Photo © 2011 Gerald Pereira CC BY 2.0
Something a little different today. I signed up to take part in Tony Noland’s Great April Fool’s Day #FridayFlash Blogswap. Tony paired me up with Danielle La Paglia, who has in gracious silence endured my haphazard attempt at keeping to a deadline.
(Oy. Just be thankful you’re not my publisher.)
Danielle and I both wrote a story around the same prompt. I’m posting hers here, and she’s posting my story over on her blog. Tony gave us the following prompt to inspire our stories: “three free tickets to a movie.”
-TimK
Substitute
Sandy fingered the tickets in her coat pocket, sliding their slick backs together as she stared at the house. It had seemed like such a good idea when she’d stopped by the theater two days ago, but the thin slips of paper felt inadequate and meaningless now. What good were three free tickets when they’d lost so much? She thought of putting the car in drive and heading home, but John stepped onto the porch and waived. There was no turning back.
A gust of wind whipped her hair across her face as she stepped from the car. The icy blast beat against her exposed cheeks and sent a flurry of snowflakes into the car before she could slam the door shut. Even the wind knew it was a bad idea.
She ran to the shelter of the porch, hoping to sneak a quick hug from John, a small shot of courage and comfort to push her through. But Maddy shoved the screen door open and ushered her siblings onto the porch. Sorrow hung on them like a heavy cloak, paling their skin, darkening the shadows in their eyes. Even seven-year-old Emily had lost her sparkle. The bright pink smile she used to wear was a soft peach line tugged down at the corners.
Sandy knew she was a poor substitute for the mother they’d lost. She wasn’t trying to replace her. She only hoped to give them a break from the reality that had been forced upon them, even if it was only for a few hours. But seeing their somber expressions, she felt the sting of her mistake. Only time would make it better, not her, not this. She wanted to run, make a hasty retreat and leave them to what was left of their broken family, but John spoke.
“You girls behave and try to have a good time.” He hugged each one in turn then Maddy hustled them down the steps. “Thank you,” he said and squeezed Sandy’s hand. They’d been dating nearly a year and, despite the three-year-old divorce settlement, it was still hard on the girls. Sandy gave a weak smile then jogged to the car.
They rode in near silence to the theater. Each of Sandy’s attempts at conversation were shut down with a one-word answer or a half-hearted nod. Resigned to their silence, she turned on the radio and let the music try to warm the stale atmosphere instead.
As they stepped into the lobby, Emily and Sarah’s faces brightened. At seven and nine, they were amazed at the beauty of the grand theater, pointing to heavy velvet curtains held back with gold ropes and the scrolling wood ornaments decorating the walls. Then they lifted their faces in wonder at the elaborately painted ceiling. The knot in Sandy’s stomach loosened until her eyes met Maddy’s. The fourteen-year-old’s face was set in a cold stare. It took all of Sandy’s strength to stand her ground and force a smile.
An usher finally led them to their seats where they once again sat in silence with only the occasional whisper from the little ones pointing out some new discovery. The house lights eventually dimmed and a hush fell over the audience. The first bars of music filled the room. The curtain rose, and the ballerinas took the stage.
Emily and Sarah were spellbound. Their eyes glued to the dancers—children twirled across the stage, tin soldiers came to life, and a sugar plum fairy enchanted them all. The glow in their eyes raised a lump in Sandy’s throat. She’d done the right thing. And as the saying went, two out of three wasn’t bad.
Emily and Sarah’s giggles and high-pitched chatter filled the car on the ride home, a warm contrast to the start of their journey. When they pulled into the driveway, the wind had died, leaving a peaceful blanket of snow across the yard and roof top. The younger girls clutched their shiny red nutcrackers and hugged Sandy goodbye. Again Maddy ushered them through the door as John and Sandy stood on the porch.
“Thank you for this. Their smiles…” His voice cracked; tears glistened in his eyes.
“You’re welcome.” He kissed her cheek then followed the girls inside. She was almost to the car when the screen door slammed behind her. She spun to find Maddy jogging down the steps.
“Sandy?” Her face was softer, her eyes wider, more innocent somehow.
“Yeah?”
“Thank you.” Maddy gave a soft smile then ran back into the house.
