My Short Short for the Day

The glittery sparkles glinted off the tin lid. Kayla closed the lid carefully locking it. What should she do? She can't keep this with her, just in case. She snapped out of her thoughts at the sound of heavy footsteps. She tucked the tin box into her purse and was zipping it closed as the scent of stale cologne drifted in. She looked up to see an older man standing at the next table, hand on the chair, staring down at her. She gave him a quick smile then looked down pretending to focus on her lunch.

After several minutes, she tossed her napkin on the table and stood. She gave a quick glance at the man who was now seated but facing her table. Their eyes met and she turned abruptly and left. She hurried to her car and drove away. Where to go? Where to go? Ah, Mick.

She drove to Mick's house and knocked several times. No answer. She called his cell but it went straight to voicemail. Where are you Mick? She walked around and peeked into the windows. It appeared empty. She went to the back door and lifted the edge of the mat. She pulled out the key and opened the door.

“Mick? You here?” Kayla stepped in and closed the door. “Mick!”

It was silent. She walked through the kitchen and into the living room. Nothing seemed out of place. She climbed the stairs and stopped at the door to the bedroom. That's odd. Kayla thought. Why would the door be closed. She turned the knob and pushed.

“Mick?” She rushed to him. Her fingers fumbled with the knotted rope. Mick's eyes got wide and he was mumbling loudly and shaking his head. Kayla frowned. “What is is Mick?”

She barely got the words out when everything went dark.

My Short Short for the Day

Milly ran her fingers ever so lightly over the fabric. It was so silky and soft, she could hardly believe it would soon be her new gown. Her very first Ball gown. She closed her eyes letting the fantasy form in her mind as she twirled around. Then Doug walked in, took her hand and twirled her again before pulling her into a waltz. They glided across the room, feet barely touching the floor as they danced. Milly laughed with delight and hugged her dear friend tight before letting go to look at the fabric again.

“You'll look lovely.” Doug said smiling proudly at his favorite student.

“Thank you.” Milly gave him a quick smile before turning back to the fabric. “It's so exciting. My first Ball, my first fancy gown, my first dance.”

“And you'll be the most beautiful, young lady there.” Doug said. “All the young men will line up to have a turn dancing with you.”

“I just hope I don't step on any toes.” Milly blushed a little.

“You'll be fine.” Doug patted her arm. “Remember to keep your chin up.”

Milly closed her eyes to imagine the glamorous ballroom one more time. Then she hurried upstairs and began to prepare for the most exciting night of her life. Hopefully just the first of many. She thought.

My Short Short for the Day

What kind of day would today be? Al thought. He didn't have long to wait. He walked right into a wall and promptly knocked himself unconscious. The team worked quickly, bundling Al up into a sheet and stuffing him inside an unmarked, black van. The driver left swiftly but with control enough not to let the tires squeal. People continued on their way without so much as a glance in Al's direction.
 
Slowly Al woke up. He felt groggy and his tongue felt like the size of a slab of beef. Mmm. A steak sounded so good right now. With that thought, Al's mind cleared and he tried to sit up. He couldn't move so he quickly looked to see what was restraining him. His eyes widened as he saw the strange, green leathery skin. What was it? Was something covering his arms? Maybe some strange blanket. Then he looked around the room. It was bright and white. Almost like a hospital room, but the smell was all wrong. There was an accident. He remembered he ran into something. Hit his head or something. He couldn't remember what happened. Where was he?

“Hey! Anyone here?” His voice croaked. He tried to swallow but his throat was so dry he couldn't muster up any saliva to moisten it.

The door opened and an older gentleman walked in. He was dressed like a doctor so Al immediately felt reassured.

“How are you feeling?” The doctor had a kind voice.

“I...I don't know. I feel kind of funny.” Al said. His voice still had a croaky sound to it but at least he recognized it this time.

“That's to be expected Al.” The doctor touched the green leathery fabric.

“What sort of blanket is that? Strange looking.” Al said.

“Oh, it's not a blanket Al. You've had quite an ordeal. I think it's best you get some rest.” The doctor pulled out a needle and filled it with some liquid.

“Wait, no. What's going on?” Al's heart started to race.

“It's ok Al. Everything will be fine.” The doctor injected the fluid into Al's arm.

Al started to feel dizzy and his eyes grew heavy. “No. Please, what is happening?”

Al passed out while the doctor watched. A nurse entered and took her place next to the doctor.

“Keep a close eye on Al. He may not be happy when he wakes up.” The doctor patted the green leathery arm gently before leaving.

