Water Gun Play

 

I woke up to a loud squeak. 

"What's happening?" I inquired with urgency. 

I saw my children play with water guns in the house. 

"No! we don't play with squirt guns." I disapproved while staring at the wet couch and puddles of water everywhere. 

"But why, mom. It's summertime." they protested in unison.

I took a deep sigh as if I agreed with what they had just said, directed them outdoors.

They both looked confused since the sun was over their head. 

 With a grin, I said, "Carry on! Make a mess; wet all that you want; it'll dry."

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story using the phrase “carry on.” It can be an expression of perseverance or behaving in a particular way. It can even be luggage you take when traveling. Go where the prompt leads!

Steady Gallop

Being an empty nester has more pros than cons. The house is cleaner than before, with not much on the to-do list. The driving from one class to another is bygone. The constant chattering and the back n fourth arguments are on silent mode. 

Over the years, we've taught him the values of Life by discriminating right from wrong and emphasized discipline, respect, and hard work. 

Now, it's time to sit back and watch the show. 

Hopefully, it'll be a stable rhythmic ride where the kiddo will learn new things and move forward with steady gallop like a stallion. 

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In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about a Big Black Horse. It can be a horse, a metaphor or an interpretation of KT Tunstall’s “Big Black Horse and a Cherry Tree.” Go where the prompt leads!

A Tiny Flaw

To the lightly roasted course semolina, add one cup of lukewarm milk. 

Allow it to cook on a slow flame. 

Once it's semi-solid, add half a cup of granulated sugar.

Give it a vigorous stir before turning off the gas.

Now, I'm going to serve the audience. 

I said with a wide smile as I approached them with serving bowls garnished with sliced almonds. 

With fingers crossed, I watched them take a spoonful of my sweet dish into their mouth. 

They ejected the morsel in unison. 

"Major flaw!" one declared.

"You've put salt instead of sugar." the other screeched. 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about the cooking show. It can be any cooking show, real or imagined. Who is there? What happens? Make it fun or follow a disaster. Go where the prompt leads!

Feathers on a Cap

 

"Congratulations!" cheered Soniya's friends as she walked towards them with stretched hands. 

"I did it!" she shouted with glassy eyes and clenched fists. 

Once all the congratulatory messages were through. Her mom slid a handful of feathers under the tassel of her graduation cap.

"What's this for?" Soniya inquired with wide eyes, "Shouldn't I get only one feather since I just graduated." 

"A feather indicates accomplishments, and this is one of them." 

"Huh?" 

"My girl, you are Compassionate, Courageous, Hardworking, Creative, and now you're a graduate proves you've accomplished your goal." 

"Aah! Thank you, Mom, for being my inspiration." 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story that features feathers. It can be a single feather or more. Where did the feather come from? Does it hold meaning to the character or story? Go where the prompt leads!

When Distances become Small

Before the Pandemic, I used to see my clients in person for their healing sessions. 

When the Pandemic struck, energy medicine continued to shine; I can still add a personal touch to each session via Zoom, thanks to technology. 

Energy has no boundaries when there is knowledge and the right intention.  

Today Distance healing is the new norm as I continue to channel the universal energy while setting the intention for my client's welfare. 

Today, the office setting has changed, but the end product remains the same: people continue to smile as their ailments fizzle with no side effects. 

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I can be found at: http://explorereikiworld.com/

June 10, 2021, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about a new way to office. Has the office changed? 

Life on a Leash

 

"Where are you going?"

"Umm, I was planning on going to the mall," said Neena in a meek voice.

"Why? In an hour, it'll be time for my tea." said the master authoritatively, "And won't the endless walking in the mall make you tired?" 

There was silence.

"Go and rest till your next chore rather than galavanting." said the 65-year-old lady in a commanding tone. 

Neena gave out a long sigh as she dragged her feet into the 4*4 room, " I wish I had not taken an advance from my master. I'm on a leash until six months." 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story being leashed. Is it literal or metaphorical? Who or what is leashed. How does it set the tone? Go where the prompt leads!

Travel Plans

 In November, my family and I decided to trek the redwoods. 

The fog, chirp of birds, and redwoods combined to create a calm, moist environment, like the cloud forests. 

 Just then, a buzzing noise caught our attention, and it started getting louder with each second. 