Sandy stood beside her car letting the words of a child warm her. Today wasn’t a substitute, but it had been a welcome reprieve, and that was more than enough for her.
Подоконники из искусственного камня https://luchshie-podokonniki-iz-kamnya.ru в Москве. Рейтинг лучших подоконников – авторское мнение, глубокий анализ производителей.
http://medivermonline.com/# Mediverm Online
ivermectin cream for scabies
connectwiththeworldnow – I’ll return to this, it seems like a project with real potential.
show experience
This is the description of content I have reading. purchase robaxin pills
Нарколог на выезд в Туле предоставляет незаменимую поддержку тем, кто страдает от зависимости. Процесс лечения зависимостей может быть сложным процессом, но нарколог, работающий на дому предлагает удобство и анонимность. На сайте narkolog-tula028.ru можно назначить встречу с наркологом, который встретится с вами на дому. Медицинская помощь на дому включает детоксикацию организма и психотерапию зависимостей, что позволяет пациенту начать путь к отрыву от наркотиков или алкоголя. Реабилитационная программа разрабатывается с учетом индивидуальных особенностей, учитывающим особенности каждого клиента. Поддержка родственников играет важнейшую роль в предотвращении рецидивов. Выездной нарколог обеспечивает не только лечение, но и эмоциональную поддержку, что является необходимым условием для достижения успеха в реабилитации зависимых.
I’m stunned by Wazamba Casino, it echoes a flood of wonder. The breadth in selections is breathtaking, incorporating wagers on athletic events. Equaling contributions up to €500. Functioning non-stop. The framework is approachable, periodically diversified reward schemes would improve it. Concluding , Wazamba Casino furnishes superior recreation for staking experts ! In addition the imagery is alluring and absorbing, fortifying absorption in play. Especially captivating obtaining elements for privileges, escalating participation.
https://wazambagr.com/|
Срочный вывод из запоя в Туле: способы оперативно возвратиться к нормальной жизни Когда употребление алкоголя становится острой проблемой, необходимо знать, что есть шанс получить срочную помощь. Нарколог на дом срочно — это решение для тех, кто нуждается в немедленной поддержке. Лечение алкоголизма требует квалифицированного подхода, и наркологическая клиника готова оказать необходимую медицинскую помощь на дому. Роль поддержки семьи является важной частью процесса восстановления. Психотерапия при алкоголизме поможет преодолеть с психологическими проблемами и предотвратить рецидивы. Обратившись к наркологу на дом, вы делаете первый шаг к избавлению от зависимости и ретурну к нормальной жизни.
центр реабилитации зависимых
reabilitaciya-astana008.ru
реабилитация алкогольной зависимости в Астане
I’m stunned by Wazamba Casino, it echoes a flood of wonder. The archive is profoundly vast, highlighting culturally inspired reels that enchant. Launching your voyage. Promoting continuous enjoyment. Disbursements are managed efficiently, however further advantages would stand out. To encapsulate , Wazamba Casino rises as a premier destination for staking experts ! Additionally the setting initializes swiftly, urging sustained engagements. Especially captivating nurturing collective spirit, escalating participation.
https://wazambagr.com/|
order Stromectol discreet shipping USA: low-cost ivermectin for Americans – trusted Stromectol source online
I’m surrounded by Wazamba Casino, it constructs an enthralling narrative. The archive is profoundly vast, including over 5,000 offerings from leading creators. Equaling contributions up to €500. Help desk is remarkable. Disbursements are managed efficiently, intermittently further advantages would stand out. Finishing with , Wazamba Casino rises as a premier destination for wagering lovers ! In addition the architecture is creatively striking, augmenting each instance’s charm. Significant is dependable digital money processing techniques, supplying individualized graces.
wazambagr.com|
https://predniwellonline.shop/# how to get Prednisone legally online
I find irresistible Wazamba Casino, it forges a compelling story. There’s an expansive array of choices, designed for digital currency operations. Launching your voyage. Addressing concerns instantly. Methods are simple, intermittently supplemental rotations could advance it. To encapsulate , Wazamba Casino furnishes superior recreation for staking experts ! Additionally the architecture is creatively striking, urging sustained engagements. Notably impressive the relic-amassing incentive structure, developing group cohesion.
wazambagr.com|
Je suis impressionne par Bingoal Casino, on percoit une energie dechainee. Il existe une profusion de jeux captivants, offrant des sessions live intenses. Doublement des depots jusqu’a 200 €. Les agents reagissent avec promptitude, proposant des reponses limpides. La procedure est aisee et efficace, mais plus de promotions frequentes seraient un atout. Globalement, Bingoal Casino est essentiel pour les amateurs pour les aficionados de jeux contemporains ! En outre le design est contemporain et lisse, ajoute un confort notable. A souligner aussi les options de paris sportifs etendues, renforce le sens de communaute.
