Create Art Podcast

Welcome friend, I am Timothy Kimo Brien head instigator of Create Art Podcast where we help you tame your inner critic and create more than you consume. I have over 20 years in the arts and education and I use commentary, conversations, projects, and interviews to help you express what is inside you and overcome the inner critic that may be stifling your expression.

This episode will review all we have accomplished in 2020. Some numbers to start off are 48 episodes, 9 interviews, 2 features on other podcasts, 2 conferences, and all the while focusing on helping you with your art. What has 2020 been for you, what have you accomplished, this episode is not to compare what I have done with what you have done, rather I want to show what is possible. Take time to review what you have accomplished and share that with me, I am very interested in supporting your work. Listen in and get inspired and let's see what 2021 will bring. Reach out to me via email at [email protected]

• Writers Drinking Coffee

• Audio Drama with Scott Murray

• Scott Murray Links :

• The Crimson Files

• CJ Robinson Links

• The Poetry Novelist

• Poetic Earthlings Podcast

• tiasunshine.art

• Gagglepod Studios

• Super Joe Pardo Show

To reach out to me, email [email protected] I would love to hear about your journey and what you are working on. If you would like to be on the show or have me discuss a topic that is giving you trouble write in and lets start that conversation.

• Email : [email protected]

Thank you for joining us here at Create Art Podcast, I am Timothy Kimo Brien your head instigator with over 20 years in the arts and education helping you to tame your inner critic and create more than you consume. Today we have Samuel Moore-Sobel talking with us about his newest memoir Can You See My Scars. To listen to other episodes make sure to subscribe to your podcast app of choice or click here to view all of our other episodes.

Imagine if you will experiencing a traumatic event early in life and how that might affect you as you struggle through entering high school. Samuel recounts this event and the outcomes from suffering burns to his face and arms. This is a harrowing tale of not just overcoming but finding purpose in life. Samuel is an author, journalist and pubic speaker who describes in his book about his traumatic event and uses the art of memoir to show us all the power of resiliency and endurance.

• The Power of words

• Can You See My Scars

To reach out to me, email [email protected] I would love to hear about your journey and what you are working on. If you would like to be on the show or have me discuss a topic that is giving you trouble write in and lets start that conversation.

• Email : [email protected]

WRITING AND PODCASTING A NOVEL WRAP-UP 2020

Welcome friend to Create Art Podcast where we create more than we consume. I am Timothy Kimo Brien your thankful head instigator with over 20 years in arts and education helping you tame your inner critic and provide you with commentary, interviews, discussions, and projects that will inspire you to create art. This month I will be podcasting daily and writing a novel in 30 days. I am participating in NaPodPoMo and NaNoWriMo. You will be able to listen to what I wrote for the day and read it at the same time. I like to practice what I preach when it comes to art so I am challenging myself to write and having you come along for the ride. I hope this inspires you to accomplish your goals with your art and if you would like to share what you are doing email me at [email protected]

• "Pre-game" your project

To reach out to me, email [email protected] I would love to hear about your journey and what you are working on. If you would like to be on the show or have me discuss a topic that is giving you trouble write in and lets start that conversation.

• Email : [email protected]

WRITING AND PODCASTING A NOVEL 30 NOV 2020

Welcome friend to Create Art Podcast where we create more than we consume. I am Timothy Kimo Brien your thankful head instigator with over 20 years in arts and education helping you tame your inner critic and provide you with commentary, interviews, discussions, and projects that will inspire you to create art. This month I will be podcasting daily and writing a novel in 30 days. I am participating in NaPodPoMo and NaNoWriMo. You will be able to listen to what I wrote for the day and read it at the same time. I like to practice what I preach when it comes to art so I am challenging myself to write and having you come along for the ride. I hope this inspires you to accomplish your goals with your art and if you would like to share what you are doing email me at [email protected]

30 Nov 2020    2675 daily count 50061 cumulative count

                It was about an hour since Myra and Cheryl had left. Carl was still feeling groggy but began to worry about the two of them. He checked his phone when he heard giggling from outside his front door. It was the girls and he started to get up and take off the blanket when they opened the door. Cheryl had her hands full and Myra was closing the door when they headed for the kitchen table. Carl got up and started to remove the items from the bags.

                “So we got everything we needed plus a few things for tomorrow when we go over to Nate’s,” said Cheryl.

                “I just got up a little while ago and had a good nap. I think tonight I will get a good nights sleep. Can’t wait to eat some gyros,” said Carl.

                “Well they didn’t have the lamb slices so we are using diced chicken, but other than that this will be an authentic gyro and Greek salad,” replied Cheryl as she placed the items in the fridge.  The diner and snacks were put away Cheryl motioned Carl to sit back down on the couch. “We got it from here, you just sit back and relax, did you pick out a movie for us to watch. We are definitely in the mood for something funny,” said Cheryl.

                “I failed on that, but I did get a nap in. How about we watch the Minions movie. That always makes me laugh,” asked Carl?

                “I’ve never seen those movies but I have seen the commercials on TV. That sounds great. Can we eat at the coffee table and watch the movie,” asked Myra?

                “I don’t see why not. Lets just be extra careful and not get anything on the floor. How was shopping with Cheryl, asked Carl?

                “She was great. She let me climb in the cart and we went all over the store and I grabbed things as we passed by them. I got a new toothbrush and toothpaste and some shampoo so I wont have to smell like you,” said Myra.

                “How much do I owe you,” asked Carl?

                “I had a god day at work, really good tips today, so no worries. I got this today. No episodes, she was very lively and fun to take to the store. We just grabbed some necessities for the next week like cereal and lunches and tonights dinner and some toiletries. You are the one that has to prepare this stuff, but I think we have a great helper,” replied Cheryl.

                “Before you go to bed tonight, there is something we need to discuss that I just found out,” said Carl softly to Cheryl.

                “That’s fine, but let’s get the movie up and ready, this dinner shouldn’t take too long to get together,” replied Cheryl.

                Cheryl and Myra started making the dinner and Carl grabbed plates, silverware, and napkins on the coffee table. He also grabbed glasses and saw that Cheryl had purchased chocolate milk, so he filled up Myra’s glass with that and put water in his and Cheryl’s glasses. He looked through his DVD collection and saw that he did not have the movie they wanted, so he started up his streaming service and purchased the movie. He then created another account for Myra so that she could see whatever movies she wanted. He did put parental controls on it so she would not be able to buy movies or rent them without him putting in his code.

                The laughter from the kitchen between Cheryl and Myra was just what Carl needed at this time. With the knowledge of her father’s demise fresh in his mind, he wanted to take Nate’s advice and keep things light tonight. From the bits of the conversation that Cheryl and Myra were having, he did not hear anything about adoption or personal things that she would not know. Maybe the episode corrected her brain. There was no talk about the book that she had been reading and he did not see it among the things that Cheryl and Myra brought in, maybe it was still in Cheryl’s car. He did not want to bring it up and tempt fate, but he made a mental not to ask Cheryl about it after they had put Myra to bed. This was the noise in his house, now their house, that he craved.

                It took about forty-five minutes to get everything put together. Cheryl and Myra brought out the food to the coffee table and placed their napkins in their laps. Carl started up the movie and the adults stole glances as each other when they hear Myra softly murmur wow or neat. Cheryl gave Carl a thumbs up as Myra’s eyes started to droop towards the end of the movie. It was getting late and all the food was eaten, there would be no leftovers which suited Carl just fine. He was not a huge fan of them unless they were chili or something that tasted better the next day. He remembered his mother’s cooking which was not very good and every night they had leftovers and had to reheat them the next day and the next day until they were eventually thrown out.  Is the main reason he learned to cook for himself after watching various shows on PBS and other food based cable networks.

                The movie was rolling the credits and Myra was softly asleep on the couch between Cheryl and Carl. He picked her up and took her to her bedroom and helped her change into her pajamas. Myra climbed into bed and pulled up the blankets. Carl started to leave the room and she called him over, “ Thank you for a great day, I can’t wait to get up and have some fun over at your brothers house tomorrow.”

                “You are welcome and I can’t wait for you to meet Nate and his kids tomorrow either. I think you wil like it there, now lets get some sleep. I will leave the bathroom light on like I did last night and if you need me or Cheryl we are here for you. You have had a couple of busy days and we have a few more for you in store. I will call the doctor on Monday and we will try to get you in quickly. Now go off to sleep and have great dreams, “said Carl softly. He gave her a pack on the cheek and a big hug as Cheryl came into the room.

