It’s been WAY too long. I see the photo each week, and throw up my hands… stuck in my writer’s block, crazy schedule, or apathy. But my writing friends at FF are always with me in spirit, and last week (though we missed each other in Croatia) Loré nudged me: offering up a challenge: to start here. One 100-word story, to break the ice. I’ve done it in 98, late to the party, but hoping the bug has bitten again. I’ve really missed this weekly opportunity to write flash fiction, read other wonderful writers, feel inspired and be part of something so special. If you are looking for these same things, throw your hat in the rink and join us! Check out Rochelle Wisoff-Fields’ blog for more details! This weeks photo is from one of my favorite writers, Claire Fuller. My rusty but sincere entry follows; as always honest, constructive feedback is much appreciated. Thanks for the encouragement Loré!
© Claire Fuller
Magic In My Palm
“If you hold it to your ear, you can hear the ocean. Here, try!” My mother handed me the speckled shell.
“That’s not real; it’s just air in the shell’s chamber.” I rolled my eyes and looked at the delicate pattern.
“Don’t be so serious; take a listen.”
Knowing she’d never relent, I held the shell to my ear and closed my eyes. The waves washed up gently, then the sharp call of gulls and sand on my skin. Our first kiss came back, fresh and new. I smiled, as I placed the shell back on the shelf.
(98 words)
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TALES FROM THE MOTHERLAND 
That doesn’t seem rusty to me at all, Dawn – it’s a tribute to the power of imagination. Though we know the unicorn doesn’t exist, there’s a space in our bestiary where it would exist, if it existed. And so, it does,
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Thanks so much! I feel like I’ve gotten really rusty with the 100 word challenge, but oh how I love doing it! I really appreciate the kind words and encouragement.
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A-a-a-n-d, you’re back! Yeah!! 🙂
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A-h-h-h-h good for you! Thanks friend. xo
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My favorite part? “Don’t be so serious; take a listen”. Ah, such wonderful advice for everyone in every situation! AND I’m starting a new meditation practice in which this week’s theme is “Naked Sound” where we just listen to sounds like for the first time. Perfect! Thank you for this gem!!
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Thanks Veronica; the meditation sounds intriguing! Thanks so much for taking the time to read and comment; I’m grateful.
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Great way to re-enter.Totally understand why you’ve had a hard time making time. It’s fall. Time to come inside and go within. I love the photo and understand why you were able to respond so well to it. Shadow boxes are great for little memories. I’m looking at mine right now as a I write a response. They do tell stories of their own. YOU inspire me to write. I’ll post a photo of my shadow box and then commit to writing the stories about the items, not necessarily for publication, but for my own records, and maybe for the girls. I’m inspired. I always look at the photos and love seeing where you take them!
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You should join us, Heidi; I think you might really like it. Writers at FF come from all over, and all walks of life. It’s so inspiring and supportive! I so appreciate you taking the time to give me feedback and encouragement. You know, I’ve got mad love for you! xox
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It’s incredible how something can take us back to another place.
Memorable moments even in the most mundane thing.
Beautifully written … no cob-webs do I see. ~~~ : – )
Isadora 😎
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Thanks so much Isadora. Trying to dip my feet back in the water, and perhaps take a swim. 😉 I really appreciate your kind words and support. Thanks!
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Sometimes we just need to use our fantasy… a little bit like being nudged back to writing isn’t it? Hope you keep the sea-shell and keep on being inspired by the sound of waves…
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Thanks Björn. It’s so wonderful to see the peeps I I’ve connected with, here in this special space. I’ve missed it so much! Yes, here’s to seashells and sacred spaces.
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Very sweet. Glad mom won that round.
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Thanks! We moms gotta win sometimes. 😉 Thanks so much for the feedback; it’s much appreciated.
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So happy to find you here, Dawn! That is rusty? Sheesh… lemme know when you are on fire… 😉 Nothing better than putting serious aside and having a listen…
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Oh Dale, you are so sweet, and thanks so much for that! I let my own self-critic run the show, too often. It feels great to be back among wonderful writing friends!
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Nice simple tale, very well written.
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Thanks so much Lain. I really appreciate you taking the time to stop by and read my work, and check out Tales From the Motherland. The feedback helps push me forward. Thanks!
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You’re welcome 🙂
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Dear Dawn,
I’m doing a happy Hora at seeing you back! Rusty? Feh on rusty. Sweetly, layered piece.
Hugs and shalom,
Rochelle
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Thanks so much Rochelle. How wonderful to have you dancing on my behalf! 😉 It’s SO good to participate again; I’ve missed my FF peeps!
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Magic is still there, its like you never left. ❤
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Thanks so much Loré; that really means a lot. I appreciated your nudge; you really got me moving on this! Thanks! xo
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It was my pleasure. 😉
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Now, a second welcome back. I’m glad I scrolled back in time to read this piece. It’s certainly delightful. Amazing how a sight, smell or sound can whisk us back in time.
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SO true! Sometimes a flashback is as real as the moment it happened. Thanks for taking a look back; it wasn’t expected but is much appreciated! xo
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Hi Dawn, I loved the imagery and the way this built up to a surprise ending but I have a query. I am saying this with trepidation, but you do ask for honest feedback? Shouldn’t it say “my first kiss”? Otherwise, as no one other than the mother has been mentioned, “our” seems to refer to the first kiss between the mother and the child, which would be weird. Can you see what I mean?
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Kate, first of all, I absolutely appreciate honest feedback; please don’t ever feel any trepidation about offering it! 😉 Admittedly, it’s been a while since I wrote this, and I had to study it a bit. I see your point completely. I would have to give it some thought… I think your suggestion is a good one. Thanks for taking the time!
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Phew! Thanks Dawn. I love reading your posts, so the pleasure is all mine.
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I love that you actually went back and read one from so long ago. I have had a lot on my plate, and haven’t been good about posting, or reading. But, I save them and read later. 🙂 Thanks Kate. Off to bed… finally!
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Night Dawn. I hope you are able to sleep well.
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