It's My Write

The Scariest Day Ever

2011-12-23T14:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas was coming in one day. Frank
had been naughty, not nice. He hoped Santa wouldn't know. He pulled
cats tails, spooked dogs, and tormented his sister. When Christmas
morning came, Frank opened the biggest present as he snickered with
delight. Grinning between bits of festive colored tinsle, a white
skull glared back at Frank.

Have a scary, Merry Christmas everyone. If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Be jolly! Donnetta

(P.S. My grandson, Thad, helped me with this scary Christmas story.)

Miss Princess

2011-10-28T16:37:00.000-07:00

Today my little Princess kitty cat had to be put to sleep. The vet could not fully determine what was wrong with her without doing extensive, expensive, invasive tests. She simply stopped eating and drinking. I tried having her hydrated, some medicine, force feeding, and so on. Nothing helped. Nothing gave her an appetite. Last night she slept right by head and purred all night. She kept her paw on my cheek. I will miss her so much. She was ten years old. My sweet little white kitty.

On the Wire

2011-10-14T17:28:00.000-07:00

Listening to Leon Russell sing “Tight Rope” tonight. Remembering “the day” and missing my youth. Thinking of how the years have trickled down and floated away. Desperately wishing I had them back. Hoping there is a future. Growing ambivalent about that. Tiptoeing on a thin line. Telling myself, “Baby, you're just too blind to see.”

Blue night. Maybe it's the moon. Too many memories. Too many bad decisions. Don't know which way to turn. Walking that rope. Balancing act. Hope everyone has a better weekend than my Friday night happens to be. Be decisive. Be daring. Be hopeful.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story you would like to share. D

Savory

2011-10-07T18:20:00.000-07:00

Tonight, the table was set in honor of granddaughter Sally's engagement.

Prospective groom Tom was handsome, but Granny didn't like his constant belittling Sally.

Granny set the table paying particular attention to Tom's plate, sprinkling special herbs on his salad.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a great fall weekend and be cool. Donnetta

Reality Check

2011-10-05T16:27:00.000-07:00

OH, LORDY! I GOT A NEW PUPPY!!!! WHAT HAVE I DONE????

Oh, my. We've had two peepee accidents and two poopoo accidents so far this week. We do not like the leash. We do not like the puppy gate. We know how to look pitiful. We know how to whine. We like our toys. We like to play fetch. We like to bark at anything outside. We are scared of the white cat. We are driving our mama crazy! But, darn, we are sweet.

Sebastian

2011-09-30T18:45:00.000-07:00

I GOT A NEW PUPPY. I GOT A NEW PUPPY. I GOT A NEW PUPPY. I GOT A NEW PUPPY. I GOT A NEW PUPPY. I GOT A NEW PUPPY. I GOT A NEW PUPPY. I GOT A NEW PUPPY. I GOT A NEW PUPPY. I GOT A NEW PUPPY. I GOT A NEW PUPPY.

His name is "Sebastian Donovan." Named after the Nora Roberts' character in her books about the Donovan family. These are pictures that look like him as I haven't been able to take any yet. He got his first grooming today and looks very much like the picture to the left--especially his cut and color. His face looks a little bit more like the top two pictures. Sure will be glad to get the potty training taken care of. He's a Yorkie.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All and let him know if you have a Friday Flash 55 story you would like to share. Be incredible. Have a wiggy waggy weekend. D

The Beast

2011-09-23T18:47:00.000-07:00

The monstrous worm gnawed its way through everything in its path. It ate anything of substance, spitting out undesirable bits as it went, vomiting and spewing semi-digested particles. Ruthless and vicious, it advanced uncaring and unstoppable. It crunched. It consumed. It was insatiable.

Frustrated, Brian dropped the mouse. "Claire," he called. "Darned computer crashed again."

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story you would like to share. Have a stunning weekend. Be gallant. Donnetta

Up on the Roof

2011-08-26T17:18:00.000-07:00

Kylie cowered in the corner of the small bedroom, pulling the blanket over her head.

Thump. Thump. Thump.

She shivered, casting her eyes upward to the ceiling.

It had been on the roof for over an hour. And now the footsteps were above her room.

Thump. Thump.

Thump.

She wondered if the window was locked.

Be sure to visit G-Man, Galen at Mr. Know It All (sidebar) if you have written a Friday Flash 55 short story that you would like to share. Have a delightful weekend. Be content. Donnetta

Descent

2011-08-19T18:56:00.001-07:00

Ben couldn't stop falling. He felt the wind kissing his face, purring in his ear like a kitten. If he hadn't been so afraid, he might have thought it a pleasant sensation. Arms and legs akimbo, he flailed wildly trying to catch hold of something-anything. No lifesaver to grab. Only nightmare descent. Parachute failed.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have an honest weekend. Be worthy. Donnetta

OPERATION

2011-08-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

The grueling surgery had taken hours. Happily, the patient appeared to be holding her own. All vital signs were sound. She was young and strong.

“All closed up,” the nurse announced, smiling.

The exhausted surgeon sighed and scratched his forehead, bewildered. He glanced around anxiously.

“Now where did I put that d****d scalpel?” He muttered.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a T-riffic weekend. B-good. Donnetta

Talking to Matthew

2011-08-04T17:25:00.000-07:00

Katherine dabbed a tear. “Do you miss me?”

“More than anything.”

Katherine felt like sobbing, but stayed the flood with effort. “I miss you so.”

“Someday. We'll be together again. I promise.”

Katherine withdrew the money from her purse.

The psychic nodded. “Perhaps he'll speak with us longer next time.”

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 short story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All (sidebar). Have a wistful weekend. Be kind. Donnetta

Just Like Mommy

2011-07-29T17:57:00.000-07:00

The baby was six months old. She was perfect, her mother thought. Who wouldn't love such an angel? She was already sleeping through the night.

She looked like her mommy. Soft brown curls. Sweet lips. Bright blue eyes. Genetics were wonderful.

All curled up in a pink ball. The five inch tail was hardly noticable.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All (see side bar) and let him know. Have an unusual weekend. Be different. D

WONDERING AND WANDERING: LAUGH AND THE WORLD LAUGHS WITH YOU

2011-07-27T15:01:00.000-07:00

There is nothing quite like being down in the dumps. Sometimes the blues will hit and pass within an hour. Other times, an incredible sadness can settle in and linger for a long, long time. Of course, that's when being a bit down turns into depression. We've all been there, done that at some point in our lives. Life can feel tragic. Sometimes the most appropriate help is to see a doctor or a psychologist. Medications abound. And the talking cure just might do some good. But most of us experience typical ups and downs of everyday life much more frequently than we do those depths of hell feelings. So how can we battle the plain old vanilla blues?

One of the best, easiest ways for a quick pick-me-up is simply laughing. I was watching something on television a few days ago about the benefits of laughter. According this presentation, even if your laughter is forced, you receive benefit from it. Hey, whatever works. I am smiling now as I write this. Am I just happy this evening? No, not really. Sigh. But I'm going to keep grinning from ear to ear and toss out a giggle or two for therapeutic purposes.

Here is a list of the positive results laughter can bring. Laughter can

Attract positive people to us and help us build relationships.
Lift our mood.
Relax muscles and decrease aches and pains.
Build immunity, lower blood pressure, and promote a healthy body.
Lower the chances of conflicts and negative outcomes.
Add joy to our lives.
Lesson the effects of fear and anxiety.
Put inhibitions on the back burner so that we can express ourselves honestly.
Boost memory skills.
Protect us from stress.
Enhance creativity.

How can we promote laughter? As I said before, force it if you must. It may soon come to you effortlessly. Watch funny movies. Talk about comical situations that you experienced in the past. Read books that make you smile. Call a friend who is known for her sense of humor. If all else fails, laugh at yourself.

Yes, I'm still smiling.

