Sunday, November 30, 2008

A Winters Tale




The air was so cold that every breath was painful. It was as cold as a winter’s night could be. I walked down the twisting lane heeding every step less I should slip on the frost beneath my feet. Either side the grass on the banks stood rigid, white, frozen. Barren hedgerows glistened silver in the moonlight, and distant trees wove a border of black lace below a grey winter sky.


I trudged into the village. Six disgruntled ducks stood motionless on the frozen pond unable to reach the water beneath a surface of leaden ice. All was quiet but for the dull sound of my footsteps. Suddenly a bird flapped noisily into the air. I saw the shadow of a man, head bowed, deep in thought. It was mine.


As I turned the corner a golden glow filled the street before me. Quietly at first, then more loudly the sound of merriment and laughter filled the air. I had arrived. I pushed open the heavy oak door at once my spirits rose amid the sounds smells and warmth of the ancient inn.


“Mine's a brandy landlord, and make it a large one!”



19 comments:

  1. Very picturesque story with a nice ending.

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  2. Nothing better than a warming up drink on a cold day. Great piece. I loved to drink gluhwine walking over the market on a cold winterday

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  3. nice ending! makes me crave a hot spicy mug! xo

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  4. Nice! I could feel the cold in my bones!

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  5. you have great images in your words.

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  6. Hmmm, I shall say nought mate. Just sit here and smile!

    Cheers!

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  7. Ah, such a welcoming ending! I like your descriptions!

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  8. I especially love the six disgruntled ducks...great story!

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  9. Put dark rum in my mug! Lovey winter scene!

    Hugs Giggles

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  10. Very nicely done Keith I love it.

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  11. I love the image of "disgruntled ducks"!

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  12. Sounds like the perfect antidote to a cold winter walk. I love the sound of your feet in the snow.

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  13. Very vivid. Beautifully written!

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  14. Hi!
    Great story! Thanks for sharing. Thanks for stopping by my place. Take Care!!

    Sherrie

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  15. all that and a drink at the end too!! and the ducks, brilliant :)

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  16. My fingers were frozen by the end. Great visuals!

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  17. what a vivid tale.. loved it!!

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  18. I was right there, freezing along with you and the disgruntled ducks.

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