tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13085503575154920002024-03-12T19:59:02.228-05:00Julie A Carda<a href="http://www.julieacarda.com/">HOME</a> | <a href="http://www.julieacarda.com/books.html">Books</a> | <a href="http://www.julieacarda.com/bio.html">Bio</a>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.comBlogger413125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-17273807735739153892012-06-16T18:00:00.000-05:002012-06-16T18:00:03.766-05:00Fiery Dragon 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-46p_CuSEJ1Y/T9zcipca83I/AAAAAAAAAfk/oK6Ab9YiQcI/s1600/Lava+Butte+June+2012+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-46p_CuSEJ1Y/T9zcipca83I/AAAAAAAAAfk/oK6Ab9YiQcI/s320/Lava+Butte+June+2012+006.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Like water is known to do, the water year 2011surged, flooded and receded revealing a crudely carved landscape. This piece of majestic twisted wood in the great lava fields of the Oregon high desert is all fiery dragon energy. Fire is transformation. 2012 is a fire year in the Dagara tradition. Notice the lack of postings from last year. What are the most natural human behaviors to take on when caught up in turbulent water? Take a breath, hold onto something that floats, and move with the current. I held my breath in 2011, held onto supportive loved ones, and moved. In the beginning of 2012, I started catching my breath. What I choose now is to do neither. Instead, I breathe and marvel at what has shown up in my life.Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-66440580480556545692011-01-01T08:00:00.001-06:002011-01-01T08:00:04.375-06:00Happy New Year 2011!Welcome the year of Water...Welcome the year of Hope...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TR6RwGSOhWI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/-qwKElMjVvc/s1600/677844-R1-029-13_009.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TR6RwGSOhWI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/-qwKElMjVvc/s320/677844-R1-029-13_009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557039245728580962" border="0" /></a>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-48877664576424329742010-12-31T20:30:00.001-06:002010-12-31T20:30:00.704-06:00Good Bye 2010!And so we bid farewell to the Earth year...<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TR6RIuhjXEI/AAAAAAAAAVI/DZX_CUjF8mU/s1600/677844-R1-019-8_004%2B-%2BCopy.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TR6RIuhjXEI/AAAAAAAAAVI/DZX_CUjF8mU/s320/677844-R1-019-8_004%2B-%2BCopy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557038569335512130" border="0" /></a>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-73501682931443010132010-12-21T08:00:00.002-06:002010-12-21T08:00:10.746-06:00Segment Eleven: Reunion of Yin and Yang<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He’d promised to get her when all was in alignment.<span style=""> </span>He’d promised to make the magic so strong that only she could break the spell.<span style=""> </span>That’s why he hadn’t touched her.<span style=""> </span>He’d pledged to keep his energy separate until she was ready.<span style=""> </span>She had to initiate the contact. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >The combusted heat from her core burst through her hands, feet, and scalp.<span style=""> </span>She leaned in and brushed her lips across his.<span style=""> </span>He moaned.<span style=""> </span>She pressed closer, wanting nothing more than to consume him.<span style=""> </span>He opened to her hunger.<span style=""> </span>She traced his lips with her tongue and slipped deep inside him.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Thunder crashed and the building trembled.<span style=""> </span>She drew back by mere inches.<span style=""> </span>Their chests heaved.<span style=""> </span>She nuzzled his smoothly- shaven cheek.<span style=""> </span>The subtle scent of crushed pine needles reminded her of his past.<span style=""> </span>Streaks of blue and orange light enveloped them.<span style=""> </span>Without knowledge of movement, she was standing with him.<span style=""> </span>In the wake of the electrically-charged air, she clung to him, her arms entwined around his neck, his around her waist.<span style=""> </span>He placed his forehead against hers.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“You found me,” she murmured.<span style=""> </span>Incredulity filled her mind.<span style=""> </span>Her soul rang with ecstasy at finding her other half.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“We’re complete,” he said.<span style=""> </span>“Are you ready to merge?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“I’ve been ready an eternity.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Foreheads touching, she blended her energy with his.<span style=""> </span>The couch, the floor, the building disappeared.<span style=""> </span>Angelic harmonies sang out.<span style=""> </span>Blue light swirled, prickling her skin, releasing her human cell structure from the strict confines of physical form.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Clinging to him, she curled her naked toes in the rain-slogged grass while water from above poured over them.<span style=""> </span>Air whirled and heat engulfed them. The long awaited transition combined their souls.<span style=""> </span>Nature danced in elation as her ethereal light blended with his and shot skyward like a roman candle exploding to become one with the heavens.<span style=""> </span>After the assault, the clouds scudded away.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >The clear star-sprinkled sky sighed at the earth below.<span style=""> </span>In the village, a pine-scented breeze wove through the narrow corridor between houses and spun the wind chimes outside an abandoned gray stone building.<span style=""> </span>A villager on his way to his fishing boat glanced upward.<span style=""> </span>He smiled at the sound of the chimes striking the ancient grey stone wall, thankful the hurricane winds and torrential rain had blasted the rusted metal so that it once again rang out sweet sounds of joy.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></p><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Copyright 2010: All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or unknown, in any information storage or retrieval system, or for any other use without express permission from author is forbidden.</span></span></span></span>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-77385602259382472422010-12-19T08:00:00.002-06:002010-12-19T08:00:01.378-06:00Segment Ten: Reunion of Yin and Yang<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She removed her heavy rubber boots, then crossed the room in stocking feet to the love seat positioned before a simple gray stone fireplace.<span style=""> </span>As she sat adjacent him, a log snapped and released a brilliant blue spark.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She turned to study him and sucked in a breath.<span style=""> </span>“You need to understand that your contract doesn’t contain my real name.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“I know.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >The gentle timbre of his voice quelled her shock.