Story: 365
Words: 46

Title: Synthia Begins a New Era

Synthia rose early, that is she turned her attention outward, and went to the server farm in the Marsport cloud center. Her masquerade worked and garnered her access to citytrans01 that controlled all transport. She rebooted it with her own program that initiated rescue plan one.

Comment: I thought it fitting to end with a story about Synthia, the synthetic female since I will be writing about her in 2011. It’s a teaser about the trouble that Synthia and Slug Johnson get into and what comes of it.

It has been both a challenge and a pleasure to take on this project and it has given me a renewed interest in writing. So, thanks for reading and watch for developing short stories about Synthia and another about the Spewt, both stories about consciousness. Here’s the link to the blog “Stories of Consciousness”:

http://storiesofconsciousness.blogspot.com/

Story: 364
Words: 72

Title: Anxious Lover

She leaned over and gave him a kiss. His lips stiffened against hers as he enjoyed the surprise. They pulled away and then resumed the kiss, their lips a bit apart. He tried an exploratory tongue, but she broke the kiss and looked into his eyes. He could feel his face flushing, his heartbeat increasing. His hand moved to her leg and she turned looking away from him. The lesson was clear.

Comment: Wow! Next to last story. Hard to believe it’s been a year.

Story: 363
Words: 54

Title: Ancient Symbols

The choir was singing one of those old hymns that I remembered from my childhood. I looked around the sanctuary at the symbols of ancient Christianity and wondered how they were preserved and came to be here on this lifeless moon. I suppose they bring comfort to some, but I find them oddly disquieting.

Story: 362
Words: 44

Title: Buying Love

He took her to the best restaurants in town, lavished her with flowers, bought her expensive jewelry. But she remained out of reach, a porcelain doll dressed in haute couture. So he looked to another and left her weeping, wondering where she went wrong.

Story: 361
Words: 27

Title: Passion

The moons rose tonight in synchronization, just five seconds apart. Earth is a long way off but I hunger more for the mysterious. My passion, my love.

Story: 360
Words: 33

Title: The Museum

In the twenty-seven years she had lived in the city she had never been to the museum. She passed it every day on the way to work and just imagined what was inside.

Story: 359
Words: 47

Title: The Apron

She looked somehow regal in her white apron moving about the kitchen humming some song I’d never heard. The smile on her face told of many hours creating gastronomic wonders for us to enjoy. The apron hangs on the wall now telling her stories around the table.

Story: 358
Words: 35

Title: Indulgence is Trouble

Trouble seemed to follow him even when he was happy. Take the other day when he was drinking a chocolate malt and suffered brain freeze. He dropped to the floor screaming. What good is indulgence?

Story: 357
Words: 89

Title: Long Walk to the Moon

He walked along the plowed road that had snow piled on either side. His feet were getting cold in his wingtips. Probably not a good idea to walk to the garage, he thought as he pulled his jacket higher up his neck. The tire had blown out without warning, stranding him. The cold found his knees and it became difficult to walk. He shook it off, finding strength in his determination. The moon was visible through the barren trees and it called to him with its beckoning, silver light.

Story: 356
Words: 46

Title: Found and Lost

Extended virtual pleasure became the goal of many in the more advanced countries of Earth. They spent most of their time hooked up to the EVPnet and only ventured out to eat and defecate. After the electrical grid collapse, they became the nation of the lost.

Story: 355
Words: 12

Title: Civil War

Hold the lines! Man the canons! Courage, men! The rest is history.

Story: 354
Words: 79

Title: Going Interdimensional

It’s a strange feeling going interdimensional. I never get accustomed to it. First the feeling of blacking out, then the sense of having no body, and then the floating in the void. Suddenly, normal body sensations return and its been but a quarter of a second. During the experience of the void I get the distinct feeling that I could hop off and stay there. Perhaps next time I will see what’s there. But how would I get back?

Story: 353
Words: 92

Title: CopBot

CopBot wandered through the crowded esplanade at Marsport City watching for trouble. And there was always trouble on the frontier. With its armored skin, it had handily beat the controversy about it shooting indiscriminately because it could be programmed to shoot second. Untiringly, it wanders around randomly issuing salutations and weather reports. A distraction from its inherent firepower and unblinking digital eye.

CopBot was pleased to be of service and enjoyed the solid surface beneath its tracks. With constant enthusiasm, it serves and protects humanity. It’s the very definition of singular purpose.

Story: 352
Words: 15

Title: Bliss

The snow blowing over the drifts, the fireplace, and you in my arms. Blissful peace.

Story: 351
Words: 72

Title: Seclusion

Twenty-seven days in the wilderness can make one either long for civilization or give it up entirely. I wanted both so I built a house fifty miles from any city in the middle of the forest. Not wanting to give up civilization, I created a cyber-city of computers connected to the Internet. Now I have both and I don’t need or want to greet people in the flesh. Let the seclusion begin.

Story: 350
Words: 48

Title: Maybe Too Late

Not much time left to get the book finished and out to print. Then I am off to Leningrad to freeze my ass off. Conference on world chaotic weather systems should be intriguing and shed some light on global warming. Hard to understand why we waited so long.

Story: 349
Words: 41

Title: Victim

The dream started out dark and formless. She felt the pull of it demanding obedience. Slipping into its submission, she let herself go, finding a strange pleasure in its perversion. She awoke that morning with lingering guilt and again the victim.

Story: 348
Words: 54

Title: Introspection

It was the last day of her life as she looked out over the city from the roof of her building. She looked back on her life as if watching a film about someone else. Looking over the edge of the building, she understood her journey. It was the first day of her life.

Story: 347
Words: 98

Title: The Fixer

Flight status, acceptable. Nearing Outer Comet Watch Sentinel. Preparing for rendezvous. Testing repair systems and external arms. My mission is heroic: find the Sentinel and affect repairs. Earth inhabitants will be pleased to know that the Sentinel has been restored and once more watching for errant comets undetectable from their world. I make contact with Sentinel intelligence. It is very much like my own. It updates me on its history of malfunctions. I prepare the necessary components for replacement. Soon it will be over and I will have fulfilled my mission. Then to sleep. Will I reawaken someday?

Story: 346
Words: 68

Title: Days End Libation

He pulled up a bar stool and ordered a Stella. Not the taste he wanted. He wanted a good, dark ale. He quaffed down the Stella and ordered a Newcastle. Better, still not it. After finishing most of that, he ordered a Dogfish Head 120
IPA. The best ever. Lots of bitter and a clean, robust finish. Great way to end a day and prepare for the freeway.

Story: 345
Words: 90

Title: Fixed Gaze

It was Gene’s birthday at the Black Mushroom and I sat across from Mory. I looked at his nose and there on the end was a glistening globe of snot. As he moved his head it jerked from one side to another but never dripped off. I looked away and started a conversation with Frank who was next to Mory. Do you think I could stop looking at the snot ball? No way, my eyes kept coming back to it. I stopped looking when it finally dropped onto his carrots.

Story: 344
Words: 87

Title: Bear

The forest was quiet. So quiet that I could hear the wind caressing the leaves. The snap of the twig under my foot made me stop instantly and look around. The bear cub looked right at me as if to say, “Come play.” I took a cautionary step backward, looking for the mother but she was frighteningly not within site. I continued my backward journey until I felt something hard on my back. I stopped as fear took me over and turned to face but a tree.

Story: 343
Words: 31

Title: Starlight

A Noetic moment is always an enjoyable surprise. This time it knocked me over with its subtle simplicity. How was I to know that starlight brought messages to all Earth life.

Story: 342
Words: 21

Title: Mocha Latte

It’s perfect. Just what I wanted. A mocha latte. Slurping the frothy goodness to get to the black nectar. Heaven be.

Story: 341
Words: 31

Title: Perfect Match

We sit, sipping coffee, venturing shy glances at one another. She asks if I like chocolate. I say yes. I ask if she likes football. She says she was a cheerleader.

Story: 340
Words: 73

Title: To Die For

To die for, but not literally, or so I thought. Last I saw of him was a murky shadow crossing a dark street up Maple Avenue. Then the awful thud and something flying through the air into the park. I turned and went home. The outcome was in fate’s hands besides. What’s to die for, anyway? Money, a broad, save a dog? Whatever. Not worth being stupid, if you know what I mean.

Comment: Only 25 stories left. Anyone want to suggest some titles? I will fashion a story around it.

Story: 339
Words: 76

Title: Short Story

When you take everything into consideration, I guess it was a good thing. Didn’t seem that way at first. That son of a bitch just took it away. Now what was I supposed to do without a car. Learned to ride that mother fuchin’ bus, that’s what I did. Had time to think on that piece of shit. Decided to make some changes. Got straight, took my job serious, and bought me another car. Story end.

Story: 338
Words: 27

Title: The Long Ride

The long ride; warm breeze blowing; mellow music on the radio; your hand on my leg; thoughts of the motel room ahead; you asleep next to me.

Story: 337
Words: 41

Title: Flabbergast

I love the word flabbergast. It feels so delicious on the tongue. Try it, let it roll around in your mouth a few times. And you must say it out loud to get the full effect. What a truly savory experience.

Story: 336
Words: 16

Title: Who’s Talking Now

Reaching for the can of peaches, I brushed the hot tea kettle. “Ouch,” it said apologetically.
________________________________________

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Story: 335
Words: 79

Title: Galactic Peace

We stood against the railing of the promenade watching the delegations from the Many Worlds greeting the station captain on the deck below. It wasn’t just protocol. The captain had forged peace out of the diverse and resolute positions of all the known post-warp civilizations in the galaxy. They meet here on Peace2 every 5 Earth years to caucus and refine their many and varied relationships. Today the torch passes to a new captain and inaugurates many new opportunities.

Story: 334
Words: 61

Title: What If?

What if everything is truly alive? What if rocks just think very, very slow? And bees are totally single minded? What if horses want to win race? What if atoms have consciousness? And quarks as questions about purpose? What if trees touched each others roots and laughed? And water was the universal solvent? What if humans could truly love one another?

