"A New Year" by Llola Lane

"A New Year" by Llola Lane

As I look at the candle's flame flickering in the window I realize that all too soon the Christmas decorations will be taken down and a new year will begin.  My mind is transported back through the past year.  A lot has happened in my life and I am grateful for every little adventure and sad for loved ones passed.

"Family Photo" by Llola Lane

"Family Photo" by Llola Lane
(Inspired by the From our Family greeting card)

Papa checked the tripod to make sure it was steady. He wanted the family photo this year to be perfect. None of those "store bought" photo greeting cards from HIS family. He knew how to work a camera. Paying someone was just spending money foolishly. Looking through the camera he peered at his family.

The Old Gang – Lillian Morpork

The Old Gang – Lillian Morpork

Alex Mitchell sighed and looked around. All the old gang were here, just the way they had been that New Year’s Eve so many years ago. Older yes; many white haired, some bald or balding; not as slender and agile, but still the same group as had gathered here forty five years ago. He smiled contentedly, and sipped his drink. Nancy looked over and smiled, too, lifted her glass and glanced around at the people, then took a sip. Yes, she understood how he was feeling; all of them together again to celebrate yet another new year.

Christmas is: by Lillian Morpork

Christmas is:  by Lillian Morpork


Christmas is: candles and candy canes, cookies and carols, Christmas cards and chocolates.
Christmas is: holly and happiness, high jinks and holidays, hopefulness and handicrafts.
Christmas is: red bows and red noses, reindeer and right poses, ribbons and red roses.

"A Candle in a Window" by Lillian Morpork

"A Candle in a Window" by Lillian Morpork

The young woman stumbled through the snow, shivering, exhausted, but struggling on for the sake of her unborn child. It was so cold the snow squeaked under her feet. The young woman's coat was thin and frayed, and she wore a thin scarf over her head. Her face looked frost bitten, and she could hardly feel her hands and feet. She was weighed down by the large bag that hung from one side, strap crossing from right shoulder to left hip. ‘Please, please, let me find shelter, a warm place for my baby,’ she prayed. ‘You provided a stable for Jesus and my baby is as free of sin. He deserves to live. Just let me find a warm place and kind people, and I will die willingly, if that is your will.’

"Family Photo" by Llola Lane

"Family Photo" by Llola Lane
(Inspired by the From our Family greeting card)

Papa checked the tripod to make sure it was steady.  He wanted the family photo this year to be perfect.  None of those "store bought" photo greeting cards from HIS family.  He knew how to work a camera.  Paying someone was just spending money foolishly.  Looking through the camera he peered at his family. 

"The Totem Tree" by Lillian Morpork

"The Totem Tree" by Lillian Morpork
Pictures: both bridges- also the trees at the end of the gallery

Lucy Brightstar walked for miles through the snow, crossing bridges and fields, until at last she stood at the edge of a forest clearing, staring at the pine tree. She had seen it in the summer, and noticed how it seemed to have faces, one above the other amazingly like a totem pole. Now, covered in snow, the faces stood out clearly. First, from the bottom up, were three old man faces, shaggy beards and mustaches, mouths not quite smiling. The middle one’s eyes seemed to twinkle, and they all looked like someone’s favourite grandfather, the one you would be willing tell all of your secrets, and know they would be safe.

Your Inspiration for November-December 2014

Choose any of  the Greeting Cards shown for your inspiration

"An Unusual Journey" by Lillian Morpork

"An Unusual Journey" by Lillian Morpork

Alex Martin sat in his usual place by the window. He liked sitting there, because he could see out and watch the people, animals, butterflies and birds going by.  As he watched, he made up stories about where they were going, what magical things would happen to them, and how they would cope. Only today, he couldn’t see anything. Jack Frost had been busy during the night and had painted a truly magical scene on the window. 

A Candle in the Window - by Sven Pertelson

There is a candle burning in my window for anyone to see as they walk past. What message they take from it depends on them.

"A Time Travel Tale" by Lillian Morpork

"A Time Travel Tale" by Lillian Morpork

I was just arriving home from work, admiring the Christmas decorations on the house when I thought I heard a voice cry out in the back yard. I walked around the house and waded through the snow, heading for the back fence, and looking around for any disturbance or even a body in the snow, but there was only smooth, unbroken snow. When I was almost at the gate I noticed that it was open, and the snow was disturbed and a patch of red startled my eyes. It looked as though someone had fallen and gashed their head on something, but there was no body, and the snow all around was undisturbed. It looked as though the body had fallen in the snow, and disappeared into thin air. 

Your Inspiration for October 2014

Pointing by Walt Ireton

Hallowe’en Fun - by Lillian Morpork

Two young ladies were out for some fun,
The sun was setting, the day’s work done,
So first they set out for a refreshing run.
It was Hallowe’en.

The Vibrant Vampires – part 4 – Lillian Morpork

The Vibrant Vampires – part 4 – Lillian Morpork

“Well, guys, lets load up the van and go!” Vanessa called to the laughing, playacting group of vampires. They were all in costume, and trying to act as scary as they could, though that was hard, since they were all laughing too much.  Still laughing and giggling, they all gathered up jackets, music and instruments and loaded them into the van, while Vanessa watched and checked everything off on a list. She said she didn’t want to get to the Atlantis Pavillions and find they had left something essential behind.

Vibrant Vampires – part 3 – Lillian Morpork

It was two weeks later, and nearly everyone had gathered for rehearsal. Blaize had called to say he’d be a little late, and was bringing a couple of guys to balance out the numbers. There was a cacophony of sound as some ran through this piece or that; some did voice exercises and other chatted. There was an almost unheard rap on the door, it swung open, and Blaize appeared with two other young men, matching in general appearance the Busy Bees.

“Hi, people!” Blaize called out, “meet Dennis and Darcy, brothers who are really good singers and they play several instruments. With them, we have an equal male female balance, and no matter how noisy the party is, we will still be heard!” He laughed and moved on in, followed by the two newcomers. Soon they were all set and rehearsal began.

“Let’s try It’s Hallowe’en,” Vanessa said. They played a short introduction and then they all sang. (me singing a bit) with Vanessa singing solo on the sister Jane part. When they finished they all broke up laughing, and complimenting each other on how well it had gone.

“Now” Barry said, “if we can get the rest down as well as that one, we will wow them at the party. We may even earn a bonus!” They all agreed, and the rehearsal went on.

Three hours passed and they stopped for the night. “I am really happy with our progress,” Valarie said. “With two weeks still to go, we should have all of the pieces as nearly perfect as man or woman can get.”

Can we run through Ring Around a Rosy one more. Please? I’d like to sing it just once more. I’m not completely satisfied, and maybe once more will do it.” Velma said

The others willingly settled down and they went through it again. (me singing)
“Ring around the rosie,
Pocket full of posie,
“Ashes, Ashes,
We all fall down.”

“Velma, there is no way you can improve on that!” Dennis exclaimed. “I have never heard it done creepier. But what in the heck is it about?”

In the 13th century, the Black Death (also called the Black Plague) killed so many people, many thought it was the end of the world. The nursery rhyme "Ring around the Rosie" came about during the time of the Black Death.