Nat King Cole Smile Lyrics

Smile though your heart is aching
Smile even though it's breaking
When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by
If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You'll see the sun come shining through for you

Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near
That's the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what's the use of crying?
You'll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile

That's the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what's the use of crying?
You'll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile

To Sleep Perchance to Dream

2011-07-22T18:18:00.000-07:00

Verdant leaves speckled with red roses. Lady bugs. Caterpillars. Snakes. Rattlers...

Wake up, Amanda!

White pillowed clouds. Blue sky. Flying. Falling, falling...

Amanda, wake up!

Humming birds flittering. Dogs barking. Horses galloping. Monsters drooling...

Wake now, Amanda!

Sprinkling droplets pattering. Thunder. Lightning. Downpour. Flood. Drowning...

Amanda, now! Wake up

Sunset. Darkness. Blackness. Smothering...

Amanda! Amanda!

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a cool weekend. Be lighthearted. Donnetta

Read Your Bible

2011-02-25T14:54:00.000-08:00

Entering George's study, Karen was shocked.

George was a Bible thumping preacher. Proud, until the day before, when Karen caught him searching the internet for pornographic pictures.

She had chided.

Guilt seeped in.

In despair, he turned his bloody face to her, “If thine doth offend thee, pluck it out.”

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a curious weekend. Donnetta

Scared Stiff

2011-02-18T18:47:00.000-08:00

Mickey willed himself to be still.

The monster hovered above him.

Sweat slithered from the top of Mickey's head down. He shivered as the monstrosity prepared to lurch. It's throaty growl was horrendous. It meant to get him. How long could Mickey stay here without moving?

“Sylvester,” his mistress scolded. “Get away from that mouse!”

Be sure to visit Galen, G-Man, at Mr. Know It All (see sidebar) and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a laughable weekend. Be tickled. D

Guilty

2011-02-11T18:01:00.000-08:00

Recklessness consumed her. She crossed the line, and she knew it. Her behavior was out of control, some might say "dangerous."

The whispering inner voice she knew as her conscience was silenced now. Turned off. Quieted. All that remained was raw animal instinct churning inside. She selfishly gave in to it.

Just one more cookie...

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a comfortable weekend. Be indulgent! D

Hole In One

2011-02-03T16:26:00.001-08:00

Gavin chided Katy incessantly about her lack of ability at golf. So Katy practiced golf alone after Gavin left for work.

Today, Gavin stepped aside as Katy approached the tee.

Gavin turned his back to snicker. Katy hit the ball. The ball hit Gavin. Bang. Left temple. Fatal blow.

They said it was an accident.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All (see sidebar for link) and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a cheerful weekend. Be warm and cozy. D

IT

2011-01-21T15:15:00.000-08:00

Night before last I heard It in the attic, scratching. I told Daddy.

He shrugged, "House noises."

Yesterday, It slithered to the closet. I told Daddy.

He frowned, "Imagination."

This morning, It moved into the cellar, growling low. I didn't tell Daddy.

Daddy lugged a box into the cellar. Wonder if he'll believe me now.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have an incredible weekend. Be marvelous. D

Mama

2011-01-07T10:33:00.000-08:00

Our mama, Bettie June Morgan, passed away this week at the age of 80.
(The picture is of my dad, Mama, and me in New Mexico about 59 years ago!)

Born in Clinton, Oklahoma, she lived with her father, Evan Elias and her mother, Peggy. When Mama's daddy died, she was nine years old. She never got over the loss. At around 11 years of age, her mother remarried. He was a depot agent, George. The new family relocated to Willow. Mama attended Ocina School, making life long friends.

Mama married Coy at age sixteen and moved to Carlsbad, New Mexico, where my brother and I were born. Throughout her life, she felt a strong affinity for Carlsbad and her friends who were like family. We later lived in Malone, New York and in Oklahoma City before moving to Willow.

Eventually, Mama managed the Willow Cafe'. She worked for thirteen years and put my brother and me through college. When she retired from the cafe', Mama worked as a receptionist for my speech therapy practice in Mangum. Later, Mama opened Tidbits, an art supply shop. She became an artist in her own right.

Mama could not abide small minded people. She taught us to accept all people and all religions.

She taught us about books and word games. She taught us to cut meat correctly when none of our friends knew how. She taught us to appreciate music and see magic everywhere.

Mama encouraged me to write poems and stories. She encouraged my brother to do well in school. She called us “the Three Musketeers.”

With a grin, Mama stated she was a reincarnated Egyptian scribe. She was well read and could discuss any topic imaginable. Through television, she kept abreast of current events. She enjoyed science fiction movies. She adored the actor Harrison Ford.

She felt the universe was magical with endless possibilities. When my son, Adam, visited Granny, they watched the night skies through a telescope. Adam and Granny were on the lookout for aliens, deciding if a spaceship visited, they would jump aboard together.

As years passed, Mama became more reclusive. She watched television and wrote letters. She unplugged her phone, hating its ring. She became an expert “emailer.” She lived vicariously through my brother and me.

Mama was adamant about remaining in Willow. For the last nine years, my brother and I drove to Willow to provide groceries, get Mama's hair cut, and check on her. She refused services of doctors, dentists, and other health care providers. She managed to take care of herself (with the help of good samaritans like Tammy, Vinson, and the Willow Bank staff) until a few months ago when her health dictated the care of a nursing home.

Mama quipped about our adventures, people we knew (both good and otherwise), and places we had been. She missed her mother, her step dad, and her daddy. She would be happy to see them again.

Mama succumbed to lung disease and Alzheimers disease. It was a tough battle. She fought well. The world was a better place for having her in it.

Mama, we love you and miss you.

2011

2010-12-31T18:41:00.000-08:00

HERE'S WISHING EVERYONE A HAPPY, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
TIME MARCHES ON AND ON AND ON...

Be inventive, exciting, gorgeous, wonderous, inquisitive, lively, eager, bubbly, giggly, silly, thoughtful, lovely, loving, giving, spiritous, inventive, delicious, delightful, positive, precious, ambitious, cuddly, fruitful, artful, fanciful, precocious, uplifting, revolutionary, inspiring, and...happy in the New Year. Best to all. Donnetta

Be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All (see sidebar) and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. D

Crazy

2010-12-24T09:49:00.000-08:00

There is something in madness we are drawn to. It offers a freedom. It offers a creativity that might otherwise be forbidden; letting us go and letting us be. Be whatever glorious or painful creatures we dream. It is unique. It lets us soar or sink and sometimes never surface. Sometimes that is good enough.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All (see sidebar) and let him know. Have a special holiday season. Be a little bit wild! Donnetta

Foiled Again

2010-12-17T06:36:00.000-08:00

Winnie, the Wicked Winter Witch, detested Santa and Christmas. She dreamed up a scheme to squelch the hated holiday forever. Sneaking stealthily into the stables at midnight, she laced the reindeer meal with "Final Rest" pellets. She was quiet as nothing was nastier than a wakened, angry reindeer.

Unfortunately, Winnie was unaware of Rudolph's insomnia...

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a super cool weekend. Be light as snow! Donnetta

Breaking and Entering

2010-12-10T14:01:00.000-08:00

He crept stealthily from window to window. Getting into the secure house was not going to be easy. The sound of nearby sirens stopped him. He waited for their silence. Shaking his head, he sighed.

Might just as well use the chimney again this year. Laying his finger beside his nose and giving a nod...

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story, be sure to let Galen (G-Man at Mr. Know It All) know. Have a happy holiday weekend and be good because Santa's elves are watching! Donnetta

Living Nightmare

2010-12-03T14:57:00.000-08:00

Voices all around but no-one speaks to me.

Music blasts from nowhere and then wafts into space.

Pills forced in my mouth, and I do not know why.

My house is gone. My dog is gone. My books are gone.

I wonder where I am.

I cannot walk and only stand to fall.

Confusion.

Alzheimers.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a productive weekend. Take care of your parents and be forgiving. D

Day by Day

2010-11-26T18:44:00.000-08:00

One day he was good.

One day he was bad.

She tried to please him. But she never knew.

