My son, Runner, always finishes the race. He’s the kind of man who takes the time to achieve his goal. I like to think he’s a chip off the mom-block, but he’s his own person.
By the time he was ready to apply to college, he only wanted to visit one. He had narrowed down all the possibilities to one. Of course, teachers, coaches, and parents suggested having a few secondary options.
Nope. Runner knew what degree we wanted, the level of college sports he wanted and what region he wanted to further his education. He applied to one school, tried out for one team and graduated with his Bachelors and Masters from one University.
He finished the race.
Next came job seeking. Again, Runner held a laser focus toward the type of job he wanted with his psychology degree in industrial organization. He worked as a bartender and restaurant manager for the interim and then moved to a place called Baraboo when his girlfriend found her dream job. He didn’t give up, and yesterday he texted to tell me he got his first entry-level job with a company that will use his degree. I texted back my excitement.
Runner has been on my mind this week because of all my three children he was the one to take to the kitchen. In high school, we called him Betty Crocker because every Sunday night he’d get out my cookbook and bake — pies, cookies, quick bread. One pie he’d give to his dad with the instructions to stay out of the remaining desserts. Those were for his cross-country and track friends. While Runner always finishes the race, he also makes sure everyone on his team does, too.
He has a gifted social intelligence; a strength called “woo.”
Perhaps it was his gift of woo that also made him adept at sales when he was still just a teen. He worked as a sales rep for a Minneapolis office supply store and one day he met a customer who returned with an offer for Runner — to sell Cutco Knives. For a year, he did. The knives are gorgeous and high quality, but high priced, too. As a gift, when Runner left for college, he gave me his demo set.
Of course, they are wickedly sharp knives. After a prolific pumpkin harvest in our backyard (to the annoyance of my suburban neighbors, I grew food and pollinator plants all over our lawn and flower beds), Runner nearly cut off his thumb. The bone stopped the knife. After that, we all developed respect for the Cutco set.
Throughout wandering, a few of the Cutco Knives have traveled with me. One is an eight-inch chef knife. I’m not sure how it wrangled its way into my small box of kitchen gear. Perhaps it had been too big to plant safely in a storage box. But it is with us yet, and the Hub likes to use it to cut ham and cheese slices. I avoid the monstrous straight edge.
This past weekend, we received sad news that our cat of 15 years had died. She had gone to a new home after we had lost ours.
Both the Hub and I cried when we received the text. It was early afternoon, and I decided to cook a vegetable stir-fry. Solar Man and Radio Geek had left for Minneapolis to spend the birthday weekend with his mom. After all we’ve been through, it was a vulnerable moment. We were in the kitchen together, me prepping veggies and him slicing ham because I was cooking vegan.
The Hub dropped the knife. The Cutco Chef blade. Stainless steel, heavy duty, forever sharp. Guaranteed.
He was barefooted. The knife — as he has since described — spun a perfect pirouette and fell point-down, bouncing off his bare foot. I didn’t see it happen, so much as I realized he dropped the monstrosity of a knife, and automatically, I grabbed the roll of paper towels with one hand and shut off the gas burner with the other, and sunk to my knees.
The first glimpse was not good. The Hub’s foot split open like a ripe plum. When shock first hits, the body does not bleed. Did you know that? Maybe you didn’t want to know that, but it’s a fascinating scientific fact. No blood is a bad sign. Shock can be fatal. Bleeding out can be fatal, too. And blood arrived in a torrent. He cut a vein.
I was thirteen years old when I signed up for my initial first responder’s class. My father served as volunteer fire captain, and when the Red Cross trained the volunteers, I was one. Growing up in a remote mountain town where the nearest hospital was an hour away in good weather, I not only knew first-aid, I had ample practice. I can shut off any emotions of fear or squeamishness. It’s like going into a soundproof room — everything slows down, noise cancels, and I breathe rhythmically.
That’s what I did, kneeling with paper towels, compressing the Hub’s foot. I became hyper-aware, noting where each dog was, assessing the stove was off, planning our trip to ER. The Hub reacted the same way — his Ranger training kicked in, and without a passing word between us we knew the plan. He slid his foot toward the front door, and I crawled and compressed.
At the edge of the kitchen, I told him to stop. With one hand on the third wad of red-soaked paper towels, I reached with the other to open the junk drawer, hoping to find…packing tape! Grabbing it and a fresh wad of towels, I wrapped the Hub’s foot tight. We grabbed jackets, and I made sure he had his VA card for insurance purposes.
We discovered the Hancock Emergency Room to be a friendly and quiet place. It’s the first time I’ve ever been to an ER where they had to turn on the lights and heat because it the room with all its beds sat empty. Our nurse shared a good sense of humor, and when she asked the Hub if he felt safe at home, she glanced my way and laughed.
The Doc irrigated the wound and delivered the good news that no tendons suffered a slice. But the vein was a concern, and she sewed up the wound. The next day his toes and foot turned purple from bruising. We met with his therapist that day and had a good story for her. She is working with us to get the Hub’s knee fixed, too, recognizing that his mental health issues stem from the crisis this long-overlooked war wound causes him. She told us, “It’s about quality of life.”
I didn’t cry once, seeing all the blood, but I wept for a cat I gave up six years ago, and I sobbed at the thought that someone in the VA system gave a damn about my husband’s quality of life. It’s good to have someone who cares.
So that brings me to cake. Carrot cake, of course. Cake is my all-time favorite celebratory and comfort food. I’m celebrating Runner’s new job, the Hub’s continued care with the VA, sharp knives and sharp wit. With all of you, I’m celebrating four years of literary art we all get to share. I’m passing around the cake.
March 16, 2018, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story about carrot cake. It can be classic or unusual. Why is there cake? How does it feature in the story. Go where the prompt leads.
Respond by March 20, 2018, to be included in the compilation (published March 21). Rules are here. All writers are welcome!
***
An Unexpected Exchange (from Rock Creek) by Charli Mills
Mary McCanles set the carrot cake in the window sill to cool. Several Otoe boys hunkered beneath the window, and Sarah watched them from the shade of the horse-barn. One boy reached toward the cake. From inside the house, a man’s large hand grasped the boy’s wrist. Instead of squeals of terror, they all laughed at the one who got caught. A flour sack of carrots passed from the man’s hands to the boy’s and the Otoe ran off toward their family holdings. Sarah shook her head. Leave it to Cobb to be generous to those others feared.
###
Carrot Ranch Literary Community 
Carrot Cake
He reminded her of the strudel she used to make. He wanted to make it himself but he didn’t know how. Could she teach him?
She asked him about that girl he liked. He said her name was Shirley. “What happened to her?”
“There she is.”
“Ah! She’s grown!”
“And we have children. Look.” He pointed to two girls too old for innocence, too young to be on their own in the doorway.
“How beautiful! I don’t know if I remember how to make that carrot cake.”
“That’s alright.”
“What was that girl’s name again?”
“It’s Shirley.”
“How beautiful!”
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Sad but beautiful piece, masterfully written, Frank.
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Thank you, Nicole!
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Beautifully written Frank. Dementia is such a hard condition for the relatives as they see the identity of their loved one slip away.
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It is hard. That she saw the world as “beautiful” nonetheless I hoped offered some consolation. Thank you, Irene!
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Awwe, such a heart-breaking piece.
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Thank you!
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Sweet and subtle!
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Thank you, Liz!
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A beautiful reflection on dementia, showing the interaction between a loved one afflicted, yet still wanting to be connected. Your compassion comes through in the subtle ways you reveal the character’s cognitive state. Well done, Frank.
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Thank you, Charli!
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I’ve got to concentrate more than I have been. This paper is due tomorrow and no amount of Red Bull will substitute for the inspiration I will need to pull my grade up to pass the semester. I am out of dead grandmothers too, so this time I am on my own.
Ding. Messenger. Tonight just isn’t happening. I wish I could but, you know, the paper tomorrow. It’s going to be rough already . There’s also that large piece of cake in the fridge that’s been calling my name. All. Day. Long.
Coffee. I need Coffee.
And cake. Yes, cake too.
