Prompt: 30 years ago you avoided being killed by a killer by claiming you would change the world. The killer has returned to check your progress. What do you say?
Change the World
A little part of me has kept track of May 17th. I would mentally mark it as another year I lived, when I could have died. This year a I prepared for bed I realize 30 years had passed since I had been confronted so closely with death. I smile at my husband distracting him from his show with a long kiss that ended us in bed.
In the middle of the night, I had a sudden urge to go to the restroom, I had just stood up in my darkened room when a familiar sensation came over me and a hand silenced my scream. His voiced whispered in my ear, “I'm back.” My eyes flick towards my sleeping husband, and he laughs, “Your husband cannot save you tonight, I have given him a little something to help him sleep,” he said flashing a needle in front of my eyes.
“What do you want?” I stuttered backing into the bookshelf behind me after he removed his hand. His face was in shadows. All I could see was a small glint of silver in his eyes.
“Your time is up.” He said, and he must have seen some confusion in my face because he continued, “30 years ago you said you would change the world, now I am here to see if you have. If you haven't then I will finish my work.”
It all came back to me in a flash, the night sleeping alone in my apartment, my promise to change the world and his time limit. A part of me did not think he would actually return after 30 years, but here he was.
“So,” he said quietly, menacingly stepping towards me, the moon glinting off the silver blade, “have you changed the world?”
“Yes,” I whispered.
“How?” he replied.
“I had children.”
“That doesn't change the world,” he said lunging for me.
I slid away from him crying, “Yes, it does. Let me explain.” He stopped just watching me so I continued. “I have a beautiful daughter, talented in art, but more importantly she loves children. She is a teacher with special needs children. Each child receives her special help and love. She changes their lives with her love and care.”
He stepped towards me again. I was trapped against a corner, so I continued, “I have son, talented in music. He plays many instruments and sings. He lifts hearts with his music, but he is also a protector, a Marine, like his father was. He puts his life on the line to protect others and allow people to live.”
He stepped toward me again so I keep going, “I have another daughter, my youngest. Her smiles brighten rooms and though she has not chosen her path yet, I know she will do great things as well.”
I looked at him, this killer, who had returned to kill me for not changing the world and said one last thing, “Thank you for giving me this time to marry a wonderful man and raise such amazing children. If you do not feel I succeeded in changing the world then we will agree to disagree and I am satisfied with what I have done.”
Finished, I watched the killer who suddenly bowed and turned, walking away. I heard the front door open and close as I slid to the floor, tears streaming down my face. I had survived another night. I looked at my beloved husband for a few minutes before picking up the phone.
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
Prompt 4
Start the story with: "That's when she learned to fear the silence."
We agreed that the first sentence did not have to be the prompt sentence. It was to be fitted in where it would work best with the story.
Here it is:
She sits in the chair, rocking back and forth, listening to the children play. Their laughter fills the house and she smiles. When the night comes and the children go to bed, she sits in their bedroom. She must hear them breath. No one attempts to move her for they all know why. It all began one night, many years before as a new mother. She woke in the darkness, in the silence. She knew something was wrong. Rushing to the bassinet she placed her hand on her baby's stomach, screaming when there was no movement. She called the police, but it was too late. That's when she learned to fear the silence.
We agreed that the first sentence did not have to be the prompt sentence. It was to be fitted in where it would work best with the story.
Here it is:
She sits in the chair, rocking back and forth, listening to the children play. Their laughter fills the house and she smiles. When the night comes and the children go to bed, she sits in their bedroom. She must hear them breath. No one attempts to move her for they all know why. It all began one night, many years before as a new mother. She woke in the darkness, in the silence. She knew something was wrong. Rushing to the bassinet she placed her hand on her baby's stomach, screaming when there was no movement. She called the police, but it was too late. That's when she learned to fear the silence.
Monday, May 9, 2016
Prompt 3
This prompt involved the picture with the question; what is she waiting for or why is she waiting?
Casually she waits behind the pillar, her clothing picked to blend in with the theatre crowd. Soon the show would end and hundreds of people would exit the doors. Surrounded by the crowd, no one would notice another pretty face, nor the gun clasped lightly in her right hand, waiting to be put to use. It would only take a minute to find the right person. He would fall to the ground, while everyone watched, the blood beginning to stain his fancy suit. She could then disappear into the crowd, never seen, never noticed, and never caught. That is why she is called The Shadow, assassin for hire. Finally, the doors open.
