eye in the room.
As the music regained its control on the crowd, it moved in and collapsed Gobi’s corridor. A tall man with mocha skin shimmied up to her. She narrowed her eyes in a gaze of seduction which the man acknowledged by placing his hands on her hips. They moved together, her hips grinding against his. When the song ended, he spun her into a dip.
The next song was up-tempo, and Gobi added some popping moves to her gyrations. She turned and found herself face-to-face with a muscular blond. Her moves mirrored his, and when he pulled her close to him, she pressed her curves against his chiseled chest.
And Gobi began to grind her hips.
Any ideas what emotion/feeling/state of mind I've described here? Love to hear your guesses! Thanks for reading and have a splendid day!
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Today's 'V' prompt word is depicted by a character in the excerpt below. See if you can guess what emotion/feeling/state of mind I've described that begins with 'V'. Can't wait to read your comments!
Here's my 'V' word entry:
The baby’s cries drifted into the room like smoke from the hallway.
Céline shifted her jaw, catching a mound of slick inner cheek flesh between her teeth, and concentrated all her effort on the task at hand. In the mirror, she watched.
The ivory handle of the brush felt warm in her hand. She relished the way the stiff bristles raked her head, massaging her scalp from the part at the center all the way to the base of her skull. Then as the brush sailed down the zip-line of long locks, she savored the delicious tug of follicles resisting the pressure, until the brush dropped off near her waist.
The baby’s cries were louder. He’d have to be patient. She was on the one hundred and sixty-nineth stroke; almost finished.
Céline tilted her head as she brushed. From this angle, the light played from the right, illuminating shimmers of scarlet flecks in the curtain of her chestnut hair. It gleamed, smooth and silky, like new Barbie doll hair.
She brushed from the back, dragging her hair forward and letting it drape around her. Stroke after stroke, she smoothed every strand into place until the bodice of her white nightgown was completely hidden beneath her hair. Five more strokes on each side and, there, she was finished.
In the mirror, Céline’s eyes roved her reflection, her crowning glory in a state of utter perfection. The baby continued to cry.
Céline sighed and stood up. “Coming, love.”
~~~~~~~~~~
Any ideas what emotion/feeling/state of mind Céline depicted in this excerpt? Looking forward to your guesses! And here's a link to Jessica's blog to read her 'V' word entry. See you over there!
Have a grand day and thanks for reading!
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I hope you had a wonderful weekend, and that those of you who celebrated Easter had a special holiday! Saturday's word was 'Terror' -- thanks for all your comments and guesses!
Today's 'U' prompt word is depicted by a character in the excerpt below. See if you can guess what emotion/feeling/state of mind I've described that begins with 'U'. Can't wait to read your comments!
Here's my excerpt:
“I don’t know why we chose this dreary restaurant. Do you remember? Is that so? A five-star chef, is he? Well, I just hope his food is better than the abominable service we’re getting. Where is that waitress? It doesn’t take a university level education to recognize a table full of hungry, wealthy people! Surely she knows her tip will be proportionate to her ability to get what we’ve ordered to us quickly. Yes, you’re right. I shouldn’t make assumptions! What’s that old adage? Makes an ass out of you and me? Ah, speaking of, here she is now.
“Miss, when you’re serving a table of women, like ours, do you know whose wine glass to fill first? No, I didn’t think you did. Here’s a tip. Serve the lady wearing the most expensive-looking jewelry!
“Joking! Just a little humor, ladies, come on. I always say, if you can’t giggle a little, you—hang on. Excuse me? What do you think you’re doing, miss? Yes, I can see you’re pouring the wine, but that doesn’t answer my question, does it now? Haven’t you any idea how to pour wine correctly? Don’t they train you people? No, I won’t let it slide, darling. This is supposed to be a fine dining establishment, with a reputable chef, and this silly waitress is pouring me expensive Bordeaux in a white wine glass.
“Miss, I’d like to speak to your manager. Yes, right now. Run along and fetch him, this instant. Unbelievable, am I right? Darling! I just noticed your handbag. My goodness, it’s gorgeous. Is that from Gucci’s spring line? It’s been under wraps, how on earth did you manage to…?”