Here are what the lyrics mean:

Ring around the rosie is a reference to the black sores that would appear on your body as part of the plague. Your "rosie" is around the center of the back of your hand.

A pocket full of posies is a reference to people would carrying posies (flowers) around to not smell the sickening scent of dead bodies everywhere.

Ashes Ashes signifies the ashes from all the bodies being burned on pyres. Bodies couldn't be buried or else the infection would spread.

We all fall down signifies death or people falling down to hell because of their harsh and cruel ways.

“The second comes from Snopes – ‘The earliest print version was in Kate Greeaway’s “Mother Goose or The Old Nursery Rhymes” of 1881. Since folklorists had been collecting and putting into print bits and pieces of oral tradition such as Nursery Rhymes and Fairy Tales for hundreds of years, some version of Ring around the Rosie should have been in print before 1881. But in a span of five hundred years, no one had done so. If it had been from the 1347 plague it would be older than Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and there we would have examples in Middle English and Modern English forms.’

“But the Plague explanation is much more in keeping with Hallowe’en, so I vote for it!” Benji laughed, holding his hand up.

There was agreement all around as they gathered instruments, jackets and such, and headed out into the chilly night. Vanessa turned off the lights and locked the door. “That was a great rehearsal!” she said to Valarie, who agreed. “The addition of the seven guys really makes us sound great.” They turned to follow the others to the sidewalk, and wave them goodnight.

“Maybe we can stay together as a band after the gig. It does sound good, and it’s more fun having guys around.” Valarie giggled. “Lots more fun”

Vibrant Vampires – part 2 – Lillian Morpork

Vera was playing Bach’s Fugue in D Minor as she and the others waited for Valarie to return from an emergency meeting with Mrs. Palmer, the organizer of the Hallowe’en gig. The others were talking and giggling as they tried to sing at a masculine pitch. The door opened, and Valarie stepped in. There were figures behind her, but it was dark outside, and they were too dim to see.

Dark Shadows The Umbrella Killer...All Directions by Destiny Anwyl Mowadeng

A voice from what felt like inside a dream said Its A Girl and i opened my eyes. I glanced around the room and saw a doctor standing at the end of my bed but was shocked by what I saw standing next to him. It was me...but...How was that even possible ? I looked to the side of the bed and Caleb was holding my hand with one hand and had his face buried with the other. I tried my hardest too squeezes my sons hand but he just sat there as if not to feel me. I remember being home on my beloved island of Mowadeng the night of the storm and it being one night of the year our underworld opened up but then things got a little foggy.

The Vibrant Vampires – part1 – Lillian Morpork

The Vibrant Vampires – part1 – Lillian Morpork

Vanessa and Valarie Von Bleut walked into the revamped shed where their group rehearsed, bubbling with excitement. “We have a gig!” Vanessa shouted, grinning, with Valerie echoing the grin behind her. The other ‘Vees’, Velma, Vera, Veronica, Victoria and Vivian, all jumped up, shouting and doing a silly happy dance. They were all cousins, the Von Bleut sisters were identical twins; Velma and Vera were sisters, as were Vivian and Victoria. Their fathers were brothers and had married sisters, so the family resemblance was strong.

"Average" by Llola Lane

"Average" by Llola Lane

Sarah is average. She can't complain... Average is ok... Right??? She is of average build, of average height. Her features are average... Average nose.... Average mouth with lips painted crimson red... Her eyes are dark... Nothing really stands out on her exept for the clothes she wears. She always wears the best. Sometimes she had on pants... sometimes a dress... sometimes even, on special occasions, she wears a gown.

Galatea - by Sven Pertelson

How could I have not been attracted to her? She stood out from every other girl in the lecture theatre. Most of my fellow students, male and female, looked as if we had just been dragged unwillingly from our sleep, which was true for me, while others looked as if they had not had any sleep at all. She looked as if she was ready to walk down a fashion show cat walk.

Your Inspiration for September 2014

Choose any of the twelve pictures at the Gallery reperesenting the four seasons.

Sabbatical – part 3 - Winter – Lillian Morpork

Laura sat watching the scenery going by, noticing the signs of autumn; fields of golden wheat, yellow canola blossoms and tall stalks of corn glowing in the sunshine. There were apple tree laden with reddening fruit, pears turning yellow, and along the fence lines, goldenrod and cornflowers, reminding her of the children’s story about why you always see them together.

Farmer's Lament - by Marcus247

So, this is my home. I know it's not much, a little run down, a little bit like me these days, but it's home. It's a bit of a mess, I don't get visitors out here, just myself and the old dog there by the fire, and it’s just been the two of us for a very long time.

The Caretaker - Part 2 - by Sven Pertelson

He headed towards the exit and heard it again. No doubt this time. But what was it ? …

He could feel the hairs on the back of his neck rising. The sensation that someone or something unseen was watching him from the dark module ahead. He took a firm grip of the torch, its weight was comforting in a primitive way, like a caveman facing danger. The thought made him give a nervous smile. Here he was a quarter of a million miles from Earth and his subconscious was still wired for dealing with sabre toothed tigers.

"Baby Robins" by Llola Lane

"Baby Robins" by Llola Lane

Baby robins nesting way up in the tree
squeek and squawk as they look at me.

Sabbatical – Fall – part 2 – Lillian Morpork

Laura sat looking out the train window, watching the world go by; city, country, town and village, everything bursting with summer. The nice old gentleman, Isaac Goldberg, was an amateur historian and Rabbi, and had told her a lot of the history of the places they passed. He had changed trains at the stop after ‘Heaven’, and she missed him. She had chatted with other passengers, but he had been so informative.

It's a long way up. by Marcus247

Steve stood at the top of the bridge, looking down. The cool autumn air made him tug at his jacket, wrapping himself snuggly. He leant on the railing and sighed, pulling a cigarette from his pocket and lighting it. His eyes scanned around him, the hight of the bridge meant he could see for miles, the different coloured leaves on the trees, farmland in the distance, the air so still and quiet.

The Caretaker - Part 1 - by Sven Pertelson

The caretaker tensed as he heard the noise again. A soft sighing, like an indrawn breath. It seemed to come from the next module, Tulip, as he called it. There were 16 modules in all at the research station and each had a different picture in the central communal space. Each picture represented a season and there were four for each season.

Dark Shadows The Umbrella Killer...Twisted Paths - by Destiny

Late afternoon was approaching and being early in the fall the days drew colder as the sun was ready to set. Lilian lay helpless on the float for what seemed like days with each attempt making contact with the detective failing. Was he hearing Lilian at all was a question weighing heavily on her mind. The woods so dense it was hard to tell where one's voice was coming from or how far it would travel.

Sabbatical- Spring and Summer– Lillian Morpork

Pictures Bluebell Woods and Bridge to Heaven

Laura took one last look around the apartment, gathered her bags and walked out. As she locked the door, she was chanting “No more pencils, no more books, no more students’ dirty looks!” She giggled as she walked to the elevator. It was early May, her classes were over and she had a whole year to herself. She really needed it; this last two years had been a strain with the stupid new curriculum the board had foisted off one her.

