I know most wouldn’t eulogize a pet, but a stranger said to us recently, “Anyone who says, ‘It’s just a dog’ has never experienced the unconditional love they bring.” And those who met her know how loving Bella was and how much we valued her as a family member, so it seems fitting to write a little something for her.

A short-short by Megan. Mrs. C sprinkled the fish flakes into the bowl. They floated down, down to the rocky bottom. Minos drifted toward the flakes, his elegant fins fluttering in the water. The schoolteacher looked up from the bowl and scanned her home. What would she need for the new school year? What was she allowed to bring? Nothing that can’t be disinfected. That’s what the principal had said. No more carpet in the classroom, no more storytime books ‘n’ beanbags, no more Holly the Horse for the kids to hug when they were scared. All those things were gone now, replaced with cold tile floors and plexiglass barricades. All to keep the virus at bay...

A peaceful world is a dull world… The elf took a sip of ale as she glanced around the tavern. Folks were far cheerier now that the war was over, but the elf knew it wouldn’t last. She had been in the business for far too long to believe wars ended after stern generals and the bloated nobility signed some papers. And she was fine with that.

My grandmother had a jungle in her backyard. Well, not really, but she had enough plant and animal life back there to make one.

A bright Imbolc to you all! For those unfamiliar with Imbolc, it’s a Pagan and ancient Celtic festival that celebrates the beginning of spring. It’s a reminder that Mother Nature is still “alive” and “stirring” beneath all the winter snow and frost. To me, the festival symbolizes hope, renewal, and new beginnings. In other words, I find Imbolc to be more like a “new year’s day” than January 1st.

Where I imagine an ethnically diverse Middle-earth.

And yes, I’m including Joffrey in that list. *SPOILER WARNING*

こんにちは！このチビ生活にはようこそ！ | Hello and welcome to This Itty-Bitty Life!