Hi, Gang!

I'm late with a story again.

There are many reasons for my late stories.
I'll soon tell you why. There are painful reasons
why I'm not able write them now.


I pray you understand.


Thanks to all our new members. I pray my words
keep you coming back.

Mike



    I Love your comments.
    Send them to: msmith4@nj.rr.com

    If anyone is interested in greeting cards or crafts,
Ginny belongs to a group of artists. They've teamed
together to market their products. Check them out at:
http://www.etsygreetings.blogspot.com


    Ginny's cards and other crafts are at:
http://www.ginginsgoodies.etsy.com


    Be sure to check out my collection of inspirational
sites at the end. There's something for everyone.


    Now for today's story.




                        On Two Wheels

    It had coaster brakes and only one gear. My two older brothers
used it before me. The twenty-inch, black frame showed its age. It
was scratched and nicked from years of use, but I didn't care. It
was mine now.

    In the front yard, I held the handlebars, swung my right leg
over, and settled myself onto the seat.  My legs weren't long enough
for both to touch the ground at the same time. I leaned to one side.
One foot supported me. I looked around, made sure no one watched,
and kicked off. My feet reached for the pedals and began to pump.
After a few wobbly yards, I fell off, landed on my shoulder in
the grass, jumped up, brushed myself off, got back on, and fell
again.

    A week later, I rode in circles around the yard, always to
the left. I didn't wobble or fall. I was steady, as I followed the
beaten trail I'd created in the grass. The wind created by my
movement cooled my sweat-stained face.

    I was free.

    I was flying.

    "Michael!" Mum called. "Supper's ready!" I turned toward
the front steps, wobbled and fell to the ground.

    I didn't know how to go straight or to the right. I'd learned
to travel in circles to the left.

    One day I became brave. "Mum, I'm going to take my bike to
Grandmum's."

    "Are you sure?" she asked.

    "I can do it, Mum."

    Grandmum lived at the bottom of a short hill from our house.
I'd walk there often, but when I sat on my bike at the top of that
hill, it seemed much higher than I remembered. I put my feet on
the pedals and started to roll. My speed increased. I pushed back
on the pedals, braked to a halt, stepped off, and walked my bike
to the bottom. On level ground, I got back on my bike, and pedaled
to Grandmum's.

    "Do you have any muffins, "I asked.

    She laughed. "You know where they are." I ran to her pantry.
In the cupboard was a plate filled with fresh baked muffins, smothered
in pink icing - my favorite.

    "Did you see me, Grandmum?" I mumbled, my mouth full. "I brought
my bicycle! Did you see me?"

    Grandmum hugged me. "I saw you, Michael. You did well, but I
saw you walk your bike down the hill. It's scary, isn't it? You didn't
have control, but you'll get it right.

    "You're getting big. When you're older, you'll be bicycling
all over the place. I'm proud of you.  You'll get control."

    A few weeks later, I rode my bike to the bottom of that hill.
I had my brakes on all the way, but I had control.


    I grew up and left home for a new job. That first week, I cried
a lot - lonely. Mom wasn't there. I fought through it. It was a
new hill to roll down. Over time, I learned to cook, clean, and take
care of myself. Grandmum was right, I learned control and to use
my brakes. I got through my fear and learned to survive and stayed
on my bike.

    Much later, I married and became a dad - more stumbles and
turns. There were sports and school functions to drive the kids to.
I sat my bike aside and taught them to ride theirs.

    I've wobbled, stumbled and fallen, but I've always gotten up,
brushed myself off, climbed back on the seat, and learned to turn
around the obstacles. I've always thought I had it under control,
but life  holds surprises. I've fallen many times: lost work,
moved, raised children, and held my first wife's hand as she took
her last breath.etc.

    The turns taught me to stay steady.

    Life is a series of turns, stumbles and getting back on the
seat. Life is learning to gain control.

Michael T Smith



     If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to your friends.
   
My only request is that you include the link for your friends to

join our family.

To join our family, go to:

http://subs.zinester.com/86758/

    As promised, here is a list of great inspirational sites.

I subscribe to all of them. You will love these sites.

    A good friend of mine has a new book out. You should check
this out. Carol's been through rough times. She tells it all
in her latest book.

Carol Roach
M.Ed, B.A.
Publisher: Storytime Tapestry
Author: Angels Watching Over Me:http://www.lulu.com/content/644485
Picking up the Pieces: A Woman's Journey: www.publishamerica.com

To join Carol's story site, go to Storytime Tapestry at:
http://archives.zinester.com/98907/

From my wonderful writing friend, Jan. She writes wonderful
stories about her life and losing her sight.
Janet Perez Eckles
Faith and Love with a Latin Flair
www.janetperezeckles.com


Here's a good one by Linda Della Donna
Freelance Writer
www.littleredmailbox.com
www.griefcase.blogspot.com
www.storybone.blogspot.com
"...and sometime when I wasn't looking, I got a new life."

By my good friend Keith in Australia:
http://www.agiftofinspiration.com.au/

My friend Phil runs http://www.peoplestuff.com.au/
Phil's awesome and brutally honest

Zev, yes another friend, runs http://empoweringmessages.com/stories/

Heart Catchers is a wonderful site.  www.DianeDeanWhite.com

www.Heartwarmers.com and www.petwarmers.com are two

wonderful story sites.

http://hodu.com/

http://www.mydailyinsights.com/

www.ripplemaker.com

http://www.sermonillustrator.org

http://www.SkyWriting.Net

Here's a newly discovered one I like:

http://www.archive.zinester.com/9516

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WarmFuzzyStories/

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WithInSight/

If you, or anyone you know needs prayers for health concerns,
struggles,etc visit www.janetperezeckles.com
Janet's prayer group will respond.

That's all I can think of right now. If I come up with

more, I'll add them.

Enjoy!!!


I love your comments, Send them to msmith4@nj.rr.com.

I'll include some in every post.

Now for a few comments on my last story:

Hi, Gang!!

I'd like our new members for joining. This week
our family topped 1400 members.

I wish I had a new story for all of you, but I don't.
Last week I worked 64 hours, not including my commute
time, which adds another twenty hours to my week.

Tonight I bring you an older story.

While writing my story about shopping for
"Things with Wings" I had an idea for a story.

I feel a great story building. It's a spiritual
piece. It's burning in my heart.

It will be my lesson to you from him.

Look for it in a few days.

Thanks to all our new members. I pray my words
keep you coming back.



Mike



    I Love your comments.
    Send them to: msmith4@nj.rr.com

    If anyone is interested in greeting cards or crafts,
Ginny belongs to a group of artists. They've teamed
together to market their products. Check them out at:
http://www.etsygreetings.blogspot.com


    Ginny's cards and other crafts are at:
http://www.ginginsgoodies.etsy.com


    Be sure to check out my collection of inspirational
sites at the end. There's something for everyone.


    Now for today's story.


            Kick Up Your Heels

    I hadn't been back to Ohio in more than two years. I missed my friends. An
invitation from my dear friend Deb came in the mail. It was for her 50th birthday party.
Ginny and I accepted.
    We drove ten hours, arrived late Friday evening, and helped decorate. I had the
privilege to meet many of my old friends and introduce my lovely bride, Ginny, to
those who hadn't had the privilege on our last visit.
    The next night, the DJ set up, the caterers brought in the food, and guests began to
arrive. There were a lot of new faces in the group. All the old gang was there, but new
people had moved into the neighborhood. They were quickly adopted into Deb's family
of friends.
    Deb is a huge fan of the Scottish heritage and its charm. She writes romance
stories based on that era. I had a surprise for her. Ginny and I went downstairs. She
helped me get into a Scottish costume. As we adjusted my belt and sash, I asked, "Do
you think I should go natural under my kilt?"
    "Not in this crowd." she was quick to reply.
    Ginny and I entered the room, where the DJ was set up. The guests were outside
eating, talking, and enjoying a wonderful evening. I grabbed the microphone, "Deborah, I
want to wish you a happy birthday.
    "For those who don't know me, my name is Michael. Deb and I have been writing
buddies and friends for many years. It's a real pleasure to be here on her special day.
    "Deb, if you will step in here, I have a little surprise for you."
    She walked in the room, saw me in my costume and started to laugh. She
walked up to me on rubbery legs. Tears streamed down her cheeks. She reached out
and wrapped her arms around my shoulders for support.
    She gained control of herself, "Michael! I love you! You're a nut! This is the best
birthday present ever."
    I huggd her back, "I love ya, sis."
    Cameras flashed as she lifted the back of my kilt for all to see. My Ginny is a
wise woman. Within twenty minutes, my kilt was lifted four times, by different ladies.
    I changed back. It wasn't safe out there in a kilt.
    The DJ played '50's Rock-n-Roll all night long. An hour went by. No one danced.
The DJ put on "The Twist." I rushed to Ginny, who talked to one of my old friends.
"Come on, Hun. Let's dance!"
     "Not right now, Hun. I'm talking to Ralph. How about in a little bit? Is that
OK?"
    "OK," I was disappointed, but I understood. She didn't want to be rude.
    I walked around the patio. The urge to dance was strong. I passed a group of
people. A lady standing with her husband caught my eye. She asked, "Doesn't anyone do
the twist anymore?"
    "They sure do!" I said. "Come on! Let's go!"
    I tossed my shoes to the corner - I can't twist in shoes. We twisted around the
room. I twisted low to the floor, spun in a circle, and twisted back up again. In the
background, I heard Ginny encouraging me, "You go, Baby! Go baby!"
    The song ended - another began. My partner and I continued to dance. Ginny
joined us. Soon, another joined us. I danced with five, then six, then ten to twelve ladies.
    We stood in a circle, danced, sang, laughed and smiled.
    Ginny strutted her stuff. My little gal sure knows how to move. We rarely get the
chance to dance together. It was only the third time we have had the chance to strut our
stuff together.  We made the best of it.
    Later that evening, the DJ called me over, "Mike, do you think you, Bruce (Deb's
husband), and a few other guys would be willing to act out 'The Village People's' song,
'YMCA?'"
    "I'm game." I replied.
    We gathered a group of guys together. The DJ handed us hats - I was the
construction worker. The music started. Guests flowed in from the patio and circled
the dance floor.
    Bruce hopped to the center of the room, spun in a circle, kicked his feet out,
and appeared to be a gypsy in a policeman's helmet, as the rest of us sang into inflatable
microphones. We took turns dancing to the center of the roomto show our moves, and
make complete fools of ourselves.
    I had the elegance of a walrus. My feet kicked out. My arms reached high. "At
the Y-M…" My arm hit my construction hat and sent it flying across the room. A lady -
it might have been my twist partner - jumped out of the way.
    The music came to a stop. The guests cheered. Bruce and I looked at each
other, "That was fun!" he said.
    I shook his hand. "Bruce, this is a great party. Thank you."
    Ginny and I like to have a good time and are not afraid to make a fool of
ourselves. We lie to have fun.
    I once waved out a window at passing cars and learned the magic of the clown
inside. That night was no different. By the time the party ended, Ginny and I knew
everyone there.
    After the kilt lifting, they knew me very well.
    Don't hold the clown inside. Let it out. Kick up your heels, have some fun,
and laugh. You won't have to find new friends, they'll come to you.

