It was one of those winter days that suddenly dream of spring, when the sky is blue and soft and clear, and the wind has dropped its voice and whispers instead of screaming, and the sun is out and the trees look surprised, and over everything there is the faintest, palest tint of green.

It has long been my belief that in times of great stress, such as a 4-day vacation, the thin veneer of family wears off almost at once, and we are revealed in our true personalities.

Wear your boots if you wander today

I am like a small creature swallowed whole by a monster, she thought, and the monster feels my tiny little movements inside.

I can't help it when people are frightened," says Merricat. "I always want to frighten them more.

It is only with the eyes open that a corporeal form returns, and assembles itself firmly around the hard core of sight.

You will be wondering about that sugar bowl, I imagine, is it still in use? You are wondering, has it been cleaned? You may very well ask, was it thoroughly washed?