"Fragile Flakes" by Llola Lane

"Fragile Flakes" by Llola Lane (inspired by the photograph "Fragile Flakes")

Fragile snow flakes sitting on a tree
Sparkle in the sun as they shine for me.

Your Inspiration for August 2014

Pure Bliss - by Kylie Jaxxon

"Point of no return" by Marita Decosta

"Point of no return" by Marita Decosta

She saw the outfit on the blow molded plastic ideal of a feminine form and just knew she had to have it, but never got to wear it, and probably never will. She dilly dallied for 30 days yet still had the receipt naturally.

Cold Case – part 3 – Lillian Morpork

Cold Case – part 3 – Lillian Morpork

Ronan sat at his desk chewing the end of his pen and frowning at the papers in the file on his desk. Nothing yet from forensics, no word from the hospital…he was getting very frustrated. Where had Laura been for all those seven years? Who was her abductor, imprisoner, and why was she place in the river on the lifebuoy? He threw the pen down and swore just as the phone rang. “Hello” he tried not to growl, but failed.

"The Hunt" by Gabrielle Wind

"The Hunt" by Gabrielle Wind

Few moments later I came to. I suddenly thought to myself what kind of dream did I have where I seen a small girl next to a jackalope and a chair floating on water. I just shrug and look over my body and notice that I had cuffs on my wrists and ankles. I let a deep sigh out.

Dark Shadows...The Umbrella Killer...The Investigation Begins by Destiny

Dark Shadows...The Umbrella Killer...The Investigation Begins by Destiny Part 2

Both the Investigator and Lilian began what seemed like a never ending walk up the steps to the front door. Suddenly Lilian heard a blood curdling scream from behind her and turned around to see the investigator trapped in a cage and hanging from the beam above the entrance to the door. Unable to reach or help him Lilian was at a lost as to what to do and the investigator told her to continue inside to look around passing her the key to the inside.

Cold Case – part 2 – Lillian Morpork

Cold Case – part 2 – Lillian Morpork

Ronan knelt beside the body of the young woman and felt her neck, searching for the carotid artery. He found a faint irregular pulse. She was cold from the water, but alive, though only just. He checked over her body quickly, finding no injuries except her left shoulder. It was broken. He stood and went to where he had dropped his coat, reached into the pocket and got out his phone.

"Marooned at Sea" by Llola Lane PART 2

"Marooned at Sea" by Llola Lane PART 2

I start to paddle towards the tree but it quickly fades as I lose track of it when the waves carry me up and down. The water is not peaceful anymore and I was right about the rain. Gentle droplets fall on my face. It feels good and I lick the drops that fall on my lips. I am lucky I had a big breakfast. I am not hungry yet but if I don't find the shoreline or get help soon, I will be.

Dark Shadows...The Umbrella Killer...The Investigation Begins by Destiny Anwyl Mowadeng

Dark Shadows...The Umbrella Killer...The Investigation Begins by Destiny Anwyl Mowadeng

"All aboard...Train leaves for the City Historical Development Office in five minutes." Lilian ran as fast as she could too get on the train too see what she could find out about the location of the house and who it now belonged to. She new the historical development office kept records of all land and home owners for the city and street address too each home in the two as well so she felt she was on the right path. Finally after a few stops it was Lilian's turn too get off the train and lucky for her it wasn't a long walk as the train stopped directly in front of the building. The building was old and Victorian style inside and out and a site too be captured to share with everyone.

Floating - by Sven Pertelson - (A 100 word story)

It is perfect. Floating all alone in calm waters, lit by golden sun. Not a breath of wind to ruffle the surface. I could stay like this for hours without moving a muscle.

"Marooned at Sea" by Llola Lane PART 1

"Marooned at Sea" by Llola Lane PART 1

Today I am back on my inner tube, floating in the water of my favorite spot. I allow my arms and legs to hang off the edge of the tube and into the cool water. I look up at the sky and see my zoo. It is still there... the birds... the butterfly... the bears... all my animals are safe in the zoo. I stare up at the sky and my eyes lids slowly close. It is so peaceful, before long I drift off to sleep. I dream of my zoo. When I waken my body aches, I am miles from the shoreline, and have no idea where I am!

Cold Case – part 1 – Lillian Morpork

Cold Case – part 1 – Lillian Morpork

Detective Inspector Ronan Alister Walsh drove out of the city and soon turned off onto a little used road that ran beside the river. It was his favourite place to go when he needed peace and quiet to think, and there was a cold case that was bothering him. He had led the team in the first investigations, and worked with the second team until it had to be declared cold and shelved until or if new clues were found.

"Marooned" by Llola Lane

"Marooned" by Llola Lane

Marooned... in my own little world. Marooned... and floating on an inner tube. It was my sanctuary and no one could take that away from me. Marooned... alone and yet not alone.

Dreams – Lillian Morpork

Dreams – Lillian Morpork


Drifting, dreaming dreams now dim

Where Olympians used to swim,

Your Inspiration for July 2014

Death Comes – part 5 – Lillian Morpork

Death Comes – part 5 – Lillian Morpork

Ricardo Urbani pounded his fist on the table and shouted “Two years! We’ve been searching for two years and still no viable antidote! Millions of children dead, more dying, and now it’s attacking the older ones, even up to seventeen! It’s hopeless!” He slumped in his chair and, elbows on table, dropped his head into his hands and sobbed.

Dark Shadows...The Umbrella Killer..Demons Within (P3D) by Destiny Anwyl Mowadeng

Dark Shadows...The Umbrella Killer..Demons Within (P3D) by Destiny Anwyl Mowadeng

Back in the hospital after being soaked to the skin she walked to the nurses desk letting them know she had returned and was going to her mother's room. On the way there she discovered a picture on the wall that she had not seen before and it caught her attention. On one side was a woman covered in a white sheet holding a baby and on the other a grim reaper. She felt a chill come over her and leaned in closer to see when the picture had been drawn and by whom. She touched the picture tracing the image with one finger and felt a sudden jolt of electricity go threw her entire body. She recalled the date being around the time the family lived in the old house she had read about being very close as well as the name of the artist being one of the members of the family living in the house at the time. This furthered her curiosity into the child, that house, anything linked to it and how her mother was involved. She stopped by the family room grabbing a cup of coffee pausing for a moment seeing Dr Luna who was seated reading what appeared to be a letter and crying. Lilian sat beside the doctor saying nothing until she was sure she had noticed her there. The two began talking briefly and the doctor explained that the letter was the last one she had ever gotten from her son who passed away suddenly in a car crash while returning to college. Lilian assumed by how upset the doctor was that today was the date the accident occurred but the only other detail she gave Lilian was the name Caleb.

"Need" by Enola Vaher

"Need" by Enola Vaher

I remember that day, or that is, I try to. I close my eyes and try to summon the details, those small details. You know the kind; the patterns on the side walk—the exact color of the bricks—the way the shadows shifted in the wind. Those details, those vivid details. But memory is a funny thing, for me at least. Things get smeared, like a surrealist painting, Dali on a bad day. Melted bright, too bright, yellows and somber ochre’s…clouded together. Colors that don’t make any sense. People move in slow motion in the memory, they are extras. Actors earning scale to move like animatrons, to move in slow motion in this surrealistic film with colors that make no sense.

