Stay updated with breaking news from Jackie Bayless. Get real-time updates on events, politics, business, and more. Visit us for reliable news and exclusive interviews.
A scrawny, Charlie Brown kind of Christmas tree stood lopsided in the sand. It was to the right of Aliso Creek, flowing south from the Santa Ana Mountain and then emptying into the Pacific Ocean, giving the beach its name, Aliso Beach. The tree had no ornaments, but someone had liberally tossed tinsel on it, where it rested in clumps on its branches.
It was Christmas Eve, so Jane was going to wear her red jersey dress with the jewel collar, long sleeves and slim skirt that skimmed her hips and flared at the bottom. The restaurant was decorated with tiny white lights, holly, evergreen and red bows. Candles scented the air with warm holiday aromas of cinnamon and cider. It was a chilly, blustery night, just right for a cozy dinner in front of the fireplace, the Pacific Ocean glimmering under the moon.
Third Street Writers has been awarded a $2,500 grant from the Festival of Arts Foundation for its upcoming ekphrastic writing project.
The puzzle stumps her. It’s difficult, 1,500 pieces, sitting on a polished mahogany table in the corner of the great room at this assisted living home.