Juicy Beltane bits

Happy Beltane all you nature lovers!  

We're finally getting some springlike weather in the Ottawa Valley after one b1tch of a winter!

Enjoy an excerpt from the novel about young love (err.. lust) and a recycled blog post. These will hopefully lure you to enjoy The Year of the Rabbit, a novel about Fate, Family and Forgiveness.

Follow the wall posts on Facebook and contribute to the discussions.  Like it!  Share it with your friends but NOT your dear, sweet Mother. This book contains content considered unsuitable for young readers 17 and under, and which may be offensive to some readers of all ages.

Get  20% of the Ebook for free.  No trees were harmed during the creation of this edition.  Buy the Ebook from Smashwords, an awesome publishing platform for indie authors.  

Thanks for dropping by. Be wary of friendly Green men in the forest today ;-^

T

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

Hide and Seek with Words

Too old for hide and seek?  

How about something that requires less body movement but well-acquired hand-eye coordination?  You can likely play this word search puzzle on your new tablet computer or use the traditional pen and paper method.

Perhaps you would like to read a hide and seek excerpt from The Year of the Rabbit? 

Thanks for dropping by.  Feel free to comment or ask questions.  Remember to follow Flo on Twitter. 

Since you're here, why not get a free Ebook copy of the novel?  Valid until May 31st. 

T

Springing into Love

Ah, Spring.  It's when a young man's fancy turns to love - or something... something like that.    

What a lovely time of year for scantily clad youth to run freely, roll in the grass and climb trees.  The warmer, dry weather also provides a good opportunity for young lovers to slip away while playing hide and seek with their chums.

Here's a snippet from The Year of the Rabbit where carpentry apprentice Walter George is deemed "it" for a game of hide and seek:

As Walter snuck down the path and up towards the forest, he saw Gwen racing from the garden towards home base, touching the shed and shouting "Home free!"

Whatever, thought Walter as he prowled and crept up the slope, I've got bigger fish to catch.

Deeper into the pine forest he crept, from tree to tree, bush to bush.

As he peered out and down towards the place the kids called ‘Rabbit Hollow’, he saw Amy and Daniel lying against one of the sloping rocks, nicely revealed by the reflective light of the gibbous moon.  They were kissing wildly and Amy's hands were all over Daniel's body — rubbing stroking and clawing.  Walter could hear their hushed voices just enough to know what would happen next.  

So what happens next?  Read the full excerpt and perhaps another describing the result.

Teen sexuality is a sticky subject.  Young people need to be gently yet intelligently educated about their changing bodies and raging hormones.  Sometimes though it's difficult for parents to deliver the talk.  

Recently, the Canadian Museum of Science and Technology opened an exhibit about sex, providing information from a scientific perspective.  It caused a bit of a furor and got plenty of news coverage but some parents recanted their complaints after visiting it themselves.  

One teen even said, "I think they're showing us healthy sexuality ...they aren't sexualizing it.  I mean they're showing the facts, we all have bodies and we all go through this stuff." 
 
We all go through this stuff.  So true.  

If you want to read about a few young people who went through this stuff and came out okay after a few conflicts and disappointments, you may enjoy reading The Year of the Rabbit, a novel about Fate, Family and Forgiveness.  Be quick and you can download a free copy of the eBook by May 31, 2012.  Start here. 

T

Happy Beltane, Nature Lovers

Darn it all! Can't find my Maypole. 

Happy Beltane all you nature lovers!  Enjoy an excerpt from the novel about young love (err.. lust) and a recycled blog post. 

You will enjoy The Year of the Rabbit, a novel about Fate, Family and Forgiveness.

Learn about the novel's author, Florence T. Lyon.  Follow her on Twitter as she explores and flounders with modern technology. 

Follow the wall posts on Facebook and contribute to the discussions.  Like it!  Share it with your friends but NOT your dear, sweet Mother.  This book contains content considered unsuitable for young readers 17 and under, and which may be offensive to some readers of all ages.

Get  20% of the Ebook for free.  No trees were harmed during the creation of this edition.  