Michael T Smith
   

   



     If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to your friends.
   
My only request is that you include the link for your friends to

join our family.

To join our family, go to:

http://subs.zinester.com/86758/

    As promised, here is a list of great inspirational sites.

I subscribe to all of them. You will love these sites.

    A good friend of mine has a new book out. You should check
this out. Carol's been through rough times. She tells it all
in her latest book.

Carol Roach
M.Ed, B.A.
Publisher: Storytime Tapestry
Author: Angels Watching Over Me:http://www.lulu.com/content/644485
Picking up the Pieces: A Woman's Journey: www.publishamerica.com

To join Carol's story site, go to Storytime Tapestry at:
http://archives.zinester.com/98907/

From my wonderful writing friend, Jan. She writes wonderful
stories about her life and losing her sight.
Janet Perez Eckles
Faith and Love with a Latin Flair
www.janetperezeckles.com


Here's a good one by Linda Della Donna
Freelance Writer
www.littleredmailbox.com
www.griefcase.blogspot.com
www.storybone.blogspot.com
"...and sometime when I wasn't looking, I got a new life."

By my good friend Keith in Australia:
http://www.agiftofinspiration.com.au/

My friend Phil runs http://www.peoplestuff.com.au/
Phil's awesome and brutally honest

Zev, yes another friend, runs http://empoweringmessages.com/stories/

Heart Catchers is a wonderful site.  www.DianeDeanWhite.com

www.Heartwarmers.com and www.petwarmers.com are two

wonderful story sites.

http://hodu.com/

http://www.mydailyinsights.com/

www.ripplemaker.com

http://www.sermonillustrator.org

http://www.SkyWriting.Net

Here's a newly discovered one I like:

http://www.archive.zinester.com/9516

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WarmFuzzyStories/

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WithInSight/

If you, or anyone you know needs prayers for health concerns,
struggles,etc visit www.janetperezeckles.com
Janet's prayer group will respond.

That's all I can think of right now. If I come up with

more, I'll add them.

Enjoy!!!


I love your comments, Send them to msmith4@nj.rr.com.

I'll include some in every post.

Now for a few comments on my last story:

Yes, I've already received some great comments on yesterday's
story.

Hey, Michael!

What a beautiful, encouraging story! It is the truth, we
take life for granted, and when we have some kilometers
behind us, we start worrying, but even then we don't live our
lives to the fullest. Thank you for reminding me that time
on Earth is not eternal, and that I should start doing the
things I enjoy, without dreading the end, which is going to
come either I want it or not. It's not about dying young or
old, it's about doing something meaningful with the time
you have been given.

Jessica.

*****************

I love this comment. I do try to write as if I am speaking
to each of you. Thank you, Pat.

Mike: Reading your messages, I am often reminded of a saying
that goes "when the student is ready, the teacher will come..." 
Thank you for being a teacher that keeps on coming, many
times unexpectedly , with messages that I am sure were written
JUST FOR ME.
 
God bless you in your ministry, your efforts, your work and
your life!
 
pat in DC

Hi, Gang

I don't have a new story for you tonight.
Once again, I reworked an old story.
I wish I could provide a new story, but work is sucking my
hours away. I do have an idea for a new story, I hope
to present it to you this week. The idea just keeps
bubbling in my head.
No! I don't have a fever.
(I'm being silly)


Many of you commented on the dancing in my
story called, "Kick up Your Heels."
This is another story about dancing.

My first wife and I took dance lessons once.
We loved it. We also learned a few things.
Read about it below.

    If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to
your friends. I only ask that you leave the link
at the bottom for them to join us.

    NOTE: IF YOU WISH TO STOP RECEIVING MY STORIES,
PLEASE USE THE UNSUBSCRIBE LINK BELOW. PLEASE DO NOT
MARK ME AS SPAM. MY STORIES ARE ONLY SENT TO THOSE
WHO SUBSCRIBE TO MY EZINE.

    I Love your comments.
    Send them to: msmith4@nj.rr.com

    Sadly, many of you are not receiving my stories.
Spammers are causing your ISP's to block ezines.
So many of my faithful readers are emailing me, asking
why they are not receiving my stories.
It hurts me.

    If anyone is interested in greeting cards or crafts,
Ginny belongs to a group of artists. They've teamed
together to market their products. Check them out at:
http://www.etsygreetings.blogspot.com


    Ginny's cards and other crafts are at:
http://www.ginginsgoodies.etsy.com


    Be sure to check out my collection of inspirational
sites at the end. There's something for everyone.


    Now for today's story.





                          Can You Dance

    I held my wife Georgia close. We swayed to the music and turned in
   
slow circles. Next to us, a couple twirled and spun in elegant

circles. Their feet and bodies moved in harmony with the music.

They were beautiful as they floated over the dance floor.

"Wouldn't it be wonderful to dance like that?" Georgia asked.


    My daughter, Vanessa, was in her junior year of high school.
   
She and her boyfriend planned to attend the prom. Georgia decided

to give them dance lessons for Christmas.


    Georgia found a dance studio and called them. "Are you sure
   
you and your husband don't want to take lessons with them?" the

gentleman asked. "There's a discount for a second couple."


    "Well…" my wife hesitated. "Why not?"


    We stood with ten other couples in the center of the floor
   
at Jimmy's Dance Studio.  I listened to the conversations. "I've

always wanted to do this." one woman said.


    "I hope I don't step on someone's feet." a man of about fifty
   
said to his graying wife.


    A  dapper gentleman of about sixty stepped into the room and
   
faced us. He was five foot two inch - if that. "I'm Jimmy. You're

here to learn to dance and you will. I promise you, by the time

you finish your first six weeks, you'll make your friends jealous."

he said. His toupee, obviously fitted many years ago, was slightly

off center and barely covered his spreading baldness.


    We started with the basic box step, a simple waltz for those
   
who know how to dance. We practiced the steps facing each other

but standing several feet apart. The men stepped forward with

their left foot; the women stepped back with their right. Our steps

were mirror images of each other. "One, two, three." Jimmy shouted.


    It seemed easy.


    "OK!" Jimmy said. "Watch how it's done." He took one of his
   
assistants in his arms. An Anne Murray song began to play. "Save

The Last Dance For Me" she sang, as Jimmy and his partner drifted

elegantly around the room.


    "We're going to start the music again. Take your partner in
   
your arms. Now let's give it a try." Jimmy smiled at us. "It's

easy. You'll see."


    Anne Murray sang the song that would haunt us for months. I
   
held Georgia in my arms. My right hand held her waist, the left

held her hand. The music began. I moved my left foot forward and

stepped on Georgia's toe. We stood firm, waited for the beat, and

tried again. Half way through the box, we faltered again.


    "Hold her firm!" one of the assistants came to our side. She

grabbed my arm. "Here! Put your arm around her waist! Hold her

hand with the other! Don't move it. Keep it firm! You have to

guide her!"


    The music began. We got through the full box without stumbling
   
or stepping on each other. Compared to the instructors, we looked

like two kids dancing for the first time.


    Several weeks later, something happened. The music played.
   
Georgia and I flowed over the dance floor. Our awkwardness was

gone. We were partners. We danced as one.


    It took a lot of practice and time, but we did it. We became
   
a team. We anticipated each other's moves and were able to

interpret the slightest signal from the other. What seemed so

hard before became natural.


    We looked at our relationship. We'd stumbled cooking together,
   
what our children should be allowed to do, when to mow the lawn,

how much to spend on a car, where our vacations should be spent,

and all things couples struggle with.


    We took what we learned and applied it to out lives.


    We danced.

    Michael T. Smith
   
         If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to your friends.
   
My only request is that you include the link for your friends to

join our family.

To join our family, go to:

http://subs.zinester.com/86758/

    As promised, here is a list of great inspirational sites.

I subscribe to all of them. You will love these sites.

    A good friend of mine has a new book out. You should check
this out. Carol's been through rough times. She tells it all
in her latest book.

Carol Roach
M.Ed, B.A.
Publisher: Storytime Tapestry
Author: Angels Watching Over Me:http://www.lulu.com/content/644485
Picking up the Pieces: A Woman's Journey: www.publishamerica.com

To join Carol's story site, go to Storytime Tapestry at:
http://archives.zinester.com/98907/

From my wonderful writing friend, Jan. She writes wonderful
stories about her life and losing her sight.
Janet Perez Eckles
Faith and Love with a Latin Flair
www.janetperezeckles.com

This is a great one
Tannia E. Ortiz-Lopés
"The Window to My Soul, My Walk with Jesus"
http://www.myspace.com/tanniaortizlopes
http://timewithtannia.tripod.com/


Here's a good one by Linda Della Donna
Freelance Writer
www.littleredmailbox.com
www.griefcase.blogspot.com
www.storybone.blogspot.com
"...and sometime when I wasn't looking, I got a new life."