Casually she waits behind the pillar, her clothing picked to blend in with the theatre crowd. Soon the show would end and hundreds of people would exit the doors. Surrounded by the crowd, no one would notice another pretty face, nor the gun clasped lightly in her right hand, waiting to be put to use. It would only take a minute to find the right person. He would fall to the ground, while everyone watched, the blood beginning to stain his fancy suit. She could then disappear into the crowd, never seen, never noticed, and never caught. That is why she is called The Shadow, assassin for hire. Finally, the doors open.
Friday, May 6, 2016
Prompt 2
This prompt was to write anything I wanted. The catch was that the first letter of each sentence had to spell a message that contradicts the rest of the story.
Here it is:
The truth about love is that it is easy. Research shows that when in love, you naturally think of your significant other. Unless that love fades, you will try to always put your special person first. Even when in danger, you will naturally think first of your love. Love is such a unique experience, you will recognize when you feel love immediately. Often people say love is confused with lust, but this is not possible. Volumes of scientists have shown lust to be superficial, while love is more steady and easily distinguishable from each other. Every conversation you have with your love will begin with words of love, never anger. If there is any doubt about your love, then you may be falling out of love, and need to divorce soon. Such divorces are common and perfectly acceptable. Having that special someone makes life complete. All you have to do is find your true love. Real life will then become brighter. Despite the trials, life will never feel sad. While waiting for your love, have fun. Only you can know when you are in love. Remember, love is easy to find. Keeping true love is easy to do.
What is the secret message?
Here it is:
The truth about love is that it is easy. Research shows that when in love, you naturally think of your significant other. Unless that love fades, you will try to always put your special person first. Even when in danger, you will naturally think first of your love. Love is such a unique experience, you will recognize when you feel love immediately. Often people say love is confused with lust, but this is not possible. Volumes of scientists have shown lust to be superficial, while love is more steady and easily distinguishable from each other. Every conversation you have with your love will begin with words of love, never anger. If there is any doubt about your love, then you may be falling out of love, and need to divorce soon. Such divorces are common and perfectly acceptable. Having that special someone makes life complete. All you have to do is find your true love. Real life will then become brighter. Despite the trials, life will never feel sad. While waiting for your love, have fun. Only you can know when you are in love. Remember, love is easy to find. Keeping true love is easy to do.
What is the secret message?
Tuesday, May 3, 2016
Prompt 1
The prompt says: At the age of 21 everyone receives a weapon that embodies them perfectly
I could hardly sleep last night. Today was my turn to follow the tradition. I had watched my older brothers get their weapons, and was anxious about what I would receive. History taught us that during time of war every 21 year old had received a weapon, like a sword or hammer that they could use best. As time progressed and peace prevailed the definition of weapon had changed. Now a weapon meant many things. One of my brothers received a stethoscope, signifying he would fight against disease. My other brother received a pencil set and paper, signifying he would fight with his art. Both of those fit my brothers perfectly. Some people still received actual weapons, but that was not as common, even though war seemed to be on the horizon. Today would tell me who I was, what I had to offer my community. My biggest worry was that I would receive nothing. It was rare, but every few years it happened. Some said receiving nothing meant that person had too many talents to offer, while others said they were worthless. I really hoped I was given something.
The time had arrived. With about 5 others I waited. My name meant that I would be the last one called. I struggled not to fidget in the beautiful blue dress my grandmother had made for me. The satin skirt shimmered, while the velvet bodice was soft as I rubbed my fingers on the long sleeves, in an attempt to calm down. The sun sparkled through the changing leaves. Only the breeze ruffling the leaves dared to interrupt the traditional speech. I concentrated on the play of the sun and leaves on the ground, determined to portray myself with dignity.
I jumped when the first name was called. So much for my dignity. I watched the first candidate approach the stage and kneel before the elders. As tradition stated, the eldest elder approached the candidate and called out a request for any body who felt that the candidate did not deserve the honor of a weapon to make themselves known. If no one came forward than the candidate was raised to standing and presented with their weapon. The ceremony seemed so short as quickly my name was called.
I walked to the stage and knelt, listening to the elder call for any opposition. No one came forward and I was helped to stand before the elder. The moment had arrived. The youngest elder, being only in his sixties, approached me, under his cloth he pulled out a tiny silver book on a chain, the symbol for learning. I sighed in relief, but before I could do more than take the book another elder approached. Pulling a silver tear drop out of his pocket, he presented it to me. Confused I took it, watching as another elder approach. She pulled out a silver flame and presented it to me. Then I was given a silver tree, and a silver cloud from the remaining elders. I could hear the murmurs of the crowd. A candidate had never received more than one symbolic weapon, nor any so obscure.