"The Journey" by Pepper Chaffe PART 3

"The Journey" by Pepper Chaffe PART 3

I immediately searched for the path that led back to the light. The sun was beginning to sink lower in the sky with the colors of daylight changing into the warm hues of the approaching sunset. Things looked quite different today and I assumed it was the shadows that accompanied the sunset that made the difference.

Chapter Three - A Learning Process by Erin Hunter

The Hollow: The Mysterious Town

Chapter Three - A Learning Process by Erin Hunter

Joelle got up the next day feeling a bit sick but wasn't going to let that stop her for the day. She wanted to learn about some things about being the vampires that they are in this tiny town which she thinks the name of it has something to do with the name of the hospital.

Dark Shadows...The Umbrella Killers - Demons Within (Part 3D) - by Destiny Anwyl Mowadeng

Back in the hospital after being soaked to the skin she walked to the nurses desk letting them know she had returned and was going to her mother's room. On the way there she discovered a picture on the wall that she had not seen before and it caught her attention. On one side was a woman covered in a white sheet holding a baby and on the other a grim reaper. She felt a chill come over her and leaned in closer to see when the picture had been drawn and by whom.

Death Comes - part 4 - Lillian Morpork

Death Comes - part 4 - Lillian Morpork

“I know I’m behind on the news, but was this a known comet?” Mai Lee Sun asked.

“No, it wasn’t. According to David Levy of the Jarmac Observatory in West Virginia, it was a non- periodic and came through the solar system some 35 Million years ago, about the time meteor impacts created the Chesapeake Bay crater in the U.S., and the Popigai crater in Russia. The latest news from them is that they think it had a collision or very near miss that changed its orbit just enough to hit Earth. The event also weakened the core so when it got close to the sun, it broke up. That’s why the debris was scattered over such a wide area.”

Hands of fate - part 2 by Relay Caedmon

The Preaching had taken some time and my bench neigbours didnt noticed but i laid my hand on an old lady who had the mark further back She just closed her eyes and nobody really saw what happened.
I wonder i wonder if i should notice people that she is dead?

"The Journey" by Pepper Chaffe PART 2

"The Journey" by Pepper Chaffe PART 2

I began to relax a bit as I walked on. The uncertainty was gone now, replaced by an odd sense of calm and the sudden realization that this was my destiny. Yes, the light was my destiny. But what would I do once I got there? That thought was quickly put to rest as I realized that I would receive further instructions once I arrived there. Wouldn’t I? Of course I would. Nothing this important would be left to dangle helplessly in the wind. There was a purpose to all this, I was convinced of that. Again, that fleeting sense of uncertainty like the feeling one gets when they embark on any long journey. Did I leave the water run in the sink? Did I remember to turn off the coffeepot? There was something else. I couldn’t put my finger on it at first, but suddenly I realized that the buzzing in my head had ceased and I had no idea when, but at some point, the pounding in my head stopped! Things were finally beginning to look up.

Dark Shadows...The Umbrella Killer..Demons Within (Part 3C) - Destiny Anwyl Mowadeng

Watching her mother play with the child made Lilian feel a little sadness but filled with joy at the same time. A bond such as that the child and her mother had been nothing she had ever seen any other two people share. As she sat watching them play together she drifted off into her own little world but was soon brought back to reality after feeling a tap on the shoulder from behind her. Dr Luna finally got the results of the tests back and new what was going on with her mother. She sat with Lilian and began to explain what she thought might be happening and that it may be time to consider moving her mother to a more permanent residence or taking her home. After all her mother had gone through and seeing all that was involved with caring for her Lilian knew that home was not an option unless under the care of a full team of nurses and around the clock care like she was getting at the hospital. This was not an easy decision to make and it was all on her shoulders.

Chapter Two - The Hospital Visit by Erin Hunter

The Hollow: The Mysterious Town

Chapter Two - The Hospital Visit by Erin Hunter

Joelle walked to the hospital with her body guard by her. She wondered why her family like to live during the daytime and not the night like regular vampires but she had other things to find out first like how to get impregnated. She got to Black View Hollow Hospital which was the local hospital and it was only about a block from the castle.

Hands of fate Part 1 by Relay Caedmon

Hands of fate Part 1 by Relay Caedmon

His face first showed surprise before i saw fear in his eyes before the last life sparkle died in them. His body crumbled when it fell down in the mud with his head first. It looked little sad to see him with half his head into the muddy waterhole. A woman ran towards us but she did not seem to take any notice of me, but thats something i always expected.

Dark Shadows...The Umbrella Killer..Demons Within - part 3b - by Destiny Anwyl Mowadeng

The ladies were amazed by what they saw upon returning to the room. The girl was sitting on the bed with Lilian's mother. They both seemed to share some sort of bond beyond all other things. Her mother seemed to be unaware of what had taken place and seemed in a state of normal for the moment at least. She asked Lilian to join them so she did and by doing so she felt great warmth and love that she hadn't felt in so long that a tear fell from her cheek.

The News (Chapter One) by Erin Hunter (Tanneka)

The Hollow: The Mysterious Town

Chapter 1 - The News

In a small town where no one hardly ever goes is a family who thinks they rule the world. The Queen of the family and mayor of the town, Ana, has placed very strict rules on who can be in the town and also their reasons. Queen Ana has guards posted on every side of the town and they have the list of names of the residents. She allows no one to leave either unless there is an issue with a member of the family.

Death Comes - part 3 - Lillian Morpork

Death Comes - part 3 - Lillian Morpork

One end of the laboratory was blocked off with a frame covered in a heavy plastic sheet. From behind it comes the almost deafening sound of demolition as that wall is demolished. The team of researchers and support people has grown to the point of overcrowding, but all are busy. Two more electron microscopes had been added, and six more were in storage awaiting the end of the demolition and expansion of the lab.

"The Journey" by Pepper Chaffe PART 1

"The Journey" by Pepper Chaffe PART 1

Saturday, July 12th. The day was warm and humid, the dense clouds only serving to make for a very steamy day. It was going to storm. I could smell the approaching rain and felt the heaviness that always seems to announce the fury that is about be unleashed; the calm before the storm.

"Christmas Baby" by Llola Lane

"Christmas Baby" by Llola Lane

The snow is falling. It is that time of year again. When people talk of a baby boy born to a carpenter and his wife. It is a lonely time for me. I am alone and pregnant this year. The baby's father up and left me the moment he found out I was pregnant. So... I'm forced to live in a small one bedroom apartment at the end of town. I don't have much money. I live mostly on the charity of others. I am thankful for the food banks and my neighbors. I have a lot to be thankful for, but it is still not my favorite time of year. I long for the warmth of summer... the tulips of spring... the smell of falling leaves from autumn... anything but cold and snow. I pull my scarf up over my mouth and open the door to the outside world. A cold wind greets me as I go outside.