By my good friend Keith in Australia:
http://www.agiftofinspiration.com.au/

My friend Phil runs http://www.peoplestuff.com.au/
Phil's awesome and brutally honest

Zev, yes another friend, runs http://empoweringmessages.com/stories/

Heart Catchers is a wonderful site.  www.DianeDeanWhite.com

www.Heartwarmers.com and www.petwarmers.com are two

wonderful story sites.

http://hodu.com/

http://www.mydailyinsights.com/

www.ripplemaker.com

http://www.sermonillustrator.org

http://www.SkyWriting.Net

Here's a newly discovered one I like:

http://www.archive.zinester.com/9516

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WarmFuzzyStories/

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WithInSight/

If you, or anyone you know needs prayers for health concerns,
struggles,etc visit www.janetperezeckles.com
Janet's prayer group will respond.

That's all I can think of right now. If I come up with

more, I'll add them.

Enjoy!!!


I love your comments, Send them to msmith4@nj.rr.com.

I'll include some in every post.

Now for a few comments on my last story:

Sometimes, just a simple email is all it takes to make me
know I touched someone. Diana does it here.

Great story, thanks for sharing!
Diana

*******************





August 25, 2007

Dear Mike,

I loved your story today.  You sound like my husband.  He loves to dance,
and so do I.  In fact, our very first date was going to a Glen Miller
Orchestra in Des Moines, IA.  I had to learn to dance in order to go on the
date.  We had a wonderful time and I loved every minute of it.  We don’t get
many chances to dance, but do so whenever possible.  On our honeymoon (two
cruises to the Western Caribbean), we got to dance a lot and entered a few
dance contests.  One of them was a Twist dance.  Bob and I took first place.
  I still think they took pity on a blind woman doing the Twist.  My husband
is not afraid to make a fool of himself and has taught me to do so, too.  I
enjoy getting out of my “box” once in a while!

I am eagerly awaiting your new story in a couple of days.  I will pray that
God gives you the words that He wants your readers to hear from Him.  I pray
that God will grant you His favor in writing this story, that it will just
flow from your heart and spirit and will bless us all, including you.

I loved the link to the “Amazing Grace” song.  It made me cry.  God is SO
GOOD!

Praying that God will strengthen you during your busy schedule.  Praying for
you and yours!

God Bless!
Sandy

********************

Hey, Michael, me-boy! How are ya? I loved Kick Up Your Heels. What fun you are!
 
I also wanted to say...
 
CONGRATULATIONS!!!
 
You're a growing boy! So glad to see your numbers going up!
 
Just as something to ponder...is it possible or time for another job? You sound
worn out! And not much time left over to spend with your precious bride! I'm still
praying for a computer. Pretty soon you'd better tell I don't need to any more!!!
 
With affection, Lynn
 
Oh, my gosh...I almost forgot...thank you, thank you, thank you, for the Wintley
Phipps site. I'm passing it along to everyone! What an awesome performance. He
came to our church one time. He is really blessed with talent!

Have a great and blessed weekend.


Lynn

Hi, Gang About two hours ago I submitted my entry for the Writers Weekly 24-hour Short Story Contest. Before the story I have the subject I received yesterday and then my entry. I'm curious to know what you think. It's not as dark as most of my entries to this contest. I think this entry is just spooky. If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to your friends. I only ask that you leave the link at the bottom for them to join us. NOTE: IF YOU WISH TO STOP RECEIVING MY STORIES, PLEASE USE THE UNSUBSCRIBE LINK BELOW. PLEASE DO NOT MARK ME AS SPAM. MY STORIES ARE ONLY SENT TO THOSE WHO SUBSCRIBE TO MY EZINE. I Love your comments. Send them to: msmith4@nj.rr.com If anyone is interested in greeting cards, Ginny belongs to a group of artists. They've teamed together to market their products. Check them out at: http://www.etsygreetings.blogspot.com Ginny's cards and other crafts are at: http://www.ginginsgoodies.etsy.com Be sure to check out my collection of inspirational sites at the end. There's something for everyone. Now for today's story. TODAY'S TOPIC! Mosquitoes buzzed, but kept their distance as the aroma of insect repellent overpowered the smoke coming from the dying campfire. The counselor was getting to the good part of the ghost story and the campers were all quiet, straining to hear the raspy whispers of the protagonist. The sudden sound of footsteps approaching on the pine needle carpet silenced the group. All heads turned simultaneously and the little girls screamed when a man emerged from the tree line, dressed in torn clothing and carrying a pack. The pack started to move as an infant's startled cry joined the panicked chorus... ~~~~~ WORD COUNT Stories for today's topic must not exceed 1050 words. (Your story's title is *not* included in the word count. We used MSWord's word count function to determine the final word count in submission.) *Very Important* Type "24 Hour Contest" in the subject line of your email entry! This will enable us to pull any wayward entries out of our sp*m filter. He was Gone “Isn’t it beautiful, Larry?” Susan asked her husband. “It’s incredible.” They passed a warning sign with a picture of a deer on it. Larry glanced to his left. The Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, separated by deep ravines and valleys, stretched for as far as he could see. “I spent all my life in Kansas. I didn’t have time to travel. I can’t believe how beautiful these mountains are.” “I love them. I haven’t seen them in close to twenty years. If Daddy hadn’t taken that job in Kansas, I’d probably live here.” She reached over and squeezed Larry’s arm. “Then again, I’d probably never have met you.” Larry reached out and massaged the back of Susan’s head. “I love you!” She sighed and leaned her head back against his soothing hand. “I wonder if my cousins will remember me?” “Susan, you talk to them on the phone all the time.” “You know what I mean; will they recognize me? It’s been so long.” “Hun, you emailed pictures to them.” “You’re right. I’m being silly.” They passed a brown sign stating, “Girl Scout Camp - 5 Miles.” Oh my God, Larry! I forgot about the camp. I used to go there every year. If I’m not mistaken, it’s over there,” She pointed to the left. “On the side of that mountain. I bet they’re camping there right now. I wonder if Karen, she was our counselor back then, is still there. She’d be in her 50’s now.” A weak cry came from the back seat. Larry turned to check six-month-old Amanda. “Susan, she’s so beautiful. She looks just like you.” “Larry, look out!” Susan screamed. Larry turned to see a deer leap from the woods on their right. He slammed on the brakes and turned the wheel. The car spun out of control, flipped over a guard rail, landed on its wheels, and careened down the side of the mountain. Larry held onto the wheel and tried to see through the cracked windshield. Near the bottom of the mountain, they slammed into a tree, spun and landed on their roof at the edge of a fast moving river. Larry woke to Amanda’s screams. Susan hung lifeless from her seatbelt. He reached out and shook her shoulder. “Susan?” He asked. “Hun?” He placed his hand on her neck – no pulse. The baby, strapped securely in her car seat, continued to scream. Larry knew it was too late for Susan. He had to protect their child. He pushed the button to release his seatbelt and dropped to the roof of the overturned car. He didn’t feel his head smash against the roof light. Larry crawled to Amanda. Cradling her in his right arm, he forced his way through the shattered rear window. A jagged piece of metal ripped his shirt and cut deep into his shoulder. He felt nothing. He staggered to safety and stood with Amanda in his arms. Susan’s pale face pressed against the window. Her vacant eyes stared at him. In his mind, he heard her speak, “Larry, save our daughter.” He looked up the side of the steep mountain and saw the torn trail they’d created in the brush. Larry knew he couldn’t climb to the top, especially with Amanda in his arms. “If I’m not mistaken, it’s over there, up on the side of that mountain. I bet they’re camping there right now.” Larry remembered Susan saying. He set his daughter on the ground, returned to the car, and retrieved a backpack. With his daughter secure in the pack, Larry followed the rivers edge. Before he turned the first bend, he looked back to see his wife staring after him. “Go! Save our daughter. I’m with the mountains I love.” Larry found a trail and followed it; the sun set. He found a stick and stumbled through the forest like a blind man. A light breeze carried the scent of wood smoke. Larry turned to the wind and followed it to safety. ******************** Mosquitoes buzzed, but kept their distance as the aroma of insect repellent overpowered the smoke coming from the dying campfire. Counselor Karen was getting to the good part of the ghost story and the campers were all quiet, straining to hear the raspy whispers of the protagonist. The sudden sound of footsteps approaching on the pine needle carpet silenced the group. All heads turned simultaneously and the little girls screamed when a man emerged from the tree line, dressed in torn clothing and carrying a backpack. The pack started to move as an infant's startled cry joined the panicked chorus... “Help my baby.” He said. Karen rushed to his side. “Are you OK?” “Help my baby.” He repeated. “We had an accident.” She led him to a place near the fire and returned to those tending the mosquito-bitten baby. “I think she’s OK,” she said to one of the other counselors. Karen turned back to the fire. “Did you say there was an accident?” The man was gone. ******************** Karen picked up the newspaper and read the headline. ”Former Resident, Susan Hill, Killed – Search for Missing Child Ends” “Susan Hill?” Karen asked out loud. The name was familiar. She continued to read. The search for a missing child comes to a happy and mysterious end. Former resident Susan Hill and her husband, Larry Smith, both wearing seatbelts were found dead in their car at the bottom of a ravine, after family members reported them missing. Authorities, alerted that Mr. and Mrs. Smith traveled with their six-month-old daughter, who was not in the vehicle at the time of the gruesome discovery, began an extensive search. Unable to find the child on the mountainside, they dragged the river bed. The search was called off, when local camp Counselor, Karen Grady, called authorities and reported, “A strange man came to our camp. He handed us a backpack with a young child in it.” She continued, “As the girls tended to the child, I turned to ask the man what happened, but he was gone.” Michael T. Smith mtsmith@qwestonline.com 2425B 6TH Street Fort Lee, New Jersey 07024 201-835-3478 Word Count: 1009 If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to your friends. My only request is that you include the link for your friends to join our family. To join our family, go to: http://subs.zinester.com/86758/ As promised, here is a list of great inspirational sites. I subscribe to all of them. You will love these sites. A good friend of mine has a new book out. You should check this out. Carol's been through rough times. She tells it all in her latest book. Carol Roach M.Ed, B.A. Publisher: Storytime Tapestry Author: Angels Watching Over Me:http://www.lulu.com/content/644485 Picking up the Pieces: A Woman's Journey: www.publishamerica.com To join Carol's story site, go to Storytime Tapestry at: http://archives.zinester.com/98907/ From my wonderful writing friend, Jan. She writes wonderful stories about her life and losing her sight. Janet Perez Eckles Faith and Love with a Latin Flair www.janetperezeckles.com Here's a good one by Linda Della Donna Freelance Writer www.littleredmailbox.com www.griefcase.blogspot.com www.storybone.blogspot.com "...and sometime when I wasn't looking, I got a new life." By my good friend Keith in Australia: http://www.agiftofinspiration.com.au/ My friend Phil runs http://www.peoplestuff.com.au/ Phil's awesome and brutally honest Zev, yes another friend, runs http://empoweringmessages.com/stories/ Heart Catchers is a wonderful site. www.DianeDeanWhite.com www.Heartwarmers.com and www.petwarmers.com are two wonderful story sites. http://hodu.com/ http://www.mydailyinsights.com/ www.ripplemaker.com http://www.sermonillustrator.org http://www.SkyWriting.Net Here's a newly discovered one I like: http://www.archive.zinester.com/9516 http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WarmFuzzyStories/ http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WithInSight/ If you, or anyone you know needs prayers for health concerns, struggles,etc visit www.janetperezeckles.com Janet's prayer group will respond. That's all I can think of right now. If I come up with more, I'll add them. Enjoy!!! I love your comments, Send them to msmith4@nj.rr.com. I'll include some in every post. Comments on my story, "Are You Hiding Under Your Tent?" Mike it's so nice to know you're totally human and have the courage to own up to not being perfect. You certainly aren't the only one who would like to go back to being that little boy/girl at times when life isn't going the way we wanted but we just can't afford the luxury of hiding until all is better. It's good Ginny took control making the two of you face up to reality. I love your stories and appreciate you taking the time to share them with us. I started receiving your stories quite awhile ago but lost them when I changed computers. It took awhile before I found one of your stories on another site. Many 'Thanks' again. Vel ************************** From my dearfriend Sandi Dear Mike, I'm sincerely sorry to read about your recent fall. How is your ankle now? Hopefully the pain and swelling have subsided, and with Ginny's able care and attention, you're feeling much better. Please be more careful, kind friend. By the way, I certainly loved your 'hiding under the tent' essay and can identify with many parts of it in my own life. Thank you for your insightful, creative, gifted writings! Blessings, Sandi. *********************** Hi Mike & Ginny! Hey...it's me....over here! Awesome story, as per usual! My friends just love hearing from me especially when they receive your stories and we just can't get enough! God sure blesses you. Remember FurrBee (spelling)? I'm 61 yo and my husband bought it for me last year. I'll never outgrow being a child...at least at heart! My mother-in-law, who will be 91 this November, asks for it every time she comes to visit...it brings her so much joy! Too bad we don't live closer.....we have a Mr. Potato Head too! Fondly, Cheri