Buy the Ebook from Smashwords, an awesome publishing platform for indie authors.  

Thanks for dropping by.

T

Read an Ebook Week March 4-10

Flo is participating in "Read an Ebook Week March 4-10"

Since Smashwords is the publisher for the ebook version of the novel, you can get The Year of the Rabbit for $1.00 (US)

Visit Smashwords.com between March 4th and 10th.  Jump directly to the novel's page. Follow the instructions to get 75% off during the site-wide promotion.

Remember:  You can always download 20% of the Novel for free.

Don't get distracted by the funny cat video. Okay, go ahead. We all know the world could use MORE funny cat videos... 

Now for something serious and disturbing.  PayPal is requiring Smashwords to remove all erotica content on its platform that contains references to bestiality, rape and incest – otherwise it will stop doing business with Smashwords altogether.  This is considered censorship and unfair.  Read the TechCrunch article.  

The Year of the Rabbit is not considered erotica yet contains a "brief" teenage sex scene and reference to incest.   It does not promote nor condone.  It strives to educate. 

I would be interested to hear your comments - either here or on the Facebook fan page.  

Thanks for dropping by. 

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 - - 


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 www.yearoftherabbit.ca.  

YOTR coverage in the Citizen's "The Wrap"

There was mention of The Year of the Rabbit in the Ottawa Citizen's "The Wrap" Volume 53, #1 September 2011.  

Title:  "Domestic Violence Survivor uses her writing as therapy" 

Read an electronic version of the article in PDF or JPG.  

Read T's ramblings about writing as therapy here. 

By the way... The Wrap wants general interest stories from Ottawa citizens, neighbourhood news and information.  They also spotlight charities and non-profits.  Read more here.  

About the novel:

• Read selected excerpts
• Read comments from others
• Go to Smashwords.com where you can read or download a sample then… purchase a copy in one of many supported formats.
  

Thanks for stopping by.  It has been an interesting journey.

T
 

A Good Father

So, Father’s Day is coming up on June 19th.  This event has been low-key in our household for the past seven years.  There has been no attempt at a replacement. 

I can imagine how it must feel for some families to celebrate Mother’s Day or Father’s Day in a home divided or where one parent has passed away. 

In the novel The Year of the Rabbit, we are introduced to Matthew Fletcher, father of Sera and her older siblings.  Only a handful of people had been aware of Sera’s true paternity.   After Marie passes away, her hidden letter of confession reaches Matthew via an unlikely  messenger.

I like to think of Matthew Fletcher as an ideal husband and a good father.  He was gentle and loving with his children.  He was forgiving of his wife’s wild behaviour.  He performed honest work as a carpenter and cabinet maker.   He also reached out to others in his community.  I think I wrote about my ideal man o_O.

His son Daniel on the other hand, helped to make baby Harry but conveniently disappeared from the scene after he was born.  Sure, he sent money to help support his child financially but he chose not to return to Seguin Sound or marry Amy.  She as well was not eager to marry him.  She had found another lover.  Harry was about to be raised in a non-traditional family.

I’m posting this well in advance to Father’s Day because of a technology article I came across a couple of days ago.   For Father’s Day 2011, GeekDad is asking you to join them as a willing participant in the Disconnect to Reconnect Campaign. The event is being promoted by author Phil Cooke, who is challenging dads across the country to disconnect your digital devices for 24 hours and reconnect with your family.

Since the novel takes place in the early 1970s, I think that’s a great idea.  No Internet.  No cell phones, web sites, Twitter or Facebook.  Just make sure you have read this post before Sunday.  Share it with others.  Make a comment. 

To all the good fathers out there, have a wonderful Fathers’ Day.  Enjoy your time with your family. 

Letters

These excerpts are posted in honour of Canada Post, the organization, their workers and the valued services provided. 

Excerpt 1:  After Sera convinces Carl Young to allow pregnant Amy to come back home

The next Friday, the Fletchers received an envelope in the mail with an invitation to the Red Hare Anniversary Party in February.  Inside the bright red card was a folded note in Jenny's handwriting. 

