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As always, please be considerate of your fellow Fictioneers and keep your stories to 100 words. (Title is not included in the word count.) Many thanks.
The next photo is the PROMPT. Remember, all photos are property of the photographer, donated for use in Friday Fictioneers only. They shouldn’t be used for any other purpose without express permission. It is proper etiquette to give the contributor credit.
Copyright –Douglas M. MacIlroy
The holiday season is upon us and I find myself to be busier than a one-armed paper hanger. Between the mandatory gifting, my husband’s birthday the 15th, book signings/art shows, and working on a new novel that’s taking up quite a bit of head-space, I’ve taken the liberty to craft this dreadful run-on sentence and also to post some reruns this month. The photo and story are from December 14, 2012 Some may remember it. For those of you who wrote a story for this prompt, feel free to post a rerun. The photographer of this prompt has been MIA for a while, but I assure you, our disc flinger is alive, well, and happy.
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Word Count: 100
UNHOLY BONDS
Somewhere between “I do” and diapers Gavin’s winsome bride turned into a nattering, self-centered shrew. Everything he said or did she took as either an affront or lack of caring.
If he brought her flowers she accused him of seeing another woman. If he made overtures she accused him of treating her like a sex object.
Eventually he gave up trying to fix their relationship and escaped to his garage sanctuary.
One afternoon Lois stood over him, packed suitcase and their three-year-old son in tow. “I’m leaving.”
“Pick up a quart of milk.”
“For good.”
He smiled. Peace at last!
Rochelle Wisoff-Fields-Addicted to Purple 
Makes me wonder what happened to Lois to make her that way. I think Gavin should throw a party. Nicely done.
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Dear Lyneane,
Ya think there might be two sides to that story? I think Gavin might just enjoy the peace and quiet for a while. 😉 Thank you, my sleepless friend.
Shalom,
Rukhelita
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I don’t know whether to be happy or sad for Gavin. Her parents may send her back given time. A good story and good writing, Rochelle. 🙂 — Suzanne
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Dear Suzanne,
I’m not sure Lois is going back to her parents. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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You’re right. The new guy, if there is one, will pay for that mistake. “He” may try to send her back. 😀 — Suzanne
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I can’t help but think of one the greatest O.Henry stories of all time. Ransom of Red Chief. 😉
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I’m also familiar with that story. It was hilarious. 😀 — Suzanne
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That’s a satisfying story with beginning, middle, and end, conflict and resolution in 100 words. A masterclass, Rochelle
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Thank you for your kind words, Neil.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I can sympathize with Gavin. Nobody’s walked out – yet. We just celebrated(?) our 51st anniversary…. and she wants to know why I don’t wear my hearing aids. 🙂
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Dear Archon,
47 here. Congratulations. 😉
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Maybe they are not destined to live together till the end. But this is one side of the story. the other side had to be heard.
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Dear Kalpana,
There are almost always two sides to every story, aren’t there? 😉 I think they might both be happier. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Hmm! I don’t think either of them tried very hard. Which begs the question of why they married in the first place…Well structured story, Rochelle. Shalom!
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Dear Penny,
Valid questions you ask. Oh that 100 word limit leaves the reader to her own imagination. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Lucky Gavin! The lead up to the Holidays is always so hectic – hope you can find your way through it all! 🙂
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Dear Iain,
Funny how a time that’s supposed to be joyous and relaxing has become insanity on steroids, isn’t it? Thank you. 😀
Shalom,
Rochelle
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They were clearly never meant for each other – it just took a while to realise it.
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Dear Keith,
It would seem so. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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That fell into Gavin’s plan. Just a little early and easy. Nice way to get what you really wanted in the first place.
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Dear Danny,
I’d say you have Gavin pegged. Thank you for taking the time to read and comment. 😉
Shalom,
Rochelle
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That kind of character is a problem not only with couples. It’s a risk with all kinds of circumstances. When Someone is entitled and a control freak, he can always be counted upon to contextualize in quite a conveniently self.serving manner.
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Dear Larry,
There is nothing worse than a controlling spouse. Hard to say here who’s really at fault. I guess I’ll leave that up to the reader.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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A Xmas love story, what can I say!
But I never liked that Gavin.