Hi, Gang!

I'm sorry for not posting my mid-week story. Work is a real
bear lately. By the time I get home - around 8PM, I'm
exhausted. When I tally up my time sheet and add the
commute time to it, I'm coming close to 70 hours a week.

Today's story is an old one. I hope you enjoy it.

Tomorrow I will have something off the wall for you.
I'm anxiously waiting for an email. This is my weekend
to create a story for the "Writers Weekly 24-Hour Short
Story Contest."

They are going to send me a paragraph and tell me the maximum
word length. I have 24 hours to write a story around the
paragragh and have it submitted. Most times I'm up all night
working on this.

The probem is, you, my wonderful family of readers, usually
expect my stories be something to touch your heart or mind.
My contest stories tend to be something totally different.
I'll post my entry tomorrow along with a warning that the
story is not something you'd expect from me and to delete
it if you think you may be upset.
I'd rather you delete the story than lose you as a
member of our group.

Comments from last week's story will be included with
tomorrow's story. Ginny and I have some running around to do
today, so I can't add them right now.

    If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to
your friends. I only ask that you leave the link
at the bottom for them to join us.

    NOTE: IF YOU WISH TO STOP RECEIVING MY STORIES,
PLEASE USE THE UNSUBSCRIBE LINK BELOW. PLEASE DO NOT
MARK ME AS SPAM. MY STORIES ARE ONLY SENT TO THOSE
WHO SUBSCRIBE TO MY EZINE.

    I Love your comments.
    Send them to: msmith4@nj.rr.com

    If anyone is interested in greeting cards, Ginny
belongs to a group of artists. They've teamed together
to market their products. Check them out at:
http://www.etsygreetings.blogspot.com

    Ginny's cards and other crafts are at:
http://www.ginginsgoodies.etsy.com

    Be sure to check out my collection of inspirational
   
sites at the end. There's something for everyone.

    Now for today's story.

                          Just Imagine

    Ginny and I married in May of 2004. In the process, I gained
a new son, daughter and four grandsons - instant grandpa. I met
my new son, Brandon, a few months before we married., but I never
had the chance to meet Ginny's daughter, Heather, and Heather's
three small boys.

    Over the July 4th holiday of 2005, I got to meet them for
the first time. Heather, separated from her husband. She needed
a place to stay. Ginny and I flew to Oklahoma to drive them back
to New Jersey to live with us.

    It took a day for my new grandsons to warm up to me. The
first day they stared at me, wondering what they were suppose to
do with this man, who they were told is "grandpa." I waited
patiently. I knew boys like to play. They'd come to me in their
own time.

    On the second day, the oldest two were doing summersaults
over my lap. The youngest, Ben, took a little longer, but a few
days later he raced me across the yard thirty times and won the
race every time.

    That weekend brought back memories of my own childhood. We
had such imaginations. In our minds: a tree was a tower to spot
approaching bad guys; a big rock became mountain; a fallen log
was a space ship, headed to the stars. We had toys, but we
had to use our minds, not like the new toys I see my grandkids
with. Our toys didn't talk. If they did, you pulled a string to
make it work. We had blocks to build, crayons to create, and
trucks and cars to push. They were simple toys that required
imagination.

    I thought about the toys in my garage, the ones my children
outgrew. They're simple and needed their imagination to work.
"Mr. Potato Head" allowed them to learn the parts of the body
and giggle at the funny face with an ear where it's mouth should
be.

    I still have an old plastic phone. It has a dial to turn,
a bell that rings when you push a button, and that's it. It
doesn't talk, squawk, beep or move around the room. It
was used when they played house, nurse, doctor, and secretary.

    I have a toy doctor's bag, with all the plastic doctor's
tools. I remember the broken bones, cuts, bangs, scratches and
aches my daughter repaired, as I lay in her office moaning.

    Toys today do it all. Kids don't need imagination. It comes
in a box. There are videogames that take us into other worlds;
talking toys, with vocabularies better than most people; and
computerized toys to teach the alphabet. Kids sit and have
imagination brought to them. The teaching toys are great, but
children tire of them. It's like being in school.

    When my son was young and tired of his toys, he'd come to
me, "Dad, I'm bored."

    "Go find something to do." I'd replied.

    "I don't know what to do."

    "Go outside and find a friend."

    "Naaa! I don't want to do that."

    "Use your imagination."

    "Huh?" What do you mean?" he asked.

    "Well, when I was young......" You know the routine.

    Sports is the same. We're entertained for hours, watching
someone else have fun, doing what they are good at. Wouldn't it
be better to be playing yourself? If we don't like the sports
available to watch, we create new ones. It doesn't matter what,
people will pay to see it, because they need to be entertained.
I haven't heard of world championship worm digging, but if
someone offered a large cash price, people would buy tickets to
scream at the contestants.

    I worry. Are we becoming a society that needs outside
influence to have fun? I think I'll go climb a tree. Maybe
there's pirate ship on the horizon or someone is attacking
my castle.

    Just imagine?

    Michael T. Smith
 

     If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to your friends.
   
My only request is that you include the link for your friends to

join our family.

To join our family, go to:

http://subs.zinester.com/86758/

    As promised, here is a list of great inspirational sites.

I subscribe to all of them. You will love these sites.

    A good friend of mine has a new book out. You should check
this out. Carol's been through rough times. She tells it all
in her latest book.

Carol Roach
M.Ed, B.A.
Publisher: Storytime Tapestry
Author: Angels Watching Over Me:http://www.lulu.com/content/644485
Picking up the Pieces: A Woman's Journey: www.publishamerica.com

To join Carol's story site, go to Storytime Tapestry at:
http://archives.zinester.com/98907/

From my wonderful writing friend, Jan. She writes wonderful
stories about her life and losing her sight.
Janet Perez Eckles
Faith and Love with a Latin Flair
www.janetperezeckles.com

Here's a good one by Linda Della Donna
Freelance Writer
www.littleredmailbox.com
www.griefcase.blogspot.com
www.storybone.blogspot.com
"...and sometime when I wasn't looking, I got a new life."

