 Contests & Activities: November 26, 2008 Issue [#2709] |
  Contests & Activities
This week: Edited by: Shannon  
More Newsletters By This Editor 
1. About this Newsletter
2. A Word from our Sponsor
3. Letter from the Editor
4. Editor's Picks
5. A Word from Writing.Com
6. Ask & Answer
7. Removal instructions
Welcome to the Contests & Activities Newsletter. I am Shannon , and I'm your editor this week.
Appreciate Much?
Every year at this time we are reminded of the things we are most thankful for: family, friends, good health, happiness, success. I am thankful for all these things, and I'm reminded of the last time I saw my paternal grandmother.
In 1983 my family moved from Alaska to Montana, leaving my grandparents behind. In August of 2002 I flew from Boise, Idaho to Soldotna, Alaska to visit my brother, his family and Grandma. I hadn't seen Gram since 1987. During these years her health had declined significantly. I remember Grandma being vibrant and alive, cooking tables full of food every time we'd visit (she was famous for her kidney bean salad), and she was always so happy to see us. Now she was dying of breast cancer, living in a nursing home and suffering from Alzheimer's. The nurses told me she probably wouldn't remember me.
I barely recognized the woman lying in the bed. My brother and his wife, my husband and I stood there looking at her as she slept, and I was struck by how cruel time can be.
Many people are afraid of the elderly--they get nervous around them and don't know what to say. This is the reaction my brother, his wife and my husband had. They all just stood there, unable to move or speak. Finally I approached Gram's bed and sat down next to her. I brushed the wisp of gray hair from her eye and leaned in close. "Hi, Grandma. It's me, Shannon."
She opened her eyes and looked at me. Confused, she stared long and hard, obviously not remembering who I was.
"Hon, she probably won't recognize you," the nurse said from the back of the room. "She doesn't even remember the family who comes to see her on a regular basis."
I ignored the nurse and leaned in closer. I smiled at her and stroked her wrinkled face. "Grandma, it's Shannon. I've come all the way from Idaho to see you," I said.
After what seemed like forever I could see the clouds of uncertainty dissipate, her eyes cleared and a smile spread across her face. "Shannon?" she said.
"Yes, Grandma, it's Shannon. How are you?" I asked as tears rolled down my cheeks.
Grandma grabbed me and hugged me fiercely. "Oh, I never thought I would see you again!" she cried. "I can't believe I'm holding you in my arms!"
I can tell you there wasn't a dry eye in the room.
Grandma and I had a wonderful visit, but it would be our last. In February of 2003 she passed away, but I will be forever thankful that I got to see her before she died--and that she remembered me.
I love you, Grandma.
There are many contests and activities to choose from here on WDC. I’ve tried to include a wide variety here, so hopefully you’ll find something to light a fire under your muse.
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| ID: 1488953
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| ID: 1451590
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And be sure to check out the comprehensive Contests and Activities listings. Each of the 150 items listed includes a short synopsis, providing you all the information you'll need to choose the contest or activity that's right for you.
Have an opinion on what you've read here today? Then send the Editor feedback! Find an item that you think would be perfect for showcasing here? Submit it for consideration in the newsletter!
http://www.Writing.Com/main/newsletters.php?action=nli_form
Don't forget to support our sponsor!
matthewhuge says, "Thanks for putting "100 Words Contest" [ASR] in your newsletter." You are very welcome, Ricky! Thank you for all your wonderful WDC contributions.
Cemetarykat says,Bring it on!  says, "Thank you Shannon, for the merit badge and the posting in your news letter. Great newsletter, thank you.
Write on!
Cemetarykat
May your angel watch over you, always!" Aw, thank you so much for that, Ceme! And may yours as well.
Jace--New prompt at 1380461  says, "Thanks so much, Shannon. Your newsletter is great. Contests are a favorite of mine on WDC, and your newsletter is my favorite of the favorites.  " You are so welcome, Jace, and thank you for your support. I appreciate it!
Submitted Items:
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janieruthryals says: "This is primarily a reviewing activity to determine the top Golden Award Recipient. The work of twelve very talented writers is highlighted here. Awards available for both Top Golden Recipient as well as the reviewers who will be voting for the winner. I would love to receive some exposure for this endeavor and would appreciate any help the editors of this newsletter can provide! Thanks so much in advance for your consideration. 
*****
Hannah-Paper Doll Gang  says: "NAI's first Auction. Great newsletter!"
*****
michellekeyes says: "I have an upcoming activity with a contest coming up. I would love it if you could include it in your next newsletter. The ID is above! Great newsletter, keep up the great work!"
*****
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Billy is away--sick  says: "Would you put this in your next newsletter, please? We'd appreciate it so much!  "
Thank you all so much for reading and submitting your items to the newsletter. I appreciate your continued support. Write on!
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