Death Comes – part 2 – Lillian Morpork

Death Comes – part 2 – Lillian Morpork



The line of boxy, human-like figures walked slowly, line abreast, silhouetted by the sunset. In a helicopter hovering above, three doctors watched as the figures moved, one or another, so two or three at once, stopped, bent, and picked something up with an odd wand and placed it in a box held in the other.

Death Comes – part 1 – Lillian Morpork

Death Comes – part 1 – Lillian Morpork

They stood, gazing at the tiny figure in the crib, emaciated and twisted from terrible pain, and sighed. “How many is that?” the man asked.

“Today, this week, or since the beginning?” the woman replied. “I can give you figures for all three.”

“This week, here at St. Michael’s, for a start.” He told her.

Dark Shadows...The Umbrella Killer..Demons Within - part 3a - by Destiny Anwyl Mowadeng

Lilian sat beside her mothers bedside awaiting news from the doctor about how the treatment went. Through the window the sun was shining on the patient in the next bed, who had just been transfered from an institution across town. She stepped a little closer to the sheet-covered figure and was startled by what she heard. It was not the voice of an older lady like she expected but the cries of a very young child. She, much like her mother, was a very nurturing person and felt drawn to whoever was under there but afraid she'd hurt the child she stepped away and returned to reading her book. The hustle and bustle of the hospital made it hard to concentrate on reading because her mind was focused on the whimpering cries from the next bed. Suddenly over the speaker came an announcement requesting that she go to treatment room 3.

"Life and Death" by Llola Lane

"Life and Death" by Llola Lane

Life and Death go hand in hand
it is the cycle of our existance.

Your Inspiration for June 2014

 

Stately Pleasure Dome - Watercolour by Skyblue Earthboy

The Pleasure Dome - part 4 by Lillian Morpork

The Pleasure Dome - part 4 by Lillian Morpork

“So twice five miles of fertile ground
With walls and towers were girdled round;
And there were gardens bright with sinuous rills,
Where blossomed many an incense-bearing tree;
And here were forests ancient as the hills,
Enfolding sunny spots of greenery.”

Rosalie's Adventures in the Clouds - Part 5 - by Sven Pertelson

… “Curiouser and curiouser.” said Deety, “If you and Rosalie could excuse us for a few moments, we need to quickly dash back home, I think I may have left some cakes in the oven. We will be right back and bring some cake back.” With that Deety shepherded her family back into their continua craft, woke Gay , the craft's brain, and returned them to the time and place they had left moments earlier.

"The Road to the Dome" Part 3 by Llola Lane

"The Road to the Dome" Part 3 by Llola Lane

Walking back to the dome I couldn't shake the feeling that IT didn't want me to see it. I had helped two people and I knew they were more important than a silly dome. But this was becoming a game for me. Would I see it today or not? The dome area was strangely quiet. The sun was setting in the sky. As I walked up to the doors I noticed the sign. "CLOSED"

The Pleasure Dome - part 3 - Lillian Morpork

“Children,” father said as they all gathered bright and eager for breakfast and the day’s outing. “Your mother is not feeling well, so I am afraid we will not be going to the Pleasure Dome today.”

Rosalie's Adventures in the Clouds - Part 4 - by Sven Pertelson

Somewhere, some when, in a fictional universe far far away Deety Carter and her father, Jacob Burroughs were discussing just what constituted reality as they returned from an afternoon walk on the planet of Tellus Tertius. They were nearing the last bend in the road before they would enter the multicoloured confection of a building that they had been invited to call home by its owner Lazarus Long and his extended family.

"The Road to the Dome" Part 2 by Llola Lane

"The Road to the Dome" Part 2 by Llola Lane

"Great... I really would like to get back to the Dome and check it out." I made my way to the door but was stopped by Tommy's father. He shook my hand and said... "The Dome will be closed by now. It closes early today. Please come and have some dinner with us?" I shook my head yes and said "O.k... I guess I'll go visit the Dome tomorrow."

Stately Pleasure Dome – Walking Home by SkyBlue Earthboy

Stately Pleasure Dome – Walking Home by SkyBlue Earthboy

As he walked up the drive back to the house he could feel the sand and mud caked on his trousers from where he'd been digging for treasure. Bushes and trees along the way started flashing bright rainbow colours of piercing, glowing light from the raindrops hanging on their leaves. Birds, noticing the special occasion, sang more melodically. The blackbird was inspired to start a new song. Flowering shrubs on either side seemed to flower more intensely.

Pleasure Dome – part 2 Lillian Morpork

Pleasure Dome – part 2 Lillian Morpork

Winter passed and spring came, and all Trystan could think about was the Pleasure Dome. The two sections he had toured in the fall with Mother and Father had been so wonderful, so exciting, that he wanted more. He knew, of course, that there was more, the rest of the first floor and all of the second. But it had been decreed that any other trip was to include the whole family, and so it couldn’t happen until the school holidays for Lancelot and Clarissant. He sighed. That seemed so far away!

"The Road to the Dome" Part 1 by Llola Lane

"The Road to the Dome" Part 1 by Llola Lane

I saw the two figures on the road ahead of me. Their shadows were dark in the bright sun. I could see they were traveling in the same direction as me. I was heading to the dome building at the end of the road. Someone told me it was worth seeing. I really didn't know what to expect. The anticipation in me was growing as I got closer to the building.

"What do tortoise eat?" by Marita Decosta

"What do tortoise eat?" by Marita Decosta

The tortoise showed up one day in the front yard. I called it a box turtle but my son reminded me it was a tortoise not a turtle there was a big difference Turtles were water born and tortoise were land animals which was a big difference. I remembered the little box turtles I had as pets, I was given as pets and the little plastic tub buckets they were contained in with the little plastic palm tree that was in it it and feeding them dried mosquitoes watching them eat but very soon they died just like gold fish.

Dark Shadows: The Umbrella Killer...The World Beyond Me (Part 2) - By Destiny

After falling for what seemed like an eternity, I came to a sudden halt with a huge splat. I stumbled onto my feet and looked around, unable to see anything that looked familiar. Unlike my home in the dark, this place was bright with colors and blurry creatures. The creatures seemed to be spinning in circles around me so fast that it made me dizzy. I shut my eyes and reopened them discovering that the world was pictures of my life and the creatures were indeed people I knew. Where was I? Where were my children?

The Pleasure Dome - Part 1 - by Lillian Morpork

The Pleasure Dome
With thanks to Samuel Taylor Coleridge 

“My dear,” Merlin Forsyth said, “have you seen this article about the new building that is going up on the Arbuthrite estate?”

“Why, no, I haven’t. What does it say?” Lady Forsyth looked up from her embroidery, an interested smile on her face.

"Together" by Llola Lane

"Together" by Llola Lane

The sun shines down on me and thee
it's warm rays beckon us onward.

Your inspiration for May 2014

"Dark Shadows: The Umbrella Killer" Part 1 by Destiny

"Dark Shadows: The Umbrella Killer" Part 1 by Destiny

It was a typical rainy day in the seaside town of Mowadeng. Most people and animals were hiding from the storm. Not many people knew this land existed nor the great secret, which it held, making it all the more safe for the people who lived there. There was a legend that was told as far back as I can recall of an underground city that lay beneath my beloved land. It was a city different from our own where human kind lived and was something of a tall tale for those in our home.

