January, 2009
Fairy Tale
A Storybook Style house. A storybook marriage. He, the evil ogre; she, the wicked queen.
Once upon a time, they were nice people. Now, only The End can bring them to a happily-ever-after.
February, 2009
Snow Man
The doorbell, then a yelp. It’s my boyfriend, wearing a hat of snow from the roof.
I give him cocoa with whipped cream.
He gives me a diamond ring.
In June, the whitest thing on earth will be my dress.
March, 2009
Blow By Blow
They trade punches, each one harder than the last.
Finally, one of them says, “Ow!”
Little boys. Best friends.
April 2009
Resurrection
The door swings open and I come forth into the light. Three steps, and I’m free. I’ve done my time, and a new life can begin.
May 2009
Gully-Washer
That’s what we call a heavy rain. Washed out the wrong gully for Mac’s “widow.”
We never did believe Mac ran off with a traveling saleswoman.
June 2009
A Love For All Time
His name is August. Her name is June. Will this marriage last? It may… it just may.
July 2009
First of Season
I beat Jones to it, this year. I had to kill him and torch his garden, but my tomatoes ripened first.
The warden says you can bring me one.
August 2009
Handicap
“Meat at two o’clock,” she tells me. “Peas at five, potatoes at eight.”
How do those unfortunates who’ve only known digital clocks find their food?
September 2009
Around the Corner
Dropped out soon as I could. The street’s where it’s at–money, fame, power. Been a long twenty years, but any minute now….
October 2009
Return Engagement
“Edward!”
“I told you I’d come back for you.”
“It can’t be!”
“I told you I’d come back.”
“But you’re dead!”
“I’ve come back. For you.”
November 2009
Thanksgiving Prayer
For sweet potatoes, squash, beans, corn, cranberries and hunters with bad aim, Great Father of All Turkeys, we thank thee.
December 2009
Christmas Present
My friend invites us all to stick gift bows on her bald head. The chemo is going well, and she’s what we all asked for.
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Go to the Flashbacks link for all years’ Hot Flashes.