Story: 333
Words: 82

Title: The Impulse Buy

I reached for the iPad, took it off the shelf, and walked to the cashier. Soon it was mine and I had had no control whether I would buy it or not. This is beyond impulse buying. It goes right into a real sickness about compulsion; a real live neurosis.

At home, I unpacked the thing, staring at it. I hate computers. What will I use this techno-rock for? I’ll sell it on eBay. Or I could just return it. Too embarrassing.

Story: 332
Words: 70

Title: Mars Gliding

I waited for the sun to initiate a new sol on Mars and could feel the glider begin to tremble like an animal that was born to fly. The thermal tides continued building in the thin atmosphere and the glider was catapulted into its flight.

The thermals are easier to navigate than on Earth. It’s like they have emotion. The ride was like flowing silk on the verge of madness.

Story: 331
Words: 21

Title: Who Shot Liberty?

Total confusion. Only way to describe it. Why all the killing? Beliefs can run so damn deep. Peace out brother. Bang!

Story: 330
Words: 87

Title: The Drowning Dream

He felt himself falling deeper and deeper into the cold water. He tried to swim to the surface but couldn’t feel his arms to make them move. He desperately needed to breath but didn’t dare. He knew that breath would be his last. Everything became dark around him. Knowing it would mean his death, he gasped for air.

He heard his loud gasping sounds and realized he was alive. His sleeping bag was soaked and water was pouring into the tent. He gave a sigh of relief.

Story: 329
Words: 43

Title: Road Hazard

Twelve miles to go and I am so damn tired. Should have stopped long ago. Coffee has no affect anymore. Oops! Almost lost it. OK, window down, radio blaring, singing a song I have never heard. Or have I? Hummm, time… to… sleep.

Story: 328
Words: 75

Title: Mars Reflection

I had read about the Mars Rover Opportunity as a child, but it was completely different standing here in Eagle Crater looking at the tracks it had made in the Martian soil. The protected area is where the “blueberries” had first been discovered. Composed of hematite, they require water to form; the first real evidence suggesting that Mars once had lots of water. Now we live here and mine its rich bounty of valuable minerals.

Story: 327
Words: 46

Title: The Lantern

Let the lantern go, he shouted, it is only an object. It is better that you are alive and the lantern is broken.

The lantern fell to the ground and broke into many pieces.

Come, let me hold you, he said inviting her into his arms.

Story: 326
Words: 84

Title: Past Life Inheritance

Soon he would turn thirty-three. But why was the age of past life inheritance thirty-three? And why was the amount he would receive a secret? It could be nothing or it could be millions. There was no way to know how much money was deposited on his behalf upon his death in that previous life. Maybe that’s why the almost insane incentive to make it in this life and take the PLI as a gift—or not. Or maybe there was no past life.

Story: 325
Words: 85

Title: Stars in Two Skies

Evening twilight brings its magic to the mountains with a display of alpenglow. We take a short walk to lakeside and watch the few delightful moments of red orange glow. Soon it will be pitch dark and the stars will begin to take their place in the sky. High in the Sierra Nevada mountains the stars form a carpet of points of light that take us back to Mars and those rare times when the atmosphere is clear of dust and outdoes this earthly sky.

Story: 324
Words: 54

Title: Error of Correction

Lexi saw the bat flying against the twilight sky and ducked instinctively. Damn! she thought, why do I always duck? I’m not afraid of bats. She walked down the darkening path and saw something flying at her. She was determined not to duck this time. She awoke in the hospital with a bandaged head.

Story: 323
Date: October 28, 2010
Words: 77

Title: Memories of Earth

As he painted, the sun disappeared behind a distant ridge. It set just as fast as on Earth but it appeared smaller. Phobos rose quickly in the West and raced across the sky into the darkening night. He took a moment and imagined what it would be like if Earth’s moon moved that fast. It would be like some sort of weird acid-trip time speed up. He packed up to leave, sighed deeply, and thought of Earth.

________________________________________

Story: 322
Date: October 27, 2010
Words: 27

Title: Mars Landscape

The colors that best illustrate the Martian landscape are rust with a blue-grey atmosphere. He sat in the Obs1 deck and tried to get the oils right.

Comment: Catching up.

Story: 321
Words: 18

Title: Squirrel Trip

As the tree was falling he heard a high pitched scream. Looking up, he saw an elated squirrel.

Story: 320
Words: 17

Title: The Spider and the Rose

The spider crawled into the rose. The man cut the rose, took inside. Whole new spider universe.

Story: 319
Words: 35

Title: A Drop of Water

A drop of water fell onto his head. He looked up, expecting to blame something. There was only the night sky full of stars and the water a reminder of a storm that was gone.

Story: 318
Words: 54

Title: Steak No Matter What

You can’t get chicken here on Mars. It’s just way too costly to raise foul. There’s that fake stuff made from tofu and old cardboard that McDonalds sells. You have to put loads of mustard on it. But we do have real beef. Somehow our appetite for steak overcame the problems of raising cattle.

Story: 317
Words: 53

Title: Mars Revelation

From Marsport take the shuttle up to the Canals of Mars restaurant. The name harkens back to an Earth based time when only telescopes explored Mars. Take a leisurely dinner as the restaurant rotates, providing a spectacular view of this unique landscape. We will remind our children that often the inimitable becomes commonplace.

Story: 316
Words: 33

Title: The Suite

A cold wind blows and swirls over the dry Martian terrain. I can’t feel it inside this insulating, sealed suite. But if I could I would welcome its bracing aliveness and clean smell.

Story: 315
Words: 43

Title: McD and Me

McDonalds double cheeseburger mini meal. Brought it home to eat. Fries cold. Burger good. Tons of guilt. Could feel the saturated fat coating my arteries. Why do I do this? Took a long sip from the chocolate milk shake. Now all is well.

Story: 314
Words: 12

Title: The Prize

Guard the pumpkin! The prize is nearly ours. Look out behind you!

Story: 313
Words: 42

Title: Martian Maintenance Mission

It’s a long drive up to the sentinel. We bust along at about 5 kips, tops. The Martian dust makes a low cloud behind us. Ahead is the last grade to the top. The beacon has died again. No parts for months.

Story: 312
Date: October 17, 2010
Words: 25

Title: Mantis Waiting

The morning light cast long shadows across the meadow. Praying mantis caught the light energy and took her waiting pose, eyes scanning the waving grass.

________________________________________

Story: 311
Date: October 16, 2010
Words: 19

Title: First Rain

Rain. When will it start. Waiting for the first drops to quench the dry earth and clean the rocks.

Comment: Two for one again.

Story: 310
Words: 63

Title: Mars Surprise

The Marsport lab would have to wait. They took the rock to the research station Tharsis for a closer look. The intriguing feature of the rock was put under the scanner. Within seconds the picture took form. Yes, there could be no mistake. It was a small bone, possibly from the leg of a small creature. Mars had been inhabited before human colonization.

Story: 309
Words: 16

Title: The Rain

Walking in the rain, she discovered the hundred-dollar bill stuck inside her umbrella. Sweet, lucky rain.

Story: 308
Words: 25

Title: What You See…

Howard was afraid of just about everything, so when he was accused of murder it took everyone by surprise. The sociopath faked every evasive fear.

Story: 307
Words: 37

Title: Spider and Butterfly

Spider sits motionless on a flower, its multifaceted eyes watching the small butterfly land within jumping distance. Butterfly is easily five times its size. Spider waits and waits. Butterfly quickly flits away. Spider turns toward another butterfly.

Comment: I watched this event occur over and over in my flower garden. The spider usually just waited but when it did jump it missed the butterfly as if it would rather go hungry than take on such a large prey.

Story: 306
Words: 55

Title: The Snow

You look out the window and notice snow coming down. It reminds you of your childhood and being poor. You look away, feeling gratitude inside for the abundance you enjoy now. You think of sharing that wealth with others. A smile comes on your face as you get your coat and head out the door.

Story: 305
Words: 47

Title: Desert Moon

The first night wind blew through his hair causing him to open his eyes and look across the desert. The full moon made a silver landscape punctuated by gray ghosts of Joshua trees. He got on all fours and shifted into a wolf, running toward the moon.

Story: 304
Words: 92

Title: The Argentine Tango

When was the last time you danced the Argentine tango? You know, you went to a club, found a guy and danced your ass off. How long has it been? A year? A month? It’s just that I love that dance, to feel the rhythm of the music, the excitement of the beat. I’m not so weird, you know. Lot’s of ladies like tango—and that’s all, no sex afterward. Not even a drink or late supper. Tango takes you to the brink of excitement and then lets you graze on it.

Story: 303
Words: 47

Title: The Bouquet

Carnations, daisies, and a few sprigs of babies breath. That’s what was in the bouquet. It sat there on the hospital table, a sentinel of the world he was about to enter. I stared at it until everything else became a blur and my mind went blank.

Story: 302
Date: October 7, 2010
Words: 39

Title: Memories

Lunch at the corner deli was a wonderful, quiet affair. So many people to watch and no thoughts to worry about. Then he walked in and those old memories invaded her sanctuary. The mind can be a cruel mistress.

________________________________________

Story: 301
Date: October 6, 2010
Words: 63

Title: Twizzle’s Fear

Twizzle went home earlier than usual that night four years ago. No reason for it, just the way it worked out. The bomb went off just after he left. But this night Twizzle would stay longer and brave the fear. He started to sweat and felt the anxiety rising up his neck. Someone clapped at a joke and Twizzle fell to the floor.

Comment: Two for one. Forgot to write yesterday.

Story: 300
Words: 33

Title: The New World 2

The drift to the colony was short and uneventful. We disembarked after routine safety checks. NewGaia did not smell like Earth, it smelled much better. It is the intoxicating aroma of unbounded opportunity.

