Joined: Oct 2008 Gender: Female Posts: 68 Location: Parkman, ME Karma: 0
Do Not Recall w/ Heart's Raging Despair villanelle « Result #1 Yesterday at 8:14pm »
Do not recall with heart's raging despair, Surveying past and seeing only shame, Reach ahead, along with Helper, a pair.
Paracletos guides, shining light on fair Maiden's soul, desiring Him, One in pain, Do not recall with heart's raging despair.
Upon her knees, dragon circles air; Yet pregnant one cries out, her spirit sane; Reach ahead, along with Helper, a pair.
Babe squalls, fists balled, angel choirs surround there, As star bursts forth, proclaiming birth, of the Name. Do not recall with heart's raging despair.
Walking earth, arms spread wide, enfolding dear Children, Savior heals, yet blind to the same, Reach, reach ahead, along with Helper, a pair.
Blood and water flowed, mingled agony, As Messiah bore my sin, weighted heavily. Do not recall with heart's raging despair, Reach, reach ahead along with Helper, a pair.
Joined: Oct 2008 Gender: Female Posts: 68 Location: Parkman, ME Karma: 0
Re: Short Story Submission « Result #2 Yesterday at 7:40pm »
I thought that this story really gave a glimpse of another culture. It left me wanting to know more. However, I personally would have preferred more showing and less telling. An example of this would be when Marshall pays the cab driver. Instead of phrasing it as you did, you could write something like, "Marshall dug into his pocket, fingers grasping his weathered wallet. Withdrawing, he fingered the leather. A small smile tugged at his lips as he removed a fifty. Handing it to the cab driver, he winked. "Keep the change."
« Last Edit: Yesterday at 7:41pm by candibahamas »
Joined: Oct 2008 Gender: Female Posts: 68 Location: Parkman, ME Karma: 0
The Rescue (short story) « Result #3 Yesterday at 4:00pm »
The Rescue
Biting cold seeped into me as sleet hammered. As I trudged through blinding white, I cradled my arm. Pain shot through it as daggers. Ducking against the blasts, my eyes roved, peering through icy sheets. A shaky form stumbled away from me. Cupping my hands around chapped lips, I cried out, “Elizabeth!” Steps slow, she picked her way, boots sinking into snow. For a moment, she stood, body resisting battering bluster. Then, she turned toward my voice. Her auburn hair whipped about her face as she bent her head. Chin touching the top of a bundle beneath her coat, she drew him close. A wail pierced the cacophonous storm. As sure as dawn follows blackest night, the cry dissipated with whistling wind. Struggling toward the pair, I hollered, “Hold on, Elizabeth!” Opening her mouth, she shouted into the jaws of the tempest, yet only God heard her plea. Father…Please help us! Be still my son. I’m trying Father…Lord, I can’t! Help me to be still in Your presence. I am your strength and shield. Trust in Me and find help! Thank You, God… As the prayer ceased, my thoughts drifted. My mind twisted, leaping as a roaring river, rushing around boulders, carving a new path. I remembered the night that we’d left Bangor Intl. Airport, heading for a small airport near Syracuse, New York. Jesse had checked the weather as he always did, mapping out our flight path. However, this time, his experience and pilot’s pride took over, outweighing common sense. "We can make it if we leave now.” Foolishly, I agreed. Oh, how I wish I had not… For a split second, Jesse diverted his attention from the controls, facing me and my wife. “It looks like weather may get rough ahead…” “How bad, Jess?” Worry creased her brow as my wife shifted our sleeping son, Paul. Placing a finger in his palm, she sighed as his chubby fingers closed around her own. “I am afraid that it could become pretty bad.” A muscle jerked in his cheek. Turning back to the instrument panel, he adjusted his head set. Pensive jade eyes searched my features. I covered her hand with mine. With reassurance that evaded, I squeezed her palm. Father, protect my family. God, have Your will, even in this… Unable to look at Elizabeth, I averted my gaze, staring out at snow-blanketed hills. Licking my lips, I swallowed. Lord, please… A fog filled my thoughts, jumbling coherent prayer. “Michael?” Suddenly, the aircraft jolted. Eyes popping open, Paul wept, face mottling, tears coursing down. The small plane jerked once more, nose plummeting. Jesse quickly pulled the nose up. Instantaneously, I floated, seatbelt eating into my midsection. Glancing at my wife, I noticed her clinging to our son as she lifted from her seat. As quickly as it happened, we rested back into our places. Jesse grimaced. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to pull the weightless trick on you…” “That’s okay. Just get us there in one piece!” I clapped him on his muscled shoulder. Cradling our boy close, Elizabeth whispered beside his ear. “Shh, it’s alright little one…” She planted a soft kiss on his cheek. As his crying eased, she bounced him slightly. “I love you!” He grinned, gurgling. Smiling, I forgot the present turbulence. I chuckled, eyes resting on my son. “Hey there!” Touching his smooth cheek, I leaned over him. Without warning, my head whipped back, slamming against the seat. Muttering, I rubbed the back of my head. Out of the corner of my eye, I glimpsed Elizabeth. My heart slammed against my ribcage, a prisoner attempting escape. Slumped forward, she laid unmoving, forehead resting on the copilot’s headrest, arms limp. Nestled between her chest and slender arms, Paul peeked out, lower lip trembling. Gripping her shoulder, I shook her. “Elizabeth.” God, please let her be okay… “Elizabeth! Come on, Hon…” I leaned toward her, placing a hand in front of her slightly parted lips. Warm, moist breath bathed my palm. Relief flooded me, chasing away doubt. Slowly, her eyelids fluttered. For an instant, our eyes held. The depths of what I found there eased my concern. "Hold on!” Lips set, indigo eyes intent, Jesse guided the plane amidst howling winds. Sleet pounded the fuselage as the prop whirred. “Oh, no…” A moan escaped him. Running a hand through thick, salt and pepper locks, Jesse mumbled. "What is it?” I craned my neck, staring toward my friend. "We’ve lost our instruments and I can’t see a single thing in this mess!” Mouth hanging open, I sputtered, “W-what?” Elizabeth’s head rose sharply, dipping back as her eyes rested on our little boy. “We need to pray.” "Yes.” As Jesse eyed the tempestuous elements, my wife and I bowed. Taking her hand, I wove my fingers between hers. I closed my eyes, lifting my heart to our Father. “Lord, You know our hearts. You know how frightened we are right now. We do not see how this plane will land safely – especially without instruments! We need Your protection, no matter what happens. Father, be with us and guide Jesse as he flies. Pour Yourself into him and direct him. In Your Son’s Name, Amen.” Opening my eyes, I smiled. Peace wrapped itself around my heart, a woolen blanket in bleak cold. Drawing my wife’s hand to my lips, I kissed it. She managed a shaky smile. “Don’t worry Hon. All will be well.” Abruptly, the nose dipped sharply. Wrestling with the controls, Jesse cried out. [left][/left]“I can’t break the dive!” Veins protruded in cords as his muscles tensed. Brow furrowed, sweat beading, he murmured continual prayers. Paul screamed, face beet red. Holding him against her body, Elizabeth soothed our boy. “Hush, little one…” She rubbed his head, brushing back a lock of baby fine hair. Though tension crackled about the cabin, my heart flooded, overflowing. With a protective arm, I pulled her near as we braced for the unknown. “It won’t pull up!” He grasped the radio with a free hand, dialing the emergency frequency of one hundred and twenty one point five. “Mayday, mayday… This is Niner Niner Foxtrot Gulf. We are going down. Repeat, we are going down!” Eerie static coursed through the radio. “Is anyone there?” The snowy bank appeared to elevate as the aircraft plummeted downward. In a massive jolt, it collided with a snow covered bank just as Jesse jerked the nose up. Skittering along, the fuselage rattled, as I grasped for anything solid. My left arm banged against the metal side, wedging between seat and wall. Groaning, I struggled to free it. Pain licked across it, tongues of fire. Pop! Face contorted, I cried out. Clenching my teeth, I shook my head. Focus, Michael. Come on! Turning, I noticed Elizabeth’s death grip on the seat whilst cradling our baby close. Her knuckles whitened as she squeezed the leather seat. Fighting for control of the plane, Jesse cried out to the Father. With each maneuver, he attempted to halt the aircraft, but to no avail. Sliding