Commencer Г apprendre|
I’m enthralled with Wazamba Casino, it echoes a flood of wonder. The archive is profoundly vast, highlighting culturally inspired reels that enchant. Heightening preliminary involvement. Proficient and considerate aid. Methods are simple, periodically supplemental rotations could advance it. Finishing with , Wazamba Casino turns essential for devotees for staking experts ! Further the setting initializes swiftly, fortifying absorption in play. Especially captivating the relic-amassing incentive structure, escalating participation.
https://wazambagr.com/|
connectwiththeworldnow – I like how clear their call is, the layout is striking.
Ich habe einen totalen Hang zu SpinBetter Casino, es ist eine Erfahrung, die wie ein Wirbelsturm pulsiert. Es gibt eine unglaubliche Auswahl an Spielen, mit innovativen Slots und fesselnden Designs. Der Service ist von hoher Qualitat, mit praziser Unterstutzung. Die Transaktionen sind verlasslich, dennoch zusatzliche Freispiele waren ein Highlight. Global gesehen, SpinBetter Casino ist ein Muss fur alle Gamer fur Krypto-Enthusiasten ! Au?erdem die Navigation ist kinderleicht, erleichtert die gesamte Erfahrung. Hervorzuheben ist die Community-Events, die das Spielen noch angenehmer machen.
spinbettercasino.de|
Je suis ebloui par Bingoal Casino, on percoit une vitalite dechainee. Les alternatives sont etonnamment etendues, proposant des jeux de table immersifs. Le bonus d’inscription est seduisant. L’equipe d’assistance est remarquable, proposant des reponses limpides. La procedure est aisee et efficace, mais des bonus plus diversifies seraient souhaitables. Globalement, Bingoal Casino est essentiel pour les amateurs pour les adeptes de sensations intenses ! De surcroit la navigation est simple et engageante, intensifie le plaisir du jeu. Egalement notable les evenements communautaires captivants, garantit des transactions securisees.
Voir maintenant|
Prednisone without prescription USA how to get Prednisone legally online online pharmacy Prednisone fast delivery
J’ai une passion debordante pour Casinia Casino, ca transporte dans un palais scintillant. Le repertoire est riche et multifacette, incluant des paris sportifs palpitants. Renforcant votre tresor initial. Les agents repondent comme une etoile filante, toujours pret a eclairer. Le processus est lisse et elegant, parfois quelques tours gratuits supplementaires seraient lumineux. Au final, Casinia Casino merite une exploration eblouissante pour les amateurs de casino en ligne ! Ajoutons que le site est rapide et envoutant, incite a prolonger l’aventure. A souligner aussi les paiements securises en crypto, qui renforce l’engagement.
Apprendre maintenant|
Je suis accro a Locowin Casino, ca transporte dans un monde captivant. La variete des titres est impressionnante, offrant des sessions live dynamiques. Pour un demarrage en force. Le service est disponible 24/7, joignable a toute heure. Les gains arrivent sans delai, parfois des bonus plus varies seraient bienvenus. En bref, Locowin Casino vaut largement le detour pour les joueurs en quete d’excitation ! Notons aussi le design est moderne et fluide, amplifie le plaisir de jouer. Un plus non negligeable les evenements communautaires engageants, offre des recompenses continues.
Jeter un coup d’œil|
Je suis epate par Locowin Casino, ca transporte dans un monde captivant. Le catalogue est riche et diversifie, proposant des jeux de table immersifs. Le bonus de bienvenue est attractif. Le service est disponible 24/7, toujours pret a aider. Les paiements sont securises et fluides, mais quelques tours gratuits en plus seraient cool. En bref, Locowin Casino garantit du fun a chaque instant pour les joueurs en quete d’excitation ! Notons aussi l’interface est intuitive et stylee, ajoute une touche de confort. Un autre atout majeur le programme VIP avec des niveaux exclusifs, assure des transactions fiables.
