Reading in Bed: a short story

She let it happen without any particular plan.
The weather outside was uninviting.

Two pillows against the bedstead
a hot water bottle
a book
a mug of something hot.

She loved the soft colours on the patchwork quilt
it felt so snug
It reminded  her of when she was little
and had one of her bad earaches
She had felt less abandoned when she was ill
Somebody noticed.

She put her book down and leant back
Remembering.
Why now?

Why ask questions she said to herself
Let things be
Let them happen as they will
No one is here to judge me
No one

Through the open window
a ray of sunshine came in and created dancing patterns on her desk.
She drank in the beauty of the instant
and that single moment was all that mattered.

The sunshine beckoned and said:
"Come outside!"
And she did.

She met a beautiful tree
and a shadow
"Who are you?" she said
but the shadow stared back and remained silent
Some days she was a complete mystery to herself...



25 comments

  1. thank you for inspiring a sweet smile

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    1. Thanks, Tammie. Sometimes it feels nice to sing a different tune and look at the stories that weave themselves in and out of our lives!

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  2. I have just discovered your beautiful blog. This post is something I understand perfectly. Love your style!

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    1. Thank you, Sandy. So nice of you to visit and to leave a comment!

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  3. What a wonderful post this is, Sandra!
    I truly enjoyed reading it.

    Wishing you a beautiful week.

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    1. Thank you, Lisa. Writing isn't the same as just showing pretty images and may not appeal to everyone, but it's a form of expression I enjoy so it's nice to be able to include it in this space sometimes!

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  4. Love your words along with these photos, so nicely done Sandra. Love the curtains on the floor with the pattern so pretty and I can imagine you standing outside ready to see Spring.

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  5. Barbara, I love watching my curtains when the sun reaches them and when the window is open and they move in the breeze.

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  6. Comfort and joy!
    Love the shadow photo....enjoy your day!

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    1. Thank you for your visit, Forest Dream Weaver!

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  7. Beautiful words and exquisite pictures Sandra. I truly enjoyed your post xx

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    1. Thank you, Chel, so happy to hear that you found enjoyment in this post!

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  8. I'm engaged by your story, Sandra - both your thoughts inside and out. I love the curtain pattern reflected in the sunlight. Some days it's good to let our minds wander to see where we end up.

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    1. Thank you, Barb. I like it when you say your last phrase: "some days it's good to let our minds wander to see where we end up." Exactly!

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  9. Lovely poem Sandra. You are a real poetry master !

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    1. Thank you, Lasse. Sometimes, little stories just want to be born!

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  10. Your ability to weave words and photos together is truly inspiring! You are so gifted, and I loved this little story.
    Kate :}

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    1. That's such a friendly comment, Kate. I'm glad you liked the story. I do rather enjoy telling them!

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  11. I really enjoy reading your stories too, Sandra, along with seeing your photographs. Isn't it amazing that there are always new things to learn about ourselves?

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    1. Thank you, Kim! It's true, we never stop learning. I love it!

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  12. I can feel your "I'm okay with staying inside but..." and then your heart leaps out when you can take yourself outside! Your photos tell a wonderful story. That shadow, she is your constant companion, not a mystery, just someone who is always with you.

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    1. Thanks for popping in, Mary! I love shadows of all sorts and I do very much love their aura of mystery!

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