"The Past" by Gabrielle Wind for May 2014

"The Past" by Gabrielle Wind for May 2014

“Nope I just going to help you out from now on since I seen the power you have with in, but it seems you are still having a hard time controlling them.” She said looking at me.
“Yeah I seem to only have good control of the fire and earth powers but I not sure what the water wind and ice powers do, but it feels like there one more but i can't place it.” I said shrugging some.
“They come out, and when they do you can call on me to help,” said Jaylyn with a smile.
“Sure will Jaylyn,” I said winking at her, and then we parted ways parted ways. 

Sara's Tale by Ste McLaglen

Sara leant forward in her seat, her face inches from the windscreen as she struggled to see the road. The wipers were working overtime to clear the snow, but it was no good - she still couldn't see more than a few feet ahead. It had been a hard day at work, and the journey home wasn't any easier.

Misty’s Odd Day – part 4 – Lillian Morpork

As she moved away from Mary Poppins, the fog closed in again, thick, yellow and acrid. Soon she was no longer walking, but rising and moving forward. In a short time, she was back in the clean, fresh mist, and moving fairly quickly. She concentrated on landing in Oz, where she could see all of the characters she had read about in the L. Frank Baum Oz books.

"Fast As Fast Can Be" by Llola Lane Part 3

"Fast As Fast Can Be" by Llola Lane Part 3

The jackalope just laughed... "Fast as fast can be, you'll never catch me!" And ran back into the woods.

Rosalie's Adventures in the Clouds - Part 3 - by Sven Pertelson

…“I'm not sure I can be described as a traveller. I do not know how I arrived here and have no way, I know of, to return to my own time. Perhaps I might better be described as being marooned in time.” . With this a tear formed in her eye and rolled down her cheek. The academic retrieved a smart clean handkerchief from the top pocket of his boating blazer and offered it to Rosalie.

"Fast As Fast Can Be" by Llola Lane Part 2

"Fast As Fast Can Be" by Llola Lane Part 2

The Jackalope laughed and yelled... "Fast as fast can be... you'll never catch me!" And was off to find a new hiding spot.

Misty’s Odd Day – part 3 – Lillian Morpork

Misty’s Odd Day – part 3 – Lillian Morpork

Misty floated along, wondering where she would end up this time. She knew she should be deciding to go home, but this had all been so exciting, she had met some really nice people, and she hadn’t had to listen to the constant carping and bickering. ‘I think I’ll just go to wherever the umbrella takes me, and see what happens.’ she thought. She drifted along contentedly, thoughts drifting too, not going anywhere.

"Life with Ash" by SerenityTaylor

"Life with Ash" by SerenityTaylor

Shadows, fog, and rain of ash
Dirt and dust, volcanoes path
See the sun, the light far off

"Sail my seas, my Sailor" by Keyah Kyomoon

"Sail my seas, my Sailor" by Keyah Kyomoon


Sail my seas, my Sailor,
Plumb my uncharted depths.

"The Jackalope Wind" by Keyah Kyomoon

"The Jackalope Wind" by Keyah Kyomoon

Does the Wind
Still wynd and whistle

Misty’s Odd Day – part 2 – Lillian Morpork

Once again, things got foggy, and the fog thickened. Soon, Misty had her umbrella up again as the air became more saturated. She walked along cautiously, remembering that sudden drop off that landed her in Wonderland, and how good the umbrella had been as a parachute. The fog had become so thick she couldn’t see more than a foot ahead, though occasionally it thinned a bit and she could make out dim shapes, like trees, to one side.

Rosalie's Adventures in the Clouds - Part 2 - by Sven Pertelson

Rosalie clung tightly to her uncle's umbrella. She was falling! The mist surrounding her streamed past and the wind whistled in her ears. Suddenly the mist lightened and she emerged into bright sunlight.

"Fast As Fast Can Be" by Llola Lane Part 1

"Fast As Fast Can Be" by Llola Lane Part 1

He saw the girl looking at him. He knew exactly what she wanted. He could tell by the look on her face. She wanted... HIM! Well he wasn't gonna let her catch him, that was for sure.

Misty’s Odd Day – part 1 - Lillian Morpork

Misty walked through the soft drizzle, wishing she didn’t have to go home. She’d slipped out without her mother noticing, to escape the constant carping and bickering. It went on day in and day out. It started in the morning with Mom and Dad, went on through the day with Mom carping at everybody, Dad and the boys bickering with one another. Even Grandma and Grandpa got into it when they came to visit. Misty was so sick of it, she just wished she could be anywhere else; someplace where people got along peacefully. Even Wonderland or Oz would be better than home.

Rosalie's Adventures in the Clouds - Part 1 - by Sven Pertelson

Rosalie Alice Pleasance St.Clair Appleton hated her first name, and was not too keen on some of her other names.. She really wished people would just call her Alice like her great-great-grandmother.

"Lonely Little Jackalope" by Llola Lane

"Lonely Little Jackalope" by Llola Lane

Lonely little jackalope
sitting in the sand
There's no need to be afraid
I've come to lend a hand.

"The Bunny" by Sparrow McLaglen

"The Bunny" by Sparrow McLaglen

Stephanie awoke with a shiver as the coolness of the misty morning crept into her body. The house was eerily still and quiet. She quietly slipped from her bed and put on her jacket and boots. Grabbing the umbrella from the corner stand she stepped out into the cool morning. Everything looked dreary to her, the colors so vibrant in late spring now cast ghostly shadows in the cool morning. The sun had yet to make an appearance, she hoped it would cheer up the day. She walked alone the ground crunchy beneath her feet. As she walked the events of the past week came to haunt her thoughts. A lone bunny hopped across her path, it turned as if to say something. It sat still watching her as she slowly approached. the crunching of the ground echoing through the silence.

Your inspiration for April 2014

From the series 'Fencing in Beauty' by Sonoma Sandalwood

Vespa Ride - part 5 – Lillian Morpork

Benny pulled up in front of 53 Barker Ave., the home of Constable Ralph Gifford. They stood for a moment looking up at the house, dark and silent in sleep. Then Lexi shrugged a bit and moved forward.

"The Road to Heaven - Part 3" by Llola Lane

"The Road to Heaven - Part 3" by Llola Lane (inspired by our local metropark event... ROAD TO FREEDOM (http://www.metroparks.cc/index.php)

The man starts to yell at us. He says he is a bounty hunter and he thinks we is runaway slaves. He says he will turns us in for the bounty. We is all scared and afraid. He grabs my arm and tells me I will fetch a good sum. My mans tries to help but the bounty hunter hits him and he falls to the ground. I crys for my man. We is not sure what to expect next. None of us can fight a gun.

Vespa Ride - Part 4- by lillian Morpork

As he rode Lexi’s thoughts were on what Airmid had said about his problems. He had already come to terms with his name, realising that it had been a silly thing to be upset about all those years. But the arson and the murder, he still couldn’t see how they connected, yet he felt sure she was right. As he rode into the city, he glanced at his watch. Seven twenty; ok, the dayshift would still be on, he’d go to headquarters and talk to Benny, who was leader on the arson case. Maybe if they went through everything together, they’d find the clue.

