I’ve Changed My Attitude About Summer School Work Packets, Here’s Why..

I have so many mixed mommy emotions about my kids in school. My kids attend public school in a small town. The school has consistently had high ratings in the state. Most of the teachers are either teachers I had myself or were people I grew up with that became teachers. I feel like the odd ball out though when I say I don’t look forward to back to school. See, I LOVE having my kids home for the summer. Having them home for the summer means I feel like I have more leisurely time with them. There’s no mad rushes to get off the bus, do homework, eat supper, and run out the door for a practice or school event.

I always cringe at the end of the school year posts of parents dreading summer vacation. Teachers with post saying “tag your it”. I felt like there was something wrong with me counting the days down until I can spend all day with my kids. Yes my kids can drive me crazy, yes my kids can be loud, make messes, and get into mischief. But I realize one day all of it will be gone and I’ll miss it. Now as we prepare for another school year, I’m sad that my kids will have to go back to school. Sure they don’t seem to mind. Yes it’s necessary. Yes I’ve considered homeschooling but it just doesn’t seem right for us.

More than once my kids have brought home a thick envelope filled with school worksheets, journals, and lessons the teacher felt they should do over the summer. More often than not, I tossed it to the side only to be forgotten about. My kids got bogged down with homework during the school year I’m not going to do that to them over the summer!

But, this year my daughter brought home the ole summer packet and again I considered tossing it to the side and forgetting about it. But initially, it became used strictly for unplug time. Worried about brain drain I’d have them read or do the school work packets. I found my daughter actually enjoyed doing hers.

Then as I observed her and oversaw the activity, I realized what concepts she had already become rusty with. One that we struggled with today was counting by 2’s (she just finished Kindergarten). Then I realized the value of these packets. She had a journal to keep for the summer and she couldn’t wait to write about her trip the the movies, her time at soccer camp, and the fireworks on the 4th of July.

I realized my youngest son hadn’t brought a summer packet home so I searched for a summer reading program for him that would give incentive for him to read. He’s already read 6 books this summer. Another 2 books and he gets a free book with this program. It gave him a goal, a purpose. My son honestly enjoys reading anyway but there seems to be a new motivation with the program.

We also add in our own hands on and education activities like our trip to the National Aviary, learning about local history, crafts, and more. If I’m to be honest, I think the summer school work packet has given me a new found interest in finding activities that correlate with what she need to review. I realize it gives my daughter a good start to the school year. While I still dread sending my babies away for 8 hours a day, at least I’ll know I did the best I could to make it a smooth transition.

Windber Recreation Park – Summer Staycation Series in Western PA

So far we’ve previewed the Pittsburgh Children’s Film Festival, took a visit to the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, attended Challenger Sport Soccer Camp, and we’ve been enjoying the local recreation park.

Windber Recreation park known as Windber rec or simply “the rec” has a lot to offer for a leisurely low cost day. With tons to do on any day of the week and even more to do with special events like Wings and Waves, Windber Wine in the Park, and much more.

The park offers picnic tables and charcoal grills that can be used for a spur-of-the-moment picnic. There are also plenty of pavilions that can be rented for parties, reunions, and other events. From small pavilions to the enclosed dance hall with kitchen. Pavilion rental information is here.

As far as things to keep you entertained there is a nature trail, skate park, playground, volleyball nets, basketball court, tennis courts, and a fenced dog park. Many local enjoy walking or jogging the park for exercise. There are restroom facilities throughout the park. One of the big draws in the summer is the public pool that features a twisty slide and two shot gun slides. There are also changing facilities, showers, restrooms, and a concession stand available in the swimming area. Note: you can not bring coolers larger than 14″ inches into the pool area. We like to pack a small cooler bag with a drink and light snack when we swim. They do have lifeguards on duty.

Special events like the Wings and Waves in a popular event that brings in local eateries to offer a selection of wings to try and you vote on your favorites. Each Thursday 3 new eateries offer 3 different flavors of wings each. Buy a ticket to try a dozen wings of any flavor you’d like then enjoy an evening swim.