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Gee whiz! Your post was a well told tale that had me on the edge of my seat. Your life is quite a story. Meanwhile the ranch ticked on, you meeting all deadlines, keeping up and commenting… jeez, Boss. That’s a hard way to get cake. You deserve it and should eat it too.
Loved the image and idea of handing a would be carrot cake thief a bag of carrots. Like a diy kit, or cake in the raw.
OK. The celebrations continue. Party on.
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Ha! a DIY kit — go make your own cake, kids! I hadn’t thought of it like that but I appreciate the enhanced perspective. I’m happy you enjoyed the campfire-style post, my favorite form of story-telling and I’m always appreciative of life when it gifts such tales. I’m holding out for cake, my next literary event (my incentive to get them set up).
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yes what an interesting and varied life you have .. not a dull moment by the sounds of it! Surprised you’ve got time to bake for us all 🙂
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The Hub says he provides the entertainment for the household, and I’m always looking at life through the lens of catching stories. 😉 I enjoy the literary baking and sharing!
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which is fortunate for us, thanks!
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Oh Wowweeee! What a tale to tell!
And as for Carrot cake.. that is just my favourite ever cake!
I shall have fun writing, but I feel I might want to make some too after!
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Ha! It was a wowweee kind of owie! Mmm, I like carrot cake, too, especially the cream cheese frosting.
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Mmmmm! Carrot cake is a fave here!
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[…] fires back, with carrot cake. For their full story, made up as prompts suggest, go to their page. Carrot Ranch March 15, 2018, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story about carrot cake. It can be […]
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https://shiftnshake.wordpress.com/2018/03/16/strawberry-moon/
Strawberry Moon
Marge sat at the table poring over a seed catalog, one of the balloons a strawberry moon overhead.
“I want carrot cake, Earnest, that’s what.”
“There’s some at the store.”
“I want to make it.”
“We can buy carrots.”
“No, I wanna grow the carrots.”
“Well gee Marge, it’s gonna take a long while to get that cake.”
“Yes, well into summer.”
“Why wait so long? Why work so hard?”
“It’s to celebrate. Us. You like balloons, I like cake.”
Earnest grinned. Marge would be baking, here, come summer.
“I’ll dig the garden patch, Marge.”
“That’s what I figured.”
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I love how you’ve continued last week’s balloon story into this week’s carrot cake prompt. Marge and Ernest have love figured out. ❤ – Molly
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I’m so pleased these two found each other. Love becomes them. So pleased they found their way to the ranch too.
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I didn’t get to read all of last week… now I’ve got to go back to find the start of this vignette 😉
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You made me put them on their own page at https://shiftnshake.wordpress.com/earnest-biggs-marge-small/ .
That’d be the easiest way to get the story.
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😀
Guess I’ll have to see if you’ve added on more than I’ve read…
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Found ’em and all caught up. Gotta really like Biggs and Small.
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Ha ha ha, what a delicious love story 🙂
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D., you had me with your opening sentence — ah, seed catalogs lead to the fruition of summer dreams! I’m planning that same carrot cake, the gluten-free vegan version, but with maple-bacon crumbles in the cashew cream frosting (my version of vegan is a side of pasture-raised beef or bacon).
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here’s mine …
https://arousedblog.wordpress.com/2018/03/16/carrot-heads
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Intrigue and cake. I hope you’ll tell us more.
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lol thanks Ann, only recently started writing flash fiction and never thought of adding to my stories … if I get a second request I will oblige 🙂
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The best things often come as a sweet surprise!
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exactly 🙂
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Thanks, Kate! Something you might discover is that often stories or characters pop up in our flash fiction writing that intrigue us or beg for more story-telling. We call that “serial flash fiction” and it can be fun!
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ok well only been asked about the carrot couple so may add to them as the prompts allow, thanks 🙂
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Lots to celebrate this week, Charli! Good thing you were on hand when that knife slipped. We’ve just broken into the last of last summer’s pumpkin harvest and it’s a relief not to have to grapple as much with the challenge of getting a knife through the hardened shell. I didn’t think about it when I was writing my 99-word story earlier this morning, but the associations with pumpkin might be partly why my carrot cake story also features soup (an addendum to a post about writing priorities, IF-THEN plans and a little bit of pie):
http://annegoodwin.weebly.com/1/post/2018/03/cultivating-desired-habits-with-if-then-plans.html
PS. Enjoyed your flash but just wondering, given you’ve set it against the history of Rock Creek, is carrot cake a long-standing thing in the US? It’s relatively new in the UK (new as in the last thirty or forty years or so), so it might be an import from the US?
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I’ve just had an aha moment reading this. I read and comment on other’s blogs early in the morning. Like I’m doing right now. And I realize this shortchanges my own creativity and energy for writing. Thank you! I’ll postpone this as an ‘after I’ve written for the day’ activity! And I like your flash on carrot cake, too.
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I always write first!
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That’s an interesting question about carrot cake, Anne. I first became aware of them here about 25 – 30 years ago.
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Carrot Cake is older than we think and not invented in the US at all:
http://www.carrotmuseum.co.uk/carrotcake.html
See what you started Anne… a search for the beginnings of Carrot Cake. 🙂
Thanks for your Pie chart and ‘If, Then’ habit post.
I write everyday in the morning before reading anyone else. The rest of the day just flows after that. But being semi-retired helps.
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Fascinating! And I can imagine Charli’s already plotting some joint enterprise with the carrot museum.
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Interesting.
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World Carrot Museum! Oh, yes, we’re fated to meet up one day! Thanks for sharing this fascinating link, Jules. I have old cookbooks dated back to antebellum years with a version of carrot cake.
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Pumpkins and squashes can be intimidating to cut! I recently read about a technique that calls for baking a whole butternut or pie pumpkin and then cutting for pulp and seeds. I have one last pumpkin lurking in the kitchen and might try it for a pumpkin chili recipe.
Interesting point, Anne — I collect old recipe books which give insight into historic cooking. Carrot cake features in many of these US books (perhaps as far back as 1827 according to I source I looked up). I know that the pioneers who traveled west in wagons and homesteaded often relied on fruits and vegetables as sweeteners. You can tell where an old homestead once stood by the old apple trees that linger. Perhaps carrot cake evolved from carrot pudding, which is considered a medieval British creation. However, I did learn that following WWII there existed a glut of canned carrots and the version of carrot cake we typically know today is based on recipes developed to use up those leftover rations! Glad you asked.
Interesting IF/THEN plans you share in your post. I can see that being a useful time management technique.
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Reblogged this on The Militant Negro™.
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Thanks!
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Hello my fellow Rough Writers and those seeking the same. I may have stepped over the line with this week’s second part to last week’s Prom by Balloon, but I felt like the story was incomplete. Here is the back half: https://fictionplayground.wordpress.com/2018/03/16/she-said-yes-carrot-ranch-weekly-flash-03-15-18/ and if there is anyone in the dark, the first half resides here: https://fictionplayground.wordpress.com/2018/03/13/prom-by-balloon-carrot-ranch-weekly-flash-03-08-18/
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I think serials are quite acceptable, Joe. There’s a few of them doing the rounds of the Carrot Ranch. This is a good conclusion to your story. I was wondering where it might land.
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I don’t think there is a rule here about series… I’ve got one that I haven’t added to in a while that could turn out to be a book… anyway I think if each part makes sense on its own it doesn’t matter.
I like both of your stories and can see them alone and together. 🙂
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I try to make them stand alone just in case someone never sees the other.
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I do that too… But for some of the collections I create a page with links to the series. Some of mine have gotten a bit …um extended. 😉
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I have a page mine are collected to as well.
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I have a page for almost every separate series – kind of crowded at the top of my fiction page… so I started substituting single letters for titles.
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A great continuation of your balloon story.
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Thanks Ann, I felt like it was unfinished before this installment.
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Hi Joe! I think serials are inevitable because often a flash we write leads to a character or story we want to further explore. That’s a great spark of creativity — whenever we get curious, I’m all for following that curiosity. As a craft “best practice,” it’s good to think of each flash as its own complete component, similar to how we might think of a scene or chapter to a book. It should have enough elements to stand alone, and yet drive our readers to be curious for more, too.
