Years ago, I linked up with Charli Mills and joined her community of writers in Carrot Ranch, randomly participating in her weekly 99-word flash fiction challenges. Initially I thought these were simply fun things to do and often her prompts not only lead to a story, but a corresponding blog post as well. What I... Continue Reading →
The Jolly Lively Elf Is On His Way
Charli Mills’ December 17, 2020 Flash Fiction Challenge is to write a story in 99 words (no more, no less) that features stilettos. Who will wear them and why? And as always, she suggests we go where the prompt leads us. I have never worn or owned a pair of stilettos, shoes named after a... Continue Reading →
Foraged from Ashes
“Here’s something. Remember the big wildfire that was in the news last year?” asked Jim rustling his newspaper. “Yup,” said Gladys rolling the pastry dough. “Well apparently this young couple spent their winter months felling and milling lifeless tree trunks from their barren woodlot.” “What for? That charred looking grove will be filled with beautiful... Continue Reading →
#FLASH4STORMS
One of my fellow Carrot Ranch Literary Community writers, Sarah Brentyn of Lemon Shark launched a wonderful initiative. In 50 words or less, we are to write a flash fiction story that includes the theme of help. It’s all for a good cause – relief efforts for the massive destruction left behind by the hurricanes Harvey,... Continue Reading →
Harvest Moon
Jess gazed over the hushed hayfields, twilight cradling them with a golden haze. He was happy. They had finished cutting the last of the fields today. They could start baling the day after tomorrow. And now there was the aroma of Sally’s roast beckoning him from the kitchen. Suddenly Jess grabbed two blankets from the... Continue Reading →
Meddling
“Dennis tells me Erin is getting married,” said Jim, dropping the grocery bag onto the counter. “Oh Veronica must be thrilled,” said Gladys. “She’s had her daughter’s grandiose wedding planned for years.” “Apparently Erin’s all upset about it. She and Jason want a simple ceremony on Blueberry Hill where they met.” “And so they should,” huffed... Continue Reading →