Finally the oldest elder stepped forward, motioning for silence. “For years,” he atoned, “we have held to tradition of presenting weapons. This tradition began with a king, who felt that each of his people possessed the ability to be great. When this king died a prophecy was foretold of a queen that would be born with courage, strength, and power to lead her people and again unite the lands. That time has come!”
I could hardly sleep last night. Today was my turn to follow the tradition. I had watched my older brothers get their weapons, and was anxious about what I would receive. History taught us that during time of war every 21 year old had received a weapon, like a sword or hammer that they could use best. As time progressed and peace prevailed the definition of weapon had changed. Now a weapon meant many things. One of my brothers received a stethoscope, signifying he would fight against disease. My other brother received a pencil set and paper, signifying he would fight with his art. Both of those fit my brothers perfectly. Some people still received actual weapons, but that was not as common, even though war seemed to be on the horizon. Today would tell me who I was, what I had to offer my community. My biggest worry was that I would receive nothing. It was rare, but every few years it happened. Some said receiving nothing meant that person had too many talents to offer, while others said they were worthless. I really hoped I was given something.
The time had arrived. With about 5 others I waited. My name meant that I would be the last one called. I struggled not to fidget in the beautiful blue dress my grandmother had made for me. The satin skirt shimmered, while the velvet bodice was soft as I rubbed my fingers on the long sleeves, in an attempt to calm down. The sun sparkled through the changing leaves. Only the breeze ruffling the leaves dared to interrupt the traditional speech. I concentrated on the play of the sun and leaves on the ground, determined to portray myself with dignity.
I jumped when the first name was called. So much for my dignity. I watched the first candidate approach the stage and kneel before the elders. As tradition stated, the eldest elder approached the candidate and called out a request for any body who felt that the candidate did not deserve the honor of a weapon to make themselves known. If no one came forward than the candidate was raised to standing and presented with their weapon. The ceremony seemed so short as quickly my name was called.
I walked to the stage and knelt, listening to the elder call for any opposition. No one came forward and I was helped to stand before the elder. The moment had arrived. The youngest elder, being only in his sixties, approached me, under his cloth he pulled out a tiny silver book on a chain, the symbol for learning. I sighed in relief, but before I could do more than take the book another elder approached. Pulling a silver tear drop out of his pocket, he presented it to me. Confused I took it, watching as another elder approach. She pulled out a silver flame and presented it to me. Then I was given a silver tree, and a silver cloud from the remaining elders. I could hear the murmurs of the crowd. A candidate had never received more than one symbolic weapon, nor any so obscure.
Finally the oldest elder stepped forward, motioning for silence. “For years,” he atoned, “we have held to tradition of presenting weapons. This tradition began with a king, who felt that each of his people possessed the ability to be great. When this king died a prophecy was foretold of a queen that would be born with courage, strength, and power to lead her people and again unite the lands. That time has come!”
Thursday, February 18, 2016
Pretzels
Who does not like large, soft pretzels? I love them. I rarely ate them, because as a treat they were just too much to buy all the time at the mall, but I would take a nice long sniff as I walked past Aunt Annie's or Wetzels Pretzels. I wanted to be able to enjoy these treats more often then once a year. I knew that would require making them. I was little nervous about making pretzels. I didn't want to ruin them and I thought they might be complicated. One day I ran into an issue of what to have for dinner and I was craving pretzels. That night I went for it and decided to try making pretzels. I decided to use the recipe from http://www.recipeboy.com/2014/01/how-to-make-homemade-soft-pretzels/
Turns out making pretzels was not that complicated. Making the dough was pretty simple, it was a lot like making bread. I think the most complicated part was twisting the dough into pretzel shape. After making eight balls with the dough, I would roll each dough out as long as I could, like making a snake with play dough. Then I would twist the ends around each other twice before bring down the edges to the middle section. Then I would shape the dough to look like a pretzel.
After cooking and buttering the pretzels we ate them. I and my kids loved them. They were delicious. I have made this recipe twice with great results each time. The first time I shaped all the dough before dipping it in the water/baking soda bath and the second time I dipped the dough immediately after shaping. It did not make a difference to the flavor or taste or size. They were still delicious.
