Move- Chapter 12

January 11, 2018January 10, 2018michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

I know I know, I did it again…the dreaded hiatus. It happens. What are ya gonna do. 😉

We’re Back though…so get ready for some new Liam & Aria Romance Drama!

MOVE poster

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 11 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

A black sleek car pulls up to Whitmore Ink, and comes to a stop.

Aria gets out of the car, as Liam steps out of the other side walking around to meet her.

“So, I’ll see you at lunch?” he says taking her hands in his and bringing them up to his lips, he places a kiss on them.

“Yes, I have a break between Zumba sessions so… definitely,” she says smiling up at him as he places a kiss on her lips. “I had a really nice time.”

“Me too,” he says smiling brightly. “I’ll see you in a bit love,” he says beginning to walk away.

Aria grabs his hand, causing him to stop and turn back.

“Liam, I just wanted to say I’m sorry about earlier. To be quite honest, I just wasn’t letting myself think clearly. I wasn’t expecting to have this insane connection to you. I know my putting the brakes on us, while also throwing myself at you, was probably really confusing. I just saw how fast things were moving and we barely know each other… I don’t even know if I’m making any sense. You must think I’m such a tease.”

“I think you’re perfect.” He says walking over to her and lifting her chin, placing a sweet peck on her lips.

Aria laughs, “Oh I’m far from it, trust me.”

“Not from where I’m standing, love,” he says letting his eyes give her a very obvious once over, he smirks.

“Ugh that look is going to get us into trouble,” she whispers, pulling him by his collar into a deep kiss.
Pulling away their eyes lock.

“So about that dinner date…” she says smiling, he smirks as he places a kiss on her cheek.

“Tonight?” he asks.

“Pick me up at 8,” she says her smile sparkling as she walks away toward her gym, reaching for her cell phone in her pocket.

Liam’s gaze lingers after her as a smile forms on his lips, he enters the corporate building, with Aria on his mind.

***

“Hello?” Yolanda answers as she grabs her work bag, dressed in a pair of light blue scrubs.

“Hey Yoyo,” Aria says her voice smiling.

“Oh thank god, your alive!” she says exhaling.

“I’m fine, I told you, he’s a good guy.”

“Yea well you can’t blame me for worrying, there are crazy people in this world.”

“I know…thank you for always watching out for me.”

“Of course. So how was last night, did you keep things…reserved?”

“Slightly,” she says a girly giggle in her tone.

“Oh boy,” Yolanda says as she puts her jacket on, and heads out the door.

“We still didn’t do anything…”

“You know what… it’s none of my business.”

“Yolanda don’t be that way! I’m serious nothing happened. I mean it could have happened, it was really close to happening, but it didn’t.”

“I just hope that you know what your doing.”

“Yolanda.”

“I’m serious Aria. As great of a guy as he seems, you are moving into this thing way too quick. What happened to not having time for a boyfriend because of your showcase? And yet in a matter of a few weeks you meet this guy and all of that goes out the window.”

“I’m still working on my showcase, Yoyo. I won’t let this interfere with something I’ve been working toward for so long.”

“I hope so.”

“Yolanda…”

“Look I gotta go, don’t forget the hospital fundraiser I’m hosting is tonight, it starts at 8, your coming right?”

Aria stops walking as she remembers. “Oh…um…yes, of course. Yes I’ll be there.”

“You forgot didn’t you? I told you about this months ago.”

“I know, I know and I will be there. I promise.”

“Ok, good. I’ll see you later then, bye.”

“Bye.” Aria sighs as she walks into the gym for her first Zumba lesson of the day.

***

A bunch of empty Styrofoam containers and napkins get pushed off a desk and fall onto the floor.

Aria laughs as Liam lifts her up onto his desk, his lips covering hers.

“I’m pretty sure your staff is wondering why I’m still coming here even though I don’t work here anymore,” Aria says laughing against his smirk.

“And it’s none of their business, love,” he says pulling her closer to him.

Aria kisses him, cupping his face.

“So listen- about tonight, I-“

“Oh yes, love, I need to talk to you about that too.”

“I’m going to have to take a rain check,” they both say in unison followed by a few laughs.

“I just realized, I promised my cousin I’d go with her to this fundraiser at her hospital. It’s really important to her, and I want to be there for her.”

Liam laughs, “I’ll be there as well, love.”

Aria looks at him confused for a beat.

“I go every year. But something tells me, this has to be your first? Because I know I would have noticed you, love.”

