June 14, 1987
The day before …
Too young
Irritated by the heat
Wanting relief.
Swollen belly, huge boobs
Destroyed career
Trapped.
The Day …
Pain beyond relief
Rush of emotion
Delayed cry.
Life changed
My heart
Outside my body.
The day after …
Best job ever
Meghan’s Mommy
Sigh of relief.
I can do this
Because Love
Is always enough.
Meghan Elizabeth Ortez
June 14, 1987, 8 lbs 6 oz, 21 inches
Written for the To Live and Write in Alameda 2019 “Flash Lit February” Challenge 10. We had three days to write a poem or short story (of 500 words or less) or draw a piece of art to the theme “The Day Before” and submit.
“When you turn the wheel right, the boat goes right” he said patiently. “Think of it as driving a car.”
Spring had finally arrived. The stark branches were dotted with pink flower buds and these little signs of life gave her hope. It had been a harsh winter and her husband had been laid off, making it twice as miserable.
“X marks the spot. Well, if that isn’t cliche,” Sarah rolled her eyes at her boyfriend as she studied the map that was poorly made to look like a pirate’s treasure map.
Heather stretched languidly in bed, inhaling the aroma of fresh coffee wafting from the kitchen. She smiled, listening to her husband singing off-key to “American Pie.” He knew every word to all 20 plus verses. Up next would be a collection of Buddy Holly hits. His playlist was as predictable as Dan himself. 
The foursome were enjoying their sundowner cocktails and 
Today is a significant date. First and foremost, it is my husband’s birthday. Aaron, the Captain of my boat and my heart, was born in 1964 and is 55 today. He is the most unselfish person I have ever met, giving of his time and talent, and most of all, Love, to his friends and family. He is completely devoted to our three Grands and, with his retirement, he spends more time with them than any of the grandparents, including me! He coaches Little League, builds props for my daughter’s photography business, and shows up just to cuddle our little princess when mommy needs a break. This from a guy who never had children and became a step-father when my kids were teens! We are blessed to have him in our lives and will celebrate with the kids after he coaches a baseball game this afternoon.
“Amy! Dinnertime! C’mon home!”
She didn’t know how she was going to decide. The relationships had started due to her best friend’s push to get her on a dating website.
