Tears of innocence and hope

Although some of us just want to hibernate, we are waking up to the energy of the Year of the Fire Rooster in our snow-covered Ottawa Valley. The Rideau Canal Skateway is open and Winterlude celebrations are under way. 

If you don't care for skating or skiing, you can enjoy fresh air and frosty ambience by touring the ice sculpture displays and perhaps enjoying a Beaver tail pastry and hot chocolate.

Permit yourself to travel back to a solemn winter during a time of innocence.  Imagine yourself in a small town on the shores of Georgian Bay in the 1970s. Meet a lonely yet brave 11 year-old girl - a girl on a mission to convince Mr. Young to let his pregnant daughter come back home. 

- - Begin excerpt - - 

After she finished her soup and blew her nose again, Sera sat quietly and gazed at the rabbit painting above her booth.  She took in the red, gold and green designs, the curves and simple patterns.  She felt sadness.  She felt a distant joy and contentment.  She smiled.  It was her first in a long time.  I miss this, she thought.  

The kitchen door swung open slowly.  Carl Young emerged, wearing his kitchen whites, as usual and holding a towel.   He approached Sera's booth with slow, even steps, wiping his hands.  

Sera perked up nervously and smiled, "Hello, Mr. Young."

"Hello, stranger, " he responded.

"Would you like to join me?"

"Sure.  Sure." he smiled briefly and sat across from her, "I guess I could take a break."  He sighed and groaned as he sat down on the bench.  Within seconds, Jenny swiftly brought over a coffee cup and saucer, filled the cup and dropped off the cream and sugar.  Carl gave a curious look, almost surprised that his wife was so quick in serving him.  

Sera bit her lip, looking down then slowly lifted her gaze to meet his tired eyes.  He appeared old and sad.  She rarely saw him sitting still for long periods.  

"Happy New Year, Mr. Young."

"Happy New Year, Sera."

"Soon it will be the Year of the Rabbit, yes?"

"Yes, that's right," he responded, looking up at the painting. 

Sera leaned forward, "It's my favourite year, you know, since I was born in it and.. that was the year you opened the restaurant."

Carl smiled slightly and nodded.  "That's right.  I forgot."

"I was wondering if you were going to have a celebration of any sort.  You know, like an anniversary party?"

"Oh.  I hadn't thought of that.  I've been.... busy."

"You could invite a lot of people."

"Really?" he shifted in his seat.

"Sure.  I could help with the decorations. I'm sure Dela and Gwen would like to help too."

"Sounds nice," he nodded, his eyes scanning the booths and front of the restaurant then took a sip of coffee.  

"I miss Amy!" she blurted out.

Carl, closed his eyes, breathed out slowly and set down his cup.

"I miss her, Mr. Young.  So do Dela and Gwen.  So does.. Mrs. Young."

"Sera..."

"I may just be a kid but I know she didn't do anything horrible.  She's pregnant and yes by my brother.  Stupid teenagers," she rolled her eyes, "Stupid. But.. but, it's not like she killed someone."

Carl looked at her sternly. 

"Please, Mr. Young," she pleaded with a soft whisper, stretching her hands across the table, "Let her come back home.  The place isn't the same without her.  I miss coming here with my family.  I miss that, Mr. Young."

"Sera..." he said in a tired manner.

"Please." Her green eyes watered and bore pitifully at him.  He did not want to destroy her youthful innocence.

"Sera.  It's a matter of honour, of family pride.  She shamed the family.  I gave her the best of everything and this is what happens... If this was another place and time, a girl in her situation would be…"

"I understand, Mr. Young. Well, I don't really ... I respect your opinion."

"Thank you."

"If it's a matter of you not wanting her at home right now, can she come and stay with us?"

"Oh.. Now I see.  Did your father send you here?"

"No!  I came by myself.  They don't know that I'm here. It was very hard for me to come here by myself especially seeing ..." she scowled, "seeing HIM here." her head jerked towards the front of the room.

"I see..."

"My friend was sent away with her mom because he hit her.  I haven't seen her for months. I've only received one letter from her. I miss her. I also miss Amy. Dela and Gwen miss Amy. I miss coming here with my family. Please, please, can we just put things back the way they were?"

"I don't see how we can do that, Sera.  My heart is broken. My family is shamed."

More people entered the restaurant, stomping the snow off their boots, shaking their hats and heading to join their companions.

"I.. I…  should let you get back to work, Mr. Young." said Sera, rising, "Looks like the winter carnival has brought a lot of people out today."

"Yes, I should get back...."

Sera put Aunt Georgette's money on the table and slid it under her empty soup bowl.  She grabbed her coat and got up to put it on.