                “Hey big girl, you get some rest now. We are going to have a great day. I have to work but I will see you in the morning and after you get back from Nate’s we will go to the mall and have some fun alright,” asked Cheryl?

                “Okay, it was fun cooking with you tonight. Cn we do that again tomorrow night,” asked Myra?

                “You got it kiddo, now crash out and we will see you in the morning,” said Cheryl as she gave Myra a kiss on the forehead and hugged her.

                Carl had started clearing the dishes and began washing them as quietly as he could as Cheryl came into the kitchen and put on water to boil for some tea. Carl looked at her inquisitively.

                “Tea before you go to bed,” asked Carl?

                “Yeah, it helps me sleep. That bed of yours is comfortable, but it is not my bed. You said you had some information that I needed to know. Should we get out the diary and put it in there because it may be important,” replied Cheryl.

                “No, no need for the diary. Nate called. They found her father, he committed suicide this morning. Nate wanted to know if Myra had left anything at the motel they were staying at and I told him I didn’t know and wasn’t even sure if it was the same motel they were staying at since it was just outside of state lines. Did she ever tell you the name of the hotel,” asked Carl?

                “Is he sure it was her father,” asked Cheryl?

                “According to Nate, description matches, if she left anything the police will be looking for her. But with the diary and everything going on, I am thinking that he may have violated the rules of the diary and that is his punishment. I don’t want to say anything to Myra now or possibly ever about this, but yeah it looks like she is officially an orphan now. Angela is working up her background investigation and we may have more information tomorrow,” replied Carl.

                “That is a tough way to go for this girl. Having your father abandon you then off himself.  That is going to be years of counseling for sure. I think you are right in keeping t from her now, but in the future she is going to want to know, I know this isn’t something we have talked about but at some point we are going to have to talk with her about everything that is happening so she can make sense of it,” replied Cheryl.

                “That is the sixty-four-thousand-dollar question, when. I am calling my doctor on Monday to get her in about the episodes and see what is going on in her brain. I will ask Angela and Nate if they can recommend a good therapist for her. In order for all the medical stuff to get paid for, I am going to need to adopt her officially and it would look good if she had a stable home to stay at, like a mother/father situation. We need to talk about that at some point and what that means to us. I had no plans to ever get remarried after the divorce and with my diagnosis. Since we both signed in the diary, I think we are both in this together. I can adjust my will and my dependents to include you and Myra. My policy is pretty hefty because I got it before my diagnosis. With everything happening the way it is, I just want to make sure you and Myra are taken care of,” said Carl.

                “That is the strangest marriage proposal I have ever heard. I usually try not to poke into personal affairs, but what about your ex? She is going to want a cut of the money I am sure, how does she fit into all of this,” asked Cheryl?

                “She and I are on good terms. I think she would be thrilled that I am taking care of a child. Naturally, I am sure she wished it were her, but I think she has moved on from me as much as possible. I will talk with her; she should have no problem finding someone else if that is what she wants in her life. We had an open relationship in terms of communication. I do not think she will be unreasonable. I will just let her know that she still gets a cut unless she remarries. What do you think,” asked Carl?

                “In for a penny, in for a pound. Let’s get the Myra situation straightened out with Nate and Angela and then we can move forward on what we look like. I am sleeping in the bed alone tonight though since I don’t have a ring on my finger yet. This was definitely not in my ten-year plan that you told me to develop last year,” joked Cheryl.

                “Hey, my ten-year plan didn’t involve adopting a child or getting married. Basically, my ten-year plan was to die quietly and make a few people rich,” joked Carl.

                “Let’s not joke about that,” Cheryl replied sternly.

                “Its my dark humor, I am sorry. I know this is rough on you learning all this about me and now taking on Myra. I will try to be more delicate about my situation,” said Carl.

                “I’m just finding myself not wanting to loose either of you. I am sensitive to it, just keep down the dark humor and do not use it in front of Myra, I am sure she will not understand. It is a defense mechanism, I know, I helps you, but it does not help me,” said Cheryl.

                The tea kettle started to lightly whistle as Cheryl got up and took it off the heat. She pulled down two cups and poured the hot water into them. They sat drinking their tea silently, looking at each other. Cheryl grabbed Carl’s hand and squeezed it. They both smiled. It was nearing ten at night and they both heard some light scrambling from the hallway to Myra’s room

                “How much do you think she heard,” asked Cheryl getting up.

                “Well hopefully nothing about her father’s suicide. I didn’t hear her get up at all. Do you want to go to her room and check on her or should I,” Carl asked?

                “I’ll look in on her, it is my turn anyhow. Do you like the tea, it is one specially made to help people sleep,” asked Cheryl?

                “I’m not usually a tea drinker, but I could get used to this,” replied Carl.

                “We sell it at the shop, but I get a good employee discount on it so its not that expensive. Don’t fall asleep just yet,” said Cheryl as she went to Myra’s room. She opened the door to the bedroom slightly and stood at the door listening for Myra’s breathing.

                “Are you awake sweet girl, Carl and I are just talking. Did you want to come to the kitchen and sit with us,” asked Cheryl testing to see if Myra was awake. She heard a little bit of whimpering from Myra. “Okay sweetie, you can come to the kitchen if you want and talk with us.”

                Cheryl left the door slightly open and returned to the kitchen and sat down with Carl who was yawning.

                “I think she may have heard the last bit that we were talking about, the stuff with you. I think it would be a good idea if you sat her down and talked about the episodes you have, maybe not the tumor. She may be identifying with you and think that she may die because of the episodes and that can scare kids,” said Cheryl.

                “I’ll sit her down probably on Sunday when things quiet down. Do you want to be there for that discussion,” asked Carl?

                “Yeah, I think that would be best. We can show a united front and that you aren’t scared and she needn’t be scared either. Kids can pick up on fear like animals. I think we just leave her be tonight, she is whimpering a little bit but she should be fine,” said Cheryl.

                They finished their tea and both Carl and Cheryl were exhausted. Cheryl went tot eh bathroom and got herself ready for bed. Carl went back to the couch and pulled up the blankets and turned on the music channel for the TV.

                “I know, Grover Bechet again, but I am choosing a different genre of music, lets see you play low-fi techno you bastard,” said Carl to the TV as he switched music channels. Grover did not play on the channel and Carl started to drift off.

                “What did you say Carl,” asked Cheryl who had walked into the living room when she heard Carl speak?

                “Just telling a ghost to bite it, nothing much. I am putting on some soft music so I can sleep and Myra has something to distract her,” said Carl.

                Cheryl went back to the bathroom to finish up. She made sure to leave the light on for anyone who needed to use the bathroom in the middle of the night and headed to Carl’s bedroom which was fast becoming her bedroom. She climbed into bed and pulled up the sheets and drifted off to sleep. Carl was not that far behind her when he started the tell tale deep breathing and floated off to his dreams. 

To reach out to me, email [email protected] I would love to hear about your journey and what you are working on. If you would like to be on the show or have me discuss a topic that is giving you trouble write in and lets start that conversation.

• Email : [email protected]

WRITING AND PODCASTING A NOVEL 29 NOV 2020

Welcome friend to Create Art Podcast where we create more than we consume. I am Timothy Kimo Brien your thankful head instigator with over 20 years in arts and education helping you tame your inner critic and provide you with commentary, interviews, discussions, and projects that will inspire you to create art. This month I will be podcasting daily and writing a novel in 30 days. I am participating in NaPodPoMo and NaNoWriMo. You will be able to listen to what I wrote for the day and read it at the same time. I like to practice what I preach when it comes to art so I am challenging myself to write and having you come along for the ride. I hope this inspires you to accomplish your goals with your art and if you would like to share what you are doing email me at [email protected]

29 Nov 2020  1754  daily count    47386 cumulative count

                “How are you doing Carl,” asked Cheryl?

                “Well we had an interesting time at the pizza place. I think she had an episode like mine. It reminded me of mine and I almost had one myself. Since then she has pretty much reverted to where she was yesterday when we picked her up. Maybe the excitement of yesterday explains what she was saying this morning. It doesn’t explain the physical manifestations of what she was saying however,” replied Carl.

                “Maybe todays events go down in the diary. That seems pretty noteworthy,” replied Cheryl.

                “I don’t think so, remember, we only get 5 entries and the last one must detail how we gave the diary away. Plus I think that when we write that last entry, we have a limited amount of time before we pass away,” replied Carl.