Turns out making pretzels was not that complicated. Making the dough was pretty simple, it was a lot like making bread. I think the most complicated part was twisting the dough into pretzel shape. After making eight balls with the dough, I would roll each dough out as long as I could, like making a snake with play dough. Then I would twist the ends around each other twice before bring down the edges to the middle section. Then I would shape the dough to look like a pretzel.
After cooking and buttering the pretzels we ate them. I and my kids loved them. They were delicious. I have made this recipe twice with great results each time. The first time I shaped all the dough before dipping it in the water/baking soda bath and the second time I dipped the dough immediately after shaping. It did not make a difference to the flavor or taste or size. They were still delicious.
Basic Muffins
Easy, quick and delicious, muffins are a wonderful compliment to breakfast, snacks, even dessert. I have been trying to find a basic muffin recipe. I wanted one recipe where I can add different ingredients to make different muffins, without having a ton of different recipes. I decided to try the basic recipe from http://hubpages.com/food/Making_Muffins_from_Scratch_-_Basic_Muffin_Recipe
When I think muffins, I think the more sweet variety with fruit or chocolate chips. This recipe looked like it would handle these different flavors. First I wanted to find out how good the recipe is and if it is a recipe that I want to continue to use. I decided I would bake the basic recipe with the chocolate chip addition, mainly because my family really enjoys chocolate.
First, I pulled out my ingredients and bowls.
Usually, I use my nice Bosch mixer to make up my dough, but muffin dough should be mixed only until the ingredients are combined, so I prefer to mix muffins by hand. Unless you are doubling or tripling a batch, it is not any harder to mix muffin batter by hand than a mixer.
As usual when I first use a recipe I try to follow it exactly as possible, so I mixed my dry together and then my wet before combining them.
Generally, though, I mix my dry together and then throw my wet in with the dry, mixing as I go. I haven't found that this causes too much of problem and saves on the dishes I have to do later.
I added my chocolate chips, a little more than the recipe called for because my family really does like chocolate, put it in a greased muffin tin and baked them for 18 minutes. They came out looking beautiful.
The muffin was delicious, not too dry, and had a nice flavor without being too sweet, even with the chocolate chips. I will definitely use this recipe again, probably with even more variation, just to try some more flavors that I enjoy. Hopefully this basic recipe can stand up to my experiments.
Basic Muffin Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
3/4 cup milk
1/3 cup vegetable oil
In a large bowl combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. In a small bowl beat the egg, milk and oil. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir just until moistened. Add in your flavor. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups three-fourths full and bake at 400 for 18-20 minutes. This makes one dozen muffins.
Chocolate Chip Muffins: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips
Blueberry muffins: Add 3/4 cup of blueberries and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Add lemon zest if wanted.
Cinnamon Raisin muffins: Add 1/2 cup of raisins and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
Quick Bread: Pour all the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 400 for 45-50 minutes.
When I think muffins, I think the more sweet variety with fruit or chocolate chips. This recipe looked like it would handle these different flavors. First I wanted to find out how good the recipe is and if it is a recipe that I want to continue to use. I decided I would bake the basic recipe with the chocolate chip addition, mainly because my family really enjoys chocolate.
First, I pulled out my ingredients and bowls.
As usual when I first use a recipe I try to follow it exactly as possible, so I mixed my dry together and then my wet before combining them.
Generally, though, I mix my dry together and then throw my wet in with the dry, mixing as I go. I haven't found that this causes too much of problem and saves on the dishes I have to do later.
I added my chocolate chips, a little more than the recipe called for because my family really does like chocolate, put it in a greased muffin tin and baked them for 18 minutes. They came out looking beautiful.
The muffin was delicious, not too dry, and had a nice flavor without being too sweet, even with the chocolate chips. I will definitely use this recipe again, probably with even more variation, just to try some more flavors that I enjoy. Hopefully this basic recipe can stand up to my experiments.
Basic Muffin Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
3/4 cup milk
1/3 cup vegetable oil
In a large bowl combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. In a small bowl beat the egg, milk and oil. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir just until moistened. Add in your flavor. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups three-fourths full and bake at 400 for 18-20 minutes. This makes one dozen muffins.
Chocolate Chip Muffins: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips
Blueberry muffins: Add 3/4 cup of blueberries and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Add lemon zest if wanted.
Cinnamon Raisin muffins: Add 1/2 cup of raisins and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
Quick Bread: Pour all the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 400 for 45-50 minutes.
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