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Dear CE,
Not exactly a Hallmark Channel move, is it? Gavin’s probably a jerk.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I’m with you there, Rochelle. Too much going on in every way. Hang in there!
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Dear Josh,
Crazy times, these “holidays”. Thanks for the words of encouragement. Hope you enjoyed my story while you were here. 😉
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I did indeed, as always.
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😉
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Some things were not meant to be. Too bad there is a three year old involved… On the other hand, since you implied in another comment that there may be another man involved, perhaps the three year old isn’t even his. She did become a shrew before the diapers, at least to him…
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Dear Trent,
I actually didn’t imply anything other than she left and didn’t return to her parents. I guess her destination is up to the reader. 😉 Interesting that we both went with Gavins and unfortunate relationships.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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No, you didn’t say where she went. I guess I have a naughty imagination 😉
It isn’t interesting that we used the same names, it is plagiarism pure and simple 😉 I decided to go with the rest of the story that you didn’t tell.
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😀 😀 😀
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And then Gavin added “OK, then forget the milk.” I just had to throw that in there. This sounds like a married gentleman doomed from the start. She turned into a shrew, why? He gave up trying, why? It’s often a two-way street. Well crafted story that leaves much to the imagination.
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Dear Jan,
All of those questions are up to the reader in this piece. Thank you.
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I just love a wonderfully crafted piece of fiction – and this fits the bill in every way. And the “snark-casual” tone of “pick up milk” – just clinched it for me. Especially her reply. As for the actual dynamics of the failed relationship? Well, let’s just allow for minds to consider and be content with this snippet, voyeuristic glimpse. Word perfect Rochelle. 🙂
Happy holidays and hopefully you can find some breathing room and peace.
Shalom
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Dear Wildchild,
I’m pleased you understood the snark and circumstance of my story, Thank you for your kind words. 😀
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Lois and Gavin might’ve gotten their way … but what of the little one? Perhaps the change will diffuse tensions, though I wonder — did either one of them wonder what will become of the boy’s relationship with his father? So often children are the afterthought to separation, when they are so often impacted at least as much if not more than the adults.
Well done in transmitting the conflict, the selfishness, and the blind spots!
Am sharing my contribution, of a different kind of perspective, if I may … 😉
Na’ama
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Na’ama Y’karah,
Six years ago when I posted this story I don’t remember anyone mentioning the child. I even thought about tweaking the kid out of the story. Kind of wish I did. 😉 Alas, we are experiencing our own family drama where the children have been afterthoughts in someone’s mind. Thank you for not reporting me to family services. And thank you for your kind words re my story.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I think that it is not uncommon for children to be left out of some considerations or actual discussions, though often not out of malice but out of protection or preference of belief that they’d be okay or would not know or understand …
As per reporting to family services … while I’d done my share, alas, of having to make reports, as a mandated reporter and a concerned person in some children’s life, I don’t think that this bit of fiction quite makes the ‘bar’ … 😉
Na’ama
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Dear Rochelle,
There are always three sides to a story: hers, his and reality (which we rarely get to see).
Methinks this was definitely a case of going into something for all the wrong reasons and knowing it was probably a mistake…
Lotsa love,
Dale
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Dear Dale,
True nuff. These two had no business being married. Perhaps the shrew should’ve left the boy with his daddy. SMH 😉 I give up. It’s called humour. Of course you know my take on this. Thank you.
Shalom and hugs…and a little cheese with the whine…wine…that’s what I need. 😉
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Of course I do…
Wine. I’m in!
xoxo
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🍷🍷
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🥂🥂
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Seems Lois doesn’t know how to keep a man around. I guess it doesn’t always pay to tame the shrew. Darkly funny stuff, Rochelle. Loved it!
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Dear Eric,
Sometimes it’s all about space and peace. 😉 Glad you caught the black humor. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Once again we had similar ideas, and once again I promise you I wrote before I read 🙂
As always, a great story.
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Dear Linda,
Actually, while our stories were similar, I wouldn’t have thought you’d gotten your idea from mine. Unless, of course, you named them Lois and Gavin. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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🙂
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This is my first time reading and I enjoyed it very much. An entire story in so few words, you always do that so well! I think Lois will never be happy and I feel glad for Gavin (not the child though).
