The Flag Mr. Dell Flew First
On our cul-de-sac, Mr. Dell, ninety-one, raised a second flag beneath Old Glory every time one of our kids deployed. Fourteen times since 1984. Army, Marines, Navy, and one Coast …
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The Wheelbarrow That Built Forty-One Ramps
The rule at my grandfather’s hardware store is carved into a board above the pegboard: BORROW THE TOOL. BRING IT BACK WHEN YOU’RE DONE. No deposits. No names. Since 1961. …
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The Pay Phone That Stayed
The phone company sent a technician to remove the last pay phone in the county on Thursday. It stood at the bus depot. The glass was cracked. The coin slot …
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The Tin Cup at Miller Place
A tin cup has hung by the roadside well on the Miller place since 1937. The sign says: ANYONE THIRSTY. The county wanted it removed. Liability. The hearing was held …
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The Supper Set for 6:15
My mother has served supper at 6:15 p.m. sharp for fifty-eight years. Not 6:10. Not 6:20. My grandfather’s shift at the paper mill ended at 6:05, and she wanted the …
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The Drawer for Whoever Breaks Next
My mother-in-law keeps a nine-drawer dresser in her guest room. Every drawer has a laminated name label. Mine has been stocked for six years with my exact tea, my allergy …
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Her Oncologist Knelt Down In A Cape And Revealed Something Even Bigger
My 7-year-old daughter, Alice, has been fighting cancer for almost a year. It’s been awful. Chemo, needles, nausea, days when she’s too weak to even sit up in bed. But …
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The Notes Under the Wiper
For six years, a note appeared under my wiper blade at least once a month. The handwriting was always the same. Tight letters. No name. PASSENGER REAR TIRE LOW. My …
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The Woodpile at the End of Kessler’s Driveway
The free woodpile at the end of Kessler’s driveway has one rule, painted on the crate: TAKE WHAT YOU NEED. It has been restocked every morning at 5 a.m. for …
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The Lemon Cake for Just in Case
My mother-in-law brings a cake to every family birthday. Even when she is not hosting. Even when there is already cake on the table. For nine years, there have been …
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