over an iced pond, it scraped along until it smacked into a snow drift on the other side. Snow sprayed up over the windshield, settling in clumps. Clunk. Clunk. Clunk! I released a burst of air. Briefly, I glanced about, assessing. "Are you and Paul okay, Hon?” She nodded, biting her lower lip. Her gaze drifted forward. A slight frown darkened her features. "What is it?” "Jesse.” Snapping my head in his direction, I called out, “Jess?” He sat in the pilot’s seat, gasping for breath. With one hand, he rubbed his chest, grimacing. Nausea gripped him in waves. Turning to one side, he vomited. It splattered onto his left pant leg, pooling in chunky goop. Groaning, he muttered, “What is this?” Heart leaping, pounding like a trapped fly in winter buzzing against the windowpane, I turned to my wife, mouthing, “Heart attack.” While Jesse sat, dry heaving, sweat beaded on his forehead. He continued to massage his chest. “My arm, it’s numb!” "Your left arm?” "Yes…” Fear clouded his expression as he sucked in a breath. Balling his fist, he pounded his breast. “I…hope this isn’t a heart attack…” My eyes stung. Clearing my throat, I forced back a hot lump. Elizabeth’s hand slipped into mine. Holding it captive, I brought her palm close to my heart. “Father…” Words eluded as sleet hammered the windshield blotting out all light. "Excuse me.” A rancid scent permeated the cabin, hanging in the air. "That’s alright, Jesse.” Nervousness swept over me. God, help! Heal him according to Your will… Out of the blue, he grasped his chest, eyes wide, struggling to breathe. He sank back against the seat, breath escaping as peace pervaded his features. “Jess?” Releasing my wife’s hand, I touched his shoulder. I shook him slightly. “Jesse!” Covering my hand with hers, Elizabeth shook her head. “He’s with the Lord.” A tear slipped down her cheek. I nodded. Facing her, I tenderly wiped her tear away. She sniffed. Eyes welling, I closed them, barring unshed tears. This is not the time for grief! As I opened my eyes, I sighed. Returning my attention to my trapped arm, I gingerly touched it. Wincing, I gritted my teeth. I eased my right hand under my arm, gently wiggling it. After a time, I freed it. Once more, pain washed over it. Ignoring the throbbing, I held the arm near, tying a makeshift sling with an old, oil-stained t-shirt. Elizabeth grasped the edges of my sling, smoothing them. Then, she secured the knot. Outside, the blizzard flared, temperatures plunging. Sleet pummeled the aircraft as if driven by a malevolent force. “If we stay in here, we’ll be buried.” “I know.” Her eyes brimmed, pleading. “What about his body? We can’t just leave him…” Deep within, my heart dropped. Grief threatened to squeeze all life from within, freezing my thoughts. Digging talons into my flesh, it tore, deepening the wound. I shook my head. Enough. “No. We can’t take his body. I want to as well but it would slow us down.” A lump formed in the back of my throat. With divine courage, I forced it back. “We need to leave now.” Okay.” I extended my hand toward her. Without hesitation, she grasped it. Pulling our son close, she held him against her body. Together, we stepped out into the raging storm. Sleet drove us back toward the wreckage, yet we pressed on. Wind howled. Trees groaned, creaking as boughs bent beneath the weight of forming ice. An old fir trembled, moaning and cracking as it crashed to the forest floor. Whumph! The blizzard muted all sound as we trudged ahead. Squinting through the sleet, I could barely make out the outline of the woods. “Let’s get in there.” I gestured toward the trees. She dipped her head in response, clinging to my hand as if it were her only lifeline. As I stepped forward, my boot sank deep into the snow. Snow dampened the top of my jeans. My eyes flicked to my wife and child. Fear coursed through me, mingling with dread. God, was this the right decision? Turning, I searched for the downed aircraft. A glint of metal winked through the onslaught and then disappeared. Oh God, save us! Do not fear. I sighed, as assurance washed away all other emotions. Thank You, Lord. Pressing toward the trees, I pulled Elizabeth closer. She stumbled, sucking in her breath. Hurriedly, I steadied her with my good arm. As I drew her up, her glowing eyes met mine. Releasing my breath, I grinned.