One day he was good.

One day he was bad.

She grew weary trying to guess.

One day he was good.

One day he was bad.

One day she shot him.

One day he was dead.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a yummy holiday. Be festive! D

Spirit

2010-11-19T21:38:00.000-08:00

Being in the flesh was an eternity ago. She swims through the air now to get to the sea. She wafts her way secretly about the globe, peaking at the living. Ever the voyeur. Ever the traveler. Peering in worldly windows. Whispering in the ears of the unknowing.

“The spirit goes where it will.”

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have an exhilerating weekend. Be exouberant.

Indecision

2010-11-12T21:07:00.000-08:00

Surrounded by the loving light. Elated yet confused.

Above me my darling mother whom I have missed. She waves, beckoning me.

Beneath me the world. Struggles.

And yet my loving husband yearns for me. He mourns.

On the spiraling path, I stop half way. Pause and ponder.

Forward or back. Which way do I go?

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a scrumptious weekend. Be frivilous. Donnetta

Stalker

2010-10-29T16:29:00.000-07:00

Moonlight iced the night. Lauren shivered, peering out the window as she had each evening.

The silent statue loomed.

The first night, it was at the lawn's edge. Subsequent nights, it appeared closer as if taking slow stealthy steps, ominously approaching the house.

Lauren stared wide eyed. Only inches from the pane, it stared back.

Be sure to let Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All, know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a horrific Halloween weekend. Don't be scared! D

Terror To Scale

2010-10-15T20:40:00.000-07:00

Horrified, Jack looked up at the black shadow hovering ominously overhead. He trembled. It was true about life flashing before your eyes right before death hits. The shadow widened as his memories raced.

“Look,” the toddler laughed pointing towards the ground. “Mama, I mash bug." He ground the sole of his shoe into the earth.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a real cool weekend. Be retro! D

Icarus

2010-10-08T10:07:00.000-07:00

He drifted upward to the emerald sky like a helium balloon let go from a child's hand. He bounced from one cloud to another, laughing. The warmth from the sun comforted him as he danced in the air.

Suddenly an unseen hand tugged at him, spiralling him downward. He screamed.

Never woke up. Dream over.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All and let him know. Have a great weekend. Be fanciful. D

MAMA

2010-09-24T16:56:00.000-07:00

Thank you for the kind words of last week. Mama is now in the gero-psychiatric unit for assessment of dementia. Only weighs about 95 pounds. If all goes well, we will move her to a nursing home next week. I sure hope everything falls into place and we get her there all in one piece. Everyone, please say a little prayer. Donnetta

Mama

2010-09-17T15:34:00.000-07:00

No Friday Flash 55 story today. My Mama is in the hospital in the critical care unit. She is doing as well as can be expected for an 80 year old lady in her condition. She won't be allowed to go back home so my brother and I must decide where her home will be.

Following, you will find a small tribute I wrote to her on her 78th birthday. She is a very special person. I sure hope she hangs around for a while to keep me company.

Have a good weekend all. Donnetta

Sunday, March 30, 2008 Happy Birthday, Mama

April 2nd is Mama’s birthday. She will be 78 years old . I remember in school when Mama was the youngest mom out of all my classmates’ mothers. She was also the prettiest. She had striking hazel eyes and thick brown hair that she typically wore in a stylish bun. My friends commented many times on how beautiful my mother was.

Mama was adopted by my grandmother and grandfather when she just about six weeks old. They loved her. They also loved each other but couldn’t make it as a married couple, divorcing when Mama was a little girl. Mama still tells stories about living alone with Granny and what a challenge it could be. Granny had a temper. Mama’s daddy came to see her frequently and took her to the movies whenever he could. Probably, that’s how Mama became a dreamer. When her daddy died, she was only nine years old. She had recurring nightmares of the Frankenstein monster chasing her up and down walls until her daddy, her hero, came and rescued her.

Mama married when she was sixteen years old. She was in love with my dad who, early on, tried to be a good husband, but who, in the end, couldn’t bare the weight of the everyday world. He dropped out emotionally, becoming an alcoholic, hiding out in his own jumbled existence.

Through the years, Mama lived on the edges of life. She watched television and wrote letters to friends. She lived vicariously through my brother and me. She taught us about books. She taught us how to play word games. She taught us to open our minds to all people, all religions, and the wonders of the world. During our early childhood, she was unable to take us away from poverty and the chaos of our dad’s topsy-turvy world, but she gave us insight and taught us to see magic everywhere. She taught us how to cut our meat at the table. She taught us to appreciate music, all music. And she taught us the mystery of Christmas.

Mama has agoraphobia. So, this meant there were limited places and things that she could do comfortably. She really didn’t like going to school functions at all, but would on a rare occasion if Granny went with her. She managed to make it to open house for my home economics class. She didn’t go to my brother’s high school graduation. But we understood. We understood that it had nothing to do with us. It had everything to do with her comfort zone and where it stood on any given day. That was just the way things were.

When we left New Mexico and moved to Oklahoma, times were slim. We lived in an old farmhouse that belonged to my dad’s dad. Mama didn’t mind. The house was picked up and tidy even though there wasn’t much in it. She always kept a pot of coffee brewing in the kitchen. She always had a cigarette in her hand. She said it helped to settle her nerves. In the summer when school was out, we watched old movies on the one and only channel we received. We played word games and guessing games. We picked blueberries. Sometimes we slept in an old ‘54 Ford, my brother Mama and me, to get away from my dad. She encouraged me to spin stories for my brother and her. She wanted me to make up poems to keep our thoughts occupied as well. We laughed a lot together. Mama called us the Three Musketeers.

When I was in high school, Mama took a job washing dishes in the local café, an extremely brave thing for her to do. She did this at the encouragement of a friend of hers who managed the café. Eventually, Mama herself became the manager. She left my dad and successfully worked for the next ten years, putting my brother and myself through college. No small feat.

When she retired from the cafe', Mama worked as my receptionist/secretary for my speech therapy practice. Oh, the times we had then! We took art lessons. We visited psychics. We went shopping. As long as we were together, we could do anything. Fears were held at bay. And Mama had all the families of my clients kept at ease as I did my therapy thing. We were a team.

Today, Mama lives alone in the farm community that housed the old café. She has a little dog for company. She sometimes talks about being a reincarnated Egyptian. She was perhaps, she says, a scribe. She will not see a doctor or a dentist and can only leave the house for short periods of time because her back hurts. The windows of the house are kept covered because the light hurts her eyes due to cataracts. She can carry on the most wonderful conversations about any topic as she is extremely well read but can no longer read her beloved books. The television is on throughout the day, and she knows all the latest news because of this. She still enjoys science fiction and fantasy movies. She cannot abide small minded people. She loves Harrison Ford. The pot of coffee is on in the kitchen, and she puffs her cigarettes.

Next life, things will be better. Happy birthday, Mama. From your Sunshine.

Hands on Writing

2010-09-10T15:39:00.000-07:00

Bart took his time with the nylon thread. The pinkie finger was tricky. He tailored the wrist edges gingerly for the finishing touch.

Resting peacefully in the pool of blood, Jason's writing career was done. The sacrifice was appreciated and necessary.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All and let him know. Have a happy weekend. Write a little something. Donnetta (PS Yes, it's a repeat. I'm not feeling well today. Crummy Tummy. Re-enjoy it!)

BANNED

2010-09-03T15:06:00.001-07:00

Hubby and I received our AARP Bulletin today. (Yes, we are old.) This is the September issue, Vol. 51, No. 7. On page 39, there is a list of books that at one time or another were banned by American schools and libraries. What an eye opener. I have picked out a choice few for my Friday Flash 55. Which one is your favorite, and who is the author? Enjoy.

