What a week for writing! Somehow I’ve managed to get in early, two weeks in a row… it’s called insomnia! In the meantime, my piece on the holiday blues is on fire at Huffington Post and in one of the happiest blogging things (for me) in ages, the Gratitude Blog Party I started, is creating a wonderful swell of good vibes. I would love it if my FF blog buddies would join! It’s really easy. Check out this post; then write your own (10-15’ish minutes), and link up to this feel good thing. So far 41 other bloggers have joined; please check it out and consider adding your name! I love the way blogging brings so many people together; this is a bright reflection of that.
Friday Fictioneers is a weekly flash fiction challenge that also brings lots of great people together. Rochelle Wisoff-Fields generously herds us cats and makes it look easy! It isn’t. Thanks Rochelle! To learn more, check out her blog, Addicted to Purple. This week’s photo was provided by Scott L. Vannatter. As always I welcome honest, constructive feedback.
*Wishing all of you a joyous Christmas filled with love and good things! *
© Scott L Vannatter
“The Stockings Were Hung By The Chimney With Care”
“Shit! What the hell!”
Caught in the act, Santa took a nervous step back and dropped the cookie. The hairs on his neck stood up.
“That’s a good little guy… go back to sleep,” he cooed, in his most soothing baritone.
He eased backwards, carefully dragging his giant sack of gifts with him. He hated these situations; anything he did was likely to wake others.
“That’s a good boy…” He reached out gingerly.
Tigger snarled again.
The lights on the tree amplified the effects; he wished he’d brought the catnip.
(wordcount: 90)
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Help Me Reach My Goals! KAPOW! The Tales From the Motherland Facebook page recently hit the 2015 goal of 800 likes (which I set after hitting the 700 mark)! I’m going big for the next year and aiming for 1,000!! Have you stopped by to spread some fairy dust? Follow me on Twitter, LeBron James does (yes, for real)! Most importantly, if you like a post I’ve written, hit Like and leave a comment. Honest, constructive feedback is always appreciated.
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TALES FROM THE MOTHERLAND 
Dear Dawn,
Santa’s in a bit of a pickle isn’t he? Cute story.
Thank you for being part of Friday Fictioneers. You help make it what it is…fun and addictive. 😀
Shalom and Merry Christmas.
Rochelle
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You are too kind, and one of the best things about FF, Rochelle! I’m so grateful that Amy got me here, and that all of the wickedly wonderful writers pull me back each week! Happy holidays! xox
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Big cat-astrophe! Nice one, Dawn. And your Huffington Post article encapsulates my feelings almost entirely. I won’t be the only one to greet the end of the festive season with relief and hope, I guess. 🙂 Well done.
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Thanks so much Sandra. While I look forward to time with friends and family, admittedly, December is not my finest hours. I have so appreciated your wonderful feedback all year. May your journeys be smooth and the new year bring you all the best! xo
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More trouble than a guard dog!
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Cats are more intimidating… me thinks. Happy holidays, Louise!
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They are! Merry Christmas Dawn.
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That cat is wicked cute 🙂 The fur’s gonna fly!
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Seriously! Thanks for your comment, and for taking the time to visit Tales From the Motherland. Happy holidays!
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Hilarious, Dawn. Tigger has caused a hitch in Santa’s efficient delivery system. Well done as always. I haven’t read your Huffington Post piece yet, but I will. Happy Holidays to you and yours. 🙂 — Suzanne
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Happy holidays, Suzanne. I am grateful for your feedback all year long; thank you! xo
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🙂 — Suzanne
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Lovely story, and wonderful Huffington Post piece, Dawn. Happy Christmas!
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All the best to you, Claire. I know 2016 holds much more in this grand adventure you’re on. All the best!
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Cool story, raised a chuckle.
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Thanks CE. I always appreciate your feedback; thank you!
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As a character in one of my daughter’s story books says: drat that cat! Nice one, Dawn.
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Sheep in a jeep… love me some children’s books! Happy holidays, Adam; thank you for your feedback!
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In a twisted sort of way, I love that even Santa says ‘shit!’ I guess it’s okay since he was heard only by the cat, but thanks for that glimpse behind the scenes. – Mike
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I wondered if anyone would call me on that, Mike. Glad it was you! Happy, happy holidays! xo
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Love it! A different side of you in writing!
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Thanks Heidi. Like to mix it up! 🙂
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Great take on the prompt. The cat does indeed look startled, as if he’s been caught in the act. Merry Christmas!
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Those eyes are perfectly chilling to me, Paul… only one way to go! Thanks for the feedback; it’s much appreciated.
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This is fun, fun, fun.Poor old Santa, never thought of him in such a pickle.
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Thanks Alicia; it seemed like good timing for fun. Merry Christmas!
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Hehe, who knew that Santa had such problems. What a fun story. Happy Holidays!
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Thanks Gah! I just wanted to be silly for the holidays. 😉 All the best for the holidays!
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Poor Santa. He must be getting forgetful to overlook the catnip after so many Christmases with so many family cats lurking about. Wonderful story. I love your Santa.
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Even Santa can drop the ball, Margaret. Hope your holidays are wonderful!
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Marvellous and funny story! Merry Xmas! Kate.
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Thanks Kate! I appreciate your feedback. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
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Charming!
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Thank you!
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this is such a cute story! a delightful read indeed. thank you for sharing ❤
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Thank you for stopping by Tales From the Motherland; I appreciate you taking the time to read and share your thoughts!
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At first, I thought Santa had stepped in the litter box. That would keep the sleigh stinking all night. Maybe a can of sardines would have soothed Tigger’s growl.
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It’s not that often that I step into your arena, Russell: humor. I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it.
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I’m always careful around one of my cats – don’t want to get her mad! LOL so I can sympathize with Santa. Merry Christmas.
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Welcome to Tales From the Motherland, Mom! 😉 I appreciate you taking the time to read and comment… I’m not sure I would trust many cats around the Christmas holidays; too many temptations!
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Mine have been suspiciously good – although they have been eaten the plants.
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I enjoyed this article very much. I’m glad I stumbled upon your blog while searching for new reading materials. Keep on doing what you are doing!
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Thanks Kally, and welcome to Tales From the Motherland. I’m glad you enjoyed this, and I appreciate your time and feedback.
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Most welcome! Do drop by MiddleMe to say hi when you got the time!
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I really like your site… lots to look at!
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Thank you so much!!!
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Reblogged this on ugiridharaprasad.
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Pingback: Friday Fictioneers:The Stockings Were Hung By The Chimney With Care | ugiridharaprasad
I always appreciate when you share my work; thank you!
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What a fun twist on the story! I would like to nominate you for the Sunshine Blogger Award. If you choose to accept, here are the rules: https://mariner2mother.wordpress.com/2015/12/31/bringing-sunshine-into-my-life/ . Happy New Year.
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Susan, you’re the best! Thank you so much. I am so lucky that we have connected through blogging and really appreciate your ongoing support and positivity. Thanks!
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