The nurse took a seat by the back wall to watch over the patient.

Al slept.

My Short Short for the Day

Deedee stepped into the beam of light and closed her eyes. She couldn't help it. The ride always freaked her out so she handled it much better when she couldn't see everything whizzing by at a ridiculous speed. She started to feel dizzy and held her breath hoping to avoid throwing up. Finally the wind settled around her and she was on solid ground again. She opened her eyes and took several deep breaths until the nausea disappeared. She walked slowly toward the old brick building. It was a typical spring day. Her sweater was perfect for keeping the slight chill at bay and it was colorful, which always cheered her up when she had to come to the Hall. There was nothing unusual about her presence being requested at the Hall. Twice a year all students had to report to the headmasters. But for some reason she had a sense of concern. She hadn't done anything wrong so it wasn't about punishment. Her grades were excellent and her behavior appropriate. She got along very well with her teachers and classmates so it couldn't be a complaint. It was the right time of year for her review, but still...something just felt...not right.

She reached the building and pulled the heavy door open. Then walked slowly down the hallway listening to her shoes echo in the emptiness. She climbed the stairs up to the second floor and followed the hallway to the last door on the right. Outside she paused and took a calming breath. Straightening her shoulders she turned the knob and pushed open the door.

“Mom? What are you doing here?” She quickly cut herself off and blushed before regaining her composure.

The head of languages gestured for her to take a seat and she nodded. Once settled in her seat she stared straight ahead at the table where all the headmasters sat.

“Thank you Deedee for joining us.” Celee said. “Now let's begin the review.”

My Short Short for the Day

The ground began to shake and rumble. The noise was deafening and the air was filled with static. What was happening. Madi thought as she looked up at her mother. What she saw on her mother's face frightened her even more. She'd never seen her mother terrified before. She'd always been so calm and confident. But now...

“Mother, come on. We must go.” Madi yelled tugging her mother's hand.

Her mother stood there paralyzed and that only heightened Madi's fear. She had to help, though. No time to think. Madi yanked her mother's hand dragging her away from the rumblings. Her mother followed obediently so Madi broke into a run. They raced across the shaky ground, jumping over cracks that began to spread. Madi kept running, not knowing where to go, just knowing she had to keep moving.

The other villagers were running around in circles, screaming and crying.

“Come with us!” Madi yelled at everyone she passed but didn't dare look back.

She ran never loosening her grip on her mother's hand. They ran until they collapsed. It took several minutes for Madi to catch her breath. When she did, she waited to see if there were any rumblings. Nothing. They were safe now. At least long enough for a rest.

“Madi.” Her mother's voice was a small whisper. “Thank you. You saved us.”

Madi stepped into her mother's arms and they hugged tightly, letting the tears flow as the fear subsided.

My Short Short for the Day

1 – 2 – 3

1 – 2 – 3

1 – 2 – 3

Erica couldn't take much more. Her feet hurt, her calves hurt, her back hurt, her arm hurt. Who's foolish idea was it anyway to enroll in ballet in the first place. Argh! As a little girl it sounded so fun and watching the beautiful ballerinas dance so gracefully across the stage...ahh, that was the world to her. But now, 10 years later, and at this precise moment, the joy was gone. Everything hurt all the time and no matter how many times she practiced, it just never was good enough. She had been passed over so many times for the best parts in the show and now she felt like quitting. What was the point anymore.

“Erica, please show me what you've been working on.”

Erica blushed as she focused on the teacher and positioned herself. The music began to play and Erica slipped into the dance. She leaped, twirled and swayed through her routine, feeling lighter than air. Her heart raced with the joy of the movement. The aches and pains disappeared with the thrill of the dance. She lost herself in the moment and gracefully bowed at the finale.

“Lovely Erica. Simply lovely.”

Erica nodded and took her place along the wall. That's why I'm still here. She smiled to herself and enjoyed watching the others dance.

My Short Short for the Day

Melanie slowly strolled down the sidewalk, her smile lighting up her face. The doctor confirmed it. She had a feeling but wanted the doctor to confirm before she told Todd. She had never known how beautiful life could be until she met Todd. He was always so kind and thoughtful, leaving her little notes and bringing her flowers just because. He was a hard worker, honest and loyal. His friends were great and her friends thought he was perfect.

