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The Power of TWO: A Short Story
His name is TWO, and he is a secret agent of the United States government. After a few years of going out on missions, TWO's conscience began to nag at him. Leaving the spy industry can be tricky.
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Writer Without a Clause: My Muse Must Have Fallen to Covid
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Might Hope Someday Rise? A Poem
The sea, wind, waves, and time are featured in this poem that explores the terrifying seasons of life.
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The Subtle Wonders of the World: A Nature Essay
We spend lots of time and money running around to see the wonders of nature. I'm not playing down the impressive giant redwoods or the Grand Canyon, but many amazing things are happening very close to home. In this essay, I share my experiences while fishing on a small lake in northern Michigan.
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Making Other Plans, A Short, Short Suspense Story
Dr. Frederick Dooley is a scientist who has learned the secret of immortality. While trying out his theory on himself, he learns that he has not taken into account every possible consequence.
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Writer Without a Clause: All Life Matters
Which lives matter? Which ones matter most? Follow my line of thought here for a unique description of what divides us as sexes, races, and religions. In the end, it is a respect for all life that leads us to an appreciation for all lives as individuals.
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The Hayride, A Short, Short Suspense Story
A hayride turns into a nightmare during a social outing designed to help stressed out employees relax.
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No One Lives on Barlow Road, Short, Short Fiction
It was a idyllic place and time. Remember Mayberry? Yeah, like that. But Andy wasn't the Sheriff, and Barney didn't exist. The people loved and trusted one man to guide them in a time of trouble. Choose your heros carefully.
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The Inland Seas, A Poem
This poem is a response to fellow hubber, Ann Carr's challenge to write a poem based on four possibilities. I chose, "Under the Seas". The result is a poem about Great Lakes shipwrecks.
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The Clock, Part 2, A Short Story
In part one, Jacob's mother had been murdered by a coworker at the bank where she worked. The killer had framed Jacob's father. Now, fifteen years later, he has new evidence regarding the murder. It is time for revenge.
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Writer Without a Clause: Live and Learn, an Essay
These are the days of adversity and hardship. But these are also the days in which we can learn life's most important lessons. Our parents, grandparents and great-grandparents endured the Great Depression. It was the formative point in their lives. This time we are enduring will define us.
- 24
Springtime in the Forest
This is a poem about a walk through the forest in spring using our five senses to comprehend what is around us.
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Cerasela Dancing, A Fantasy Poem
In this fantasy poem, the good queen blesses her people while a sinister foe wreaks havoc in her wake.
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An Ode to Cheese: With a Poem Challenge
In this time of "stay at home" orders from our various governments, we search for ways to occupy our spare time. Many have turned to food. We search for recipes and new kinds of grub. Here is a poem and a challenge to pull it all together.
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The Clock, Short, Short Fiction, A Response to Bill Holland's Photo Challenge #5
Jacob was the son of a woman he adored and a man who had been convicted of murdering his mother. A mystical, ethereal, terrifying experience changed his life and the memory of his parents.
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Watching From Afar, A Poem for New York City
This is a spontaneous, heartfelt expression of sorrow and concern for the people living in New York City today. Our hearts are breaking.
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Writer Without a Clause: Survival, Pleasure, and the Next Generation
I'm committed, in these articles, to writing what's on my mind at the time I choose to write. What happens when my head is muddled with multiple topics. Well, here it is.
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Ode to My Beloved TP
These days are tough to get through. I want to offer another humorous interlude, a chance to laugh at ourselves and our sometimes bizarre behavior in trying times.
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Little Jack Horror: A Horribly Twisted Nursery Rhyme
We've all heard of Little Jack Horner, but maybe his evil cousin has escaped your attention. Little Jack Horror has more wicked intentions than defacing a perfectly good plum pie.
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The Woods Welcomed Me, A Short Short Story
As a child, I grew up on a farm where there seemed to be no boundaries. The woods was mine, the barns were mine, the fields, cows, pigs, and chickens were mine. But there were lessons to learn about life, and I am still learning today.
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Live or Leap, My Response to Bill Holland's Challange #4
Floyd loves his job as a Pullman porter on trains that crossed the continent. Without his job, he would likely sink into deep despair. He toyed with two ways to resolve his dilemma. One way, he would play God. The other way, he would let God.
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Madcap and Marlin
Madcap Marlin has had a tough life. It got to be so bad, he blocked certain parts from his memory. His way of forgetting pain was to perform daredevil feats like parachuting from skyscrapers and hiking into known bear country. Psychologically, he took quite a beating. Here is how Marlin survived.
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Killing the Dead: A Short Story, Part Two. My Response to Bill Holland's Photo Challenge
Jonas, aka Gunny finally has the chance to even the score between himself and his family, including a young lady five generations after his death. Using a portal between this world and the underworld, Jonas comes back to kill the woman who dares to revive the family farm.
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Killing the Dead: A Short Story, Part One. My Response to Bill Holland's Photo Challenge
Amy has a dream to bring the family farm back into productivity after more than one-hundred-fifty-years. The problem is, she has disregarded the folklore that tells of the homestead's demise. When she brings back the farm, will she also resurrect the resident evil?
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A Knight in Shining Armor and a Wounded Heart: Short Tragedy, Part Two: A response to Bill Holland’s Photo Challenge #2
This is the continuation of the story about the broken love affair between Bethany and Galen. She finds an ancient book that tells her all about gallantry. She longs for her heart to be won by a man who would fight for her and be willing to die for her or even kill for her love.