<span style=""> </span>She gulped back the constriction in her throat. “Are you also a psychic?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“In a way.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Katherine held her back rigid, her muscles contracting like a corset squeezing any remaining oxygen from her lungs.<span style=""> </span>She took in his composure.<span style=""> </span>Solid, confident.<span style=""> </span>Gray Stone had positioned himself in the opposite corner of the loveseat, an arm draped along the gentle curving back, the other resting on the padded armrest.<span style=""> </span>Her curiosity battled fear.<span style=""> </span>How good was he?<span style=""> </span>She had to know.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Say it.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“What?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“My real name.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Celestine.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >The air in the room swirled about her face, fanning her skin.<span style=""> </span>Intense heat raced into her extremities.<span style=""> </span>A magnetic current drew her toward him.<span style=""> </span>The satin fabric on the couch aided her approach.<span style=""> </span>He didn’t break eye contact with her but neither did he move a muscle.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >From her peripheral vision she caught the flare of the flames.<span style=""> </span>Blue streaks infused the bright orange, then seemed to thread outward reaching toward her like long probing fingers.<span style=""> </span>She blinked to clear the illusion.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She stopped inches from his face.<span style=""> </span>Nostrils flaring, he took a breath and held his confident position.<span style=""> </span>Was he afraid of her?<span style=""> </span>Had she turned the tables?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Say it again.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Celestine,” he whispered.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Her heart swelled. Time collided-past, present, future.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“It is you!” the breathy whisper escaped her parted lips.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></p><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Copyright 2010: All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or unknown, in any information storage or retrieval system, or for any other use without express permission from author is forbidden.</span></span></span></span>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-44060067578798555992010-12-15T08:00:00.002-06:002010-12-15T08:00:00.502-06:00Segment Nine: Reunion of Yin and Yang<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Katherine’s ears hummed.<span style=""> </span>A vitality she’d never known existed coursed through her blood.<span style=""> </span>Whatever had happened here in the last hour had taken her away from the brainless desperation she’d felt for the past year.<span style=""> </span>Wasn’t this what she’d hoped to find when she’d answered the ad?<span style=""> </span>A distraction from her internal absurdities?<span style=""> </span>She shifted her focus to the room and the window displaying a darkened street beyond.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >So what if he could create the illusion of darkness? Magic always had a simple explanation.<span style=""> </span>The rain that continued to pound the roof and spatter the windows provided adequate comfort and grounding in reality.<span style=""> </span>She drew satisfaction that his magical abilities didn’t include changing the weather.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >One thing that hadn’t been stripped from her identity was her curiosity.<span style=""> </span>From what she’d witnessed thus far, Mr. Stone had a phenomenal gift for magic to rival any Los Vegas act.<span style=""> </span>Maybe he would reveal his proprietary secrets.<span style=""> </span>Maybe his secrets would afford her the luxury to leave her turbulent, mind-numbing past behind once and for all.<span style=""> </span>Illusion after all was the life she lived as well. Lord knew her brain needed something other than watching fishing boats come and go each day and as for the practical matter of money...the meager funds left in her possession weren’t going to support her much longer.<span style=""> </span>To run away or stay?<span style=""> </span>Was fear to be her constant companion? Her pressing question in the moment was either control it or be controlled.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She tapped her index finger against her lips.<span style=""> </span>Besides his invigorating mental repartee, the idea of becoming an intimate partner with him lured her internal ache to feel whole.<span style=""> </span>The town was small.<span style=""> </span>So far nobody else had shown the least interest in getting to know her.<span style=""> </span>One thing for sure, it wasn’t like she needed to move at lightening speed to get to know him.<span style=""> </span>She’d probably be staying for eternity. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Mr. Stone coughed, then smiled.<span style=""> </span>She’d been staring in silence at some fixed point on the wall.<span style=""> </span>A stance familiar to her after months of standing at her window watching the horizon change from day to night.<span style=""> </span>His brown-eyed gaze warmed her skin like the heat from the sun.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >In that moment, he seemed to swallow her.<span style=""> </span>The faint twinkle in his irises, dispelled the passion of his intent and brought her a soothing balm.<span style=""> </span>Even before her identity change, no man had looked upon her with such desire. Who was she to turn down an opportunity to change her misfortune?<span style=""> </span>Perhaps this man was, at the very least, worthy of a conversation.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >The problem was her background.<span style=""> </span>If he could see into her with such intensity, he’d know where she veered from absolute truth into fabrication.<span style=""> </span>But then, he held his own magical secrets to be used as collateral in the partnership.<span style=""> </span>He trusted her, though lord knew why.<span style=""> </span>Could she trust him enough to reveal her past?<span style=""> </span>Enough to perhaps kiss him, enough to be...a lover?<span style=""> </span></span></p> <span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Only one way to find out.<br /><br /></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Copyright 2010: All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or unknown, in any information storage or retrieval system, or for any other use without express permission from author is forbidden.</span></span></span></span>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-1195543022956826012010-12-12T08:00:00.002-06:002010-12-12T08:00:00.888-06:00Segment Eight: Reunion of Yin and Yang<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Men and women don’t get intimate after a few minutes of introduction.”<span style=""> </span>She blew upward at a strand of dry hair which had fallen over her eyes.