They had moved in together almost a year ago and had talked about marriage and kids several times. They agreed on wanting both and soon. She couldn't have been happier. Then she was late. It didn't mean too much at first but after a few weeks, she knew. She could feel it. That's when she made an appointment. The doctor gave her the good news and it was all she could do to not shout it out to the whole world.

Melanie paused at the gate. She took a deep breath and let it out, trying to force the grin off her face but failing miserably. Oh, well. No point in trying to hide it. She wouldn't be able to hold it in once she saw Todd.

She let herself in and closed the door. Todd was working from home today. She hadn't told him she'd be home early because then she'd have to tell him about the appointment. She climbed the stairs and headed toward the office but paused. There was a sound coming from the bedroom. Maybe Todd was taking a shower or something.

Melanie's smile didn't waver as she opened the door. Then her heart stopped. She managed a yelp of surprise causing Todd to jerk his head toward the doorway.

“Mel, what are you doing home?” Todd blanched as he clumsily grabbed for his pants. The woman in bed giggled as he stumbled and fell.

Melanie turned away in grief.

My Short Short for the Day

 

“Are you sure?” The police officer had his doubts.

“Yes, yes I remember. It was a four leaf clover. A...a shamrock. That's it.” Mira shot out of her seat in her excitement.

“And why were you there? It says here that you live several blocks away.” He sure didn't like citizens taking things into their own hands. It usually ended badly.

“Well, you see. I was walking my usual route. I like to walk every evening, for exercise, you know. And this man, sort of shifty like, brushed past me. I was annoyed and almost told him so, but there was something about him.” Mira's thoughts drifted.

“Something? What something?” The officer sat up straighter. His mother had taught him that a woman's intuition was always worth listening to.

“Oh, sorry. I got this weird sort of feeling. So I followed him.” Mira held up her hand as the officer opened his mouth. “I know. I should have called the police but I didn't have anything to tell them and I was afraid I would lose him if I stopped. So I followed him.”

The officer leaned in and nodded.

“Anyway, he hurried down the sidewalk and looked around then darted down a dark alley. I had to run to catch up. I thought I had lost him then there was moonlight. He walked right into it climbing the stairs to the second floor. I stayed close to the bushes and watched as he entered that door. The one with the shamrock.” Mira lowered her voice. “There's something not right there. Please check it out.”

The office stood and straightened his belt. He rubbed his chin and took a deep breath. “Ok. I'll drive by. But that's all I can promise.”

“Oh, thank you Billy. You're mother would be so proud of what a fine young man you've become.” Mira patted his hand, smiling warmly.

“Thank you Mrs. Welton. Let me give you a ride.” Billy tapped his partner's shoulder and gestured. “We've got a suspicious activity to check out.”

My Short Short for the Day

“Look Sarah! I got her! I did it!” Evy raced to her sister shaking the photo.

“Oh, yeah? Let me see that.” Sarah yanked the photo from her sister's hand and scrutinized the image. “Naw. I don't think that's her.” She tossed it carelessly to the ground and walked away.

“But...but...but...” Evy quickly picked up the photo and carefully brushed it off. “It is her. I swear it.” She stared at the photo for a long time. “I just know it was her.”

“Girls, time for dinner.” Mom yelled out the window.

Sarah raced past Evy snickering. Evy walked slowly inside and placed the photo carefully under her pillow before washing her hands. She sat quietly through dinner and then took a quick bath then off to bed.

“Ok, which books do you want tonight?” Mom asked looking at the many books on the shelf.

“None.” Evy said crawling into bed.

“What?” Mom sat on the bed and touched Evy's forehead. “Are you feeling ok, Sweetie?”

“Yeah. It's just...” Evy pulled the photo out.

“What's this?” Mom gently took the photo and looked at it.

“It's a fairy. She was out in the yard this morning talking to the flowers. I took her picture to prove it but Sarah says I'm wrong.” Evy pouted.

“Well, do you believe that is the fairy?” Mom handed the photo back to Evy.

“Yes. I know it's her.” Evy said forcefully.

“Then I believe you.” Mom said with a smile. “And you should believe you, too.”

“Thanks Mom!” Evy said giving her a big hug. “How about the Fairy Princess returns?”

“Good choice.” Mom replied settling in next to Evy and opening her favorite book.

My Short Short for the Day

This is a photo my Mom took while out on one of her hiking adventures. I tried to think of a poem or story or something to go along with it but nothing seemed good enough. I just think this is a really cool picture.

