The Cozy Shivers

When my grandchildren were small, we sometimes entertained each other by making up stories. Such was the case one cold, winter day several years back. “Let’s tell scary stories,” I said. “OK,” they agreed. I went first. I thought I was doing pretty well, building up to an exciting and shivery climax. “Mem, that’s not […]

Who Was That Little Fellow?

This isn’t St. Patrick’s Day, but, oh well…the world is pretty and green this morning, so here’s a stretch to the imagination. One soft and misty morning, on a day so fine and rare, My heart felt light as birdsong, without one single care, As I strode through the heather into a forest tall, I […]

A Stranger at the Gate

A Stranger at the Gate

I was so lost in thought that I was halfway up my driveway before I noticed a long, black vehicle parked in front of the wrought iron gate. Another visitor? Jackie drove a double cab gray truck and Pat’s car was a small, blue compact. I pulled alongside the shiny SUV, admiring its sleek lines. […]

The Fifties Woman

The Fifties Woman

She got up from the chair and walked to the mirror. A sagging, lined face topped with frizzy blond hair stared back at her. Old! That’s what the face was telling her. She was an old woman, over the hill, almost ready for the old folks’ home.  Sighing, she turned from the mirror and went […]

It Wasn’ His Fault

It Wasn’ His Fault

Is the past really the past or does it reappear now and then? I saw one of my old college professors the other day, even though he has been dead a good number of years. Now, before you think I’ve gone completely round the bend, let me explain. Actually, I didn’t see him but I […]

History Has Its Mysteries

Writers of mysteries have only to look back in history to find inspiration. Just a hint of a mystery is enough to get a writer started with, what if… From its earliest days, America has had its share of real life mysteries. In fact, a Puritan leader, John Winthrop, one of the founders of Boston, […]