Carl sat back and stared sadly at her.

"Thank you for the soup, Mr. Young.  It was delicious and warm as usual."

"Thank you for dropping by, Sera."

"Happy New Year,"  she said as she put on her tuque, turned and walked quickly towards the front door. 

- - End excerpt - - 

I cried while writing that part of the story. You just may cry too. Sample more excerpts. See what others have shared after reading The Year of the Rabbit. Download the first 20% of the novel for free at Smashwords. 

Thanks for dropping by. Stay warm :-) 

T

Small thanks

It is Thanksgiving weekend in Canada. 

The Red Hare restaurant would have been a nice place to host a family gathering rather than toiling away in a cramped apartment kitchen.  

I invite you to read an excerpt from The Year of the Rabbit where Sera and her extended family share in a Thanksgiving meal. 

Sera soon learns news that will add to her sadness and feelings of abandonment.  

It's a good thing she had Edgar and Jenny Young to give her some comfort. 

Drop by the novel's domain for links to other blog entries, reader comments and deep dark secrets.  You will have to dig a little for those...  

Giving thanks every day - 
beginning, middle and end.  
Waking from a dreamy state 
The cycle starts all over again.

T 

Note: Most of the content of this blog post is a reheat, a rehash from the one in 2012. 
 

Thawing a cold heart

Well, it looks like we are finally getting some winter weather in the Ottawa Valley. The Rideau Canal Skateway isn't open yet but preparations are under way.

Permit me to lead you back to a solemn winter during a time of innocence.  Imagine yourself in a small town on the shores of Georgian Bay in the 1970s. Meet a lonely yet brave 11 year-old girl - a girl on a mission to convince Mr. Young to let his pregnant daughter come back home. 

- - Begin excerpt - - 

After she finished her soup and blew her nose again, Sera sat quietly and gazed at the rabbit painting above her booth.  She took in the red, gold and green designs, the curves and simple patterns.  She felt sadness.  She felt a distant joy and contentment.  She smiled.  It was her first in a long time.  I miss this, she thought.  

The kitchen door swung open slowly.  Carl Young emerged, wearing his kitchen whites, as usual and holding a towel.   He approached Sera's booth with slow, even steps, wiping his hands.  

Sera perked up nervously and smiled, "Hello, Mr. Young."

"Hello, stranger, " he responded.

"Would you like to join me?"

"Sure.  Sure." he smiled briefly and sat across from her, "I guess I could take a break."  He sighed and groaned as he sat down on the bench.  Within seconds, Jenny swiftly brought over a coffee cup and saucer, filled the cup and dropped off the cream and sugar.  Carl gave a curious look, almost surprised that his wife was so quick in serving him.  

Sera bit her lip, looking down then slowly lifted her gaze to meet his tired eyes.  He appeared old and sad.  She rarely saw him sitting still for long periods.  

"Happy New Year, Mr. Young."

"Happy New Year, Sera."

"Soon it will be the Year of the Rabbit, yes?"

"Yes, that's right," he responded, looking up at the painting. 

Sera leaned forward, "It's my favourite year, you know, since I was born in it and.. that was the year you opened the restaurant."

Carl smiled slightly and nodded.  "That's right.  I forgot."

"I was wondering if you were going to have a celebration of any sort.  You know, like an anniversary party?"

"Oh.  I hadn't thought of that.  I've been.... busy."

"You could invite a lot of people."

"Really?" he shifted in his seat.

"Sure.  I could help with the decorations. I'm sure Dela and Gwen would like to help too."

"Sounds nice," he nodded, his eyes scanning the booths and front of the restaurant then took a sip of coffee.  

"I miss Amy!" she blurted out.

Carl, closed his eyes, breathed out slowly and set down his cup.

"I miss her, Mr. Young.  So do Dela and Gwen.  So does.. Mrs. Young."

"Sera..."

"I may just be a kid but I know she didn't do anything horrible.  She's pregnant and yes by my brother.  Stupid teenagers," she rolled her eyes, "Stupid. But.. but, it's not like she killed someone."

Carl looked at her sternly. 

"Please, Mr. Young," she pleaded with a soft whisper, stretching her hands across the table, "Let her come back home.  The place isn't the same without her.  I miss coming here with my family.  I miss that, Mr. Young."

"Sera..." he said in a tired manner.

"Please." Her green eyes watered and bore pitifully at him.  He did not want to destroy her youthful innocence.

"Sera.  It's a matter of honour, of family pride.  She shamed the family.  I gave her the best of everything and this is what happens... If this was another place and time, a girl in her situation would be…"

"I understand, Mr. Young. Well, I don't really ... I respect your opinion."