For local residents, getting a pool pass is well worth it especially when the days get hot. If you purchase one the end of April or early May you can get it at a discount. To visit for the pool for a day it’s $6 for adults and $5 for children. We invested in a pool pass this year and it has paid off for us. We are visiting 2 to 3 days a week at least as weather permits.

You could easily make a day out of the Windber Recreation park. Walk the nature trail, let the kids play at the playground, have lunch at one of the picnic tables, then go swimming. Or maybe play some basketball or tennis.

The Windber Recreation Park is the guaranteed low budget fun in the Johnstown, PA area.

Etherya’s Earth Series Book Tour & Giveaway

The End of Hatred Etherya’s Earth Book 1 by Rebecca Hefner Genre: Paranormal Romance

These are dangerous times on Etherya’s Earth… Slayer Princess Miranda, heir to the throne, has hated the Vampyres for a thousand years. Since the Awakening, she’s fought to protect her people, choosing to be a warrior more than a royal. When a female Vampyre washes up on the shore of her compound’s riverbank, she seizes the moment to take the offensive. Sathan, King of the Vampyres, distraught at his sister’s disappearance and captivity, agrees to travel with Miranda to resect the Blade of Pestilence, also hoping to change his people’s state of endless war. Although the woman hates him due to the constant raids on her compound for the Slayers’ life-giving blood, he can’t help but admire the stubborn and strong princess. As their journey progresses, both begin to understand that they are aligned in their hatred of Crimeous, leader of the Deamons, as well as their hope for peace between the Slayers and Vampyres. Determined to fight their growing attraction, they forge a tentative truce. But old wounds run deep and trust is scarce. Their faith in each other must remain strong or all will be lost… **The Etherya’s Earth series is best read in order, so that the reader can enjoy the evolution of the characters. After all, the author loves a good twist and wants the reader to uncover them organically. However, readers of romance rest assured that each book has its own featured hero/heroine and HEA.**Only .99 cents!!**Add to Goodreads Amazon * Apple * B&N * Kobo

The Elusive Sun Etherya’s Earth Book 2

Lila, a high-born aristocrat of the Vampyre kingdom, was betrothed to Sathan, King of the Vampyres, for a thousand years. The betrothal, declared by the goddess Etherya, was deemed unbreakable. Although she cared for Sathan, and loved him as her king, secretly her heart yearned for his brother. When Sathan falls for another, Lila ends the betrothal, terrified at what her life will become now that she won’t be queen. Latimus has loved Lila since they played together on the grassy riverbank as children. Knowing that his brother was the better man, he never begrudged his betrothal to the woman he secretly loved. Now that Sathan has married another, Latimus becomes aware of Lila’s feelings. Determined to push her into the arms of a worthier man, he believes that a war-torn army commander such as he could never offer her the life she deserves. As the war against the Deamons rages, Latimus fights for his people, protecting them against the evil Dark Lord Crimeous. When Lila suffers a brutal attack, Latimus is shaken to his core. Determined to avenge her, he acknowledges the emotion that has always burned for her in his blackened heart. But Lila has moved on and as the war ensues he worries that it might be too late to claim her… Add to GoodreadsAmazon * Apple * B&N * Kobo

The Darkness Within Etherya’s Earth Book 3

Arderin, princess of the illustrious Vampyre kingdom, has always marched to the beat of her own drum. Motivated by a calling to heal others, frustration consumes her since her brother, King Sathan, doesn’t understand her desire to study medicine in the human world. Moreover, the son of the Dark Lord Crimeous has moved onto their compound and he seems obsessed with driving her absolutely insane. Hating him for his sharp tongue and dark nature, she tries to squelch her unwelcome attraction to him. Darkrip has been enthralled by Arderin since the night he knocked her unconscious and sent her down the river, prompting the end of the War of the Species. Never has he met a woman more beautiful and passionate. Frustrated by her dramatics and consumed by his desire for her, he vows to stay away. For the son of Crimeous, with his malevolent blood, could never have children or a normal life. When Crimeous threatens both their lives, forcing them into a shared captivity, they do everything they can to escape and survive. As their connection grows, so does their attraction. Knowing they have no future together, and the consequences of furthering their relationship would be disastrous, they forge ahead in the conflict against the Dark Lord. But the Universe is fickle and can muddle with even the best laid intentions… Add to Goodreads Amazon * Apple * B&N * Kobo

