Autumn Walk

Published on October 27, 2014April 16, 2015 by Jean M. Cogdell4 Comments

I tugged on his leash, pulling Harry closer. Life-like art enhanced the beauty of the park. A couple pushing a stroller, children playing ball, and a sweet older couple, walking hand-in-hand, all frozen in time. Each turn revealed another stunning piece.

A cold wind blew and dark clouds blocked the sun. An odd figure, different from the other statues of happy families stood off the main path. Harry whimpered as I ventured closer. The small placard failed to give the name of the author or donor. I read the three words aloud.

“Time to go.”

Harry barked, tugging on his leash I backed away.

DSCF3964 Week#8

I hope you enjoyed my contribution to Julia’s Place

100 Word Challenge for Grown Ups – Week#153

If you’d like to join in the fun click on the above link.

This is the week for spooky fun.

What are you writing about?

Share!

Share your stories.

Share prompts and tips.

Leave a link to your Halloween stories, I’d love to read them.

Ghosts, goblins and witches, oh my!

The Journey Home

Published on August 13, 2014April 16, 2015 by Jean M. Cogdell

The Journey Home

The morning awakened, as the darkness faded, to the sound of pounding surf. I pulled the Christmas colored shawl tighter, surprised at the warmth of the highland wool, this plaid that provided warmth to my ancestors for generations.

I peered over the cliffs and the first peace I’d felt in years filled my soul. Through the fog, the voices past and present reached out to my spirit.

My heart now renewed strength and my feet with purpose, and as the black dog walks alongside me I turned toward home. There are things to do; Cù Sith you’ll have to wait.

Challenge

I hope you enjoyed my contribution to 100 Word Challenge for Grownups #144.

Writing Practice

As a writer, I beginning to understand that practice is important, so I’m working on trying to do more exercises in the form of quick prompts. 100 WCGU is a fun one to get the creative juices flowing. Join in the fun. Click on the link below.

100 Word Challenge for Grownups #144

…as the black dog walks alongside me…

The Prescription

Published on August 8, 2014August 8, 2014 by Jean M. Cogdell8 Comments

The Prescription

Marge couldn’t believe he’d written a prescription for walking. A hundred degrees outside and walking was his answer. She stared as the offending script hit the trash can. God, she hated exercise. But, she’d try anything at least once.

When she stepped outside, the unbearable air slipped around her head like a plastic bag. However, she doggedly placed one foot in front of the other, determined to finish a mile. Her only company the damn buzzing, blood sucking mosquitoes.

Marge cursed Doc Ralston as the parched ground crumbled beneath her feet and her ankle snapped. God, she hated exercise.

This was my contribution to the:

100 Word Challenge For Grownups #143

…the parched ground crumbled beneath…

Are you ready to reach for the stars?

Published on April 1, 2014April 1, 2014 by Jean M. Cogdell

Well, maybe the stars are a bit high, but how about a place to stretch your talents? Sometimes it’s good to take a leap and jump off in the deep end. Yes, I know putting your writing out for someone to judge is scary. Make that downright terrifying. Pee your pants, bite your nails, sick to your stomach terrifying. But the rewards are so worth the effort.

No, you won’t win every time. In fact the odds are not in your favor. However, so often the judges are kind enough to send a brief critique with their rejection. That is a win too. Just remember that even for the non-cash prize, ezine publications, there are thousands of writers entering each contest. I’m not saying that to discourage you, but to put things in perspective.

Not all of the contests pay cash prizes or any prize at all, but that shouldn’t stop you from entering, nor should the fact your entry is but one of many. The experience helps us grow as writers.

So, if you’re interested, here are a few contests to get you started. Remember, read and follow the rules. Check and recheck for typos. I know that sounds elementary, but everyone makes mistakes. Believe me, I know.

American Short Story Fiction

Hint Fiction

Flash Fiction Chronicles

Raymond Carver Short Story Contest at Carve Magazine

New Pages (a source for submissions)

Nano Fiction

Press 53

Glimmer Train

WOW Women on Writing (love this contest, get great feedback from judges)

Maybe, you’re looking for a market place to sell your work check out Brainstorms & Bylines

Or WOW Women on Writing job board.

Also Check out Story Dam or Julia’s Place for writing prompts to get your juices flowing.