_______________________________________________________________________

TOO POLITICAL

Uncle Tom's Cabin

A Farewell to Arms

The Grapes of Wrath

TOO MUCH SEX

Madame Bovary

Tess of the d'Urbervilles

Ulysses

The Sun Also Rises

IRRELIGIOUS

On the Origin of the Species

The Lord of the Rings trilogy

Harry Potter series

SOCIALLY OFFENSIVE

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

The Scarlet Letter

Fahrenheit 451

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a well-read weekend. Enjoy a good book. Donnetta

Seasonal Fear

2010-08-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

The little ones came in droves, striking fear into every heart.

The squealing, high pitched sound they made curdled the blood of all who heard it.

Nerve wracking, they were. They edged. They elbowed. They trampled and tromped. They left no stone unturned in their path.

They entered, smiling deceptively. They laughed.

Back to school.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flass 55 story that you would like to share. Have an enlightening weekend. Be knowledgable. Donnetta

Nothing to Fear

2010-08-20T15:01:00.000-07:00

Danny typed on the newspaper assignment. Gentle breeze touched his cheek.

Shivering. Looking around.

Only himself and his computer. Clackety clack, resumed the keys.

Thump to his ear.

Gulping. Back to work.

Nudge to his back.

Surveying his surroundings. Nothing.

Assignment again.

Almost inaudible hum.

Sweating.

Smell of sulpher rises.

Something was in the room.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a loving weekend. Be sincere. Donnetta

Deadly Sin

2010-08-12T07:44:00.000-07:00

The monks gathered in a ceremonious circle around Brother Tom, chanting in monotone, praying. Tom's condition progressively worsened. The brothers, fearing he might be lost, continued to pray.

Tom was listless and uncaring. He turned his back on life and on God.

If prayer failed, the whip might be next. Acedia was difficult to cure.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and share your Friday Flash 55 story. Have a productive weekend. Stay busy! Donnetta

Early Friday Flash 55: Intruder

2010-08-04T06:20:00.000-07:00

Moisture matted my hair as I tossed and turned, my bed sheets soaked.

Heaviness hung in the humid air. Florida summer is miserably hot.

"Must sleep." I opened the wood framed bedroom window.

A whisper of cool freshness wafted in, finally refreshing me. It was a small window opening. Innocuous.

That's how he got in.

Remember to visit G-Man, Galen at Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a peaceful weekend. Stay cool. Donnetta

Unseen

2010-07-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

White Eagle stands in the center of his village, surveying the aftermath of the bloody battle. The white murderers are defeated. He watches as his wife sheds tears for the Lost. Sorrowfully, he shreds his shirt. His stalwart voice cries out to the wind in victory. He sighs.

Over the hill, stealthily, the soldiers advance.

Remember to visit G-Man, Galen at Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a gentle weekend. Be fair. Donnetta

Deceived

2010-07-22T18:14:00.000-07:00

Old Mr. Noblock, art dealer extraordinaire, displayed the painting proudly to young Mitzi. Pleased, Mitzi beamed at finding an original Van Pugh at a give away price. Money changed hands. Mitzi, Van Pugh in hand, exited happily. Noblock smirked, pulling a matching canvas from a pile in the closet. Youth, he chuckled, so easily duped.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story you would like to share. Have a happy weekend. Be kind hearted. Donnetta

Patience

2010-07-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

Sighing, Patience swept blonde curls from her forehead. She devoted many years to John.

Now, here they were. He in a hospital bed attached to multiple tubes. She, watching, waiting.

The wheezing of his death rattles drew to an end.

Managing a smile, she said, "Come on, John, let’s go. Guardian angels can’t wait forever!"

Be sure to visit Galen at Mr. Know It All (G-Man) and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a quiet weekend. Be productive! Donnetta

Nature

2010-07-08T17:48:00.000-07:00

The snake circled the terrified field mouse, hissing. With each pass, the mouse trembled.

Mouse begged, "Please don't harm me, Mr. Snake."

Snake sputtered, "Shhh. Be still."

Mouse sighed. "You sound kind."

Rattling softly, Snake said, "Peace. Be still."

Mouse stopped shaking. "You are merciful."

Snake struck the lethal blow. "We are what we are."

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a great summer weekend. Be free. Donnetta

What's a Grandmother For?

2010-07-01T17:42:00.000-07:00

Granny had generations of recipes. No one could whip up a meal like she could.

Tonight, the table was set in honor of granddaughter Sally's engagement. Prospective groom Tom was handsome, but Granny didn't like his constant belittling Sally.

Granny set the table paying particular attention to Tom's plate, sprinkling special herbs on his salad.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a great July 4th and be safe. Donnetta

Recurring Dreams

2010-06-25T17:12:00.000-07:00

Verdant leaves speckled with red roses. Lady bugs. Caterpillars. Snakes. Rattlers...

Wake up, Amanda!

White pillowed clouds. Blue sky. Flying. Falling, falling...

Amanda, wake up!

Humming birds flittering. Dogs barking. Horses galloping. Monsters drooling...

Wake now, Amanda!

Sprinkling droplets pattering. Thunder. Lightening. Downpour. Flood. Drowning...

Amanda, now! Wake up!

Sunset. Darkness. Blackness. Smothering...

Amanda! Amanda!

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a glowing weekend. Be radiant! Donnetta

Revelry

2010-06-17T12:36:00.000-07:00

"Get up now!" the abrasive voice burst into his ear drum. "What are you-stupid?

Evan felt it would never end.

"You know what time it is, boy. I said, 'Get up!'"

Evan bolted from his cot, teetering. The demands placed on him were unbelievable. He longed to see his Mom.

"Welcome to boot camp."

Be sure to let Galen know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. (G-Man at Mr. Know It All) Have a comfortable weekend. Be wistful. Donnetta

A Moving Experience

2010-06-15T17:25:00.000-07:00

New House

(picture taken in the fall)

Hello, everybody! I have been missing in action for some time. Hubby and I are finally moved into the "new" house. We are, however, still living out of boxes and looks like this will go on for some time. Each day is filled with the fun of unpacking, arranging and rearranging, cleaning, searching for missing items, making runs to WalMart for unexpected purchases, and so on. What fun it has been!

We carried loads back and forth in the pickup with a small trailor for two days and finally hubby decided we must hire professional movers. Thank God! Boy, did that ever help out. And yet, we are continuing to haul more straggler loads each day. People should not own this much stuff!

In the mean time, we have a "busted" water line that had to be repaired today--at the "old" house. Went over to meet the plumber and found that the lower floor of the house had flooded with all the Oklahoma rains. Oh, my. So, tomorrow the carpet cleaners meet us and we will have to take care of that. Will it ever end?

I am worn to a frazzle. Hubby's back is out. I mean, it is REALLY out. He's taking Flexeril now. My upper back/neck area is hurting along with every other muscle and bone in my body!

So, we have decided this is our final move. Our son can have a big estate sale in about 15 years and put us in assisted living or the nursing home. I am never moving again!!

Reckless

2010-06-04T13:37:00.000-07:00

Guilt consumed her. She crossed the line, and she knew it. Her behavior was out of control, some might say "reckless."

The whispering inner voice she knew as her conscience was silenced now. Turned off. Quieted. All that remained was raw animal instant churning inside. She selfishly gave in to it.

Just one more cookie...

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 short story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a fun weekend. Be victorious. Donnetta

Moving Week

2010-05-22T10:39:00.001-07:00

Hey, everyone!

Nope, we didn't get blown away by the recent tornadoes! We're in the middle of moving to our new home!

As soon as we've unloaded, unpacked and recuperated, I'll be back!

Meanwhile, have fun!

Toy Soldiers

2010-05-13T15:06:00.000-07:00

The scraggley teddy bears were miffed. Scratched and dented, the Matchbox cars could barely roll on their worn wheels. The Transformers, no longer able to transform, banded angrily together, advancing. Enough was enough.

Five year old John slept peacefully as the unlikely army quietly closed in. It was the last time he would hurt them.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a peaceful weekend. Share. Donnetta

HORROR STORY

2010-05-06T18:01:00.000-07:00

The monstrous worm gnawed its way through everything in its path. It ate anything of substance, spitting out undesirable bits as it went, vomiting and spewing semi-digested particles. Ruthless and vicious, it advanced uncaring and unstoppable. It crunched. It consumed. It was insatiable.