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I agree and understand that Charli. I try to make them stand alone just for that reason. What if someone only reads the one. I don’t want them asking so many questions they cannot enjoy.
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I worked for an American Bank here in the UK and our counterparts across the Pond came over to visit. It was decided to hold a competition for the best carrot cake recipe, and our department took part roping in the rest of the office workers as judges.
https://pensitivity101.wordpress.com/2018/03/16/march-15-flash-fiction-challenge/
The icing was the same for everyone!
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Love that cream cheese frosting!
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Oh yeah……………………!
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Yum. I actually top my ‘loaf’ with coconut and brown sugar… but then I’m not one for following exact recipes.
Glad that the charity made out!
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Coconut and brown sugar! Oh, yes…! I might try coconut and maple syrup!
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What a fun competition, to hold, Di! And a perfect memory to turn into a flash BOTS.
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It was fun to do and everyone enjoyed it….. or should I say ‘them’. 🙂
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Multiples are even better!
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[…] Written for: https://carrotranch.com/2018/03/16/march-15-flash-fiction-challenge/ […]
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Hi Charli, my thoughts this week
https://summerstommy.com/2018/03/16/march-15-flash-fiction-challenge-carrot-cake/
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I never got the knack of making any sugar icing… I think I’d like Gran’s cake.
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Think of it as a good feed of carrots
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Thanks for your weekly reflection, Michael!
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This blog was a masterful memoir! 😮 ❤
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Oh, nooooo! I wrote memoir? Lol! I like to think of it as personal narrative. 🙂 But I’m warming to memoir. ❤
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I think you may’ve done that!
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https://fmmewritespoems.wordpress.com/2018/03/16/carrot-cake-is-the-way-to-a-mans-heart
Here’s one more for the mix.
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Carrot cake mix. 🙂
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Using what really counts…loved this!
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Welcome to the Ranch, Sarah! You can bring carrot cake anytime!
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Thank you, Charli, looking forward to more!
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My Roots
“Really…we’ve got the ingredients. Mostly its flour and carrots. Quite easy.”
“Hmm, okay, but…” and here I dig deep, “if it was me, I’d go with chocolate.”
I can see I’ve touched a culinary nerve. She also digs deep. With tongue and feet. “Plain and simple, I don’t like chocolate, or pie, or cake…any of the chocolate spinoffs.”
“But its my birthday,” I go for the jugular. “That should count for something.”
She hesitates.
Have I won this round?
“Okay,” she says, touching my lips. “A compromise. How about chocolate carrot turnip cake?”
I’m snookered.
Inevitably, love is compromise.
http://www.engleson.ca
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LOL! If I’d read yours first, I would’ve picked another topic. 🙂
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I don’t know about turnip cake!
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I’ve put turnips in stir fry and even mash potatoes… but not in cake!
That’s a new one.
Yeah everything seems to be a compromise.
But one gets used to that… 😉
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I LOVE this. I’ve been a long time advocate for the lowly turnip, such a maligned vegetable. This made me laugh and in the end – yes, love is compromise.
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So true, the sooner one understands this, the better it is for any relationship 🙂
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I’d love a piece it sounds delicious.
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Bill, I enjoyed the seductive way the compromise unfolded as well, which made turnips and chocolate seem both satisfying and humorous. And I’m with Molly, I love the maligned turnip and sneak it into many unsuspecting recipes.
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Carrot cake, eh?
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Carrot cake, eh! You can use all those carrots I leave you on Twitter! 🥕🥕🥕
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I don’t have a complete set of Cutco knife, but I have a gift set of two, steak knife size. I know how sharp they are. It was effortless to use them to slice beef. I hand washed them and put them away after each use. I slit my finger once. Afterward, I make sure the blade is not facing my fingers as I wash them.
I did have a story of dropping a knife (different one) pointing down. Fortunately, my feet escaped!
I love your story about your son’s sharp focus and determination. What a precious gift to have.
I forgot to follow you last week so I missed some of your posts. I just followed you.
Carrot cake! Humm… I’ll get into my story a bit later. Packing for my weekend trip to go from southern CA to Portland, Oregon to see my baby granddaughter.
Thank you for the prompt.
Do I submit my name every week for the publication? I’m still trying to get myself oriented to your blog!
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Best to you on your travels and your new grand baby!
Write when you can. We are a patient group.
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Thank you so much. I think I can write this one before next Tuesday. Who else are in your group? I want to make sure to follow. Would you send me all their links, please!
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Just me… I separate my work by short and longer verse and fiction. The Icon goes to the short verse site, but the Fiction site can be accessed through the title link of my second entry…which is/was To Catch a Thief?
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I think it’s a good way doing it. I have variety of posts but use one blog so far. One other blog is used for my memoir, and a few inactive blogs.
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It’s all a learning curve and what ever is easiest – Keeping things fun in our lives is what matters.
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That’s very true. I enjoy learning new things!
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Your new site doesn’t have comment section.
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Hmmm. The link to the first post entry here was/is Space
(I might have messed up that link…the first go round I’ll check it – thanks)
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Thank you, Jules!
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Welcome Miriam. The prompt comes out each week and you leave a link to your site with your story or post your story in the comments. You are welcome whenever you can make it to the Ranch. If you want to do more there are guest posts you can volunteer for. It is fun taking a wander around the ranch. You’ll be surprised at all you find.
Enjoy your journey and your new grand-daughter.
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Thank you, Irene. I do feel very welcome at the Ranch. Nothing like other challenges I have participated. I’m really curious, are there many writers co-hosting the Ranch? I was welcome by Jules also, In addition to Charli.
I’ve been touring different pages at the Ranch.
Are you done with your memoir or writing it? I started, but I got stuck at one place where I don’t particularly want to look back. At the mean time, I’ll edit what I have written first.
I have a wonderful time with my 5 1/2 months old granddaughter. This happy baby brought us so much joy!
Thank you, Irene!
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It is Charli’s site. She is the head buckeroo. If you have a look up on her sites you will see one for Rough writers. These are people who usually write and do other things around the ranch. There is also one for guest posts where any writer, reader or rough writer might volunteer to do. It is a nice place to write and be part of – and we all welcome newcomers. I have written two memoirs. The first will be published this year (I hope). Time is needed sometimes for places where you don’t want to visit. I will be talking about time and memoir next month in my memoir segment on Carrot Ranch. It comes out on a Friday I think. I get confused with time due to the time zone difference. I think I am a day ahead of most people.
Glad you had a good time with your granddaughter.
Look forward to seeing you again.
Cheers Irene
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Congratulations to your first memoir!
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Thank you.
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You’re welcome. Is it available on Amazon?
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It isn’t published yet but this year it will be and it will be available on Amazon. Don’t worry Miriam, I’ll be shouting so loud when it comes out that I probably won’t need to post about it – but of course I will.
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Are you writing it in two parts?
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I have written a second one. Both are stand alones but the second one follows the first. I had thought I would write one that precedes the first and then one that follows the second but getting that first one published and marketed is this years goal so I’ll wait and see where I go after that.
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Are they in chronological order? I’m writing one about my personal journey, then I’ll write one about the journey of me and my daughter – that was a painful one, we’ll co-author. I may write one about me and my husband – lessons we’ve learn. It’s my second marriage of 21 years. I do have many projects lined up. I also have a short stories project.
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At the moment they are but then I will go backwards although I am considering doing one that will span all of them but will focus on dancing. Where are you up to with yours? The co-authoring will be an interesting project, particularly if it is painful. I hope a bit of time has past before you start it because it sounds as though it could be traumatic for both of you. You sound like me. I have many projects lined up to – sometimes I get so excited about a new one that I neglect the ones that are close to completion. I too have a short stories project which I am hoping will be illustrated by my 11 year old nephew.
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My personal one will be in chronological order focus on 3 or 4 “theme” of my journey – music, education, “health nuts”/exercise habit, and one more are the recurring theme whether I was on top of the mountain or in the depth of the valley. I was divorced after 10 years of emotional abuse. My daughter was taken away. She was too young to understand. We were separated for 7 years, but I kept by one way message throughout. We were united when she was 18. She is 32 now. We are getting so closed emotionally because after taking her away, her dad started doing to her what he did to me. She has been in counseling and gained more understanding of what went on. We will write parallel stories. Even my friends of 30 years are wondering what happened on both me and my daughter during those years. We shard eventually, but we’ll go back in time to write as separate journals. I’ll write mine first. She’ll try to write her parallel journals. I just came up with the idea after many friends asked.