"Amy is coming home on Saturday. We’re planning a Chinese New Year party for next week.  Please ask the girls to drop by to discuss decoration ideas.” 

Your friends,
Carl and Jenny."

Marie broke into tears, leaning on Georgette for support while standing by the kitchen sink.   The twins were ecstatic. 

"That's tomorrow!  Amy's coming home tomorrow!" squealed Dela hugging Gwen. 

"What changed his mind?" asked Marie, dabbing her eyes. 

"I think I have an idea," whispered Georgette, smiling as she went to grab her coat and boots.  "I'll be back in time to make supper."

(This leads to Georgette's search for Sera at the local library...)

Excerpt 2:  Letters received with joy - and the realization of one that should have stayed hidden... 

(Eleven year-old Sera has just finished changing Harry's diaper in the apartment above the Red Hare restaurant)

They made their way back downstairs and into the dining room.  Georgette had arrived and was seated at the front, sipping coffee and reading some papers. 

“Bonjour, chérie!” she called and waved.

“Hi, Aunt Georgette,” Sera called back, standing beside her own booth.  She looked down to see two envelopes on the table.

Georgette called, “You have mail, la.”

“I see,” replied Sera, “Thanks!”

Jenny appeared out of the kitchen and said, “Here, Sera.  Let me take my grandson for a while.”

Sera released the boy with an expression of relief.  “Oooh,” she joked while she stretched from side to side, “He’s getting heavy.”

“That’s our boy,” Jenny responded and walked away kissing him on the forehead and swinging him gently to one side.

The letters intrigued Sera.  One was from Mrs. Johnson, from Vancouver.  Sera was so happy that she had lived up to her promise to write. She opened it with joy and read it over twice, line by line.  Rachelle had included photographs of her new home and gardens in Vancouver. She was very happy to be with her son, Mikail and to meet his fiancée.  Fiancée?  Wow.    

The other envelope contained a short note from Gio:

Dear Sera,

I hope this finds you well.  I have been thinking of you.  Please give little Harry a hug for me.  I am taking some time off to care for my parents.

Warm wishes to you and your family.  Have a good summer. Please write if you have time.

Gio

She grabbed the letters and walked with a bounce to sit with Georgette at the front of the restaurant.  Her aunt was reading her own mail with great interest. 

“Hmm?” she looked up to see Sera sitting in front of her and actually smiling. 

“I got a letter from Mrs. Johnson, Aunt Georgette,” said Sera happily. 

“Yes, chérie.  I know.”

“Oh, and one from Father Gio too. Kind of short though…”

“Uh huh,” her aunt smiled, reading her letter again.

“I want to write back to Mrs. Johnson.”

“Okay…” Georgette responded.  She looked up and smiled at her niece, “I think that’s a great idea, chérie.”

Sera packed her book-bag, said goodbye to the Young’s and Aunt Georgette then headed home.

Georgette sipped her coffee and read the letter from Gio again:

Dear Georgette,

Thank you for your letter of June 5th informing me of your discovery.  I was wondering when and how Matthew would learn the truth. I cannot tell you what to do.  Matthew should know although it would likely break his heart.

I feel that I am only a pawn in these cruel coincidences and circumstances. I think about Sera often and hope she is coping well.  I am glad to hear she is taking good care of young Harry.  Please keep an eye on her.

My Mother and Father are settled back in the vineyards.  Isabella visits from time to time.  Speaking of heartache, they have expressed their disappointment that they have no grandchildren now with Roberto deceased and both Isabella and I in the Church.  I am tempted to tell them about Sera but do not want to bring shame to the family name — or scandal to the Church. 

Thank goodness I have been able to take an extended sabbatical and help my parents around the orchards and vineyards.  They are getting old and feeble. Roberto’s death has sucked away their spirits.

I am saddened that Isabella has again lost contact with Victoria and her mother.  They left the shelter in March and have not returned.  Search efforts have not been successful.

I am applying for special consideration to leave the priesthood, to work as a layperson whose business produces wine and jams to be sold and raise funds for a new project. I am looking for someone who knows how to keep books, manage a growing estate and communicate with customers.  I was thinking of you, Georgette.