<span style=""> </span>The sudden puff lifted the feather light fringe.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Perhaps my observations of your culture are skewed.”<span style=""> </span>The room had become warm.<span style=""> </span>He removed his suit jacket and loosened his tie while maintaining eye contact.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Well, naturally there are exceptions.<span style=""> </span>But I’m not one of those exceptions.”<span style=""> </span>She crossed her arms and looked away.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“No, I can see you’re put together wrong.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She whipped her gaze back to meet his.<span style=""> </span>“What do you mean by that?<span style=""> </span>You don’t think I have the right equipment to put out?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Now he’d insulted her.<span style=""> </span>He furrowed his brow.<span style=""> </span>“What is this expression, ‘put out’?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Through closed lips, she released a breath which resembled a huff.<span style=""> </span>“It’s a term having to do with sexual interaction.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Well then, I believe,” he said, shaking his finger side to side, “No, I know you’re equipped to put out just fine.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“This is the most ridiculous conversation I’ve ever had.<span style=""> </span>You’ve completely side-tracked me.<span style=""> </span>And, don’t think I don’t know what I’m talking about.<span style=""> </span>This room changed-again-and I want to know how you’re managing such a feat.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Magic,” he said.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Well I know that.<span style=""> </span>I just want to know how.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“You can’t know that until we know each other more intimately.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Arrrrh.”<span style=""> </span>She shook her fists at the ceiling and scrambled to the coat stand.<span style=""> </span>“Now we’re back to the beginning of this whole mess.<span style=""> </span>I’m out of here.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He slapped his palm over the raincoat and hook.<span style=""> </span>“Listen, Katherine, I seem to have gone about this in the wrong way.<span style=""> </span>I’m not about to force you to do anything you don’t want to do.<span style=""> </span>For my part, I’d like to pretend this conversation hasn’t happened and begin again.<span style=""> </span>If you’d like to do the same, please join me by the fire.<span style=""> </span>If not....” </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He shrugged and walked away.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></p><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Copyright 2010: All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or unknown, in any information storage or retrieval system, or for any other use without express permission from author is forbidden.</span></span></span></span>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-45076420323865069632010-12-08T08:00:00.002-06:002010-12-08T08:00:10.381-06:00Segment Seven: Reunion of Yin and Yang<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“You’ve made all the effort here—taken a chance,” he said.<span style=""> </span>“For this I’m truly appreciative.<span style=""> </span>You are a heaven sent answer.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Her taut shoulders drooped. She lowered the hand clutching her coat.<span style=""> </span>He reached out and gave a gentle tug to remove it from her grasp.<span style=""> </span>In reflex, she clung to the garment more tightly, creating a veritable shield between them.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“I...think I should just go. Pretend I never came here.<span style=""> </span>Just tear up the contract.” Her voice lacked volume and conviction.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“The document cannot be destroyed.<span style=""> </span>It is legally binding.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He eyed the rapid palpitations of her heart, visible against the fabric of her lavender sweater.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She jutted her chin.<span style=""> </span>“Don’t be ridiculous.<span style=""> </span>People quit jobs all the time. And, you haven’t shared any proprietary information with me yet.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >With her distracted state, she’d relaxed her grasp on her raincoat.<span style=""> </span>He whisked it onto the rack, then faced her.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Oh, but I have.<span style=""> </span>That’s why this contract is different.<span style=""> </span>You’ve already been privy to confidential information.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Her eyes sparked with alertness.<span style=""> </span>“How?<span style=""> </span>We’ve shared tea and very little else.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She clenched her fists on her hips.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Enough of the slow and easy-going method.<span style=""> </span>He’d waited too many lifetimes to waste another second on resistant drivel.<span style=""> </span>He waved his hand and the room was awash in candlelight.<span style=""> </span>Strains of soothing music played from the recesses of the dark corners.<span style=""> </span>Beyond the windows, night had fallen.<span style=""> </span>A fire danced in the nearby grate. <span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Katherine gasped and wavered to her knees.<span style=""> </span>“Tell me I’m not going crazy.” She cast a wild glance at the door. One fisted hand covered her mouth.<span style=""> </span>Her eyes welled with unshed tears.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Who are you?<span style=""> </span>Why me?” The uttered words were little more than a whisper beneath her hand. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“I told you.<span style=""> </span>I’m Gray Stone.<span style=""> </span>You answered the ad.<span style=""> </span>You promised me complete confidence.<span style=""> </span>Have you so little character left that you’d renege on a contract?<span style=""> </span>If you are patient, I promise enlightenment is but a breath away.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She shook her head, but he wasn’t clear if it meant denial, disbelief, or rejection. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Her breath came in harsh gasps now.<span style=""> </span>She pressed her fingertips to her temples and sat back on her heels.<span style=""> </span>“What kind of drug did you put in the food?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He crouched until he could make eye contact with her.<span style=""> </span>“Poison you?<span style=""> </span>Never.<span style=""> </span>I did nothing to coerce you.<span style=""> </span>You came of your free will.<span style=""> </span>I distinctly remember you wanted to be a partner in adventure and magic.<span style=""> </span>I’m simply holding you to your pledge.<span style=""> </span>You promised full confidence in me.