Chapter Two

Just Trying to Breathe

"Carol, you just don't understand!  I feel like a large marshmallow that is starting to melt." I moaned to my best friend.   We have been neighbors for over five years and she has been a godsend to me.  All women need someone else, of the same sex, to relate with.  

"Anna, I thought you had sworn off using the "f" word.  You know--feelings!." Carol started to laugh, enjoying my crisis at home way to much in my opinion.

"Alright, alright, go ahead and laugh; I'm glad this brings you joy to your day.  I better go, the morning is already gone and I have to send this chapter in to my publisher."

"Call me when it's finished and I'll bring the cookies over."  I hung up the phone and stared at the computer.  Really, I need to unplug the phone when I'm working; but I love talking to Carol.  It's just nice to be able to "talk" to someone and not have to measure my words all of the time.  Okay--okay back to this chapter.

Francine looked into his eyes and wondered if anything was actually there.  Sometimes I feel like  all men are statues with marble eyes.  She sighed and turned her head; anxious for him to leave.  "Well don't let me keep you please, I know you have a long evening's ride ahead of you."  He left and she sighed a breath of relief.  Sometimes it was good just to be able to breath.

I can really identify with Francine on that one.  Anna pressed save on the computer and shut it down.  Turning around she noticed a book on cd by Darelene Wilkinson entitled, "Secrets of the Vine for Women."  I wonder when I picked this up.  She found her portable cd player and put in the first disc. 

"If you want to learn how to live an abundant life through Christ; then this book is for you."

"Just what I needed for today," sighed Anna.  She curled up in her favorite chair, wrapped a blanket around her, and just took a breath.  Chapter One.......