"The Road to Heaven - Part 2" by Llola Lane

"The Road to Heaven - Part 2" by Llola Lane (inspired by our local metropark event... ROAD TO FREEDOM (http://www.metroparks.cc/index.php)

Wade in the water
Wade in the water, children,
Wade in the water
God's a-going to trouble the water.

Vespa Ride - Part 3 - by lillian Morpork

With a shriek of anger that sounded almost like desperation, Morigan grew bigger and stronger. She got her hands around his throat and dug her fingers in. He was soon struggling to breathe, grabbing at her fingers, trying to loosen them. Things started to go dark, when again there was a rush of warmth and he could breathe. He let his body go limp, as if he were dying, and sagged toward the ground. Morigan laughed triumphantly, and then, arm drawn back to the limit, fist clenched, he swung the arm up and hit her jaw. Her hands relaxed and she slumped to the ground, unconscious.

"The Road to Heaven - Part 1" by Llola Lane

"The Road to Heaven - Part 1" by Llola Lane (inspired by our local metropark event... ROAD TO FREEDOM (http://www.metroparks.cc/index.php)

I tells ya right off... I is a Slave... but some day I be free!!!

Fenced – continued… Hopefia Fayray

…It was then that Naya strolled past, her arms full of books, scrunching up her mouth and scratching her neck as she saw him slumped by the fence, holding his head and groaning.

Fenced - by Hopefia Fayray

Feeling his cheek scrunched up against the juniors’ boundary fence, the weight of Jake’s considerable size bearing down on him, was not a new experience for Archie. In fact, happening in increasingly regularity (always out of sight of the Midday Supervisors) Jake’s demands had upped the stake; he was now asking for Archie’s lunch money as well as break snacks. Faking a stomach ache or fever held little weight with his grandma Lilly, who, having already raised three boys of her own, could spot an attack of ‘school phobia’ from 20 paces! Nope, here he was again.

EV2 - part 2 - by Sven Pertelson

As he got back to his 4x4 John pulled out his smartphone, no signal. That was to be expected he was a long way from the nearest settlement. Back in 1989 cell phones were still confined to city areas and mostly were attached to cars as the batteries were too big to fit in a pocket. When he had first come up to Alaska the main means of mobile communication had been CB radios. There had been a few briefcase sized satellite phones, mainly used by big business. Well things had moved on, out of his other coat pocket he pulled his latest 'toy', as Martha called it, a Spot Global Phone.

"Trees" by Llola Lane

"Trees" by Llola Lane

Trees trees everywhere I see trees
There are short trees and tall trees
Fat trees and small trees
Young trees and old trees
Green trees and gold trees

Vespa ride - Part 2 - Lillian Morpork

Vespa ride - Part 2 - Lillian Morpork

As he plodded slowly along, Lexi became angry, and grumbled and mumbled to himself. ‘Who do they think they are, trying to take me over, body and soul? No one has the right to do that. Are they aliens, gathering a mass of slaves, one by one, to take over Earth? They can’t do that to me!’ As he walked, his mumbling became louder until he suddenly stopped, straightened, tilted his head back and shouted “No! You cannot! I am a free man; no one is allowed to take possession of my mind! I will fight you to my last breath! “

"Children of the Sea" by Marita Decosta

"Children of the Sea" by Marita Decosta

Little Billy was born on an island, a small island. So he was surrounded by the sea, but not just any sea. Little Billy learned that most of the world was water, some places called seas, some oceans, some lakes and ponds, and puddles, and there where rivers and streams. As he grew older he realized that he did indeed live surrounded by a very special sea called the Caribbean.

Vespa ride - Part 1 - Lillian morpork

Alexander (AKA Lexi) James David George Fraser turned off the country road into the old, overgrown logging road. He was unhappy about a lot of things. For one thing, his name; his parents were big on English and Scottish men who explored Canada in the 1700s and gave him the names of the four they liked best. Then there was his fiancé, who had decided that their honeymoon absolutely had to be a trip covering all of Canada, and that in a three week period. Impossible! But he couldn’t get her to see it. And just yesterday afternoon, his boss had given him an extra assignment on top of the one that was already taking up nine hours a day six days a week. He was exhausted, fed up, and ready to get good and lost for a year or two.

EV2 - part 1 - by Sven Pertelson

The brown and white emulsion of oil and sea water swirled round the rock pool. Out to sea the slick stretched for as far as he could see. The very sight of it made him feel sick. He had stood on this same spot exactly 25 years earlier and wept as the oil from the Exxon Valdez had come ashore to ruin this pristine shore. Now it was happening again.

"A Beauty to Behold" by Llola Lane

"A Beauty to Behold" by Llola Lane

A beauty to behold
a wonderous sight to be seen
wether far away or up close
or dirt or clean.

Fragile Part Five by Raphaela Palmer

Fragile Part Five by Raphaela Palmer

The brightly coloured balloon shifted slightly as the wind rushed past it. Ymara checked that the mooring was secure and turned to smile at a worried looking Raneld. “It will be alright Raneld; the balloon is sturdy if a little cramped for three, but I don't think that will matter on such a short journey.” Ymara paused as a thought struck her “Are we facing the island or did we have to turn the balloon around because of the wind?” “We're facing it and the wind is directly behind us. I know you've done this before but please be careful”.

Your inspiration for March 2014

Your inspiration for March 2014

Runaway Balloon - part 4 - Lillian Morpork

The blizzard blew on, fiercer and fiercer, the winds gaining strength as time went by. Larry checked his weather station the second day of the storm and said the winds were gusting at over 80 miles per hour. And still the storm raged. All they could do was wait it out, and Margadele worried about her friends and family. The radio interference was still strong, so no word could be sent or received.

"A Balloon Adventure" Part 4 by Llola Lane

"A Balloon Adventure" Part 4 by Llola Lane

The next day Nick's balloon arrived from the states. He and Henri filled both balloons with air and Nick showed Henri how to work the controls. They took a whole day to fill but by dusk the balloons were ready to fly. Abella and I watched as the clouds grew in the distance. We told the men to wait until the storm passed but Henri was anxious to fly. Reluctantly the four of us headed up into the heavens for a "quick" ride.

Runaway Balloon - part 3 - Lillian Morpork

Runaway Balloon - part 3 - Lillian Morpork

Margadele looked around in surprise, as she thanked Martha for the hospitality. “I most truly thank you for being so willing to let me stay.” She swayed a little. “Sorry, I think I’m still getting used to having my feet on something solid and stable.” She put a hand to her head, and let the bag she was carrying drop to the floor.

"A Balloon Adventure" Part 3 by Llola Lane

"A Balloon Adventure" Part 3 by Llola Lane

We talked about... everything... from the weather to religion to politics. He was quite a knowledgeable gentleman. He had been all over the world with his balloon. He told me of a trip he was making to Provence, France next month. He made it sound so exciting. I didn't want the night to end.

