MARY MAHAN DEATHERAGE
Rain droplets on my windshield obscure her face, it’s her platinum blond hair that catches my eye. I have a quick impression of a young woman, possibly a college student? A stylish, chunky knit hat is pulled tight to her brows against the frosty rain. The hat sports a pompom the size of a grapefruit... Continue Reading →
Pick a classmate’s name out of a bowl, keep it a secret, sneak nice notes or small treats into their desk, share a present at the school Christmas party and reveal your identity. Sounds simple, right? If you’re familiar with the Secret Santa game, you’ll know that it’s played in a group during the Christmas... Continue Reading →
When our eyes connect the electricity takes my breath away. We belong together; no doubt about it. She’d strolled past nonchalantly, dreamily browsing. I willed her to look at me. She walked by without the slightest pause. Geez, maybe this wasn't meant to be – again. I startled when she took two steps backward, looking... Continue Reading →
Melt the contradictions into oblivion I tell myself. “Mary, can we discuss the crucifix in your office?” My boss stands awkwardly at the threshold of my cramped office. Instantly defensive, I respond in my most convincing corporate voice, “Is there a problem?” “Let’s chat in my office,” she throws back in a tone clearly asserting... Continue Reading →
Hard, butterscotch candy tried to end me. "Never eat these unless you ask first," Mom warned. Immediately, those golden pieces of heaven with matching cellophane called my name.My friend, Jan and I played with our dolls, our moms chatted. Taking a water break, I spotted the butterscotch in a dish on the table. My... Continue Reading →
Waves glide over my head stealing my breath. Not a swimmer, I push forward toward the prize: a sandbar approximately 200 yards off shore. At least I'm praying that's what it is and not an oceanic mirage. Greg slips easily through the water next to me; damn avid swimmer that he is. We met at... Continue Reading →
“Impressive portfolio … extremely talented … congratulations you are the recipient … scholarship.” I skim the text on my phone. My head whirls with excitement. “She got it. She GOT IT!” I shriek at Stella. Lifting her head, weakly tapping her tail on the floor, Stella is drowsily curious at my outburst. Tears hurry to... Continue Reading →
I sit in the pink semi-darkness of the growing dawn staring into the beautiful eyes of this tiny boy. I am overwhelmed. My breath catches, an ache in my throat, a sob of joy and fear. Fear of the future and joy for what it holds for him. He stares directly back at me.... Continue Reading →
“Be cautious especially when you cross Seventh Street,” she said holding my hands while looking directly into my eyes. “Choose a book and come straight home,” she admonished. I didn’t understand Mom’s trepidation at letting me walk the half mile to the Dixon Public Library. I’d done it a million times; this was the first... Continue Reading →
America, 1914, destination Ellis Island. June 29 marked the beginning of my Italian family in the United States; the day Paul Vittori married Nina. Odd to outsiders, our Italian culture is constructed of a peculiar menagerie of food, jokes, and discipline. Experiencing a life-long food romance, Italians know there is nothing quite like waking up... Continue Reading →
divine ~ clever ~ or ~ whatever 