                Myra sat at the kitchen table and devoured her milk and muffin with relish. Carl poured another cup of coffee and warmed it in the microwave as Cheryl made a face of disgust.

                “Warmed up coffee, really it is a good thing you have me in your life to get you out of that habit,” said Cheryl sarcastically.

                “Hey I don’t like to have any waste, I make a pot I drink a pot. Its very environmentally minded don’t you think,” asked Carl?

                “I think it is a crime against your tastebuds. Okay so what is the plan for today,” asked Cheryl.

                “Well Nate and Angela already stopped by with more toys and they took the clothes that don’t fit. Tomorrow we are going over to Nate’s house and talk while Myra has a great time playing with Nate’s kids. So really nothing planned for today other than dinner and maybe a movie since it is Friday night. Maybe we could start up a tradition with that, what kind of movie would you like Myra,” sked Carl?

                “My dad and I didn’t watch too much TV, usually some PBS specials or science shows,” replied Myra.

                “I have an idea, Myra and I will cook for our dinner and then Carl you pick a movie you think we may all like,” said Cheryl. “How are you in the kitchen Myra?”

                “I like helping, but I don’t have any recipes we usually had TV dinners or take out because my dad didn’t know how to cook anything,” replied Myra.

                “Well I know how to cook, and we know Carl can cook up some good things. What are you in the mood for Carl,” asked Cheryl?

                “Something easy that Myra can learn how to do right away, how about poutine,” replied Carl.

                “I don’t know how to make that, lets do some gyro’s and a Greek salad. How does that sound to you Myra, oh I forgot to ask, any food allergies that you know of,” asked Cheryl?

                “Just oranges, I can eat other kinda of fruit, but just not oranges,” said Myra.

                “I have the same allergy, when did you find out about yours,” asked Carl?

                “When I was about three or four, I had some orange juice for breakfast and then I couldn’t breathe,” replied Myra.

                “That is when I discovered my allergy, wow not many people have that allergy. Okay so Cheryl, no orange chicken ever from the Chinese place and no orange juice or orange cleaners. Otherwise you will have two people going into shock very quickly. I like the idea of gyro’s, but I don’t have the ingredients,” said Carl.

                “Myra and I can go to the store and grab them, would you like to get out of this stuffy apartment and run with me to the store,” asked Cheryl?

                “Sure, can I go Carl,” asked Myra?

                “Let me talk to Cheryl for a minute okay. Yes you can go, we just need to have a quick talk,” said Carl as he motioned Cheryl to the office. Myra finished off her milk and muffin and threw her trash away and then sat on the couch and opened up the book she had been reading for days. Carl and Cheryl went to the office and sat down.

                “So now she is calling me Carl again, I think that episode jolted her back into reality. Just watch her close at the store, she went to the bathroom at the buffet and passed out. I got so nervous that it almost caused me to have an episode, and that has never happened. I’ve never really been able to pinpoint why I get my episodes but this time I would say it was stress induced. Just do me a favor, if she needs to go to the bathroom go with her, obviously I can’t that would be weird, but just be with her at all times okay. If she goes into an episode she is harder to pull out of it than I am so be patient and let me know right away. I can run over to the store and help her out,” said Carl softly to Cheryl.

                “I’ll stick to her like glue. I’d like you to take nap while we are out okay, I know you have got to be exhausted,” said Cheryl.

                “I think that is a great idea, let me know if anything happens okay,” said Carl suddenly tired.

                They went back to the kitchen and Carl poured out the carafe of coffee that he had been drinking from. He set up another pot for the morning and Cheryl tapped Myra on the shoulder.

                “Time to go shopping and we will let Carl grab an hour of shut eye while we are gone okay,” said Cheryl.

                “Alright, can I bring my book along while you drive. I get car sick sometimes if I don’t have something to read,” asked Myra?

                “Of course, my driving is not the greatest so sometimes I read something while I drive in order not to get sick either,” joked Cheryl.

                They left Carl to go to the store. He laid down on the couch and turned on the TV. It was on the music channel again and before the next song could come on he turned it to a home improvement show. He put his phone on the coffee table and wondered if he should put on a blanket. The sun was going down slowly and by the time they got back he thought it would be early evening so he got up and turned on the kitchen light. It didn’t have much of an effect right now and wouldn’t disturb his sleep. He headed back to the couch and pulled up the blanket from the back of the couch. His eyes started to droop and finally he was softly snoring on the couch asleep.

                He was woken by his phone buzzing. It was his brother Nate calling him as he had a special pattern set for his brothers calls. Groggily he picked up the phone and looked around the apartment to see if Cheryl or Myra had come back from the store. When he didn’t see them he answered the phone, still under the blankets.

                “Whats up big bro,” carl asked?

                “Well Vince got some information that you need to know right away. Where is Myra,: asked Nate?

                “She and Cheryl went to the store to get stuff to make gyros and Greek salad for dinner tonight,” replied Carl starting to wake from his nap.

                “Myra’s father has been found,” said Nate coldly.

                “Okay, so where is he and when do we give Myra back I guess is the answer you want to hear,” said Carl.

                “No, he is dead Carl. Vince did a search of the motels within an hour of the coffee shop. They found her father dead at a motel just outside of the state lines. It was a suicide. The report says that he shot himself and one of the staff heard the shotgun blast. This happened this morning at around 6”30 in the morning. That is when according to you that Myra started to go off the rails a bit right,” asked Nate?

                “Yeah that sounds about the right time. But wait, she had an episode at the pizza buffet place this morning at about noon and since then she has been back to normal, well normal for her,” replied Carl not mentioning his own almost episode.

                “That is when the police found the body. At least we know he won’t be coming around looking for her. This does present a problem, if there is any trace of Myra’s stuff in the hotel room they wil be looking for her. Did she leave anything in the hotel room,” asked Nate?

                “She said they were staying at a hotel for about a month, but I wonder was it the same hotel room,” asked Carl?

                “I’ll have Vince look into that. Did she tell you the name of the hotel they were at,” asked Nate?

                “No, I am not sure she would remember it either, but I can ask her tonight. We are just going to have dinner and a movie here and go to bed early since everyone ad a crappy night of sleep. In fact you just woke me up from a nap,” said Carl.

                “Well I thought you might want to know about this development. Sorry for waking you form the nap. Tell you what, hold onto this information and I can talk with Myra tomorrow. No need to worry her about this tonight. You all need a good night of sleep for sure. Angela is working on Myra’s background investigation with Vince and his team. We may have more of the puzzle solved tomorrow. For tonight, just have fun, keep everything light and we will tackle more of this tomorrow. Be safe,” said Nate as he clicked off the phone.

                Carl was fully awake now. The TV was still playing a home improvement show and the sun had dipped behind the other apartment complex. He switched channels on the TV to have some music play, again he turned it to the jazz channel. Grover was playing another song.  Carl was beginning to feel that Myra’s father didn’t follow the instructions of the diary and was feeling the repercussions of his choice. He really wanted to read the last entry of the father but decided that if suicide was the fathers punishment, how much worse would his be. Maybe he would have to listen to Grover Bechet for the rest of his life in a straight jacket in a mental ward. 

Welcome friend to Create Art Podcast where we create more than we consume. I am Timothy Kimo Brien your thankful head instigator with over 20 years in arts and education helping you tame your inner critic and provide you with commentary, interviews, discussions, and projects that will inspire you to create art. This month I will be podcasting daily and writing a novel in 30 days. I am participating in NaPodPoMo and NaNoWriMo. You will be able to listen to what I wrote for the day and read it at the same time. I like to practice what I preach when it comes to art so I am challenging myself to write and having you come along for the ride. I hope this inspires you to accomplish your goals with your art and if you would like to share what you are doing email me at [email protected]

To reach out to me, email [email protected] I would love to hear about your journey and what you are working on. If you would like to be on the show or have me discuss a topic that is giving you trouble write in and lets start that conversation.

• Email : [email protected]

WRITING AND PODCASTING A NOVEL 27 NOV 2020

Welcome friend to Create Art Podcast where we create more than we consume. I am Timothy Kimo Brien your thankful head instigator with over 20 years in arts and education helping you tame your inner critic and provide you with commentary, interviews, discussions, and projects that will inspire you to create art. This month I will be podcasting daily and writing a novel in 30 days. I am participating in NaPodPoMo and NaNoWriMo. You will be able to listen to what I wrote for the day and read it at the same time. I like to practice what I preach when it comes to art so I am challenging myself to write and having you come along for the ride. I hope this inspires you to accomplish your goals with your art and if you would like to share what you are doing email me at [email protected]

27 Nov 2020 1796   daily word count  45632 cumulative count

                They sat at the kitchen table and ate their frozen yogurt quietly. Occasionally they looked at each other and smiled and then went back to the yogurt. Changed the channel after the song was over to cartoons. He put on the channel that played older cartoons and they moved to the coffee table while still eating their yogurt. It was an hour before anyone said anything.

