The Woods by Leanne Dyck (short story)

Too early on Friday, June 22, I wrote this very short story for you. I hope you enjoy reading it.

The Woods

'into the woods' ldyck

Tall trees encircle me. Sunlight filters in through a canopy of leaves. Am I lost? No, I know these woods. A bird sings from a branch overhead.

A loud rustle.

Is it a bear?

I hear him growl. I see his teeth, his claws-- Only in my imagination.

There it is again. I head to the sound. 

Am I crazy? Maybe.

A fawn tangled in vines. 

I approach slowly, trying not to be perceived as a threat. 

Why is it alone? Where is its mother?

I move quickly to untangle its legs. 

The fawn is free. 

Her mother steps into the clearing and together they disappear into the safety of the woods. 

'graceful ladies' ldyck

August on this blog:  

August 5:  If you've ever wondered what my writing day is like, My Writing Desk (short story) should answer all your questions.

August 12:  I'm thrilled to introduce you to children's author Susin Nielsen. I know you'll enjoy reading her interview. 

August 19:  

Book review:  We Are All Molecules (YA) by Susin Nielsen

August 26:  Writers have little to show for a day's worth of work--no punched time clock, no dirty fingernails. This can lead to many misconceptions. Lazy Bones (short story) explores these misconceptions. 

'dreamy sky' ldyck

Sharing my author journey...

Do you like to travel? Do you want to promote your new release? Here's an idea (or three)...

Rest-Q benefit a success by Leanne Dyck

Where were you on the evening of February 14th, 2013?

If you weren't at the Ag Hall on Mayne Island then you really missed out. All who attended had a grand time.

Ty Binfet, director of Rest-Q Animal Sancturay, kicked off the evening by thanking the audience for attending and the volunteers for participating. Then he spoke to us about the animals he cared for:  the three-legged dog and the thirteen cats, to name but a few. Rest-Q provides a home for animals from near and far--for animals who come from neighbouring islands, provinces, and countries.

At the conclusion of his brief speech, Ty was given a cheque for one thousand two hundred dollars by the organizer of the fundraiser Nan Johnston.

Then to thunderous applause, Bob Connolly joined Nan on stage. 

The singing group 'Nan and Bob' is very popular on Mayne Island. The duet wrapped the room in a warm blanket of nostalgia. They sang favourites from the 40s, 50s, and 60s. Who could resist singing along? Not me.

Carol Barker joined them on stage to tinkle the ivories on her keyboard.

 Later during intermission, she played the harp while we munched delicious deserts. I tell you, Mayne Island is one classy place. Sam Israel played his classical guitar during the intermission as well.

I tried to ignore the urge as long as I could but finally succumb and leaped on the stage. I tried to entertain the audience with my rendition of "Hello, Dolly". 

Thankfully, Nan was there to stop me. She handed me a folder and told me to read not sing. So, I read two poems:  one by Elizabeth Barrett Browning and one penned by yours truly. 

You didn't know I was a poet? Well, neither did I.
When I was done, Nan and Bob once again graced the stage with their melodious tunes. Their hard work earned them a standing ovation.

So, I ask you, where will you be next year? 

Mayne animal benefit by Leanne Dyck

Happy Canada Day!

I'll be celebrating with friends and neighbours but for your reading pleasure I continue my summer project...

***

This article was published in the Islands Independent newspaper on February 2009...

Nestled in the heart of Mayne Island is Rest-Q Animal Sanctuary. The sanctuary provides a home for 130 animals. The animals that were once abandoned, neglected and abused now oink, purr, quack, snort and bark happily in their forever home.

Providing such sadly necessary care is expensive. From where does this funding come? Well, as their web site says, "Rest-Q is a registered charity entirely funded by private donations."

Nan Johnston and Bob Connolly of the singing group "Nan and Bob" wanted to help and were inspired to act. They enlisted the aide of a few friends and are planning a fund raiser. The evening of Saturday, February 14th will be full of Broadway music, poetry, and delicious desserts. All involved have donated their time. All proceeds will be donated to Rest-Q Animal Sanctuary. Tickets are $15 and they are going fast. The Ag Hall doors open at 7:30 a.m. We invite you to come, enjoy, eat and put a little love in your heart.

Rest-Q Animal Sanctuary director, Ty Binfet will be available to answer your questions and receive your donations during the event.

Visit next Monday to read about the exciting outcome of this planning.

Much thanks to Robert for taking these photos.

After this article was published Rest.Q Animal Sanctuary was moved to Galiano Island (a sister island to Mayne Island). Here you can learn more about the sanctuary, the wonderful animals they care for and how you can help.
***
Next post:  Authors should rave about other authors