*******
Any idea what emotion/feeling/state of mind I've 'shown' in the dialog above? I'd love to read your guess in the comments.
Have a wonderful day and thanks for reading!!
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Thanks to those who popped in yesterday! The prompt word I worked from was 'Selfishness.'
Today I'm borrowing a little scene from a short story I wrote a couple years back, starring characters Michael and Kaitlyn. This excerpt depicts the 'T' word Jessica Bell and I are using to prompt our entries today. Can you guess what emotion/feeling/state of mind that begins with 'T' it showcases?
Looking forward to your guesses! Here goes:
Melted snow from higher elevations had swelled the river to twice its normal size. Above them, raging water rushed over a promontory and crashed in billows of roiling white foam fifteen feet below. The noise was deafening. Kaitlyn pulled her camera from her pack and began snapping pictures. The air was much cooler here, and after a few minutes they turned to go.
"God! It's beautiful here," Kaitlyn sighed when they could hear each other again. Then, she sucked in her breath.
Following her gaze, Michael saw the brightly colored butterfly she had spotted. She raised the camera to her eye as it settled on a trillium bush. No sooner had she focused the lens than the butterfly took flight again. Kaitlyn stepped off the path in pursuit of it.
Closer and closer to the river, the insect flitted from one blossom to the next. Finally, it landed on a branch at the water's edge. Looking through the lens of the camera, Kaitlyn edged closer.
Michael called out, "That's close enough, Kait," but his voice was lost to the river.
As she snapped the picture, her foot slipped on the moist embankment. She let out a high-pitched yelp that barely made it to Michael's ears. All he saw was one of Kaitlyn's arms shoot out awkwardly before she disappeared below the bank.
Michael sprang into action even before his mind had time to process what had happened. He sprinted toward the river, ploughing through branches that tore at his face, shouting Kaitlyn's name. She was nowhere to be seen. He searched the white water churning with the vengeance of a stampede of beasts, mirroring the panic coursing through his body. Suddenly, Kaitlyn's head broke the surface of the water several yards away. There was an outcropping of rock visible further downstream, and Michael bolted for it.
"Swim for me!" he shouted as he ran, never taking his eyes off her. He threw himself onto the rock's edge, yelling, "Kaitlyn! Grab my hand!" He was flat on his stomach, reaching as far out over the water as he could manage, as the fast-paced current carried Kaitlyn toward him.
Fright etched furrows into her contorted face. She could see Michael's hand but she was powerless over the current dictating her trajectory. The river slammed her like a rag doll against a rock, pitching her violently under the water. When she resurfaced moments later, she was heading straight for Michael.
Kaitlyn was floating impotently past Michael, but she managed to stretch her hand out. With astonishing timing, Michael heaved his weight forward and caught her firmly around the wrist. She dangled heavily there, her frightened eyes locked with his. Michael's nightmare from years ago was brutally triggered, and fear threatened to rob him of brawn and confidence. He forced the old memory out of his mind and his resolution stoked his strength.
"I've got you, baby! I've got you!" he gasped. Fighting the current and the water-logged weight of her pack, he struggled to pull her in. It wasn't until he got his hand around the back of her belt, that he realized he had denied the arrogating river of its quarry.
I'd love to read which emotion/feeling/state of mind that begins with 'T' you've guessed.
Thanks for reading!!
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Today, I'm combining my A-Z blogfest challenge with Jessica Bell and the third and final writing challenge for the Writer's Platform Building Crusade. So, my prompt today is:
In 300 words or less, write a passage that shows (rather than tells) a character exhibiting an emotion/feeling/state of mind that begins with the letter 'S', and that incorporates the following additional prompts:
· you're scared and hungry
· it's dusk
· you think someone is following you
· and just for fun, see if you can involve all five senses AND include these random words: shimmer, saccadic, substance, and salt.