Ouvrir l’offre|
beste wettanbieter mit paypal
my web page: top sportwetten live – France,
I love the vibe of Astronaut Crash by 100HP Gaming, it feels like a zero-gravity thrill ride. The multiplier climbs with nail-biting suspense, powered by RNG for every unpredictable crash. Instant demo mode for practice. Community forums for strategy sharing, providing clear multiplier histories. Compatible with Bitcoin and Ethereum, nonetheless frequent promo drops would be stellar. To sum it all, Astronaut Crash delivers proven fair thrills for crypto gamblers ! Worth mentioning the interface supports seamless sessions, adding immersive audio cues. Especially cool demo with real-time stats, builds a social betting community.
Astronaut Crash Game|
Советы по строительству https://vodocar.com.ua и ремонту своими руками. Пошаговые инструкции, современные технологии, идеи для дома и участка. Мы поможем сделать ремонт проще, а строительство — надёжнее!
Сайт о строительстве https://valkbolos.com и ремонте домов, квартир и дач. Полезные советы мастеров, подбор материалов, дизайн-идеи, инструкции и обзоры инструментов. Всё, что нужно для качественного ремонта и современного строительства!
I’m totally obsessed with Astronaut Crash by 100HP Gaming, it builds an adrenaline-fueled cosmic quest. The gameplay is brilliantly simple yet addictive, including auto-cashout for risk management. Volatility keeps things exciting and fair. Community forums for strategy sharing, providing clear multiplier histories. Withdrawals are swift and secure, from time to time frequent promo drops would be stellar. All things considered, Astronaut Crash is must-play for risk-takers for crypto gamblers ! Bonus point load times are near-instant, simplifying bet adjustments. A real gem demo with real-time stats, offers verifiable randomness.
https://astronaut-crashgame777.com/|
Полезный сайт https://stroy-portal.kyiv.ua о строительстве и ремонте: новости отрасли, технологии, материалы, интерьерные решения и лайфхаки от профессионалов. Всё для тех, кто строит, ремонтирует и создаёт уют.
Информационный портал https://smallbusiness.dp.ua про строительство, ремонт и интерьер. Свежие новости отрасли, обзоры технологий и полезные лайфхаки. Всё, что нужно знать о стройке и благоустройстве жилья в одном месте!
Строительный сайт https://teplo.zt.ua для тех, кто создаёт дом своей мечты. Подробные обзоры, инструкции, подбор инструментов и дизайнерские проекты. Всё о ремонте и строительстве в одном месте.
wetten gewinnen tipps
Also visit my page Beste Sportwetten App Deutschland; Merkor.Net,
I love the vibe of Astronaut Crash by 100HP Gaming, it feels like a zero-gravity thrill ride. The gameplay is brilliantly simple yet addictive, with customizable bet sizes from $0.10 to $150. No wager requirements on bonuses. 24/7 availability for global players, accessible via multiple channels. The cash-out feature saves fortunes, from time to time additional themes beyond space. Overall, Astronaut Crash stands out in 100HP’s lineup for multiplier chasers ! Bonus point the interface supports seamless sessions, simplifying bet adjustments. Especially cool tournaments for competitive crashes, ensures fast and fee-free payouts.
Astronaut Crash Game|
официальный сайт ПокерОК
играть на сайте ПокерОК
Советы по строительству https://vodocar.com.ua и ремонту своими руками. Пошаговые инструкции, современные технологии, идеи для дома и участка. Мы поможем сделать ремонт проще, а строительство — надёжнее!
connectwiththeworldnow – Strong presence, design complements message and intent clearly.
Сайт о строительстве https://valkbolos.com и ремонте домов, квартир и дач. Полезные советы мастеров, подбор материалов, дизайн-идеи, инструкции и обзоры инструментов. Всё, что нужно для качественного ремонта и современного строительства!
Полезный сайт https://stroy-portal.kyiv.ua о строительстве и ремонте: новости отрасли, технологии, материалы, интерьерные решения и лайфхаки от профессионалов. Всё для тех, кто строит, ремонтирует и создаёт уют.