My Short Short for the Day

Eager to make a good impression, Alli hurried to the living room. She settled down on the chair and placed her hands delicately in her lap. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. Now she was calm and let her serene smile spread across her face. Edgar wasn't concerned about impressions. He strolled into the room a full 5 minutes after Alli and walked from here to there for several more minutes before flopping onto the couch and sprawling over the arm. Alli's smile didn't waver even as the disapproval shot from her eyes. Edgar grinned.

Within seconds there was a knock on the door. Edgar bellowed. “Come in!”

The door opened slowly. Alli tried to keep the smile on her face but it was taking so long for someone to come in. Even Edgar sat up staring at the door with a hint of concern.

Finally a large, yellow hand reached through and instantly Alli was on her feet, chanting a spell. Edgar lunged to the side and rolled to get a straight on aim at the being. He fired just as Alli's spell burst flames at it.

The yellow hand hovered for a moment then curled back in upon itself and withdrew. A screech echoed through the air as the presence dissipated.

Alli and Edgar remained poised and ready for several minutes before allowing themselves to breath.

“Well that was a new one.” Edgar said with a heave of breath.

“It won't be the last.” Alli said shaking her head. “What was that thing?”

Edgar shrugged and sprawled back on the couch. “I'm hungry. What's there to eat?”

Alli shook her head and smiled.

My Short Short for the Day

“Ok soldiers, keep it together. We can do this.”

“Oh, no Sarge, look! It's another shadow!”

“Hurry soldiers. Move. Move. Move!”

“Look Mommy! Worms! Can I help them?” The little boy toddled towards the scattered worms.

“Sure, I've got sanitizer. Just be gentle with them.” Mom pulled out her phone to check her emails.

“Don't worry little wormies. I'll save you.” The boy gently lifted each worm and carefully laid it in the grass away from the sidewalk. “All done Mommy.”

“Good job, Honey. Now they'll all be safe.” Mom took the boy's hand and they continued on their way.”

“I don't know how much longer I can take this, Sarge.”

“We have to keep going. No matter the odds. No matter how many times we get moved, we have to push forward. The others are depending on us.”

“But this is the 6^th time we've been taken back to the starting point.”

“I know soldier, but we can't give up now. Soldiers! Line up and head'em out!

With a heavy sigh, the worms began their journey toward the sidewalk...again.

My Short Short for the Day

Oscar twitched his nose, sniffing the air for any signs of danger. Finding none, he hopped forward searching the area, twitching his nose and shaking his whiskers. His investigations turned up several potential napping areas, a couple hiding spots...should the need arise, and a few places for further searching.

“Oscar? Come here boy.” Lilly called to her latest member of the household. “Dinner time.”

Oscar hopped quickly to the kitchen. It hadn't taken long for him to learn where the yummy treats were provided. He munched the lettuce and carrots as fast as his little paws could push them into his mouth. He'd never had it so good. After years living in a tiny cage in the store, Lilly came along and took one look at him, buying him on the spot. Now he had the run of the whole house. A cushy bed, plenty of fresh water and all the veggies his tummy could hold.

“There you are.” Lilly gently picked up the bunny and stroked his soft fur. “What a good boy you are. I hope you've settled in here.”

Oscar all but purred at the kindness and attention. Could life get any better than this? If bunnies could smile, then Oscar's face was doing just that as he snuggled into Lilly's shoulder and closed his eyes.

My Short Short for the Day

“Daddy! Daddy! I just knew you'd come.” Cindy ran to her father hugging him tight and beaming brighter than the sun.

“Of course Honey! I promised you, didn't I.” He picked her up and tossed her in the air until she giggled uncontrollably.

“Mommy! Mommy! He came! He came! I told you!” Cindy raced to the back room.

“Oh, Honey. I know you wished...” Kathy stopped short when she saw him. “Oh, Jim? Is it...”

He smiled that easy grin. She hurried into his arms and held him tight struggling to hold back the tears. Cindy hugged them both. “Group hug!” She cheered.

They laughed and played talked for several hours when Jim stood. His smile was still there but a sadness filled his eyes. “It's time to go.”

“Where are we going Daddy?” Cindy asked standing up and taking hold of his hand.

“No, not we. I have to go...alone.” Jim ruffled her hair and kissed her forehead.

“But, so soon?” Kathy reached out to him and clasped his hands.

He pulled her into his arms and this time she didn't hold back the tears. “Not now. Not again. Please.”

Cindy grabbed hold of her mom and dad's hands. “Don't go Daddy! Please!”

He hugged Kathy and kissed her tenderly then knelt down and hugged Cindy. “I love you Sweetie. Never forget that.”