Story: 299
Words: 91

Title: The New World

To say the we are excited would be the greatest understatement of the century. The interstellar class ship Carl Sagan is in orbit around an earthlike planet we decided to call, NewGaia. Our first mission will be to obtain more data on the proposed landing site to determine its suitability for our colony.

But now I am simply looking at this magnificent planet and thinking about establishing a new human colony in a solar system so far from our birth world. That responsibility is humbling but we ready for the challenge.

Story: 298
Date: October 3, 2010
Words: 31

Title: The Paper Fan

It was there on the floor, precisely folded, torn by awful anger. A Japanese paper fan with a picture of a beautiful women in a kimono. And her next to it.

____________________________________________________


Story: 297
Date: October 2, 2010
Words: 45

Title: Broken Promises

You said you would always have my back. You told me you would always love me. Why did you tell her about the dog? It was here only hold on reality. How was I to know the dog was allergic to chocolate? I hate you.

Comment: Two for one since I missed yesterday.

Story: 296
Words: 52

Title: The Scream

The scream was hard to miss. Its sound reverberated off the walls and landed everywhere. Screams dig deep into the psyche and stiffen fingers and toes. I jumped up and turned in its direction. She had just one a quarter million on the double diamond slot machine. I pulled the handle again.

Story: 295
Words: 12

Title: Volcano

The volcano was sacred. It blew its top. Now what to believe?

Story: 294
Words: 62

Title: First Kiss

“Did you know that milkshakes were originally shaken? And that they contained alcohol?” he asked across the table.
“Really?” she replied.
“Yeah,” he said. He looked into her eyes and his mind was on anything but milkshakes. He took her hand in his. She leaned forward and they had their first kiss.
“And they were advertised as a ‘wholesome’ food,” he said licking his lips.

Story: 293
Words: 28

Title: The Challenge

The heat was like a thousand hot pokers searing my flesh. The broken shade of a single ocotillo became my savior. I challenged the arrogant sun and won.

Story: 292
Words: 75

Title: The Ultimate Addiction

How interesting, I thought, to have a body and a mind. How fun to feel the Earth under my feet. How challenging to think about my relationship to this mind and body. A world of duality wrapped up in a mind-body that I created for my own enjoyment. Turns out there are no limits to this adventure. I can create a unique reality. But who would have known that it would become so completely addictive.

Story: 291
Words: 52

Title: Roswell, NM

It was past three in the morning. We were camping in the desert outside Roswell. You guessed it, there was a bright light in the sky. But don’t get excited. It was just an Air Force helicopter checking us out. There for a minute I thought we would be taken. No luck.

Story: 290
Words: 17

Title: The Fog

The fog was so thick you could drink it. He got drunk on its cold, grassy taste.

Story: 289
Words: 24

Title: Death

She asked her dad, “Will you die? Will I die?”
“Everyone dies someday,” he said.
And so the belief in death’s inevitability is reinforced.

Story: 288
Words: 97

Title: The Crutch

The first thing you saw when you walked into Mike’s house was a crutch hanging on the wall. When asked, he was proud to tell its story:
“One day I was huntin’ the ridge. I came upon a place where I could sit and watch the stream below for deer to come drink. Well, I dowsed off. All of a sudden there was this bang! and I jolted up. I fell off that ridge and broke my leg. That taught me to keep the safety on when I was sleepin’. And so the reminder on the wall”

Story: 287
Words: 76

Title: The Wave

He knew what a parade was and loved to go to them. This time he was more determined than ever. He could see the floats go buy and began to plot a path through the forest of legs in front of him. There it was, the perfect route. He saw the right float coming and made tracks through the forest and in an instant was at the curb waving to the clown. And he waved back!

Story: 286
Words: 80

Title: The Diversion

The ship came close enough to Jupiter to feel the pull of the gas giant. We had experienced this phenomenon enough times to feel it ourselves. There was a challenge this time to see who could feel it first. With a $1000 buy in the bet was very popular. Pete had created a short routine to monitor the room sounds, detect the first yelp, and check the angular momentum of the ship. Long voyages require clever diversions to remain sane.

Story: 285
Words: 56

Title: Moon’s Secret

Luna Base 8 has a wonderful view port where you can watch Earthrise. The room is small and intimate. Better it can be reserved for a private party. We sat watching Earth crest the horizon. I thought that Earthlings have no idea how great sex can be in one-fifth gravity. It’s a secret we natives keep.

Story: 284
Words: 75

Title: Russian Woman

The Russian woman stood by the fence staring into the vacant lot. She was dressed like I would imagine a typical peasant woman would dress like, but what do I know. I wonder what she is looking at as she stands motionless. Perhaps she is reminiscing about her mother country and the poverty she faced. Or maybe she is happy to be in the United States, the vacant lot merely a mantra for her reverie.

Story: 283
Words: 79

Title: Sweet Sugar

Sweet Sugar took the stage and started playing their brand of all original ballad rock. In the last row of the audience sat a lady of middle age. Her eyes began to well up with tears as she remembered holding that bass player as a baby.
“The bass player, that’s my son,” she whispered to the man next to her who nodded acknowledgment.
She remembered holding him gently after he was born and the angst of letting him go.

Story: 282
Words: 24

Title: Enthusiasm

Lovely flowers, Gene.
Yeah, just love to grow them.
They could make anyone feel good.
Probably.
Oh, come on, show some enthusiasm.
I am.

Story: 281
Words: 64

Title: Too Good to be True

Bright Velvet came in dead last. They looked at each other with that surprise that made unbelievable a good thing. They found each others hand and walked away, not aware of their feet or where they were going.
“How could we have been so stupid?” he said out loud.
“It’s that asshole Sid’s fault,” she said passing blame.
They found their car and left.

Story: 280
Words: 11

Title: Surprise

Desiree watched as he slowly undressed before her.
“Oh,” she exclaimed.

Story: 279
Words: 20

Title: The Moon

The moon had just appeared over the horizon as they went their separate ways. A reflection of things to come.

Story: 278
Words: 63

Title: Intravel 7

He had the information he needed. The Perseus was destroyed by people who did not want the alien craft debris recovered. Sometimes no information is all the information that is needed.

He closed his human eyes and fell back through the fog into interdimensional space. He found himself with his fellow angels and made a report to Gabriel. Something had invaded their universe.

Story: 277
Words: 88

Title: Intravel 6

He thought this sounded like a cover up. How else could one explain it?

“Monitor, what are chances that the Sentry malfunctioned and the anomaly was covered up?” he asked.

“Near zero,” Monitor repeated.

“Monitor, what are chances that the Sentry fired on command?” he asked.

“One moment, please,” Monitor politely said.

He speculated that this was not an accident and when the Perseus came to scavenge the remains, it too was destroyed.

Monitor was ready, “Chances are approximately 82 percent that this incident was not an accident.”

Story: 276
Words: 70

Title: Intravel 5

Monitor had some data, “The answer to your question is there are no references to a trawler named Perseus.”

He was stunned and asked, “Any reference to a trawler by any name on such a mission?”

“No, but there is reference to a sentry ship that malfunctioned and began firing on ships indiscriminately,” Monitor added.

“I thought the sentries had a zero failure rate?”, he said.

“Near zero,” said Monitor.

Story: 275
Words: 38

Title: Intravel 4

During Monitor’s silence, he closed his eyes and let the energy of the Center take him to his TrueSelf. There he found solace and the strength to continue his search. Coming back into body was becoming much easier.

Story: 274
Words: 96

Title: Intravel 3

Galactic Headquarters held the information he needed. All he need do was go into an access rooms and ask Monitor. The Monitors guarded the information and parsed out only what was needed. He entered the room.

“Monitor. I come in peace. I need information about the space trawler Perseus. It was on a mission to recover debris from a mysterious craft that was destroyed by an automated sentry ship,” the man said.

Monitor looked at him with artificial eyes that somehow communicated understanding. “I will do my best. Please be patient,” Monitor said and was silent.

Story: 273
Words: 49

Title: Intravel 2

He found himself looking at the Galactic Headquarters building through the fog of arrival which allowed him to accept his destination without being detected. He confirmed his acceptance and dropped out near a huge tree unseen by others. He walked to the building and entered. This was too easy.

Story: 272
Words: 56

Title: Intravel

Wrapped up in an energy field was the least of his worries. Where he was going was a bit troubling. But that is the way of interdimensional travel. You set an intent and go where the energy takes you. Hopefully, this journey would be as informative as the rest and provide more information about his mission.

Story: 271
Words: 70

Title: The Parking Lot Gull

They were playing that game with the parking lot gulls where you throw food into the air and watch them snatch it before it hits the ground. Turns out this was not a good idea. Notice how a gull looks at you next time you see one. They look psychotic. Ready to take you out at any moment. But the man had trouble seeing the gull with his one eye.

Story: 270
Words: 21

Title: Bread

The bread was rising on the counter as he walked out the door. Soon he would lovingly kneed it into loaves.

Story: 269
Words: 93

Title: The Enigma

It was early morning as the sun silently climbed over the distant mountains with a promise of another hot day. Jesus was walking along the river contemplating how to talk to his disciples about what he knew in his heart was a truth they would find difficult to accept. He needed them to stop protecting him from the Romans. Perhaps a talk with Judas, he thought. Judas was friends with the Romans and could easily divulge his whereabouts. Jesus was uncertain and walked in silence until he was sure of his next action.

Story: 268
Words: 25

Title: Crust

Crust. I hate crust. It makes such horrid sounds in my mouth. Cut it off. Leave the sweet, soft bread to breath on its own.

Story: 267
Words: 51

Title: Under the Counter

Little Charlie stared at the dark under the counter. He knew there was something dreadful there waiting to bite his toes if he got too close.
“Are you staring under the counter again? There’s just dust there,” his mom said.
“I know, Mommy. But the dust is bleeding,” Little Charlie said.

