As we closed out our segment last week, Andy Roberts had a vision and a visit from his father telling him to get his ass back in the fancy car and go make some music. But, he’s also leaving the cabin with a priceless bit of information about his brother, Timmy. Let’s see what he does next.
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I pulled into a truck stop not far down the road.
With a steaming cup of coffee in hand, I fished the yellowed paper out of my pocket, located a pay phone and dialed the number on the letterhead.
“It’s a great morning here at the Blackmon Children’s Home,” a cheerful voice greeted me.
After I finished explaining who I was, I heard excitement on the other end of the line. “I can’t tell you how thrilled I am that you called. We thought Timmy’s family was dead. He’s just about to turn eighteen, you know. He had an obsessive fascination with the banjo when he first came to stay with us, so we taught him to play. You should hear him. He’s nothing short of genius.”
I choked back tears and promised to be there within two hours. I told the kind lady I would be taking my brother home with me as soon as paperwork could be processed.
Just before I turned onto the highway, I rolled down the window, hung my head out and shouted, “I love you, Papa. Keep watching because I’m going to get this right!”
I thought about the fragrant blooming tree in front of the cabin and how Mama’s eyes shone the day Papa planted it. I began to write.
She is like a Mountain Laurel
A breath of pure fresh air
Her hair the scent of floral
Her eyes so bright and fair…
THE END
I do hope you’ve enjoyed this short story. It won first place in a short story contest sponsored by the Texas Associaton of Authors in 2016.
It is part of a printed and eBook, “Short Stories By Texas Authors Vol 2.”
If you’d like more information about The Texas Association of Authors visit the WEBSITE.
For more on this short story contest for 2019, click HERE
Writing and Music 
Well done, Jan. What a beautiful ending to this story. Positively jubilant. Mega hugs.
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Thank you so much, Teagan! I am happy you stopped by!
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Thank you, Staci! I appreciate you.
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What a happy and heartwarming ending. Loved it.
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This is lovely, Jan.
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Thank you, Rob!
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I feel his optimism and joy and want to shout with him! This segment left me doing a happy dance, Jan. I can’t wait to see what happens when he meets Timmy…although I sense road bumps ahead. Well done!
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Thank you, Mae. I didn’t carry the story any farther than this, so you can imagine the rest. 🙂 I appreciate you taking the journey with me and leaving such awesome comments along the way!
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Then I am definitely going with an HEA! Well done!!
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I can see why it won the short story contest. Great job!
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Thanks, Mark!
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It was terrific, Jan. I can see why a first place was awarded. Thanks for sharing.
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Thank you, John. I’m happy you took this journey with me!
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🙂
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I really enjoyed it. Thanks for posting it for everyone to enjoy.
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Thanks, Craig. I appreciate your comments along the way!
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I still say this is one your very blessed, Sister. Warmth and emotional flow from the lines. You’re so talented and I can’t wait for everyone to recognize it. Much love and big hugs! See you Friday,
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Thank you for the kind words, sister. I truly do enjoy writing stories but they all must have a message or else I have no reason to write them. For Andy Roberts, the lesson was to get his head out of his ass and think about someone other than himself. I appreciate you stopping by and leaving a comment. Can’t wait for the weekend – rain or shine!
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Oh, this was amazing! Yes, I loved it and I can see why you WON. What a talent you have, Jan. Thank you so much for sharing. ❤
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Thank you SO much, Annette. Your comment made me tear up. Seriously! Thank you for the encouragement and kind words! Hugs!
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Jan, yes I loved this. Thanks for the happy ending and I know we all can envision them together up on a stage playing and singing. What a beautiful stiry if brother mly love, courage, and sacrifice! Love you and may. You have a great week. Enjoy your visit with Linda next weekend. I know she’s super excited.
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Thank you, Tonya. I am thrilled that you enjoyed the story. And, I had to give it a happy ending. Yes, I definitely think Timmy would be on stage playing with his brother and nothing would make their father happier. I am super excited about Linda’s visit too. We are going to have such a good time. Wish you were joining us. 🙂 Stay warm!! Hugs!
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Wish I was with you both too, but I’ll be there in spirit.
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