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Dear Brenda,
I really thought about editing the child out before I reposted, but that line between I do and diapers begged to be left in. At any rate it’s been the catalyst for quite the disctussion. 😉 I’m glad you enjoyed it and took the time to say so.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I so remembered the picture and decided to rewrite my own story for the same image… I really loved this as it seemed to be passive way for the wife to take the first step…
Saw my old comment:
It’s too late to cry over spilled milk
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Dear Björn,
This is a fun photo. When Doug shared it with me it was in no way as a prompt idea. 😉
I think Gavin and Lois’ marriage has been doomed for a some time. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I’m happy that Gavin will find peace at last. And a very happy birthday in advance to your hubby Rochelle. Shalom.
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Dear Anurag,
Gavin got what he wanted. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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peace only if it lasts
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Only time will tell, Arora. Thank you for coming by.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Garage seems to be his only sanctuary as long as she is in the house. He must be relieved she is going for a few days.
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Dear Abhijit,
The garage is his sanctuary for sure, but she’s not just leaving for a few days. She’s leaving him for good.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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He has taken a risk in desperation. He is aware she will be upset. They are together. Thank you for reading.
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I can imagine him saying, all deadpan, “Oh no. What will I do without you. I’m devastated. Don’t let the door hit you on the way out.” as he gets back to his pottering around 🙂
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Dear Ali,
You most definitely understand the essence of the story. Thank you. 😀
Shalom,
Rochelle
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For once I find myself with divided sympathies here. Although on balance… probably Gavin wins out. Nicely done, Rochelle. I don’t remember this one, but there have been so many stories over so many years of FF, it’s hardly surprising.
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Dear Sandra,
I seem to be getting more mixed feelings about this one than I did the first time which I find interesting. When I wrote it my sympathies were completely with Gavin. But then I was writing it from his POV. 😉 Thank you for sticking around for all these years.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Hello. Thank you for the fine prompt. I will be busy all day but look forward to reading the other responses.
Your story was funny and sad, but I wish them both well.
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Dear D.
These days, as it’s the holidays and I’m writing a novel, just getting around to reading, commenting and replying takes a solid week. 😉 Thank you re my story. 😀
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I love that opening line! Time passes in so few words. And who knows what happened but it sounds like they’ll both be better off.
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Dear Lish,
I think they’ll both be happier without each other, too. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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That’s horrible. I feel sorry for the little kid. My son is divorced, and it’s hard on my grandchildren sometimes.
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🤐
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A shrew who needs taming. Here are your missing commas. ,,,,
Shalom,
Ronda
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Dear Ronda,
I don’t think Gavin wants to tame this shrew. Thank you for not calling family services on me. Thank you for the commas…I’ll see what I can do with them…or not. Thank you for reading and commenting. 😉
Shalom,
Rochelle
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if the relationship is that bad, it’s better for it to end. like they say, it takes two to tango.
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Dear Plaridel,
You’re probably right. Thank you for coming by.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Dear Ruby Slippers W(T)F,
You wrote pretty well six years ago. How come you’re so much better now? Have some of these FF Fictioneers (Sandra, et al) been rubbing off on you?
I would have award you a clown nose for this one, but one’s the limit in a 12 month period and you’ve already filled your tag for this year.
Merry Hanukkah,
Mr. MacFeely (that’s Mac-Feely to you)
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Dear Mr. Mac-Feely,
That clown nose makes a great nose warmer on these cold days. I do get some funny looks with it though. Not sure why. 😉 I can’t think of a better writer to glean from than Ms. Crook.
I can’t believe I’ve begun my 7th year as Queen Bus Driver. (I tossed your joy buzzer a long time ago.) Thank you for the compliment. 😀
Shalom and Happy Merry Hannakwanzachristmakkah,
Ruby Slippers W(T)F
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Surely worse things have happened!!! I say good riddance!
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Dear Violet,
I know Gavin shares your sentiments. Thank you for reading and commenting.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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It happens, but it’s sad. On the other hand, it makes for a funny story! Nicely written Rochelle!
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Dear Russell,
I’m glad you saw the humor in my story. It’s what I was going for. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Actually, she took a wise decision. The child may be a reason that she held strong for so long.His life may have turned ugly if the parents had stayed together. Also, who knows why she was shrewd and he was so adjusting??? Leaves us to choose our ending…
Lovely read as always.