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A Knight in Shining Armor and a Wounded Heart: Short Tragedy, Part One: A response to Bill Holland’s Photo Challenge #2
Bethany and Galen had been in love, but she wanted more. She found a book that put into words the kind of love she craved and set out to make it a reality. Would her one true love become her knight in shining armor who would heal her wounded heart?
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The Thistle's Flower: Short, Short Fiction
The pathway is neither good nor bad, right nor wrong, not two things but one thing that we must learn to understand. Walk with me into a pinpoint of enlightenment.
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Asleep In the Mother's Bosom: My response to Bill Holland's Story Challenge (Updated)
A wealthy, powerful man is in the throes of insomnia that has lasted for weeks. He visits an uncle's country estate where he goes for a relaxing walk to a meadow. There he finds a two-hundred-year-old grave and marker. He also discovers an overwhelming urge to sleep.
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Writer Without a Clause: My list of Firsts
The history of the world is, at least in part, a record of who did what first. On the personal level, firsts play an important role in helping us make sense of our lives.
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The Visitor: A Short Short Story
A man walks the streets of a town he barely has any memory visiting. He encounters a woman who turns out to be an important link to his past.
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35 Facts About the Blue Whale
Blue whales inhabit every ocean of our modern world. Their future existence is in question. This article will inform you about at least 35 important facts regarding the history and current status of blue whales.
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Man's Bequest: A Poem
This poem explores the world around us and makes observations about divergent attitudes toward the environment. We can either preserve it or categorically destroy it. Nature will continue with or without mankind.
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The Jackpot: Short Short Fiction
I went to work for Dr. Leary thinking he was a wonderful doctor who cared about his patients. I learned through sneaking and spying that he was a very bad man. But now, am I any better?
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A Witch's Revenge: Short Short Fiction, Horror
Tim headed out on a rainy night while he and his family visited St Louis. He had a simple mission to buy hamburgers and fries and take them back to his wife and daughter at the hotel. But he met a strange little girl who had a different plan.
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Writer Without a Clause: The New Starlet of D.C.
With all of the sobering news on the airwaves today, it is as refreshing as a hot cup of coffee to read about the new starlet of Washington D.C., Emma Dumain. We watch her gulp her coffee and laugh, but she helps us look much deeper into the American condition.
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The Audew Air Fryer: A Review
Air fryers are very popular right now, and the choice of brands, sizes, power, and accessories can be enough to make you throw up your hands and walk away. Enter the Audew 12-liter, 1700-watt air fryer. I've got one and love it. I think you will too.
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Shiny Things: Short Fiction, a Response to a Writing Challenge by Dzymslizzy
Analisa inherits a precious gold locket and chain from her grandmother. It is stolen by an unlikely thief. She prays for a miracle and waits to see what happens.
- 21
Learning to Walk in the Light: Short, Short Fiction
One man faces the darkness of his past and, with the help of a friend, learns to walk in the light.
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Writer Without a Clause: Paleo Living
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Rosa's Hope: Short, Short Fiction
Young Rosa's home was the cemetery in the city. Her family was the thousands of other children who lived around her. She longed to find a better life, and thought she had. But her hopes were dashed. Could anything cause her to hope again?
- 22
Checkout Time: A Reflective Essay
Camping might be simply an overnight visit to a popular campground. But it also might be a man's expression of his own manhood. There are serious matters to consider as you venture down this path. Be prepared to think and laugh deeply.
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When I Fall: A Poem
What happens when we die is a mystery. No one knows for sure what awaits us. Some claim certainty. I understand, but I do not agree. We really don't know. How could we know? No one has come back to tell us the truth.,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
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Believe It or Not: Writing and Reading Short Fiction
Readers have expectations when they pick up a story which means writers have responsibilities if they want to keep those readers coming back for more. The lifeblood of a story is its believability. Here are six elements of creating a sense of believability in short stories.
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Trespassers: Short Fiction
Carl was a farmer in the State of Indiana where he raised corn and soybeans on his own land. One day he spotted somebody crossing one of his fields. After confronting the man, Carl learned one of the greatest lessons of his life.
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Freddy Lee Ain't Got No Horn: Short Fiction
Officer Sly Richardson knew the people of his town and none better than Freddy Lee, a washed-up trumpet player of the jazz style. In a personal and special way, Sly challenges Freddy Lee to rise above his circumstances and take charge of his life.
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Writer Without a Clause: Death Wobble in my Jeep Cherokee XJ
The Jeep Cherokee XJ was a remarkable vehicle built by Jeep and Chrysler from 1984 to 2001 in the US. The Cherokee is, according to multiple sources, one of the best and most influential vehicles ever made. But it does have its issues, one of which I will discuss here from a personal perspective.
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Long Live the Universe, A Poem
As the universe expands outward, faster and faster, where are we headed? When it flys apart too far, when our eyes close, what's next. This poem explores these ideas and emotions.
- 32
Writer Without a Clause: My Nomadic Kitchen
I travel for my occupation. I get to visit every corner of the United States of America. I love the lifestyle, but I really do miss my very own kitchen. Read on to find how I compensate for this loss.
- 31
Writer Without a Clause: What Can I Do to Make the World a Better Place?
Can one person do anything to impact the whole world? In this essay, I look at three major crises facing the world and how individuals can act to help change the situation. Don't expect a comfortable little chat.
- 5
Audew 1500 Amp Car Battery Jump Starter Review
I've used the Audew 1500 Amp Car Jump Starter and found that I can get multiple jump-starts without recharging. This is a compact unit that will fit in your glove box. Use it to charge your phone or any piece of electronics.
- 15
The James Webb Space Telescope, the Formal Successor to Hubble
The James Webb Space Telescope will be the formal successor to the Hubble Space Telescope sending back to Earth, images of space which have never before been possible. Here is the history, description, and capabilities of the space telescope that has been in development for twenty-three years.