<><
Resting my cheek on Michael’s shoulder, I tried to control my shivering. The wooden roof of our man-made shelter sagged slightly beneath the weight of snow. Trees quivered, branches whipping as wind whistled an eerie tune. Paul began to cry, soft pitiful cries. I drew him near. “Oh Paul…” Brokenly, I whispered his name, eyes pooled, welling. A tear slid down, dripping onto his head. Shifting, I positioned myself, holding him closer. I draped my coat over him, sighing as he latched onto me, sucking vigorously. Leaning near, my husband placed his good arm around my shoulders. “What’s wrong?” Sniffing, I dashed a tear away. “I’m sorry, Michael. I should not be like this…” "No. It’s okay. Tell me…” Sucking in a breath, I pursed my lips. Finally, I released the pent up air. With it, tears once locked within flowed freely, streaming down. Shoulders shaking, I struggled for a steady breath. “Jesse was like a father to me, Michael. I miss him.” Nodding, I drew me near. He touched his lips to my temple. “I know. I’m sorry, Hon.” Gradually, my tears subsided as warmth filled me. Closing my eyes, I whispered, “At least we know where he is.” Indeed. However, that does not lessen initial pain.” As if a knife had been driven into my heart and twisted, my eyes popped open. Searing agony, almost physical, permeated my being. “I miss him so much…God, please!” Another tear fell unbidden. “What about his wife, Lisa?” Stroking my arm, my husband stared into the flickering fire. “It’s going to be a hard road but if she allows Him, God will see her through it.” The fire popped, hissing and crackling. Smoke rose, curling, floating and carrying on the winds. A log crumbled as sparks flew. Taking his arm from my shoulders, he tossed in a few more pieces of dried wood. Clunk. Clunk. Hiss. Pop! The glow from the fire bathed the surrounding snow in dancing orange, golden and ruby. Replacing his arm, he tenderly squeezed my shoulder. “I love you, Elizabeth.” Turning to him, I searched his handsome features. “I love you also.” A slow smile touched his lips, eyes lighting. Leaning toward me, he cupped my chin in his palm. Our lips met briefly as the storm raged on.
<><
“Hon?” Directing her gaze from the babe, she looked up at me. Her eyes held no guile, just an unspoken question. “I need to hunt today. Our food is gone and…” I shut my eyes before she could see what I did not wish to reveal. “I’ve managed to make a crude weapon. I sharpened the spear tip with my penknife. Perhaps I will hit something with it.” Opening my eyes, I squared my shoulders. She stared into my eyes, trying to discern any hint of trouble. At last, she nodded. “I’ll stay and look after Paul as well as the fire.” “Good.” Bending down, I planted a firm kiss upon her lips. I drew back. “Don’t leave the shelter unless there is dire need.” “I won’t.” She shuddered involuntarily. Thoughts running rampant, she fought to restrain them. “Oh. If you hear an aircraft, you know what to do.” She nodded. “Do you think the wood is dry enough?” “It hasn’t snowed all morning. It should be okay.” "I’m glad.” I raised a hand, eyes beaming as she waved in response. “Bye Paul!” I waved. Flapping his arm, he gurgled. Grinning, I smoothed his hair. I turned, squaring my shoulders. Grasping the spear, I headed toward the unknown. Lips forming desperate prayers, I focused on the task at hand. Tramping away, I scanned the trees. Tsseer! Tsseer! Immediately, I searched the noon sky. A bald eagle soared far above, riding air currents, wings spread wide. They that wait upon the Lord shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not grow weary, they shall walk and not faint. Pausing, I pondered the moment. What a wonderful reminder from Isaiah! Thanks, Father. My hair blew in a slight breeze. Stomach rumbling, churning, I winced. Trudging ahead, I watched for movement, spear poised. Out of the edge of my vision, a blur of white movement captivated me. Freezing, I faced a jack rabbit bounding through the trees. He weaved in and out, paws hitting snow before each spring. Drawing back my arm, I murmured, “Make my aim true…” As I brought the spear forward, releasing it, it darted to the side. The weapon sliced harmlessly into a snow drift as the rabbit hopped on. Clenching my fist, I loped toward the spear. I twisted it, sliding it from snow with relative ease. Jaw set, I continued on. The