"Thank you."

"If it's a matter of you not wanting her at home right now, can she come and stay with us?"

"Oh.. Now I see.  Did your father send you here?"

"No!  I came by myself.  They don't know that I'm here. It was very hard for me to come here by myself especially seeing ..." she scowled, "seeing HIM here." her head jerked towards the front of the room.

"I see..."

"My friend was sent away with her mom because he hit her.  I haven't seen her for months. I've only received one letter from her. I miss her. I also miss Amy. Dela and Gwen miss Amy. I miss coming here with my family. Please, please, can we just put things back the way they were?"

"I don't see how we can do that, Sera.  My heart is broken. My family is shamed."

More people entered the restaurant, stomping the snow off their boots, shaking their hats and heading to join their companions.

"I.. I…  should let you get back to work, Mr. Young." said Sera, rising, "Looks like the winter carnival has brought a lot of people out today."

"Yes, I should get back...."

Sera put Aunt Georgette's money on the table and slid it under her empty soup bowl.  She grabbed her coat and got up to put it on.

Carl sat back and stared sadly at her.

"Thank you for the soup, Mr. Young.  It was delicious and warm as usual."

"Thank you for dropping by, Sera."

"Happy New Year,"  she said as she put on her tuque, turned and walked quickly towards the front door. 

- - End excerpt - - 

Sample more excerpts.    See what others have shared after reading The Year of the Rabbit.  Download the first 20% of the novel for free at Smashwords.  

If you have already read the book, why not offer a brief review?  Indie authors appreciate if readers post even a short review of how a book made them feel. Please do it!

Thanks for dropping by www.yearoftherabbit.ca. Stay warm :-) 

T

Loneliness

The kids are back in school. 

Most elementary and middle school students have made new friends or reunited with old ones to form their social circles and cliques.  

Let's not overlook the quiet loners who seek a safe corner of the playground or a quiet nook in the library.  They are likely too shy or embarrassed to approach a group and risk rejection after asking to be included. 

As much as parents and teachers would like to promote reading for our children, let's recognize that some of them turn to reading to escape loneliness.  Perhaps they can join a book club at the school or the public library.  That's one way to start.

Halloween is coming up too.  It used to be a happy, exciting occasion for Sera Fletcher, her siblings and friends.  That was until the night her best friend was whisked away. She soon turned to books and the public library as safe places with imaginary friends and wonderful, happy worlds.

 
"There's a little bit of Sera in all of us."

 How about you?  Is there a lonely tween wavering inside?

I invite you to read more excerpts from The Year of The Rabbit, a Novel About Fate, Family and Forgiveness.  Join others who enjoyed this piece of Canadian fiction.  Download the first few chapters of the eBook for free from Smashwords. 

Thanks for dropping by.

T
 

Reading recommendations from a teddy bear?

I would like to introduce you to Edgar, Sera Fletcher's favourite teddy bear. 

He provided her comfort during some very sad and confusing times.  

Sera also found comfort and escape while reading books.  The local library was one of her favourite places to visit, to feel at home.   

As a parent of young adult children, I have fond memories of our reading time on weekend afternoons or school nights.  We liked to explore new picture books but also had our old favourites.

Two of our favourite books were Wednesday is Spaghetti Day and The Lion and the Little Red Bird.  

As a working mother, I would visit the public library often during my lunch hours, exploring the children's section for new finds to cart home on the city bus. 

Edgar the bear has his own board on my Pinterest account where we pin photographs of him holding some of our recommended reads. I hope you will enjoy the pictures as well as the short reviews there and on Goodreads.

Edgar is a character in the novel but he was also a real  childhood toy.  He was gifted by a relative to a five year-old girl in 1969. The girl promptly named him Winnie (aka Winnie Pooh Bear).

I was that little girl.  

Winnie accompanied me while playing with friends and exploring the expanding world around our small town home.  Over the years, he comforted me while healing from lost friendships, broken hearts and very difficult life circumstances. He has kept many of my secrets.  

Winnie has his own secret.  There is a music box hidden in his stomach.  If you squeeze his tummy using the right pressure and tempo with both hands, you will hear the Rock a-bye Baby song. There were several tempting times to open him up, to dig inside and examine that box.  My childlike belief that he had feelings spared him that indignity!

I still have Winnie but don't snuggle with him anymore.  He stays at home, in a seat of honour up on the shelves in my room. A few months ago, I thought he looked lonely so I pulled him down for some photo opportunities, to share our love of reading and to lure in curious minds.     

This bear was a good listener, friend and an inspiration. 

