Not a Story!

This is more by way of explanation than anything, I guess. I’ve felt badly about failing to read every story for the past couple of weeks, as is my habit. 

I am asthmatic, usually under good control. But every now and then, it gets the best of me and puts me out of commission. I’ve been quite sick for the past couple of weeks. If you have asthma, or know someone who does, you’ll understand. Details not necessary. Having an attack over the holidays is truly not fair!

However, I am thankful for effective medications that help keep my airways open. As I age, it just becomes a little harder to recover.

I do so enjoy being part of this creative group! This note is just to wish you all a happy and fulfilling new year, and again, to explain my limited participation.

Homesick

PHOTO PROMPT © Rochelle Wisoff-Fields

“You know, Zing, I don’t thing there’s really any end to the strange things earth people do. Look at that building. It’s like a set of child’s bricks were just piled on top of each other.”

“It does. Like any strong wind could blow it down. “

“And the strange glyphs they use. That round thing could be an ancient warrior’s shield, I suppose. “ 

“Do you ever get homesick?”

“Certainly. I crave the clean, uncluttered lines of Zerkon.”

“Wanna request a home leave?”

“Starting today!”

Tagged!

PHOTO PROMPT © Rowena Curtin

“Oh, #*&^! I’m out of paint! You got anything left?”

“Nah. Used it all up, just been watchin’ you. Looks like you’re done.”

“I wanted to tag it.”

“Everybody will know it’s you. Got your style an’ all. Let’s go!”

They tossed their gear over the fence and clambered up after it. As they slid down the other side, a broken wire snagged JJ’s coat.

“Hah!” said his buddy. “Looks like you left a tag after all!”

Helpful Aliens

PHOTO PROMPT © Susan Rouchard

(In whispers): ”Hey, Zang! Linda’s having trouble coming up with an idea for this prompt.”

“Yes, I noticed. Anything we can do to help?”

“Dunno. She doesn’t usually go blank. Maybe she can’t see the picture clear enough. Old eyes, y’know.”

“Well, it looks like maybe what earth people say are angels? Old-fashioned soldiers? And someone’s kneeling there in the front.”

“Yeah, but what are all the candles for?”

“Dunno that, either. Prayers, maybe. Or memorials.” 

‘Uh-oh. Looks like she’s wrapping it up for this week.”

“Yeah, it’s a shame. Nice prompt.”

Mom’s Meltdown

PHOTO PROMPT © Ted Strutz

“This is ridiculous! I tried so hard to find a system to keep this from happening, but you’ve defeated me. Do what you want, I don’t care any more. Just keep your mess out of the kitchen and the living room.”

Everyone was quiet. Mom rarely had an outburst, so they knew she was serious.

When she returned from a shopping trip, she was stunned to see an orderly row of cubbies in place of baskets. Each was labeled with a name, and neatly filled with footwear. There was no excess. Neat as a pin.