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I see what you mean by chronological now Miriam. You have done well to isolate the themes because knowing these keeps you on track and keeps out the stuff that isn’t necessary to the story. My first chapter happens further into the story and although it does follow in a chronological sequence from that point each chapter is a in itself (theme excluded) standalone so it is chronological but may take in time that is later in sequence than the point where the chapter starts which is in chronological sequence with the theme that holds the entire book together. Don’t know if that makes sense. Hope so.
The parallel stories sounds really interesting although given its subject both you and your daughter might struggle during the writing of them. Please take care of yourselves. Have you read any other memoirs done in a similar way?
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As far as my personal story, each chapter is stand alone also. I read Issac Watson’s biography of Steve Jobs (the Apple guy). He is a highly esteem author. I read his book almost in one setting, and learned a lot from his writing.
The parallel journal – I read a small book by Tiger Wood and his father, they coauthor a book and wrote parallel stories. I read it when Tiger Wood first became famous and I thought of doing something like that with my daughter. Their book was a motivational book to young people.
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I’ll look out for the Tiger Woods book. I’ve not read one that is written in parallel.
I’m looking forward to reading yours also. It is good to read memoirs when you are writing them as you learn what you like and possibly more importantly what you don’t like.
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Hopefully I can finish this year. How are you publishing yours?
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I am hoping for a publisher. Waiting to hear but the process is long.
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When I went on Amazon, one book made to the top 100, but it was previously self published. I also attended a presentation from a best seller author. She struggled for 10 years, was rejected in the first few years. She then self published almost 10 books before getting Amazon’s attention. Now Amazon pays to republish some of her books.
I’m attending classes in a university foundation for the retirees. They have writing classes for life stories, etc. and also publish the members’ books – self published but could use the name of the university press. Basically it’s the kindle book (and the POD paperback).
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I don’t think there is anything wrong with self-publishing as long as you can hook up with Amazon and put it on kindle. The hardest part of writing a book is the selling of it afterwards. With a mainstream publisher they will put it in bookshops, amazon etc and give it three months to either make it or not. They will organise for you to be as active as possible – speaking events, writers festivals, book signings etc. If after three months it doesn’t sell then that is basically the end of your book. With self publishing you have to do the footwork to get it in the shops and onto Amazon and kindle etc (although some selfpublishing sites will organise that for you). Again you have to push yourself to do the marketing. At least that is how it is in Australia. I’m not sure about the USA. If the university will publish your book that is fantastic. Most people read kindle now so it is not an issue and pay on demand is fine also.
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Okay, one step at a time. Doing the kindle on Amazon is easy. I have a Create Space account with Amazon. I also have an ISBN number for a book. I also learned to use Word to set the size of my book. When the book format is finalized, save it as pdf and it to Crate Space. (I haven’t gotten this far yet. Then you can decide whether just do kindle or kindle and paperback. Even if you want to do paperback, before you click “print,” it would be just a draft, you could order one book (print on demand), read it over, make changes.
As far as marketing and speaking engagement, I could ask one blogger what you has done. She posted some book signing events.
With myself, I could advertise in the university and my church. My church has many adult groups.
As you said, you have three months with the publisher. After that, you still have to do the marketing yourself.
I have many bloggers hooked up with reviewers to review and post the review on their blogs, or trade reviews. One blogger belongs to a review group and do ongoing review and promotion.
If I have a book right now, I have many bloggers to post the review of my book.
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the more ideas for marketing the better. One might work better for you than another. That is good that you have a lot of readers to review your book (if you had it out). I’m sure they will still be reading when you do publish.
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I used to do 2 or 3 posts a day. Now I do just a few a week and spend more time editing.
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It is the only way you can focus on your memoir. I should do the same – maybe one day I will.
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I checked out the number of your archives. One month you did almost 90 post. The most I did was 68. 🙂
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LOL Just shows I’m over productive. I don’t do that many now but I have my favourite prompts I like to post for.
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Yes, I do the same.
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It’s been good talking with you about this process. It’s a lonely process. I was so tired from editing, certain part was too much detail, and certain didn’t have enough detail.
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I’ve enjoyed talking to you also Miriam. It is a lonely process and anytime you want to run anything by me feel welcome. I know what you mean about the editing. It is not easy. In fact I think it is harder than the initial write and you get to a point where you just want it over and you can’t see anything anymore.
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Exactly! Worse than that, I was going to write a novel based on my story, but decided to go ahead with the memoir. Now I have to change from third person to first person. I’ll take on your generous offer, thank you, Irene.
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You’re welcome Miriam. I think a lot of people fictionalise their stories but I think it is important that we own them.
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Yes, my daughter wants me to leave a legacy.
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I think that is lovely and a good thing to do too.
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Yes, I write with the immediate audience in mind but also keep extended audience in mind.
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I initially started writing mine for my mothers birthday. When I decided to take it world wide the focus changed and I had to get rid of a lot of stuff that only family would be interested in.
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I did the same thing. I was going to write it for my daughter.
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To quote our fearless leader, Charli, “Happy Trails!”
And welcome to the Ranch…we have cookies here, AND plenty of carrot cake!
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Oh Liz, it sound like you have a group of fun people working together there. Now I have met 3 plus Charli. I’ll take a piece of carrot cake! Thank you!!
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They are sharp, aren’t they, Miriam! I like the Cutco steak knives. Somehow the big one made its way with us on our wandering path. I’m glad you missed your feet with a dropped knife. The Hub is no longer quick on his feet and didn’t even attempt to get out of the way. But he’s healing well enough. Thank you for your comment on my son. I’m happy for him that his focus and determination is paying off. Enjoy your trip up the coast and the time you get with your baby granddaughter!
Watch for the March 22: Flash Fiction Challenge because I’m starting a new process for how I collect the stories to publish weekly. You can continue to share here to engage with other writers, but there will be one more step for sharing to the publication, starting next week.
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Yes, the Cutco knives are sharp. I like them. You’re blesed to have a son with sharp focus. My engineer son-in-law has been with same company for 10 year and was promoted to be manager. I’m happy for him and my daughter.
Thank you, Charlie for the heads up. I’ll pay attention tothenew process.
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[…] Charli’s prompt this week: […]
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A little tongue-in-cheek entry featuring one of your Rough Riders… Geoff LePard! http://butismileanyway.com/2018/03/16/march-15-flash-fiction-carrot-cake/
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Your carrot cake cupcakes look delicious!
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Thanks Norah, they were rather scrumptious, even if I do say so myself!
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Tongue-in-cheek riding at the Ranch is a special treat, Ritu! especially if it involves Geoff Le Pard. 😉
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Anything that involves His Geoffleship is bound to be a little ‘special’ Charli!!!
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https://njoyslife.wordpress.com/2018/03/16/health-nut/
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It IS healthy, what with the veggies and raisins, and the dairy in the cream cheese! Not even mentioning the comfort factor…
Nice!
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Thanks, Liz, I’ll cut another slice!
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Nicole, some days require such a finish!
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Indeed. Good thing I also like and don’t have to cook celery!
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Raw carrots, too!
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[…] March 15: Flash Fiction Challenge […]
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And Eat it Too
“Shorty sure takes the cake.”
“Yep. Carrot cake.”
“Shorty’s a first responder! She kin really take the reins. Heck, she kin braid her own reins. That wrangler built a ranch, ran a rodeo, an’ published a book all while workin’ on her own books. An’, she sure kin cook. Is there nuthin’ Shorty cain’t do?”
“Jeez, that’s a tough one, but I already know the answer. She cain’t be anything but kind.”
“Got that right Kid, she ain’t never.”
‘Yep. That gal’s got broad shoulders and a big heart.”
“Got that right Kid. Why, Shorty’s heart’s as big as…. “
###
“Pal, ya left another sentence unfinished.”