sun sank low, casting its last rays over the snowy landscape. My heart beat within, pounding as an ancient goatskin drum. Shoulders sagging, I sighed. Lord, should I turn back? Do not worry about tomorrow for tomorrow will take care of itself. Okay, Lord. I will trust in You alone. Spinning on the ball of my foot, I retraced my boot prints. As light faded, I whispered, “Direct my steps…” Without warning, a hairy black blur lumbered through the trees. It stood up on its hind legs, front paws drawn up, as its claws glistened. Snuffing at the air, breath emitting in misty puffs, it tested the wind. Frozen on the spot, I watched as the black bear turned away, plodding in the opposite directing. Releasing a breath, shoulders slumped, I trudged on. I breathed a silent prayer as shadows gathered. Suddenly, my eyes settled on several pine cones. Assurance washed over me. Bending down, I picked them up. “I guess this is Your provision, Father.” I gathered a small portion of snow, placing it on my tongue. As it melted, I sighed. The sigh rattled throughout my body. Lord, I know that You provide but what of my wife? I will never you my son. I know… Struggling against impeding tiredness, I continued on toward the distant light of our camp fire.
<><
Hunkered near the flames, I tossed on another branch. Crackle! Smoke rose in wisps as flames danced. Crawling toward the edge of the shelter, Paul peered into encroaching blackness. He paused, eyes roving shadows. Turning to face me, he gurgled. “Mama?” “Hey, there Little One…” Flapping his arms, he jabbered. Squealing, he grinned. “Oh, Paul…” He chortled, “Dada? Where Dada?” For an instant, worry clouded my heart, blocking rational thought. Lord, help me to be wise and gentle with my son. With words not my own, I whispered, “Dada will be back soon.” Gathering him within my arms, I tapped his nose. “Hey there…” He giggled. My golden necklace glittered in the firelight, teardrop pendant dangling just above his lips. Grasping it, he gummed my pendant. All at once, a lengthy howl pierced the stillness. Pregnant with peril, it drew to a crescendo, tapering off amid steady wind. Owuuuuuuu. Pausing, I stared through the trees into impending darkness. Owuuuuuuu! A wolf, at least one… Without delay my son released the pendant, wailing, fists balled. Bending over him, I rocked Paul against my chest, whispering promises of safety that I could not keep. I backed further into the shelter, holding him near. Lord, please help us! Protect us… Father, be with Michael as he hunts and makes his way back. Don’t let him lose his way! Lord, please do not let these wolves hurt us… Daughter, do not be afraid. Drawing in a breath, calmness filled me, chasing out all terror. Thank You, Father… Tears sprang into my eyes as I leaned over Paul, cupping his head with my palm. The eerie howls approached as darkness descended. A pack of wolves materialized out of the shadows. Forgetting His reassurance, I allowed fear to rein. Blood pumping, adrenaline racing, I cried out as one trotted near, teeth bared. Hair raised, others growled, the sound emitting deep within their throats. God! One leapt forward snapping at me. A scream choked out, as I leapt up, shielding my son. Stumbling from the shelter, I plowed headlong into the snow. His wails came louder as Paul jostled in my arms. Face mottled red, tears streaming, he cried out in protest. I murmured to him, not daring to stop. Paws pounded snow behind amid snarls and growls. Grrrr! Jumping, I dove forward, hand protectively around my son’s head, the other under his hip. His wails pierced me as my boots sank into snow. Praying continuously, I charged onward. [b]Fear not. I am your shield, your present help in time of trouble.[/b] [left][/left]Oh, Abba… Peace rolled over me once more chasing away all other emotion but survival and love. Snow flurried downward as the wind moaned among tubular trees. As I toiled on, darkness thickened. Driven by an unseen hand, sleet hammered my body repeatedly. Paul cried pitifully, waving his arm. Placing him inside my coat, I zipped it up. I peeked at him. Blinking back, cheeks flushed deep red, he sniffled, tears streaming as snow morphed to sleet. Do not be afraid. I AM. I will lift my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from You! As if obeying a silent command, the wolves turned, melting into the blizzard.