                “So, what happened in the bathroom,” asked Carl?

                “Sometimes I just go in and out. I don’t know how to describe it, but when I come out, I have to check myself like my dad taught me too. I usually don’t remember what happened just before,” meekly replied Myra.

                “I understand. I have these episodes as well when I fizzle out of what is happening and then I come back to what is happening. I almost had one when I was worried about you at the pizza buffet,” said Carl.

                “Pizza buffet, when did we go there,” Myra asked?

                “Sweetie, we had lunch there, you wanted to go to the arcade and then we were going to go get yogurt. You went to the bathroom and you didn’t come out. I sent in the manager to get you and we found you in the stall. Do you remember anything before the yogurt shop,” asked Carl?

                Myra furrowed her brow and tried hard to remember. “No, I just remember getting in the car and then going to the yogurt shop. We did the pizza buffet before,” asked Myra?

                “Yes we did and we were having a good time. How often do these episodes happen for you,” asked Carl?

                “I’m not sure, my dad usually tracks them, about a couple a week,” said Myra.

                “Did you used to go to a doctor when you were with your dad,” asked Carl?

                “We did a long time ago, but my dad said it wasn’t helping so we stopped going. I think it was then that he began tracking these episodes. Am I going to have to go back to a doctor,” asked Myra?

                “I think that would be best. I go to a doctor and he helps me out with my episodes. How about on Monday we call up my doctor and see if we can get you in with him and see what is going on with your brain. Let’s see if he can help alright,” asked Carl.

                “What if they find something, what do we do then,” asked Myra?

                “Well lets just see what is going on in that brain of yours and then we can go from there. Do you want to head to the playground and hang out or watch more cartoons,” asked Carl?

                “I am feeling pretty good, can we go to the playground and have fun,” asked Myra?

                “You bet, lets put the yogurt in the fridge for dessert tonight and then let’s hit the playground,” replied Carl.

                Myra took the buckets and placed lids on them. She took them to the fridge and headed for the front door. Carl got up and met her. He felt a little awkward having someone else clean up, but it felt nice to have someone there to assist and someone he did not have to train.  They left a note for Cheryl in case she came back before they did letting her know they were at the playground. Their first stop was the swings, Myra climbed on and Carl started to push her. There were no other kids or families in the playground so they had the place to themselves. Carl got on the swing next to Myra and pushed off from the ground.

                “So, what did you and Angela talk about this morning,” asked Carl?

                “What do you mean, I didn’t talk to her this morning,” replied Myra.

                “She came over with Uncle Nate, you two went into your bedroom and talked while Uncle Nick and I talked,” said Carl a bit astonished.

                “She didn’t come over this morning, who is Uncle Nate, I remember talking to him yesterday when we left the coffee shop and when he brought over some clothes yesterday,” replied Myra.

                “Do you remember anything from this morning, like eating cheese omelets with Cheryl and I,” asked Carl?

                “Oh I thought she was still asleep. No I don’t remember eating breakfast or anything before the yogurt shop. Did we do anything,” replied Myra.

                “How about yesterday, what do you remember from yesterday,” asked Carl?

                “Well I remember getting up in the hotel room with my dad and going to the coffee shop. Then he left for the bathroom and you and your brother took me back to your place. He talked to me for a while and then I remember going to bed,” replied Myra.

                “Has your dad done that before,” asked Carl? Myra stopped swinging and got off. She ran to the slides and money bars and started climbing on the playset. Carl slowed down his swinging to a stop. He was unsure if he should follow and just watched Myra go up and down the slides. He felt he may have said to much. He walked over to the benches and watched Myra play for some time. She occasionally looked at him and went back to climbing. Then she started at him and walked over to the benches and sat down.

                “No, my dad has never done that, do you think he is coming back,” asked Myra with tears starting to form in her eyes.

                “I am not sure, but you are safe staying with me ad Cheryl. I want you to know that. If he doesn’t come back you can stay with us and we will take care of you. We got you new clothes and toys and we can get you books and whatever you need. My brother Nate is a lawyer and his coworker Angela are going to help figure this out and maybe if you like I can adopt you. Would you like that,” asked Carl?

                Tears started streaming down Myra’s face and Carl instinctively put an arm around her. He was happy that there were no other children in the playground.

                “Do you know where the paperwork in the diary came from or how you got ahold of Angela’s book,” asked Carl?

                “I don’t know what you are talking about,” replied Myra sobbing gently.

                “You told me about your adoption paperwork and birth certificate in the diary and the book you had with you was one that Angela hasn’t written yet. How did you get those,” asked Carl?

                “My dad gave me that book about two weeks ago. I have been reading it and I didn’t know why he gave it to me. It is all about adoptions and I guess that is why you are talking about adoption now. Did my day leave me,” asked Myra?

                “Do you want to go back to the apartment and talk, you might be more comfortable there,” asked Carl hoping to avoid a scene?

                “Can we, I need a tissue,” replied Myra?

                They headed back to the apartment. Carl took the note off the door and reminded himself that he could have just texted Cheryl to let her know. He wondered how she was holding up and how much she remembered. Myra went straight to the kitchen table.

                “Can I get you some water to drink or something to nibble on,” asked Carl?

                “Water will be fine, can I grab a tissue from the bathroom,” asked Myra?

                “Go ahead,” replied Carl. He pulled out a glass and filled it with water. He knew he would need to go to the store and stock up on milk, juice and snacks soon. He sat at the table after he got the water and some crackers for them both. He saw that there was still coffee in the carafe and got up and poured himself another cup and warmed it in the microwave. When the buzzer went off he grabbed his mug and sat down next to Myra with a box of tissues.

                “My dad doesn’t want me does he,” asked Myra?

                “I am sure it is not that. It’s hard to be a single parent. Nate and Angela are working on how to get in contact with him right now and we will talk more to them tomorrow when we go to Nate’s house. Cheryl should be home soon with your treat,” said Carl trying his best to comfort Myra.

                “What treat,” asked Myra?

                “The chocolate milk and chocolate chip muffins that you like, remember from yesterday, you ate that up quickly. Now you told me your mother passed away when you were very young and you have no brothers or sisters. How about any uncles or aunts, maybe grandparents,” asked Carl?

                “My dad was an only child and after my mom died we never saw her parents again. My dad doesn’t talk about his parents either, so I have never met them,” said Myra.

                “Okay, well you are not alone, you have me and Cheryl and my brother and his family now. We will try to find your dad and get you back to him,” said Carl.

                “I don’t want to go back to him if he doesn’t want me,” said Myra.

                “You are upset, and I know you don’t mean that. We say things we don’t mean when we are upset. How about your friends at school, do you want to see them again,” asked Carl?

                “I don’t really talk to anyone at school. Just the teachers when they ask a question in class,” said Myra.

                “Well is there a social worker there at school that you talk to,” asked Carl?

                “No, I mean my dad had me talk to them once or twice, but I didn’t have anything to say so I just don’t talk to them,” replied Myra.

                There was a knock at the door and Carl went to look through the peep hole. It was Cheryl and she had a few bags in her arms. Carl opened up the door and let her in.

                “Okay I have a treat for a special girl. Did you two have some fun today,” asked Cheryl as she entered and went straight to the kitchen table. She opened up the bag from the coffee shop first and placed a bottle of chocolate milk and a muffin in front of Myra. She then took out the rest of the contents of that bag which was coffee beans, creamer and refined sugar and a box of tea bags.

                Myra perked right up when she saw her treats and opened the milk first.

                “Thank you Cheryl, we had frozen yogurt and played in the playground today, it was great,” said Myra, suddenly back to being cheery. 

To reach out to me, email [email protected] I would love to hear about your journey and what you are working on. If you would like to be on the show or have me discuss a topic that is giving you trouble write in and lets start that conversation.