Runaway Balloon - part 2 - Lillian Morpork

Margadele came awake with a jerk, grabbing for something to hold on to. The basket was whipping around wildly, throwing her from side to side. She managed to grab the bar holding the compass in place, and carefully climbed to her feet. The sky was full of clouds rushing away overhead, and it was very much colder. She glanced at the compass and saw that she was headed almost due north. ‘Good heavens,’ she thought. ‘At this rate I’ll end up somewhere in the Northwest Territories!’

"A Balloon Adventure" Part 2 by Llola Lane

"A Balloon Adventure" Part 2 by Llola Lane

We rose slowly at first then gained more height as we lifted over the other balloons. We paid for a half hour flight. Just long enough to grab some great pictures. Abbe was interested in all the balloons, where as I was more interested in the pilot, Nick. We chatted the whole half hour and I made sure I even got a few pictures in my camera. It didn't matter... Abbe and I always shared our pictures anyway. She took one of me and Nick, and he took a few of us two girls. He made us promise to send him copies and gave us his e-mail address after he landed the balloon. We were safe on the ground and I breathed a sigh of relief.

Muddy Elaina - by Maria Decosta

My name, is Maria Andres. This is a name that I have chosen for myself, not the one that was chosen for me at my birth. The day I was born my name was chosen by tradition. Being the first born in my fathers new family I was to be named after him, as he was after his father. It was a proud name, one born by kings and conquerors, poets and presidents. I did my best to live up to and honor it, which for the most part I succeeded, but as the years turned to decades, and the miles stretched to leagues, I was to discover it was not who I truly was.

Runaway Balloon – part 1 - Lillian Morpork

“Oh, Noooooooo!” Margadele screamed. “Help, John, Dave, grab the ropes!”

Even as she shouted, the ground was rapidly growing farther away. She could see them, alerted by her shouts, running to grab the ropes, while Marybeth jumped up and down and shouted “Hurry, hurry, it’s getting away!” But it was all to no avail. When Mike and Will were arguing, it had accelerated into a physical battle, and they let go of the ropes. As soon as they did, the balloon gave a jump and was on its way, soaring upward, with Margadele as sole passenger .A very unhappy one.

"A Balloon Adventure" Part 1 by Llola Lane

"A Balloon Adventure" Part 1 by Llola Lane

"Would you like to ride in my beautiful balloon," he asked?

Lavender Morning - by Sven Pertelson

The scent of the lavender fields below rose in the morning air to surround the basket of the hot air balloon as it floated silently above the Provence countryside. The colours of the fields, the sky and the balloon itself were overpowering his senses. This he must remember so he could paint it.

"Sailing" by Teri Meridian

"Sailing" by Teri Meridian

The waves are long and rolling, perhaps 8 meters apart and 1 meter high. The ocean is deep here, so they flow easily, without cresting or white caps. They are perfect for my Nacra as it is small enough to go over them, rather than the jarring ride of cutting through them with its hulls. The twin hulls are rigged wide, giving me a large stable platform that allows me to take the waves at an angle as I tack on a northerly course. The mainsail is taut in the wind, which I estimate is averaging about 15 knots. The jib is set a bit loose and is luffing slightly after a recent wind shift, but I’m not racing so I let it flutter lightly. I will be tacking in but a minute and will need to adjust it momentarily.

"Magnum Opus" by Teri Meridian

"Magnum Opus" by Teri Meridian

Inspiration from September 2010

Tonight was going to be the night. Sitting here, at my desk, I was going to finally write something that would put me on the map, so to speak, as a serious writer. My desk lamp now has a new “Natural Radiance” light bulb, which produces light of the same colour temperature as the sun – natural, warm, and soothing, according to the propaganda on the box. My faux leather chair has been adjusted to position me at the best height for writing, my feet flat on the floor, and my back fully supported. I’ve duct-taped a pillow to the back rest where I needed a little extra lumbar support.

Your Inspiration for January 2014

Kitty Cat - by Marita Decosta

Blackness, pure unadulterated blackness surrounded her consciousness. Soft tendrils of sentience manifested unbidden and probed at the blackness. It was not cold or vacuous, but thick and warm and all encompassing and she knew this was exactly where she should be, at the very core of her being. A wordless soundless sensation rippled through the thickening blackness, “Yes this is where I need to be”.

" Belle-n-Boots " by Llola Lane PART 4

" Belle-n-Boots " by Llola Lane PART 4

Belle nodded her head in agreement and hoped that once the Queens family was back to normal the story would end and Boots would be back to normal too. She had a fondness for the cat. She and the Queen sat under the apple tree til daybreak and worked on a plan to get things back to normal.

My Name Is… - part4 – Lillian Morpork

My Name Is… - part4 – Lillian Morpork



“Ma’am, Sir, dinner will be served in half an hour. Would sir like to come with me now? I have found suitable clothing for him; I thought he might like to dress for dinner.”

" Belle-n-Boots " by Llola Lane PART 3

" Belle-n-Boots " by Llola Lane PART 3

Belle agreed to help him and proceeded to read Boots the story from the book...

My Name Is ….. – part 3 by Lillian Morpork

Inigo had a hard time keeping calm, he wanted to jump up and declare his name, and shout a challenge To Count Rugen, but he did not dare. Not until he was released from the spell could he say anything. He hoped his Bella Donna, Simone, hadn’t noticed his reaction to that hated name. He took a deep breath and looked ahead. There was he home, a beautiful mansion, built of field stone with fancy stonework around doors, windows and in a line marking the level of the second floor.

My Name Is… part 2 – Lillian Morpork

Inigo walked out of the library with the beautiful young woman, wondering just what was going to happen. Would she be able to help him break the spell that had turned into a cat? He was hopeful, and as usual, the strains of Gustav Holtz’s “The Planets” sounded in his head.

" Belle-n-Boots " by Llola Lane PART 2

" Belle-n-Boots " by Llola Lane PART 2

Belle sat on the edge of the pile of books and Boots sat next to her. She listened as he told his story...

Blonde Girl in a Summer Dress by AliceMay Graves

“Did you ask for permission to take that book? This is a very important archive you know, we have procedures to follow!” said Puss-in-Boots, brandishing his tiny sabre in the direction of the tall blonde girl in a summer dress.

" Belle-n-Boots " by Llola Lane PART 1

" Belle-n-Boots " by Llola Lane PART 1

"En-guard," said the cat to the lady. "Give me the book or your life you will forfit."

Cold Fury.- by Sven Pertelson

The relief convoy will be reaching me at the Antarctic Astronomical Observatory, here at Dome C, in mid March when the six month long day ends and the six month long night begins. That means I have almost three months to plan my revenge on the swine that made a fool out of me.

"My Name Is…" Part 1 – Lillian Morpork

"My Name Is…" Part 1 – Lillian Morpork

There was a stirring behind the pile of books on the library table, and slowly a well-dressed cat appeared. His head turned as he looked around looking for the source of the enticing aroma that had disturbed him. It had come on an almost imperceptible breeze; and the odor of a combination of Lily of the Valley and Viburnum teased his nose. Then he saw her. She was tall, slender, and shapely, with hair the shade of honey butter and periwinkle blue eyes, and he was smitten.