Dysfunctional Families

In this short story, a woman looks forward to the rest of her life. I awakened very slowly that spring morning, aware of a strange feeling of disorientation. Had my alarm clock malfunctioned? As I glanced at its face, registering the time at seven o’clock, I momentarily panicked. Normally, I would have been up an hour-and-a-half before, halfway to work by this time, refreshed by my shower and fortified by my two cups of coffee. I would have quickly perused the headlines in the morning paper. After thirty years of this scene, I did have it down pat. But today something seemed oddly off-kilter. ... Read Full Story

FOR READERS WHO ARE LOOKING FOR A FREEBIE...HERE'S A CONTEST FOR ONE AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF MY NOVEL "AN ACCIDENTAL LIFE," OVER ON MY "NING" SITE. CHECK HERE FOR THE RULES FOR THIS CONTEST ENDING SEPTEMBER 10: A RAINY, SNOWY DAY I ALSO HAVE ANOTHER CONTEST GOING AT ONE OF MY BLOGS, ALSO ENDING SEPTEMBER 10. THAT ONE'S FOR A COPY OF "EMBRACE THE WHIRLWIND." EMBRACE THE WHIRLWIND WITH LAUREL-RAIN SNOW FOR MORE ABOUT MY CREATIONS: LAUREL-RAIN SNOW'S CREATIONS Top Stories Read Full Story

By the time they began reviewing their book choice, thoroughly ensconced in the family room, Carly was feeling no pain. In fact, she was wondering why she hadn't noticed before how wonderfully calming lots of drinks could be in social situations. At one point, though, as if from outside her body, she heard her laughter sounding a bit too jovial, maybe even raucous. Or perhaps it was David's glance in her direction one time too often that tipped her off. She set down the wine glass abruptly and sat back. Forcing herself into a more docile mode, as if she still had some semblance ... Read Full Story

On a beautiful warm spring day in the Central Valley of California (April 19, 2009), authors converged on the small town of Hanford to celebrate their love of books and writing. Authors spoke briefly, spotlighting their own creations, including how and why they wrote their books. I was one of those authors and especially enjoyed the opportunity to commiserate with other writers – in person, for a change! – and to gather resources, while enjoying the whole networking experience. Of course, selling and signing books topped off the wonderful event. We anticipate more such celebratory moments in the future. http://www.laurelrainsnowcreations.com Top Stories Read Full Story

In an excerpt from the short story "Family Values," a download that you can purchase for .49, we view a family gathered for a traditional holiday dinner...but this family is not an ordinary family. They huddle around the table like so many crows perched on a fence, all in their own little worlds. At the head of the table and assuming his rightful role as patriarch, Father dictates the flow of the platters, gesticulating and grunting, but otherwise ignoring the assembled family members. To his left, the mother of the four adult children watches and waits, assuming her role of keeping glasses of water ... Read Full Story