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Tangled Web: A Short Story, Part 4
Barry has the help of the CIA to rescue Carla from her Russian kidnappers. But two things must happen before all is over. The Russians must believe that Barry is dead, and the leader of the Russian cell must go free.
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Tangled Web: A Short Story, Part 3
Barry is in searching for his girlfriend who has been kidnapped by Russians in order to get to him. He has information that will jeopardize their operation to ruin the reputation of the U.S. on the world stage.
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Tangled Web: A Short Story, Part 2
Barry's fears that the Russians would kidnap his girlfriend, Carla, in order to get to him come true. Before he begins his search for her, he visits his boss, the Senator, in his hospital room in order to discover if the man has committed treason against the United States.
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Tangled Web: A Short Story, Part 1
Barry Alford is a congressional aide in the office of Senator Thomas Eagleton, a man Barry respects as a proud and loyal American. But he stumbles onto an email to the Senator that causes Barry to suspect his boss of treason.
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Perfect Poached Eggs in the Microwave
Yes, you can poach an egg just like the fancy restaurants do, simply by using a microwave. In fact, that's probably how the fancy restaurants do it, too. Here is a tried and proven, step-by-step procedure to poach an egg quickly, exactly to your liking.
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Writer Without a Clause: Old Man Syndrome, Essay #3
We're all getting older, there's no way around it. The question is, what kind of life will we have as we age. To a great extent, we have some control over the kind of life we have in our later years. Join me as I explore the possibilities.
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Sleepers: A Near Future Science Fiction Short Story, Part Five, Final
Benjie and Chesa are captives of the company for which they have worked for eight years. In the midst of their escape, they are escorted to the office of the company's CEO by a band of protective androids. They want the money they have been paid for their services and won't take no for an answer.
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Sleepers: A Near Future Science Fiction Short Story, Part Four
Benjie and Chesa sleep while the company known as PTI uses their brains as microprocessors to run the production plant. After 8 years, they've had enough. But the CEO is not ready to let her prize performers go. Benjie and Chesa learn of the plan to permanently sedate them and prepare to escape.
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Sleepers: A Near Future Science Fiction Short Story, Part Three
Benjie and Chesa want out of their jobs with PTI, but the CEO, Yasmine Albright, has different plans. Benjie and Chesa must think fast and act quickly if they are going to escape.
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Sleepers: A Near Future Science Fiction Short Story, Part One
Benjie and Chesa, orphans living next to a gigantic landfill in Manila, are approached by representatives of Progressive Technologies Inc. Their brains are examined and found to be what the company wants. But is this company something the children, if they were older and knew better, would want?
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Sleepers: A Near Future Science Fiction Story, Part Two
Benjie and Chesa, twelve year olds whose brains are being used as microprocessors to run a factory, decide they've had enough. They are ready to leave, but is the company ready to let them walk?
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Our Journey Through Space and the Expanding Universe
The Earth, our solar system, our galaxy, and our universe are on the move in every way imaginable. Here are six examples of how the universe is rapidly moving apart.
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The Many Crimes of Peter Pumpkineater: A Short, Short Story
The scene of the crimes is Fairy Tale Land. The crime is kidnapping. Sheriff Dumpty must solve the mystery before anyone else disappears.
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An Inside Connection: A Suspense-Horror Short, Short Story
Psychiatrist, Dr. Ann Price and her patient, Paul, had a fine relationship until Paul suddenly knew something about Dr. Price he should not have known. She was consumed with discovering how he had learned the damning information, but when she found out, she was sorry she had ever asked.
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Writer Without a Clause: Harmony, Essay #2
We each have an instrument to play, a part to play in this great orchestra of the world. Are you playing in harmony with those around you, or are your notes clashing and dissonant? Maybe it's time to retune the instrument.
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Little Jack Horner...Not So Little Anymore: Short Fiction
The characters in our favorite fairy tales are not doing so well in the land of fairies. Time has passed and they have grown up to face all the trials that former nursery rhyme stars face. Jack and Mary are no exception, but they work together to find a way out.
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Trouble in Fairy-tale Land: A Poem
Trouble was brewing in Fairytale land, that world where fairytales are born. The old favorites were degenerating into tales of near horror. So the king took the lead to solve the problem the only way he knew how. Give Fairytale land the chance to create a new fairytale with a happy ending.
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Number Eleven: A Short Fiction Story by John Hansen and Chris Mills
Clark was happily remembering the special date he had with a woman the night before when a man attacked him in the hallway of his hotel and attempted to cut him to ribbons. Clark fought back and fled to the safety of a nearby monastery where he learns that confession is not always good for the soul.
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Writer Without A Clause: Essay #1
Writer Without a Clause. This is the first and probably only installment of what will likely not be an ongoing series. It's me sitting here in front of my laptop with nothing particular on my mind to write about. Maybe I'll get brave and publish capsule by capsule as I write.Yeah, that takes guts.
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Rise Up, Oh Humankind: A Poem
A lyrical poem designed to carry the reader from the humble beginnings of a man to the arrogance of a self-dubbed god.
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Arizona: A Land of Extremes
Arizona. I've just begun a contract job here, and I am enjoying the land and the people. Join me as I share some of the places I've visited and one of the interesting people I have met along the way.
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Unlucky Looters: 2018 NYC Midnight Flash Fiction Challenge
When a seasoned criminal agrees to teach an underachiever the crime trade, he quickly realizes the novice is not cut out for a life of crime. In the end, he sees no other choice but to throw the poor boy overboard.