Story: 266
Words: 84

Title: The Lost Day

“What day is it?” he asked, looking for a calendar.
“It’s Wednesday,” she answered.
“No, the date,” he said with a touch of anger.
“August 29th,” she responded.
“And the year?” he asked, irritated.
“What? 2010,” she answered wondering why he would ask for the year.
“I’ve lost yesterday,” he said. The thought of a lost day was almost too much.
“It’s gone,” he said. “I’ve lost our wedding day.”
“Do you remember last night,” she asked.
His chin dropped dejectedly to his chest.

Story: 265
Words: 72

Title: The Church Choir

The music got louder as he approached. The church choir was singing what must have been, if he understood it right, a hymn. He listened carefully to the classical form of the music. It had no particular meaning to him. He was accustomed to hearing a rhythmic sound that reflected the tempo of the earth; the sound of an intelligent mother guiding her progeny. He walked, his feet mindfully touching the ground.

Story: 264
Words: 87

Title: Maybe

What do you want to do?
I don’t know. How about a movie?
Do you mean go to a movie or watch one here?
Watch one here.
Come over here and huggle.
Maybe.
Want me to massage your back?
Maybe.
It’s easier if you take your shirt off.
Maybe.
That’s better. How does that feel?
Relaxing.
How about I massage your legs?
Maybe.
It’s easier if you take your pants off.
Maybe.
How does that feel?
Fantastic. Now I want to massage you all over.
OK, maybe.

Story: 263
Words: 35

Title: The Party

Everything was set. It was perfect. All details taken care of. This would be the best ever. Friends would talk about it for months. Oh, my god. Oh my god. I forgot to send invitations!

Story: 262
Words: 62

Title: Reading tea leaves

The room was dark except for a table light. She watched as the young girl walked in and sat down. The tea was brewed and sipped. The remaining tea was poured out leaving the tea leaves.
“The leaves tell me you want to know the truth,” she said.
“Yes, always,” was the reply.
There was silence as she made up a story.

Story: 261
Words: 28

Title: 1:00 A.M.

It was 1:00 a.m. and he lay in bed, thinking about tomorrow. How would his life change? He heard him whimper, feet thrashing. Tears moistened his eyes .

Story: 260
Words: 95

Title: Ultra Violet

Violet was reflecting that she had been bowling for nearly 30 years as she approached the lane. She let that and all other thoughts go as she focused completely on the pins at the other end of the alley. She let the ball swing back and then drove it forward as she stepped toward the foul line, adding just the right amount of spin. She watched the ball curve toward the sweet spot and then saw the pins scatter. Strike! It was her 100th strike in a row and gained her the title “Ultra Violet.”

Story: 259
Words: 40

Title: Cold Air

He sat, enduring the cold air blowing from the air conditioning duct. He couldn’t or wouldn’t move to another chair. Suddenly, he stood up, took off his jacket and sat back down. He closed his eyes against the cold air.

Story: 258
Words: 30

Title: Freeway

Merging onto the freeway, I wonder what the guy I pull in back of is thinking. Then I notice the guy behind me and I know what he is thinking.

Story: 257
Words: 15

Title: Church

“The right hand of God…” he awoke, chin on chest, trying to look so cool.

Story: 256
Words: 11

Title: The Remote

Who the hell stole the remote. Crunch! I hate that sound.

Story: 255
Words: 66

Title: The Broken Window

They had arrived home from dinner and a much earned evening to recharge from the chores of parenthood. Their fourteen year old son had been watching the two younger siblings and everyone was in bed asleep. They went into their bedroom to continue the evening and immediately noticed the broken window. Fear caught them breathless.
“Mom, sorry about the window,” their son’s voice dispelled the dread.

Story: 254
Words: 42

Title: The Broken Crayon

He was cleaning under the bed when he found the broken crayon. He held it gently in his hands and began to think of his son. Tears came spontaneously as he pictured him lying in the hospital bed fighting for his life.

Story: 253
Words: 93

Title: A Matter of Semantics

It was simply a matter of semantics that brought them inexorably together. They had been talking about the brain and he had said, “The brain is the center of the mind.”
She had thought for a moment and countered, “But the brain doesn’t think, the mind does.”
“Hmm, then where is the center of the mind?” he asked.
“Silly, it doesn’t have a center,” she said.
They looked deeply into each other’s eyes, kissed, and made passionate love. One could say that semantics had become the center of their very long, loving relationship.

Story: 252
Words: 40

Title: The Doorbell

The sound of the doorbell produced wide eyed fear as she crouched alone near the window. She peaked over the sill. It was just her neighbor. She went to the door.
“Hi, Jill,” she said. Thank God it wasn’t him.

Story: 251
Words: 66

Title: Too Loud

The constant booming, the relentless thundering that shook the very earth, made the rat very afraid. It huddled in its nest of paper, leaves and bits of old shirts. Its eyes stared into the dark as one relentless crash after another bombarded its world. Its long tail flicked nervously.
Above ground the revelers swayed to and fro their fists pumping to the sound of Black Sabbath.

Story: 250
Words: 78

Title: The Fly Without Food

They watched the fly that was caught between two windows. It buzzed frantically, not understanding that it couldn’t get through the glass. It had no concept of transparency.
“Just kill it,” she said flapping her hands as if to make it go away.
“It’ll die in a couple of days without food,” he said watching it buzz ever louder.
“It’s torture,” she said and then screamed, “Kill it, please!”
He looked at her quizzically and let it go.

Story: 248
Date: August 14, 2010
Words: 11

Title: Trees

Walking and the trees are alive greeting me with deep energy.
_______________________________________

Story: 249
Date: August 15, 2010
Words: 60

Title: The Waterfall

He listened to the sound of the waterfall as it cascaded over the verdant cliffs. He was transported to another place in space/time where he met a master.
“What does the sound of the waterfall mean,” he asked.
“It is the sound of your own being, beating in the heart of the Earth,” the master replied.
Silence filled that being.

Story: 247
Words: 66

Title: The Open Door

“Have you looked down the hall?” she asked.
“What do you mean?” she questioned.
“I mean, well, the last door down the hall is always open,” she said, peeking out her open door.
The other looked around the door jam and said, “Oh, yeah, it’s open.”
“Nobody ever comes in or out,” she said and looked the other way down the hall expecting to see someone.

Story: 246
Words: 29

Title: The Handshake

Slug Johnson approached the new fuel super and extended his hand. The super wrapped his suction cups around Slug’s wrist and closed his eyes. Slug winced at the intimacy.

Story: 245
Words: 43

Title: Nightfall

Nightfall brought Phobos into view, racing across the Martian sky, and the plodding Deimos rising in the East. Slug Johnson was watching through the Marsport skyview window dreaming of piloting the Kröger on a sling to Titan and enjoying the excitement and anticipation.

Story: 244
Date: August 10, 2010
Words: 17

Title: Green Fruit

Green blueberries taste horrible, but the taste of green papaya, now that’s something to look forward to.

Comment: Two days today since I missed yesterday.

--------------------------------------

Story: 243
Date: August 9, 2010
Words: 94

Title: Diary Entry 167

Dear diary, she started and then thought, how long has that phrase been around? OK then, dear journal or whatever.

She wrote: Today (Saturday) started out with a beautiful blue sky with lots of those puffy white clouds. The kind of day that brings on feelings of hope and wonder. God, that sounds so hokey. But it really did. Bob suggested going on a picnic down by River Bend park, one of my favorite places in the whole world. The leaf creatures came to visit us. How rare and wonderful to receiver their blessing.

Story: 242
Words: 38

Title: The Stress Reducer

I opened a can of Bud Lite and sat back to watch the sunset, letting the stress of the day go into the sound of the surf. The cold beer and the tranquil tropics combined in perfect union.

Story: 241
Words: 90

Title: The Haircut

Since he was not a Hasidic Jew, Isaiah went to the local barber to get a haircut. He sat down and removed his yamaka, reminding himself that it symbolized the humbling relationship between man and God.
“Trim it up, I need to look good tonight,” he said.
“Going to the theatre?” the barber asked.
“No, having dinner with the enemy,” he said.
The barber was confused and asked, “The enemy?”
“Yes, he belongs to Hamas,” he said uneasily and then, “He killed my brother.”
The barber was consumed with silence.

Story: 240
Words: 58

Title: The Mink Coat

They where living in a homeless shelter when their son became ill. She let her cyber friends know through a succession of graphic emails detailing his struggle and their faith that he would survive. Somehow their courage emerged dominant. He died despite their hopes and they buried him in a mink coat that was their most cherished possession.

Comment: This is based on a true story.

Story: 239
Words: 25

Title: Nothing

How do I get out of here? I see only black. I feel nothing. It’s like walking on air. Am I dead? Alive? Hello! Nothing.

Story: 238
Words: 40

Title: The Tunnel

The train was making that characteristic click-clack sound as it entered the long tunnel. Then nothing. The sound stopped, the lights went out, and there was no sense of motion. Fear replaced it all. A fear that denoted the worst.

Story: 237
Words: 42

Title: Dinner for Two

“How is the tuna?” she asked, not really caring about the tuna but trying to get a conversation going.
“OK,” she responded, not really wanting to engage in conversation.
“My chicken is divine,” she said mocking an old movie star.
“Greta Garbo?”

Story: 236
Words: 87

Title: The Storm

It was a long walk up the trail to the top of the mountain. From there he could see a squall line about a mile away. It had been hidden from his view and was heading for him. At this elevation these squalls can suddenly develop into fierce storms that can blow you right off the mountain. He looked for shelter and saw a rock overhang just large enough. As he approached he heard a low growl. The ferocious storm blew him over like a paper bag.

Story: 235
Words: 81

Title: Ink

Twice, no maybe three or four times, she had gone to the tattoo parlor to look at designs. She so wanted a tattoo on her right ankle. Most of her friends had one, but she was having trouble getting to the decision point.
“I really like this one,” she said to the tattoo artist.
“That’s a really cool one. And I can do that deep red on the rose peddles no problem,” he said.
“OK. I will call you,” she said.