"What's that noise?" asked my son.    

We looked yonder and saw a grey cloud coming our way.

"Duck" was my instant command.

We gave way to them. The swarm of insects passed by us within seconds as if they were on a mission. 

They didn't bother us since we didn't disturb their travel plans. 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story that includes tiny flying insects. Think about how the insects shape the scene or add to the action. Go where the prompt leads!

The D-Day

"So, Monica, when is the D-day?" 

"Soon," she said with a chirp.

I asked anxiously, "Is it that soon that we don't have time to throw you a bachelorette party?" 

"Nah! we always have time for a girl's party," she said with a high five. 

****

Within that week, I arranged a flower theme party and invited all her girlfriends.

That particular evening flowers of all shapes and sizes filled the room. 

We all were clucking around like hens and trodding in floral dresses. 

The to-be bride had a beautiful floral crown, and the bees were having a feast. 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about party hens. Who are these chickens and why do they party? Go where the prompt leads!

A Simple Wish

"Mommy, I love you to the moon and back." 

"Aww! baby! my words are coming back to me." Sheila chuckled as she adjusted her head and wiped the sweat off her forehead.

"Mommy, when can you play with me?" 

"As soon as I feel better, doll." 

Hearing that, Liz closed her eyes and waved her magic-wand in her direction. 

"What did you wish?" Mom inquired when Liz opened her eyes.

Liz placed her tiny hands over her bald head, "My deepest wish is that you get well so we can play together and go out for pizza and burgers." 

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 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about deep wishes. Where is the deep — in the sky, the ground, or outer space? What kind of wishes reside there for whom and why? Go where the prompt leads!

Usain Bolt

"You know, in no time, I'll be the fastest runner on this planet. I'll beat Usain Bolt too," I said to my friend over the telephone as I chewed upon the boiled sweet potatoes that had black salt sprinkled. 

 I saw my Mom grin. 

When I put down the receiver, I inquired. 

"All eat, and no sweat will not make you the fastest runner, sunny boy!" 

"Bolt eats Yam, while I choose to eat Sweet Potatoes that are way more nutritious than the latter. So, for starters, that has notched up my slot." I said with a wide smile. 

  In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story that includes sweet potatoes. 

Birthday Celebrations

"Did you hear me, Joe?" Patty inquired.

"Yes! I got it. I have to be home on time." Said Joe irritably as he walked out the door.

"I bet he'll be late, and there goes all my preparation for his birthday party," Patty whispered to herself as she pulled out the many bowls she had hidden in the oven, away from Joe's sight. 

 "Oh! I know, how about I move the party to his workplace. That way, I won't have to fret over him coming on time." she said with a wide grin and was quick to text all. 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story where a character is in the right place at the right time. It may be cause for celebration! Go where the prompt leads!

Choices

Today, as I stand on the shores of the Pacific Ocean and observe the waves come crashing, I contemplate upon my life. 

The goals I had in mind, but the choices I made, paved an unknown path. 

It made me wonder why I chose to tread on it? Why didn't I give up and decide to pursue my goals instead? 

Just then, droplets of water fall on my face, and a smile crosses my lips. Aah! It gave me happiness and peace of mind. 

It's impressive how life can flow in a flashback anywhere as a river of consciousness. 

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 January 28, 2021, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about life as a river of consciousness. Think about the possibilities of the prompt. Go where the prompt leads!

Mother Nature

"Can your pebble reach that lotus leaf?" queried the six-year-old Robin as he pointed yonder. 

"Oh, yes! Why not?" I said with confidence as I squinted one eye and aimed for that particular leaf that had that flower blooming next to it. 

Kerplop

"Oh! missed it!"I said with a crooked nose dreading that my nephew might be upset. 

 But instead, I heard a "Wow!" 

I frowned then followed his vision. 

There was a cluster of butterflies in the sky very close to the plop. The kaleidoscope was beautiful, as if maple leaves were flying in the sky. 

Mother Nature!! 

  In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story using the contrasting prompts butterfly and stones. The two can be used in any way in your story. Go where the prompt leads!

The Young Cook

"Daddy, your lunch is ready," ten-year-old Mel shouted from the kitchen while trying to balance herself and the plate in her hand.