The Reluctant Savior Etherya’s Earth Book 4

Evie, daughter of virtuous Princess Rina and malicious Deamon King Crimeous, is a woman torn in half. The first centuries of her life taught her fervent lessons about pain and suffering. For ages, she suppressed her mother’s noble blood, crafting a reality where she was drifting alone, needing no one. Until an ancient prophecy calls to her, possibly creating a purpose for her squalid existence. Kenden has commanded the Slayer army for a thousand years. Strong, cunning and loyal, he longs for the day when Crimeous has been defeated and he can settle down to build a family. Focused on conquering the Dark Lord, he is stunned when Evie makes a brazen demand that must be fulfilled before she chooses to fight with them. Although incensed by Evie’s ultimatum, Kenden has never desired a woman more than the flame-haired vixen. Though she stirs his ire, he also has a deep well of compassion for the beauty who suffered so much trauma centuries ago. Together they train and by night their connection grows, building toward the moment when they will battle her father. But, in the end, Evie has a choice and struggles to espouse righteousness over malevolence. For when one’s worst fears are exposed, the evil is so much easier to embrace… Add to Goodreads Amazon * B&N * Kobo

Rebecca Hefner grew up in Western NC and now calls the Hudson River of NYC home. In her youth she would sneak into her mother’s bedroom and raid the bookshelf, falling in love with the stories of Judith McNaught, Sandra Brown and Nora Roberts. Years later that love of a good romance, with lots of great characters and conflicts, has extended to her other favorite authors such as JR Ward and Lisa Kleypas. Also a huge Game of Thrones and Star Wars fan, she loves an epic fantasy and a surprise twist (Luke, he IS your father). One day, over a decade ago, she began writing her own stories and recently mustered the courage to leave her corporate medical device sales job and become a full-time author. Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

Early the next evening, they were set to depart, and Lila gave Yemik a warm embrace. Latimus watched her from
the train. She’d been cold to him during the hour that led up to the departure. Maybe she’d finally realized that he
would never allow himself to be with her in the way that she needed. Feeling extra grumpy, he scowled at her as she
entered the train.
“I’m going to sit in the next car with the soldiers while we ride to Lynia,” she said, her chin held high. By the
goddess, she was so regal.
“Fine,” he said, clenching his jaw as she breezed past him.
Minutes passed as he fidgeted on his tablet, missing her smell. She always seemed to use some flowery shampoo
on her long hair, and it drove him wild. Finally, they arrived at Lynia, and she bounded from the train to meet the
compound’s governor, Breken.
After they embraced, she greeted the female reporter and cameraman, and Breken walked them from the platform
up to the surface.
“As you know, we’re not as formal here as the other compounds. Our main house only has six rooms and,
unfortunately, we can’t house you there. We’ve arranged for you both to stay in one of the cabins out by the wall. It’s
only a ten-minute walk from the town square, and we’ve installed a phone in each cottage that can contact the main
house’s servants at any time.”
“That’s perfectly fine,” Lila said, smiling up at him. “We appreciate your hospitality.”
The next several hours were consumed with her diplomatic activities at the main square until dawn was fast
approaching.
They exchanged pleasantries with the townspeople and bid good night to Breken. Hopping in a four-wheeler, one
of Latimus’ Lynia-based Vampyre soldiers drove them to the cabins. The soldier deposited Lila’s massive bag into her
cabin, and she disappeared inside.
Settling into his own cottage, Latimus realized that he had finally succeeded in pushing her away. The thought
should’ve been comforting. Instead, he felt empty. After prepping for bed, he lay on the king-sized bed, reminding
himself that he lived in a world of his own making. He was doing what was best for her.
During their time at Lynia, the hours had bled into each other as he guarded her, always in the shadows. She
dazzled the men and women of the compound with her glowing smile and kind disposition. He longed for the trip to
end, so he could forget the sway of her hips as she walked and the glistening of her fangs as she’d spoken to him in the
moonlight at Naria. She’d been so cold and aloof with him since they left Naria, it unsettled something in him.
As he stood outside his cottage during their last night at Lynia, he heard the door of her nearby cabin close.
Straining, he heard Lila talking on the phone.
“Thank you, Sathan. I think it’s what’s best for me right now. Although I miss everyone at Astaria terribly, I just
need some space.”
There was a pause, and then, “Absolutely. I’ll let him know. I will. Talk soon.”
Moments later, the click of her cabin door sounded, and he felt his eyebrows draw together. What was she
discussing with his brother?
Restless, he entered his cabin to pour some Slayer blood into the metal goblet that sat on the little table beside his
bed. Soft knocks sounded on his door, and he opened it, knowing he’d find her.
He was only wearing a pair of sweatpants and watched her eyes dart over his naked chest. Lifting her gaze, she
said, “I need to speak to you.”
Opening the door wider, he let her breeze past him.
“I’m not going to back to Astaria. At least, not tonight. I’ve already spoken with Sathan, and he’s approved my
stay here. I need a few weeks to clear my head after the trip. He asked that you leave two Slayer soldiers behind to
guard me.”
Latimus slowly sipped from his goblet, processing her words. “It’s not safe for a lone female to stay behind in an
unprotected cottage on our smallest compound.”
“As I said, two soldiers will be stationed outside my cabin at all times. I’ll be perfectly safe.”
“I don’t like it. Crimeous has many spies. I don’t want you left vulnerable.”
Her perfect nostrils flared, and twin splotches of anger appeared on her cheeks. “Well, it’s not your choice. I’ve
already spoken to Sathan. You and the other two Slayer soldiers are set to depart in three hours. I’m exhausted, so I’m
heading to bed early. I just wanted you to know I wouldn’t be with you.”