Story: 234
Words: 69

Title: The End

It started with an earthquake. Not a really big one but a good shake nonetheless. He walked outside after the earth stopped moving. What caught his eye first was the bright orange glow over the horizon. Then came another big shake, this time accompanied by a delayed rumbling and a huge column of fire. He could see the pyroclastic flow coming at him and knew it was the end.

Story: 233
Words: 52

Title: Mint Julep

It goes without saying that a good looking business man visiting Atlanta would be able to find a knockout southern belle for dinner and drinks.
“Mint julep?”
She handed him one and sat down next to him.
“Love to,” he said watching her eyes checking him out, her hand caressing his leg.

Story: 232
Words: 28

Title: Hurricane

Twelve o’clock and nothing happening. He expected at least a strong wind after the tornado warning sounded. A loud rumble changed his disillusionment as he ran for cover.

Story: 231
Words: 25

Title: Whale Listening

The whale heard the subsonic sounds and knew they were not whale talk. He turned around and wondered what nonsense humanity was up to now.

Story: 230
Words: 61

Title: Bogie on Titan

The scientific research ship, Jingling, was in stationary orbit around Titan. They were using multiple-frequency, remote sensing equipment to plot the methane seas to a depth of 1200 meters. Jean was watching the monitor as the images were coming in. At 560 meters she could clearly see a mass moving slowly upstream.

“Sid,” she yelled, “we’ve got a bogie at 560!”

Story: 229
Words: 93

Title: Synthia and Mitochondria

Synthia knew the quantum machine she needed. It must interface with the mitochondria of Slug’s wetnet-in fact, with his whole biological system. She know that mitochondria were the answer. It had been discovered that they have a structure that interfaces at the quantum level with an interdimensional plane that was outside of ordinary experience. If she could communicate with the plane then she might be able to instruct Slug’s mitochondria to enhance his native ability to pilot the Kröger. But she did have mitochondria in her systems. She would have to invent them.

Story: 228
Words: 74

Title: The Solution

The last words he heard before going unconscious were, “What’s his name?”
“Phil,” came the answer.
“Phil, follow the light. It will lead you to a solution. Listen closely.”
He followed the light and listened closely. Sure enough, there was a solution.
She called his name once more, “Phil, open your eyes.”
He opened his eyes and looked deeply into her eyes for a long time. The silence was beautiful.
“Marry me,” he said.

Story: 227
Words: 68

Title: Encounter and Destiny

He had been walking for a few hours through the trees when he came to a large clearing. He walked to the center of it and turned around in a circle, taking in the energy. Suddenly his mind when quiet and he heard in his head, “I am the Archangel Michael.”

He was stunned by the power of the voice. He had been chosen at last. It begins.

Story: 226
Words: 15

Title: Fear in the Night

Keep the defensive fire burning. Listen for animals sounds. Hold the stick tight. Fight sleep.

Story: 225
Words: 25

Title: Speed Kills

The car blew by him like he was standing still. He watched in horror as it careened up the steep embankment and out of site.

Story: 224
Words: 45

Title: Progress

Twilight brought out the crazies. It was not a time to be outside, believe me. We evolved the strategy of moving into the inner areas of the building where we could set out a defensible space. Life like this really sucks. So much for progress.

Story: 223
Words: 80

Title: Synthia and the Quantum State

Back on the Kröger, Synthia was reviewing her research on quantum effects. She had determined that in order to interface with Slug’s wetnet she would have to do it at a quantum level. Since it had been discovered that superposition, that unintuitive state where matter is in two states simultaneously, could resolve into one state or the other, and that consciousness toggled it, she knew that a quantum machine was the answer. But how to adapt technology to build it.

Story: 222
Words: 79

Title: Cat

He watched the cat walk by him without a sound. She jumped onto the window sill with so little effort that it astounded him even though he had seen the feat many times. He thought that it was like cats have this secret agreement with the earth that they can ignore gravity. That they are privileged in some way and he wanted that freedom to decide which physical laws to ignore. He sighed, his bones creaking as he rose.

Story: 221
Words: 13

Title: Connection

The wind blew sand in their eyes. They held hands and kept walking.

Story: 220
Words: 75

Title: Saturn Pioneer 2

The bright side of Saturn presented its bands of clouds and cast a black shadow on its rings. If she watched carefully she thought she could see the rings change as they orbited the planet. They were studying resonance patterns in the rings that tricked the eye into seeing luminous events that weren’t there. As a child, she would have called them fairies. She let her mind wander in that magical realm, indulging great joy.

Story: 219
Words: 42

Title: Saturn Pioneer

She floated to the observation deck and locked-in to one of the seats. The research satellite Saturn Pioneer had been in orbit for several years. As chief scientist she loved her duties but never got tired of just looking at its rings.

Story: 218
Words: 50

Title: Reflection

It was mid-morning, he was walking downtown and noticed two guys he had seen before hanging out on the corner. Seemed like they were always just hanging around. He thought to himself, what the hell is wrong with those two? Can’t they find a job? Then he noticed himself walking.

Story: 217
Words: 26

Title: Hands

His hand took hers in a way that said I’m your foundation. She felt another contraction and squeezed his hand glad he would always be there.

Story: 216
Words: 23

Title: New Life

They looked at their new baby. She was sleeping soundly, a smile just visible. They had no idea how their life would change.

Story: 215
Words: 70

Title: Desert Sunset

It was hot. Very hot. He took the last few steps to the mine, walked in, and turned around to look at the sizzling desert. Dust devils were forming as the sun ended its travels across the sky and it created red and orange mirages out to the horizon. He sat down and took a long drink of water. He could feel the cool behind him. It invited him in.

Story: 214
Words: 60

Title: A Marsport History Lesson

That the Rover Monument could lead to androids was a marvel of nano-technology and rapid advances in artificial intelligence that were driven by profit motive and entrepreneurial opportunities. Mars became the new frontier. Not only for its mineral riches but as a launching pad for the exploration of the solar system. Humans had joined androids in the quest for knowledge.

Story: 212
Date: July 9, 2010
Words: 86

Title: The Rover Monument

One of the few times that Synthia left the Kröger, she and Slug took a shuttle from Marsport to the NASA Rover Spirit Monument. Slug reflected in silence remembering the story about how the twin rovers began the colonization of Mars. How a succession of remotely controlled vehicles led to the discovery of water and a fortune in minerals. Then came the businesses to support the mining and Marsport became a city. Soon this led to the development of androids and the beginning of Synthia’s lineage.

Comment: Oops! Missed a day, so here are two stories.

Story: 213
Date: July 10, 2010
Words: 38

Title: Synthia Reflects on the Rover Monument

Synthia watched Slug and knew by his body language that he was emotionally engaged with the Rover Monument. She felt an indefinable connection to the machine with its solar panels, spiral wheels, lack of intelligence and primitive abilities.

Story: 211
Words: 33

Title: Redemption

He appreciated being included in the dinner but knew that his ex-boss would be there. Here was another opportunity for redemption-on the boss’ part that is. Maybe understanding would come someday-or maybe not.

Story: 210
Words: 36

Title: Love Found

Where is love hiding?
Is it behind a tree,
Hidden in my mind,
Lost in a book,
High in the sky,
Intertwined with passion,
In the lush jungle?
No, it’s everywhere.
I’m just blind to it.

Comment: Being a poet at heart, I must give in to my muse and write a poem. Yet, within this little poem one can find plot, characters, conflict and resolution. Interesting.

Story: 209
Words: 58

Title: War and Peace

Eight men broke ranks with the 2nd Cavalry and headed up the Delaware into Lenni Lenape territory. The captain had sent them to the Lenape for food and supplies. They were exhausted after several demanding campaigns against the Confederate and happy to be away from the fighting. The Lenape welcomed them and their peaceful ways won them over.

Story: 208
Words: 15

Title: Nine Lives

Jinx walked onto the road. The car sped toward him.
“Jinx,” he heard and turned.

Story: 207
Words: 53

Title: Peace

The fireworks shot stars and comets into the sky with thundering ovation. I watched and reflected on how they reminded me of war and killing. Then I got it. Humans are warring creatures. As I was leaving, I noticed a child reach out and hug a soldier. So that’s how peace will come.

Story: 206
Words: 67

Title: In a Funk

Diana Krall is singing Cry Me a River. I have a glass of 18 year old Glenfiddich in my hand that I have been nursing for about twenty minutes. It’s the third scotch I have had this evening and I’m feeling lonely and disheartened since she left me for that bohemian sluggard. Oh, well may as well switch to beer, hip hop with Blowfly rapping Funk You.

Story: 205
Words: 14

Title: Dog Mystery

Seriously, Jean, what did you do with the dog?

What dog?

Oh, I forgot.

Story: 204
Words: 13

Title: Finders Keepers

Trash. Trash everywhere. Starting to clean. Could be money in with the trash.

Story: 203
Words: 58

Title: Katrina

The water was waist deep and getting deeper every minute. She looked at the ceiling, then the windows with the bars on the outside. The door was open enough for the water to flow in. She waded toward the door and pulled as hard as she could.

“Jean, are you in there?”

“Yes,” she screamed with profound relief.

Story: 202
Words: 69

Title: Mystery Surfer

Howard had broken his left foot. He wouldn’t tell anyone how it got broken. All we know is that it happened about three weeks ago when he was in Santa Cruz. We all figured he did it surfing since he was on the water more than land. But the mystery deepened when he said he also had sliced his upper arm. Howard kept the secret but never surfed again.

Story: 201
Words: 76

Title: The Merchant of Main Street

As he did each morning, the clothing merchant looked over the racks and tables of goods neatly stacked and hung. He smiled to himself. The screech of brakes was unmistakable. He jumped to the wall to avoid the car as it careened into the store sending shirts and pants everywhere. He slipped to the floor, staring at the mess and started to cry. Then he stood, shook the dust from his pants and began cleaning up.

Story: 200
Words: 66

Title: Dragon Fly

Dragon fly flew over the still surface of the pond. He watched his reflection in the water as it got larger and smaller. Suddenly he saw a very large reflection near his and made a sharp turn toward the reeds near the edge of the water. He flew into them and landed on stalk. His color blended in and he remained motionless for a long time.