You can trust his recommendations. 
 - - - 

Thank you for reading this far.  Did you find this post funny, interesting or inspiring?  Check one of the boxes below.  Offer a comment if you can.  

Drop by www.yearoftherabbit.ca for more information about the novel.  Visit deepblondethoughts.ca for tongue-in-cheek observations about life and life styles.  If you like cats, visit my WordPress blog where the Tabby rules.    

T

Missing since Halloween

A Seguin Sound man posts a request in the local newspaper, looking for his wife and daughter.

Thing is... they don't want to be found.  Find out why in this excerpt.  

This becomes a traumatic experience for Sera Fletcher who will spend the subsequent months missing her friend and sinking into depression.   

She finds joy when her illegitimate nephew is born.  Then she ponders life and death while realizing her mother will not survive the cancer that is consuming her once beautiful body. 

See more Seguin Sounder clippings.  Read more excerpts.

Thanks for dropping by.   Hop on over to The Year of the Rabbit web site when you have a minute.  

T

Small comforts

In times of sadness, all we may need for comfort is a familiar face, reassuring voice or gentle touch.  

Children will likely seek out a favourite toy, a trusted friend or adult. The following is an excerpt from The Year of the Rabbit where Sera Fletcher is saddened after hearing about more loved ones planning to leave town.

- - - 

Summer 1975 at the Red Hare restaurant:

Sera folded the stroller and leaned it against the back wall before heading upstairs to the apartment.  On her way up, she straightened the picture frames of her railway friends. She entered her room to change into her pajamas and prepare for bedtime wash-ups. When she returned to the room, she tidied up her clothes and folded them neatly on the chair for wearing another day. 

She thought about the events of the day.  Dela and Amy were leaving town and taking Harry with them.  Matthew wasn’t getting better.  He was selling their family home.  

She reached for Edgar, her stuffed bear and pulled him in for a hug.  She squeezed him tightly for reassurance.  The music box in his torso made the familiar chiming sound.  She sat on her bed and held him in front of her.  His brown and black glass eyes stared back at her, as if showing concern.  She gently squeezed his stomach with both hands in tempo to the rock-a-bye-baby rhyme.  She played it over and over again, as if in a trance, seeking comfort.  Rock-a-bye baby, in the tree top…

How stupid, she thought as she continued squeezing.  This song is about a baby falling out of a frigging tree!  How is someone supposed to fall asleep with THAT image in his or her head?  She thought about Harry in the tree today, how happy and carefree he was and how she held him safely so he would not fall. 

She started to cry, suddenly realizing that he was going away, far away and that she would miss the little guy.  She pulled Edgar in closer and hugged him tightly then burst into sobs and lay down on her pillow.

Why? She thought while sniffing and sobbing.  Why am I losing people I love?  I’m losing my family.  Where is my family?  Who is my family anymore?  Who is my real father?

There was a gentle knock on the door then Jenny’s voice, “Sera? Sera?”

“Yes?” she answered.

“May I come in?” asked Mrs. Young.

“Yes,” Sera responded without moving.

Jenny entered smiling then suddenly changed her expression when she saw Sera’s tear-stained face.

“Oh, Sera!  What’s wrong sweetheart?”

Sera rose on her side to meet Jenny in a hug as the woman sat on her bed.

“I’m so sad, Mrs. Young,” she sobbed, “I’m so sad about everything.”

“Everything?  Why is that?”

“Well,” she sniffed, “Amy and Dela are going away and they’re taking Harry with them.”

“Yes, I know.  I’m sad about that too.”

“I’m going to miss him so much.  Taking care of him makes me happy.  I feel grown-up and… like a kid all at the same time.”

Jenny stroked Sera’s head and ran her fingers in and out of the unruly, dark curly hair.  “I know, Sera.  It’s hard for us to see them leaving too.  We have to remember that Amy is eighteen years old now and is a young adult who can make her own decisions. Dela is mature and responsible at sixteen.  We trust them with taking Harry.  They’re going on a journey to visit family in Alberta.  They’ll call.  They’ll write.  Understand?“

“I know…” Sera looked at Jenny momentarily, noticed grey strands of hair forming at the front of her hairline.  She felt a bond of love and trust between them.

“They’re going to visit my family, my parents and siblings in Edmonton.”

“Why aren’t you going too?”

“Well… There’s this restaurant to run, and you to look out for,” she smiled at Sera, “and.. relations between my parents and me have been strained since I married Carl and moved way over here.  We’re letting Amy and Harry warm the ice.  My mother seems very happy to have them visit.”

“That’s nice,” said Sera sleepily, “It’s nice to have family.” 

“What else is bothering you?” asked Jenny.