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Two Hundred Miles: A Narrative Poem
This is a poem about my son, Dan, who made a promise to his mother even as she was passing away. This poem tells how Dan is, at this moment in time, keeping his promise.
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America: Her Greatness Is Being Weighed in the Balances
It is common to hear America touted as the greatest country in the world. But how is such greatness defined? By military might? Wealth? Is America being made great again?
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Orlie's Ire: A Narrative Poem
The people of Orlie's Bend were ready to put an end to the murdering rapist who preyed on their town. In this narrative poem, the people of the town set forth with revenge as their guide rage as the fuel in their souls. Could the end possibly be worse than what had been?
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The Audew 2-Cylinder Portable Air Compressor: A Review
The Audew 2-Cylinder Compressor was designed to inflate tires on cars, trucks, RVs, and travel trailers as well as other inflatables. Bicycle and motorcycle tires, basketballs, and more can be pumped up if the compressor is all that the manufacturer says it is.
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Ghosts in the Street: Flash Fiction
They are invisible most of the time. When they are seen, people are often frightened and call the police. They are the ghosts who walk the streets of our cities. They steal from us and scare our children. Society goes on with its daily routine while the invisible ones pass like thieves in the night.
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Sublime: A Poem
We all like to escape into a good book or film. For a moment, the world is different. But then we return to reality. Escapes can be a substitute for being a catalyst for peace and goodness in the world. This poem delves into the temptation to escape as well as hinting at a real solution.
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The Victor, a Free Verse Poem; My Response to the Challenge by Annart
A never-ending battle is being waged between the sea and the rocky cliffs that form the ocean's boundaries in many places around the world. It is a conflict as old as the Earth. Stone versus water. Which will be The Victor?
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A Promise to Keep: My Son's One Year Journey in Honor and Remembrance of His Mother
This is a true story about the true story my son will tell in the near future. He set out nearly a year ago to keep a promise. In the next few weeks he will accomplish that goal. Come read as I describe how he is preparing to tell this story himself.
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Checkers and King: Flash Fiction
Checkers was an old man who loved the game of checkers and each of the seven dogs he had befriended over nearly a century. His reign as king of the town's annual checkers tournament was about to be challenged once again and his love for his latest canine friend was being put to the test as well.
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I Killed a Man Today: Flash Fiction
Trevor goes to his high school as normal one morning, expecting to see his girlfriend and to go to football practice after classes. But another student changes everyone's plans that day when he brings a gun to school. Trevor wrestles with what to do. Does he risk his own life to save others?
- 11
Good Harbor Bay, Michigan: An Essay for Ann Carr's Hocus-Pocus Challenge
This is an essay in response to fellow hubber, Ann Carr who extended a challenge to write, in poetry, fiction or non-fiction about our favorite bed ch. My article features Good Harbor Bay in northwestern lower Michigan near Traverse City.
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Storm Tower: A Short Story
Martha Storm is a star, not a rock star, but a star of the corporate world. In the year 2052, Storm enterprises is head and shoulders above the competition which is why her new skyscraper, her company, and her life have been targeted. Thriller. 5,000 well chosen words. This may be my best fiction.
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The Boar and the Wolf: A Poetry Challenge for My Hubber Friends
This poem is made with ten words that do not rhyme any other English words perfectly. Yes, it is silly, but I share it for your amusement. This is also a challenge for you to try doing the same thing. Write a poem using the ten words in the article.
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The Birds Begin to Sing: Flash Fiction
Sharon was his love, his life, his rose. When he went off to war, he promised he would return for her. But time takes its toll. Will love rise again?
- 16
Checking for Traffic: Flash Fiction
A man is being pursued in the city, at night, after work. He tries everything to lose him, but in the end, he turns and becomes the pursuer. This crazy cat and mouse story will have you on the edge of your seat waiting and hoping.
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Hiking Up a Mountain, My Dog and I: A True Adventure
A happy-go-lucky dog and his overly-anxious-for-a-weekend-adventure owner embark on an afternoon hike that quickly becomes much more than they had anticipated. The scenery of the western Montana wilderness enhances this story of an afternoon walk which quickly becomes a struggle to stay alive.
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More Excitement Than Half an Hour With Pat and Vanna: Flash Fiction
Getting older doesn't mean all the excitement has to go out of life. But half an hour of Wheel of Fortune may be as close to the edge as some people need to get. Join this fellow as he gives up his safe routine for a walk on the wild side.
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The River Hastens: A Poem
Rivers present a paradox in their annual changes from quiet meandering to raging flows. This poem reconciles the two in a description of the roles of each stage of the river.
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I Went to the Forest Today: A Poem
A stroll in the forest becomes a challenge to climb to new heights, experiencing greater freedom and the discovery of inner strength.
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Sacrifice: A Poem
Self-sacrifice has never been a popular topic, but we all admire those who have been willing to live such lives. It is much more difficult to take that step ourselves, but when we do, amazing things happen.
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Dinner By the Campfire: A Personal Essay
A simple car camping outing presented me with a critical choice. Would I use good sense or throw caution to the wind and go on with my plans. A silly mistake and a foolish decision afterward could have put me in a life threatening position.
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The Fourth Plateau: An Essay
I came to a remote place where nature thrived and man, if he stayed, would have to survive. There was plenty to please the eye and challenge the mind, but to get there was a challenge to the whole being. In the end he was not king of the hill, but an attentive student, an inspired artist.
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The First Week with My New Border Collie Mix
A new pet dog means changes in how the household runs, in schedules, and in how we use our free time. A dog can bring much needed companionship, and a sense of safety. Here is an account of my first week with Darby, my Border Collie mix.