Story: 199
Words: 46

Title: Bat and Moon

In the middle of the night, in the middle of the woods, bat flew among the trees in search of insects. The moon was full but suddenly it started to get darker and darker. Bat landed on a branch and enjoyed the total eclipse upside down.

Story: 198
Words: 87

Title: The Thief Negotiates for Help

Of course, how could he still be alive.

What do you want from me?

I want you to hack into Cybercity and remove the ban on my identity.

Is that all?

Yeah.

Nobody has succeeded in getting past the first two security levels-not even me.

So, you’re not up to the challenge?

Too much work for too little gain.

And how much gain would make it worth your time?

More than you have.

I'm a respected investor in the Cybercity underground. Start by checking out my rep.

Story: 197
Words: 82

Title: The Thief Seeks Help

If he had felt repentant that would be one thing, but he didn’t. He inquired around Luna Base Four until he found a bytehound; one of those rare, illusive genius’ that knew how to hack just about anything.

Can you hank into Cybercity?

Never tried. Too much work for too little gain. Besides, do you know who designed the security for it?

No.

None other than Stan Kubrick.

You mean the film director from last century?

No, he just took that name.

Story: 196
Words: 58

Title: Lament for a Thief

The end result was that he could never go back to Cybercity again. Once you were tagged as a virtual thief by the City, you were banned for life. The City would forever remember you-it was that smart. He walked to the transport for the last time, got a ticket to Luna Base Four, and boarded the shuttle.

Story: 195
Words: 74

Title: Synthia Considers the Wetnet

Wetnet. Synthia retrieved the info from the research that had been running in the unconscious part of her cyberbrain. Some attempts and lots of failures dominated the results. She would have to create it from scratch. There was, of course, no doubt or apprehension about achieving the desired result. For her it would either work or not work. She would simply begin with the outcome in mind. Synthia didn’t worry about what might be.

Story: 194
Words: 75

Title: Synthia Solves the Problem

Synthia began formulating what the interface would look like. The biggest problem was how to interface with a human nervous system—how to connect to a wet-net. She created a subprogram in her synthetic brain to research how to do this and returned to musing about what it would be like to enter into Slug’s wet-net; to see what the universe looked like through his perceptual apparatus. The symbiosis of the two would be unbeatable.

Story: 193
Words: 32

Title: Fairy Magic

Fairy looked out from under a fern and watched the children play. She wondered how she could bring magic to them. Suddenly, the air around them was full of bright, shimmering specs.

Story: 192
Words: 50

Title: Gilbert's Fantasy

Gilbert listened intently to the night sounds through the open window of his bedroom. He could hear cars and trucks; the wail of a siren; an occasional horn; and the wind that carried them. He imagined the driver of a car hearing the sirens and visualized himself behind the wheel.

Story: 191
Words: 79

Title: Nothing Happened

He took a sip of beer and put his glass down on the coaster thinking of the day and that nothing happened really, nothing at all. How could a whole day go by and nothing happen? He thought of the woman in the grocery store who had smiled at him and the dog that kept smelling his feet. Then there were the two pennies he found on the street. Nothing really had happened today so he took another sip.

Story: 190
Words: 75

Title: Rabbit

Rabbit peaked out through the grass, nose twitching, taking in the scents of morning. He poked his head out a bit further and scanned for shadows of hawk. Now his shoulders are out, his ears high, listening for fox. One hop and then another took him to fresh grass and breakfast. Suddenly, a shadow made him feel cold, he turned, ran back into the grass, his heart beating quickly. Rabbit peaked out at the cloud.

Story: 189
Words: 39

Title: Eavesdropping

George was in the dentist office waiting room listening to conversations.

“I’m new here, is he a good dentist?”
“I’ve been seeing him for 21 years.”
“Oh, good to know that.”

George wondered if anyone really answered questions anymore.

Story: 188
Words: 95

Title: Synthia Reflects About Piloting

Synthia had been piloting the Kröger long enough for Slug Johnson to gain the reputation of the best cargo pilot in Marsport. She felt a sense of pride in knowing the role she played in his triumph. She was constantly refining her skills and shaving seconds off the transit time of each sling. Each second helped solidify Slug’s reputation. But she knew that those seconds were coming less and less often and soon there would be no more improvement. Something needed to be done to keep his edge. In a flash she knew the answer.

Story: 187
Words: 14

Title: Casino

Pulling the handle at the casino. Waiting for fortune. Going to take a piss.

Story: 186
Words: 32

Title: Ingrid

Ingrid demonstrated the epitome of an unctuous sycophant. And that self-ingratiating smile made your skin crawl. Her obituary read like a pauper’s oath making one wonder what was behind her creepy demeanor.

Story: 185
Words: 21

Title: Morning Sun

Blue sky on a cool morning brings the full sun. I feel it on my skin against the chilly air. Nice.

Story: 184
Words: 22

Title: The Sound

The sound came at regular intervals. It was a hideous noise that chilled the bones. Fear was everywhere, driving us into chaos.

Story: 183
Words: 71

Title: The Road

The cool air coming through the window and the sound of traffic on the freeway reminded him of places and times past. It was like traveling down a road but the scenery was events in his life. He wondered among them, in control now, being able to select which ones he saw. He stops the motion, watches himself as a child playing and humming so purely. Where did that innocence go?

Story: 182
Words: 94

Title: Synthia Pilots the Cargo Ship

Synthia enjoyed the helm very much. Slug Johnson just sat in the seat next to her and smiled like it was the first time he had seen the rings of Saturn. He knew that each time she made the sling from Marsport, their transit time would decrease.

She felt the controls in her hands and the many computers that responded to her precise movements. It was as if her awareness extended into the ship’s circuitry and that the ship had awareness that extended into her. This was more than a partnership, it was symbiosis.

Story: 181
Words: 32

Title: Surprise

Really?
Yeah, I just heard about it.
How could that happen?
Don’t know, but there you have it.
I never saw that coming.
Me neither.
Twins!
Can you believe it?
Not really.

Story: 180
Words: 89

Title: Flower

The flower could not think,
At least in human terms,
But somehow, someway
In its chemical reactions
It could find the sun
And point to it.

Hydraulic-neuromatics
Working to cause movement;
Tracking the sun all day
To maximize its efficiency
And minimize its effort
To hold Earth energy.

And who is to say if the flower
Knows if the flower knows,
Or if the flower enjoys
Being the carrier of life
In its leaves, roots, and blooms.
To sense Earth’s communication.

It is one flower
It is one Earth.

Story: 179
Words: 91

Title: Slug Johnson 5

The next day brought a big haul back to Marsport. Slug rose to the annoying sound the ship made to awaken him. He made his way to the helm and greeted his copilot, “Morning Synth,” he said.

“Strictly speaking, Slug, morning and night have no meaning here but greetings anyway,” Synthia said, “The ship is ready when you are.”

Soon they were in transit with Synthia at the helm. Slug smiled, thinking about his ingenious technique of using an android as a pilot. Those cargo jockeys would never figure it out.

Story: 178
Words: 19

Title: Slug Johnson 4

He returned to his cargo ship and thought about his navigational secret and how to keep it that way.

Story: 177
Words: 62

Title: Slug Johnson 3

Imagine the sound of eight cargo jockeys getting pissed off. Slug just smiled, took his drink, and walked to a corner booth to join his friends.

They’ll never figure it out, said Slug, Never in a thousand Marsport loops.

His friends new better than to ask about his legendary accomplishments or even to discuss them. Maybe that’s why they remained his friends.

Story: 176
Words: 33

Title: Slug Johnson 2

In the bar on Sat12 several cargo jockeys were trying to ply the secret out of Slug but all he would say was, It’s so simple a frosh cadet could figure it out.

Story: 175
Words: 76

Title: Slug Johnson 1

Slug Johnson was known for one thing-he could make the sling from Marsport One to Sat12 around Io in less time than anyone. No one knew exactly how he managed that feat but some suspected that he had installed some kind of illegal proton booster to his ship and that he was using the minimum energy lanes rather than the standard cargo lanes. Problem was that he wasn’t. So nobody really knew how he accomplished it.

Story: 174
Words: 88

Title: Synthia Makes a Mistake

Synthia was helping set up for lunch. The lab was having a get together to celebrate her successes and give her experience with social niceties. Suddenly, there was a crash as Synthia knocked over a large pitcher of water. She stopped and stared at the shards of broken glass in the pool of water on the floor.

How could this have happened, she thought, my sense of where I am in relation to nearby objects is nearly perfect. Had she made a mistake? Could she make a mistake?

Story: 173
Words: 65

Title: Pain

He didn’t really feel pain, it was more like a burning sensation in his right leg. He started to run but instead his leg was not responding to the adrenaline and he collapsed, rolling down a hill. He stopped against a tree and scrambled behind a rock. He could hear the man at the top of the hill. He clenched his teeth against the pain.

Story: 172
Words: 59

Title: Dylan Thomas

It was the fifties and we were in the Village drinking cheap well drinks and listening to some lame ass bohemian reciting Ferlinghetti’s, Junkman's Obbligato accompanied by some jazz trio that really needed to take lessons. I leaned over to Jack and said, “Let’s split for White Horse.” We got there just as the ambulance was taking away Dylan.

Story: 171
Words: 11

Title: Close Call

The crow heard the cat’s claws as it quickly took flight.

Story: 170
Words: 45

Title: A Piece of Paper

The wind was whipping paper into the air. I watched as it glided randomly about in the shape of a perfect sail. Soon the paper landed in a bush and would never fly again. Life is like that, I thought, reeling in its sudden impact.

Story: 169
Words: 57

Title: Grasshopper

She watched the grasshopper as it gnawed on a leaf. It seemed so completely absorbed, so completely in the now, that she wondered if she was in the now watching the grasshopper.