• Email : [email protected]

WRITING AND PODCASTING A NOVEL 26 NOV 2020

Welcome friend to Create Art Podcast where we create more than we consume. I am Timothy Kimo Brien your thankful head instigator with over 20 years in arts and education helping you tame your inner critic and provide you with commentary, interviews, discussions, and projects that will inspire you to create art. This month I will be podcasting daily and writing a novel in 30 days. I am participating in NaPodPoMo and NaNoWriMo. You will be able to listen to what I wrote for the day and read it at the same time. I like to practice what I preach when it comes to art so I am challenging myself to write and having you come along for the ride. I hope this inspires you to accomplish your goals with your art and if you would like to share what you are doing email me at [email protected]

26 Nov 2020   1801 daily count 43836 cumulative count

                Carl stepped out of the bedroom and straight to the front door.

                “Did you say something Papa,” asked Myra?

                “Just talking to myself like I sometimes do,” replied Carl.

                They both climbed into his car and buckled in. Myra taking the passenger back seat so she could look at Carl. He turned on the radio, it was tuned to the local NPR station. The station was playing its jazz program and normally Carl would have listened, but the fear of hearing Grover Bechet drove him to put on a podcast that he was listening to.

                “Papa can we listen to the radio, I don’t like this podcast it’s too scary,” said Myra. He knew that some song by Grover was going to play, so he turned on the oldies channel. He thought to himself, that the oldies channel used to mean music from the 50’s and 60’s, but know it was music he had grown up with which made him feel that much older. Myra seemed pleased with his selection, at least she was not asking for jazz. He thought about the irony of that thought, his ex-wife was not aa fan of jazz and now he was avoiding it because of the curse.

                Traffic was fairly light as it was near lunch time. They pulled up to the buffet pizza place and saw that it had just opened about thirty minutes ago. They would be one of the first customers of the day so Carl knew that the food would at least be fresh. When they entered there was two booths occupied out of forty. Carl chose one where he could face the front entrance.

                “Can I play some arcade games when we get done eating,” asked Myra?

                “Oh most certainly, I used to be great at arcade games when I was a kid, maybe about your age. I would bug my folks all weekend long to take me to the mall arcade until they wilted and took me,” said Carl.

                The each went to the buffet line and carefully grabbed the first slices off the pizzas displayed. Myra looked up at Carl when they reached the dessert pizza, pleading with her eyes for permission. He nodded and took two pieces for himself to show he was a kid at heart. They both devoured their food, ignoring the blaring TV showing modern day cartoons.

                “If you are truly done, we can go to the arcade, but don’t tell me you are hungry in five minutes,” joked Carl.

                “I am done, just going to go to the bathroom, “replied Myra. With that she got up from the booth and went towards the bathroom. Carl got up and refilled their sodas and sat back down I the booth watching what passed for cartoons these days. A few more tables and booths filled up as he waited from Myra to come back from the bathroom. It had been ten minutes when he started panicking. He stood up from the booth to look around the restaurant. The busser came by to take their plates away and left the soda glasses.

                “Did you see the girl I came in with, she is nine years old, has brown hair to her shoulders, her name is Myra? She went to the bathroom about ten minutes ago and hasn’t come back,” said Carl excitedly.

                “I didn’t see you come in with a girl sir,” said the busser. Carl started sweating and getting dizzy. He sat down and the lights in the restaurant seemed to dim. “I can have one of the female staff look in the girls bathroom for you, what’s her name again?”

                “Myra, I would appreciate that, thank you. I am just going to sit here,” replied Carl. The lights were getting progressively dimmer and the noise from the TV was giving him a migraine. The busser went quickly to get his manager. A few minutes passed and the female manager came to the table.

                “Sir are you feeling okay, do we need to call an ambulance,” asked the manager?

                “I am okay, my girl, her name is Myra, she is nine years old. She went to the bathroom and hasn’t come back yet. I am just really worried about her. Can you check on her please,” Carl asked and was beginning to feel the familiar effect of one of his episodes. He could not look away from the TV he knew he would become unresponsive. The manager headed to the female bathroom and called out Myra’s name.  When Carl did not hear Myra’s voice calling back, he felt the episode getting worse and soon he would slip away. This time it felt like it had in the past where he would be difficult to rouse. Just then he heard the manager yell out.

                “Hey give me a hand, the girl is in the stall, I think she passed out. Sir can you help me please,” said the manager to Carl.

                He instantly snapped back into reality and ran to the bathroom. He found Myra, sitting on the toilet, pants down and her head leaning against the side of the stall. Her eyes were open, and her jaw was slack. He pushed the manager aside and cleaned up Myra. As he helped get her back together, he thought that this is probably what he used to look like to others, no wonder his brother and Cheryl hounded him about going to the doctor and following orders. He whispered into her ears “I am sorry baby girl, I am sorry, we will get you back home soon. Shhhhh Shhhh, we will get you all taken care of.” He turned to the manager, “she just had an episode, like an epileptic seizure just not as bad as that. She will be okay, I’m taking her home right now.” Slowly Myra woke up from the episode like Carl had so many times in the past. Her eyes blinked and her face became red from embarrassment. Her hands went straight to her legs to make sure she had on clothes and she began to lightly whimper into Carl’s shoulder.

                “I’m okay Papa, I am okay, this happens sometimes. I didn’t want you to worry. Can we still get frozen yogurt,” Myra asked?

                “We can grab some on the way home, you bet girl. Let’s go ahead and get you home. I thought I lost you there for a minute,” said Carl.

                “Are you two okay, I mean you don’t look to good yourself sir,” asked the manager?

                “We are going to be fine, thank you for looking into the bathroom for her, she just had an episode, we just need some rest. Thank you,” said Carl as he picked up Myra and started to take her to the exit.

                “I can walk Papa, really I am fine,” said Myra.

                “Let me get you outside and we can walk around,” replied Carl.

                The manager walked them through the restaurant and opened the door for them to go outside. She ran back and brought some wet towels to put on the back of Myra’s neck.

                “Are you sure you two are fine, because we can call an ambulance and get either you or her to the hospital,” asked the manager?

                “No really we are fine now, thank you. We have had an exciting couple of days and I think we need to just grab some frozen yogurt and get this girl watching some cartoons or national geographic or something,” said Carl reassuringly.

                Carl handed the towels back to the manager and she walked them both to his car. He pulled out of the parking lot more cautiously than usual and headed for their next stop, the frozen yogurt shop.

                “So what kind of yogurt are you looking to get, which one is your favorite,” asked Carl?

                “Peach is my favorite, thank you,” replied Myra. Carl noticed that she spoke in a more docile manner like she did when he was first introduced to her. She seemed much livelier when she woke up this morning and everything turned on its head. Maybe things were turning around, and she would be more of herself, whoever she really was.

                He knew his doctor would have a fit if he found out that Carl was driving after almost having his own episode much less a nine year old girl having one, but there was no one to drive either of them back home. He was feeling better as he turned on the air conditioning and let it blow on himself and Myra. He looked back at her and she seemed to get perkier as they got closer to the yogurt shop. Once there he parked the car close to the entrance.

                “Are you feeling up to going in or should I just grab and go for the both of us. I really don’t want to leave you in a running car, but if you are not up to it,” asked Carl?

                “No I can go in, I will be fine. Besides I want to put the sprinkles on it and the peach jam,” replied Myra.

                “Okay babe, you tell me if you are not feeling it and we will get out of there fast, besides we are going to take these home with us and watch more cartoons, maybe head over to the park,” said Carl.

                They both walked in a bit uneasy but manageable. Myra grabbed a big bucket for Carl and a medium sized bucket for herself, She went straight to the blue raspberry dispenser and started pouring in about half way full of that flavor and then switched over to a coffee chocolate blend for the rest of the cup. She handed it to Carl and filled her own bucket with peach frozen yogurt. When she had filled it she was at the topping buffet and put only on spoonful of sprinkles and a good sized drizzle of peach jam over her bucket. Carl went straight for the chunky chocolate candy pieces and drenched the whole bucket in chocolate hardening syrup. When they stepped up the counter to get their yogurt weighted and paid, Myra grabbed lids, spoons and napkins for both of them.

                “Looks like you got a great helper there sir,” said the cashier.

                “She is the best, thank you. Just having a lazy day today,” replied Carl.

                Myra opened the door to the exit and opened up the car doors so Carl could put down the treats on the driver side back seat. They both climbed in his car and went back to the apartment. Once there and still quiet they walked up to his apartment and went straight to the kitchen table. Carl turned on the TV which was still on the music channel, when Grover Bechet came on. 

To reach out to me, email [email protected] I would love to hear about your journey and what you are working on. If you would like to be on the show or have me discuss a topic that is giving you trouble write in and lets start that conversation.