“Yep. Readers kin submit the end of that sentence here as a reply. If they do, an undisclosed amount of money will be donated to Carrot Ranch through that fancy patron button up there in the upper left hand corner.”
“Like last week.”
“Yep. Aussie got an A fer effort fer her subtle submarine subtext.”
“It’s hard for Aussie ta be anything but decent. Don’t unnerstan’ her hangin’ out with you.”
“It’s a wonder.
“From down under. So you want folks ta finish that sentence?”
“Yep. Shorty’s heart is as big as_____________ .”
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I love these two – they just bring smiles to my face every time.
Shorty’s heart is as big as a super blue (make that turquoise) blood moon stuffed with it’s favourite carrot cake and topped with thick cream cheese frosting – packed full of goodness and sweetness and more than enough to share.
(A different sort of blue this week. :))
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Oh, I love that rich description, and turquoise to boot!
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See what you can miss when you have appointments to keep and your household appliances fail…
OK…I missed last week… so I’ll have to go all out this week:
Yep: Shorty’s heart is as big as the best grandmother’s hug that is filled with those round black and white cookies that taste great when you twist ’em and eat the frosting first – even when she tells you to sit at the table and chew with your mouth closed… you know you are loved!
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Go write with your mouth closed, Jules dear! You are loved, Jules! ❤
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Shorty’s heart is as big as all the U.S. Vets combined that came/come home with injuries of all types and say they would do it all over again for the good of the country.
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Now that brought a full sting of tears to my eyes. Thank you, Susan.
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Like Jules I was absent last week but will have to make up for it this week. Shorty’s heart is as big as Thidwicks. – (the big hearted moose.)
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Awww, Shorty likes moose, I think! Seems like a moose-loving kind of rancher.
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LOL
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the Lake Superior sky.
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That’s mighty big and mighty fine, Liz!
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Shorty’s gotta heart big enough to take in all the adventurous chickens and story-telling mice just like in the books. Shorty has a soft spot for Kid and Pal.
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I raise a slice to your adventurous life and provide a “cake” of my own:
https://strangegoingsonintheshed.wordpress.com/2018/03/16/icing-on-the-cake-march-15-flash-fiction-challenge/
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…watch your foot indeed, poor rabbit!
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The Mad Hatter and his entourage don’t mess around, poor rabbit…
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(chop chop!)
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You know which way this is going don’t you? 🙂
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well, with all those strange goings on in the shed. Yes! And we like it!
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You must come for tea and cakes with the unruly inhabitants of the Shed.
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Okay, I’m in. Anyone else from the Ranch?
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A party isn’t a party without loads of people. All I say is please don’t break the furniture.
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Sounds good! Sheds are like barns!
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Poor poor rabbit!
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It’s a dangerous world in Wonderland.
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Indeed it is.
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Cheers to that, Jan!
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You are welcome Charli.
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[…] If you want to participate, here’s the link: https://carrotranch.com/2018/03/16/march-15-flash-fiction-challenge/ […]
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Fun with cake
https://rantingalong.wordpress.com/2018/03/16/99-word-prompt-carrot-cake/
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um… yeah – I think I’m going for the chocolate… 🙂
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Thanks! 🙂
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I see your point! 😀
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I love the way you merge together two different topics — your son’s sharp focus and what happens when your focus isn’t sharp.
BTW: My hubby offered to sharpen my knives when we were first married. I said no. When your eyesight isn’t quite right, and you’re seeing 2 blades instead of one, it helps to use a slightly duller knife if you want to avoid emergency room visits. 🙂
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Probably a good offer to pass by with double vision! And I like your summary of the two topics (connected by a blade). 🙂
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My goodness, what a terrific story. I was glued. Thank you!
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Thanks, Jennie! If it weren’t for stitches, the Hub might have been glued, too!
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Ha ha! You’re welcome, Charli.
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[…] https://carrotranch.com/2018/03/16/march-15-flash-fiction-challenge/ […]
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Thanks, Lisa!
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[…] Via #CarrotRanchChallenge […]
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I went to that site about the history… but not to the museum.
Sometimes the process is what counts 😉
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All those secret ingredients for a rich cake, indeed!
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Thanks, Denise!
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[…] March 15 – Flash Fiction Challenge […]
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https://reinventionsreena.wordpress.com/2018/03/17/shifting-preferences/
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A nice alt on “we are what we eat.”
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The cultural aspect of food can’t be denied.
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Sometimes, our tastes shift. Good take o the prompt, Reena!
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They might as well 🙂 Life would get too monotonous otherwise.
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Good morning Happy Ranchers. What a post, Charli. I could feel that knife as it hit your Hubby’s foot. Ouch!
The following story could have been BOTS if I knew how to bake carrot cake but I only know how to eat it. And love it.
Let Them Eat Cake!
“You can’t give them carrot cake, ma chérie. This is France, remember?
How could she forget? Born with a supercilious culinary chauvinism, the French believed that everything they cooked was good, better, the best.
“They’ll love it.” The look in Joanna’s eyes warned him to drop the subject.
His father had looked intrigued. His mother had looked appalled. But neither had dared refuse the dark, moist, glistening slice.
Later, as the Gallic goodbyes finally ended, Joanna leaned against the door. A small, satisfied smile landed on her lips.
“Your mother just asked me for something, Jean-Paul.”
“What?”
“The recipe!”
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A great conclusion to a good story.
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Thank you, Norah!
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Good story even if it isn’t a BoTS – I’m not much of a baker – and I always doctor box mixes. 🙂
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So cute 🙂
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Thanks!
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The question all new girlfriends hope will be asked after entertaining the parents for the first time. Good story.
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Thanks, Irene!
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Juliet, this is a sweet story and a perfect ending. I love how you say it “could have been” a BOTS. Eating cake is a skill, too. 😉
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Charli, What a delicious looking carrot cake. I was out and about today and treated myself to slice, imagining I was sharing with you. I do fancy a piece of carrot cake, though I don’t often make one. I don’t often make cake for that matter, unless the family or friends are over, and then I more often make pavlova.
Congratulations to Runner on scoring a job that utilises all that he has worked towards. What an achievement. Looks like he got a full dose of his Mum’s persistence, determination, and growth mindset. I daresay his Dad must have a bit of that too.
One must be careful with knives. Especially sharp knives. I do hope Todd’s foot will heal quickly, and that he gets his knee work done soon too. I’m so pleased you are getting some support for his needs now. I can understand your shedding a tear for that – tears of relief.
And tears for your cat. So sorry. Was this Boots that we often read about?
I hope SIL is enjoying his birthday with his birth family.
It was great to read about Mary, Sarah and Cobb again. It seems so long since we’ve seen them. It’s a great tale. Those boys were probably just as happy with the bag of carrots. Maybe.
I’m also interested in Anne’s question about the history of carrot cake. Do you know?
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I stuck in a link about carrot cakes history somewhere… and there’s even a museum that another rancher linked too. But I haven’t gone there yet.
The internet is amazing.
I hadn’t heard of pavlova… I usually doctor box mixes. 🙂
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Pavlova is an Australian invention (don’t listen to the New Zealanders who say otherwise). It’s similar to meringue but not as dry. It’s basically egg whites beaten with sugar, cooked until crispy and topped with fresh cream and fruit. Delish. I’ll read your history next time I’m back at the Ranch. Thanks. 🙂
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I love pavlova! Kate helped me fix it one year for Radio Geek’s seventh birthday. She was in ballet and wanted a high tea birthday party, so Kate told me about pavlova (and she told me it was from Australia so I’m happy she had that right)! The girls loved learning that the dessert was in honor of the great ballerina, Anna Pavlova, and the meringue was meant to be her tutu.
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Hi Charli, my story this week is entitled “Can you have your carrot cake and eat it too?” I hope you enjoy this little slice. https://wp.me/p3O5Jj-16I
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That’s a much kinder description than “he’s as hard-headed as his parents” lol. I say that in jest. He’s always been a thoughtful person even as a young child and once he sets his course, he follows it. I was researching his new company and it’s going to be a great fit for him.
The Hub is healing though it’s still painful. The Doc said veins take longer to heal so he has to have the stitches in longer yet. But the bruising is clearing up and the swelling is subsiding. Thank you for sharing tears — even relief — with us.
