Vcs

Absofreakinglutely! Next installment: Sunday

“Dr. MacLarroy’s office. This is Shayna speaking; how may I help you?” “Good morning, Shayna. This is Jake over at Two Spirits Horse Ranch; Dr. MacLarroy said to call this morning. We have a young man here…” “Oh, my goodness, Jake, I’m so sorry to hear about the awful goings on at the ranch. How’s the patient doing?” “He had one heck of a rough night and isn’t conscious yet, but he’s still breathing. Dr. Mac said we should bring him in for X-rays, bloodwork, and whatever else he n

Funny, Rick was so eager, yet his reaction, though not unexpected, seemed to surprise him.

The River Ran Backwards starts off referencing events in 1812, which this reader had never heard of; that immediately drew attention. It’s such gems that add enticing elements to stories. Moving on, intellectually gifted teen River is introduced, and his struggles are revealed. This is a story that speaks to events common in our time, providing yet another example of how others’ behavior can affect a student. In a moment of great need, he meets someone unexpected “on the banks of the Mississippi River.” One person might not be able to change the world, but can they change the trajectory of one life?

I’ve only to imagine the drain left by writing such a moving piece. Reading your stories, I was hooked after the first one. I hope someday you’ll find the time and inspiration to return to writing and publishing on GA. You have an incredible gift.

Thought-provoking and filled with angst, courage, and unexpected strength. The secret of the old man’s regrets served as a gut punch. The unexpected revelation sat tight in my chest. How unfortunate he didn’t know. Would it have mattered and changed how younger Max felt and his outcome? Leaving those thoughts to the readers was a decision that could leave some raw and questioning. Coming from similar experiences, it doesn’t feel like it. Everyone is different, though. Still tight, trying to catch a breath. Stunning and moving piece. It saddens me to see no further publications.

Max Cauler is a stunningly moving “snapshot in time” of the costs of brutality in the home and the aftermath. A secret long hidden unexpectedly comes to light. Would it have made any difference if shared sooner? There’s no way of knowing. With new discoveries, can other broken bonds be mended? Read along to come to your own conclusion.

Jeremy is an adorable trickster pulling his bestie Sam into his various pranks. Halloween makes a great opportunity for both tricks and treats. How will Sam react, though, to what Jeremy has “all planned out” for the rest of the night after they’ve partied with friends?

Jeremy, what a little trickster, fooling Sam like that. Absolutely delightful!

David is a beautifully told story of one man’s search for his typical fare, only to find something unique and never sought by him, uncovering a need he never realized he had. What can a man freshly turned 40 find so surprising?

The Difference Between Me and Me is a sweet little short about teenage boy Sam as he begins to discover things within himself. Specifically, his feelings. What will happen? Will he face and explore this new discovery, or will he run?

Been there, done that, so I hope this wasn’t the result of recent work efforts. It’s horrifying when it happens, and the sting lingers, but the comedic tone of reactions is almost a relief, knowing others have been through the same.

Handsome piece of equipment, it seemed to fit the scenario.

Thank you, @VBlew, nirvana completely escaped my thoughts, but yes, spot on.

Thank you, @sandeman there is indeed much ahead to learn with twists, turns, and perhaps a few surprises. Thank you for joining us here.