“Did you decide what you wanted to do for your birthday, Mom?” Haley was curled up in a recliner in the living room, eating a bowl of cereal. Her mother, Debbie, was folding clothes, stacking neat piles along the back of the couch. “Having all of you together for dinner would be great,” Debbie said, … Continue reading Happy birthday baby sister
Tag: estrangement
Happy hour
When I agreed to meet him, it was with the precondition that I consume a tranquilizing amount of aperitif. My third watermelon lemonade mojito arrived with him. His disapproval was as sour as my drink, and I didn’t care. As he slowly sat down, I couldn’t help but notice his receding hairline and substantial paunch. I … Continue reading Happy hour
Sisters-in-law
Iona watched her sister-in-law, Tess, through the kitchen window as she brewed their tea. The other woman was on the screened-in porch, wrapped in a quilt and reading a book. It was cold enough this late in October, that occasionally Tess’ breath rose in tiny white puffs. The two had spent the past two days … Continue reading Sisters-in-law
Missing what you’ve never had
Still, even after all that has happened, after all the hurt and confusion, I miss you. Or rather, I miss what could have been. I wish I were able to sit down with you, maybe over a cup of coffee, and have a real conversation with you. I don’t even know if you drink coffee… … Continue reading Missing what you’ve never had
Mixed messages
I didn't believe I would ever say this but, I miss my washer and dryer. I even miss my vacuum cleaner. I miss my house, I miss everything about my old life. I never appreciated what I had. It's been three months since he kicked me out, and I'm reduced to having to clean my … Continue reading Mixed messages
Dear First
12, Never 2012 First Born King of Everything Frozen Hell Blvd High Horse, TN 04161 Dear First, Our estrangement is undoubtedly my fault and deserves an apology. I'm sorry you're an arrogant and judgmental prick, and apologize our familial relationship precludes addressing you as "motherfucker" or "son of a bitch." Sincerely, The Other One The … Continue reading Dear First