Frustrated, Brian dropped the mouse. "Claire," he called. "Darned computer crashed again."

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story you would like to share. Have a stunning weekend. Be gallant. Donnetta

MOVING DAY

2010-04-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

Hello, everybody! I don't have an actual Friday 55 story written today. We are in the process of packing and moving out of our house in Florida! The house sold and papers will be signed today. We have lived here for 10 years, going back and forth between Oklahoma and Florida. Enough is enough! Hubby bought me a new home in Oklahoma, and we will soon be moving into it. So, we are busy, busy. Next week I'll get a story written and try to get back in the swing! 'Til then, bye for now! Donnetta

AUCTION

2010-04-23T12:27:00.000-07:00

“Ladies and gents,” the auctioneer bellowed. “Have you ever seen anything this striking!” He valued his merchandise. “So pearly white. Indeed, exotic quality.” He continued giving glowing descriptions. “Lift 'em high, girl,” he commanded. “Who'll start the bid at two thousand?”

Complying, Destiny raised her alabaster arms. At least she would fetch a good price.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a festive weekend! Be stimulating! Donnetta

Deadline

2010-04-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

Darrin stared at the computer. Determined to complete his taxes online, he was unstoppable. He struggled with dates, fought with balances, and stretched donations. The keyboard chattered. With a final strike of the “enter” button, a blue pixel jumped off the screen, slithering painfully over his body. In the end, Darrin met the deadline.

Be sure to tell Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All, if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share! Have a snappy weekend. Be alive! Donnetta

PS If you want to see something really scary, go here:
www.eyetricks.com/scary_optical_illusion.htm

Tooth Fairy Friday

2010-04-09T14:34:00.000-07:00

Gazing happily in the gilded mirror, Livia stretched her gossamer wings. It was Tooth Fairy Friday and her evening shift. She donned her tutu, adjusting spaghetti straps. Livia took pride in her delicate appearance and in her job. She averaged 500 visits per night.

Twirling with delight, she smiled. And they say we don’t exist!

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All, and let him know! Have a warm, spring weekend. Be whimsical! Donnetta

Paradise Lost

2010-04-01T14:14:00.000-07:00

Sammy Snake slithered into a corner at his mother's furious command.

“Senselessss!” she scolded.

Tears streamed down Sammy's scales. He meant no harm.

“Ssssinful,” Sammy's mother hissed. “Everything is losssst. We'll have to move to the ghetto.”

Sammy sniffed.

“How many times have I told you not to play with humans?”

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a wonderful weekend. Be happy! Donnetta

Fey

2010-03-25T17:36:00.001-07:00

“The spirit goes where it will.”

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a colorful weekend. Be fiery! Donnetta

Mildred

2010-03-19T15:31:00.000-07:00

Eighty-eight year old Mildred stood her turn in line at the bank. Her tiny arthritic hands hugged her purse tightly. Living on a fixed income was difficult, but she thought of a way to manage.

After patiently waiting, she faced the teller. Reaching gingerly inside her purse, she smiled and announced, “Stick 'em up.”

Don't for get to visit G-man, Galen, at Mr. Know It All if you have written a Friday Flash 55. Have a super weekend. Be intriguing. Donnetta

Just Fishin'

2010-03-12T16:32:00.000-08:00

Mike tossed the fishing line into the water. Even with Pat here fussing over his new Shakespeare reel, it was the kind of quiet men dream about.

“Good fishin',” Mike whispered. “Lake gets drained a couple of feet each year. Those trout come up close.”

Pat's mouth dropped when he saw a pale hand surface.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a luscious weekend. Eat Chocolate! Be indulgent. Donnetta

Not on Your Life!

2010-03-04T18:12:00.000-08:00

Jasper tired of the nightly hauntings. He and Justin were business partners until Justin suffered his fatal heart attack.

Before drawing his final breath, Justin realized (unbeknownst to Jasper) that Jasper had been secretly skimming unreported profits.

“Go into the light,” Jasper urged to the tune of rattling chains.

Chuckling, Justin donned his sunglasses.

Be sure to let Galen (G-Man, Mr. Know It All) know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a delicious weekend. Be bubbly! D

Hitting Paydirt

2010-02-26T14:58:00.000-08:00

Friday was Dennis' day for dumpster diving. He discovered, once, a nicely wrapped chocolate cake. Another time, a half drunk bottle of chardonnay. Today, in the early morning hour, he bent over the trash drum, digging. There it was. A lifeless man, pockets full of nothing, but sporting gold in numerous teeth. Eureka! Buried treasure!

Remember to tell Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, if you have written a Friday Flash 55 short story that you would like to share. Have a quiet, cozy weekend. Be content. Donnetta

Number One

2010-02-18T17:18:00.000-08:00

Jack was an excellent speaker. He confidently strutted across the stage, holding the audience in the palm of his hand. Jennifer, his wife, grew weary of constantly supporting his efforts. Jack invariably came first: master of ceremonies. Jennifer discretely placed the microphone extension cord in front of the stage steps. Jack mistakenly overlooked it. Whoops!

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a blissful weekend. Be exceptional! D

Hubby Checker: Hubby says this relates to a funnier story that he wants to see told at another time! Ah, well...

Kitchen Help

2010-02-10T08:14:00.000-08:00

Jolean tired of the nose-in-the-air, demanding, self-centered, wine swigging crowd she served nightly. She had enough. She prepared the wine carafes for serving, clean, tidy, and tastefully arranged. Party for 100. One final touch. When no one was looking, she plopped a drop of cyanide in each carafe. There, she chuckled.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at Mr. Know It All and let him know. Be wonderous. Donnetta

PS I am using the computer at the Port Charlotte Library and it isn't very cooperative! I apologize for any errors in the above 55er! Ah, well. D

Decisions

2010-01-28T07:17:00.001-08:00

Damion was determined to do good, not evil, though God cast him out of Heaven for impure thinking. Being a newly fallen angel, one of Satan's up and coming brood, was challenging.

None the less, Damion performed numerous good deeds before tiring. Finally, with a twinkle in his demonic eye, he decided, "Oh, what the hell!"

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a devilishly fun weekend. Be scandalous! Donnetta

Hubby Checker: Hubby thought this was "cute." What do you think?

All In The Cards...

2010-01-21T12:51:00.000-08:00

Harry conned everyone he met. He honed his skills this evening, practicing card scams, sitting in front of the t.v., sipping whiskey.

Knock at the door. "It's open," Harry bellowed.

In strutted Satan, in full scarlet regalia, pitchfork in hand. "Come for your soul," the evil angel announced.

Shuffling, Harry winked, "Double or nothing?"

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a special weekend. Be fabulous! Donnetta

(Hubby Test: Hubby didn't think this 55 made sense. Do you?)

HEAT

2010-01-16T10:34:00.000-08:00

Moisture matted my hair as I tossed and turned, my bed sheets soaking.

Humid heaviness hung in the air. Florida summer is so hot."Must sleep."I had to open the bedroom window.

A whisper of cool freshness wafted in, finally refreshing me. It was a small window opening. Innocuous.

That's how he got in.

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, if you written a Friday Flash 55 that you would like to share. Have a scrumptious weekend. Be bold! Donnetta

STIGMATA

2010-01-08T17:17:00.000-08:00

She sinks into bed, wiping a tear. She rests against the pillow, smoothing the ebony skirt. Her tired eyes entreat Heaven as she wonders, why. Taking a white cloth, she wraps her wrists to stop the crimson flow. She murmurs familiar prayers. The smell of violets wraps lovingly around her. A smile crosses her lips.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Stay warm this cold weekend. Take the initiative! Donnetta

MOUSE TRAP

2010-01-01T16:43:00.000-08:00

I, Kevin Gaston, am a mediocre science fiction writer. Or I was before the Mouse Trap caught me. Knocking out a chapter on my Mac, I had leaned forward checking my work when the Trap caught me, snatching me into a parallel world, a world at war with itself. How will I ever get home?