Please consider joining me at the Villa Vinoletti.  At least come for a visit.  I am sure that your work with the Fletcher’s will soon be done.  I miss Sera.  Can you provide an excuse to bring her with you when you visit?.  It’s so beautiful here.

Warm regards,  Love,

Gio

Georgette held the pages close to her chest and reached for her coffee.  As she sipped the warm liquid she thought, “What a good idea, to take a vacation and visit Gio.  I should write a quick note back to him.”

After she consumed her late lunch, she read through the letter a third time.  It was then that she realized Sera had already headed home and was planning to write a letter to Mrs. Johnson. 

What if…?   (teaser link to another excerpt...)

Georgette feverishly packed the envelopes into her purse and called back to Jenny. 

“Good bye, Jenny.  Au revoir.  I must go.”

“Okay,” called Jenny as she opened the kitchen door with Harry in her arms, “Bye, bye!”

“Baaaaah!” called Harry.

- End excerpts - 

Do you like what you've read so far?  Buy the book ;o) 

Hide and Seek - Childhood games and Lovers' Initiation

Chapter 4  Excerpt:  Hide and Seek

Picture the month of May with greening woods and blossoming trees.  It is a perfect time for young lovers, for renewal and for planting seeds.  Handsome Daniel Fletcher has returned from his first year at military college with hopes of a carefree summer vacation.  Family and friends gather for a barbecue on the Fletcher property. 

~ ~ ~

After the joyful chaos and feeding frenzy at the barbecue, everyone had a hand in tidying up. It was soon turning to dusk and the younger children wanted to play hide and seek.  It was one of their favourite outdoor games and they were elated when Daniel agreed to play as well.  The adults retired indoors for drinks, to play cards and have a chance for some quiet.

Just as the children were noisily preparing for the game and to decide who was "it" first, Victoria's father hollered out from the MacDonald’s porch, "Victoria!  Time to come in."

"Aww, Daddy," she pleaded, "Can I please stay a little longer?"

"No.  Come in now, Princess."

Sera watched her friend's shoulders sink as she walked slowly towards home. 

"Bye, Victoria.  See you tomorrow."

"Yeah..."

"It's going to be biking day," Sera said, attempting to cheer up her friend.

"Yeah, okay.  See ya."

The other kids were already clustered around Daniel as he started laying down the rules of the game.

"Okay, you punks, listen up!  No going past or up the trestle. No going across the road.  No going beyond the raspberry patch.  Got it?"

The younger kids shouted in excited unison, "Yes!"

"Okay, then.  Eenie, meenie, minee, moe..." He recited around the circle of kids to determine who was going to be "it" and ended up at Walter.  The others whooped up in a cheer.  Daniel said before turning to run, "Count to one hundred, Walt.  You can do that now, can't you?"

Walter quipped back with a smirk, "Screw you, Danny boy.  Of course I can and I'm gonna find you first."

"Well!  Let the games begin," Daniel laughed heartily with his broad smile flashing across his handsome face. 

Walter turned to the corner of the shed and hollered out, "One!  Two!  Three..."

The kids squealed and scattered into the dimming light towards the gardens, the lilacs and the raspberry bushes.  Sera watched as Amy grabbed Daniel's hand and led him quickly down the path towards the train trestle then took a sharp left along the raspberry bushes.  Sera quickly and quietly followed, crouching behind.  The two teenagers ran beyond the bushes, up the slope towards the forest with Amy's long, black hair and blue skirt flaring around her.  Sera stopped at the edge of the raspberry patch.

That’s not fair, she thought, Daniel said no going beyond the raspberry patch. That cheat!

Sera decided to follow them, creeping from tree to tree and bush to bush as she watched them climb up the slope towards the forest. 

Walter finished counting, "ninety-eight, ninety-nine, ONE HUNDRED!,” then hollered, “Ready or not here I come!"  He turned and scanned the Fletcher's large back yard and from the corner of his eye, noticed one of the twins' heads peering over the rock behind one of the gardens. 