Aria laughs, “This will be my first, my cousin is part of the planning committee this year. You know now that you mention it she did say you usually sponsor the event.”

“Hmm, I guess we’ll end up seeing each other tonight after all, love,” he says his eyes locking on hers as he moves in closer to her.

“Lucky us,” Aria says her eyes sparkling.

“Lucky me,” he says kissing her passionately.

His cell phone begins to ring, as he takes it out of his pocket, the name “Mum” flashing across the screen.

Liam stops and hesitates.

Aria looks up at him, “Do you need to get that?” she says her eyes glazing over to his phone.

“It’s my Mum, if I don’t answer, I’ll never hear the end of it.”

“Oh. Ok,” Aria says sliding off the table.

“I’m sorry love,” he says placing a peck on her lips, as he answers his phone.

Aria sits there, slightly awkward, as Liam walks off to the side.

Aria straightens her clothes out, and fixes her lip-gloss, as Liam continues to talk business and numbers with his mother.

Waving her hand at Liam, mouthing the words, “I’m gonna go,” Aria stands by the door, feeling uncomfortable.

Liam notices, and frowns, “Mum, hold on one moment please…” he says putting his phone down, and rushing over to Aria, “I’m sorry love, I -“

“It’s ok,” she says smiling.

“I’ll see you tonight?”

“Yes you will,” she says as he kisses her, cupping his face Aria deepens their kiss, as his hands circle around her waist.

Aria smiles as she wipes his lips with her thumb, removing her lip-gloss from his lips, as he chuckles.

While she leaves his office, Liam’s eyes follow her, a smile playing on his lips.

Aria waves at a smiling Anne and a very intrigued Marco who’s eyes dart between Aria’s retreating figure and Liam’s closing door.

Liam picks up his phone, “Hello Mum,”

“Who were you talking to, it sounded like a woman.”

“It was a woman Mum, I do work with women.”

“It sounded like a personal conversation…are you seeing someone and lying to your dear ole Mum about it.”

“Mum, I have to jump into a meeting right now, I’ll see you later at the event…love you, bye.”

Liam rushes off the phone as he releases a sigh. A smile forming as he touches his lips, thinking of Aria, his eyes glancing over his mess of an office.

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Cheers to 5 Years! Happy Birth-a-versary!

January 8, 2018January 7, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

I baked some red velvet cupcakes just to celebrate a bit!

Let’s take a look back…

5 YEARS AGO I posted my first blog post here on michelle leigh writes…

Hey there…and welcome ❤
January 8, 2013

I guess I should introduce myself. I’m Michelle and I’m going to be writing for you. Writing is something that I’ve always enjoyed. It’s difficult to put one’s writing out into the world and have others read and speculate and generally speaking, critique your inner most thoughts. I’m very modest about my writing and often get nervous to share it with others, but this year I’ve promised myself that I would start changing that. I know, I know, once the new year strikes often many of us make promises we know we can’t keep…or won’t keep. But starting a blog has always been on my radar and I’ve always made excuses not to do it, but not this year. This year it’s happening. So if this blog speaks to you please read along, if not no hard feelings. But all I ask is to let this be a safe place for the written word. I’m not claiming to be an award winning writer, I’m just a girl with a lot of heart, who has A LOT of thoughts like I’m sure many of you do. Thoughts that may serve better being read then being cooped up in a journal. Who knows maybe you’ll find that someone else understands you. Here’s to writing! and Happy Reading Folks! -xoxo Michelle Leigh

To say that as I’m reading these words today, and I still feel a strong connection to their meaning is amazing. For the most part, I’ve overcome the fear of posting my work for strangers. Not that the fear is no longer there, I still find it difficult at times, but I continue to do it anyway. Sometimes I still worry what others who know me may think if they read my blog. If a family member or friend reads it, what will they think of me? Like- oh SHE wrote THIS? I know people may think of me a certain way and then they may read a “scandalous” scene in one of my short stories and think wait what? Ew. Lol. But I can only be true to my writer’s heart and to the characters I create in my stories. At the root my stories are all about love, friendship, family. Things that make life worth living.

Below are all the celebratory birthday/anniversary posts over the past 4 years…

“Secret” Society, “Resolutions”, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! + (My 1st VLOG)

Happy Birthday or Happy Anniversary?

Dear 2016, + Happy 3rd Anniversary!

Happy 4th!!!!!!!