(So what's going to happen to Kevin? Where is he and why? How will he get back?)

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a Happy New Year! Be innovative. Donnetta

OKLAHOMA SNOW

2009-12-29T14:40:00.000-08:00

Oklahoma snow! Christmas Day was beautiful but cold. We had a real blizzard. Hope everyone had a great Christmas and stayed warm. More snow is expected this evening. So far, just an overcast sky but it could snow at any moment. In Oklahoma, you just never know.

Hazardous Duty

2009-12-18T15:26:00.000-08:00

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story, be sure to visit G-man, Galen, at Mr. Know It All. Have a fun filled weekend. HO HO HO Donnetta

A Christmas Tale

2009-12-11T14:12:00.000-08:00

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Falalalala. Happy Holidays. Donnetta

Oh, Nonsense

2009-12-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

The jelligut sun slithered gaminally in the evening horizon. Caesar wept. He had lost his lidimun love. Now, her tweggly curls and minnery smile belonged to a scoundrel. Perhaps he would grab his garillio gun and blow the intruder into marliferous smitherines. It would serve him right. For now, Caesar waited watching the feriliote sky.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All and let him know! Have a playful weekend. Be child-like. Donnetta

True Colors

2009-11-27T18:04:00.001-08:00

She stared out the window at spring rain dancing on tops of sprouting white buds on pear trees. Spikes of golden sunshine pierced the overcast sky. A rainbow flaunted colors of itself. Her azure eyes were misty as the day. Her dainty childhood hand raised the gray gun to her pulsing temple. Fade to black.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit G-Man, Galen at Mr. Know It All and let him know! Have a sunshiny day. Be bright! Donnetta

REINCARNATION

2009-11-20T15:58:00.000-08:00

The money, tucked in Tad's saddle bag, leaned against the tree Tad called “bed” tonight. He smirked. Easy job. He staked out the bank for weeks before the heist. Pulled it off alone. The money was his. He nodded, snoring softly.

Quiet Fox slit Tad's throat instantly. Leaving the saddle bag, he took Tad's scalp.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All and let him know! Have a happy-go-lucky weekend. Be fair. Donnetta

SNIFF

2009-11-05T11:14:00.000-08:00

Six year old Virginia waltzed through Aunt Stella's garden. Tall, exotic flowers dwarfed her diminutive frame.

Giggles bubbled from her baby mouth as she embraced and sniffed each colorful blossom. The blood red rose was the loveliest and last she sampled.

Virginia dropped as did the curious, circling flies. Sometimes the prettiest is the deadliest.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All and let him know. Have a winning weekend. Be ready. Donnetta

CONVICTED

2009-10-29T10:24:00.000-07:00

Jeffrey lounged in his favorite recliner as the spirit children circled. He felt their presence and began to squirm.

Although their wounds no longer pained them, they found forgiveness impossible. The children closed the circle.

Jeffrey gasped for air. He wondered if his victims felt this way just before the end. Suffocating, he silently wept.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All and let him know. Have a spooky weekend. Be scary! Donnetta

Excerpt

2009-10-23T08:23:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers: I am working on a library computer today in Punta Gorda, Florida, and am having no luck with copying my horror story from the "jump drive" onto the blog page. So--here is an opening paragraph from a conventional story that I recently began writing. It will just have to do for this week! Next week, I'll bring my usual Dark Donnetta offering back!

I hear sounds of my daughter bustling in the kitchen. Cups, glasses, plates clamor being washed. She hums, busy. She is happy being a wife and mother. You hear it; know it by the sound of her working. Contentment. I wonder whether or not I paid enough attention to her when she was a child.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All and let him know. Have a pleasant weekend. Be noticed! Donnetta

Elementary

2009-10-15T07:08:00.000-07:00

Dick loved Jane. Jane loved Dick. Jane and Dick loved drugs. Dick and Jane were sad. Jane got a job. Dick did more drugs. Jane went to school. Dick grew jealous. Jane had friends. Dick had drugs. Jane pleaded. Dick drugged. Jane grew strong. Dick grew bitter. Jane wept. Dick screamed. Jane left. Dick died.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 short story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All and let him know. Have a gorgeous weekend. Be marvelous! Donnetta

UNKIND CUT

2009-10-08T17:32:00.000-07:00

Isamu was a good man, a brave man who foolishly brought shame upon his household. He lusted after Aiko unable to control his passion. She did not repel his overtures, instead, had welcomed them. Eventually, guilt overtook him. Now the brave man perspired heavily as he kneeled. He placed the sword against his heart, falling.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit G-Man, Galen at Mr. Know It All and let him know. Have a weekend filled with wisdom. Be smart. Donnetta

WONDERING AND WANDERING: STRANGE BUT TRUE

2009-10-07T16:49:00.000-07:00

Isn't the world a crazy place? Here's proof of just that! Hope it brings a smile.

20 Odd Facts

*Barbie's measurements (if she were life-size): 39-23-33
*Coca-cola was originally green
*Every day more money is printed for Monopoly than for the US Treasury
*Smartest dogs: 1) border collie; 2) poodle; 3) golden retriever. Dumbest dog: 1) afghan
*The Hawaiian alphabet has 12 letters
*First novel ever written on a typewriter was "Tom Sawyer"
*There are more collect calls on Father's Day than any other day of the year
*Heinz Catsup leaving the bottle travels at 25 miles PER YEAR
*It is possible to lead a cow upstairs but not downstairs
*Men get hiccups more often than women
*Men can read smaller print than women; women can hear better
*Chances that an American lives within 50 mi of where he/she grew up: 1 in 2.
*Amount American Airlines saved in 1987 by eliminating one olive from each salad served in first class: $440,000
*City with the most Rolls Royces per capita: Hong Kong
*State with the highest percentage of people who walk to work: Alaska
*Chances of a white Christmas in New York: 1 in 4
*Portion of US annual rainfall that falls in April: 1/12
*Percentage of Africa that is wilderness: 28
*Percentage of North America that is wilderness: 38
*Estimated percentage of American adults who go on a diet each year: 44

What's In The Box?

2009-10-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

Old Mrs. Nobbwocket pushed the box through her front door as her cat meowed encouragingly. It took some effort to get the cumbersome container inside the house. Once done, she plopped, exhausted, in the middle of the sofa, sinking into its purple softness. Resting her cane across her knees, she stared at the puzzling crate.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to tell G-Man, Galen at Mr. Know It All. Have a magical weekend. Be curious. Donnetta

Spiral

2009-09-25T16:32:00.000-07:00

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a scrumptious weekend. Be worthy. D

Guess Work

2009-09-18T16:39:00.000-07:00

When he was 16, he knew what to do. He carried her books.

When he was 30, he knew what to do. He married her.

When he was 43, he knew what to do. He bought her the dream house.

At 55, he no longer knew what to do. Where would he bury her body?

Be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, if you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share. Have a delightful weekend. Be exuberant! Donnetta

Wondering and Wondering: Okie Giggles

2009-09-16T16:59:00.000-07:00

Wednesday's Wonderings and Wanderings offers a little old fashioned Oklahoma humor. This is a letter from an aunt to her nephew. Have fun and don't take the world too seriously! (Sorry about the messy look. I fought and fought with blogger to make this more readable. Oh, well. Ya'll just can't have everything ya'll want.) Donnetta

I'm writing this slow because I know you can't read fast.

We don't live where we did when you left home.

Your Dad read in the newspaper that most accidents
happen within 20 miles of your home, so we moved.

I won't be able to send you the address because the last family that lived here
took the house numbers when they moved
so they wouldn't have to change their address. This place even has a washing machine.

I'm not sure it works so well though.
Last week I put a load of clothes in and pulled the chain.
We haven't seen them since. I hope they come back soon,
like I told your dad we shouldn't have to wear
the same clothes more than a week.