Sera wasn’t sure about mentioning the fact that Amy and Dela were lovers and how Jenny would respond. There was no way she could mention her resurfacing guilt about the crime she and Gwen committed.  

“I’m worried about… my Dad and that he’s not my Dad anymore.”

Jenny suddenly stopped stroking Sera’s hair then spoke, “Oh, Sera.  That’s okay.  It’s good to show your concern about his health.  He has been through a lot the past few years.”

“It’s hard to understand, to accept these things that happen around us,” said Sera.

“Maybe you will find comfort with talking to Mr. Young and me.  Think of this as your second home, okay? We’ll be here for you when we can, understand?”

“Yes.  Thank you,” Sera smiled, a little tired-out from the day.  She recalled the Buddha statue and the secret cabinet in the living room.  This seemed like a good time to work it into the conversation. 

- - - 

End

Thanks for reading.  Drop by www.yearoftherabbit.ca for more information about the novel. 

They seemed like a happy family...

Domestic Violence is an undercurrent in The Year of the Rabbit.  

Although Sera Fletcher, her mother or other family members were not victims of abuse, they experienced a ripple effect when the abuse next door presented a crossroad.  Sera's friend Victoria and her mother were spirited away to a safe location by the people who suspected a problem but did little to address the situation prior.  

Of all the people, young Sera is the most affected and sinks into a depression from missing her best friend.  At least near the end of the novel, readers encounter the theme of forgiveness and promise of a reunion. 

Perhaps it is a coincidence but I have noticed the subject of Domestic Violence showing up more often in the news lately.  Have you noticed it too?

99,000 Canadians reported family violence in 2010
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/story/2012/05/23/ottawa-family-violence-canada-statscan-report.html

What keeps me hopeful is the fact that people are talking about it, raising awareness and even making efforts to educate others through art.  

The Atlantic Ballet Theatre of Canada is bringing " Ghosts of Violence " to Halifax
http://www.cbc.ca/arts902/add-category/2012/05/02/the-atlantic-ballet-theatre-of-canada-is-bringing-ghosts-of-violence-to-halifax/

Topic of domestic violence makes for a powerful, poignant ballet
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/theatre/topic-of-domestic-violence-makes-for-a-powerful-poignant-ballet/article2443716/

As a survivor of domestic violence, I do as much as my anxieties will allow in raising awareness and educating.  I don't think I could bring myself to watch a ballet, play or movie on the subject though.  When I have tried, the imagery and sounds brought back bad memories. 

I invite you to read a bittersweet tale of Fate, Family and Forgiveness.  You can download a free copy of the Ebook before May 31st.  

Thanks for scrolling this far.  Feel free to submit relevant comments below and give feedback after reading The Year of the Rabbit.  

T

All the world's a stage

In this excerpt from The Year of the Rabbit, young Sera Fletcher is once again saddened by the news of more people moving away - one of them is Gio, her biological father.  

Her mother is dying from a rapidly spreading form of cancer.  Twin sisters Dela and Gwen try to cheer Sera up.  With approval from the adults and costumes from Aunt Georgette's burlesque trunk, they and friends work magic to create a live performance in their back yard.

This excerpt represents one of the final stages of life for Marie Fletcher and the beloved cherry tree.  Readers with sharp perceptions will catch the reference to "All the world's a stage" and … the Tree of Life. 

T

~ ~ ~

Sera changed into her jeans and T-shirt. She fixed herself a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, grabbed a glass of milk, clenched the book under her arm and went to sit on the patio.  Tiger, the tabby cat was sprawled out in a sunspot along the bench.  Ringo sat in the shade.

She felt some comfort chewing on and savoring the flavors from her sandwich and taking occasional gulps of cool milk.  With the help of an occasional breeze, she leafed through the book on the patio table while tonguing peanut butter from the roof of her mouth.  Through the screen door she could hear the others arriving home from lunch and heading upstairs to change.  She heard Aunt Georgette ask Mrs. Johnson how her mother was.

Sera finished her sandwich and gulped down the last of the milk.  She licked her lips and wiped the remainder with her hand. 

The dwindling aroma of lilacs wafted in from the nearby bushes.  A few honeybees buzzed back and forth between the clusters of flowers, then randomly flew away and headed towards the cherry tree.  She followed their flight with her gaze.

“It looks sad,” she thought.  “It looks like it’s dying too.”

The twins came out in their jeans and light spring tops to join her.  At sixteen years old, they were filling out nicely and shooting up in height — almost as tall as their father. 

They had heard from Mrs. Johnson that Sera was feeling down.