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We All Cry Sometimes: Flash Fiction
Tom was suddenly an orphan and the adults around him wanted to send him to an orphanage. Tom had different plans. In a 1939 setting, follow the footsteps of nine-year-old Tom as he seeks safety and a life in New York City among the children known as Newsies/Newsboys. Word count, 1480.
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Old Bart's Awakening: A Narrative Poem
A narrative poem about the night old Bart came to terms with his family history and great social evil. Written with both rhythm and rhyme.
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No Regrets: A Sci-Fi Short Story
In this post-apocalyptic setting, Jim is waiting to graduate into the life and work that would be assigned to him. Graduating was everything to someone his age. Failure to graduate held immediate consequences. A young woman waits as well, and Jim challenges her to join him in doing the unthinkable.
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Time Will Tell: A Poem and an Essay
The circle as a sign of eternity is well represented in nature. The shapes of celestial bodies, orbits of planets, solar systems and galaxies, follow the circular/elliptic form. Through poetry and essay, we look at the possibility that man, too, might be following the circular path.
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The Lake of Shades: A Fantasy, Part Eight, The Conclusion
The final chapter. Rothfort and his companions confront Iyana, the head of the Dark Council. Everything depends on the outcome, freedom, or near slavery, even death.
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The Lake of Shades: A Fantasy, Part Seven
The time has come for Rothfort and to fight for his kingdom. Queen Iyana with the Dark Council stand against Rothfort, Buragon, Edric, Brin and Buragon's spirit guide. Evening, night and morning, the battle rages until a victor rises and the peasants of the realm look on.
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The Lake of Shades: A Fantasy, Part Six
Queen Iyana was the austere ruler of the kingdom of Dinas Gwyn, but unknown even to her subjects, she was not the true queen. She and nine others of the Dark Council had secreted away and murdered the royal family 100 generations before. The new Queen and Council ruled as immortals.
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4 Steps to Making New Friends
We all want to improve ourselves and become better people. In the process, we would like to meet like-minded people and make new friends. Here are four principles of communication that will set you apart from the crowd and make you a magnet for new friends.
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Two Brothers Three: A Humorous Poem
The silly poetry continues with a tale of two brothers who are pursuing the same, pretty girl. They lay it all on the line to see who will win the heart of the red haired girl.
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The Lake of Shades: A Fantasy, Part Five
Rothfort, King in waiting for the throne of Dinas Gwyn, was making plans for war with the queen and the Dark Council. Queen Iyana was really a sorceress who had overthrown the royal family 100 generations before. But Eadric, the Spirit-King has information that could improve their odds of winning.
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The Lake of Shades: A Fantasy, Part Four
Rothfort and those with him end their journey through the barren wilderness and arrive at the realm of Dinas Gwyn. The mission of taking back the kingdom is daunting, yet the price of cowardice, too high. They begin the task of winning the hearts of the thousands of peasants of the land.
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The Lake of Shades: A Fantasy, Part Three
Rothfort continues on his journey across the barren wilderness with a wizard and ghosts as his companions. The time has come for him to understand, accept and act upon who and what he is.
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Do We Care? My Response to Bill Holland's Story
Bill Holland wrote a short story called "The Old Man by the Side of the Road." It tells about a man who takes a homeless man to a restaurant for coffee and hears his story. It speaks of the effects of war and of homelessness and despair. This is my response
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The Lake of Shades: Fantasy, Part Two
Rothfort is on a journey for the Queen of Dinas Gwyn. He is to deliver a bag of stones taken from the Lake of Shades. But the stones are crying out to him with the voices of imprisoned royalty from ages past. A stranger visits and tells him that he has the power to release the spirits
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The Lake of Shades: Fantasy, Part One
Rothfort is a peasant in a feudal society. The place might be Earth in its distant past or another dimension. Or is it another planet? Rothfort is a bounty hunter who has taken on a mission for the Queen of Dinas Gwyn. Join him on his adventure to the Lake of Shades.
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The Face of a Woman: A Poem
The Face of a Woman is a poem about the most beautiful sight in the world. A woman's face shows every emotion and communicates with precision. A woman's face can slay the beast in a man's soul.
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What an Umbilical Hernia Is and What to Do About It
An umbilical hernia is a health issue that can be resolved by minor surgery and following a doctor's instructions. In this article is a description of what an umbilical hernia is and how to treat it.
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She's Too Hot: Comedy Poetry
This is a silly poem that tells the tale of a man's first date with a really hot woman. As it turns out, she's simply too hot.
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How to Read Very Short Fiction and Enjoy It
You will find an abundance of articles about how to write long and short fiction, but few regarding how to read short fiction and enjoy it. Here are seven ways for you to learn to enjoy a short story.
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Rebirth: A Reflective Essay
A hike up St. Mary Peak in the Bitterroot Mountains of Montana give me an occasion to consider my own personal struggles and those of the world around me. May we gain hope and courage from one another
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Crossing the Sands of Time: Reflective Flash Fiction by cam
A walk along a familiar beach brings back memories that seem to be from another life in which love, family, and joy were a reality. The future looms in contrast as a shadow of uncertainty.
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Cream of Wheat With a Twist, More Protein, Less Sugar
Here's a new way to use a good old hot cereal. For one 125 years, we’ve topped it with everything sweet under the sun. It’s time for a twist.
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Listen: Historical Flash Fiction by cam
This is the heartbreaking story of a psychiatric patient from the careless days of electroconvulsive therapy which was used, quite often it seems, as a means of behavior control in mental hospitals.
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The Undercity of Old Gotham: Horror Flash Fiction by cam
Ben met Sybil at the library where she worked. For six months they dated, although, strangely, she didn’t know where he lived. That might have been here first clue not to trust him.