I try not to think too much about Bootsy. I wanted to whisk her away from Elmira Pond but we had no home. She was a barn cat and would have been terrified to leave her known territory, anyhow. I think of her as perpetually prowling the pond. I also gave Sarah Shull “Boots” and will honor her that way. Our cat was Pippin. I grieved greatly, leaving her behind in Minnesota. Then we lost Grenny last year in Utah. Miss Bobo is hanging in there and likes her husky pack. I am looking forward to bird-watching. Less grief involved!
I responded to Anne, becoming curious myself. I knew I had old recipe books with carrot cake, but did not know the history. And as Jules explained, she found an interesting historical link that she shared with Anne, too.
Thanks for adding your slice!
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I think we could do a song to a Cat Steven’s tune: Hard-headed parents. 🙂 You brought all your children up to be what they wanted to be and to follow their dreams. You’ve done a great job and have much to be proud of.
Your losses last year were huge. Some can’t be replaced or repaired. I hope this year brings abundance.
Hugh also wrote about the history of carrot cake. I don’t think of things like that having a history. It’s interesting.
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[…] Carrot Ranch – Carrot Cake March 16, 2018, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story about carrot cake. It can be classic or unusual. Why is there cake? How does it feature in the story. Go where the prompt leads. […]
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Charli,
Happy Four years to you and all the Ranch Buckaroos! One can’t be a day late anymore round these parts or they’ll miss out …unless you got another pot of coffee and tea brewing or made an extra cake ;D
I just read a story about the Cherokee. I like that Cobb was generous. I’ve got a poetic haibun this week. It’s how I make my cake – and eat it too 😉
(Title is link to post – the only difference is the poem is centered and the haiku is in italics.) Oh sometimes I add brown sugar and coconut to the top instead of frosting…
Space
(a poetic haibun)
Is there space in cake for carrots
Or any vegetable like zucchini?
Is it just the shape makes a cake…
Round, Square… A loaf?
Is there a reason to hide roots,
Or that which grows in rows?
To save fingers from the sharp teeth
Of a grater… I’ve used carrots in a jar
Specifically junior baby food
That’s got some texture
No added sugar – sweetness –
Comes from the applesauce
That’s in place of water that a box mix calls
For…to add flavor along with my love
fresh baked anything
there’s always space for good food,
family and friends
©J/h
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Thank you, Jules! The teapot and coffee pot are always bubbling over the campfire and waiting to share a cuppa. I’ve read stories about how Appalachian men often played sports (games) with the Cherokee in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Cobb and his family had an easy acceptance of the Otoe which makes me wonder if they had relationships with the Cherokee back in North Carolina. But I don’t know.
Love your haibun! And your sweet sentiments added to the mix.
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[…] I had so much fun working in the restraints of 99 words from the Carrot Ranch prompts I thought I would try again. This weeks prompt is Carrot Cake. […]
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Here’s my 99-word try.
https://thecreativeptsdgal.blog/2018/03/17/truth-in-cake/
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Food and memories. A good mix. 🙂
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Thank you Jules 🙂
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Thanks for adding a cake!
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Thank you, I enjoy the challenge of only using 99 words.
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Poor Todd and poor you with the knife! Touching about when there are tears and when not.
Here’s my post:
A Reluctant Upgrade
By Paula Moyer
Jean never made carrot cake. It sounded too – next generation. No, Jean was proudly retro.
Her go-to was the Duchess Spice Cake from the Betty Crocker cookbook, the first edition of 1950. For her cake, made with buttermilk, Jean doubled the spices in the recipe. The result: dark, aromatic batter that sweetened the air as it baked.
The icing was pretty retro, too: buttercream frosting. Lots of butter.
She really couldn’t see how carrots would improve it. Why pretend it was health food?
Then: the neighbor’s party. The cute orange squiggles on top. The carrots, walnuts, raisins.
Jean surrendered.
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Ha ha ha, she never stood a chance 🙂
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LOL. She had my Mum’s attitude who also had the Betty Crocker cook book which she brought when we lived in New York in the 1950’s. She was sought after when we returned to Australia as it had some recipes not heard of here.
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He’s doing well, and I hope you are, too, Paula! I enjoyed your flash and it’s final resignation. The spice cake sounds delicious!
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CARROT CAKE
Jan dashed onto the main road.
Bullets whined through the drowsy sunshine like furious hornets.
Then silence.
He glanced back as his pursuer threw down the empty gun.
Jan raced on, instinctively turning into a side street.
He saw a bakery and stumbled into the shop, hoping for a back entrance
through which he might escape.
He leant against the counter, his heart pumping furiously.
Through eyes misted with perspiration, he saw the best looking cake ever.
White, creamy icing covered a huge round cake, bedecked with small, orange
fondant carrots.
His mouth watered for a taste of carrot cake.
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Ha ha ha, talk about timing 🙂
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LOL. Lets hope he can eat quick and keep running. Exciting story for a carrot cake prompt.
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Hi Irene, thank you.
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A sweet escape!
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Loved this!
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Thank you.
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Kim, your flash begins with an exciting thriller, and then we all shift focus onto the cake. Great writing!
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Thanks Charli, great praise.
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My take: https://abracabadra.blogspot.com/2018/03/your-pet-rules.html
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Bhukka kahiin ka!
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Your flash went to the dogs! A fun one, Ruchira!
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[…] Carrot Ranch – Carrot Cake March 16, 2018, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story about carrot cake. It can be classic or unusual. Why is there cake? How does it feature in the story. Go where the prompt leads. […]
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OK… I did a mini mash up and you can find some interesting word definitions if you go to the post at my site, the link is the title:
To Catch a Thief?
To Catch a Thief?
The horde of rabbits whored the garden and hoarded all the
carrots. It was odd that Madame Coniglio told me that all she
could see in her crystal ball was the auricle of bunny ears as
they scurried deep into their warrens.
I thought it was peculiar that she saw a bakery in my future.
Madame C didn’t charge for the first oracle session. She
handed me a double sided business card. Her side said
“I am always hare for you”… I thought it was a misspelling.
The reverse advertised Coniglio’s Confectioners.
With a photo of a carrot cake…
©JP/dh
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Ha, ha! My favorite line: “The horde of rabbits whored the garden…” I’m going to use that at some point this summer. Thanks for the fun mashup, Jules!
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[…] Carrot Ranch, Flash Fiction Challenge – March 16, 2018. Task: In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story about carrot cake. It can be classic or […]
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A question needing to be answered in my response to the challenge this week…https://bysarahwhiley.wordpress.com/2018/03/18/carrot-cake/
Thanks for another great prompt
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That’s one cute way to mix up your ‘carrots’!
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😃
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Really great!
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I’m hoping the answer was affirmative!
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How could it not be? 😉
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[…] 99 Word Fiction Challenge from Carrot Ranch. […]
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My entry this week. https://wp.me/p3R2vG-e5.
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The ultimate comfort food!
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Thanks, Patrick!
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[…] Want to participate, here is the link: https://carrotranch.com/2018/03/16/march-15-flash-fiction-challenge/ […]
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My entry for the week: https://memorycellar.wordpress.com/2018/03/18/carat-cake/
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How sweet! ❤️
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Yep, a good mixing of ‘carrots’ and romance. 🙂
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Thanks, Kay!
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[…] via March 15: Flash Fiction Challenge « Carrot Ranch Literary Community […]
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I love carrot cake unconditionally, so it was inevitable unconditional love was the focus for me this week. Here’s my take on the prompt.
https://www.shallowreflections.com/liberated-by-love-flash…/
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Not sure why your bottom link went to and ‘Oops that page can’t be found’ But I found it by going to your place…
https://www.shallowreflections.com/liberated-by-love-flash-fiction/ …
Love means; “I carrot for you”…
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Thanks for persevering, Jules. I’ve added another link that works.
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Not sure why my link didn’t work. I’ll try adding another one. https://www.shallowreflections.com/liberated-by-love-flash-fiction/
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This link works! Great flash, it’s tough to love a criminal, but that’s the mother’s job!
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Thank you, Anne. Yes, a parent’s love can be the closest thing we have to perfect love in this world.