“Hey, Sera,” said Dela, patting her little sister on the shoulder, sitting beside her and pulling the cat onto her own lap, “So you know about Mrs. Johnson moving.”

“Yeah.”  She responded, still staring at the cherry tree.

Gwen piped in, “I just learned about it on Friday.  It’s a good thing her house didn’t catch fire last night too.”

Sera stayed silent.  She almost stopped breathing. 

Dela responded, “They think it was the oil furnace.  Apparently, dickhead Daryl didn’t drain it properly.”

All three girls snickered at the nickname.  Sera breathed a sigh of relief. 

“I heard him give the constables a verbal lashing this morning,” offered Gwen, “He was yelling at them to do their jobs in finding who —” she lowered her voice in a mocking tone, “did this to me  — and — you useless faggots couldn’t even track down my family … and they’re saying back to him, it’s not our job to investigate fires and…”

Dela was sensitive to Sera’s feelings about the ‘family’ comment and interrupted her sister’s portrayal, “Okay, Gwen.  We get the picture.”

Sera just sat staring at the tree and nodded as if to acknowledge the conversation.

Dela gently dropped the cat onto the patio floor and wiped the loose fur off her lap, “Sera?  What’s up?  What are you staring at?”

“The tree.”

The twins turned their gaze to the cherry tree.

“It looks like crap,” commented Gwen with a sad tone.

“It looks like it’s dying,” said Sera in a monotone voice.  “It looks like it’s suffering.”

“Like Mom,” added Dela quietly.

“Yeah.”

Georgette came out in her house clothes to check on the girls.  She kissed Sera on the cheek. 

“Qu’est ce qui se passe, mes petits choux?” she asked.

“We’re just talking about stuff, trying to cheer up Sera,” replied Dela.

Gwen suddenly bounced in her seat, “Hey, Aunt Georgette!”

Georgette laughed, startled,  “Mon dieu!  What is it?”

The red-headed teen smiled broadly, looking at her sisters then her Aunt, “Can we put on a show?”

“A show?”

Dela grimaced at her sister, wrinkling her freckled nose, “What do you mean?”

“Can we set up a stage under the cherry tree with sheets for a backdrop and curtains, you know… and put on a little show for our Mom?”

“I-I-I don’t know.”

“We can ask Dad and the boys to carry her bed out,” offered Dela, being sold on the idea.

“Dela and I know some songs and a few dance steps from our lessons,” continued Gwen, “Dad will be happy to see that money put to good use, right? You know how he teases us about it.” 

Georgette cocked her head and made a funny face.  She straightened up and said, “Well, why don’t you ask her? Go ask your Mother if that is what she wants.”

The twins raced from the benches towards the door.

“Quietly!” Georgette shouted then realized the irony of her own loud outburst and shook her head, exasperated. 

The girls slowed their pace and walked quietly into the house then to their mother’s room in the front parlor.  Marie responded that she loved the idea of an impromptu performance in the backyard! 

~

Family and friends worked magic that afternoon. Walter and Sera expertly climbed the tree to tie a half-dozen bed sheets from the branches and pin them to each other.  Matthew and Perry laid planks down for the small stage and dance floor. Georgette pulled out some of her costumes. Dela and Gwen were pleased to explore the contents of her theatrical trunks.  Amy brought Harry; Jenny and Carl arrived to set up chairs and watch the show; they had even closed the restaurant for the evening. 

As the western sky glowed azure blue and orange, Perry and Walter hooked up the service lamp to the side of the shed.  Once the stage was set and the performers were ready, Matthew, Perry and Walter were on hand to transport Marie’s bed and attachments out to the back yard.

Sera forced her imagination to compare the scene to that of an Egyptian queen being carried by her servants to some grand performance along the Nile. 

The events of the day gave her a bittersweet feeling.

~ ~ ~

Did you like that excerpt from The Year of the Rabbit?  Want to read more? Do drop by Smashwords to download 20% of the ebook for free.  I'm certain you will subsequently want to purchase a copy :o)

T

Winter Carnival

It's a cold, damp January 2012 in the Ottawa Valley.   Before the Year of the Dragon pounces in, I thought you would enjoy an excerpt from January 1975, leading in to the Year of the Rabbit.  Imagine yourself in a small town on the shores of Georgian Bay. Meet a lonely yet brave 11 year-old girl - a girl on a mission. 
  


It was late January at the Winter Carnival celebrations at the town park that Sera approached Aunt Georgette for a couple of dollars. 


“Don’t you want to go on a sled ride, chérie?” Georgette asked, “How about some hot chocolate and pastries?” 


"I have to go... see someone," the girl responded.


"Where are you going,  Would you like company?" asked her Aunt.