She walked past him toward the door, and he grabbed her arm. “Lila—”
“Don’t touch me,” she said, shaking off his grip. Fury swam in her gorgeous eyes. “You’ve made it abundantly
clear that you want nothing more than to be free of my company. Well, here’s your chance. Safe travels home.”
Stalking toward the door, she shut it behind her.
Latimus looked to the ceiling, praying for patience, irritated by her regal haughtiness. Lifting his phone from the
table beside his bed, he called his brother.
“Latimus. I trust Lila told you of her plan?”
“It’s not wise to leave her here alone, Sathan. She’ll be exposed. Especially as an aristocrat on a laborers’
compound.”
“I want you to leave two of the Slayer soldiers with her. They’ll be able to protect her.”
Latimus pinched the bridge of his nose with his thumb and index finger, annoyed. “I don’t like it.”
“Sorry to hear that, but it’s her choice. I’ll see you when you arrive at dawn. Arderin is excited to see you.”
Sighing, he shook his head at his brother’s stubbornness. “Fine. See you in a few hours.”
Restless, he packed his things and cleaned the various weapons he’d brought with him. An hour before dawn, he
knocked on Lila’s cabin door. After a minute, she opened it, her eyes swollen with sleep. By the goddess, she was
breathtaking, even upon waking up. How was that possible?
He pushed inside and lay several weapons on the wooden table that sat by the door. “This is a Glock, this is an AR-
15 and this is a TEC,” he said, pointing to the various objects. “I’m going to show you how to use them and leave them
here with you.”
“Latimus—”
“I need some additional peace of mind that you’ll have protection. Don’t fight me on this.”
“Okay,” she said, her throat bobbing up and down as she swallowed. Her thin arms were crossed over her silky
white robe, thrusting her voluptuous breasts toward him. Reminding himself of his purpose, he set about showing her
how to use the weapons.
Fifteen minutes later, it was time for him to depart for the train. He’d already informed the two Slayer soldiers that
they were to stay outside her cabin and guard her at all times. Looking down at her, he was enveloped by a wave of
sadness. Unable to lie to himself, he realized that he would miss her terribly.
“Be safe,” he said.
“I will.”
Left with no more words to say, he pivoted and stalked from her cabin. He and the two Slayer soldiers rode the
four-wheeler to the platform and departed for Astaria. Sitting on the train, he rubbed his hand over his chest, cursing
his heart. If he didn’t know better, he would think it was broken.