No, he thought, Too easy.  I'm going to find Daniel first, that smart-ass!  He straightened and smoothed his long braided tresses on each side of his head and sniffed the air, catching the lingering scent of the barbeque, cherry blossoms, lilacs and...Amy's perfume.  Channel Number 5, here I come, he snickered to himself, You were practically hanging off the poor guy all evening. You're probably stuck to him right now.

As Walter snuck down the path and up towards the forest, he saw Gwen racing from the garden towards home base, touching the shed and shouting "Home free!"

Whatever, thought Walter as he prowled and crept up the slope, I've got bigger fish to catch.

Deeper into the pine forest he crept, from tree to tree, bush to bush. 

As he peered out and down towards the place the kids called ‘Rabbit Hollow’, he saw Amy and Daniel lying against one of the sloping rocks, nicely revealed by the reflective light of the gibbous moon.  They were kissing wildly and Amy's hands were all over Daniel's body — rubbing stroking and clawing.  Walter could hear their hushed voices just enough to know what would happen next. 

(Sorry. This section has been snipped due to steamy content.  You'll have to purchase the book.)

With a mischievous thought about them getting into trouble, she (Sera) forgot the new experience and galloped down the hill.  As she raced towards the shed, she noticed the other kids gathered around the cherry tree, laughing and whooping it up.  As she flew by and touched the shed, she thought, "This is too easy." but declared anyways, "Home free!"

Gwen ran over to her, laughing, "Walter's got Daniel's shirt and is cornered in the tree like a cat!"

"Really?" Sera responded coyly, "I wonder how that happened?"

Walter was laughing while shaking the limbs, sending a sprinkling of blossoms from the tree.  The younger children cheered and jumped around singing, “Let it snow, let it snow…” and "Here comes the bride!"

Daniel hissed at him, "Walt!  Walter!  That's enough.  Give it back before our folks come out!"

Amy retreated to the safety of her friends, Dela and Gwen.  Dela turned to her, puzzled.  "Why is your hair messy?"

"I-I I guess from hiding behind the garden."

Gwen added, "and why are you covered in pine needles? Were you rolling on the ground?"

"Yes.  Of course!  Now do any of you ladies have a comb?"

Daniel had climbed up the tree as far as his larger build would take him. 

"Okay, Walter," he hissed, "You WIN.  Now give me back my shirt you sneaky bastard!" Just as he spit out the last word, the shirt landed on his sweaty face.

The grown-ups came out of the house to see what all the commotion was.  Sera was worried that they'd find out about the dirty things Amy and Daniel were doing up in the woods.  As she saw her brother struggling to put his shirt on, she ran up to intercept her father, grabbing him by the hand.

"Hi, Daddy!" she chirped.

"Hey, short stuff.  What's going on?"

"Oh, Daniel lost at hide and seek and he's upset at Walter.  That's all."

"Ahh.  A sore loser, eh?"

"Yep. Please can you make us a bonfire so we can roast marshmallows?"

"Sure, Sweetie." then he called up into the tree, "Boys!  Stop your fighting.  Get along, now."

"Yes, Dad," answered Daniel.

"Yes, Mr. Fletcher, Sir!" shouted Walter before he punched Daniel on the arm, dangled and dropped catlike out of the tree.  "I can help you build that fire, Sir." 

"Alright, Walt." responded Matthew, "That will be a big help.  Just cut out the tom-foolery."

"Yes, sir," He responded genuinely this time then turned up to the tree to faux-salute Daniel while giving him the finger and a wide grin.

Sera couldn't help but giggle at his antics.  Walter was such a trickster.  As he made his way to the woodpile beside the shed, his grandmother pulled him aside and snarled something in Ojibwa.  He stopped to face her but looked down to the grass and responded softly in their language.  She gave him a couple of light slaps on the cheek then returned to join the adults.  She paused to smile at Sera and pat her on the shoulder.

Within a few minutes, the kids were sitting around the bonfire and toasting marshmallows.  Amy was glued beside Daniel once again.  As usual, Dela and Gwen were like two peas in a pod.  Walter and Perry were comparing who could make the biggest flaming marshmallow without letting it burn to a crisp. 