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Yes, but I thought you meant a job.”<span style=""> </span>Her voice strengthened.<span style=""> </span>While maintaining eye contact, she scooted back.<span style=""> </span>With the wall behind her for support, she carefully slid upward.<span style=""> </span>He stood.<span style=""> </span>The candle-light had softened her features, given her skin a golden hue.<span style=""> </span>The rich scent of burning cedar encouraged a serene mood.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Define job.” </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Like....” She tucked her hair behind her ear and glared at him. “Like answering email correspondence, filing, filling in ledgers, listening to clients, booking excursions, that sort of thing.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Where’d you get that idea?<span style=""> </span>If I’d wanted a clerk I would have advertised for one.<span style=""> </span>I specifically requested a partner.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She flattened her palms against the wall, visibly swallowed. “Partner as in lover, wife, not business?”<span style=""> </span>Her eyes sparked.<span style=""> </span>“Your ad should have been under personals, not employment.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He paused.<span style=""> </span>Her irritation was helping her overcome her fear.<span style=""> </span>The tremble in her body had subsided.<span style=""> </span>Perhaps it was best to play into her ire.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Can I help it if the gentleman at the local paper mixed up the placement?<span style=""> </span>You answered the ad.<span style=""> </span>Fate brought you here.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“But you don’t know me.”<span style=""> </span>She thumped her chest with her index finger, then pointed at him.<span style=""> </span>“I don’t know you.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Which is why I suggested we get to know each other.” Gray quelled the urge to tap his toe.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Copyright 2010: All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or unknown, in any information storage or retrieval system, or for any other use without express permission from author is forbidden.</span></span></span></span></p>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-71939769003088486322010-12-05T08:00:00.002-06:002010-12-05T08:00:07.579-06:00Segment Six: Reunion of Yin and Yang<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He drew his hand back from the contract.<span style=""> </span>After rummaging through her purse, she retrieved a pen and added her signature, slowly crafting each letter.<span style=""> </span>From her concentration, he could bet she wasn’t accustomed to writing her new name.<span style=""> </span>Well that would change after the connection.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Upon completion, she flattened her palm on the page and leaned forward to scrutinize the document.<span style=""> </span>“What language is this?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“I believe it’s a derivation of ancient Greek.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“How do I know what I just agreed to?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“What happened to the complete confidence?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He tugged the paper from under her hand, folded the document into an envelope, and placed it in the briefcase.<span style=""> </span>She finished her tea and popped the last strawberry into her mouth.<span style=""> </span>He flipped the center clasp of the case, the subtle snick indicating closure.<span style=""> </span>Onward.<span style=""> </span>He scooted his chair back.<span style=""> </span>“Are you ready to begin?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“So soon?”<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He detected uncertainty in her voice. Heaven help him.<span style=""> </span>Did humans really move so slowly?<span style=""> </span>He kept silent and studied her facial features.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She cleared her throat. “Sure.<span style=""> </span>I guess now is as good a time as any.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Good.”<span style=""> </span>Preparing to stand, he smacked the table top. She startled at the gesture.<span style=""> </span>“First, I need to connect with you.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She furrowed her brows and gave a slight tilt to her chin.<span style=""> </span>“You lost me.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >His energy worked the periphery of her human mind.<span style=""> </span>He snapped his fingers. “I believe you’d say get to know each other more intimately.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She jumped to her feet, her chair crashing backward.<span style=""> </span>“If you’re wanting what I think you’re wanting, you’re utterly despicable!”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She was halfway across the room before his befuddled brain wrapped around her intent.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Wait.<span style=""> </span>It seems we’ve got a misunderstanding.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Darn right! Divulge information my foot.”<span style=""> </span>She took two more steps, her boots squeaking against the polished wood floor.<span style=""> </span>“I didn’t agree to become bosom buddies or offer any special favors in thanks for the job.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Partnership.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Whatever.”<span style=""> </span>She snatched her raincoat from the coat rack.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >With a wave of his hand, he closed the distance between them.<span style=""> </span>She gaped, then snapped her lips together.<span style=""> </span>The coat remained suspended from her stiff fingers.<span style=""> </span>Her skin tone paled.<span style=""> </span>If he didn’t do something quickly, he’d lose her.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Please, forgive me.”<span style=""> </span>He held her captive with his gaze.<span style=""> </span>If she didn’t feel his contrition, he’d be obliged to revise his well-laid plans.<span style=""> </span>She must touch him first, without coercion on his part.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></p><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Copyright 2010: All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or unknown, in any information storage or retrieval system, or for any other use without express permission from author is forbidden.</span></span></span></span>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-23700963637247491532010-12-01T08:00:00.002-06:002010-12-01T08:00:14.938-06:00Segment Five: Reunion of Yin and Yang<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“I…” Her voice cracked. She cleared her throat.<span style=""> </span>“It’s just that I’d like us to know a bit more about each other before I agree.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“But I know all I need.<span style=""> </span>You, and you alone, answered the ad.