From the doorway, Penelope scanned her mother’s crowded living room for a friendly face. Golden sunlight poured through picture windows. The lake lay in the distance. Sailboats chased the breeze. ‘Oh, to be on a boat…’ She gave her mother, Diane, credit. She knew how to entertain. ‘Who actually has…

A clock’s last tock Winter inspected her sun room anticipating her sisters’ arrival. Spring, Summer and Autumn were due for their annual planning session. Being the eldest, Winter wanted everything in perfect order. She dressed in traditional black. Her sisters preferred the graceful styles depicted in Arthur Rackham’s fantasy illustrations…

How fitting… — Mary walked from one gloomy room to another, feeling she had awakened from a deep sleep. ‘Is this how Sleeping Beauty felt after years of slumber?’ Still groggy, she struggled to understand. It felt like ages since she felt at peace with herself. Days and weeks passed without definition. …

I used to envy people bragging on their family trees and illustrious histories. So many royals, battles, and mansions on the hill. Named for a general? That’s a medal once worn by Napoleon? Cool. The conversation always stalled when I asked, ‘And what great things have you done?’ …

James looked at Linda, “That’s not only absurd. It’s ridiculous.” “Oh, really?” He nodded with a finality she had learned to challenge only with the best arguments. He would stand his ground to the very end. And perhaps beyond it. She thought, ‘This is so much fun…’ They were finishing…

— Another Tony Adventure Tony, Antonia’s stuffed panda, tried to control his excitement. He watched the commotion of prepping for a family excursion to the woods. Anticipation made him quiver with excitement. Not wanting to be left behind, he sat amidst the chaos. Tony always wanted to go on a…

What’s the key? Meredith stared out the window while Trevor bustled about the kitchen preparing to leave. “More coffee?” he asked while refilling her cup. She didn’t respond. “I’m going now. I won’t be late. Anything else?” “What time?” “I’ll stop by the ‘Door’ and then I’ll be home.” She…

Shelby Rappaport stood at center stage awaiting the curtain’s rise. He could hear the audience anticipation. What a delicious moment. He loved opening night. They gathered to see him. Yes, they came for a performance. His performance. No one came for the play. Not when he starred. A delectable variety…

Becky slipped ‘Little Girl Etiquette,’ under her seat cushion. Last minute cribbing wouldn’t do. The chapter on tea parties taught her so much. This would be her first tea party. She planned for perfection. The white garden table, set with dainty cups and saucers, looked exactly like the picture in…