An old man once lived there, in the small house, years, generations, decades ago. The chimney is left standing and a few walls cling to each other, as if in comfort in this wilderness of bushes, weeds, vines, rose bushes, and oak trees. He was not a hospitable man. He kept to himself, except […]
Sep 15, 2022
Houses and Homes
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God bless the corners of this house. This is part of an Irish blessing on a home. May your home be the place, a sanctuary of everlasting peace, begins a Jewish blessing. May the warm winds of heaven blow softly upon your house. May the Great Spirit bless all who enter there. May your moccasins make happy tracks in […]
Sep 14, 2022
Star Spangled Cat
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In honor of the birthday of our National Anthem, I re-print my story about the cat who helped Mr. Key on his endeavor. Star Spangled Cat By Blanche Day Manos “What?” I screeched. “Go to sea? Are you crazy?” Every one of my gray and white hairs stood straight up. Reggie laughed. “You look […]
Sep 13, 2022
Edging into Fall
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Would you believe it’s 55 degrees this morning? Yesterday morning, very early, the thermometer registered 49. It never fails to surprise me, each fall, when the earth begins to cool toward winter. Yet, the same thing happens year after year, and to me, it’s reassuring. Yesterday morning, when I poured water into my coffee maker, […]
Sep 9, 2022
The Secret of Singing Pines
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Okay, Cozy Critters, and anyone else who has an opinion. What do you think of this as an opening for my fifth Ned McNeil moonlight mystery? I’m not going to finish this here, I’m working on it, though. Just wanted to ask if this is an opening that makes you want to read more. What […]
Sep 7, 2022
Drowsy September Morning
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My street is waking up this morning. Daylight lengthens; shadows grow fainter while treetops turn golden from the rising sun. My thoughts, too, are stirring slowly, thinking about the day before me. Another mystery beckons, but I wonder…should I continue with the fifth Ned McNeil moonlight mystery or should I branch out with a new […]