Here's my offering:
Carmen’s stomach rumbling cut through the stillness of the darkening park. She’d left raw steaks out when she’d stormed off. A scolding voice whispered it was messed up to be more concerned about that than about hurting Ted’s feelings. She shushed that voice.
Scowling up at the last shimmer of pink in the sky, Carmen pictured Ted at home, lounging in his comfortable Lay-Z-Boy, that stupid textbook in his hand. In her diva voice, the one she normally reserved for the stage, she sang out, “His eyes dancing a seductive saccade across the pages.” How many seductive dances did she have to perform to get him to notice her again? Since he started back at school, she’d become invisible, just a person to cook and clean for him. Well, to hell with him and his dreams of being a scholar, a man of substance. Please.
She kicked a rock on the path as she walked, listening to it tumble along the cobblestone. A twig snapped.
The hairs on the back of her neck bristled. She spun around, but no one was there.
Carmen breathed deep. Get a grip. She fancied she smelled the briny mist of the seashore, but that was impossible this far inland. She probably just craved salt. She could almost taste those steaks – damn you, Ted -- and another peal of thunder rolled through her stomach.
Snap
Carmen turned, eyes wide. “Who’s there?” she demanded. Her cotton t-shirt felt damp under the arms.
Movement, in the shadows.
An explosion of panic burst in Carmen’s gut and she bolted for the park entrance. As she ran, her thoughts cut to Ted. Won’t he be sorry if something tragic happened to her? Misery would eat at him each time he’d speak her name, or tell people how important she'd been to him, all the while knowing in his heart how he’d ignored her, treated her like a common possession. He’d realize he’d lost the precious thing she was.
Carmen slowed, and then stopped. Turning, she peered back into the shadows.
********
Any guesses what 'S' emotion/feeling/state of mind Carmen has exhibited? Won't you leave your guesses in the comment section? I love hearing from you!
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Today's 'R' prompt word is depicted by a character in the excerpt below. See if you can guess what emotion I've described that begins with 'R'. Can't wait to read your comments!
Here goes:
From his sprawled position on the ground, Hamilton grinned as the referee raise the yellow card in the air. But when he pointed down at Hamilton, his face contorted. “You’re calling foul on me?” he roared at the ref. “Number Four tripped ME!”
He sprang to his feet, his cleats leaving scars in the grassy turf. He strode to the referee who faced the scorekeeping table on the sideline. Into the ref’s right ear, he shouted, “What kind of call is this, hey? I think you need glasses, chief. You can’t see right!” Spittle landed on the referee’s sideburn.
The ref looked him in the face, warned him to settle down. Hamilton fired one more insult.
“Their shit team put you on their goddamn payroll before the match?” He turned to walk back to his position, but the ref was right on his heels. Over his shoulder, Hamilton saw the flash of the red card. Lava churned in his gut and he stamped his foot, releasing a tirade too foul to reprint here.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
What emotion do you think I've described here? Won't you leave your guess in the comments? I love hearing from you!
Thanks for reading and have a great day! |
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Yesterday's 'P' word was 'Patronization.' That was a tough one for me to write about. Thanks for your guess!
Today's 'Q' prompt word is depicted by a character in the excerpt below. See if you can guess what personal attribute I've described that begins with 'Q'. Can't wait to read your comments!
Here goes:
“I’m so glad you’re here, Sara!” Libby squealed, yanking her friend into the apartment. “I simply can’t decide who to wear to the party.” She led Sara down the narrow corridor and into the tight confines of her bedroom.
“Well,” Sara said, perched on the edge of the bed, “It’s casual…”
“Right.” Libby rubbed her chin and looked thoughtfully into her closet. She pulled out a pink mohair sweater with a second hanger hooked behind it, so that a pink and black plaid skirt dangled below the sweater’s hem. “What about Charlotte?”
“Charlotte?”
Libby held the outfit up a little higher. “Yes, right here. Hello?”
Sara stared at the clothes with a look of confusion on her face.
“You’re right,” sighed Libby. “Charlotte went to the Robert twins’ party three weeks ago. She’d be recognized, n’est-ce pas? Ooh! I know.” She reached back into the closet. “What about Zandra? She’s a hoot at parties!”