Строительный сайт https://teplo.zt.ua для тех, кто создаёт дом своей мечты. Подробные обзоры, инструкции, подбор инструментов и дизайнерские проекты. Всё о ремонте и строительстве в одном месте.
Информационный портал https://smallbusiness.dp.ua про строительство, ремонт и интерьер. Свежие новости отрасли, обзоры технологий и полезные лайфхаки. Всё, что нужно знать о стройке и благоустройстве жилья в одном месте!
I love the vibe of Astronaut Crash by 100HP Gaming, it feels like a zero-gravity thrill ride. The multiplier climbs with nail-biting suspense, including auto-cashout for risk management. Instant demo mode for practice. Community forums for strategy sharing, always ready to assist mid-launch. The cash-out feature saves fortunes, however additional themes beyond space. Wrapping it up, Astronaut Crash is must-play for risk-takers for strategy lovers ! Worth mentioning the visuals are sleek and spacey, adding immersive audio cues. Another killer feature tournaments for competitive crashes, which amps up replay value.
Astronaut Crash Game|
I’m hooked on Astronaut Crash by 100HP Gaming, it feels like a zero-gravity thrill ride. Dual bet options add layers of strategy, with customizable bet sizes from $0.10 to $150. Instant demo mode for practice. Community forums for strategy sharing, always ready to assist mid-launch. Withdrawals are swift and secure, from time to time expanded auto features for newbies. Wrapping it up, Astronaut Crash provides non-stop cosmic excitement for crypto gamblers ! Additionally load times are near-instant, making every round feel epic. Especially cool provably fair verification tools, ensures fast and fee-free payouts.
astronaut-crashgame777.com|
I’m hooked on Astronaut Crash by 100HP Gaming, it builds an adrenaline-fueled cosmic quest. Dual bet options add layers of strategy, with customizable bet sizes from $0.10 to $150. Instant demo mode for practice. Detailed guides on cash-out timing, always ready to assist mid-launch. Transactions process in minutes, occasionally higher max bets for high-rollers. All things considered, Astronaut Crash stands out in 100HP’s lineup for multiplier chasers ! Bonus point navigation is intuitive for beginners, heightening the launch anticipation. Standout element tournaments for competitive crashes, offers verifiable randomness.
https://astronaut-crashgame777.com/|
Многие не знают, что лечение алкогольной зависимости возможно в комфортных условиях и без срывов. Главное — подобрать подходящую программу и квалифицированную помощь. Подробнее о вариантах лечения рассказывает сайт stop-alko.info
Подробнее можно узнать тут – как проходит кодирование
https://medivermonline.com/# Stromectol ivermectin tablets for humans USA
Stromectol ivermectin tablets for humans USA
пансионат для пожилых в москве
pansionat-msk010.ru
пансионат для лежачих пожилых
Помощь при запое в домашних условиях требует целостного подхода. Прежде всего, важно помнить о детоксикации организма. Пить много воды поможет вывести токсины. Домашние средства при запое, такие как настои из трав (мелисса, мята), могут смягчить проявления. вывод из запоя круглосуточно тула Реабилитация после алкогольной зависимости включает здоровое питание, фрукты и овощи ускоряют процесс. Поддержка близких играет ключевую роль, так как психологическая помощь может предотвратить повторные запои.
реабилитация наркозависимых в Астане
reabilitaciya-astana009.ru
анонимное лечение от алкоголизма
I’m obsessed with Wazamba Casino, it mirrors a torrent of mystique. The diversity in titles is astounding, tailored for cryptocurrency usage. Amplifying early engagement. Answering queries rapidly. The mechanism is intuitive, still further spins could be advantageous. Ending with, Wazamba Casino furnishes unparalleled amusement for excitement chasers ! In addition the framework is artistically impressive, refining user interaction. Particularly enticing reliable crypto handling methods, heightening involvement.
wazambagr.com|
новые минивены цены hyundai palisade – это большой и комфортабельный внедорожник, предлагающий просторный салон, современный дизайн и передовые технологии. Он идеально подходит для больших семей и тех, кто ценит комфорт и безопасность в каждой поездке.