Painted morning sky
just before blinding sun
layers of color

Painted morning sky
just before blinding sun
layers of color
Driving in the mountains, I’m often greeted by a view that takes my breath away. These photos were preceded by a gasp. I love the full moon, as anyone who follows this blog already knows. It was the inspiration for my first book.
But the full moon, hanging low in the still blue sky is magical.
When I moved to Colorado, everyone in the neighborhood called this peak Turtle Rock.
I’ve climbed to the top many times because it’s so close to my house.
It’s where we watched the solar eclipse.
It’s the first climb I took Charlie on back when I could easily pick him up, before he could leap over any obstacle.
It’s where I’ve seen some magnificent sunsets.
It affords 360 views that include the continental divide and most recently dozens of elk.
But it wasn’t until this summer, when I looked at it from this angle, that I understood why it’s called Turtle Rock.
Elk migration from the windows of my house after the snow.
I am pleased to share my entry for Susanna Leonard Hill’s 9th annual writing contest. The full details and rules can be found here: Halloweensie Contest – the fine print
This is a wonderful way to connect with other picture book writers and there are some amazing prizes, too. The basic rules are that the story must be 100 words or less not including the title, no illustrations or illustration notes, and must include the words potion, cobweb, and trick.
Here’s my story.
Cooking up Halloween Decorations (96 words)
While Mama slept, Casey and I decorated for Halloween.
Melt sugar, water, and corn syrup into spun sugar.
Drizzle spirals on parchment paper. Drape from the doorframe.
Spooky, delicious cobwebs.
“Don’t eat them yet!” Casey warned.
Black whip licorice and jumbo gumdrops create perfect spiders.
“Stop eating the licorice, Randy. We need eight legs for each spider.”
Hang them from the cobwebs.
Potion time!
Warm the milk.
Add chocolate.
Stir.
Taste.
More chocolate.
Stir.
Taste.
More chocolate.
“Ready?”
“Yes, drink up.”
Mama appeared in the doorway framed by spiders.
“Trick-or-Treat?”
“Treat!” We all shout.
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If you want to make your own candy web, check this out. spun sugar spider web