Sara’s eyes traveled from the sleeveless, zebra-striped mini-dress to Libby’s animated face, and simply shook her head. “You are the kookiest friend I have,” she said with a giggle.
“Aw! Thanks, Sara!" She held the dress up to herself. "So…Zandra comes to the party with us?”
Any ideas what 'Q' word prompted this scene?
Thanks for reading and have a great day!
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Today I'm showcasing an excerpt I wrote for a prompt word that starts with 'P.' After reading the passage below, can you determine which emotion/feeling/state of mind I've depicted?
Here is goes:
Though Jonathon and Bobby were fraternal twins, their lives were one long string of competitions. Bobby was a minute y0unger, a quarter of an inch shorter, and a half a grade point average behind his brother. And Jonathon enjoyed reminding him.
They’d trained together for months for the half-marathon, and for the first time ever Bobby was the stronger. On the track or in the gym, he out-sprinted and out-lifted Jonathon. This time, he was going to be victorious.
But as they flew across the finish line the day of the race, Jonathon’s chest broke the plane a half second before Bobby’s.
Bobby bent over with his hands on his thighs and hung his head, gasping for breath. Panting, Jonathon clapped a hand on his shoulder.
“Don’t take it too hard, bro,” he gloated. “Even I thought you were going to beat me, for a minute there.”
So, what 'P' emotion/feeling/state of mind does this excerpt make you think of? Thanks for reading!
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Today my off-site writing partner,Jessica Bell and I are showcasing excerpts we wrote for a prompt word that starts with 'O.' After reading the passage below, can you determine which emotion/feeling/state of mind I've depicted? After you guess in the comments, please follow the link to Jessica's blog and read her offering!
Here's my 'O' entry:
Reverend James loomed over his daughter, his shadow falling across her slender form. “Where do you think you’re off to at this hour, Andrea?” His voice was dangerously quiet.
“It's only four o'clock, Daddy. I’m going jeans shopping with Karen. Mama said I could.” She added the last part in a rush.
Reverend chewed on his inner cheek, shifting his lower jaw which heightened the look of disgust on his face. Slowly, he shook his head. “I forbid you to go to that shopping mall without an adult chaperone. You’re too young to handle yourself with the crowd of people that hang out there like it’s a tavern, or something.
“Daddy, I’m almost seventeen years old!”
“My point exactly,” he roared. When she’d lowered her eyes, he went on. “I want you to go upstairs. Wash that silly make-up off your face. Then, you’ll retire to your bedroom for the rest of the evening. Spend time on your knees, girl, asking God for guidance. When you have thought long and hard about the mischievous yearnings in your heart, then – and only then – will you come to my office and ask my forgiveness. Understood?”
A car honked on the street. Reverend James narrowed his eyes at his daughter, then nodded his head. Andrea reached for the door handle and swung open the door. Karen leaned across the front seat of her beat-up Chevy, a gift from her parents when she turned sixteen, and waved from the driver’s side. Andrea smiled as a tear ran down her cheek, and she waved Karen on.
Any guesses?
Thanks for reading and have a fantastic day!!
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Yesterday ended the second writing challenge for the WDC Survivor game. Our challenge was to write a short story in EXACTLY 1,254 words (verified by Microsoft Word) that is told from the perspective of an article of clothing. If you can wear it, it can be your POV.
I chose to tell a rather harrowing, real life story that happened to my husband in Africa, from the perspective of his wedding ring. We were newly-weds when this event took place, and I shudder to think how differently everything could have turned out. He could have been killed, our children would never have been born, I would have a totally different life right now. Crazy!
I'd love for you to read my little offering. When voting opens tomorrow, I hope you'll vote for me, to help keep me in the competition. Every round I don't get 'voted off,' I earn GPs for Rising Stars!!
Here's my short entry: "L'Alliance (The Wedding Ring) ~ Challenge #2"
And here's all my Survivor work:
Hope you're having a great Sunday!