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The Sea: Master and Mother
The ocean keeps giving long after the highest form of life on the planet chose to betray her. Read of the beauty, magnificence and generosity of the sea in contrast to the ugly behavior of man.
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Being Unique: The Fight Against Clichéd Humanity
Stereotype and cliché imply that all are the same. That's fine if we're talking about auto parts, but when applied to humanity, the result is a dead society. Oneness is unique people working together.
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Best Dressed: Comedy Flash Fiction
K'o and Rheca are aliens visiting Earth on Halloween. The peculiar behavior of humans baffles them as they observe an adult Halloween party complete with ghosts, corpses and jack-o-lanterns.
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When Is an Unborn Baby Alive?
When is an unborn baby a person? What does the Bible say? What can science prove? Is there an answer to the question, When does life begin? In this article, I share my personal experience, education, and political background. Evangelicals, I challenge you to read and defend your position.
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch: Sci_Fi Short Story, Conclusion
Ghar and the Rhonk robots have been defeated. The world now faces a future unlike anything ever imagined. In a tiny, high desert town, jake listens to his homemade radio.
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch: Sci-Fi Short Story, Pt. 9
The Rhonk robots are attacking. But the scientists, politicians, officers, and soldiers have not been idle. Many die in the first, unexpected wave. It is time for Earth's response. Word count 1136
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch: Sci-Fi Short Story, Pt. 8
Ruth and Toshu deceived and defeated the Rhonk robots on the derelict ark. Now it is time to face off with Ghar and his robots. Earth prepares to fight. Ground Zero? inside the D.C. Beltway.
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch: A Sci-Fi Short Story, Part Seven
Toshu sets her plan into motion to get rid of 1000 Rhonks on the derelict spacecraft. On Earth, the President hears the plan his team of scientists have developed for defeating Ghar. Word count 1189
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch: A Sci-Fi Short Story, Part Six
Aliens arrived at Earth in one derelict spacecraft and one fully functioning. with an ultimatum to surrender or face annihilation. Behind the ruse of capitulation, Earth schemes. Word count 1400
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch; A Sci-Fi Short Story, Pt5
Aliens have come to Earth. An Ultimatum has been issued; surrender the planet or annihilation. Washington and the world respond. The alien messenger, Toshu, makes a courageous choice. Word count 1350
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch, a Sci-Fi Short Story, Part Four
Two alien spacecraft are in the Earth's solar system, and they have communicated with The President of the United States. There will be a meeting on the South Lawn of the White House. Word count, 1375
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Unwanted Phone Calls and How to Stop Them
Marketers have discovered an inexpensive way to get the word out about their products and services...your telephone. Criminals use it to steal personal information. Here are ways to take control.
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An Arrow For an Olive Branch: A Sci-Fi Short Story, Part Three
The President has learned about the appearance of two alien spacecraft in the Earth's solar system. He is pulling together a team of scientists who will advise him on how to proceed. Word count 1161.
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch: Sci-Fi Short Story, Part Two
Alien spacecraft approach Earth with no communication. President Alec Golden, first year in office, surrounds himself with the men and women of Science as he learns to deal with the crisis. 1086 words
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My Time on HubPages and Where the Site Is Headed
Reflections on my five-plus years on HP, how I intend to continue using the site, and suggestions on how to improve the creative writing niche site.
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch, Sci-Fi Short Story, Part One
Ruth Billings is an astronaut and an astrophysicist. After a close encounter with an unidentified spacecraft on the moon, she is asked to be the president's advisor during the crisis that follows.
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Courage to Watch Them Die: An Essay by cam
Death. The longer we live, the more of it we see. What does it take to watch loved ones pass on? What gives meaning in the midst dying? This essay is based on the courage and experiences of my mother.
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Giant Slayer: Fantasy Short, Short Fiction
Arthur was a giant slayer, that is to say, he would be as soon as he found a giant to slay. His searching leads him to Wilmington where he uses his two staves to save the village.
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A Fairy Field-Trip to Polliwog Pond
Miss Beebonnet and her twenty fairy students were enjoying the annual Polliwog Pond field-trip. But this year, things were not going as planned. [Based on a recent visit by my muse during a dream]
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If We Must Die: Fantasy Flash Fiction
Charles has cancer...for the 2nd time. His son talks him into visiting a clinic in a restored castle. While there, Charles finds hope in visions of past inhabitants of the castle.
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My Next New Home: An Essay by cam
We all seek to form a meaningful existence out of the bits and pieces of life we call our own. Here are some scenes from my life to entertain you and make you think.
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Two Treatments for Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath can be a sign of serious health conditions. It can also be the result of two easily remedied problems. Stretching the torso muscles and drinking plenty of water can promote fr
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Four Ways for Fiction and Poetry Writers to Increase Page Views on HubPages
So you are a fiction or poetry writer on HubPages and want to do something about your less than stellar page views. Here are four ways I have found helpful to increase my overall page views.
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Ire of the Pike: A Personal Essay
This is an essay of fun, challenge, danger, fear and back to fun. A morning on the lake went from fishing for Northern Pike to fighting for our lives, or so it seemed at the time. `
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From Realms of Darkness: Horror Flash Fiction by cam
A man's home has been invaded by unknown prowlers. Unwilling to give up the ship, He chooses a hiding place with no way out. Word Count-936
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A Weekend With My New Best Friend: an Essay by cam
A weekend on the river with my canoe reveals a lot more than whether or not I am a good paddler.
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Hard Cheeses Prohibited: Comedy Flash Fiction by cam
Craig, Ralph and Jonesy are best friends––most days. On this day, cheese is the topic of discussion, a subject on which Craig is apparently an expert, especially when it comes to hard cheeses.