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Dear Ira,
This one has spurred a lot of discussion this week. Actually a compliment for a writer, I think. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Good riddance. Some marriages can be like that – exhausting!
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Dear Ira,
I concur. Thank you for reading and commenting. 😀
Shalom,
Rochelle
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He needs to be happy. Somehow, I think she was expecting him to call her back.
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Dear SLSM,
Not sure what’s going through her mind. At any rate I don’t think he’s calling her to come back. 😉 Thank you for coming by. 😀
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I immediately recognized the Frisbee golf basket in the photo, but the ball called to me, so…my husband also has a history as a disc-slinger. 😊
This husband managed to avoid confrontation, to the point of losing his wife. Not sure who the guilty party is, here. There are few times in a woman’s life, when she needs more support and understanding ( even when she is acting like an idiot) than when her children are small.
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Dear Andrea,
I never knew what disc golf was until I met Doug who is passionate about his disc flinging. I’m amazed at what some of that plastic costs.
As for my story…I’ve gotten very different feedback on it than I did 6 years ago. Interesting. I’m guessing the guilt in this marriage is equally divided and the big loser is the child.
Thank you so much for your affirming comments. 😀
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I know that ‘too busy to write’ thing, having been on Nanny duty for 24 hours. As far as your story goes, I find myself on the husband’s side for once!
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Dear Liz,
Tis the busiest time of the year, isn’t it? I kind of sided with the husband myself. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Something changes after the “I dos” are exchanged. Tiny things that all add up. Nicely done.
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Dear Jo,
Those tiny things do add up, don’t they? Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I love how you presented their life together falling apart in so few words. A really excellent write Rochelle.
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Dear Lisa,
Your sweet comment makes me smile. Thank you. 😀
Shalom,
Rochelle
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As long as they are happy.
I am concerned about the little one though.
A well, written piece, Rochelle.
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Dear Priya,
The little one is a concern in such a scenario. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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The transition to diapers is the key to your story, Rochelle – and you captured it beautifully in that simple phrase.
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Dear Jilly,
You get the prize for understanding my story. 😀 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Lovely. I won a prize! Fab. Thank you, Rochelle 🙂
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Hi Rochelle!
After some time he may think he may be lucky next time and fall in the trap again or may not. You always write beautifully.
Shalom.
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Dear Indira,
Sadly, couples who divorce tend to repeat their mistakes. 😦 Thank you re my writing. 😀
Shalom,
Rochelle
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my pleasure, dear.
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You basically wrote my marriage. Brrrr. Only thing is: she’s taking his kid, too.
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Dear Stu,
My condolences…or congratulations? Thanks for coming by.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Oh dear- no joy in their marriage then. How about a little couples therapy ???
Thinking Christmas time – the best words to wish for are : I’m having a quiet Christmas this year. Hope there are calm moments in yours Rochelle.
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Dear Francine,
I suspect, from Gavin’s reaction, there’s no couples’ therapy on the horizon. 😉 Things are slowing a bit this week until Saturday when we’re going to Chicago to spend the holiday with our ‘baby’ and his wife. Enjoy your holiday. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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It’s always sad when a couple drifts so far away from from each other that the farewell is devoid of all emotion except relief. Well told, Rochelle.
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Dear Magarisa,
There are some couples who are much happier apart. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Sounds like Gavin was waiting for this outcome, if there ws nothing else he could do, then who could blame him
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Dear Michael,
A friend of mine recounts her divorce with glee. She said when her husband told her he wanted a divorce her reply was, “It’s about time.” So there you go. Thank you for reading and commenting.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Oh dear. What a mess. What could have been a better relationship failed on miscommunication and trust issues. A bit sad actually.
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Dear Laurie,
I suppose it is a sad situation. Although I was going for humor. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Most relations end due to mistrust and not enough reciprocation from their partner. Sad that she mistrusted him so much that finally, he stopped trying, she left and it ended their beautiful relation.
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Dear Kislaya,
I’m not sure these two ever had a relationship that could be called beautiful. 😉 Thank you for reading and commenting.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Sounds like a toxic codependent relationship to me, which eventually worked out for the best!
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Dear Fatima,
In my mind, it worked out for the best. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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