Scarlett Sings

Her nerves were gone. Just like that. No more anxiety; no apprehension at all. All week, her fear had been building to a fever pitch; she had been certain that tonight she would collapse like a soufflé, her insides runny and sad, the rest of her crumpled into a heap. But no. Mercifully, she was intact. Intact and unafraid.

Scarlett looked at herself in the mirror and was sure. She was ready. Everything in her life had led up to this moment; every day had been only a rehearsal for this night. She ran through a vocalise for confirmation; her voice was rich and easy. She smiled; a dazzling smile of pure joy, and opened her dressing room door. Carefully, she walked out to the wings; her cue would come soon. The orchestra swelled, and her heart rose with the sound.

She was on.

© 2009 Cynthia Newcomer Daniel

Brass filigree and chain maille, seed beads, swarovski crystals and pearls, cubic zirconia. This necklace won first place in the Use the Muse contest. Hand fabricated.

Spring Fever

Katinka stretched, opened her eyes, and knew. It was here. No doubt about it. She flung open her window and laughed; the morning air was cold, cold, cold, but spring was definitely here. She sang in the shower and danced while she did her hair and makeup. Getting dressed, she went straight for the brightest colors she owned; this was not a day where she could be content to fade into the woodwork.

Fruit! She suddenly craved some; she cut up the mango she'd bought the other day in anticipation of spring, and felt her knees go weak with its juicy sweetness. She ate ravenously, recklessly; the fragrance of its flesh filling her nostrils, and its soft, slippery pulp sliding down her throat.

Looking at her bare feet in their strappy sandals, she kicked up her heels and laughed. Spring. Finally, finally, it was here.

© 2009 Cynthia Newcomer Daniel

Hand fabricated from seed beads. The flower is based on a pattern from the April Bead and Button Magazine by Melissa Grakawsky.