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Hard to believe we've reached the half-way mark of this crazy A-Z ride! I've been having a blast working off the same list of prompt words as Jessica Bell. My partner-in-prose and I create short excerpts 'showing' the emotion/feeling/state of mind that is our letter-word of the day. We've been asking our readers to try and guess the word we've depicted. I've been having a blast, and I hope you've been enjoying the game, too!
Yesterday's word was 'Madness.'
Without further ado, I give you my 'N' entry:
"Wal-mart, Customer Service. This is Brenda speaking." Bored monotone.
"Good morning! My name is Mary Manning, and yesterday I was in your store because I wanted to print some pictures with the self-serve machines. Well, I got my camera out but then I realized the 'Prints-in-minutes' machines were out-of-order and only the 'Prints-in-an-hour' machine was available. See, I didn't have an hour, 'cause I -- well, I won't bore you with my life story." Giggles.
Silence.
"So anyways, I've turned my house upside-down this morning searching for my camera, and I can't find it. It's not in my purse, or in my car. I've looked everywhere! I have a very bad feeling I set it down next to the photo machines when I was in Wal-mart trying to figure out what to do, and left it behind by accident. Did anyone turned in a digital camera?"
"No, miss."
"Huh. Are you sure? I mean, I can hold if you want to look around. I really need my camera back."
"No one turned in a camera. I'm sure."
"Well, okay. Darn it." Pause. "I tell you what, let me give you my name and phone number, in case someone found it and just didn't have time to turn it in."
Snort. "If you insist, miss. Go ahead."
There you go! Any idea what emotion/feeling/state of mind I've depicted here? Go ahead and guess in the comments. 
Thanks for reading and I hope you have a fantastic weekend!!
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This week is crazy and I have been writing like a fiend. Fun! Yesterday's word. It was 'Lust.'
Today, guess which 'M' emotion/feeling/state of mind I've depicted in the short fictional passage below. My cyber-BFF Jessica Bell is using the same prompt word for a passage of her own.
Here is my 'M' entry:
Stacy Johnson’s mouth dropped open as she exited the car. From her vantage point on the make-shift parking lot, it looked like total mayhem had broken out on the sweeping front lawn of the middle school. Children ran after each other in every direction, some in packs of four or five. Many looked wet. Their shrill laughter rose and fell like waves in the heavy breeze.
Stacy headed for the groups of parent onlookers. As she drew closer, she noticed the there was some order to the craziness. On the ground at the center of the lawn was a large fifteen-foot-across circle of neon pink plastic tubing. The children inside the circle chased each other with shaving cream, managing to always stay within the perimeter. Mr. Mathis, the gym teacher, supervised the antics, and offered water balloons to kids without cans of shaving cream. Everyone was a sopping mess!
Outside the pink circle, the rest of the kids raced around, jumping rope, running sack races, playing catch, turning cartwheels. I caught glimpses of teachers joining in the fun while guiding the activities best they could. When a whistle blew, the inner circle kids raced out and a fresh, dry batch of children took their places.
A parent noticed Stacy’s look of confused awe. “Haven’t you been to Field Day before?” she asked. When Stacy shook her head, she went on. “The teachers call it ‘controlled chaos.’ The kids just call it ‘fun’!”
“I call it ‘m--’” Stacy was stunned into silence. A stray water balloon had exploded on her shoulder.
Any guesses? Hope you all have a wonderful Friday!
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Yesterday's post described 'Kindness.' Almost everyone guessed that, or 'karma,' which I think fits too!
Today, my passage involves a lot of emotions. To successfully guess the 'L' emotion/feeling/state of mind, you have to look past the POV (it's not her!) and pay special attention to Jennifer and Jonathon. Ready? Here goes:
“Your table is ready.”
I followed my sister and the hostess. I watched Jennifer command attention as she sauntered; her slim hips swayed exaggeratedly with each step, tracing slow, deliberate figure-eight patterns. Infinity. The hostess handed us oversized, leather-bound menus as we took our seats.
