Thursday, April 17, 2014

O'Malley's Flower at Utah Children's Writers

I'm very glad to announce that the wonderful folks at Utah Children's Writers have once again chosen to post one of my tales as part of their annual "30 Days, 30 Stories" series. They're a great group of bloggers and worth a spot on your blog roll.

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30 Days, 30 Stories

My first short story, Grandpa's Unicorn Tale, appeared there in April of 2012.
Immorality's Kiss was my contribution in April 2013.

For this year, I submitted O'Malley's Flower. This was my first attempt (an experiment really) at telling a story in verse. I'm no poet, but I did enjoy putting this one together. And at a smidgeon over 400 words, it's a short read.

Since Myra died (nine months ago today) writing has been a challenge. This is one I think she would have liked though.

36 comments:

  1. Congratulations, Jeff! I'm sure she would've loved it and been happy you were writing again.

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    1. Bummer, I can't get the links to work. I'll try later or if you have a moment, email me, Jeff.

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    2. Thanks, Alex. Not sure what the problem might have been with the links.

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  2. Well done on the narrative poem, Jeff. And I'm so sorry to hear about your wife. I'm sure she would have loved this. It's got quite the cadence--something I could myself reading to my children at bedtime.

    Writing was also difficult for me after the ending of my nine year relationship and engagement. With time, I slowly found my way back to it. It seems to have found its way back to you as well. :)

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    1. Emotional upheaval can trigger bursts of creativity for one and writer's block for another, I suppose. One would think I'd find it easier knowing she wanted me to keep writing. I guess it just takes time to rewire all those neurons. :)

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  3. Congrats on placing this lovely poem somewhere. I knew it was worthy when I first read it.

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    1. A thumbs-up from you means a lot to me, Patrick.

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  4. I love it - and am sure that Myra would have too. And loved even more that you are writing again.

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    1. Thank you. Each time I start (and finish) something makes the next one a little easier.

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  5. Congratulations, Jeff

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  6. So exciting! Congrats!!

    Do you live in Utah? If so, how do I not know this?!

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    1. Peggy, if I lived in Utah, then I'd be stalking you at Salt Lake Comic Con right about now! :) UT is a long drive from NC, but it's a drive I may one day take.

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  7. Congratulations again! Yes, I am sure she would have LOVED it. I do. :)

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  8. Congrats on getting picked and I bet she would cheer you on too.

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    1. You put a smile on my face, Sheena-kay. I love the thought that she's cheering. :)

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  9. Congrats on getting in for the third year! I hope this gets you writing again. Myra will love all your stories, and probably wants to see you get them out in public.

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    1. Myra wanted me to publish everything I ever wrote! No wife was ever more supportive. It really did feel good to write this one too.

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  10. Poetry eh? Didn't know you went in for that Sir Jeff. Would love to read your latest.

    Hugs from the dragon's grandmother.

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    1. Poetry isn't my standard modus operandi, Jo, but a few rhymes have emerged here and there. The urge to do this struck me while watching the "Jack the Giant Slayer" movie last year. I finally scratched the itch. :)

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  11. Congrats Jeff! Writing in verse can be quite the challenge and really fun to read. Way to go!

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    1. Thank you, Nicole. Funny thing was once I'd got my mind in "verse gear" I couldn't get it back into normal gear. For hours, I kept speaking and writing in rhymes.

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  12. I think sometimes when life is cadiwumpus trying something new is a great way of getting out of the rut. It's new and it's different. Occupies and challenges your mind. Glad you tried it and like the results, Jeff. Hugs.

    Sia McKye Over Coffee

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    1. My "rut" these past few months has been seldom taking the time to write, so that's one rut I needed to escape. I'm slowly succeeding at it. :) And thanks for the hugs. They're always appreciated.

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  13. I bet she's as proud of you know as she was on earth. You're a talented guy with a very special muse and guardian angel.

    Now I must go read the story. Congratulations on being selected!!

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    1. Thank you, Elizabeth. She's always been my inspiration.

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  14. Congrats, Jeff! The poem is great, especially that lovely end. I don't doubt that Myra would've loved it!

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    1. Thanks for that, Heather. I just wish I could have seen her expressions while reading it to her.

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  15. Greetings Jeff,

    I was there and now I'm here. I'm all over the place :)

    Myra will know that your poetic tale was magical and wondrous. Inspiration breeds inspiration. Good to see you are doing some writing. An excellent bit of prose, my good friend.

    Wishing you a peaceful weekend.

    Gary

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    1. I appreciate the comments you leave no matter where you leave them, Gary. I appreciate the compliment too.

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  16. Congratulations, and Myra would be very pleased and very proud of you. I'm sorry to hear about your loss. Keep writing. It helps.
    I'm your newest follower, and I'm glad I found your blog.
    Deb@ http://debioneille.blogspot.com

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    1. Hey there, Debi and welcome to my humble corner of cyberspace. I'm always glad to meet a new face. I shall indeed keep writing. It really is what she would want me to do.

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  17. How did I miss this? The Challenge, that's how. It must've hidden your post under an avalanche of Feedly feeds. *shakes head*

    Congratulations! Glad you're writing again. You can still make Myra proud. :)

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    1. Everything gets buried during April, undoubtedly the busiest month for most bloggers. And thanks. :)

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  18. I will have to pay attention to you! Keep writing, keep going. Not knowing Myra, I can only imagine she is smiling at you from a holy place.

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    1. It's been difficult, but I've been giving my best effort to keep going as Myra wished. She was my most ardent supporter. I'd like to think that she still is. :)

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