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The Message: Historical Flash Fiction by cam
May 4, 1970. A 4-day struggle between war protesters and the National Guard came to a bloody end at Kent State University.Sharon & her boyfriend try to go on with life but that may not be an option.
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Burj Khalifa, Jeddah Tower and the Tallest Buildings of the Future
Here are the Burj Khalifa, the current tallest building in the world and taller skyscrapers already being planned. Learn how high man is willing to build. Will it be possible to construct a skyscraper over a mile high? The article includes video of the ten tallest buildings between 2010 and 2050.
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The Visitations: Horror Short Story by cam, 3/3
A retired school teacher receives three visitations which were each the delivery of a morbid and horrifying object. When put together, they become the key to an even larger mystery. (Word count-)
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The Visitations: Horror Short Story by cam, 2/3
A retired school teacher receives three visitations which were each the delivery of a morbid and horrifying object. When put together, they become the key to an even larger mystery. (Word count-1249)
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The Visitations: Horror Short Story by cam 1/3
A retired school teacher receives three visitations which were each the delivery of a morbid and horrifying object. When put together, they become the key to an even larger mystery. (Word count-956)
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Literary Fiction and Genre Fiction, What's the Difference?
Someone recommends a book which you grab off Amazon and kick back with expectations of your socks being knocked off. Somehow your socks stay on and the book gathers dust. What is great literature?
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Contemptible Eight: Flash Fiction by cam
What happens when the child wakes up one morning and admits that their father doesn't walk on water, isn't Superman? In fact, they confess, he isn't even a nice guy? What happens? A heart breaks.
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The Paradox: Drama Flash Fiction by cam
When I come to town, rolling through like a stone that has been dislodged on the side of a hill, it may look like a random, bouncing stone, but there is purpose. (Word Count 1220)
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Gilligan's Island, Why I Loved It as a Child and Still Do at 60 Plus
The show took the nation by storm, just as the storm took those on the S.S. Minnow on a little longer than a 3 hour tour. Fifty-three years later, we still watch and laugh. Only great things endure.
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Breaking Social Norms: Comedy Flash Fiction
Ralph came over to Craig's house after work and told him about his date the night before. Most of Ralph's stories range from funny to unfortunate. This one was beyond unfortunate. Word Count 621.
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Unexpected Encounters: Flash Fiction by cam for Genna East's Writing Challenge
Mighty leaders in high places contemplate how by any and every means they will remain in place or take their place at the top of the global heap. But humility and sacrifice may be a better way.
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Fitting Room 101: Comedy Short Short Fiction
Ralph fails to follow even the basic rules of using a fitting room in a clothing store. For Ralph, when one thing goes wrong, everything goes wrong. (Word Count-658)
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Nurture: A Reflective Essay by cam
Caring for one's possessions, especially if those things are part of your life sustaining occupation, is important. But when relationships are the topic, nurturing is indispensible.
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Vivid Dreams on a Park Bench: Flash Fiction by cam
You know how you have a stretch when you can't sleep, so you walk to the park and stretch out on a bench to get some shut-eye? No? Well, this guy tried it, and it worked for him, sort of. Word Ct-649
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A Miner Mistake: Short Story
Three boys, adventurers at heart, set out on a day hike in the coal mining region of West Virginia. The decision to explore a mine leads to a chilling encounter and a narrow escape. (1526 words)
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Grammarly – Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation Correction for Your Online and Offline Writing
Grammarly is a product that makes suggestions for spelling and grammar errors and even does commas (punctuation). Learn how to download, install and use Grammarly both for online and offline writing.
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Potty Mouth: Comedy Short Short Fiction by cam
Ralph goes to the dentist and discovers a whole world of creepy crawly bacteria lurking, not only in his own mouth, but in the mouth of every woman he may kiss in the future. To kiss, or not to kiss?
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A Matter of Interest: A Short Story by cam
An old man spends his days shuffling around the city in search of the lost wealth of her citizens. For 30 years, he had persistently sought and found the lost coins, but for what purpose? (1260 words)
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Free Falling: Flash Fiction
Three were friends, two were lovers. When Steve was killed in a rock climbing incident, Edie set out to find out what had happened. Richie insisted the Sheriff was right, it was an accident. Was it?
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Hump Day: Flash Fiction by cam
Ted is leaving the workforce, and he has one more week, one more hump day until his retirement. Could there be anything worse than grinding your way through hump day, over and over again? Oh yes.
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The Ishi and the Witch: A Fantasy Short Story by Cam 1 of 3
Where a foot path once led through a woods from one boy's house to the house his best friend, a gate and a cobblestone cart path magically appeared. Billy made a choice that changed a world. (3 parts)
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The Ishi and the Witch: A Short Story of Fantasy by Cam 3 of 3
the Ishi and the humans carry out the plan to rid their world of the evil witch/queen. Billy and Orin must break into the castle to steal a critical element for the plan's success. Time is critical
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The Influence of Evangelicals on the 2016 Presidential Election
The votes of Evangelicals were one of the primary influences on the 2016 presidential election. Let's take a look at how this group became so important to this election and what this means for the future of American politics.
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Dust to Dust: A Short Story by cam
Charles and Foster ride a steam train across the US Great Plains on a desperate trip to California to find work. But drought, wind and Dust storms join forces to stop them and to destroy their hope.
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An Unholy Trinity: A Six Year Old's Perspective on Religion and World Events
Today's headline sent my mind back to yesterday, or several yesterdays, when I was six years old. To my mind, limited by inexperience and ignorance, three ruled the world, and they were evil.