“Just somewhere, Aunt Georgette. I need to go alone,” Sera replied, choking back tears.


"Okay, chérie," Georgette bent and kissed her on the forehead while handing her two dollars.  


"I'll see you back home, Aunt Georgette.  Thanks." She quickly pocketed the money and turned towards Main Street.  


The snow drifted down in a gentle, lacey curtain.  Sera adjusted her scarf and pulled the knit hat down over her ears and dark curls.  Her walk was slow yet determined with her boots making a steady ka-lump, ka-lump rhythm as she walked down the street.  


She had no desire to join in festivities in the park or at the ice-fishing derby on the Bay.  She needed to be somewhere familiar and comfortable.  


Sera headed towards the Red Hare, digging up the warm memories of the place, anticipating a hot bowl of wonton soup and sitting in her favourite spot.   I have to take things into my own hands, she thought while walking down the bustling sidewalk.  "Someone has to fix this.  I'm going to talk to Mrs. Young."


When Sera entered the restaurant, she was disappointed and angry to see Daryl MacDonald at one of the booths near the front, chatting up some of his police buddies, Constables Harrison and Brown.  


"Well, look what the cat dragged in," he feigned polite joviality, "It's the youngest of the Fletcher brood.  Where's the rest of the crew?  I haven't seen you people in here for weeks."


Sera felt a flood of fear and anger.  He likely knew damn well why they hadn't come lately.  Now he was sitting here gloating and rubbing it in.  She hated this man for what he did to her friend's mother.  She hated that they had to move away and she couldn't know where they were.  At least he didn't know where they were.  Look at him, what a big shot — just because his family owned most of the lumberyards in town.  


Don't say anything stupid.  Don't be afraid, she reminded herself.  Remember why you are here.  


"Hello, Mr. MacDonald," she responded while removing her hat and mitts, "Hello, Constables.  People have been busy, I guess."  She strained to see if her favourite booth was available.  She felt relief when she saw Jenny clearing her favourite table near the back.


The constables shifted in their seats uncomfortably. They didn’t look like they enjoyed his company.


Daryl continued, "Now, how's that Daniel doing in college?"


"Fine, thanks."


"He's a fine young lad, " Daryl continued to his companions, "He's going to make a fine officer some day."


The other men nodded in agreement and sipped their coffee.  


“Yes, siree.  And I heard he’s going to be a father too,” he gaffawed and slapped the table.


"Excuse me," Sera said curtly and headed towards the back. 


She walked at an even pace towards her booth.  Jenny was clearing away dishes from the previous customers and stopped to smile at her, "Hello, Sera. How are you, sweetie?"


"Not great, really," she responded, removing her coat, folding it and tossing it into the corner of one of the benches.  She scooped up a couple of plates and put them into the bussing bin that Jenny was holding, helping her tidy up.  


"I miss you, Sera," Jenny said, still performing her work, "I miss your whole family."   She pulled a handkerchief from her apron and blew her nose.  


"I miss you too, Mrs. Young," the girl responded, "I miss Amy and Mr. Young, I guess.  I miss this place."  Their eyes met. Sera was frowning and looked down at the table. "I miss Victoria."  She burst into silent tears, her shoulders shaking with each painful sob.  She sunk her chin into her chest and hunched her shoulders.


Jenny put her arms around Sera and held her closely.  


"I miss her so much.  I'm so lonely and I don't know .. don't know what to do."


"I know.  I understand, Sera." 


"I miss … how things used to be.  Mom is still not well enough. They say she's gone into a 'relapse'.   Aunt Georgette tries to cheer me up but I just don't feel any better.  I miss coming here, being here."


She gladly accepted the tissue Jenny offered her and blew her nose loudly.  


"Here, sit down."  Jenny slid in beside Sera on the bench with her arm around her shoulder and her head leaned in so she could speak softly.  "Things have been pretty tense around our place too.  Carl is embarrassed and angry with Amy.  That is why he had her sent away to that place in Toronto."


"I know.  I heard it from Dela and Gwen."


"It's ... very lonely around here without her too.  My own little girl," she blew her nose one more time and breathed out in relief, "Thank goodness for Gio arranging with the high school that she could finish her studies from there."  


"He's not half-bad, then," Sera commented, "How is Amy ... feeling?"


"Oh, she's a tough one but still her little princess self," she smirked, "and she tells me on the phone that she has been eating a lot. I mean A LOT!"


"Great. I wish she was here.  I wish I could see her big belly ... and feel the baby moving. "


Jenny looked down at her delicate hands and whispered, "Me too."