Follow the tour HERE for exclusive excerpts, guest posts and a giveaway! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Legend of Song de Light Audiobook Book Tour & Giveaway

a duet in an all-time signature by Kaitlynzq midnight’s pink undercurrent sunrise’s hum lovecontu continuous dream in-real time tru’adreyam ocean in the sky sky within the ocean In the series Lovecontu Song de Light Lovecontu A series that interweaves interior elements from the stories together like gentle hugs to one’s heart from Ancient Script ofLovecontu audio poem, a vocal surround of unique instrumental notes from Legend of Song de Light audio book, layers of quiet a cappella from inside of Legend of Song de Light audio play, to petal soft pink glows that hum throughout the hours held within Lovecontu Song de Light Lovecontu audio set. The following links will guide you to the vocal recording for an extended and expanded upon scene of moments that subtly touch inside of Legend of Song de Light audio book, and Legend of Song de Light audio play, and are composed in the notes of lovecontu tru’adreyam. For the audio version on my audio streams: And, for the audio streams and text version on my blog: https://kaitlynzq.com/blog/extended-amp-expanded-upon-scenes-three-for-legend-of-song-de-light

Legend of Song de Light audio book is included in the series of interconnected stories Lovecontu Song de Light Lovecontu . A series of interior connections of lovecontu with feather light whispers of love, sonic palettes of radiant-ambient colors, and songs from within of continuance. Reviews for Legend of Song de Light audio book “…the author creates this book of intimate passions, you have what will soon become one of your favorite audio books. The author effectively draws you into each character’s scene and sets them (the characters) up individually and as a unit. You are allowed to discover their personalities and passions. I found myself envisioning each room, each touch and each emotion the author pulled out of her characters…” by Kay with KayBee’s Bookshelf https://www.kaybeesbookshelf.com “…This stunningly original composition is heartbreaking yet uplifting and not to be missed…” by Lynda with Books Direct https://www.booksdirectonline.com “Kaitlynzq puts together a magnificent “song” with her words of Legend of Song de Light…The music in the background was chosen perfectly as it almost danced around her words…” by Amy with Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews http://writeramyshannon.wixsite.com/bookshelfreviews “Wonderful imagery and compelling tales!…Kaitlynzq’s storytelling technique in Legend of Song de Light is quite unique. …There is an artistic take on fiction, heightened by the effects of poetry, photography and ballet expressed in each tale…” by Marie with Writing in the Modern Age http://marielavender.blogspot.com “Excellent book I really loved it.” by Nancy

Information for the audio book: Recorded in Kaitlynzq’s voice with a blend of music like a heart’s wave into downloadable mp3 files. Add to Goodreads Available for purchase HERE! Vocal Synopsis HERE

My fictional stories are written from the inside view of a character’s interior heart-that beautiful, vulnerable, intimate space feelings, desires, needs, dreams a blend of delicate feather ripples of heart waves needs, feelings, dreams, desires quiet, gentle heart strings tender, continuous soft, vulnerable air mist circles, weaves to caress a sonic sea of heart’s breath Woven into audio books that are recorded in my voice with a medley of music as a heart’s wave into downloadable mp3 files; audio plays adapted from the audio books, and layered into pdf files like a heart’s song; audio poems that are multiple poems designed to connect to form a story as a heart’s breath; and audio sets that are sets of these interconnected stories with elements from each story that interweave in one another as heart’s wave, heart’s song, heart’s breath. Website * Goodreads * Audio Streams * Newsletter Follow the tour HERE !

Lizzie Borden Book Tour & Giveaway

Lizzie Borden by Elizabeth Engstrom Genre: Historical Mystery, Thriller

Did she do it? A hundred years ago, it was the Trial of the Century. A young woman stood accused of brutally murdering her father and stepmother in a crime so heinous that it became a benchmark in human tragedy. A hundred years later, the Lizzie Borden case still resounds in the imagination. There are those who staunchly defend Lizzie’s innocence while others vehemently declare that she did it, and that the murder was justified. In Elizabeth Engstrom’s brilliant novel, the dark psychology of the Borden household is laid bare. Lizzie, her sister Emma and their parents Andrew and Abby Borden, are sharply illuminated—as are the paranoia and concealed hatred that secretly ruled the family. Domestic violence and dysfunctional families are not inventions of modern times. “Every door in the Borden house is metaphorically locked, and each room holds the terrible secrets of its occupant…Engstrom skillfully and subtly builds a psychological plot, moving the reader inexorably toward the anticipated savage denouement.” —Publishers Weekly Goodreads * Amazon

