“Which floor?” The weatherworn man asks, leaning over his metal walker.
“Nineteen.” I reply, as though we hadn’t had this exchange a hundred times. He punches nineteen for me then eighteen for him.
“How was your day?”
“Showed a 10-year-old how I use software so he can make improvements. Then I picked up a ghost.” I hold up the plastic Halloween-themed ghost. Possibly also made by a 10-year-old.
“I went to the store earlier to get playing cards but forgot.” He says, mostly to the ghost. “Looked at automotive stuff and ended up getting Dr. Pepper and a jumbo box of Halloween candy.”
“That’s a risk of store-visiting. If I need something I’ve learned to get it first and then look at other things.”
“I’ll try that next time.”
“I like your socks.” We both look at his electric blue and canary yellow polka dotted socks pulled over his pant legs.
“I figured I might as well engage with life today.”
“We might as well do that while we’re here,” I agree.
The elevator doors open and I wish him a good evening. Drinking with whoever stops by until he passes out, although maybe not over cards tonight.
I nail my ghost to the door with surprisingly satisfying hammer thwacks. Might as well engage with life, baby.
.
Wonderful!!!! Thank you for my morning smile. (ps. I am out of the hospital from my heart attack and I am resting with the Ellie dog) g
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Thanks very much, G! I’m happy that you smiled.
What a relief that you’re recovering and resting. I’m glad that the Ellie dog is looking after you.
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Ha! This made me smile… I picked up some of the Halloween goods when I visited the store the other day for some essentials. Forgot some of the essentials!
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I’m delighted that you smiled.
It’s easy to get distracted with Halloween goods everywhere. I’ve forgotten essentials even without Halloween distractions. Essentials first. 🙂
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Heartwarming, I always feel good after talking to an elder who looks lonely. Hope you’re healthy and happy.
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Thanks M! He was so quotable that I had to share this story.
Things are fine with me… how are you doing?
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Great! Knee Replacement in two weeks. Send me some warm fuzzy stories this this one. Surgery is 14th and spend two nights in hospital. Yuck!!!!! Take it easy. M
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Warm fuzzies sent! It will be great when it’s over… you’ll be like the bionic woman. 🙂
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😉
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That “jumbo box of Halloween candy” brought me here
Are u writing a ghost story for tomorrow night?
Cheers!
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Do you have a jumbo box of Halloween candy? There’s still time!
That’s a great idea and I’m sad to report that I’m not writing a ghost story… I hope you are!
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Already started on my jumbo box!
I’m sad to hear u won’t b writing one
Yes! I’m putting th final touches to a VERY creepy piece!
Something Well Wicked This Way Comes 🙂
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Glad you’ve got supplies!
I’m looking forward to your very creepy piece! Ah yes, I should have been better prepared….
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Yes, prepare to read (but best to keep th light ON! 8-0 )
As we move into Winter, I’ll b studying how th best ghost stories work – my Monastikon novel drafts work best at this time of year, so u should see th quantity – and quality – of my medieval fiction improve!
Thank u SO MUCH for your support, my friend!
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I love it already!
Studying how the best ghost stories work — so interesting that you mention it… I’m reflecting on what makes stories work best and why some have mass appeal.
Your medieval fiction is wonderful and I’m happy that more quantity is on the horizon.
It’s absolutely my pleasure and thank you for the stories!
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I’ll b interested to study your views on th stories that work best.
Now that Summer is out of th way, th medieval fiction should be a lot easier to accomplish (I want to press on, even tho u are my only reader!)
U’re welcome, and thank YOU!
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Let me know what you discover and I’ll do the same.
Fall is a great time to write. I remember readers coming up to you when they recognized your avatar….
You’re awesome. 🙂
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I aim to share my findings in my Posts.
Yes, can’t forget such a cute and courageous avatar
No, YOU r awesome – u have th Stats to prove it!
Bless u
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That’s good news!
Your avatar is among the best I’ve seen.
You’re too kind and generous, my friend. Thank you. 🙂
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Great ending, Danica! I like how you built this eccentric elderly man with cool details. Smiles, Robin
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Thanks so much, Robin! I’m delighted you liked it. 🙂
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