“Bring us a bottle of Chateau Margaux 1982, if you have it,” Jennifer commanded.
I looked at my watch. 11:50 a.m. What the hell, I thought. A drink is probably a good idea...
The hostess said she’d ask our waitress to bring a bottle, but Jennifer had already dismissed her. “So,” Jenn addressed me. “Can you believe we’re planning Mom’s retirement party?”
It was never easy for me to talk with Jennifer about our mother. Although I was barely one year older than her, we hadn’t been reared in the same way. Maybe it was because Mom identified more with Jennifer’s easy laugh or spontaneous personality, or because she just assumed my independent streak needed little nurturing. Whatever it was, Mom’s affections had always been aimed foremost at Jenn. As an adult, I’d rationalized it and made peace with it; but when I was face to face with either of them, I still struggled to ward off the painful memories of being the invisible child.
“Yeah,” I began, “I was thinking of renting out that little Victorian restaurant she loves--” I was interrupted by a man who had stopped at our table.
“Excuse me,” he said to Jenn. “Aren’t you Mandy Goliath?”
My sister smiled salaciously at him. “Why, yes. How sweet of you to recognize me,” she added coyly.
“I’m a big fan of your work.” They hadn’t broken eye contact.
“I’ll bet you are big,” she breathed. I looked at my watch again. He seemed to notice me for the first time.
“Jonathon Shill.” He extended his hand to me.
“Dr. Nadia Beaulieu,” I said, shaking his hand.
“Doctor?” He sounded impressed.
“Oh! She’s not really a doctor,” laughed my sister. “She just teaches at the University of Albany!”
The man had lost interest in me the moment my sister spoke. They conversed a couple more minutes, and then he told her it was a pleasure to meet her. As he was taking his leave, my sister offered him a kiss. He leaned down and she kissed him long on the mouth. Shocked, I glimpsed their groping tongues before looking away.
The waitress arrived, thankfully, with the bottle of wine.
*~*~*~*
Any guesses what 'L' emotion/etc. Jenn and Jon have exhibited? I love reading your comments each day. Keep them coming!
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Yesterday's 'J' word was 'Jealousy.' Thanks for all your wonderful comments and guesses!
Today, guess which 'K' emotion/feeling/state of mind I've depicted today in the short fictional passage below. Jessica Bell is using the same prompt word for a passage of her own. After guessing in the comments here, won't you follow the link and read Jess's entry?
Here's my 'K' offering:
Bradley chased the soccer ball, bouncing toward the far corner of the playground. As he neared, a soft whimper carried on the noontime breeze. He slowed, then peeked around the trunk of the huge oak at the fence. Lydia Vance sat, her back against the rough bark and her hands in her face.
Lydia was the fairest child in Jackson Elementary. If her eyes had been pink, she’d have been a full-fledged albino. She stuck out, and kids can be cruel.
“Dude! Hurry up!” his friends shouted.
Bradley picked up the ball and turned towards them, then looked back at Lydia. He’d never actually talked to her before.
Lydia’s shoulders heaved. She looked small, vulnerable, like a scared little bunny rabbit. The boys yelled again, something about needing the ball before graduation. Bradley hurled it in their direction, then shoved his hands in his pockets.
Taking a small step forward, he said, “Um, hey. Er, are you all right? I mean, anything I can do?”
*~*~*~*
Thanks for visiting!
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I'm so happy my off-site writing partner, Jessica Bell had the insanely creative idea to use the A-Z Blogfest (on Blogger.com) as an experimental canvas for 'showing' emotions/feelings/states of mind. And I'm thrilled she asked me to play along with her! We're working with the same list of prompt words and using them to inspire our fiction or poetry.
Today, our prompt word begins with 'J'. Based on the poem below, can you guess what emotion/etc. I've depicted? Looking forward to your guesses in the comments! Here goes:
A wicked temptress stalks her prey tonight,
With graceful gait, hips sway to generate
Heart’s sweet desires; mine slowly swells with hate,
The fires of lust sparked in the dark ignite.