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Wow. Rough one!
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Unconditional love! The best kind there is and I’m glad a carrot cake could bring it out, Molly.
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[…] this week’s Carrot Ranch […]
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Thanks, Geoff!
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Tradition vs tradition with a twist. Is carrot cake a carrot cake if it’s not made according to Gran’s tradtional recipe? Some family members would argue for and some will argue against. I switched our Gran’s recipe up (a bit) and like it quite fine. I even included it in my published recipe book.
Carrot Cake Debate
By Ann Edall-Robson
“It’s carrot cake.”
“No, it’s not.”
“Yes, it is. I can’t for the life of me see why you can’t accept that IT IS CARROT CAKE!”
“BECAUSE IT’S NOT! You don’t make it like my Gran did, so it can’t be carrot cake.”
“Just because I don’t spend hours grating carrots and I ice mine with cream cheese icing, doesn’t mean it’s not carrot cake.”
“Well, it’s not. She didn’t spend hours and hours making her cake.”
“Just taste mine. I think you’ll see what I mean.”
“I won’t like it.”
“You might.”
“Maybe it’s not bad, I guess.”
http://www.annedallrobson.com/99-words/carrot-cake-debate
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Ha ha ha, stubborn to the end 🙂
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There is one in every family, I am sure.
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Oh, I have heard these family debates before! Often, out west, the debate is over whether or not it’s enchiladas — flour versus corn tortillas. I’m glad to made it the final word in your book!
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https://therainyreader.wordpress.com/2018/03/18/soggy-cake/
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A unique response that truly takes the cake. ❤
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Thanks, Jack!
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[…] To participate, or read some clever, innovative, and funny stories starring the humble carrot cake, please visit: https://carrotranch.com/2018/03/16/march-15-flash-fiction-challenge/ […]
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You do live an interesting life, don’t you Charli? 🙂 Hope your hubby’s fine now, that must have been quite a scare.
OK, so here’s my entry for the week: https://jagahdilmein.wordpress.com/2018/03/19/the-break-in/
Cheers.
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Poor Goldilocks! She’d have been much better off tucking into the porridge. 🙂
PS. Your blog is still keeping me out. More harsh words needed!
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Ha ha ha. Sorry?
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You had me on this one! I thought something tragic was coming. And I suppose it was. Poor Goldilocks. I hope she has dental insurance. Haha!
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She obviously tried the wrong cake of the three, eh?
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Ha ha ha, yes.
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Poor Goldilocks. But I guess she had it coming.
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Ha ha ha. Yes, breaking and entering is a punishable crime 🙂
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I don’t always walk into the kitchen, but when I do… 😀 He’s healing up. It was about time we had some excitement after all this snow. Thanks for adding to the cake bake!
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[…] response to Charli’s prompt where she […]
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I am so happy for your son and I know that as a Mother you must be over the moon for him. Ouch for Todd. I know those sharp knives and have received a finger injury at the end of one. Having it land in your food point first doesn’t bear thinking about. Lucky that you knew what to do and good that it was a good experience in the emergency department. It just shows how important some kind words are, even if they make you cry. I’m sorry to hear about your cat as well. As you say though – there is much to celebrate and cake to be eaten. Your flash shows kindness as well. I wonder in those days which the boys would have preferred – the cake or the sack of carrots? Mine this week: https://irenewaters19.com/2018/03/19/carrot-cake-99-word-flash-fiction/
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Love this!
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Would it be weird to note that the grain cake sounds pretty good to me?
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Haha. No not weird. The measurements can be found by searching carrot cake recipes for horses.
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It’s a real thing?! Cool!!
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Thank you, I’m so delighted for my son! And the Hub is healing. Now we know we have a good ER close by. I’ve read too many accounts of hungry teens, looking for food from the settlers who displaced them only to run off empty-handed. It seems the McCanles family were concerned with the welfare of the Otoe. Mary became midwife and doctor to them, but when that occurred I do not know. It’s an interesting thread to explore. I think the boys would be happy with anything to eat.
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When you’re hungry, I agree, anything will be gratefully received. Glad to hear Todd is healing.
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https://chelseaannowens.com/2018/03/18/carrot-mistake/
There it sits, upon a plate:
It may be cake, but it’s cake I hate.
Who was first to see a root
And put it where one should mix a fruit?
Raisins do not count this time
Since they’ve barely made my list of “likes.”
If your cake needs added sweets,
Try not adding dirty veggie treats.
“I see your point,” you might say,
“But my recipe makes doubters sway.”
“I especi’lly aim to please,
“By whipping a frosting of cream cheese.”
Citing that was a mistake;
Carrots, raisins, cream cheese: baked
Are the ingredients that take my cake.
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Hey, slide a slice of that over to me, please! 😉
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You can have the WHOLE cake -minus the raisins. Babbitman wants those.
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Walnuts, too? Yummm!
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Maybe. 🙂
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The anti-ode to carrot cake! Love this stanza: “Who was first to see a root
And put it where one should mix a fruit?”
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[…] You can join in Charli’s challenge here: https://carrotranch.com/2018/03/16/march-15-flash-fiction-challenge/ […]
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A beautiful post this week, Charli. I enjoyed reading about your son. Here is my little contribution: https://robbiesinspiration.wordpress.com/2018/03/19/carrotranch-flash-fiction-challenge-carrot-cake/
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Ha, brilliant BOTS, Robbie. The same thing happens with my bread sometimes – it rises and then flops.
Sadly your blog wouldn’t take my comment – probably knows I’m not into baking!
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Anne, with all we are learning about the social media data mining, I wouldn’t be surprised if your reasoning for Robbi’s blog not taking your comment is accurate!
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Thanks, Robbie! And I enjoyed learning of your nephew’s science experiment with the prompt!
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[…] For more flash fiction stories, please visit: https://carrotranch.com/2018/03/16/march-15-flash-fiction-challenge […]
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Hi, Charli, Thank you for sharing the story about your son.
I’m having a wonderful time with my daughter, SIL, and my granddaughter!
Here’s my entry –
https://theshowerofblessings.wordpress.com/2018/03/19/march-15-flash-fiction-challenge/
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Three times the amount of carrots! Not good to meddle with a perfect balance of sugar and spice with carrots. A carrot cake should only reflect carrots through the visual effects of the lovely orange flecks, sort of like food coloring. Haha!
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Haha, make believe story. Thank you for reading and comment.
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You’re welcome!
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☺😊😀
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Children know what they want don’t they 🙂
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We just hope that they want the right thing. ❤
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We teased that our 4 year old was going on 40 and then when 14 going on 2…then when 20 became human again. Now over 30 – we think our two are doing just fine. But children love to challenge authority 😉
Having good role models helps 🙂
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That’s true. Jules. I worked in the school district as administrator. I do parenting training. If they change the authority, better to say ‘no’ when they are still little, usually before second grade. If they don’t learn to take ‘no’ for answer, it’s hard for people around them, ❤ ❤
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I worked in teaching and in retail… it is amazing how children can manipulate adults.
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Yes, they show their intelligent in young age. When one parent said ‘no,’ they would ask the other parent.
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I think in any time period the intelligence of a child rises because of what is available. It is sad to think though that there are still so many areas of poverty. There is the hope that the next generation, our own children or theirs… with learn to work in peace to solve the worlds problems and do so with respect and honor for differences while learning from ‘the pasts’ mistakes.
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Yes, that’s true. My daughter works for a non-profit and partner with businesses to help change the neighborhood. ❤
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Oh, I’m so happy you are with your daughter and granddaughter now! Enjoy that sweet time! Thanks for sharing your story!
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Thank you, Charli for listening to this proud new grandma!
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Carrot Cake
“Girl, you dare put a piece of carrot cake in front of me that’s got bugs in it?”
“Grams, you know those raisins aren’t bugs.”
“Well they look just like the weevils that got in our flour when I was a girl and I ain’t eatin’ that.
“Grams, you taught me to make that cake, pick the raisins out and try it.”
After a tentative taste Grams old face wrinkles. “This ain’t my recipe it’s got hooch in it.”
“It’s not hooch, it’s Jamaican Rum I soaked the fruit in.”