• Email : [email protected]

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WRITING AND PODCASTING A NOVEL 25 NOV 2020

Welcome friend to Create Art Podcast where we create more than we consume. I am Timothy Kimo Brien your thankful head instigator with over 20 years in arts and education helping you tame your inner critic and provide you with commentary, interviews, discussions, and projects that will inspire you to create art. This month I will be podcasting daily and writing a novel in 30 days. I am participating in NaPodPoMo and NaNoWriMo. You will be able to listen to what I wrote for the day and read it at the same time. I like to practice what I preach when it comes to art so I am challenging myself to write and having you come along for the ride. I hope this inspires you to accomplish your goals with your art and if you would like to share what you are doing email me at [email protected]

25 Nov 2020   1842  daily count   42035 cumulative count

                “So, what is this book that Myra is talking about, she had a book yesterday and the other day at the coffee shop that she was reading, but I didn’t get a good look at it,” asked Carl?

                “Well I am writing a book for kids that discusses the adoption process in a way they can understand that is age appropriate. The problem is I haven’t published it yet and my goal was to give it to kids I worked with for free and sell it to the public at large,” replied Angela.

                “So the inscription I the book,” asked Carl?

                “Is my handwriting and it would be something I would write in a book, if I had published a book and handed it out to a child client. How did she get that,” asked Angela?

                “The same way she got the adoption papers with my signature on it. I know you and Nate are going to go over what I told him after you leave here. I am very freaked out about all of this. Have you ever encountered anything like this happening,” Carl asked?

                “Never in my time as a lawyer have I seen anything like this, I mean yeah I have seen kids trained on how to forge a signature, but if this girl has been coached, she has been very well coached. She totally believes what she is saying and well she is right about details that no one would know. Nate briefed me on what happened, but I’d like your take on this very quickly,” asked Angela.

                “Okay, it is not a short story at all, even though this whole thing started yesterday about this time. Before I tell you anything, am I in any danger that you can tell, is this girl going to knife me in my sleep,” asked Carl?

                “I doubt it, she really seems to have warmed up to you. In her mind she has had over a year to do that, in reality it has been a day. I have done overseen several custody cases and adoptions and I have never seen a child move so fast to an adopted parent. I don’t think you are in any danger, but I don’t know the motivation of Myra or her father,” said Angela.

                “I understand, so yesterday her dad left her at the coffee shop, we took her home. We read the instructions in the diary and that was about it yesterday. This morning at 5:30 she gets up and calls me Papa, that is when things started getting strange. Then she told me about the adoption and birth certificate which was not in the diary last night. She also told me about Nate’s kids which there is no way of her knowing about them and how you helped out with the adoption last year. She also talked about the book you gave her during the adoption process and here we are. Nate is going to get n investigator from your firm to look up Myra and try to find her father, but there is a problem, the diary is cursed and that curse has now spread to Cheryl and myself. I can’t let you guys read the information in it otherwise something bad will happen to me, Cheryl and possibly anyone who tries to find out more about the diary and its contents,” said Carl.

                “So we are really stuck in a catch-22, the information is there to help us but if we access it then something bad happens. I am not a superstitious person, but from what just transpired here I am beginning to be wary of that diary and what it entails. Nate told me a bit about your physical condition, how are you holding up,” asked Angela?

                “I am okay, sleep is always a problem with me but I am used to that. I am terminal with regards to my brain tumor and it will severely impact e at some point. I  was divorced and am on good terms with my ex, but as far as someone taking care of me when the time comes, that would be Nate and now possibly Cheryl,” replied Carl.

                “Okay, how about your will, I haven’t seen it, but I am sure Nate has you air tight on that aspect,” asked Angela?

                “Yeah that is all good to go, but now I think I am going to need to amend it to include Myra and Cheryl. I’ve known Cheryl for a few years now and she is into this as deep as I am with regards to Myra so she may become a player in this soon. We haven’t really talked about it since all this happened yesterday,” replied Carl.

                “I am going to need some time with Cheryl and who has the adoption paperwork and birth certificate, I am going to need to pour through those,” asked Angela?

                “Nate took them just now so I am sure he will go ahead and get you read up on those when you guys leave. Anything I should do right now for Myra to get her set up for school, doctor stuff” asked Carl?

                “I need to review those documents first, then we can go from there. Right now, just document everything that happens that is out of the ordinary. I know before you even say anything everything is out of the ordinary. Just do your best to document. We will get to the bottom of this, but we need you to stay healthy and sharp okay. Think about a plan for care for Myra in case you can’t care for her or need to take time off,” said Angela.

                Nate knocked on the front door and Carl jumped up from the table to answer it. He didn’t need to look through the peep hole because he could hear Nate and Myra talking behind the door.

                “You were very helpful Myra, thank you so much, now go ahead to your bedroom and put your new toys away. Put the clothes that don’t fit into the bad neatly and let me know when you are done okay, “said Nate. Myra headed to her bedroom with a bag full of toys and Nate looked at Angela. “Did you two get a chance to talk,” asked Nate to Angela?

                “Yes, you have the paperwork secured,” asked Angela?

                “In my case locked up and ready to work on. Made a copy with my phone and have them emailed to you, me and our secured server. Got the confirmation receipt from our contractor and a copy went to Vince, he will start the investigation,” replied Nate.

                “Uh, this sounds like you guys have done this before,” asked Carl?

                “Simple protocol. We get a document; we want to ensure that it doesn’t get lost and we have easy access to it. Angela and I will go over the paperwork and when you come over tomorrow, we will let you know our thoughts. We might have something from Vince although I  would not count on it especially if this is a very intricate set up. I have a few friends over with the police that can put a special patrol in your neighborhood. That might discourage anyone from peeking in and trying to get some information or manufacturing a false narrative, said Nate.

                “All this from trying to help out a kid. I don’t want to live under police protection,” replied Carl.

                “Its not protection its deterrent. Remember no good deed goes unpunished. Myra and I are going to load up my car, I will run her fingerprints and DNA and we should get some results back in a few days,” said Nate.

                “Her DNA, fingerprints, how did you get that,” asked Carl?

                “Carl, I have been in this business for years. Do we ever talk about how I get my job done? There is a beautiful term called plausible deniability. For you ignorance is bliss and just go with that for right now,’ Nate stopped quickly as Myra exited her bedroom with the bag that contained the clothes that didn’t fit. “Ahh Myra, you did a great job getting those clothes in the bag, lets go ahead and put them in my car and then you and Papa can go ahead and have the rest of the day to have a good time. Maybe he will take you out for pizza and a frozen yogurt or to the mall and you both can shop around for something nice since you have been a great helper today to Angela and me,” asked Nate?

                “Great talking with you Myra and thanks for reminding me about the book I gave you, I hope you really enjoy it. I’ll see you tomorrow and we can talk more if you like, how about I bring something special for you, what would you like,” asked Angela?

                “Do you have any more law books for kids, I really enjoy reading those and learning. I want to be a doctor, but I like learning about law and helping people like you do,” replied Myra.

                “I think I have just what you are looking for around my house, I’ll bring it tomorrow and I may have a book on medicine for kids that may be great to read. Take care of your Papa today, make sure he gets to bed early tonight alright,” replied Angela.

                “I will Angie, love you Uncle Nate see you tomorrow,” said Myra as she waved to both Nate ad Angela as they went through the front door. “Papa are we really getting pizza and frozen yogurt today, is that why you were so forgetful?”

                “I knew you were going to be such a good helper today that I had planned on taking you out today and making it a special day for the both of us. Why don’t you get ready to go out and after we eat we can go to the mall and walk around. By the time we get back I am sure Cheryl will be here where treat for you,” said Carl.

                Myra squealed with delight and headed to her bedroom to change. Carl texted Cheryl their plans and gave her an approximate time they would be back at his apartment. He put a note in his phone to make another key for Cheryl to come and go as she pleased and texted her that he was getting her a key made for the apartment. She texted back ‘are you sure?’ and he replied yes.

                Carl went to his room and changed into some blue jeans and a t-shirt. He looked at his face in his dressing mirror and saw that he had not shaved in three days. The stubble was more pronounced than usual, and he liked the look that it gave him.

                “Papa I am ready,” said Myra standing near the front door.

                “Okay, I’ll be out in one minute,” replied Carl. He looked at his face one more time. “You can do this,” he said audibly to himself. 

To reach out to me, email [email protected] I would love to hear about your journey and what you are working on. If you would like to be on the show or have me discuss a topic that is giving you trouble write in and lets start that conversation.