<><
As I entered our camp, I glanced around. The fire burned low, embers glowing. A few flames licked at the last remaining log. Bending down, I tossed on more dried wood absently. Pop! As sparks flew, smoke rose, curling. Immediately, I straightened, searching the shelter for my wife and son. Pausing, my heart froze within. I groaned. “Elizabeth!” The cry belted into falling snow. “Paul!” I stuck the spear into the snow. Running a hand through my damp locks, I muttered a curse. “God, forgive me…” Suddenly, my eyes rested on the tracks. Wolves! Dear God… A knot formed within as I read the imprints in the snow. Wincing, I grimaced. The pine cones scattered, colliding with soft snow. “Lord, help me to find them!” Gripping the spear, I set off once more. Lips set, eyes unwavering, I hurried along, following the tracks. I wove among the trees, crying out to God. Father, watch over my precious son. Protect Elizabeth. Please, Lord! Muscles screaming in protest, chest heaving, I clenched my teeth. Snow fell heavily. Boughs laden with snow bent low, threatening to shake off their burden. Covered in gray, the firmament shadowed the land. Snow converted to sleet, mocking me. God, my God, please be with them. Bring them back to me unharmed! Son, give them back to Me. What? They are Mine. I hold them in My hand. Father, you are right. Forgive me for holding them so tightly.They are indeed Yours first and foremost! A tear slid down my cheek. Wiping it, I hurried onward. I squinted through sleet, trying to discern any sign of life. Sighing, I plodded onward, boots sinking into snow. Biting cold seeped into me as sleet hammered. As I trudged through blinding white, I cradled my arm. Pain shot through it as daggers. Ducking against the blasts, my eyes roved, peering through icy sheets. A shaky form stumbled away from me. Cupping my hands around chapped lips, I cried out, “Elizabeth!” Steps slow, she picked her way, boots sinking into snow. For a moment, she stood, body resisting battering bluster. Then, she turned toward my voice. Her auburn hair whipped about her face as she bent her head. Chin touching the top of a bundle beneath her coat, she drew him close. A wail pierced the cacophonous storm. As sure as dawn follows blackest night, the cry dissipated with whistling wind. Struggling toward the pair, I hollered, “Hold on, Elizabeth!” Opening her mouth, she shouted into the jaws of the tempest, yet only God heard her plea. Father…Please help us! Be still my son. I’m trying Father…Lord, I can’t! Help me to be still in Your presence. I am your strength and shield. Trust in Me and find help! Thank You, God… My son’s wail jolted me back into the present. “Hang on, I’m coming!” Struggling against the wind, I inched forward. Lips moving in silent prayer, I trudged toward my wife and son. Exhaustion swept over me permeating every joint. I paused. Father, give me the strength… At once, strength swept into me, stirring my heart. Tossing the spear aside, I stepped forward. Purposefully, I jogged toward them, pulling Elizabeth to me with my good arm. “Oh, Hon…” Tears fell unbidden. Resting her head against my chest, she breathed my scent. A slight smile played upon her lips. Releasing her, I gripped her hand. “Let’s return to the shelter.”