<span style=""> </span>You are interested in adventure and magic. As for who you are personally, I know that rain makes you unaccountably anxious, and yet you braved the torrential downpour to stand at my front stoop.<span style=""> </span>You adore strawberries.<span style=""> </span>You like milk in your tea.”<span style=""> </span>He ran his hand over his lips in an attempt to mask his amusement.<span style=""> </span>“You have a small purple star located on your left....”<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“What!” Dropping her cup onto the saucer with a clatter, Katherine shoved back her chair and stood.<span style=""> </span>Her skin flushed. He’d overstepped a boundary.<span style=""> </span>The flirting words had somehow escaped his lips.<span style=""> </span>She gripped the edge of the table.<span style=""> </span>Her knuckles whitened.<span style=""> </span>He’d file that away-give no revealing information.<span style=""> </span>Time to salvage the situation.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Forgive me.”<span style=""> </span>He projected his most soothing tone of voice.<span style=""> </span>“I didn’t realize the decorative mark was a sensitive subject.<span style=""> </span>I noticed it when I took your coat.<span style=""> </span>Your sweater had slipped off your shoulder.”<span style=""> </span>He gestured to the exact location.<span style=""> </span>“Please, sit.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >A gust of wind blasted the building and the windows rattled in response.<span style=""> </span>She glanced down at her clothing, smoothed her skirt, and rechecked her oversized sweater.<span style=""> </span>The chair scraped the wood floor as she sat and scooted closer to the table.<span style=""> </span>Cropped layers of straight brunette hair swung forward, shielding her eyes and chin.<span style=""> </span>She reached up and swept the strands behind one ear.<span style=""> </span>The coquettish gesture teased his senses.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Mr. Stone, I’m the one who must apologize.<span style=""> </span>I’ve been nervous since I read the ad.<span style=""> </span>I guess I shouldn’t hide the fact that I really need this job-ah, partnership.<span style=""> </span>If you’re willing to put up with my lack of business experience, I guess I’m willing to pledge my confidence in you.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Good.”<span style=""> </span>Beneath the table, he waved his hand discretely and produced a briefcase he set before him.<span style=""> </span>“I’ve drawn up a contract which will allow me to divulge more information once it’s signed.”<span style=""> </span>The brass locks on the leather case snapped open. He withdrew the papers. “There is a bit of urgency so I hope you don’t mind that I took the liberty of filling in the pertinent information.<span style=""> </span>You’ll just need to sign here.”<span style=""> </span>He pointed to a short black line and shrugged. “I knew you’d be the only one interested.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Yes, well it is a small town.”<span style=""> </span>Her eyes shifted slowly between the paper and his face. <span style=""> </span>“I expect you locals memorize every detail of any newcomer, however I remain at a disadvantage since there are more of you to get to know.”</span></p> <span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >He inserted his finger under his tie and tugged to loosen the noose.<span style=""> </span>Best to let her believe what she wanted.<br /><br /></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Copyright 2010: All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or unknown, in any information storage or retrieval system, or for any other use without express permission from author is forbidden.</span></span></span></span>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-80925521138871616152010-11-28T08:00:00.002-06:002010-11-28T08:00:08.591-06:00Segment Four: Reunion of Yin and Yang<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“I assume you came in response to the ad?” he asked.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Yes, I-”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“You understand this is a partnership.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Yes, but-”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Are you prepared to do whatever is asked of you?” As if they had a mind of their own, his fingers rolled out a rhythm.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Her spoon clinked against her tea cup.<span style=""> </span>“I don’t consider anything too menial if that’s what you’re asking.” </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She met his purposeful gaze with one of her own.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He nodded and fisted his drumming fingers lest he appear too eager.<span style=""> </span>It couldn’t be that easy.<span style=""> </span>She seemed so amenable. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“The beginning will be the most demanding, most difficult.”<span style=""> </span>He watched as her eyes hinted at uncertainty.<span style=""> </span>“You’ll have to place complete confidence in me in order for this merger to work.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Merger?”<span style=""> </span>She fidgeted with her cup, clasping and releasing the porcelain rim with slender fingers.<span style=""> </span>“Is there another company involved?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“No.<span style=""> </span>Figure of speech.<span style=""> </span>This partnership is a merger.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >A slight smile molded her lips.<span style=""> </span>“Oh.<span style=""> </span>Perhaps you could give me more information about the job.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Partnership.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Sorry.”<span style=""> </span>Katherine lowered her gaze, pinched the bridge of her nose, exhaled, then tucked her hand under the table.<span style=""> </span>“Yes, you did say that.<span style=""> </span>I’m just a bit unclear.”<span style=""> </span>She raised her chin.<span style=""> </span>“The ad was very brief.<span style=""> </span>You must admit that ‘Needed: a partner in the business of adventure and magic’ is a bit nebulous.<span style=""> </span>I guess I assumed you’d want someone knowledgeable in the travel industry.<span style=""> </span>I’ve traveled extensively, but have never run a business.<span style=""> </span>Can you explain a bit about what you’d expect me to contribute?<span style=""> </span>It might help me to understand if we’d suit.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Oh, we suit.”<span style=""> </span>At her startled expression, he coughed.<span style=""> </span>“In case you haven’t noticed, nobody else showed up.”<span style=""> </span>She glanced over her shoulder at the closed door.<span style=""> </span>Maybe he’d need to take another tack with her.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He leaned forward. “Do you believe in fate?”<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She leaned back, her eyes full of doubt. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“I do,” he said.<span style=""> </span>“Fate sent you to my door.