• Email : [email protected]

WRITING AND PODCASTING A NOVEL 24 NOV 2020

Welcome friend to Create Art Podcast where we create more than we consume. I am Timothy Kimo Brien your thankful head instigator with over 20 years in arts and education helping you tame your inner critic and provide you with commentary, interviews, discussions, and projects that will inspire you to create art. This month I will be podcasting daily and writing a novel in 30 days. I am participating in NaPodPoMo and NaNoWriMo. You will be able to listen to what I wrote for the day and read it at the same time. I like to practice what I preach when it comes to art so I am challenging myself to write and having you come along for the ride. I hope this inspires you to accomplish your goals with your art and if you would like to share what you are doing email me at [email protected]

24 Nov 2020   1652  daily count 40193 cumulative count

                “Okay so what is going on, this already sounds weird,” said Nate.

                Carl sat at the desk and Nate pulled up a chair. Carl lowered his head and unlocked the drawer that contained the diary. He put it between himself and Nate.

                “First off I can’t let you read the diary. It has some curse on it and well Cheryl and I promised each other we would follow the instructions,” said Carl.

                “A cursed diary, what year is this, come on you have got to be kidding me. That diary probably has the information we need in it and you are trying to tell me we can’t use it because of some curse,” said Nate.

                “I know it is weird and sounds hookey, but stay with me on this, that girl knows things about us and is convinced that I adopted her a year ago. I can’t even look into the diary otherwise something bad is going to happen to me, Cheryl and maybe you guys. So, first things first. She told me I adopted her a year ago, look at this,” said Carl as he took out the birth certificate and adoption papers and handed them to Nate. Nate looked both documents over and put them down after reading the adoption papers. “Before you ask that is my signature, but I did not sign that paper”

                “Okay, a signature can be forged,” said Nate.

                “If you know whose signature you are forging. Before yesterday I talked to her dad one time to tell him where the bathroom was at the coffee shop. I have never seen the guy before and he Cheryl is at the coffee shop and has not seen him since,” said Carl.

                “Maybe Myra can forge signatures,” said Nate.

                “Maybe she can pick locks because I found this this morning with my signature on it. I was up until 2 in the morning making the first entry into the diary and it wasn’t in there, then this morning she tells me about the adoption, and to remind me she tells me to grab the diary and get the paperwork, and there it is. I slept on the couch last night and Cheryl slept in my room. Now Myra was there at 5:30 when I woke up starting at me while I slept, I put her to bed, and I got another hour of sleep. Is that long enough to forge my signature and then pick a lock and place the documents in a diary, lock it back up and then tell me about it,” asked Carl?

                “That is extremely hard to imagine, she is only nine years old. Do you think this is a father daughter team trying to get money from you,” asked Nate?

                “Well I am not made of money that is for sure, I mean the divorce took a huge chunk out of my savings and this is not the most elegant of places, I mean it’s a three bedroom two bathroom apartment. You know my net worth and how much I make a year, if someone was going to get rich why wouldn’t they do this to you, I mean you are raking in over a million a year, I am just cracking one hundred grand,” said Carl.

                “Okay so it is not money, what about revenge, anyone want to make your life hell, maybe your ex,” asked Nate?

                “Well you handled my divorce, we were on very good terms and she is in the will so she will be taken care of when I do die. I doubt she would do anything to jeopardize that,” replied Carl.

                “Anyone else that you know of that has a beef with you, maybe one of her relatives,” asked Nate?

                “She was an only child, and her family sends me cards to this very day for the holidays,” said Carl.

                “Okay I am not an investigator but naturally we have one that works for the firm, we will get him involved with this. I must be suspicious of everyone, its kinda my nature to think the worst of everyone. What about Cheryl, she is relatively new in your life, could she be part of this,” asked Nate?

                “Don’t think so, I have known her for a few years now, she knows I am not rich, and I don’t think she is the type. Right now, I am freaked out because Myra is calling me Papa, you are the only one that knows that I like the sound of that. I did tell Cheryl after the fact, but other than the conversation we had no one knew that I wanted to be called papa. There are some other things that have happened that make me believe this curse thing though,” said Carl.

                “Okay what are they,” asked Nate?

                “Well one of the names of the signers of the book is an old jazz musician, well his music has come up a few times on my cable music channel. I never heard of the guy but there it is. I don’t think anyone has that much control over what they play, if they do this s a very intricate hoax. Also, when you came in Myra talked about a book that Angela gave her, what do you know about that,” asked Carl?

                “Nothing, I’ll have to ask her about that privately,” said Nate.

                “Okay another thing is that Myra knows the names of your kids, Cheryl doesn’t know that information and Cheryl didn’t know you until yesterday. So I really don’t think she has anything to do with this, but lets be careful about investigating Myra and her past. It could cause something bad to happen with the curse,” said Carl.

                 “You are really making this hard since I can’t even look at the diary or read the contents. If you would let me I am sure we can get this resolved,” replied Nate.

                “I can’t risk it, I wish I could say more but I feel that I may be saying to much as is,” said Carl nervously.

                “What did you get yourself into,” asked Nate?

                “I am not sure, but I could use as much help as you can give me. Right now I am afraid to talk to Myra because she may say something that freaks me out even more, but then how can I help her if I can’t talk to her, you are the one with parenting experience,” said Carl.

                “Nothing in Dr Spock’s book about this that’s for sure,” said Nate. The brothers were silent for a time, Nate looking over the adoption papers again and Carl looking down at the diary.

                “Is there anything else you want me to know,” asked Nate?

                “That is all I can think about for right now. Do you want us to come over this weekend or not, I totally understand if you say no,” said Carl?

                “No come on over on Saturday. I don’t think me or my family are in any real danger. We will keep an eye on Myra when she comes over. Maybe this girl is just super psychic or something. Let’s go out and see where Angela and Myra are up to. You can make it through this, Myra may just return to normal by tomorrow and we can all have a private laugh over this curse thing,” said Nate. He stood up and held onto the adoption papers and birth certificate. Carl stood up with him and went to the door.

                “This is happening right,” asked Carl?

                “This is reality, but you look like you might need some sleep. Weird things always happen in a custody situation. We always find information at the last minute and maybe the father, if he even is her father, will come back when he has come to his senses,” said Nate.

                “I hope so, this is really screwing up my world,” said Carl.

                “Try having two kids and a law practice, that will screw up your perception of reality,” said Nate. They both walked into the living room and headed toward the kitchen when Angela and Myra were talking.

                “Papa, Angela forgot about the adoption as well, are you all feeling okay,” said Myra?

                Nate looked at Carl and then at Angela. He mouthed the words its okay play along.

                “That was a long time ago sweetheart. Did you have a good talk with Angela,” asked Nate?

                “Yes, but she forgot that she gave me the book right before the adoption. See here it is with her writing in it,” said Myra as she held up a book for Nate to see. He took the book from her hands and read the inscription which matched Angela’s handwriting.

                “Never mind that, are you excited about coming over tomorrow and playing in the yard. I think we will have everyone come over by noon if you are available Angela,” Nate asked?

                “Yes indeed I wouldn’t miss it for the world. Nate, when you get a chance,” asked Angela?

                “One step ahead of you. Now Myra, I have some really cool toys for you in the car, did you try on those clothes I brought by yesterday,” asked Nate?

                “Yes, Cheryl and I put the ones that are too small in a pile and the ones that fit we put away and the ones that are too big we put in the closet for when I grow into them,” replied Myra.

                “Great, lets get the ones that were too small, you and me, and lets put them in the car and then we can get the toys out of my car for you and bring them in how does that sound,” asked Nate?

                “Okay lets go,” said Myra.

                Carl grabbed a fresh cup of coffee and pulled out a cup for Angela.

                “Can I interest you in some,” asked Carl?

                “Yes, please, black would be fine,” replied Angela.

To reach out to me, email [email protected] I would love to hear about your journey and what you are working on. If you would like to be on the show or have me discuss a topic that is giving you trouble write in and lets start that conversation.

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WRITING AND PODCASTING A NOVEL 23 NOV 2020

Welcome friend to Create Art Podcast where we create more than we consume. I am Timothy Kimo Brien your thankful head instigator with over 20 years in arts and education helping you tame your inner critic and provide you with commentary, interviews, discussions, and projects that will inspire you to create art. This month I will be podcasting daily and writing a novel in 30 days. I am participating in NaPodPoMo and NaNoWriMo. You will be able to listen to what I wrote for the day and read it at the same time. I like to practice what I preach when it comes to art so I am challenging myself to write and having you come along for the ride. I hope this inspires you to accomplish your goals with your art and if you would like to share what you are doing email me at [email protected]

23 Nov 2020  1799   daily count 38541 cumulative count

                “How can that be your signature, you didn’t know her until yesterday. We followed the instructions. Wait what was that stuff about the musician, do you think that caused things to shift,” asked Cheryl?