<><
The fire roared, crackling as Michael grinned. The tantalizing aroma of roasting pine nuts teased my senses. Stomach cramping, I rubbed it. I sighed. Closing my eyes, I listened as an owl hooted in the distance. I opened them, drinking in the surroundings. Moonlight glinted on freshly fallen snow. A few snow flurries settled downward, floating amid the crisp night air. Snow sparkled as minute diamonds. As we should reflect Christ… Smiling, I shared the insight with my husband. He nodded, reflecting on the goodness of our Lord. Touching the food, he withdrew his finger, sucking it. “Hmm. It seems done.” I nodded as he bowed his head. Together, we thanked the father for His provision and protection. As Michael whispered an ‘amen’, Paul jabbered contentedly. Opening his deep brown eyes, Michael passed me a handful of nuts. “Thanks.” “You’re welcome.” We ate in relative silence, munching on the roasted goodness. As I bit into the pine nuts, juices flowed over my tongue. Savoring the flavor, I laughed aloud. Arching an eyebrow, Michael gazed in my direction. “What?” “Oh, I’m just thankful.” A smile spread over his features. His eyes lit, dancing. “Me too.” Turning toward our son, I offered him sustenance. As his mouth closed, he sucked with vigor, fist pressing against me. Cradling him, I draped my coat across him, shielding him from the biting wind. He snuggled close to me, his warmth close to my heart. Sighing, I whispered, “I love you, Paul.” Placing his right hand on my shoulder, Michael managed, “You are a wonderful mother. Did you know that?” Startled, I turned to stare into his eyes. The sincerity I found there brought his heart ever nearer to mine. “Thank you.” Squeezing my shoulder lightly, he smiled. “I meant it.” Replete, Paul pulled away. Drawing him up, I shifted the coat, cradling him close. I rubbed my hand upon his back, methodically patting it. At last, he burped softly, lips parted. Eyelids heavy, my little one laid his head on my shoulder. Gingerly, I wrapped him in my coat, nestling him safely within the shelter. My eyes rested on Paul as he slept soundly, eyes closed. Releasing a breath, I shifted my gaze. “Thanks again, Hon. I truly appreciate you expressing it, though…” Nodding, he enfolded me in the warmth of his embrace, touching his lips to my forehead. He drew back, eyes intent. “I almost lost you both tonight. If that had happened…” Turning away, he shook his head. A tear slipped down. “I’m sorry.” Clearing his throat, he whispered, “I love you.” “I love you too, Michael. More every day…” Leaning up, I fingered his russet curls, drawing his head downward, my eyes slid shut as our lips met.
<><
A low rumble sounded, growling in the distance, invading my dream. Shaking myself awake, I struggled to rise. With tired hands, I rubbed my eyes, blinking. Peering into the sky, I spotted something. It rumbled. It rumbled? An aircraft? “Elizabeth, get up!” “Hmm?” Her eyes opened slowly. “A plane!” “What?” Leaping to my feet, I grasped a torch, dodging between trees. “Come on! Hurry!” Shaking herself, she gathered the baby, dashing behind me. Brushing a light layer of snow off of the signal fire, I muttered a prayer. I touched flame to wood. It caught. Flames licked upward until it roared and crackled while hissing and smoking. At the base, it popped as the embers began to glow. Smoke billowed. The aircraft flew low, dipped its wings and disappeared. Hope surged within. “They’ve seen us! They must have picked up the signal from Jesse’s transponder!” “Thank God…” Smiling, I drew her near. “Don’t worry, they’ll send help.” “I know.” She grinned, eyes shining. “I love you, Hon…” Pulling her nearer, I touched my lips to her temple. She rested her head against my chest, closing her jade eyes. “I love you too. You’ll never know how much…” Releasing her, I cupped the back of Paul’s head. Bending down, I kissed his cheek. He stirred. Flapping his chubby arm, he babbled, “Dada…” My eyes lit up, sparkling. Smiling at my son, I whispered, “Hi there, Son! I love you, Paul…” Chucking him under the chin, I laughed as he gurgled. A distant whirring disturbed the moment. I raised my eyes to the sky. A black dot approached from the same direction the plane had come. Chew. Chew. Chew. Chew!A helicopter! Raising a fist into the air, I cried out in exuberating joy. The cry echoed about the surrounding mountains, swelling around us. My son giggled beside me, waving his chubby arm. Blades beating air into compliance, the copter neared. The pilot positioned the chopper above us, hovering overhead. My curly hair whipped, blasted by the rotors. Lowering a man from within, the helicopter waited as he descended the line. As soon as his boot clad feet touched snow, his china blue eyes met mine. “One at a time! I only have one harness!” Nodding, I gestured toward Elizabeth. “Take my wife and son!” She gazed at him in fear. “Can you take both me and my baby?” “Yes.” “Okay.” Her features eased slightly. He slipped the harness around her, securing it. Presenting a ‘thumbs up’, he held onto the line as the crew hauled them up. In military fashion, he released her. A medic checked her over for injuries, giving the okay. As they lowered the man once more, he smiled at me. His boots hit snow and he beckoned me near. Securing me to the harness, he adjusted it. With everything in place, he held up his thumb. At once, the line began to withdraw into the copter. Thoughts muddled within as I hugged his waist with my good arm. Once inside, he loosed me. Plopping down beside my wife and son, I hardly noticed as the medic fussed over my broken arm. I sighed. Emotions warred within. Thanksgiving, relief, joy and sorrow… Turning to our rescuer, I held out my right hand. He gripped it. As I released his hand, I turned toward my family. Lord, what if I’d lost them? My eyes welled. Forcing the thought away, I shrugged. I placed my right arm around Elizabeth’s shoulders. She smiled at me, patting my knee. Paul drifted off to sleep in her protective arms as the helicopter blades whirred. Thanks that I did not lose these precious ones. Father, be with Jesse’s wife. Comfort Lisa as only you can… I am sufficient. Yes, You are. As the chopper headed back, I stared out at breathtaking beauty. Snow-covered mountains descended into icy valleys. Frozen lakes glittered as snow-blanketed firs stood, proud sentinels. The sun slipped below a distant peak. Its rays were fingers painting the firmament with hue. Deep orange, cherry, navy and gold splashed across the sky, a testament to an awesome Creator.