“I guess them bugs are good and dead then.”
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This was fun! I could hear Grams like she was sitting right here.
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Thanks Liz
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Almost as bad as hiding bugs in chocolate…
Drunken raisins… yum!
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Ha! Grams is cantankerous but fun. I laughed: “This ain’t my recipe it’s got hooch in it.”
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Thank you for my slice of carrot cake Charli…I need a strong cup of tea (or maybe a large G&T?) to go with it after reading your powerful and moving story. The ups and downs of life, pulling and pushing, laughing and crying, celebrating and reflecting. Huge congratulations to Runner, what a fantastic achievement and one he richly deserves (and I would say definitely a chip off his amazing mom block <3). I've never heard of 'Woo' before…going to look into that! Thank goodness your first aid training kicked in, I felt your calm as you wrote it. And what great news for Hubs having someone on his side at the VA. I've never heard of an ER that needs to put the lights and heating on…unheard of here! And you know my sad heart for your darling kitty. I know too well the awful sadness in the loss of a beloved furry family member. Need to whip up a carrot cake flash…back soon! ❤
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I think this might have been the “stay calm and drink a cup of tea” moment that led to a taste for G&Ts! Thank you for your kind support. I’ll have to share the StrengthsFinder book with you — it has Woo and other interesting personality traits that become our strengths. Yes, it was definitely strange having to “wake up” the ER. I look forward to your whipped carrots!
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Haha…I think so! Always Charli, and likewise ❤ Yes, I would love to find out more about those traits, sounds fascinating. Whipped carrots and cheese it seems! But tonight, I know I'm going to need Gin!!!!
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[…] Carrot Ranch Prompt (03/16/18): In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story about carrot cake. It can be classic or unusual. Why is there cake? How does it feature in the story. Go where the prompt leads. […]
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Here’s a little Flash that might strike a chord with U.S. folks, this time of year. Don’t delay…get started now! 😉
Time of the Season
In the sepulchral half-light, behind a fortress of tall paper stacks, the crackling tapping endures: Fast, slow, shuffle, sudden dry slap…
[Continue]
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Evidently, my sense of time is so off that when I changed the clocks, I managed to get them each off (forward and backward) by five to 10 minutes. My daughter who actually uses clocks was befuddled for several days! 😉
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[…] March 15: Flash Fiction Challenge […]
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Thanks, Rugby!
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[…] obviously now craving a bit of a writing fix. In needing some inspiration I headed over to the Carrot Ranch for this weeks 99 story word prompt. It just so happens to be carrot cake. Funnily enough this […]
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Howdy Guys and Gals. Here’s my Carrot Cake story this week –
https://swervestrikesback.wordpress.com/2018/03/19/carrot-cake/
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Howdy, TinTins! Thanks for your story!
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Thanks Charli!
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[…] 16, 2018, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story about carrot cake. It can be classic or unusual. Why is there cake? How does it feature in the story. Go where the […]
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Thanks, Rebecca!
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[…] This week at the Carrot Ranch, Charli Mills challenged writers to In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story about carrot cake. It can be classic or unusual. Why is… […]
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Here’s mine…back later to read all the others!
https://99monkeysblog.wordpress.com/2018/03/20/carrot-cake-jane-doe-flash-fiction/
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Thanks, Deborah!
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Here’s my carrot cake story for the week: You Can Blow My Candles Out! beyondtheflow.wordpress.com/2018/03/21/blow-my-candles-out-carrot-ranch-fiction/
Best wishes,
Rowena
PS I like carrot cake which has crushed pineapple in it. Yum!
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Here’s my carrot cake story for the week: You Can Blow My Candles Out! https://beyondtheflow.wordpress.com/2018/03/21/blow-my-candles-out-carrot-ranch-fiction/
Best wishes,
Rowena
PS I like carrot cake which has crushed pineapple in it. Yum!
Sorry the link didn’t come through in my previous attempt.
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No problem! Got it!
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[…] week’s prompt from Charli at the Carrot Ranch […]
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Here is my take on the topic of carrot cake.
https://gordonlepard.wordpress.com/2018/03/20/carrot-cake-or-a-bloggers-dilemma/
as you can see my take is slightly different as carrot cake is a rather modern invention.
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My understanding is that our modern carrot cake was born of leftover canned carrots from WWII. You date it back to 1903, and I had it dated in an American cookbook to 1853, another source claims George Washington ate it. A curious history indeed!
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Hi again Charli, here’s my carrot cake flash…it’s a BOTS wouldn’t you know it, ha! ❤
American Tastes
Sponge pudding and custard. Definitely. But cheesecake? No way.
‘Go on Helen, try it, it’s really nice,’ coaxed her brother.
No way. Cheese and cake…together? Whoever heard of that?
When she told her school friends the next morning about the latest awful thing her stepfather had brought home, they all agreed it sounded revolting.
Years later for her birthday, Helen’s American friends made her a carrot cake.
The laughed together as she recounted her cheesecake moment. Was she more daring now, they teased?
‘Go on Helen…’ they chorused.
Helen took a forkful and smiled. Life had never tasted better.
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Ha, ha! Such unusual pairings for cakes, but they can grow on you. I like that you used BOTS to craft your flash, Sherri!
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I made a couple of errors in this flash darn it…oh well, at least I turned up with a flash , or should I say, slice, of cake! It was a BOTS Charli, but true confessions here, I don’t like cheese cake or carrot cake!!! Or chocolate cake. Love chocolate. Just not in cake. Told you I was wierd 😉 Thanks for another great challenge that got me thinking outside the cake box lol :D<3
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For some reason when I thought of carrot cake, I thought of how Americans eat a lot sugary treats and usually not in moderation. I am guilty of this myself. So I thought about outsiders looking at some of our bad habits. So I came up with this tale of a mail order bride being disgusted by her new husband and his habits.
notyouraveragemomblogweb.wordpress.com/2018/03/20/flash-fiction-over-indulging/?preview=true
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https://notyouraveragemomblogweb.wordpress.com/2018/03/20/flash-fiction-over-indulging/
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I look forward to your thought process on the prompts, Heather. It’s interesting to explore where the ideas take us as an entry point and where the story ends up.
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I am glad you enjoy it. I always want to share the process in case someone can’t see the connection to the prompt.
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The previous one had a typo. Here is my story. https://notyouraveragemomblogweb.wordpress.com/2018/03/20/flash-fiction-over-indulging/
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Got it! Thanks!
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Grandma’s Carrot Cake this one was not home baked. Here’s the link: https://wp.me/p3H4r8-z5
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Thanks, Faith!
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Gram’s Peculiar Taste
Written by Kerry E.B. Black
Constance frowned and poked her piece of cake, leaving four tine-marks as evidence of her displeasure. Carrot cake? What kind of trick was this? Her mother didn’t disguise the vegetable’s presence. She proclaimed it in orange and green icing atop the sea of ivory.
Not like the time she served squash and pretended it was spaghetti.
Who knew what other things she slipped into meals?
“Mo-om, why can’t we have chocolate?”
Mom bustled about, polishing the silver. “Because carrot is your Gram’s favorite.”
Gram sure had peculiar taste.
At least Mom made chocolate chip scones.
Or were they current?
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Hmmm. I do believe that is how muffins with raisins got started… so the sailors couldn’t tell which were the raisins and which were the flies…
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Ha! Great final twist — there’s nothing worse than biting into what you think are chocolate chips only to discover raisins instead.
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My mom called the raisins in her bread pudding bugs–until she found my little sister catching flies on the windowsill and eating them.
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Whew! I’m sneaking in under the rail… ❤ https://colleenchesebro.com/2018/03/20/a-mother-always-knows-flash-fiction/ Hope your hubby is doing well. What a story!! ❤
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In general most foods heal… I wonder if anyone has tried chocolate chips in carrot cake?
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I’ve had it that way. I love it carrot cake with golden raisins… and walnuts. 😀 ❤
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Ranch fences are easy to scoot under, Colleen! Happy to see you here! He’s healing up. ❤
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[…] in response to the 99-word flash fiction challenge with the theme of ‘Carrot Cake‘ over at the Carrot […]
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Thanks, Hugh!
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