Ramshackle

February 12, 2013January 5, 2015 ~ Tara R. ~ 10 Comments

She survived two husbands and three children. Living alone in her family home for nearly 30 years, she was well-known in her community. Always ready with a pot of homemade chicken soup for the sick, a hot-from-the oven pie for new neighbors or hand-sewn quilts for the babies. Her church had a waiting list of … Continue reading Ramshackle

Breaking the rules

January 2, 2013January 5, 2015 ~ Tara R. ~ 16 Comments

“So which one did you decide on?” “The redhead.” “Why that one? It’s hideous.” “I liked it, I think it made the boldest statement.” “I still don’t understand why someone your age needs a skateboard.” “It’s not merely a skateboard, it’s part of my New Year’s resolution.” “What’s that? To break every bone in your … Continue reading Breaking the rules

Hold your breath and count to ten

October 5, 2011January 7, 2015 ~ Tara R. ~ 18 Comments

I am apparently quickly becoming a woman "of a certain age." This is my birthday week... yeah, I am going to celebrate all stinkin' week, that's how I roll. Yesterday I turned 49, and I've got a lot going on to celebrate - not my birth, but my life. Monday I went in for my … Continue reading Hold your breath and count to ten

Basic training

September 15, 2011January 5, 2015 ~ Tara R. ~ 15 Comments

“You really should start dating again. I know some great guys. I could hook you up.” “We’ve talked about this, I’m fine.” “Aren’t you lonely? You’re too young to be by yourself.” “Just because I’m alone, doesn’t mean I'm lonely.” “Don’t you miss... you know?” “Sure, I miss... the intimacy, but I can’t...” “I can’t … Continue reading Basic training

Fairytales

September 8, 2011January 5, 2015 ~ Tara R. ~ 18 Comments

Grace didn’t like sitting so still to have her hair brushed, but knew if she squirmed Sister would pull. Instead, she imagined her fairy dolls, their iridescent wings sparkling in the afternoon sun, dancing among the glittering dust motes caught in the light coming through the window. The giggle just came out. Sister caught it … Continue reading Fairytales

Junkyard

February 1, 2011January 9, 2015 ~ Tara R. ~ 9 Comments

If I were a car, I'd be an antique and could wear one of those cerulean blue tags. A piece of furniture, an heirloom to be fought over by my surviving beneficiaries. If I were a work of art, I'd be in the public domain, having been born prior to 1963 and failing to renew copyrights. … Continue reading Junkyard