Author: val

~ The Seventh Step ~ It was the haunting memory of the seventh step that kept her up most nights. A leap out of bed to close the door she purposely left ajar in order to challenge her inhibition, a guarded stance behind a closed door listening for a squeak no one else seemed to … Continue reading ~ The Seventh ~ →

  Birds soaring high above the clouds to reach a comforting patch of blue sky, a duck resting boldly on a turbulent wave or an escape into a movie drama that is destined for a happy ending... These were only a few of the places where Rita could find solace, and for a brief moment … Continue reading Woolgatherer →

Ann Fitzpatrick Gordon grew up in a small Yorkshire town during the early part of the 20th century, a time when industries such as coal and textiles were in decline. Her father Eugene Fitzpatrick and her three brothers were part of the wave of workers made redundant during an already difficult time.  Ann’s mother Polly, … Continue reading Ann Fitzpatrick Gordon →

  Joseph William Lacey was from the heart of Nebraska's corn country, a place that still to this day takes pride in its county fairs and special events. It was during these county fairs when his grandmother won recognition for her sweet cornbread. Each year the family would pack up their truck and head for … Continue reading Joseph William Lacey →

Chuck Dolan was a grouchy old man who murmured and complained about everyone and everything.  All day long he was too hot or too cold, too hungry or too full; nothing seemed to satisfy the stubborn mind-set of the cantankerous old man. The neighbors considered his behavior odd and wanted nothing to do with him, … Continue reading Chuck Dolan →