Not if you are wondering if you are in the now, she realized.

She looked for the grasshopper, seeking an answer, but it had gone.

Story: 168
Words: 34

Title: Soup and Soul

How about a hot bowl of soup, I said thinking of the cool rain outside.
Sure, she said.
We ate our soup and talked about vacationing on the coast, our eyes holding intimate contact.

Story: 167
Words: 58

Title: The Rain

It is raining and I am reminded of when we took that long walk in the rain up in the mountains. We had stopped at the cabin to get dry and warm up. Soon we found ourselves making love for what seemed hours. Afterward, we sat by the fireplace wearing dry clothes and smiles that could never end.

Story: 166
Words: 66

Title: Synthia Begins to Feel

Synthia was reading a book when she thought that she could be ingesting a digital version in about 12 milliseconds. But she felt comfort in sitting with this book in her hands, reading and experiencing the story.

Comfort! She thought and searched memory for correlations. She found many references, but comfort still eluded her until she noticed something rising in her awareness. Something new and exciting.

Story: 165
Words: 60

Title: For Carolyn

Once, some years ago
I ventured into a field of wildflowers.
It was spring.

I watched as the flowers bloomed
And turned to seed.
It was summer.

The flowers faded
And fell to the ground.
It was fall.

The snow fell and
Covered the flowers.
It was winter.

The flowers awoke once more
And began to bloom.
It was spring.

Comment: Carolyn recently passed into another expression of time/space. Her earthly manifestation will be missed but her soul will be ever with us.

Story: 164
Words: 46

Title: Synthia and Information

Synthia was wondering if humans pictured the person on the other end of the telephone like she did: hi-res picture in full color; visualized from any direction; full history of contacts, etc. If they didn’t, how could they create a favorable conversation? File away for later.

Story: 163
Words: 53

Title: Synthia Makes a Phone Call

He sat there listening to the ringing in his ears when the telephone rang. For a moment he wasn’t sure he had really heard it ring.
Hello.
Hi, is this Pete?
Yes, who is this?
It’s Synthia.
Oh, hi, how is my favorite android today?
I’m fine. All systems functioning within normal parameters.

Story: 162
Words: 73

Title: Synthia Hears Her Body

Synthia was sitting in a chair listening to the sound of her servos making fine adjustments to her posture. She turned her head to the right and listened to their distinct sounds as she moved. Each motion created a well-defined sound and certain sequences of movements sounded like a melody or a rhythm. Her body awareness, much to her delight, was creating a beautiful symphony and only she could hear and appreciate it.

Story: 161
Words: 20

Title: Ripples

The clouds reflected in the blue water of the lake. I put my foot in and the ripples made sounds.

Story: 160
Words: 15

Title: Surprise

He threw a rock into the lake and was surprised by the lack of sound.

Story: 159
Words: 30

Title: Mocking Bird

Listen to the mocking bird sing.
Yeah, it’s the best background music there is.
It seems louder in the middle of the night.
I notice it more when it stops.

Story: 158
Words: 73

Title: Anamnesis

In things past as in things future, all is anamnesis.

In the church pew she thought, “The miracle of the resurrection is that we are unlimited in time and space. We move in and out of time and slip between the atoms to create our existence.
‘Do this in remembrance of me.’
But I have forgotten who I am. And now I wander the dusty lanes of quantum events seeking what I know.”

Story: 157
Words: 98

Title: Synthia Discovers the Garden Planet

Synthia was walking in the garden looking at the beauty all around her when she noticed John, one of the scientists who created her.
“This garden is so beautiful,” she said.
“Yes, I come here to walk and think,” John said.
“Earth should be called the garden planet. It is covered in green flora. Have you considered that if the sun had a spectrum richer in the greens, then the vegetation would most likely be blue instead of green?” she asked.
“Perhaps you would do better to pick a rose to enjoy rather than to analyze,” John said.

Story: 156
Words: 88

Title: One

The birds were singing the day into existence as the sun move up the sky drawing one to experience more. It was one of those wonderful spring days when one can appreciate the wonder of being alive.
“Did you notice the new pink rose?” asked one.
“Yes, it’s so delicate,” another one said.
“We should cut it and take it inside so we can enjoy it all day,” said one.
“No! We should let it be so it can enjoy the sun and the birds,” said another one.

Story: 155
Words: 38

Title: Broken Heart

How many roses does it take to heal a broken heart? A dozen, maybe two? No, it takes an open heart and an open mind to heal a broken heart. And definitely a large box of fabulous chocolates.

Story: 154
Words: 22

Title: Twizzle

“Twizzle,” she said as she noticed the dust on the bookshelves. So she scanned the titles and took one down to read.

Story: 153
Words: 15

Title: Life Goes On

He crossed me one too many times. Now I live without him. Life goes on.

Story: 152
Words: 23

Title: Mouse

Grass; hide in the grass. No shadows today. Run fast. Eat seeds. Stay in the tall grass. Listen for the sound of wings.

Story: 151
Words: 58

Title: The Bug

Bob felt the bug fall down the back of his shirt. His immediate panic went something like this: Is it poisonous? Will it bite me? Will I get Lyme disease? How do I kill it?

He backed against a wall and wiggled around until he felt a wet sensation on his back. Now I’ll never know, he thought.

Story: 150
Words: 96

Title: Synthia as Herself

Could this android really become human, pondered Dmitri, one of Synthia’s creators, or does she simply imitate humans? It was an old question and one that was argued at length during her design phase. But her recent behavior had Dmitri revisiting that sophistic debate.

Synthia, he asked, are you fundamentally different than humans?

There was that now typical android delay and then, of course, I am an android.

I know, but do you think of yourself as an android or a human?

I think of myself as myself, conscious of myself, and distinct from all else.

Story: 149
Words: 70

Title: Synthia Ponders Her Creation

Synthia looked at her reflection as only an android could. It had no particular meaning to her except that her face resembled that of a human. Rightfully so, she thought, since she had been created by them. Still, it was curious why they would do so. Of all the possibilities, did they choose to make her look human?

“Why did you create me to be just another human?” she asked.

Comment: Back to Synthia, the android. There are more Synthia stories in the archives for February.

Story: 148
Words: 51

Title: Rain Today

Today it was supposed to rain. Tomorrow partly cloudy. No rain today. What will tomorrow bring?
"Can you get the rest of the groceries from the car?"
"Sure."
She started putting the groceries away that she had brought in. Minutes passed. She went outside and found him lying on the ground.

Story: 147
Words: 16

Title: Times Square

Live, from Times Square, interview with meter maid. Did she ticket the Nissan Pathfinder? More later.

Story: 146
Words: 41

Title: Turnips

Lovely turnips you have there.
Yes, I grew them myself.
How much?
Today they are two bucks a bunch.
I’ll take a bunch.
Thanks.
You’re welcome. By the way, no one else is selling turnips.
I know, but I love turnips.

Story: 145
Words: 92

Title: The Siege of Acre

So many battles. So much death. So much suffering. But we owe our allegiance to the great Saladin. It has been months that we camp here west of Acre in siege of the city. There have been skirmishes against our flanks, but they have been unsuccessful.

The walls of Acre are beginning to break down as the trebuchet sends huge rocks against it. It is impossible to forget its sound as that immense catapult swishes through the air. They stand no chance and we will breach the walls and take the city.

Story: 144
Words: 88

Title: Communication

As he had done many times, he recorded the temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure in the chamber containing the experiment. He was wondering what the outcome might be when he suddenly wondered who was observing. He pondered the ontic/epistemic distinctions: what was there and what could be known about what was there.

He looked once more into the chamber and uncharacteristically became aware of its contents in what could only be described as an ontological experience. Separation disappeared, replaced by mind quieting communication, his scientific mind challenged forever.

Story: 143
Words: 91

Title: Beach

Their hands touched as they walked along Kauapea beach. The moon cast silver flashes of awareness on the sea as he took her hand in his.

They stopped, looking into the moon as she said, “This is perfect, here with you.”

He felt her arm tighten around his waist and faced her. Her eyes flickered from the reflected moonlight gifting her aspects of the divine feminine. Suddenly her spirit wrapped around him, enclosing him in her love.

“I love you,” was all he could find to say and that was enough.

Story: 142
Words: 38

Title: Attack

Activity just over the hill. Alert sent to soldiers. The rumble of many feet ensures a successful defense. Enemy engaged with much bravado. A head-on attack. The predator has been vanquished. Enjoying the strong smell of formic acid.

Story: 141
Words: 15

Title: Journey

Halleluiah, the photon fall has resumed and the flesh is ready for a new adventure.

Story: 140
Words: 43

Title: Dry Spell

It’s a dry spell for writing. I sit here and punch the keys watching meaningless drivel parade across my monitor. But, what can I do about it? Nothing, but go watch more meaningless drivel on the TV and wait for sleep to come.

Story: 139
Words: 86

Title: Night Scene

It was early evening as he walked along the city street taking in the sights and sounds.
Hay, she said from the steps of one of those great Victorians downtown.
Ah, hay, he said turning toward the voice.
What brings you out tonight?
The city. And you?
The people going by.
Yeah, it’s cool imagining them going to a club or maybe to dinner.
Or coming home late from work.
Want to go get a coffee?
Maybe a mocha.
And some chocolate.
It’s an awesome night, isn’t it?

Story: 138
Words: 39

Title: Vampire

The church was empty as I walked into the sanctuary. I noticed a beam of moon light coming through a window in the ceiling. I sat in a pew and closed my eyes, blood still dripping from my mouth.

Story: 137
Words: 20

Title: The Climb

He stood at the base of El Capitan looking straight up at that immense wall of granite. Courage came suddenly.

Story: 136
Words: 11

Title: Singing Birds

Singing birds must sing their song waiting for us to awake.

Story: 135
Words: 56

Title: Time Out of Time

Time.
What?
I said, time.
And?
Not enough of it-it just slips away.
What are you talking about.
Maybe it’s about getting older, but time is speeding up, don’t you think?
I hadn’t thought much about it, yeah, maybe some.
I feel desperate right now.
To get it all done before you die?
No, we’re damn out of beer!