A small group of people entered the restaurant and seated themselves.  Jenny sighed then gave Sera a half hug and squeezed her shoulders to her chest, "I had better get back to work. Where's that Carolyn?  She's supposed to be covering the other side of the room.  Are you hungry?"


"Yes.  May I have a bowl of wonton soup?"


"Sure thing," Jenny replied as she rose to grab the bin and headed towards the kitchen. She turned and whispered, 


"It's nice to see you again, Sera."  


"Same here, Mrs. Young."




After she finished her soup and blew her nose again, Sera sat quietly and gazed at the rabbit painting above her booth.  She took in the red, gold and green designs, the curves and simple patterns.  She felt sadness.  She felt a distant joy and contentment.  She smiled.  It was her first in a long time.  I miss this, she thought.  


The kitchen door swung open slowly.  Carl Young emerged, wearing his kitchen whites, as usual and holding a towel.   He approached Sera's booth with slow, even steps, wiping his hands.  


Sera perked up nervously and smiled, "Hello, Mr. Young."


"Hello, stranger, " he responded.


"Would you like to join me?"


"Sure.  Sure." he smiled briefly and sat across from her, "I guess I could take a break."  He sighed and groaned as he sat down on the bench.  Within seconds, Jenny swiftly brought over a coffee cup and saucer, filled the cup and dropped off the cream and sugar.  Carl gave a curious look, almost surprised that his wife was so quick in serving him.  


Sera bit her lip, looking down then slowly lifted her gaze to meet his tired eyes.  He appeared old and sad.  She rarely saw him sitting still for long periods.  


"Happy New Year, Mr. Young."


"Happy New Year, Sera."


"Soon it will be the Year of the Rabbit, yes?"


"Yes, that's right," he responded, looking up at the painting. 


Sera leaned forward, "It's my favourite year, you know, since I was born in it and.. that was the year you opened the restaurant."


Carl smiled slightly and nodded.  "That's right.  I forgot."


"I was wondering if you were going to have a celebration of any sort.  You know, like an anniversary party?"


"Oh.  I hadn't thought of that.  I've been.... busy."


"You could invite a lot of people."


"Really?" he shifted in his seat.


"Sure.  I could help with the decorations. I'm sure Dela and Gwen would like to help too."


"Sounds nice," he nodded, his eyes scanning the booths and front of the restaurant then took a sip of coffee.  


"I miss Amy!" she blurted out.


Carl, closed his eyes, breathed out slowly and set down his cup.


"I miss her, Mr. Young.  So do Dela and Gwen.  So does.. Mrs. Young."


"Sera..."


"I may just be a kid but I know she didn't do anything horrible.  She's pregnant and yes by my brother.  Stupid teenagers," she rolled her eyes, "Stupid. But.. but, it's not like she killed someone."


Carl looked at her sternly. 


"Please, Mr. Young," she pleaded with a soft whisper, stretching her hands across the table, "Let her come back home.  The place isn't the same without her.  I miss coming here with my family.  I miss that, Mr. Young.  


"Sera..." he said in a tired manner.


"Please." Her green eyes watered and bore pitifully at him.  He did not want to destroy her youthful innocence.


"Sera.  It's a matter of honour, of family pride.  She shamed the family.  I gave her the best of everything and this is what happens... If this was another place and time, a girl in her situation would be…"


"I understand, Mr. Young. Well, I don't really ... I respect your opinion."


"Thank you."


"If it's a matter of you not wanting her at home right now, can she come and stay with us? "


"Oh.. Now I see.  Did your father send you here?"


"No!  I came by myself.  They don't know that I'm here. It was very hard for me to come here by myself especially seeing ... " she scowled, "seeing HIM here." her head jerked towards the front of the room.


"I see..."


"My friend was sent away with her mom because he hit her.  I haven't seen her for months. I've only received one letter from her. I miss her. I also miss Amy. Dela and Gwen miss Amy. I miss coming here with my family. Please, please, can we just put things back the way they were?"


"I don't see how we can do that, Sera.  My heart is broken. My family is shamed."


More people entered the restaurant, stomping the snow off their boots, shaking their hats and heading to join their companions.


"I.. I…  should let you get back to work, Mr. Young." said Sera, rising, "Looks like the winter carnival has brought a lot of people out today."


"Yes, I should get back...."


Sera put Aunt Georgette's money on the table and slid it under her empty soup bowl.  She grabbed her coat and got up to put it on.


Carl sat back and stared sadly at her.


"Thank you for the soup, Mr. Young.  It was delicious and warm as usual."


"Thank you for dropping by, Sera."


"Happy New Year,"  she said as she put on her touque, turned and walked quickly towards the front door. 


- - End excerpt - - 


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