The Bag Lady

https://mymindmappings.com/

I don’t think I like this chapter

The pages I try to read

The words come too fast

Stop this turning, I plead

But they keep rolling

The story’s on repeat

I try to stop it, digging in my feet

It has my jacket

Pulling at the seams

The book is out of control

Tearing at the dreams

Women, men and children

Falling left and right

Even in a novel, a terrible sight

I close the ugly tome

Put it back on the shelf

I need a fairytale

To remind myself

There is a dream, even a fantasy

That will come true in the end

Until the chapters are rewritten

No reading time I’ll spend.

***

The Friday Reminder and Prompt for #SoCS Feb. 7, 2026

Relaxing is hard for me these days of such turmoil. I do think having this blog with prompts especially, puts my mind off it all temporarily.

Of course! We all need them!

I am looking forward to a visit from my granddaughter ❤️

***

Get to Know You #76!

I don’t want to go, Sara pleaded pulling at her father’s coattails.

She’s your Grandmother, Sara, and we’re all going to spend Christmas with her, have a nice dinner, and don’t forget the presents!

Santa won’t find me here and my stocking is the only present I want!

Don’t worry! Santa is magic and knows where you are.

Sara was adamant as she refused to take off her coat, sitting in grandmother’s living room. Then she noticed her stocking hanging up next to her brother’s. Also a tray of cookies waiting for Santa. Sara softened and smiled at her grandmother.

***

6 February 2026

The photograph was a classic. Madeline fingered the money she received from winning the contest. Always having been the underdog in such exalted company, she practically swooned when they called her name. The hexagon shaped crystal award would decorate her mantle. It was the first of many she would receive as she published photos for the “Saturday Evening Post”. Madeline treated herself with a watermelon lollipop.

***

Can You Tell A Story In…

Winter fading here 

Snow piles dwindling

Temperatures warming

–

Sunshine not so shy

Gray clouds drifting away

Winter fading here

–

Icicles melting

Their cold drops catch you

Snow piles dwindling

–

Dare I see a green bud

Trees preparing for spring

Temperatures warming

***

MTB: Revisiting Cascade Poems

https://rugby843.blog

whispering restrained

there is no susurrus here

overpowering

words boisterous no longer

frightened pursed lips quieted

–

whistles blow

susurrus silenced

punished voice

***

Reena’s Xploration Challenge #416

World Cancer Day reminds us that the disease is more present than ever. All of us can be active in preventing this disease – though sometimes it comes despite our best efforts. There are better ways to unite than in a shared disease! I survived bladder cancer I had 11 years ago. Here are the symptoms:

The most common symptom of bladder cancer is blood in the urine (hematuria), which may appear pink, red, or rust-colored, or be detected only via microscope. Other frequent signs include increased frequency, urgency, or burning during urination. These symptoms often mimic infections, so they should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. 

Key Symptoms of Bladder Cancer

• Hematuria (Blood in Urine): The most common sign, often painless and intermittent.
• Urinary Changes: Increased frequency, urgent need to urinate, or a feeling of needing to urinate immediately even when the bladder is not full.
• Painful Urination: Burning or pain during urination.
• Voiding Difficulties: A weak or interrupted urine stream.
• Pain: Pelvic, lower back, or abdominal pain. 

Advanced Stage Symptoms
If the cancer has spread, other symptoms might appear: 

• Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite.
• Pain in the lower back, pelvis, or bones.
• Swelling in the feet or legs.
• Ongoing fatigue. 

When to See a Doctor
Any blood in the urine should be checked, as it is not normal. While these symptoms can be caused by other, non-cancerous conditions like infections, stones, or an enlarged prostate, it is important to rule out cancer. 

***

https://rugby843.blog

The lady opened the box and retrieved a ruby hued dress hand sewn by her maid, Jesse. Amanda found the ball gown in perfect shape, but she heard trouble brewing in the banquet hall. Apparently the band had no drummer and in this instance, no music would be played. Things were collapsing around her but she tried to feel confident in her red dress. Two butlers came to her side and one said he had experience with a drum and if she desired, he could fill in the band’s group. Problem solved Amanda thought, but now she had to check on the food. She was thankful to find everything in order on that front. Amanda sighed with relief and signaled the band to start to play.

***

MLMM Monday Wordle #462