He stepped away and climbed the steps to the door. He pulled it open and the light that flooded through was so thick and bright nothing could be seen beyond.

Cindy watched with tears rolling down her cheeks. Kathy was holding her in her arms letting her tears flow as well. “Bye Daddy! I love you!” Cindy whispered.

Jim paused and looked back at his family and smiled. Then turned and walked into the light.

My Short Short for the Day

It was a sunny day, not too warm and not too cold. Just the right temperature, well, if you were having a good day. But Andy was not. The weather was immaterial as Andy scuffed his feet along. He did not want to be up at this hour, let alone walking down the sidewalk in this particular direction. There was no way he could avoid it, he had to go. He promised. What he wouldn't give for a sudden thunderstorm with hail so heavy that it was dangerous to go outside. Or lightning flashing so close by that anyone would run the risk of being struck if they stepped outdoors. Or what if strange beings from another planet picked today of all days to visit Earth. Not mean aliens because he wasn't prepared for battle, but friendly aliens. Or...or...hm? Well, something big but not where people got hurt or killed or anything like that. There was enough death as it was, without nature or aliens adding to it.

Andy sighed and stuffed his hands in his pockets. His shoulders were hunched and his eyes looking down. He knew where he was going and just didn't want to go. He usually loved visiting his mom and helping out around the house. They had always gotten along but recently he had taken on a bigger role. She depended on him and that's why he agreed to help her today.

“I was beginning to wonder about you Andy.” His mom said with a warm smile. “Come in, come in. I've got fresh ice tea and donuts.”

“Jelly?” Andy perked up for moment.

“Of course.” She lead him into the kitchen and poured a tall glass of ice tea and set it by the plate full of jelly donuts.

“Awesome!” Andy was grabbing a donut even as he sat down. “Thanks!”

After Andy had polished off half the tea and 2 donuts, his mother cleared her throat softly. “I know you are not looking forward to this. And I know how hard it is, but I really appreciate your help. I...I just couldn't do it myself. Too many memories.”

“It's ok Mom.” Andy patted his mom's hand. “I'd better get to it.”

“Anything of your dad's that you'd like to keep. Go ahead.” His mom dabbed at her eyes with a tissue.

“Thanks Mom. Don't worry. I'll take care of it.” Andy gave his mom a quick hug then grabbed another donut and headed upstairs. “Last chance aliens...or mother nature. Anyone? Bummer.”

Andy trudged upstairs and down the hall. He walked into his father's office and took a deep breath. “Still smells like you.” He walked over to the desk and sat in the chair looking around the room at all the memories. “I miss you Dad.”

My Short Short for the Day

Sandy hurried after her father. He took such big steps it was hard for her to keep up with her small legs but she didn't back down from the challenge. She walked as fast as she could, puffing out her breath and concentrating on closing the gap.
 
“Come on Honey!” Dad called over his shoulder.

“Coming Daddy!” Sandy said with a burst of energy. So close. Maybe if she stretched out her hand. She reached but couldn't quite make it. Then his hand swung away from her. “Ratso!” She mumbled.

“What's that Honey?” Dad looked back at her and smiled at the determination on her sweet, little face.

She scrunched up her face and made a last lunge for Daddy's hand and grabbed it. She stumbled but he easily caught her into a great big hug. She giggled wildly and hugged him as tight as her little arms could squeeze. He twirled her around a few times before feeling a bit dizzy.
 
“I did it!” Sandy squealed giving Daddy a big kiss on his forehead.

My Short Short for the Day

Sy looked into the glass orb. She squinted, then opened her eyes wide, trying to make sense of the blurriness.

“What do you see?” Ev was so patient but also expectant. You couldn't ever wait him out with silence.

“Um, well, a...a plant pot maybe. And some leaves of some sort.” Sy strained to see more then abruptly straightened with a huff. “I don't know, it's just too blurry.”

“Try again. Focus. Don't force your eyes to see. Just focus and let the images form.” Ev folded his hands onto his lap and shifted ever so slightly. His face was serene and pleasantly wrinkled.

Sy stared at him for several minutes but he didn't flinch or budge or say any more. With a loud and heavy sigh she turned to face the orb again. She stared for several minutes then took a deep breath and closed her eyes. She opened them again on the exhale and relaxed. She looked at the orb without trying to make something appear. She just stared and soon the images were shifting and changing, forming new things from the blur. Her heart thumped in her chest but she kept her eyes glued to the orb trying not to blink.

