There was an old wives tale – place a key on your empty page and prepare to write the most astounding story ever.
I took the old vintage metal piece from my kitchen “junk drawer”, I found it on the floor of my grandmother’s house right before they sold it in 1989. I sat it on the page and waited.
I giggled at my coffee cup, thinking back on the years I spent teaching school – a lifetime ago. The mug was gifted to me by a parent and an appropriate gift it was. A cow stamped on the side with the word “moo” typed underneath. I clearly remember the day I shared with her the words her ever so inquisitive five year old told me after a field trip to the farm. “Mrs. Fenley, a cow’s pee is milk.” I laughed until I cried, ignored the conversation and deemed it incredibly intelligent-actually.
I picked up my glasses, noticing how dirty they were. I brought them to my mouth and breathed hot air upon the lenses, fogging them up. I took my napkin and wiped in a circular motion, repeating the task until they were clean. I paused for a moment realizing I learned this technique from my own mother.
I ran my fingers across the paper as if, just maybe ink would flow from the tips creating my masterpiece for me. Instead, the texture of the paper sent me to a better place in time. I reminisced on the love letters my husband and I would leave for one another in secret places that only the two of us could find. I picked up the notebook, brought it towards my nose and inhaled, bringing back the memory of the tad bit of cologne he would dab on the paper. I desired more of the euphoria that came with such pondering. I hoped for just one more personal experience with those now passed.
I crossed my arms and laid my head down to fully indulge in what once was.
I gasped for breath as I was awakened from a unintentional and not very comfortable nap. I supposed the key idea was just a hoax. At the top of my page, I had merely written MEMOIRS.
Leesa Writes 