By my good friend Keith in Australia:
http://www.agiftofinspiration.com.au/

My friend Phil runs http://www.peoplestuff.com.au/
Phil's awesome and brutally honest

Zev, yes another friend, runs http://empoweringmessages.com/stories/

Heart Catchers is a wonderful site.  www.DianeDeanWhite.com

www.Heartwarmers.com and www.petwarmers.com are two

wonderful story sites.

http://hodu.com/

http://www.mydailyinsights.com/

www.ripplemaker.com

http://www.sermonillustrator.org

http://www.SkyWriting.Net

Here's a newly discovered one I like:

http://www.archive.zinester.com/9516

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WarmFuzzyStories/

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WithInSight/

If you, or anyone you know needs prayers for health concerns,
struggles,etc visit www.janetperezeckles.com
Janet's prayer group will respond.

That's all I can think of right now. If I come up with

more, I'll add them.

Enjoy!!!

I love your comments, Send them to msmith4@nj.rr.com.

I'll include some in every post.

Hello, Gang! Happy Sunday or Monday, depending on where
you are in the world.

It's been hot and humid all weekend. Ginny and I did
get our-and-about, but kept it to a minimum.

Have you ever made a decision and discovered it was
a bad one? How did you correct it? It's not easy, is it?

Today's story tells about a decision my daughter and
I made. I'll say no more. You can read it below.

I'm also including some great photos of our adventure.
I pray you are safe and happy and that you enjoy today's
story from my heart.

    If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to
your friends. I only ask that you leave the link
at the bottom for them to join us.

    NOTE: IF YOU WISH TO STOP RECEIVING MY STORIES,
PLEASE USE THE UNSUBSCRIBE LINK BELOW. PLEASE DO NOT
MARK ME AS SPAM. MY STORIES ARE ONLY SENT TO THOSE
WHO SUBSCRIBE TO MY EZINE.

    I Love your comments.
    Send them to: msmith4@nj.rr.com

    If anyone is interested in greeting cards, Ginny
belongs to a group of artists. They've teamed together
to market their products. Check them out at:
http://www.etsygreetings.blogspot.com

    Ginny's cards and other crafts are at:
http://www.ginginsgoodies.etsy.com

    Be sure to check out my collection of inspirational
   
sites at the end. There's something for everyone.

    Now for today's story. This is one of my favorites.

                  Get on Your Behind and Slide

    Ginny and I took my daughter, Vanessa, to see the Kaaterskill
Falls, in the Catskill Mountains of New York State. The falls
are one hundred and twenty miles north of our home in New Jersey.

    We parked the car in the small lot and followed the narrow
shoulder of the mountain road, which snaked down the side of the
mountain. Cars passed dangerously close, as we made our way to
the base of a cool mountain stream. A sign announced "Falls -  0.5
Miles."

    The trail was well worn by the feet of those who'd made the
trek before us. On the steep parts, we grabbed trees for support.
Ginny, who suffered from a cold, took a break. She stretched out
on a rock, "Mike, I don't know if I can make it."

    Vanessa and I sat beside her. "It's OK, Gin." I held her hand.
A family passed us. The trail grew quiet. "Gin, do you hear it?"

    She sat up. "What?"

    "Listen! I think I hear the falls. It can't be too far away!"

    "Michael, I'm not sure I can make it."

    "I'll help you." I pleaded.

            *************************

    A half hour later, we stood panting at the base of Kaaterskill
Falls, the highest two-tiered waterfall in New York state. Two hundred
and sixty feet above us, a stream of water slipped over the edge of a
cliff, tumbled one hundred and eighty feet onto a shelf in the cliff,
formed a pool and then dropped another eighty feet to the base of the
falls. "Michael!" Ginny held my hand. "It's breathtaking! I'm so glad
I made it."

    "Dad, this is amazing!" Vanessa said in awe.

    Several people climbed the side of the mountain, walked along
the edge and stood at the side of the pool on the ledge eighty feet
above us. "Dad, that looks like fun. Let's try it! I want to see
the pool."

    Ginny waited at the base of the falls. Vanessa and I began to
climb. The higher we went, the steeper the side of the mountain
became. We climbed with the face of the mountain a few feet in front
of us. The loose soil, covered in pine needles, rolled like
marbles under our feet. With the help of tree branches and bushes,
we made our way close to the top, where we paused for breath.

    "Dad, I don't think I can make it to the top." My daughter panted.
Sweat ran down her forehead and into her eyes.

    I looked up and wiped my own sweat from my face. We were close
to the top, but the last few feet were steep and free of trees and
brush for support. I gave in. "You're right." I paused to catch my
breath. "Let's go back."

    We started down the mountain. I held a tree. "Vanessa, this is
scary!" On the way up, the side of the mountain was in our face.
On the way down, it sloped away from our feet. Our point of reference
was distorted. We were unsteady on our feet.

    Holding on to each other, trees, brush, and anything else we
could grasp, we slowly worked our way down the path we chose. If the
mountain was too steep, we sat on our behinds and slid or crawled
like crabs.

            *************************

    I held Ginny's hand, looked up the mountain, and wiped dirt
from my pants. Our decision to climb the mountain seemed like a
great idea, but we soon realized we'd made a mistake.

    We make decisions. Most are right for us, but there are times
when they're wrong. It's not easy to change our minds or correct
our past actions. Like the branches and bushes I held onto, we
have family and friends. When they offer support, grab onto them.
They'll support you.

    If all else fails, get on your behind and slide.

    Michael T. Smith
   

     If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to your friends.
   
My only request is that you include the link for your friends to

join our family.

To join our family, go to:

http://subs.zinester.com/86758/

    As promised, here is a list of great inspirational sites.

I subscribe to all of them. You will love these sites.

    A good friend of mine has a new book out. You should check
this out. Carol's been through rough times. She tells it all
in her latest book.

Carol Roach
M.Ed, B.A.
Publisher: Storytime Tapestry
Author: Angels Watching Over Me:http://www.lulu.com/content/644485
Picking up the Pieces: A Woman's Journey: www.publishamerica.com

To join Carol's story site, go to Storytime Tapestry at:
http://archives.zinester.com/98907/

From my wonderful writing friend, Jan. She writes wonderful
stories about her life and losing her sight.
Janet Perez Eckles
Faith and Love with a Latin Flair
www.janetperezeckles.com

Here's a good one by Linda Della Donna
Freelance Writer
www.littleredmailbox.com
www.griefcase.blogspot.com
www.storybone.blogspot.com
"...and sometime when I wasn't looking, I got a new life."

By my good friend Keith in Australia:
http://www.agiftofinspiration.com.au/

My friend Phil runs http://www.peoplestuff.com.au/
Phil's awesome and brutally honest

Zev, yes another friend, runs http://empoweringmessages.com/stories/

Heart Catchers is a wonderful site.  www.DianeDeanWhite.com

www.Heartwarmers.com and www.petwarmers.com are two

wonderful story sites.

http://hodu.com/

http://www.mydailyinsights.com/

www.ripplemaker.com

http://www.sermonillustrator.org

http://www.SkyWriting.Net

Here's a newly discovered one I like:

http://www.archive.zinester.com/9516

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WarmFuzzyStories/

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WithInSight/

If you, or anyone you know needs prayers for health concerns,
struggles,etc visit www.janetperezeckles.com
Janet's prayer group will respond.

That's all I can think of right now. If I come up with

more, I'll add them.

Enjoy!!!

I love your comments, Send them to msmith4@nj.rr.com.

I'll include some in every post.

Now for some comments on my last few stories:

Mike,

Just wanted to drop you a quick note and tell you I have
been praying for your son, his friends and their families
(regarding the wreck).  I know it must be awful for
everyone involved.  I pray that your son will realize
how blessed he is - that he was not in the car - and that
he will not experience "survivor guilt" from it. 
I pray that he will take away from this lessons about
the choices we make and how those can have devistating
consequences.  But I also pray that he will not allow fear
to keep him from making the hard choices and that he
will recieve the wisdom to know exactly what he should do
in all circumstances.  I also pray for strength and wisdom
for you and Ginny as you help him through this time.

Lisa

****************

Regarding an old story of mine called, "Life is a Bag of
Frozen Peas."

Hi,
I read your write up on life is like a frozen peas.Its of
great blessings.May God bless you and your new wife.
dickson.

****************

Mike,
    You truly have been blessed with an amazing
ability...being able to touch (and sometimes change)
people's lives through mere words, these words shared not
just across the continent, but around the world.  I have
heard that those with the most important purposes in life,
and those who are diligently following God's plan, are
those who suffer the greatest.  This suffering could be
through any number of things, sometimes it is the Devil
who is trying to make us stumble and fall out of God's
plan, but other times it is God helping us become even
stronger, and more capable than we already are to handle
the bigger or the final project that he has for us to do. 
I like the idea of the second part better, but I know that
we all have our stumbling blocks, that we must prove we
can overcome and still stay on the right path.

Julie

**************

I think this is the first of your stories I've had time
to read all the way through. I gather your Son was in a
wreck, a bad one.  When things happen to our children
it's the saddest time of our lives.

I loved your story of you and Ginny playing scrabble. 
I would be in a mess, maybe that is why I do get in
messes, I can't spell worth a hoot. But you took a game
and made a sermon out of it, a very inspirational one.

Charlotte H.

************

Michael,
Congratulations! I read your newsletter an  love the
story and the links you provide.
The contents are not only thought-provoking, but also
informative. And thanks so very much for including my link.
What a great guy you are!!
Regards my friend.

Janet Perez Eckles
Faith and Love with a Latin Flair
www.janetperezeckles.com
Visit my blog-nuggets of inspiration for the hurting heart

To unsubscribe, go to:
http://www.zinester.com/cgi/unsub.cgi?[%group_id%]&[%pid%]&[%phash%]

    This is my repeat night. I posted a story about my grandson,
Joshie, a while back. I wanted to post this one tonight.
As I reread it, I cried. The little booger made my day and everything
right.


    If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to
your friends. I only ask that you leave the link
at the bottom for them to join us.