“Uh, I think I see something. It's...it's...” Sy held her breath as the image became clearer. “It's...my mother.” The woman was clear for a moment smiling at Sy, then a sudden wave crashed down on her sweeping her away into the darkness.

“This gift is not an easy one. Only the strongest souls can survive it. Your purity of heart will help you bear this weight.” Ev stood, rested his gnarled hand on Sy's shoulder. “And strength of love will help you use it well.”

My Short Short for the Day

Maggie stretched her arms high above her head then behind her back. The joints popped and crackled a bit. She shrugged her shoulders and shook her arms out. “Ok, I'm ready.”

“Wait Mags, just a second.” Alec yelled rushing up behind her.

Maggie lowered her hands and turned to look at her friend. “What is it Alec?”

“I've a note for you. From Master Scog.” Alec handed off the note then leaned forward with his hands on his knees to catch his breath.

“Thank you.” Maggie opened the note and read it furrowing her brow.

“Is everything alright?” Alec's face mirrored her concern.

“Yes, yes. Um, I have to go.” Maggie hurried off the way Alec had come.

“Wait! Mags, I'll go with you.” Alec turned to follow and tripped over a stone. “Mags! Mags!”

Maggie hurried off without a backward glance. She rushed down the path and into the building. There were other students milling around but she didn't take notice. She arrived at the Master's door and paused. Taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly, she knocked.

“Come in Maggie.” The voice was solid, strong and kind.

“I came as soon as I could.” Maggie said closing the door gently behind her.

“Yes, I know. Thank you.” Master Scog walked around from behind his desk. He paused at the window and looked outside for several moments. When he turned back around his eyes were glistening.

Maggie's heart began to race. This was so unlike Master Scog. She didn't know what to do or say so she kept very still.

“It's time dear.” Master Scog placed his hand on her shoulder and looked her in the eyes. “I'm afraid it's time.”

Maggie walked slowly back to her room. Carefully she slid the worn and faded picture out of her pocket. She had looked at this picture so many times over the years but still she couldn't understand what it meant. Master Scog believed in her but did she believe in herself? It may be time but was she ready for what was to come? Would she ever be ready?

My Short Short for the Day

Harold staggered step by ragged step. The sun burned down upon his bald, bare head. The sweat dribbled down his back and face and chest splashing onto the ground. How much farther could he go? He desperately needed water but couldn't find any. Thirsty! So thirsty! His throat was raw and his tongue felt like one of his wife's overcooked, shriveled around the edges chicken breasts. Oh, what he wouldn't give for a tall, cold, sparkling clear glass of water with frosty ice cubes floating lazily inside. He tried to smack his crusty, dried lips but they wouldn't budge. Water! I need water! His mind cried out since his voice had long since ceased to work.

Must keep moving. He willed his legs to move one step at a time. Just have to keep going. There has to be some water soon. Where could it be? He squinted, straining his sun-dried eyes out in the distance. All he could see was the heat shimmering off the ground. So hot! Maybe I can use my shirt to cover my head. Maybe that will keep me cooler. Harold reached down to pull his shirt up over his head. It was half way there when an arm grabbed him.

“Harold. Stop right there.” Martha pulled his arm back down. “For heavens sake. What do you think you're doing?”

“It's hot woman. I'm dying!” Harold whined.

“Seriously?! It's only 80 degrees.” Martha shook her head. “I think you'll survive.

My Short Short for the Day

“Heel Whiskers! Heel!” Melody yelled.

“Honey, Whiskers is a little too young to understand what you're saying. She needs some more time to learn all these new words.” Erin gently touched her daughter's shoulder. “If you use a calm voice then Whiskers will listen to you better.”

“Ok Mommy. I'll try.” Melody took a deep breath and let it out slowly, then knelt down next to her mini pig and petted its head softly. “Ok, Whiskers. You need to walk next to me. It's not safe for you to walk ahead because I can't protect you that way. You also can't ever go out of my sight. That would be very naughty. Do you understand? Good girl.” Melody hugged her little pig who snuffled her cheek.

They walked along and Whiskers tried her best to stay near Melody but there were just way too many new things to see and smell that sometimes she forgot and pulled ahead.

“Whiskers.” Melody spoke firmly and Whiskers would immediately stop and look back at her. “That's my girl. Now walk with me. Don't tug the leash please.”

“That's very good Melody. I think Whiskers is improving already.” Erin said.

“Thanks mom.” Melody beamed. “I told you a mini pig would be the best pet ever!”