About that coat you wanted me to send;
your Uncle Billy Bob said it would
be too heavy to send in the mail
with the buttons on, so we cut them off
and put them in the pockets.

Bubba locked his keys in the car yesterday.
We were really worried because it took him two
hours to get me and your father out.

Your sister had a baby this morning,
but I haven't found out what it is yet, so I don't know if you are an aunt or uncle.

Uncle Bobby Ray fell into a whisky vat last week.
Some men tried to pull him out,
but he fought them off and drowned.
We had him cremated. He burned for three days.

Three of your friends went
off a bridge in a pickup truck.
Butch was driving.
He rolled down the window and swam to safety.
The other two were in the back.
They drowned because they couldn't
get the tailgate down.

There isn't much more news at this time.
Nothing much out of the normal has happened.

Your Favorite Aunt,

Aunt Donnetta

SPECIAL EFFECTS

2009-09-11T18:55:00.000-07:00

The dead man's body writhed under the oak tree. Numerous living things took up residence in his flesh giving the illusion of motion to lifeless skin.

Flies gave birth to maggots rolling in his belly. Ants feasted, dancing in his eyes. He was a smorgasbord of goodies for crawling, craving creatures.

He never moved again.

Bug Eating Man

If you have a Friday Flash 55 story to share, visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a moving weekend. Be marvelous. Donnetta

Wondering and Wandering: Work is Fun is Work

2009-09-09T14:52:00.000-07:00

Who says work is fun? Well, apparently many people do not agree. So, COULD work be fun? Absolutely.

I've had some jobs from hell in the past that were so far from fun that I would call them torture. But they didn't have to be. Situations and coworkers set the environment up to simply be that way. That's when we have to make the best of a bad situation and internally remain as positive as we can—for our sakes.

I have a friend who told me once that work could not be made “fun.” To that well intended person, I say, “Boloney!”

Why can't everyday, mundane jobs be fun? Just like around the house, for example.

Growing up, my mom made every household job as positive as she could for us kids. We did almost everything with an upbeat attitude.

I remember when we painted the bedrooms of our run down farm house. The painters were Mama, my brother, and myself. We had a small portable radio and we painted and sang until the job was completed. To this day, I remember slapping on paint to the tune of Red Rubber Ball, Georgia, To Everything, Summer in the City, and many others. If we had a minor paint spill or missed a spot, we cleaned it up, regrouped, and made a joke out of it. We got the job done and did so with a smile—even when we were worn out.

Mama, my brother, and I picked wild mulberries during the season. I hated the sand and the bugs and the heat. But Mama made the entire job an adventure. We three were really looking for buried treasure. The berries were coins. We were rich!

Another time, my brother, my best friend (EA Monroe), and I chopped cotton. That is, we chopped the weeds in the cotton field. In Oklahoma, the term for that is chopping cotton. We listened, again, to the small radio, hoeing to our favorite tunes and listening to Paul Harvey tell us stories of the day. I still look back on those days with fondness, not with pain. We made it fun. We still worked.

My mom managed and ran the local cafe' in the farm town where we grew up. Now, talk about work! That was hard work. In spite of the difficulties of working daily with the public, toiling in poor air conditioning, cooking, washing dishes by hand, and so on and on (with cafe' work, the jobs are endless) we managed to find humor in unlikely places. For example, my Granny came to help us every afternoon. One time, she passed by a rather large farmer sitting at the bar. His jeans were sagging (which was not popular in those days) exhibiting his rather generous behind. Granny dropped a piece of ice down his pants as she innocently passed behind him on her way to the kitchen. He never flinched. Mama and I observed this from the kitchen and were laughing so uncontrollably that we had trouble getting through the rest of the day.

Point of all this? Lighten up, people! We all know work is work. But state of mind, attitude, and lightness of heart count for so much. Probably lengthens the life span as well. I'm sure there are statistics out there somewhere to support my belief. Don't drag yourself down or your family or friends or colleagues by believing otherwise. Be the sunshine, not the rain. You'll accomplish a lot more. I promise.

To See Ourselves as Others See Us

2009-09-04T15:26:00.000-07:00

Alan admired himself in the gilded mirror, preening. Alissa came up behind him, observing the devil in his image.

Intent only on himself, Alan didn't see her and her delicate hand hidden from his view. Taking a deep breath, Alissa gathered her strength, thrusting the blade straight into his back.

Alan never saw it coming.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit G-Man, Galen at Mr. Know It All. Have a glorious weekend. Be unsettling. D

BREEZE

2009-08-28T08:13:00.000-07:00

Moisture matted my hair as I tossed and turned, my bed sheets soaking. Humid heaviness hung in the air. Florida summer is so hot.

"Must sleep."

I had to open the bedroom window. A whisper of cool freshness wafted in, finally refreshing me. It was a small window opening. Innocuous.

That's how he got in.

If you written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All, and let him know. Have a safe, secure weekend. Be vigilant. Donnetta

OMEGA

2009-08-21T07:22:00.000-07:00

Zach rested against the cool white bed sheets, the corners of his think lips slightly twitching. He was done. All used up. The last of his kind.

First the plague came; then the seasons went extreme. Finally, the asteroid hit. Now there was no one but himself.

Mercifully, he breathed his last. All was accomplished.

If you written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All. Have a healthy weekend. Be clever! Donnetta

WEARY

2009-08-14T09:23:00.000-07:00

At 58, Detective Richard Winston grew weary. He found himself today at yet another crime scene.

"Blood, guts, crazy people." That was the recurring "MO."

As the squad car lights oscillated outside the front door of the Florida condominium, Dick kneeled, scrutinizing the oozing body.

He shook his head. Tired of vigilence. Tired of duty.

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All. Have a fun filled weekend. Be lighthearted. Donnetta

Hands on Writing

2009-08-08T12:33:00.000-07:00

Nathan took his time with the nylon thread. The pinkie finger was tricky. He tailored the wrist edges gingerly as the finishing touch.

Resting peacefully in the pool of blood, Tom's writing career was done. The sacrifice was appreciated and necessary.

Nathan eased into the custom gloves, author's magic hands. At last, he could write!

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-man, Mr. Know It All. Have a lazy, hazy summer weekend. Be gracious. Donnetta

NOTE: For those of you who didn't catch on last Friday, the name of the space ship is the zip code for Punta Gorda, Florida and the name of the planet is Punta Gorda spelled backwards. Firefly said it was a mouthful! D

Hands On Writing

2009-08-07T08:54:00.001-07:00

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen at G-man, Mr. Know It All. Have a lazy, hazy summer weekend. Be gracious. Donnetta

NOTE: For those of you who didn't catch on last Friday, the name of the space ship is the zip code for Punta Gorda, Florida and the name of the planet is Punta Gorda spelled backwards. Firefly said it was a mouthful! D

Up, Up, and Away

2009-07-30T12:05:00.001-07:00

Kiera gazed out the thermoshield window of the FL33950 Great Ship as engines propelled passengers and crew beyond light speed to Atnupadrog. Such a peaceful, remote planet.

She knew, once there, she and husband, Bert, would enjoy it. Still, there was something bittersweet about leaving Earth.

She closed her eyes. “There's no place like home.”

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to tell Galen, G-Man at Mr. Know It All. Have a restful weekend. Be true. Donnetta

AND MANY MORE

2009-07-28T18:49:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY HUBBY!

Today is hubby's 65th birthday. He's been taking it very well. He looks much younger than 65 and is definitely full of piss and vinegar. We went out to eat this evening and split a large fudge brownie dessert covered in ice cream and chocolate syrup. Of course, I've been teasing him about being an "old fart" now. He just agrees with me. Nothing to argue with there. I just thought it would be nice to take tonight to remind him of all the wonderful accomplishes he has under that "old fart" belt! And here are just a few:

1. Survived growing up in Brooklyn without incurring too many bumps and bruises (many interesting memories, however).

2. Made it back from the Vietnam war alive and all in one piece, even surviving malaria. Good Marine.

3. Saved lives during the war (whether he admits it or not).

4. Obtained a PhD in psychology.

5. Helped a lot of children and families through his clinical services.

6. Taught graduate programs at more than one university, enlightening many students.

7. Researched, written, and presented on a plethora of topics related to his field.

8. Administrated several difficult programs successfully (when no one else could do it).

9. Came to the aid of family and friends when they needed him the most.

10. Married me.

I'd say that's a pretty good list of accomplishments. There are many more too numerous to list.