    NOTE: IF YOU WISH TO STOP RECEIVING MY STORIES, PLEASE
USE THE UNSUBSCRIBE LINK BELOW. PLEASE DO NOT MARK ME AS SPAM.
MY STORIES ARE ONLY SENT TO THOSE WHO SUBSCRIBE TO MY EZINE.

    I Love your comments.
    Send them to: msmith4@nj.rr.com

    If anyone is interested in greeting cards, Ginny
belongs to a group of artists. They've teamed together
to market their products. Check them out at:
http://www.etsygreetings.blogspot.com


    Ginny's cards and other crafts are at:
http://www.ginginsgoodies.etsy.com


    Be sure to check out my collection of inspirational
   
sites at the end. There's something for everyone.


    Now for today's story.


                       Just Three Words

    July 1, 2005, I met my three grandchildren and my stepdaughter,
Heather, for the first time. She was having marital problems. We were
there to bring them back to New Jersey to live with us.

    Ginny and I walked through the airport in Oklahoma. "There they are!" she said.

     "Where," I asked, looking around.

    "There!" Ginny pointed.

    I saw a beautiful young lady and two boys - ages three and
five - the oldest two. They stared at me. Heather and Ginny hugged.
Ginny turned to the boys and opened her arms, "Joshie! Seth Man! I
missed you!"

    They ran into her arms. It'd been a year since they'd seen
their Gingin. Her hugs were needed. Grandmother hugs are the best.
Ginny stood. Heather and the boys stared at me - the unknown grandpa.

    Heather was polite, but I could sense the doubt. Who was this
man? I would have to convince her, I wasn't replacing her dad. Her
dad was in Heaven now. I was just a man who loved her mom.

    Joshie and Seth were too shy to look at me. They stood,
side-by-side, their eyes passing from Ginny and Heather, with only
quick glances in my direction. Their eyes said it all, "Is that
our new Poppa?"

    We shared hugs and went back to their house, where I met
Benny and his other grandma - Sonja. Benny was the youngest of
the three and even more afraid of me.

    The next day, the older boys were doing flips over my lap
and laughing. Benny hugged Sonja, still scared of me. The following
day, we packed the kids in the car and headed for New Jersey.

    My life changed. My house had been full of breakable and
memorable things. In a few weeks they were gone. I hid them in
closets and drawers. Our bedroom became a storage room. There
are only so many times you can tell a child not to touch something
before you realize, they can't help it. I packed it all away!

    Ginny and I used to spend time talking or reading, when I
came home from work, but with the grandkids there, we would be
interrupted. It was a new life. The quiet times were gone.

    A year later, Heather and the boys are leaving on a new
adventure. The boys were visiting their Dad in Oklahoma and
would join their mom in Idaho in a few months. Our house is
empty. We have our life again - or do we?

    I was up at 5 AM to see them off on their trip to see
their Dad. Their bags were packed and loaded in the car. We
grabbed the last of their stuff, clamored down the steps,
and opened the car doors.

    Benny and Seth jumped in, excited about the trip and
seeing their dad. I gave them the best hugs I could, considering
they were in such a hurry. Tears formed in my eyes. They'd been
a thorn in my side, but I'd grown used to those thorns.

    I buckled Benny in his car seat, stood, and heard, "Poppa
Mike?"

    I turned toward the voice. Joshie stood staring at me.
He'd snuck around the back of the car. "Yes, Joshie?"

    "I love you."

    "I love you too, Joshie," I said. Big tears began to
roll down my cheeks. "I love you too, buddy. I'll miss you.
Be a good boy for your daddy."

    The car pulled away.   

    I went into the house and looked around. There were a
few small toys scattered about. A plastic block lay in a
corner. In the kitchen was a pack of Crayons. Behind the
sofa was a cart full of Leggos©.

    My house was almost bare of their toys but full of
memories.

    A few days later, I sat in the living room and noticed
the scratch marks on my teak coffee table. They were the
marks from a "Bob the Builder" plastic saw. When I first
saw those marks, I was so angry, I stomped out of the house
and took a long walk to cool my temper.

    I thought of all the breakables hidden in closets.
Memories of a broken lamp, stomping feet, yelling, screaming,
crying, interrupted conversations, spilled drinks and sprayed
food flashed through my mind. It had been a rough year for me.
I had a hard time adjusting to having young kids in the house.

    A little boy walked around the back of the car and
said, "I LOVE YOU!" The stress, cries, scratches on tables,
stains in carpets, tablecloths cut with scissors, screams,
nicks, marks, and broken furniture were forgiven.

    Joshie, the one who was the most troublesome, made it
right. He was the middle child, struggling to be acknowledged
before his brothers. He said three words. That's all it took,
just three powerful words - I LOVE YOU!

Michael T. Smith

     If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to your friends.
   
My only request is that you include the link for your friends to

join our family.

To join our family, go to:

http://subs.zinester.com/86758/

    As promised, here is a list of great inspirational sites.

I subscribe to all of them. You will love these sites.

    A good friend of mine has a new book out. You should check
this out. Carol's been through rough times. She tells it all
in her latest book.

Carol Roach
M.Ed, B.A.
Publisher: Storytime Tapestry
Author: Angels Watching Over Me:http://www.lulu.com/content/644485
Picking up the Pieces: A Woman's Journey: www.publishamerica.com

To join Carol's story site, go to Storytime Tapestry at:
http://archives.zinester.com/98907/

Here's a good one by Linda Della Donna
Freelance Writer
www.littleredmailbox.com
www.griefcase.blogspot.com
www.storybone.blogspot.com
"...and sometime when I wasn't looking, I got a new life."

By my good friend Keith in Australia:
http://www.agiftofinspiration.com.au/

My friend Phil runs http://www.peoplestuff.com.au/
Phil's awesome and brutally honest

Zev, yes another friend, runs http://empoweringmessages.com/stories/

Heart Catchers is a wonderful site.  www.DianeDeanWhite.com

www.Heartwarmers.com and www.petwarmers.com are two

wonderful story sites.

http://hodu.com/

http://www.mydailyinsights.com/

www.ripplemaker.com

http://www.sermonillustrator.org

http://www.SkyWriting.Net

Here's a newly discovered one I like:

http://www.archive.zinester.com/9516

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WarmFuzzyStories/

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WithInSight/

If you, or anyone you know needs prayers for health concerns,
struggles,etc visit www.janetperezeckles.com
Janet's prayer group will respond.

That's all I can think of right now. If I come up with

more, I'll add them.

Enjoy!!!


I love your comments, Send them to msmith4@nj.rr.com.

I'll include some in every post.

Now for some comments on my last few stories:

Hi
 
Thank you for the link about Paul Potts (on Britain's
Got Talent) I always watch American Idol and the X-Factor.
Although I live in the UK I wasn't able to watch BGT.
Paul Potts is amazing, I was smiling and crying at
the same time.

Thanks for sharing

Kindest regards,
Sadhana

**********************8

Your stories just keep getting better and better! 
The parallels in your stories make me more aware
of the ones in my life. Keep the pencil sharpened. 
Oops! That remark shows my age.  We use computers now! :)
Re: Paul Potts ~~~~ He is absolutely incredible.  I
had seen his videos several times before your email
arrived but had to go back and watch them all over
again.  The tears arrive from my heart every time I
hear him sing.

Linda

*****************

I always told you the bag of peas story was a winner
and the video is a tear jerker, as well!

That was from my other Mom - Liz

**************

Dear Michael

It's been a while since I've replied to your wonderful
stories - thank you so much for the care you take to
share your heart.  I am so grateful to you for sending
this link to Paul Potts' singing - it started my
morning with tears streaming down my face and opened
my heart a little wider.  Bless you for that.  And
your story is very poignant today as my mum is dying,
and all around our family there is enormous change
as death brings its decay slowly and everything
withers like the vegetables in your garden.  However
yesterday I picked a single vibrant flower and put
it in a vase by my sink, reminding me to keep flowering
and keep shining a light inspite of the many changes. 
Thank you for shining your light on me today.

with love Rachel

**************

This one is about a preious story used on another site.
It was called "Life is a Bag of Frozen Peas.
 thanks Mike , glad to see your reply,you surely  are 
 doing  a  tremendous job  with  your  inspirational 
 stories,you  could  never  know  just  how many 
 lives you  are  touching  and  saving  just  by 
 taking  time out  to   write and  reach  out  to 
 people. i  subscribed   to receive your
weekly  articles  and will  be expecting  them .
thanks once  again

all the best .
shingi

***************

I've cried several times - not boo hoo crying, but
lots of tears have welled up in my eyes.  I can't
believe he hasn't been discovered before this.  I'm
not an opera fan but definitely would pay for one
of his CD's.   I know Simon will help him along the
way to true stardom.  After all, it will be money
in Simon's pocket.  I think I heard that he'll start
recording right away.

Bedtime and it's even later where you are!  Good
night to you and your Ginny.

Linda

    I'm in awe tonight, Gang!

    First, our family is close to 1300 strong. I thrilled and
scared at the same time. Many people have joined our family
to read great stories. It's my job to produce them.

    Welcome to all our new members.
   
    Most of our new members joined, because they read a story
of mine about grief - Life is a Bag of Frozen Peas.

    While responding to one of the readers, I coined a new
line. That line became the story I'm posting tonight.

    Before tonight's story, I have something special to
share with you. I'm sure a lot of you are American Idol
fans. The show originated in Britain. They have a show there
called, "Britain's Got Talent."

    Some of you may have seen this already, but I welcome you to
enjoy it again. A very humble man won the contest. His voice is the
next master. I've watched these videos over-and-over.
A star is born.

   You will not believe this voice. Those of you familiar
with the show, know that Simon is one tough nut. Watch his face in
these three vidoes. Paul got to him.

    Paul Potts is a star!
   
