Antostudio.com                       Aino Anto Illustration

 
Many, like Hubert, have wondered where the lost socks go.

Few have been as singleminded in their zeal to recover one when they DO figure it out.

Warren eyed  the roomy shoes under the tree.  They looked like a fit, and the boots he was leaving in exchange were well-made and comfortable.  They were also trouble.  He couldn't wait to get rid of them and be off. 

Warren settled the boots softly in the grass behind the tree and holding his breath,  reached for the first shoe...

ideas at the very roughest thumbnail stage

Anyone with a cat knows their mysterious ways, the secret smile in the morning after who-knows-what adventures outside. 

Memories of summer's freedoms far from the city include long days where we could explore and make mischief so long as we did not hurt ourselves or anyone else.

When friends bring plans and skills together, great things happen - among them PIE!!

Appetite arrives, pies all ready to bake, where's the baker?

What do we have to promise to get this guy on board?

I'll help you but first  - I want to go over... there!  (And all it will take is a steady hand and a Converse someone can spare for a little while).

Just what the baker ordered!

Enjoying the pie .... and the breeze. 

Exhausted and alone, Carol falls asleep on a neighbour's sofa just days before Christmas in the 50s. (A Christmas for Carol, by Len Gasparini, Seraphim Editions 2002)

Outside, her new friend shoots pucks in the laneway.

It's hard to be enthusiastic about the season of giving when there's nothing in your pocket.

Still, good friends make cheerful moments.