In 5 years, I’ve managed to form a post schedule, share poetry, short stories, fangirl experiences, music and movie reviews, fashion, lifestyle, female empowerment, party planning tips and Writing experience/tips, with you. I’ve given you my heart for 5 years and it has been such an important part of my life. And I’m really glad that my motto, “A safe place for the written word,” still holds true for me. Because this blog has really been my writer’s outlet.

We’ve gotten to explore different writing styles, I’ve posted vlogs/videos, and I even have social media accounts for this blog now too. Come and follow along, talk to me! 😀

Social Media Links:

Twitter

Facebook Page

Instagram

It’s crazy to me that it’s been 5 years!

I’m excited for the future. For the new characters you’ll meet and the new poems that will come together and if you are reading this or have read any of my blog posts, I thank you for your support. I know that I may not have thousands of readers, or comments, but that doesn’t matter to me. What matters to me is that for those who do read along, or manage to stumble upon my blog, that they take something from it. That they find something in it that they can relate to. I hope you continue reading! And I hope to continue to grow this blog with all my heart.

Happy Birthday/Happy Anniversary or (Happy Birthaversary) if you will,

michelle leigh writes!

(I still don’t know what to call it!) 😉

Again THANK YOU, thank you!

See you Thursday- with an *ALL NEW* Chapter of Move!

MOVE poster

-<3-

2018 Inspiration and Planning Ideas

January 4, 2018January 4, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

I’m a planner and I love to know what’s ahead of me. Granted, I realize that’s not always possible, but having some vague plan in mind, tends to lessen my anxiety so I go with it.

Closeup image of notepad with pen.

I recently bought myself a new planner. Nothing fancy, as much as I love how they have all the stickers and the sticky notes and all that, I just don’t think I would actually use them. So I just went to my local Walgreens and picked up a Blue Sky, monthly/weekly planner.

When I start to plan for the new year, the first thing I like to do is reflect on the year that just passed. As you can see in my- 2017 Memory Jar Review post.

I go back through my memory jar, my instagram posts and my blog posts and see what I accomplished. I also review my goals list and check off the things I accomplished, and narrow in on the things I still want/need to work on, or continue to implement.

Because even if I did accomplish a specific goal in 2017, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t carry over into 2018. For instance like personal growth- and working on my anxiety, that’s a goal that’s on going, bettering my mental and physical health is always a goal every year, as it should be.

After I reflect, I review my old goal list, and check off, or add to it. And then eventually I’ll probably make a new list.

After that I will look at the many many things on my list and realize that it is VERY overwhelming!

So this year I’ve decided that from that big list I will pick 4-8 things that I want to ABSOLUTELY accomplish this year. And so that way my brain knows what it needs to focus on. Categories can help- so for instance- Health/Self-care, Relationships, Career.

After that, this is where my planner comes into play.

I like these planners (Blue Sky) because they have the monthly calendar and then the weekly where you can write in things per day.

However in hindsight, I usually end up needing more space, no matter what. So I’ll either use post-its or a separate sheet of paper/notebook or notepad for daily To-Do Lists or if something I’m working on needs a little more planning.

I’m debating getting just a desperate notebook for To-Do Lists, because I feel like I make them so often, I end up with all these sheets of paper all over. So we shall see.

It’s only January, things are definitely going to change as we go along.

I’ve started to do like weekly to do lists, and goals, and also I think eventually I may try monthly. Let’s be real January is a total hangover month. I’m still on 2017 time, so everything is trial and error at this point for me.

And that’s totally okay, because you don’t need a new year, to make a change. I kind of feel like I implemented some new things into my life last year around fall time, because I felt inspired to do so with the new school year starting up again. So you can always renew, revamp, and reflect. There are no rules.

Last year I said my “mantra word” was CHANGE, and ALOT changed around me, and I adapted and am continuing to do so, and although I feel I made some changes for myself too, I want to continue to grow and change on my own this year as well. However, I’m going to add another word to my mantra this year and that is DETERMINATION. There are certain things I want to do, that are big, BIG CHANGES I want to make in my life, and in order to do them, I’m going to need that fire, that determination. So I’m going to aim to up that factor in my life this year, because let’s be real, we all get in our lazy funks. It’s winter after all, and there’s a huge snow storm outside. So nothing says “it can wait til tomorrow…” more. But here I am trying to stick to my Monday/Thursday posting schedule anyway, while the tv is calling my name- waiting for me to catch up on all the shows I’ve missed over the past few weeks. Determination, Michelle, DETERMINATION.