A couple of neighbourhood kids saw the activity at the fire pit and dropped by, offering a package of hot dog wieners and cans of pop as price of admission.

~ ~ ~ 

End excerpt

Women, Waitressing and the Art of Service - The Documentary

How did I miss this?  

TV Ontario aired this documentary on March 16th. I'm interested in seeing it since I waited on and bussed tables for a short period in a former life.  I was oblivious to any gender or pay inequality at the time. 

 

In the novel The Year of the Rabbit, Jenny and Amy Young wait tables at their family restaurant with the occasional help of hired staff.  Jenny enjoys her work, performing it with pride and finesse. Amy, being a teenager, helps out because it is expected by her Chinese Canadian parents.  It's husband and father Carl who gladly and expertly works in the kitchen.  The parents practically live the art of service and provide it with compassion. 

Young Sera Fletcher enjoys an inside view of the people who prepare and serve the food at The Red Hare restaurant.  It was was not only a third place for her community; it became her new home when her own family began to crumble. 

A child is born

I hope readers enjoy this excerpt from Chapter 7 and share my feelings on the joyous occasion of the birth of a child. Although it's a hot day in August, consider for your imagination, a cold February night in 1975. 


Begin excerpt: 

Gio left Marie, Georgette and Matthew to deal with the teenagers and headed quietly to Amy's room.  It was a good thing her roommate was heavily sedated with the commotion of the two families in and out this evening. 

He stood in the doorway, watching as Sera held her nephew in her arms, gently rocking him back and forth.  Gio's heart swelled with pride and sorrow. 

"He's so cute, Amy." Sera sniffed, "He's so beautiful – and hairy!"

"Yeah, he is beautiful, isn't he?" Amy responded weakly from her bed, already dozing off.

"What are you going to call him?" she sniffed again.

"I didn't even think about that.  How stupid to not even think of a name yet. I'm just sooo tired..."

"Oh, don't worry, something will come to you soon," Sera turned her loving gaze to the slumbering baby, "Right, hairy boy?"

The nurse slid past Gio to retrieve the baby and take him back to the nursery. Sera protested at first then gave in to her authority.  Amy had already fallen asleep and could care less. 

The nurse expertly bundled him back up into a tightly wrapped package.  She swept him into her arms, walked towards the visiting area and stated, "All right you people, it's time to move out.  Come back tomorrow morning at eleven."

"Yes, nurse," said Gio. 

"Have a good night, Father."

"Bless you, Dorothy."

Sera pulled the blankets up over Amy's petite body and kissed her on the forehead.  As she headed to the door, she subconsciously reached for Gio's hand and clasped it in hers as they headed down the hall for one last peek through the nursery window. 

"Isn't he beautiful, Gio?"

"He is, " He replied fighting back tears as he gazed at the rows of bassinets.

"He's so small, so helpless - but so loud!"

"They can be that way."

"I finally have a little brother - well, nephew.  This is going to be fun."

Gio turned to look at her smiling face faintly reflected in the nursery window.  It was the first time in months that he had seen her happy. 

"He's going to need someone special like you to watch out for him."

"Oh, I will. I love him so much already!" she sniffed., “I feel a special bond with him.” 

"Considering you were there when he was conceived, yes?"

Sera turned quickly to look up at him.  She blushed thinking she was in trouble but when she caught the smirk on his face and glint in his eyes, she relaxed.

"That's right," she quipped, "Plus, he was born the same year as me."

"What's that?"

"The year of the rabbit.  With all the bad things that have happened the last few months, I'm looking forward to this year.  Things can only get better, right?"

He paused to recite some memorized scripture for the occasion then stopped, "Sure, Sera.  That's a good way to look at it.  This baby's birth and his development are things to celebrate in hope and love."

"Does he have to be baptized? Can be even be baptized if he's a ..." she whispered closer to him, "bastard?"

Gio placed his large hand on her shoulder and led her back to where the family was waiting, "That's another bridge to cross another day, okay?"

- End excerpt -

Thank you for reading :-)