    This is Paul's audition:
   
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1k08yxu57NA
   

    This is Paul's semifinal preformance:
    http://youtube.com/watch?v=b3LgpI-bAk4&mode=related&search=

    Here is Paul's winning preformance:
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_5W4t_CBzg&NR=1

    If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to
your friends. I only ask that you leave the link
at the bottom for them to join us.

    NOTE: IF YOU WISH TO STOP RECEIVING MY STORIES, PLEASE
USE THE UNSUBSCRIBE LINK BELOW. PLEASE DO NOT MARK ME AS SPAM.
MY STORIES ARE ONLY SENT TO THOSE WHO SUBSCRIBE TO MY EZINE.

    I Love your comments.
    Send them to: msmith4@nj.rr.com

    If anyone is interested in greeting cards, Ginny
belongs to a group of artists. They've teamed together
to market their products. Check them out at:
http://www.etsygreetings.blogspot.com

    Ginny's cards and other crafts are at:
http://www.ginginsgoodies.etsy.com

    Be sure to check out my collection of inspirational
   
sites at the end. There's something for everyone.

    Now for today's story.

                     In The Garden of Grief

    I walked through the garden. A cool breeze lifted dried leaves
and spun them around my feet. The last of the leaf lettuce were clumps
of black and wilted leaves. A few zucchinis clung to life, but were too
small to pick. They'd never reach their peak.

    Tomato plants hung limp from their hangers.  The potato patch
was a barren wasteland. They'd been dug up and stored weeks ago. The
carrots, not big enough to pull up, would soon follow the tomatoes.

    A pumpkin reflected the sunlight. Its orange skin glowed. Behind
it, a sunflower, once strong and tall, drooped close to the ground. Birds
fed off the seeds it worked so hard to produce.

    I turned. Dust lifted from my feet. The dry soil, denied of rain,
lifted in the air and floated away. The peas and beans were gone. We'd
cooked and put them in jars a few weeks ago. The plants that remained,
struggled to survive.

    I was in a garden of death.

    A spark of color caught my eye. In the back corner of my garden,
a hardy marigold reached to the sky. It was small, but it was sturdy.
Death circled this little flower. It ignored it. The marigold was not
done. It still filled the world with color - with love.

    The garden became my life. I wandered through the dust. In October,
2003, my flower, my wife, wilted and died. The dust of life lifted from
my feet and drifted away in the breeze.

    In the back of the garden, I saw the marigold. Its mate succumbed
to the seasons as mine did. Her mate was gone. The seasons took her
love away, but she was strong.

    I picked it and held it in my hands. The marigold was Ginny. She
became my new wife - my new life.

    In the garden of grief, love can bloom again.

Michael T. Smith

     If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to your friends.
   
My only request is that you include the link for your friends to

join our family.

To join our family, go to:

http://subs.zinester.com/86758/

    As promised, here is a list of great inspirational sites.

I subscribe to all of them. You will love these sites.

    A good friend of mine has a new book out. You should check
this out. Carol's been through rough times. She tells it all
in her latest book.

Carol Roach
M.Ed, B.A.
Publisher: Storytime Tapestry
Author: Angels Watching Over Me:http://www.lulu.com/content/644485
Picking up the Pieces: A Woman's Journey: www.publishamerica.com

To join Carol's story site, go to Storytime Tapestry at:
http://archives.zinester.com/98907/

Here's a good one by Linda Della Donna
Freelance Writer
www.littleredmailbox.com
www.griefcase.blogspot.com
www.storybone.blogspot.com
"...and sometime when I wasn't looking, I got a new life."

By my good friend Keith in Australia:
http://www.agiftofinspiration.com.au/

My friend Phil runs http://www.peoplestuff.com.au/
Phil's awesome and brutally honest

Zev, yes another friend, runs http://empoweringmessages.com/stories/

Heart Catchers is a wonderful site.  www.DianeDeanWhite.com

www.Heartwarmers.com and www.petwarmers.com are two

wonderful story sites.

http://hodu.com/

http://www.mydailyinsights.com/

www.ripplemaker.com

http://www.sermonillustrator.org

http://www.SkyWriting.Net

Here's a newly discovered one I like:

http://www.archive.zinester.com/9516

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WarmFuzzyStories/

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WithInSight/

If you, or anyone you know needs prayers for health concerns,
struggles,etc visit www.janetperezeckles.com
Janet's prayer group will respond.

That's all I can think of right now. If I come up with

more, I'll add them.

Enjoy!!!

I love your comments, Send them to msmith4@nj.rr.com.

I'll include some in every post.

Now for some comments on my last few stories:

    Mike,
   I am sort of new to your 'story-letters' as I have
only been receiving them a little over two or three months.
I enjoy each and everyone of the stories that you choose
to put in each posting of 'Hearts and Humor" and didn't
realize until this last week how much I miss the "Hearts and
Humor" newsletters when your work or other things keep
you from being able to write and send them out.  Normally I
only check my emails while I am at work on Tuesdays - Thursdays
since I work as a Computer Lab Monitor at my local community
college and have a lot of free time in between helping students
when they need it.  So when I didn't see the usual "Hearts and
Humor" in my email through this last week, I wondered if
something happened, and hoped that nothing bad happened.

    Now to the point of my sending this reply on "Hoo Hoo Fraks". 
Children - especially Josh's age range of 2-5 - are the center of
my heart.  I recently received my Associates for Early Childhood
\Education and am praying about where and when to open a
preschool that will help today's children learn all the things
they will need to know to survive in today's world; mentally,
physically, emotionally and spiritually.  As I mentioned e
arlier, I am normally not working on Friday's, but was given
the opportunity to work today, so I gladly took that chance. 
Friday's are quite slow and usually very quiet around our
small community campus, except for today.  I had the wonderful
\(albeit most would not agree it was so wonderful) privilege
of hearing a very happy and very loudly shrieking child of
maybe two, enjoying being alive.  With the way the building
echo's it almost sounded as if I was in the buildings in zoo's
that are set aside for the primates, and a Shrieking Monkey
was enjoying life instead of a little child.  A short few minutes
later the mother of this child brought him and another older
girl into my computer lab to work on some school work. 
(Thankfully the mother did not scold the child while she was
here for being loud and enjoying life.)  I quickly went and got
the box of toys that we keep at the front desk for children to
occupy themselves while their parents are working or studying. 
After I had set it down for the two children to play with, I had
another enjoyable privilege of hearing the little boy talking
and chattering in "Toddler-ese" about a doll that he chose out
of the rest of the toys to play with.  It is their own special
language they use that really pulls my heartstrings and brings
joy and happiness to my days; so when I read "Hoo Hoos and Fraks"
shortly after the mother and these two children left, happy
tears started filling my eyes.  Reading it, I felt like I was
right there on the train watching and hearing Josh's excitement. 

Thank you for the little blessings that you bring with each and
every "Hearts and Humor" posting.

 God bless, Julie

Hi, Gang.

    Happy Thursday to all of you. I just got in from my
local writing group, where I received great advice to
improve my "Don't Jump The Track" story.

    I wanted to write something good about my father,
but to be honest, I don't have a lot of good memories
of him.

    Tonights story is a reworked version of a story
I wrote a few years ago. It's not a happy story, but it
is true.

    If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to
your friends. I only ask that you leave the link
at the bottom for them to join us.

    NOTE: IF YOU WISH TO STOP RECEIVING MY STORIES, PLEASE
USE THE UNSUBSCRIBE LINK BELOW. PLEASE DO NOT MARK ME AS SPAM.
MY STORIES ARE ONLY SENT TO THOSE WHO SUBSCRIBE TO MY EZINE.

    I Love your comments.
    Send them to: msmith4@nj.rr.com

    If anyone is interested in greeting cards, Ginny
belongs to a group of artists. They've teamed together
to market their products. Check them out at:
http://www.etsygreetings.blogspot.com

    Ginny's cards and other crafts are at:
http://www.ginginsgoodies.etsy.com

    Be sure to check out my collection of inspirational
   
sites at the end. There's something for everyone.

    Now for today's story.

                  Right From Wrong

    I was the youngest of three boys. We lived in a four-room
house with our parents. Dad liked to say we had four rooms and
a path. He referred to the well-worn trail to our outhouse. We
didn't have hot-running water. We heated water in pots on an
oil stove, poured it into a bucket, grabbed a facecloth and towel
and washed in the privacy of our rooms. We washed our hair in
the kitchen sink

    We were poor.

    Dad had a job, but he spent most of the money on alcohol.
There were many nights when I would wake to loud voices. I'd
lay still and listen, aware it was Thursday night, and like every
Thursday, Dad had come home drunk. Thursday was payday for my
father. After work, he and his co-workers went to the tavern and
drink. It was the start of four days of hell. On Friday, he'd go
to work hung over and return in the evening drunk again. For the
rest of the weekend, he'd drink with his buddies.

    He came home drunk one evening, got out of the car, lost his
balance, staggered twenty feet, and smashed his head into the
front porch. He was that drunk and somehow driven home.

    Dad was nasty when he drank - not violent, just mean. He'd
yell at us for the smallest thing. Even though we tried not to
disturb him, he'd lash out with complaints about our behavior.
There was no pleasing the man. Four days of the week we cowered
from him.

    I know more about him now, and can even understand his
bitterness toward the world. He was born out of wedlock, and
spent many years in a Catholic orphanage. The abuse he received
there - I don't want to think.

    As the school week wound down, my stress increased. I knew
the weekend was coming. The drinking and arguing were near.

    How did Mum tolerate him? It's mystery to me. She had no
where to go. Where would she be able to support three boys on
her own. She stayed for us. My biggest fear? She'd give up, walk
out, and leave us with our father.

    I was in the first grade and sitting in my classroom one
morning. We had large windows. I could see my house and the store
across the street from it. We had a small bus service. It came
twice a day and took people to the city and back.

    The bus pulled up. A lady with a red jacket boarded. My mom
had a red jacket! I started to cry in front of my classmates.
Mom was leaving!