                “I am not sure; I think we may play along until Nate gets here and we can sort this out. For now, we just eat breakfast, do not talk about the adoption or the birth certificate. You grab breakfast, get your stuff from your apartment and head to work. I’ll see what Nate has to say about all of this,” said Carl.

                They both walked back into the living room and saw Myra eating her omelets as if nothing had happened. They sat down with her and started to eat their breakfast silently. Carl refilled Cheryl’s coffee three times as she added nothing to her beverage. Myra was smiling as she looked at Carl and Cheryl silently eating.

                “I can’t wait to go to Uncle Nates house this weekend. I love playing in his backyard, it is so big and fun. Do you think Marvin and Shelly will be able to play, I know they have homework and practice on the weekends but I like playing with the big kids,” asked Myra?

                “How do you know,” Carl started to ask?

                “I am sure they will love playing with you as much as I do, now finish up your breakfast, I need to make a list of things you need before I leave for work. I’ll get them on my way back okay. Carl and Nate and Angela have a big day for you planned,” said Cheryl cutting off Carl.

                Myra finished her omelet and took her cup and plate to the sink and stood by Cheryl to wait for her to finish. Cheryl back away from the table and looked directly at Carl.

                “Okay so lets get you dressed for today, I think that purple dress will look great on you what do you think,” asked Cheryl?

                “Yes the purple dress, that would be the perfect outfit for you, I’ll get into my suit when I am done, thanks for reminding us,” replied Carl acknowledging that he had the same dream of Myra in a purple dress.

                “That is my favorite dress Cheryl, good idea. It’s the one I wore at the adoption ceremony, remember the judge said it looked great papa,” asked Myra?

                “Uhm yeah, lets get you all set up. I’ll do the dishes for everyone you gals go get ready,” replied Carl. He was fully into the game with Cheryl at this point, at least until he could talk with Nate. The women left to go into Myra’s “new” bedroom as Carl picked up the plates and began washing them in the sink. He was feeling very ill and confused. He had not mentioned Nates childrens names, yet Myra knew them and that they had weekend practice. A fear crept into his mind about being alone with Myra and what other things she would mention that she should not know. He dreaded the time between when Cheryl would leave and when Nate would arrive. Playing the game of forgetful father didn’t suit him because he wasn’t forgetful or was he? He began to doubt hat he knew was right and didn’t want to sink into the story that Myra was telling him to deeply as one of his symptoms of the tumor was he would eventually lose all grip on reality. It felt like when he woke up during an episode and could not move. Of course, he feared another episode would occur while waiting for Nate and this could lead to him not being allowed to care for Myra.

                As he was pondering all these scenarios a text came through on his phone. It buzzed four times indicating it was from Nate. He read the text that stated Nate and Angela were heading over and their ETA was about thirty minutes. This gave him some relief; he would not have to be alone for a long time with Myra. Cheryl and Myra came out of her “new” bedroom and both were smiling. Myra wore the purple dress in his dream and he started to smile. Cheryl went back to his bedroom and gathered her overnight bag and brough it to the front door. They all stood there admiring the dress and complimenting her on how it looked.

                “Okay time for you to get dressed Papa, make sure to wear the black suit, it looks really good and professional,” said Myra.

                “Give me a few minutes with Cheryl okay, and lets not get the dress dirty,” replied Carl. He took Cheryl’s hand and led her into the office.

                “Nate should be here with Angela in about thirty minutes. He just texted me. I am not feeling good about this at all, what if I did forget and tell her all of this stuff, what if I put the paperwork in the diary. I am really questioning reality right now,” said Carl softly.

                “You are not imagining this, I doubt you did this to yourself. There is an explanation somewhere in all of this, Nate and Angela will be able to help sort it out. Stay frosty okay, I’ll be back later this evening and we can talk more. You are going to be okay. If you need anything you have my cell number in your phone, give me a call or drop by the shop. If the dad comes back I’ll let you know but I doubt that will happen. You are okay. Tonight you do need to get some sleep, no black coffee for you after noon okay,” said Cheryl. She hugged him before she went back to the living room.

                “Okay kiddo, I have to go to work, now Nate and Angela are coming over in about thirty minutes and when you are done with them maybe I can grab you something from the shop. Is there anything you would like,” asked Cheryl to Myra.

                “Oh the usual,” replied Myra.

                Cheryl looked puzzled for a moment then remembered that she was playing along. “I forget, what do I usually get you. Us adults always forgetting important things,” replied Cheryl.

                “Chocolate milk and a chocolate chip muffin please. It has always been my favorite. Are you getting forgetful like Papa? I know he is old but you aren’t” said Myra.

                “I just didn’t sleep well last night, I’ll grab the stuff on the list and get you your treat. Be good and look after him okay and tell Uncle Nate I said hello,” said Cheryl. She hugged Myra as she grabbed her overnight bag and went out the door.  

                Carl looked at the clock on the coffee maker, it read nine. Nate and Angela would be here in less than thirty minutes. He had no idea what a nine-year-old girl would like to do for thirty minutes, much less a girl like Myra who was either part of a prank or a centuries old curse. He went to his bedroom and pulled out his black suit, the one he was wearing in the dream. The same one he wore at his divorce proceedings. He knew this would not kill a bunch of time, he decided to put on the TV for Myra.

                “How about some cartoons for you before Nate and Angela come over, watch which ever ones you want,” said Carl.

                Myra sat on the couch as Carl brought her the remote control.

                “Can I have on the music channel instead. I’d like to read my book while listening,” replied Myra.                Carl turned on the TV which already had the jazz station playing. A song by Grover Bechet started playing. This brough chills down Carl’s spine. Myra opened he book and started reading to herself.

                “Do you want to listen to some other channel, maybe pop music or kids music,” asked Carl hoping to switch the station?

                “No this is fine, remember I like this trumpet player, he has a funny name, Grover, just like on Sesame Street.                 You better get dressed for Uncle Nate, he should be here soon,” replied Myra.

                “Oh that’s right, that’s the song I played for you on the way to the adoption meeting with the judge,” Carl said.

                “No, that was My favorite things from John Coltrane, the one that lasts forever with the flute solo in the middle. That is your favorite song of all time. I remember because the drive to the adoption meeting took us a long time to get to. You played it for me as a good luck charm. Gosh Papa are you feeling okay,” asked Myra?

                “Oh yeah just a little tired, let me go ahead and get changed, “said Carl playing along. No one knew or if they did no one remembered his favorite song was John Coltrane in Brussels with Eric Dolphy, but Myra recited it off like it was no big deal. He went into his room and did not want to come out again. Slowly he dressed himself and when he heard the knock at the door it brought him back to reality.

                He went straight to the door without acknowledging Myra. Another song was playing, a song other than Grover Bechet or John Coltrane that he did not recognize. He looked through the peep hole as he usually did and saw Nate with Angela waiting for him to open the door. Opening it he rushed Nate and Angela in.

                “Good morning you two, Myra is ready to talk with you Angela, Nate can you talk to me in the office,” asked Carl?

                “Hello Myra, how are you doing today, that is a pretty dress,” said Angela softly to Myra?

                “I am doing great. Papa made cheese omelets and I was just sitting and reading the book you gave me at the adoption meeting last year,” replied Myra.

                “I’m not sure we have met before dear; I work with Nate at the law firm. What book is it that you have there,” said Angela. She made a puzzled look towards Nate and Carl.

                “Nate, can I talk with you in the office, Angela I am sure you and Myra have a lot to talk about, you don’t mind if Nate and I step out for a minute right,” asked Carl?

                “No not at all, and yes Myra and I do have a lot to talk about. Can we turn off the TV and sit at the kitchen table,” replied Angela playing along.

                “Go right ahead, Nate and I will be back in a few minutes,” said Carl as he pulled Nate into the office. Angela and Myra sat at the table as Nate and Carl went directly to the office and shut the door.

To reach out to me, email [email protected] I would love to hear about your journey and what you are working on. If you would like to be on the show or have me discuss a topic that is giving you trouble write in and lets start that conversation.

• Email : [email protected]