Elizabeth (Liz) Engstrom grew up in Park Ridge, Illinois (a Chicago suburb where she lived with her father) and Kaysville, Utah (north of Salt Lake City, where she lived with her mother). After graduating from high school in Illinois, she ventured west in a serious search for acceptable weather, eventually settling in Honolulu. She attended college and worked as an advertising copywriter. After eight years on Oahu, she moved to Maui, found a business partner and opened an advertising agency. One husband, two children and five years later, she sold the agency to her partner and had enough seed money to try her hand at full time fiction writing, her lifelong dream. With the help of her mentor, science fiction great Theodore Sturgeon, When Darkness Loves Us was published. Engstrom moved to Eugene, Oregon in 1986, where she lives with her husband Al Cratty, the legendary muskie fisherman, and their Duck Tolling Retriever, Jook. Liz holds a BA in English Literature and Creative Writing and a Master of Arts in Applied Theology, both from Marylhurst University. A recluse at heart, she still emerges into public occasionally to speak at a writers conference, or to teach a class on various aspects of writing the novel, essay, article or short story. An avid knitter and gardener, she is on faculty at the University of Phoenix and is always working on the next book. Website * Blog * Facebook * Twitter * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

Kathryn answered the door dressed in a stunning wine colored gown, trimmed in black
lace. A white cameo gleamed at her throat, her hair was done up with a twist and it shone in the
gaslight. She even had a touch of lipstick on, Lizzie noticed, and some rouge.
Lizzie hugged her hostess, and the first feeling of inadequacy of the evening came over
her. If there was one thing about Kathryn that truly intimidated Lizzie, it was Kathryn’s
diminutive stature. Tiny, she was, almost like a fairy. Lizzie felt like a moose next to her.
Kathryn kissed her lightly on the lips, then chattered away gaily as she took Lizzie’s cape and
hat, and the two women went into Kathryn’s correctly appointed sitting room. Lizzie glanced
into the dining room on her way past, and saw the table set for two. Wonderful. An intimate
evening.
They shared a cup of tea and talked first about the good work the WCTU was
accomplishing, then gossiped politely about some of the members. Lizzie became more and
more relaxed. When Kathryn left the room to check on the progress of dinner, Lizzie had the
profound realization that Kathryn had invited her to her home for no other reason than she
enjoyed Lizzie’s company. There was no committee work to be done, there was not a dinner
party with an odd number of guests, there was no other reason. Kathryn had invited Lizzie
because she wanted to share a dinner with her.
Lizzie blushed in spite of herself and sipped her tea.
Kathryn returned and they talked of art, a subject Lizzie knew as little about as Kathryn
was well-versed. They talked Fall River politics for a moment, then general Fall River news and
personalities, and then it was time for dinner.
Kathryn had roasted two squabs and served them with an orange sauce, small freshly-dug
carrots that she’d overwintered right in the ground, and a portion of goat cheese that she’d
purchased last Saturday at the market. This spawned a discussion of cooking, another thing in
which Kathryn was accomplished and Lizzie not.
But the holes in Lizzie’s training did not confuse her this night with holes in her
personality. Kathryn’s life had taken different directions, and had led her down different paths.
Lizzie did not feel more or less fortunate (except in looks and body) for once. She just felt
different, and for the first time, instead of dwelling on her own insufficiencies, she reveled in
Kathryn’s accomplishments and queried enthusiastically about her life.
After dinner (Lizzie ate her entire bird down to the bones; Kathryn barely ate a half
breast), Kathryn gave Lizzie a thorough tour of her kitchen, and then her artworks, which spread
about the house. Lizzie had long admired the art which hung on Kathryn’s walls, but as she’d
only been at the house during a meeting, she’d never had opportunity to view each one in its
glory. Each painting, sketching and drawing had a little story about where it came from, the
artist, and how and where Kathryn had acquired it. Lizzie was totally charmed with this little
tiny, beautiful woman and her enthusiasm.
Eventually, the tour landed them back in the sitting room, where Kathryn sat on the settee
next to Lizzie.
They talked about Europe, and compared notes on what they had seen in common, and as
Kathryn poured a fresh cup of tea, her hand touched Lizzie’s, and it stayed there.
Lizzie was surprised at how warm it was, how soft and warm, and without thinking, she took
Kathryn’s tiny hand in both of hers. Emma’s hands were harsh and bony, Abby’s hands were fat
and bloated, Father’s hands were horny and hairy. This little perfectly manicured hand was warm