    The teacher calmed me. "Michael, your Mum wouldn't leave you.
She loves you."

    I wasn't convinced. The lunch bell rang. I rushed home and
found Mum making my lunch. I ran up, clutched her around the
waist and cried.

    Mum did everything for Dad. She made his lunches, cleaned,
cooked, and took care of us. Dad did little. He worked and in
the evening he sat.

    If I needed his help, I refused to ask for it. If I asked,
I knew he would get angry at me for interrupting his TV time. 
When he came home from work, he expected his dinner waiting and
complain about the lunch made for him that day.

    I was afraid to ask him for anything.

    The chain on my bike was loose and would fall off the sprocket.
It took me forever to figure out how to tighten it myself, but
I did it.

    I learned to do things myself - the hard way.

    My brothers grew older, got their driver's license, and were
blamed for every mark, dent, or scratch on the car. I got my
license and refused to drive Dad's car. I was not going to be
blamed for anything that happened. I walked or biked and gave Dad no
excuse to yell at me.

    Christmas was bad. He'd be drunk on Christmas day and have
no patience for smalls boys enjoying new toys. There would be
more fighting than laughter from my parents. When my brothers
and I were older and slept late in on Christmas morning, Dad
would come to our room - drunk as usual - and wake us. He
expected us to be the kids he ignored. We'd groan and tell to
go sleep it off. He wanted to make up for what he missed out
on when we were younger, but the damage was done.

    One night, when I was a teenager, he was sitting at the
kitchen table - drunk. The look in his eyes was a warning. They
were red and evil. "Why don't you go to bed? " He snarled.

    I knew best. I went to bed.

    I tried to sleep, but I heard the distinct sound of his
shotgun being loaded. I snuck from my room and saw him going
out the door with his gun.

    I rushed up and grabbed the barrel, "Dad! No! Let me have
the gun. Go to bed."

    "Son, let me do it." he said. "I'm no good."

    "Dad, please! Go to bed."

    He loosened his grip on the gun, allowed me to take it
from his hands, and staggered to the bedroom.

    I learned a lot of things from my Dad. I learned how not
to treat my wife. I learned to make my own lunch and not expect
my wife to make it. I learned it's wrong for a man not to
complain about cooking and cleaning., cooking and cleaning are
a team efforts, and to give my children love and attention.

    Dad didn't teach by example. He did it by making me aware
of what is wrong. His drinking caused a lot trouble, but all
three of his boys became better people because of his wrong.

    Dad passed away in the early '90's. Mom, a strong and
beautiful woman, was freed from his abuse. My brothers and
I said, "Now Mum is free to enjoy her life."

    I don't hate my Dad. He was my dad. He gave me life. I
can't hate him for that. However, I'm disappointed he never
experienced the good things a family can provide.

    Dad, I love you. One day we will be able to meet again.
I will hug you and forgive you.

        Michael T. Smith

     If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to your friends.
   
My only request is that you include the link for your friends to

join our family.

To join our family, go to:

http://subs.zinester.com/86758/

    As promised, here is a list of great inspirational sites.

I subscribe to all of them. You will love these sites.

    A good friend of mine has a new book out. You should check
this out. Carol's been through rough times. She tells it all
in her latest book.

Carol Roach
M.Ed, B.A.
Publisher: Storytime Tapestry
Author: Angels Watching Over Me:http://www.lulu.com/content/644485
Picking up the Pieces: A Woman's Journey: www.publishamerica.com

To join Carol's story site, go to Storytime Tapestry at:
http://archives.zinester.com/98907/

Here's a good one by Linda Della Donna
Freelance Writer
www.littleredmailbox.com
www.griefcase.blogspot.com
www.storybone.blogspot.com
"...and sometime when I wasn't looking, I got a new life."

By my good friend Keith in Australia:
http://www.agiftofinspiration.com.au/

My friend Phil runs http://www.peoplestuff.com.au/
Phil's awesome and brutally honest

Zev, yes another friend, runs http://empoweringmessages.com/stories/

Heart Catchers is a wonderful site.  www.DianeDeanWhite.com

www.Heartwarmers.com and www.petwarmers.com are two

wonderful story sites.

http://hodu.com/

http://www.mydailyinsights.com/

www.ripplemaker.com

http://www.sermonillustrator.org

http://www.SkyWriting.Net

Here's a newly discovered one I like:

http://www.archive.zinester.com/9516

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WarmFuzzyStories/

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WithInSight/

If you, or anyone you know needs prayers for health concerns,
struggles,etc visit www.janetperezeckles.com
Janet's prayer group will respond.

That's all I can think of right now. If I come up with

more, I'll add them.

Enjoy!!!

I love your comments, Send them to msmith4@nj.rr.com.

I'll include some in every post.

Now for some comments on my last few stories:

From my good friend and inspirationalist in AU

Great story - great message buddy !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
There's no future in looking back along that track of life!
Love and cheers from a now sunny Oz - a beautiful day Mike

Lucky Phil

A link to Phil's page is in the list above.

Hi, Gang! It's late on a Sunday night - actually, very
early on a Monday morning. I'll keep this short. I have to work
tomorrow.

I had an idea for a story today, but it just wasn't working for me.
Instead, I went to my list of story ideas. This one seemed right.
It spoke tome. Now I hope it speaks to you.

Before or after the story, please enjoy a few wonderful links.
From my friend Phread: http://mothersdayforpeace.com
It's beautiful.

From a friend I've never met (Bob Perks, I'm not stealing your line)
Keith runs a wonderful site. Find his link below. Today
he sent the following:
I trust you enjoy and value watching this inspirational image .
To view this image you may need to allow download of the file
on your internet browser, once completed - allow about 45 seconds
for this image to download and open.
http://www.itsinthemail.com.au/sendlink.asp?HitID=1180874134828&StID=3871&SID=9&EmID=2066330&Link=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.agiftofinspiration.com.au%2Ffiles%2FMagnificant_Photos_and_Quotes_-_Volume_No_1.pps
I hope it works. The last quote is from Keith himself.

Now for today's story.

It Took Control

In the corner of our backyard, against the fence, is a huge
forsythia bush. A maple tree rose through its center and towered
over it. They made an impressive team. Birds used them for shelter
when they came to eat at our feeders.

A sliver of grapevine was placed carefully in the dark earth
on our neighbor's side of the fence. It took root. One year it
topped the fence and climbed along its edge. A few years later,
it reached the forsythia bush, and slowly engulfed it. The vine
climbed the bush and reached the maple.

The maple, the forsythia, and the grapevine became a mass
of green. When storms rolled in off the Atlantic Ocean, the tree,
the bush and the vine moved as one. They were a green mass of
leaves, swaying in the wind. We called it "The Green Monster."

One year, I went to Google© satellite and punched up our
address. Our home was easily identified by the mass of green
in the corner of our yard. The grape vine swallowed the two trees.
It used them like an addiction

*******************************

A storm formed in the south Atlantic. For several days, we
experienced heat and humidity in the north. The storm moved in
our direction. The winds began to pick up. Rain began to fall.
The combination of maple, forsythia, and the grapevine swayed as
one. The maple, under the weight of its burden, bent. There was
a loud snap. Its trunk could bare the burden no more. The tree
lay in a tangle on the lawn. Its leaves began to shrivel from
the lack of life blood. It was over.

Georgia, my first wife, had a grapevine - alcohol. She lived
with it for a long time. It engulfed her. Its weight became too
much. It weighed her down. She shriveled and died.

There are grapevines weighing many people down. Is it drink?
Nicotine? Drugs? Georgia should have trimmed that vine a long
time ago. She waited too long. It's too late now. The tree is
down. It took control.


Michael T. Smith

If you enjoy a story, feel free to pass it on to your friends.

My only request is that you include the link for your friends to

join our family.

To join our family, go to:

http://subs. zinester.com/ 86758/

REMOVE THE SPACES TO GET TO THE SITE. SPAM BLOCKERS ARE

HURTING EZINES. DON'T LET THEM PREVENT YOU FROM READING

GREAT STORIES.


As promised, here is a list of great inspirational sites.

I subscribe to all of them. You will love these sites.


Run by my friend Carol, Storytime Tapestry at:

http://archives.zinester.com/98907/

Here's a new one that crosssed my path today:
Linda Della Donna
Freelance Writer
www.littleredmailbox.com
www.griefcase.blogspot.com
www.storybone.blogspot.com
"...and sometime when I wasn't looking, I got a new life."

By my good friend Keith in Australia:
http://www.agiftofinspiration.com.au/

My friend Phil runs http://www.peoplestuff.com.au/
Phil's awesome and brutally honest

Zev, yes another friend, runs http://empoweringmessages.com/stories/

Heart Catchers is a wonderful site. www.DianeDeanWhite.com

www.Heartwarmers.com and www.petwarmers.com are two

wonderful story sites.

http://hodu.com/

http://www.mydailyinsights.com/

www.ripplemaker.com

http://www.sermonillustrator.org

http://www.SkyWriting.Net

Here's a newly discovered one I like:

http://www.archive.zinester.com/9516

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WarmFuzzyStories/

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WithInSight/

If you, or anyone you know needs prayers for health concerns,
struggles,etc visit www.janetperezeckles.com
Janet's prayer group will respond.

That's all I can think of right now. If I come up with

more, I'll add them.

Enjoy!!!


I love your comments, Send them to msmith4@nj.rr.com.

I'll include some in every post.

Now for some comments on my last few stories:

I so enjoyed reading about the two of you meeting and
the wedding pictures, even though I must admit it did
make my eyes "leak"!! That will be one I will save in
"My Special Folder. Thank you so very much.

As one who has failed at two marriages - one 30 years
and one 4 years in length - I hope some day I can say
that my "soul mate" has come into my life....but I am
glad that I can lean on the Lord for His encouragement
and at times comfort.

Always read your emails - don't respond very often, but
keep up the good work.
Always,
Beth

***********************