So, here's to you, hubby! Have a terrific birthday. You should be proud of yourself. I am proud of yourself. Love, Me.

FERAL

2009-07-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

Maiyun rescued him in the woods. She nurtured, protected. She provided safety and warmth.

Relishing the raw meat, Kuckunniwi wiped blood from his chin. The youth did not miss “Mommy” whose memory was five years distant.

He purred, petting the she-wolf's silver fur. Both content.

When hunters approached, he growled fiercely, warning them away.

If you have written a Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to tell Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All. Have a safe weekend. Be courageous. Donnetta

Wondering and Wandering: A Rose by Any Other Name

2009-07-22T15:27:00.000-07:00

Living on a small farm when you are really not a farm kid is challenging. How well I remember those days. My dad was a construction worker traveling from job to job and dragging my brother, my mom, and me along with him. Finally, when his alcoholism got the best of him, he hauled us to his father's old house in southwestern Oklahoma on the farm. I was thirteen, and my brother was eleven.

The farm house was actually an old two room schoolhouse that had been renovated (I use the term loosely) to be transformed into a home. It had huge living and dining areas, the original two rooms. Added on were two small bedrooms with a bathroom between them. The house was a frame house with the foundation supported by cinder blocks. The space between the flooring of the house and the ground made a natural habitat for, well, creatures! Usually these creatures were harmless. We found a mama cat and kittens once. Racoons liked to hide out there occasionally.

One fall, a family of skunks, meaning no harm to anyone, innocently made our home, their home, too. They settled in quietly under the house. I'm not sure how long they had been in residence, but apparently one day something surprised, frightened, or threated the mother skunk who did what all mothers around the world do. She protected her young. The bad part for us was the obvious: she sprayed.

Now, it may seem that her spraying was not that big of a deal since none of us were sprayed directly. Not so. Anyone with skunk experience knows that to be in close proximity for any length of time means that you will smell like skunk. That's all there is to it. You will smell like skunk. And it takes great effort and passage of time to get over it.

I remember my dad was able to remove the skunks, although this was after the fact of the skunk spraying. I recall it involved setting traps. Mother, my brother, and I didn't want to know more than that about skunk removal as we thought of the odorous critters as God's own, granting them anthropomorphic attributes of sadness and hopelessness. It was just better not to know the details.

The truly bad part was having to go to school. Mother did her best washing our clothes. Of course, we bathed and washed our hair. But a faint scent clung to us no matter how hard we scrubbed. And then there were our winter coats. It was a cool fall and coats simply had to be worn to school. Although Mother hung our coats out on the clothesline behind the house in order to air them out, skunk fumes clung to them.

I remember sitting on the curb in front of the school after lunch with Kathy, Caroline, and Elaine. They hadn't mentioned the obvious although I was certain they were aware of it. Oh, it was there. Even if it were only faintly there, it was definitely there. As luck would have it, a new girl to our class, Vicki, who was even poorer than I was and had absolutely no class, came over to our little group and announced, “Someone smells like skunk.” I remember she scrunched up her pug nose and waved her fat short fingered hand wildly in front of her face.

I was humiliated. Someone said it out loud. I would not have been so heartbroken if it just hadn't been said out loud. But there it was. Skunk. Skunk stench. And it was me.

For a moment, no one said a word. My small circle of friends was a kind one. Someone would lie rather hurt another person's feelings. And that's exactly what happened.

Standing up to her full height (Elaine was a full 3 to 4 inches taller than the rest of us), Elaine stared Vicki coldly in the eye and said, “It's that car parked right there.” She motioned to her side where a couple of teachers' cars were parked in front of the school. “Must have run over a skunk.” Then she rounded up our group saying, “Come on, lets go. The bell is going to ring in a minute.” Whereupon Kathy, Caroline, and I followed her up the steps to the school door, leaving Vicki and her nose behind.

It took several days and more airing out of the coats in the evenings on the clothesline to get them deodorized. Eventually, the malodorous scent subsided at least to the point that it was no longer stand-out obvious. But I was crushed. Not only was I poor, but I also smelled. It took a lot of bolstering self-talk to get over it. I told myself that it didn't matter. I was smart. I had nice hair. I made good grades. My teeth were pretty. I wrote poetry. As would be said years later on Saturday Night Live, “By golly, I was worth it!” But it was painful. Thirteen year old girls are sensitive on a good day, let alone on a skunk day.

Point of the story? I don't know. Maybe the old adages about being kind to others and thinking before speaking. Or maybe I'm just over identifying with Pepe Le Pew.

FAVORITE RECIPE

2009-07-17T17:50:00.000-07:00

First, open the bag and set it down beside you. Next, brew a nice fresh pot of coffee. Get a large mouthed cup. Mmm. Smell that rich aroma! Reach into the bag and get just one. Open it and lick out the filling. Now, dip it into the coffee. Enjoy!

How do you eat Oreo cookies?

If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to visit Galen and G-Man, Mr. Know It All. Have a scrumptious weekend. Be imaginative! D

WONDERING AND WANDERING: ON THE ROAD?

2009-07-15T20:30:00.000-07:00

Hubby and I have been running around like a couple of chickens with their heads cut off for the last two days. Now that I'm retired we are actually thinking of--OH MY--buying a travel trailer or a 5th wheeler. So we have been window shopping in the metro area. Yep, it's a bit of an old fart thing to do. What can I say? Life just keeps marching on, and I guess we are marching, predictably, with it.

Here we are on the evening of Day 2 of the search, utterly exhausted and more confused than ever. We certainly do not want to purchase a unit and then be sorry about our choice. But, at this point, all the trailers are blending into one big mobile mess in our tired heads.

So, I am looking to readers go give me information and guidance. Who amongst you has owned a one of these units?

What tips could you share regarding "do's" and "don'ts?" Anything we should avoid? Anything we should insist upon including? Any good stories or bad stories, as the case may be, to share? Any pros and cons about travel trailers versus 5th wheelers? Any serious or not so serious input is greatly appreciated as these two novice campers don't know a blasted thing about what they are doing!

I'm having visions of Chevy Chase in the wilderness, his camper hanging by one wheel precariously on a cliff. Chevy is sweating, racing around the outside of the thing, trying to figure out how he arrived at this point and how he can save the situation. All looks pretty bleak. And then he sneezes! A slow rumble builds as the desperately clinging wheel dislodges, inches forward and finally tumbles into--oblivion.

(PS Hubby is attempting at this moment to correct some of my simple minded terminology about these things. Ah, well. Live with it. D)

EXIT

2009-07-10T07:14:00.000-07:00

Tom stared admiringly across the beach at Betty, his binoculars focused on her delicate brown body. He loved her for so long now. Craved her. Although he entreated her to give in to his hungry pleas, she refused.

If only her husband Jerry were not in the way.

Tom raised the gun. Pulled the trigger.

(Question: So who was killed?) If you have written a Friday Flash 55 story that you would like to share, be sure to tell Galen at G-Man, Mr. Know It All. Have a bang up weekend. Be witty. Donnetta

Heading back for Oklahoma Sunday morning. Hope to catch up with everyone sometime next week. I certainly dread the long drive back, but it will be good to see home again. We managed to wallpaper the entry way and the kitchen of the Florida house as well as painting the master bedroom closet and vanity area and installing new shelves. Whew. I think I need to rest up now! They say there is no rest for the wicked! hahaha (evil laugh) Trust that everyone is doing well and enjoying their summer. D