Cold raindrops landed on his freckles and trickled into the network of rivers along his skin. An army of tiny knives stabbed his legs. He pushed deep breaths through his lungs and kept his stride. He counted out thuds punctuated by thick, muddy splooshes on the leaf-smothered trail. Suddenly, warmth flooded his veins as he harnessed the wind.
“Mr. Wallace?” The orderly repeated.
Tom Wallace was sitting up in bed clutching the cat spray bottle, face soaked, eyes closed and grinning like a nut. Although we’re not supposed to use that term, Larry reminded himself.
“Time for your medication.” Larry placed the early edition in front of him. The newspaper lay flat on the sheet in the space where Tom’s legs used to be. “Senior Fozzy needs his spray bottle back.”
“Give him my meds,” Tom still clutched the plastic bottle. “I’ll keep this.”
Larry shook his head. What a nut.
Terrific opening image Danica, network of rivers, really like that visual!
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Thanks, Geoff! The image was very clear as I was writing so I’m glad that it made it to the page. Or screen. 🙂
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Big Smile … oh … so well written! 🙂
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Thank you, G! I’m delighted that you smiled. 🙂
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Oh ow you drew me in and then made me laugh, thanks
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That makes me happy, Neil. Thank you. 🙂
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I know a couple of people whose lives would be greatly improved if they replaced their meds with a spray bottle. It’s not like my hair will get soaked if they spray me.
Thanks for this, Danica. It’s impressive how you manage to surprise your readers multiple times in such a short essay.
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We are a very well-medicated society, aren’t we? Haha, spraying is probably more pleasant without hair.
Thank you, Rich. I was aiming for both surprises and a short delivery so your kind words are appreciated!
I hope you’ve returned from your (much-deserved) blog break.
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Well-medicated or over-medicated? I think I know the answer to my own question.
My blog break should be coming to a close soon. It’s gone on much longer than expected due to unforeseen circumstances and I can’t wait to get back to my normal conversations on music & more. Hope all is well in your world. Have a great weekend.
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Yay! 🙂 We’ll all be thrilled to have you back. It has been a long time and I hope your unforeseen circumstances are okay.
Well, I’d lean toward over-medicated. Speaking of which, I have a coffee so I’m doing fine.
Thanks so much for staying in touch over your blog break. I’m always happy to see a message from you. Have yourself a lovely day, Rich.
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Oh, this is a great “vignette,” Danica. Excellent characterization and unique personality. You sound like someone who experienced wacky people before. 🙂
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Robin, you made me laugh out loud! It could be that I’ve experienced wacky people! 🙂 I’m not sure where Tom Wallace came from…maybe it’s all a blur.
Thank you for the wonderful compliment. I always appreciate your feedback!
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You really have been creating interesting stories, Danica. So happy to get you laughing. Made me smile to know this reaction to my comment! 🙂
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Thank you, Robin! 🙂
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good job. i love the way you used the word nut. The context gave it a different shade of meaning.
and
I’ve nominated you for the “Be Thankful” Challenge. If you accept you will find the details here:
http://robertmgoldstein.com/2015/10/16/the-be-thankful-challenge/
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Thanks so much, Rob! Yes the context was affectionate and with admiration.
What a wonderful challenge! Thank you for the nomination which I happily accept. I’ll give this the time and attention it deserves and post soon.
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Interesting twists as I went from cringing to a smile. … Hi Danica … just trying to get myself back to visiting!
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Hi Frank! Welcome back! It’s great to see you. Thanks, I’m glad that you like this one.
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Loved to make thick, muddy splooshes back in th day when i was, oh, that high.
For some reason, your last few Posts have not come up on my Reader!
Hate to b deprived of th Beautiful Life – “Brad shook his head”
Cheers!
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That was so much fun, wasn’t it? I don’t know what’s up with the Reader but I’m delighted that you stopped by. 🙂
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