<span style=""> </span>Whatever you possess, I need.<span style=""> </span>Of this, I am certain.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Copyright 2010: All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or unknown, in any information storage or retrieval system, or for any other use without express permission from author is forbidden.</span></span></span></span></p>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-78696256147158661762010-11-24T08:00:00.004-06:002010-11-24T08:00:06.763-06:00Segment Three: Reunion of Yin and Yang<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Gray took in the discomfited creature.<span style=""> </span>Nobody else was coming.<span style=""> </span>She was the one.<span style=""> </span>He might have dried her out a bit on the first pass, but the shock of the room had already shaken her and he didn’t want her to bolt. He’d prefer to avoid losing her.<span style=""> </span>He needed her.<span style=""> </span>If she turned him down, he’d never be able to finish.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He had an ancient contract.<span style=""> </span>She’d come on the auspices of a job.<span style=""> </span>He nudged her toward the table.<span style=""> </span>With narrowed eyes, he observed her back.<span style=""> </span>While she focused on the table, he gave the air a swirl-just a subtle push of energy to speed the drying process.<span style=""> </span>She’d never notice.<span style=""> </span>Dry clothes and wavy hair seemed important to her comfort-and he did want to see to her comfort.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >She hesitated beside the table.<span style=""> </span>He reached around her and pulled the chair back, careful not to touch her, but close enough to sniff the fragrance of roses emanating from her hair.<span style=""> </span>She lowered herself slowly, then lifted her chin and gazed into his eyes.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“And, your name?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Gray Stone.”<span style=""> </span>He focused on her eyes. If only she were capable of seeing inside his mind, then his mission could proceed effortlessly.<span style=""> </span>But the spell was cast by his own hand and therefore impenetrable.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He quickly rounded the table and sat.<span style=""> </span>With as much calm as he could muster, he poured tea and offered her a plate of fruit and pastries.<span style=""> </span>In silence, she selected a few strawberries and added milk to her tea.<span style=""> </span>Hints of bergamot filled the air as she stirred the steaming liquid.<span style=""> </span>He flattened his palms on the coarse linen-covered table and refrained from the urge to drum his fingers.<span style=""> </span>How to proceed?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></p><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Copyright 2010: All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or unknown, in any information storage or retrieval system, or for any other use without express permission from author is forbidden.</span></span></span></span>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-42791048824254435632010-11-21T08:00:00.005-06:002010-11-21T08:00:03.920-06:00Segment Two: Reunion of Yin and Yang<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >The stark environment mystified her and she took several steps backward. Not a chair or a table.<span style=""> </span>No furniture at all. She turned.<span style=""> </span>Not even a coat rack in sight.<span style=""> </span>When she’d looked through the window ten minutes ago, the room had been fully decorated.<span style=""> </span>The tiny hairs on her neck tingled.<span style=""> </span>Her heart thudded.<span style=""> </span>She was already an emotional wreck. This interview was going to be a bust.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Heavy footfalls echoed from the rear of the cavernous room, the sound indicating a fast approach.<span style=""> </span>A man, she presumed the one who’d unlocked the door, stopped in front of her.<span style=""> </span>Katherine stared, her dripping raincoat suspended from her trembling fingers.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He scowled, the action bringing together a set of thick black brows.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Sorry,” he said. He waved his hand in a circle indicating the empty space.<span style=""> </span>Within that heartbeat, the area manifested a tasteful array of overstuffed furniture.<span style=""> </span>She blinked.<span style=""> </span>Her eyes wouldn’t have lied.<span style=""> </span>What had just happened?<span style=""> </span>She squeezed her free hand against her thigh to still the jitters racing along her nerve endings.<span style=""> </span>A well laid table displayed a morning repast.<span style=""> </span>She edged back and her shoulder bumped an ornate coat tree.<span style=""> </span>The man lifted the rain slicker from her fingertips and slipped it onto an empty hook.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He gestured toward the table.<span style=""> </span>“Shall we, Katherine?” </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >He knew her name?<span style=""> </span>She wiped her damp palms on her skirt.<span style=""> </span>She had to get a grip.<span style=""> </span>There wasn’t any reason to believe malice of intent. After all, maybe he’d been introduced to her while she’d been too new in town to remember names and faces.<span style=""> </span>As for the room....<span style=""> </span>She clamped her teeth on the delicate skin inside her lower lip.<span style=""> </span>Her nerves refused to calm.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“You are hungry?”<span style=""> </span>He raised a brow.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >The quizzical expression demanded a response she wasn’t prepared to give.<span style=""> </span>How had he known she’d been too keyed up to eat or even swallow more than a drop of tea this morning? Her stomach clenched in protest, whether from fear or hunger she wasn’t sure.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >So the guy knew her name and offered common hospitality.<span style=""> </span>Would that make a normal person jumpy?<span style=""> </span>Perhaps the mental fatigue had taken a toll, and the insidious appearance of insanity had reared its ugly head.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >It could happen.<span style=""> </span>Identity change could make someone lose a grasp on reality.<span style=""> </span>Years of professional training, and then to never work in her field of expertise again certainly added to the anxiety.<span style=""> </span>No family.<span style=""> </span>No friends.<span style=""> </span>She swallowed back the growing knot at the base of her throat.<span style=""> </span>She needed a job.<span style=""> </span>Something to bring order to her life.<span style=""> </span>A tangible reason to get up every morning.<span style=""> </span>Gutting fish wasn’t going to do it.<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);"><br /></span></span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);"><br /></span></span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Copyright 2010: All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or unknown, in any information storage or retrieval system, or for any other use without express permission from author is forbidden.