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How the United States Will Elect The Next President in 2020 in Five Simple Steps
As we approach the 2020 presidential election, let's not forget how a president is elected. If we understand the process we will understand and accept the results. If we disagree with the process, we the people have the power to change it.
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The New York Times, Donald Trump, Stephen Bannon and Racism
Articles like this one in Monday's NY Times have one purpose and that is to create an illusion and to convince you and me that the illusion is real.
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The Rise of Eventide: Flash Fiction
After losing her parents to a horrible illness, the maiden, Eventide, faces harshness of people and challenges of nature as she seeks to keep the family farm and create a good life. Word Count 987
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An Ancient Evil: Short Story
Adam is in the midst of a 12 hr boring drive home. Rain has him pulled to the side of the highway. Boring becomes bizarre, but he finds himself strangely equipped to face a terrifying foe. Words 1672
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Should We Set Term Limits for Congress?
In his “Contract With the American Voter,” Trump promised to take steps to set term limits for members of the U. S. Congress. Could this be a positive move that would give power back to the people?
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The Horror Next Door: Halloween Flash Fiction by cam
Halloween, a babysitter, a little girl and a nighttime visitor. Are there any better ingredients for a good horror story?
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The Watchers: Short Story, Part Six
Three were chosen. Their task was to watch the cemetery and signal the vampire population should the fateful day come that would release a terror such as the world had never seen. (word count 1687)
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The Watchers: Short Story, Part Five
Three were chosen. Their task was to watch the cemetery and signal the vampire population should the fateful day come that would release a terror such as the world had never seen. (word count 1205)
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The Watchers: Short Story, Part Four
Three were chosen. Their task was to watch the cemetery and signal the vampire population should the fateful day come that would release a terror such as the world had never seen. (word count 1334)
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The Watchers: Short Story, Part Three
Three were chosen. Their task was to watch the cemetery and signal the vampire population should the fateful day come that would release a terror such as the world had never seen. (word count 1510)
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The Watchers: Short Story, Part Two
Three were chosen. Their task was to watch the cemetery and signal the vampire population should the fateful day come that would release a terror such as the world had never seen. (word count 1603)
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The Watchers: Fantasy/Vampire Short Story by cam, Part One
Three were chosen. Their task was to watch the cemetery and signal the vampire population should the fateful day come that would release a terror such as the world had never seen. (word count 1612)
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Open the Door: A Short Story by cam
Two lost loves cause Richard to seek emotional safety in isolation. Only his dog and his neighbor have a chance to help him become willing to open the door.
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5 Steps for Editing Mystery Flash Fiction Stories
The mystery genre has had a long history that has worked well in novels, novellas and short stories. Mystery flash fiction takes discipline to fit all the elements into the confines of 1,000 words.
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Sky Heist: Flash Fiction
Rance, a passenger on a high tech hydrogen airship, is also a PI. He meets two women transporting a valuable collection of jewelry to London. A thief is also aloft and it's up to Rance to nab him.
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Some Thoughts on The Hubbie Awards, 2016
If you are like me, you had been anticipating changes to the Hubbie Awards but were disappointed when those changes were unveiled. What has been your response. Here's mine and I welcome your comments.
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Superman I Will Be
A man seeks the high of all highs, the feeling that he is finally in control of his own life and the lives of those who have, up to the present, controlled him. Someday, he will be Superman.
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Mole on a Mountain: Action/Adventure Short Story by cam
Tony is a DEA mole in a Mexican drug cartel. On his first drug run, a shipment of meth, he encounters two kinds of trouble, airplane trouble over the mountains and his arch enemy as his new boss.
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Defining Moment: Poetry
A defining moment. A gambler might call it betting the whole stack. It is a moment of decision, after which nothing will ever be the same.
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Lake of Fire: Flash Fiction by cam
A group of wildland firefighters known as smokejumpers, parachute into a canyon and spot two hikers trapped by fire on the shore of a lake. Craig volunteers to hike to them and oversee their rescue.
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Flash Fiction: "Jacomo," Read on Video by the Author
Dave's life may end at any moment by a bullet from the gun of an angry, former coworker. Dave thinks of his wife, his daughter and is determined to live. Many have already died. Who will be next?
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Family Reunion: Flash Fiction by cam
A fun flash fiction about Wendell who discovers a man camping on his lawn. Things get out of hand with more visitors pulling onto his property. Local law enforcement isn't much help. Read by author.
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Mommy-Girl: Horror Flash Fiction by Cam
A couple adopts a baby, but after only a few weeks, the biological mother shows up and demands the return of her child. But there's a tragic twist to this story that already has a tragic beginning.
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Adriana on the Slide: A Horror Short Story
Adriana was on the run. From what and to where she didn't know, but waiting around for the next round of assault by an evil specter was out of the question. (word count-1334)
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Seven Years Bad Luck: A Short Story
Chris Mills Three boys led their ponies out of the red barn, jumped on and rode bareback down the lane toward the central Indiana, county road. “How much money you guys got?” said twelve year old Tom to the brothers. “I got a quarter,”...
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Master Minded: A Short Story
I was seventeen when you took me from my family, crept into my bedroom where stuffed animals and family photos told the story of a happy childhood. But today is the day of my revenge.
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Love Letters From Stefano: Flash Fiction by cam
Wayne goes on a tour of one of the oldest houses in the city. The others in the group see the building and furniture, but Wayne and a little girl named Melody see the lives lived and lost there.
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The Long Way Home: SciFi Flash Fiction by cam
Five years after being abducted from Earth and taken to Orbis, Christy has accepted the place and people, but Mark still longs for home. Mark discovers a way to escape, but can he go without her?