« Last Edit: Yesterday at 4:10pm by candibahamas »
Joined: Oct 2008 Gender: Female Posts: 68 Location: Parkman, ME Karma: 0
Re: Tell us where you're from « Result #5 Yesterday at 3:18pm »
I'm originally from Nassau, Bahamas. However, at present, I reside in Parkman, Maine. Parkman is roughly an hour away from Bangor (depending upon the weather). I truly enjoy living there. To top it off the house I live in is constructed from a silo. On the outside, i looks like a green grain silo, with windows and a flat roof. The roof also has a gazebo on top. It's quite unique and an inspiring place to write.
Joined: Oct 2008 Gender: Female Posts: 68 Location: Parkman, ME Karma: 0
Re: Stranded « Result #7 Yesterday at 3:11pm »
Update on Stranded... I am no longer using it as a novel. It was just too much to rework it. However, I wrote another novel rough draft (with a whole different idea) and that is workable. Pleas pray that it will be done according to God's pleasing and perfect will!
Joined: Oct 2008 Gender: Female Posts: 68 Location: Parkman, ME Karma: 0
Word Became Flesh (poem) « Result #8 on Dec 20, 2009, 3:58am »
Word Became Flesh
Minute fingers clutch Mother's slender one, Lips working despite sleep, Dreaming of His plan.
Starlight bathes His baby's cheek, Kissing, A warm caress, Beloved sleep.
Wise men follow Traveling star, hearts awash With love and awe Hindered slightly by delay.
Jealous king in bloody rage, Commands the slaughter Of all Bethlehem babes; Only to be thwarted.
Shepherds cry in exultation, Dashing toward manger laid, Where within they find as told The Son of God, the Christ, a babe.
Myrrh for his burial, beloved King, Frankincence, a scented perfume, With gold to form a sacred crown Upon the head which bore our shame.
Only Emmanuel, among us God, Could sacrifice upon the cross, Presenting His blameless life's blood, Poured out upon the Mercy Seat.
As temple veil is torn asunder, Hanging limp yet pulling them close, Soldier stands at foot of cross, Affirming Yeshua's deity.
Despite burly guards at watch, Light pierces through the cracks Whilst stone is rolled away; Messiah follows garden paths, Fragrance floating round Himself.
Risen Savior assures, Comforting and teaching His own Till the Father's heart stirs, Bringing Jesus home.
« Last Edit: Yesterday at 7:44pm by candibahamas »
Joined: Oct 2008 Gender: Female Posts: 68 Location: Parkman, ME Karma: 0
Re: New Book out by Christmas! « Result #9 on Dec 20, 2009, 2:45am »
Hi Fay and all writers/readers/editors (US)
I am in the process of tweaking a second novel. This will be a stand alone, completely different from the first. Truly, I sense Christ pulling me away from too much bloodshed to more focus on Him and His ultimate plan. He is good and will work it our accordingly. Please pray that this novel will be one that honors Him and brings Him the glory due His Name.
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