and gentle. Tender. Lizzie turned it over to look at the palm, ran a finger down the center of it,
and when she looked up, Kathryn had a most peculiar look in her eyes.
T he expression on Kathryn’s face reminded Lizzie of days long ago when she would sit in
the window seat at the farm and look out the window, dreaming of things to be when she finally
became an adult. She longed to be a housewife with a dozen children. She longed to have a
protector, a provider, one she could kiss and hug, one she could sleep next to on a cold night. She
longed to make her own decisions and not be driven instead by a ruthless older sister, she longed.

. .

That was the expression in Kathryn’s eyes. Longing.
Lizzie flushed and looked again at the tiny hand she held in her own.
“Lizzie?” Kathryn spoke so softly, that even in the silent room, Lizzie was not sure that
she had heard. She was suddenly shy, and almost afraid. Her heart pounded louder than
Kathryn’s tiny word. Eventually, she looked up into that beautiful face, and Kathryn’s lips were
gently parted, and she moved closer and closer, until Lizzie could smell her hair as well as see
right through it, and she could smell the closeness of Kathryn, freshly bathed and powdered. She
could smell Kathryn’s breath, warm, scented with tea and cinnamon, and then Kathryn’s lips
were on her own, soft, so soft.
T hen she was gone, and Lizzie found her eyes closed, so she opened them, and saw
Kathryn, who was flushed and laughing, both of them embarrassed, and the small hand slid out
from between Lizzie’s and helped the other hand hold the trembling teacup.

Abby settled back into her bed, the fear of the dark shadows gone, the anger at Andrew
gone, the worry over Lizzie having another headache gone. All that was left was that creeping
feeling of doom.
It had been intensifying lately, that feeling. That terrible feeling that something was about
to happen. The present status could not remain so for very much longer; everyone seemed to be
strung just a little bit too tight. And when people are just a little too close, just a little too
crowded, well, things begin to happen.
Like jewelry and money disappearing and reappearing in the barn.
A shiver ran through Abby. It was such a violation, that little robbery. It was such a slap
in the face by some member of this household. That was a day she almost gave the ultimatum to
Andrew: We move or they move. But the tensions had eased some after that, and of course, there
had been no repeating offenses, nor had Abby any reason to think there would be. The point,
whatever it was, had apparently been made.
The thought of the robbery was inseparable from this feeling of dread that she had, this
moving black shadow that was just a little darker than the dark, when nothing was there. The
robbery was an omen, she thought, of ominous things to come, and if she were a real wife, and a
real mother, she would insist that Andrew take her out of this house and save them all from
themselves.
But she was not a real wife, and Andrew knew that, and she was not a real mother, and
both Emma and Lizzie knew that.
So she would make do, as she always had, spending her time with Sarah and her many
troubles, and the occasional birthing that came along in her little circle of acquaintances, and she

would hope that when the end came, whatever it may be, that it be swift and sure, silent and
without warning.

Abby whirled around, but there was no one there. She could have sworn that she heard someone
behind her.
She shook the pillow down into the case, plumped it up right—not the way that silly
Bridget did it—and laid it nicely on the bed.
She smoothed it down, stood up and listened.
Bridget had answered the knock at the door, and Abby had waited for the call. She was
expecting to be called a second time to the birthing, but had decided not to go. Mr. Borden would
definitely not approve.
She went back to the task at hand, smoothing the pillow.
She whirled. There it was again, a presence. This time, though, she almost heard
breathing. But there was nothing there. Nothing.
The hair prickled at the back of her neck and stood up along her arms. She rubbed it
down, and walked around the foot of the bed.

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