Across the room the albatross takes flight,
As if on feathered feet she floats; too late
To stop her stealth approach toward my date,
I sense at once she has him in her sight.
A brush of lips, he whispers in my ear,
I turn; my face is mirrored in his eyes,
Words uttered so no one will overhear,
His hands direct me, to the door they steer,
Last glance I see her glare and realize,
Her jealousy's not veiled by silent jeer.
Any idea what emotion inspired this poem? (Hint: This is right out of my port, if it sounds familiar. I wrote this a couple years ago prompted by the same word, and it appears in this poem :D)
BTW, this is a Petrarchan, or Italian Sonnet. A Petrarchan Sonnet is a fourteen line poem distinguished by its strict iambic pentameter and rigid rhyme scheme: abba abba cdc cdc (Sicilian sestet). The first eight line stanza, the octave, establishes the theme and developes the poem in a certain direction. The ninth line is the turn which heralds a distinct change in tone from the octave. The second stanza, or the sestet, introduces a new development in a different direction, with the first tercet carrying this new direction to a definite point; and the final tercet bringing the theme to a conclusion.
Thanks for stopping by!
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Today, guess which emotion/feeling/state of mind that begins with the letter 'I' that I've depicted today in the short fictional passage below. (And, can you tell my inspiration was running low?  )
Here goes:
The writer stared at her computer screen. The cursor blinked, accusingly, next to the one character she’d managed to type. ‘I’. She sighed, her mind wandering to her to-do list, which was short today. She forced her attention back. ‘I’. What a silly prompt. It’s a letter yet a word all by itself. Big deal. She lifted her fingers off the keyboard, examined a bit of polish chipped off one nail, then lay them back into the grooves of ‘a’, ‘s’, ‘d’, ‘f’, ‘j’, ‘k’, ‘l’, and semi-colon. ‘I’. What could she say about ‘I’. She had no opinion, one way or another. The only thing she cared about what getting something, anything, written down.
Any guesses?
Thanks for reading! |
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Guess which emotion/feeling/state of mind that begins with 'H' I've depicted today in the short fictional passage below.
3:00
Marnie pushed the start button on the microwave timer.
2:59…58…57…
She kept her gaze on the changing numbers, forcing her eyes not to drift towards the stick, lying on the table on a single sheet of paper towels. She’d been waiting fourteen months. It was a long time to wait. But nothing felt longer than these last three minutes.
2:28…27…26…
She and Chad had begun trying on their wedding night. They kept it no secret, confiding in anyone who would listen. Friends and family asked every time they saw them. And it had gotten more and more painful to keep saying, ‘No, nothing yet.’
2:02…2:00…1:58…
Marnie wrung her hands until they nested all by themselves into a prayful clasp. Please, God…I know it’s wrong to ask. I know I must accept your will. But if you let it be, if you just let it be…please let it be…
1:40…39…38…
The morning of their first wedding anniversary, her temperature had peaked and then dropped off. Conditions were perfect, and they took full advantage. But being it was their anniversary, they’d forgotten about the thermometer and the ovulation charts on the bedside table and had gotten blissfully lost in their love. Three weeks later, Marnie got her period.
:57…56…55…
Look, if it isn’t meant to be, it isn’t meant to be. Think of all the unwanted children born into the world every day. There is more than one path that leads to parenthood. You’re young. You have your whole life…
:23…22…21…
The glowing numbers swam, ran together, and Marnie blinked rapidly. Oh, to feel a baby move inside her, to waddle beneath the weight of a gloriously swollen belly, to face the fear and pain of delivery, all to see born a perfect product of her and Chad’s love. It was the last chance to see their genes mixed, their blood mingled, for Chad’s legacy to live on.
:11…10…09…
Marnie closed her eyes tight. She wished Chad were here. He would have been so supportive. Tears leaked from squeezed lids, spilled down her cheeks. “Please,” she whispered.
Beep...Beep...Beep...
So, what emotion/etc. have I depicted here? I look forward to your comments!
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Comment • View 1 comment 
Where'd Ashy go??)~