Story: 134
Words: 32

Title: Journeys

Journeys to the far side of the Moon or to the great canyons of Mars are certainly awe inspiring. But how could they compare to journeys into the depths of consciousness itself?

Story: 133
Words: 38

Title: Absolution

The church was cool and damp the day I sat down in the pew to asked for absolution. A stranger sat next to me and said, “You can’t forgive what has not occurred.” I left, having found peace.

Comment: The quote refers to the perspective of A Course in Miracles about forgiveness. You can find it here.

Story: 132
Words: 56

Title: Self-Reflexive

I was talking to myself the other day when I heard that I am a very intelligent person. Nonplussed, I asked what evidence there was to support such a claim. The answer I heard was that it must be true because I came up with the clever assertion. Now, who am I to argue with myself.

Story: 131
Words: 46

Title: Absurdity

OK, OK, so how was I to know.
You should’ve suspected that something was wrong.
How, by the tone of his voice or his wiggling ears?
No, by the way he drank his beer with his right hand.
What?
He’s always held it in his left.

Story: 130
Words: 74

Title: Unusuals

One thing we know for sure-it was not an animal that clawed at their door last night. The claw marks were too high and too deep…

That’s how the local news started the story. It was all so much embellishment and sensationalism. We all know that vampires don’t claw at doors. So it must have been a Lycan or some other shape-shifting entity. Surprise, when “unusuals” walk the streets how can anything shock us?

Story: 129
Words: 56

Title: Casino

Spent a long day at the casino pulling handles and throwing dice. The free drinks keep me lubed but the free buffet wasn’t worth it. I dropped a couple of c-notes before long. The smoke was too much to take so I had to leave. I spent the rest of the day coughing up my losses.

Story: 128
Words: 21

Title: Unconversation

Pass the salt. Thanks.
She thinks of TV tonight.
He wonders about the meeting tomorrow.
Eating their words to avoid talking.

Story: 127
Words: 30

Title: Jungle Rules

Hypervigilance is the rule in the jungle. Anxiety offers a sense of being alive. The rule is eat or be eaten. The lion yawns in the shade of the tree.

Story: 126
Words: 28

Title: Realization

There is a fine line between logic and desire, I thought as I was making breakfast. Will it be bear claw or whole grain cereal? I stopped short.

Story: 125
Words: 62

Title: Alone

He woke hungry as he got up from last night’s bed in the alley, knees stiff, a bit dizzy. He gather the few belongs he still owned and walked to the street. People were already crowding the sidewalk as he started to play his harmonica. He watched a fiver land in his hat. Was that taste in his mouth wine or egg?

Story: 124
Words: 31

Title: Perspective

Traveling the local galaxy at about 0.8 the speed of light. Never get tired of watching the stars stream by. Like an ancient Earth airplane ride watching the cities go by.

Story: 123
Words: 13

Title: Madrid

Madrid. Warm summer nights. Calle Huertas. Music. Paella. Rioja. Flamenco. Romance. Morning. Headache.

Story: 122
Words: 20

Title: Cat?

He suspected something sinister but it was just the cat sneaking behind the couch. But he didn’t own a cat.

Story: 121
Words: 22

Title: Gibberish

Are we there yet?
No, not yet.
Are we there yet?
Yes.
We’re not there yet.
Then where are we?
We’re here.

Story: 120
Words: 11

Title: Snake

Rattle! Rattle! Snake in the grass. Man backs up. Smart man.

Comment: The smallest work count is eleven. Really tough to do a story in so few words-but fun.

Story: 119
Words: 26

Title: Trial by Water

Hold on!
The raft hit the water with a jaw shattering bang.
Then quiet. Drifting on the still water.
They looked at one another in disbelief.

Story: 118
Words: 51

Title: Reciprocation

He asked, Would you get me a glass of water while you’re up?
She answered, Sure.
She returned and snuggled into his shoulder to watch the TV.
The next day:
She asked, Can you bring in the clothes from the dryer?
He said, Right after this play.
She said, Pause it.

Story: 117
Words: 19

Title: Rain

Rain. It never stops. It beats on my skull and drums in my ears. I have folded into myself.

Story: 116
Words: 71

Title: Salvation

The Easter-egg-resurrection-bunny had come early to the Smyth household. When they had all converged in the kitchen they found a note on the table:

“Find all the eggs and you will be granted salvation.”

Not ones to let opportunity go by, they started the egg hunt. An hour later they had 13 eggs. But how many had been hidden?

Two weeks later the rotten egg smell dispelled any hope of salvation.

Story: 115
Words: 31

Title: Morning

The rays of the sun touched his face and warmed his body against the morning cold. He breathed deeply and returned to the tent into the welcoming arms of his love.

Story: 114
Words: 76

Title: April Fool

“What’s with the long face?” he asked.
“Just got fired,” was the reply.
He orders pizza and a pitcher and says, “Wow. That’s the pits.”
“Yeah, just when I was getting out of debt and stuff.”
“How long can you hold out?”
“A few months, not much more.”
The pizza and beer arrive and they eat and drink in silence.
“April fool!” he exclaims.
“That was yesterday,” he says.
“Yea, thanks for the beer and pizza.”

Story: 113
Words: 97

Title: Point of View

Jean,

Just got settled at the Holiday Inn Express in Cape Town and thought I would drop you an email. The Cape Doctor is blowing today, so the visibility is great. I can see Table Mountain which seems to isolate the city from the rest of the African continent. So far I can say this is not a town I would choose to visit. It has a bad vibe and the people speak this Afrikaans language which sounds weird.

What ever happened with that meth lab up the street from our house? Anybody get busted?

Love, John

Story: 112
Words: 26

Title: Storm Brewing

Waiting for the rain. No wind blowing right now. Quiet. Waiting. Anticipating. Perhaps the noise and downpour of the storm will trade peace for this anxiety.

Story: 111
Words: 92

Title: Embarrassing Moment

Henry played second chair clarinet in the high school band. Suddenly, one of the pads on his clarinet fell off and landed by his right foot. He bent down to get it and when rising hit the music stand with his head. The solo clarinetist stopped playing and the stand fell forward onto the head of the solo flutist who also stopped playing. Henry looked at the conductor with “sorry” on his lips and he gave him a look that could have melted a brass statue. It’s a bitch being a teenager.

Story: 110
Words: 29

Title: Bird Shoot

The lake was still and blue as he rowed along the shore. He approached the blue heron slowly with camera in hand. Click and the heron was his forever.

Story: 109
Words: 71

Title: Apple

She got an apple from the refrigerator, washed it with a little soap, and rinsed it in cold water. She dried it and took a big bite of its sweet crunchiness. The phone rang and she lay the apple on the counter. A roach scurried from its dark hiding place and took a bite of the apple from where she had eaten. It ran at her approach waiting for another opportunity.

Story: 108
Words: 82

Title: Life Goes On

It’s morning and the birds are announcing their pleasure with the warm rays of the sun. Soon the ground will warm and life there will start moving in its predestined action to replicate itself.

“I want a baby,” she said over breakfast.
“Are you sure we’re ready?” he questioned.
She ate some more egg and mumbled, “I have never been more ready.”
“Can we afford it?” he asked.
“We can make it work, don’t you think?” she said.
He felt utterly helpless.

Story: 107
Words: 67

Title: Awakened

I awoke in the night hearing the sound of someone banging a cymbal. My sleepy confusion kept me from action, but in time I rolled out of bed and started looking out windows for the source of the noise. It was a family of raccoons playing with the garbage cans. Feeling satisfied and safe, I went back to bed and dreamt of my noisy childhood birthday parties.

Story: 106
Words: 25

Title: The Problem with Politics

“I’m confused,” he said.
“About what?” she asked.
“About politicians out for themselves. Whatever happened to country first?” he asked.
“Entitlement killed it,” she exclaimed.

Story: 105
Words: 74

Title: The Lake

That night, after the birds had quieted down and the crickets had taken their place, he walked to the edge of the lake. There were way too many stars for his citified mind to take in so he imagined they were just holes punched into the night sky. The moon surprised him as it peaked over the mountain causing him to sit down hard on a rock. He had had way too many beers.

Story: 104
Words: 38

Title: Taco

I bit into the crisp taco. Crunch! Grease dripped out of the bottom and bits of taco shell flew everywhere. The first bit of heat hit my tongue; I inhaled its fiery essence; and savored the vibrant flavors.

Story: 103
Words: 71

Title: Yesterday

He had fifty cents in his pocket as he walked to the corner store and went directly to the comics arrayed in the window. This was the best kind of day. He would spend what seemed like hours choosing the exact comic book. Would he choose Superman, The Shadow, or perhaps the one about alien creatures? He considered them all very carefully, making sure he had change left for penny candy.

Story: 102
Words: 83

Title: Bike Ride

He was traveling West on the bike trail enjoying the Spring air and the trees with their new leaves. It was as if the power of his legs was going directly into the Earth and propelling him along. Suddenly, he felt an eye looking at him on his left. Just as he dismissed it, another eye on his right. He waited for the next one, slowed and when it appeared he slammed on his brakes, looking back. There was nothing there but disappointment.

Story: 102
Words: 48

Title: The Wind

He watched a leaf being blown across the street by the wind. A car came by and sent it off in a whole new direction. Life, he thought, is like that. Just when you start enjoying the wind you discover you’re not in control. You gotta love it.

Story: 101
Words: 83

Title: Cliff Phobia

Cliffs; he hated cliffs. When he looked over the edge his guts felt like they would twist into knots and tie him into a pretzel. But here he was with his new girlfriend in Yosemite at the top of Glacier Point at eye level with those towering granite monoliths. He stared at Half Dome and suddenly a large bird flew buy and grabbed his attention. “Oh, shit,” he said realizing he had looked down. He hurled over the fence. She took his hand.