Dad was quick to rush into the kitchen, "Impressive, Mel." he said with arched eyebrows as he was quick to get the plate from her hands and then help her stay still.

"Yummy! PB&J Sandwich, my favorite!" 

"I can understand the apron, but what's up with the stilettos, doll?" 

"Mom used to wear her heels everywhere. I'm just trying to mimic her, so we don't feel her absence," she said while trying to wear a brave smile. 

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 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story that features stilettos. Who will wear them and why? Go where the prompt leads!

The Art of Cooking

“Yummy! did you cook this?” inquired my teen as he licked the last crumbs off his plate.

“Obviously! In this shutdown, I’ve been cooking every day.” I said in an exasperated tone, which was easily caught upon.

“Chill, Mom. I was complimenting your cooking.” 

That praise made me quickly come and hug him since getting appreciated for my cooking was the last thing I had ever dreamed would happen. 

I had become better at planning my meals with limited ingredients, but to make a delicious one was like a cherry on the cake. 

I guess: Practice makes one perfect. 

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  In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about something a character never dreamed would happen.  Go where the prompt leads!Join in the fun at CarrotRanch. 

The Throne

"Sure, I can babysit my seven-year-old niece." 

"Thanks, Sis." Pedro grinned, "I'll pick her up by 9 p.m."

The evening was going well until Sarah needed to use the potty.

I took her to the bathroom. She stood there with a dazed look.  I beckoned her to sit on the potty; she squealed and placed her fingers on her parted lips, then moved back n forth. 

Perplexed, I left her alone and stood outside. Time ticked away. 

I peeped in to find that she was seated on the floor and playing peek-a-boo with her reflection on the gold-plated toilet. 

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  In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story that glorifies a toilet.  Go where the prompt leads!fff

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The Grinch

"What is that green thingie on my toast?" I inquired with flared nostrils.

"Oh! Sweetie, that's avocado. It's supposed to be very healthy for you." Mom said in a gentle voice as she got busy with the cleanup.

"I just want my PB&J sandwich." I moaned. 

"Besides, I will end up becoming a grinch if I eat these toasts." 

"Who said?" Mom inquired with hands on her hips and a crossed brow.

"Marsha said her brother has turned green ever since he ate avocados."

Then with a brief pause, "I don't want to hate Christmas by becoming a grinch."

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In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story includes avocado toast. How can this be a story or a prop to a story? Use your senses and imagination. Go where the prompt leads! Join the fun at Carrotranch. 

A Brown Watch

My owner was one careless soul. One day she came to Lake Superior for a picnic. She was careful to remove me before a dip but forgot to pick me up after that. 

Time ticked away, and I saw many sunrises and sunsets. 

One evening, I felt a wet grip and realized a canine had fancied my ticking sound. He dropped me in the water when he went to fetch the ball. The waves welcomed me. I found a new home until they swept me over. 

"Hello beautiful lady, what year is it? How much time did I lose?" 

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  In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about lost time. You can write a realistic scenario or something speculative. How does lost time impact the character of your story? Bonus points if you include a 1982 brown rubber watch Go where the prompt leads! Join in the fun at Carrotranch

The Bored Teen

"Pick up your plates, Nate. That's the least you can do around the house," I shouted at my teen in a high decibel.

"Mom! I get tired doing the same chore three times a day." he retorted.

I stopped stirring the pot and gave him a confused look as if he had just declared that he has graduated from college; without going to one. 

He saw that look and muttered, "A teen's life is all about being with friends, and in these times, I've been eating home-cooked food. That is such a chore," and he let out a sigh! 

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In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about chores. 

Two Friends

 "Where's your other slipper?" Mom inquired as Naina came out from her bedroom, wearing just one. 

"Maggie is nibbling on it," she said with a yawn as she placed herself next to her and brushed her labrador fondly. 

Just then, a mouse bolted by, and Maggie woofed along with joy instead of running after her. 
The duo was quick to pull up their feet and gave out a shriek. 

"I adopted her so that she could keep our house free of critters, but instead, she rejoices on their company and is busy with human objects." said the enraged mom.

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story of mice. It can feature any variety of the little critters in any situation. Are the the character or the inciting incident? Use any genre, including BOTS (based on a true story). Go where the prompt leads!