Another thing I find that inspires me is looking up videos on YouTube. Some of those ladies make the most inspirational planning videos! And they just give you the pep you need to get planning.

I’ll link a few below, that I’ve watched this year for inspiration. I’ve definitely pulled from them when doing my planning.

I also like to have a visual to display so that I can see it. I never shared last years with you-(it was just a bunch of fun images with the word CHANGE), but after a while, it ended up getting buried in a corner of my room when I was reorganizing, but it’s back up and I’m going to add one near it to display images of my 2018 MAIN GOALS and the word DETERMINATION!

vision board 2018

***

So to review the steps I use to plan:

Step 1: Reflect on the past year

Step 2: Review 2017 Goal List/Write a New One

Step 3: Narrow Goals Down (to the most important you want to focus on)

Step 4: Buy/Use a planner/To-Do List (to keep track of everything)

Step 5: Find inspiration (if you need help planning your goals)

Step 6: Choose your mantra word (the theme for your year)

Step 7: Create a vision board (to keep visible as a reminder of your goals for this year)

Step 8: Breathe & Believe in yourself ❤

MY MAIN BIG GOALS FOR 2018

*Get healthier- mentally/physically/emotionally

*Take the next step in my career

*Save money for my best friend’s wedding festivities!

*Get my permit/take driver’s ed (yes I know I’m way behind on this, in life- but hey I live in NY, technically- I don’t NEED to drive) 😉

*Work on relationships

*Self-publish a body of work (not on this blog, but elsewhere)

*Write my Pilot episode

Now that I have this locked down, I can go through and plan how to accomplish each one, step by step. I haven’t done that just yet, but…I will. The year is new, the year is young.

Happy 2018! Now let’s crush it! ❤

Tell me how you plan for your year ahead in the comments below, and if you have any other YouTubers you find inspiring!

-<3-

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edit or otherwise.*

2017 Memory Jar Review

January 1, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

HAPPY NEW YEAR FRIENDS!!!

As I reflect on 2017, sifting through my memory jar, my Instagram and my blog posts, I realize SO MUCH happened this year. At the start of the year I made a vision board that I framed. It was made of just cool funky colors and images to match my room, but it also had one main word in the center and that word was CHANGE. I wanted to change and work on so many things and I wanted to make that word my mantra. As someone who fears change, I wanted 2017 to be the year I embraced it. And even though I had my ups and downs, my tearful breakdowns, my stressed out moments, and I lost a very special person- My Grandma very early on in 2017, I still managed to make some incredible memories.

I’d I have to say that I rose to the occasion and embraced change. I changed. And this year I’m hoping to continue to change. To better myself, my life, my relationships and my career.

So here are My 2017 Highlights.

(in no particular order-but categorized)

*FAMILY/FRIENDS*

-I rung in 2017 with my dad’s side of the family- my parents, my cousins, my aunt, and my grandparents. We even got to skype my brother and sister in law who were on their honeymoon in Hawaii at the time. I dressed up, made glitter cups, ate fun finger foods, and lit up sparklers as we had an impromptu dance party outside. It was a blast. It was in fact the last Holiday I got to spend with my Grandmother before she passed in February. I’m glad my family got to have that time together. It was also a huge family reunion when she passed, family and friends from all over came to be together. Although such a sad time, it was beautiful to see how much love there is and how many people wanted to share in honoring her life. Read more about that journey HERE.

-Many family dinners, my brother hosted a few holidays at his new house- memorial day, mother’s day, father’s day, Christmas 2017, and New Year’s! My mom also hosted a few family dinners too. A lot of time spent with my immediate family. ❤

-I became a Titi. (In Spanish it means Aunt.) My sister in law and brother found out they were expecting their first child, so we got to be apart of the baby kicks and all that, I even got to sit in on one of their sonogram visits! We were all there for the birth and for hospital visits and for her Welcome Home. We also got to be with her for her first Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year! She’s precious. I’m obsessed.

-My family/friends welcomed a few new babies- my cousin’s baby girl, my brother and sister in law’s baby (my niece!!!!), and one of my oldest friends- Kate’s baby boy.

-I attended special occasions like, my little cousin’s first birthday- it was a mickey mouse clubhouse theme!, my best friend Roe’s engagement party (where I was asked to be one of her maid of honors), I also went for several bridesmaids dresses, and got to see both my best friend’s in their wedding dresses during their hunt for the perfect dress! Attended my other best friend Jenny’s shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner and wedding, where I was her maid of honor and my other friend Kate’s wedding/baby shower and her wedding!

