fiction – Judith Pettersen

Random Junior High Memories

I was in junior high when I first heard Englebert Humperdink sing The Last Waltz on the radio. I was so impressed with his voice. I mean, I knew he was old. At least forty, with one foot in the grave. When you’re 14, anyone over 20 is ancient. His hit song, ‘Please Release Me’ I didn’tContinue reading “Random Junior High Memories”

Odd Duck Syndrome

I’ve not received an official diagnosis for ODS. It’s just something I figured out while moving through my life. You know how when you get old enough, you eventually find your people? You might nod at each other at social events, recognizing your similarities. You share an understanding, like when two masons give each otherContinue reading “Odd Duck Syndrome”

Seat Mate

I recently attended a reunion with folks Clarence and I travelled with in 1978. From Istanbul to Kathmandu, we hunkered down together in the back of an old army truck, bitching about the cold, the 4:30 AM breakfasts and many, many other tribulations. It felt a bit like a four month season of Survivor. NoContinue reading “Seat Mate”

The Bite

Last night I was awakened by the most intense itching sensation on my right arm, halfway between my bicep and tricep muscles. Not that there’s much muscle to talk about…I halt my gym attendance in the summer because I work hard in the garden. Although lately I’ve been enjoying lying around and reading my book.Continue reading “The Bite”