</span></span></span></span></p>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-89334872878371039652010-11-17T08:00:00.007-06:002010-11-17T20:10:44.752-06:00Segment One: Reunion of Yin and Yang<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--><img src="file:///C:/Users/MRS%7E1.CAR/AppData/Local/Temp/moz-screenshot-2.png" alt="" /><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Katherine crushed the soggy rolled up November 14, 2010 newspaper.<span style=""> </span>A three line ad, circled several times in red marker, bled, marring the palm of her hand.<span style=""> </span>Her brown galoshes provided a welcome shield from the rain slick sidewalk.<span style=""> </span>Remnants of a late season hurricane dropped buckets of water on the northern coastal fishing village.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >The chill-moist air contained familiar odors from the fish house.<span style=""> </span>Mornings were dedicated to gutting, filleting, and freezing, afternoons to disinfecting the tables.<span style=""> </span>A person could determine the time of day by the smells sweeping through the streets.<span style=""> </span>During the past three months, she’d learned the ancient business employed half the village.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >With the back of her newspaper-laden hand, she brushed dripping strands of hair from her brow.<span style=""> </span>The edge of her yellow slicker flapped as the wind sailed down the narrow corridor between houses.<span style=""> </span>The brisk air caught under her skirt, swirled around her thighs, and she shivered. Above the adjacent door, tuneless rusted chimes clanged, the sound grating her nerves.<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >If a professional appearance guaranteed the job, she’d be rejected.<span style=""> </span>The plate glass window insured her makeup was intact, but the flirty curls she’d coaxed into her straight hair an hour ago, appeared flat-ironed.<span style=""> </span>Drowned rat was probably an apt description she would earn from her potential employer.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >The sign dangling from a small plastic hook on the exterior door announced “Closed”.<span style=""> </span>She stretched her arm, baring her wrist, and eyed her watch.<span style=""> </span>Eight fifty am. Appointments began at nine am.<span style=""> </span>She hunched her shoulders against the next gust.<span style=""> </span>Where were the other applicants?<span style=""> </span>The unmistakable squeak of rubber boots sounded behind her.<span style=""> </span>She crossed her arms over her chest and inched closer to the locked door.<span style=""> </span>The line formed at the rear.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Pardon me,” a smooth baritone voice commanded.<span style=""> </span>She glanced behind, catching a glimpse of a male chin, then quickly dropped her gaze as wind blown rain threatened to run down her neck. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >“You’re blocking the entry.” The oddly accented words were foreign to the village. <span style=""> </span>If she wasn’t mistaken, there had been a hint of some European dialect.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Katherine edged to the side of the gray stone building, leaving just enough room to give the man access while she remained protected under the overhanging eaves.<span style=""> </span>The man, well concealed beneath the hood of a blue raincoat, quickly inserted a key, turned the knob, and walked into the building.<span style=""> </span>She glanced left, right, shoved the soggy newspaper into her pocket, then scurried forward.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";" >The room was warm and blessedly dry.<span style=""> </span>Scents of lemon-oiled wood within competed with the wet earth just outside the partially opened door.<span style=""> </span>A gust of wind whirled inside and slammed the entrance door closed.<span style=""> </span>Overhead, bright lights flickered to life.<span style=""> </span>She swept back her rain hood, released the metal fasteners down the front, slipped off her coat and turned to take in the well lighted room. The fine hairs at the nap of her neck rose. <span style=""> </span></span></p> <span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Something was wrong.<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Copyright 2010: All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or unknown, in any information storage or retrieval system, or for any other use without express permission from author is forbidden.</span></span></span><br /><span style=""> </span></span>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-38047585710635724762010-11-15T08:00:00.002-06:002010-11-17T20:12:59.810-06:00Serial Stories<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTzowcVC3I/AAAAAAAAAUE/SHZsL-Wnmgg/s1600/shrine+006.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTzowcVC3I/AAAAAAAAAUE/SHZsL-Wnmgg/s320/shrine+006.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531814123841850226" border="0" /></a><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">For my mother, serial stories were a cherished moment in her busy day.<span style=""> </span>Weekly and monthly periodicals targeting women contained wonderful, uplifting, and engaging stories that would be spun out over a period of time from a month to a year.<span style=""> </span>I loved going to my grandmother’s house and collecting all the back issues of these types of magazines and reading the entire story at once.<span style=""> </span><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">My patience for waiting for a further installment has never been good.<span style=""> </span>Anyone remember waiting for the next Nancy Drew Mystery to arrive?<span style=""> </span>Or more recently, for the next episode of Kinsey Millhone in the Sue Grafton alphabetized set?<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">As the 2010, Dagara Earth year draws to a close and the Dagara Water year, 2011, looms on the horizon, I am going to resurrect a short, sweet story told in my style of metaphysics blended with paranormal and laced with the subtly of water.<span style=""> </span>If you miss a segment, you can always refer to the archive.<span style=""> </span>Hope you’ll visit each Wednesday and Sunday though December 21st for your engaging moment.</p>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-87154375783715252742010-11-14T10:48:00.001-06:002010-11-14T10:48:00.503-06:00Pathway for Water<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTyz5WYp2I/AAAAAAAAAT8/g8gIjW76a40/s1600/CIMG3426.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTyz5WYp2I/AAAAAAAAAT8/g8gIjW76a40/s320/CIMG3426.