-Took a Zumba class.

-I caught up with some friends I haven’t seen in a while!

-Had a few girls nights/day in/out. Got to see my best friend Jenny’s new place. Had lunch with my mom and my best friend and her mom. Met up with a high school friend a few times, had some sushi and froyo with some work friends, and went to visit with old middle school friends.

-I dragged my Aunt and my mom to the Mermaid Parade, in the rain and we ended up having a blast! Of course I dressed up!

-I got to see my two little girl cousins in their Talent Show, my other boy cousin in his school play where he played Mufasa in Lion King Jr. and my God Daughter’s first dance recital!!! I love going to creative things like that, they are so inspirational. And I always end up tearing up. I love art!

-I read milk & honey.

-I went to the Polar Express again!

-My cousin moved back from Florida for a few months. So I got to see him, and it was nice because he hasn’t been home for that long in a long time.

-Had a fun park day with my God daughter and her baby brother.

-I spent the 4th of July at home with some family, we had food outside and then went on our roof to watch fireworks.

-I got to treat my mom to another play- this time I took her to see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and then I took her to Olive Garden.

-My family and I went to this old neighborhood amusement park we used to go to as kids, and we played mini golf and I beat my brother! HA! 😉

-Had a fun Beach Day with my mom, cousins, and Aunt. I only made it to the beach once that summer, but at least it was once!

*WORK*

-Started doing holiday/festive themed bulletin boards for my classes to display their Creative Writing work.

-My job hosted a Talent Show and my class did a skit called “School Struggles,” and they did so good!

-I got a bunch of last day of Summer cards from kids I work with. The word around my co-workers was I got the most. 😉 I was kind of super flattered and I felt all warm and fuzzy inside! 🙂

-A few movie projects were completed by my kids in my Film Making class.

-Chaperoned a few trips- one was to see Captain Underpants (which was surprisingly really entertaining!) at this really cool theater with reclining comfy seats, blankets, pillows and food service! The other was to the Museum of Moving Image which was really cool! We even got a special viewing of Moana.

-My job hosted an end of the year carnival- with blowup rides, a photo booth, DJ, and a Taco truck…can you guys what was my favorite part—T-A-C-O!!!!

*BLOG*

–michelleleighwrites turned 4 years old!!!! (it turns 5 next week!!!!)

-I finished the short story series- Welcome Home! (Start the series from the beginning by clicking the title.)

-Started a new short story series MOVE (will be continued this year).

-Also posted two themed shorts- one for Halloween entitled RED THIRST & and the other for Christmas entitled A Husband for Christmas.

-I did BLOGMAS! (and posted to social media regularly.)

-Someone made “She Said” into a little video and sent me it, I found out it was also used as someone’s monologue.

-I created social media accounts for MLW!

^(Accounts are linked in the BLOGMAS RECAP! post.)

*TELEVISION/NETFLIX/MOVIES*

-I fell in love with Hallmark’s When Calls The Heart and #JACKANDELIZABETH

-I started watching Supergirl

–Stranger Things & Fuller House released new seasons and they are killing the game!

-That’s So Raven got a Reboot- Raven’s Home– the nostalgia is real! Raven and Chelsea still crack me up!

–Will & Grace got a Reboot as well, and they haven’t changed a bit!

-Got hooked on and binged Scream the TV series

-Also got hooked on Riverdale…and fell in love with a new ship- #BUGHEAD

-Bethany Joy Lenz was in a new film on Lifetime- Snowed Inn Christmas, and my best friend Roe and I watched it during our “Best Friend Christmas” tradition we have every year where we get together and exchange our gifts and watch a Christmas movie and drink hot chocolate and Sangria while munching on snacks. And let me tell you this movie was AWESOME! It had everything- Christmas magic, humor, romance, heart, a handsome guy, and our girl Joy! Duh? 😉

-I found a bunch of good movies on Netflix!

*MUSIC*

-Bruno Mars “24 K Magic” Album (songs rolled over into 2017)

-Ed Sheeran “Divide” Album

-Sam Smith “The Thrill of it All” Album

-New Selena Gomez Music

-Demi Lovato’s “Tell Me You Love Me” Album

-TAYLOR SWIFT “Reputation” ALBUM!!!!!! (And Music Videos)

*PERSONAL/PARTY PLANNING*

-I fell in love with lighting candles, and wearing big comfy sweaters, which if you know me I used to shy away from because scents and fear of overheating myself would cause my anxiety to spike. I know that sounds like a weird highlight, but for me it means that I’m able to manage my anxiety in a way I wasn’t able to before. And do things people normally don’t think twice about.