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531813215699773282" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255); font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">A pathway where water flows beneath your feet, peeking out here and there in a bit of cut away cement. </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255); font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br /><br />"I take delight in the peace of a river, flowing so gently to the strength of the sea, I take delight in the love that is flowing just like a river between you and me." I don't know who composed those words, but I find myself drawn to them whenever I recall walking this path. </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255); font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br /><br />As winter approaches--yes we experienced our first snow fall last night, I'm reminded that regardless of the topical conditions--specifically ice, water continues to flow beneath. Go with the flow. Experience says trying to go against the stream is a wasted use of good energy.</span>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-73801102457733433462010-11-07T08:00:00.001-06:002010-11-07T08:00:02.648-06:00Stone Talk<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMT0Yh_WNfI/AAAAAAAAAUM/wLRVLZfFzug/s1600/Estes+Park+2008+077.JPG"> <img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMT0Yh_WNfI/AAAAAAAAAUM/wLRVLZfFzug/s320/Estes+Park+2008+077.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531814944595916274" border="0" /></a><br />So many stories all in one place. If I could sit with each stone for a day, I'd be here for months. It brings to mind the mystics who seek the mountain tops to be at oneness with inner knowing. Our sweet earth, offers these places as an outpouring of wisdom from the ancients. Even the picture allows me to re-member and be at peace.Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-19624559088376125642010-11-06T08:00:00.001-05:002010-11-06T08:00:04.555-05:00At Water's Edge<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTwxykrbKI/AAAAAAAAATk/g_tLX8wwyJs/s1600/0919091757.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 330px; height: 247px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTwxykrbKI/AAAAAAAAATk/g_tLX8wwyJs/s320/0919091757.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531810980497681570" border="0" /></a><br />No geese in this picture. I hear them in the morning if I can get outside before I leave for the day. The soil next to this small lake is dry and cracked. We have had very little rain since September. The weather patterns are worthy of note. This is a very different, unpredictable fall.Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-74424390594986864302010-11-05T08:00:00.001-05:002010-11-05T08:00:01.714-05:00October 30th Harvest<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TM4luM4zDtI/AAAAAAAAAUU/-EC_9TdA4CM/s1600/CIMG4487.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TM4luM4zDtI/AAAAAAAAAUU/-EC_9TdA4CM/s320/CIMG4487.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534402467748581074" border="0" /></a>I have a difficult time just pulling up plants when there is still food production in process. With reluctance, I did clean up the tomato plants heavy with green fruit that would never ripen in the cooler temps. The herbs are gradually turning brown but the cold crops are certainly holding onto their vibrant color. This made a delicious meal. Chopped up. Sauteed in butter and garlic. And then, topped with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese.Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-39837047188526267182010-11-04T08:00:00.001-05:002010-11-04T08:00:11.712-05:00Food Appreciation<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTx6oS9LLI/AAAAAAAAAT0/eb0bwjN8GOY/s1600/CIMG4345.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTx6oS9LLI/AAAAAAAAAT0/eb0bwjN8GOY/s320/CIMG4345.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531812231869443250" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Need I say more?<br />We really can feed ourselves from a very small amount of land.<br /></div>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-48724826966017171932010-11-03T08:00:00.001-05:002010-11-03T08:00:05.210-05:00Holding On<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTwL-ccFoI/AAAAAAAAATc/my54foYP7Aw/s1600/CIMG3207.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTwL-ccFoI/AAAAAAAAATc/my54foYP7Aw/s320/CIMG3207.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531810330849318530" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">What do you hold dear to your heart? </span><br /></div>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-55549940358233008132010-11-02T08:00:00.001-05:002010-11-02T08:00:07.705-05:00Beauty in the Web of Life<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTvb2h45TI/AAAAAAAAATU/7oxB1pK_x1Q/s1600/CIMG3514.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTvb2h45TI/AAAAAAAAATU/7oxB1pK_x1Q/s320/CIMG3514.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531809504090973490" border="0" /></a>A beautiful web from summer. As I enter the cusp of my quiet, creative season, I think of the energy of spider. I had many webs this year, though many are now abandoned and clumped in a sticky nondescript mass of white. <br /><br />Spider medicine is associated with the magic and energy of creation. Spider is about keeping the feminine energies of creation alive and strong. And, spider is associated with spiral energy, the links with the past and the future. It describes me. Fusing the past into the present and beyond--Kin Domains.Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-46048955724086912402010-11-01T08:00:00.001-05:002010-11-01T08:00:10.751-05:00Last Burst<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTuitcZ-FI/AAAAAAAAATM/UdvdsHbd8xA/s1600/CIMG4426.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qXT1jSdxj3E/TMTuitcZ-FI/AAAAAAAAATM/UdvdsHbd8xA/s320/CIMG4426.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531808522399512658" border="0" /></a>Unusual color for a fall day. There are so many oranges and yellows. These really stand out although in just two days since the photo they have begun to dry and tips of the leaves are now brown. A couple of weeks ago, I snapped a beautiful picture of bee in flight on these very flowers. Since then, I haven't seen any more bees. The nights have dropped into the high thirties.Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-39356435809117571452010-10-31T08:00:00.001-05:002010-10-31T08:00:00.186-05:00The New Economics Institute<a style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;" href="http://neweconomicsinstitute.org/">The New Economics Institute</a> is working to make the new economics, one which supports people and planet, mainstream in the United States. Our current economic system is failing in its essential purpose: to provide fulfilling and healthy lives for all people while nurturing the social and natural systems on which the economic system depends. The New Economics Institute is helping people imagine the kind of economy that is designed to enhance human well-being and ecological health.Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1308550357515492000.post-46823831475978544132010-10-30T08:00:00.001-05:002010-10-30T08:00:05.035-05:00The American Denial of Global Warming<object style="height: 390px; width: 640px"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2T4UF_Rmlio?version=3"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2T4UF_Rmlio?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="640" height="390"></embed></object>Julie A. Cardahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10660570335008743396noreply@blogger.com0