-I had a pretty fun fall- a lot of fall vibes, went to a pumpkin patch and got my fall goodies, lit candles, bought festive soaps and décor. Watched a bunch of Halloween movies, I even ordered Halloweentown on DVD, (FINALLY!).

-Mini When Calls The Heart Premiere Party!

-I hosted a PUMPKIN PARTY! (Which I always wanted to do!)

-Had a Stranger Things Premiere Party (post COMING SOON!)

-I had a really special moment in confession this year. Read more about it HERE.

-I sent my god daughter and her baby brother (my second cousins) and my niece my special hand made, Santa Letters. It’s a tradition I started with my God daughter when she was born. I write a letter to her from Santa and mail it. So I continued it for her brother and of course I had to start it for my new little niece! ❤

-I was given a few special gifts in honor of my new role as “Titi,” two t-shirts, a bracelet and an ornament.

-I celebrated My GOLDEN Birthday! #26OnThe26th

-I had some fun fashion moments! Palazzo Pants

-I baked my butt off for this holiday season- for Thanksgiving I made Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter cookies with Reese’s Pieces, and for Christmas I made Chocolate cake batter cookies with Peppermint kisses in the middle and then White cake mix cookies with Milk Chocolate kisses in the middle and I also made a Berry Crumble.

-I’m learning my limits, and when to say no. I’m a fixer, and I realize rationally I can’t fix what I can’t control. And in this life there is a whole lot we have no control over!

-I finished editing a bunch of VLOGS!

-I put my birthday gift-Ninja bullet to good use and started making smoothies!

-I continue to decorate and organize my room.

-Last Summer, I died my hair BLUE! and now it’s like a green/teal. I have yet to post pics, but that’ll be a post COMING SOON! After the last wedding I’m in, in July, I’m thinking of doing another color next Summer…maybe purple? 😉

***

That was my year in review as you can see, A LOT HAPPENED. And after my family was hit with a major heartache and loss early in the year, it’s an amazing thing to say that for the most part 2017 was a really good year. Looking back on all these memories, I realize that so much change happened and I managed to get through it all and make the most of it- at least I tried in most cases. That doesn’t mean that it wasn’t hard, or scary, but I realized that a lot of the changes were good, happy things. And although they can come with stress too, I’m happy to say that I had so many good things to celebrate. I hope 2018 is just a celebratory for my friends and family but also for myself. 2017 was a lot about me showing up for other people, and although I don’t regret it, I realize I still didn’t get to do a lot of what I set out to do in 2017. So I hope to accomplish them in 2018. That doesn’t mean I won’t continue being there for my family and friends, it just means learning when to say no, and learning when to make myself a priority. Like Sophia Bush once yet,

“You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress, simultaneously.”

I wish you all a Happy, Healthy, 2018! May all your dreams for this year come true. Cheers!

-<3-

BLOGMAS RECAP!

December 31, 2017December 31, 2017michelleleighwrites 2 Comments

Before we roll into the new year I just wanted to do a little reflection/recap on #BLOGMAS.

I actually did it!!!! 25 days, 25 posts- a post a day, everyday!

There were many times I doubted if I would stick to it. If you’ve followed this blog for a while, you know there are many times I let life sidetrack me from my blogging goals.

However, this was something I set out to do, to see if I could actually meet the challenge.

In the beginning, I felt it was pretty easy to post, because I had a few posts already scheduled and ready to go. It was just a matter of checking in on things and then posting to social media. So it was a breeze- then it got harder as I had to post in real time. Every day, I had to set aside time to make sure I could write, edit, and post all in one day. And this is when I realized just how difficult it could be.

With all the holiday things going on- the shopping, the planning, and other things in life like friendships, family, and work, it was difficult to stay on track. Towards the end, I was uploading minutes before midnight! But I made it!

I even blogged ON Christmas Eve AND Christmas Day. I had planned to schedule those ahead of time, but it just got so stressful and so busy, with baking and last minute shopping for the little things. This Christmas was absolutely insane, a lot of traveling around, and it just felt like I was going and going non-stop. I have a new little niece so we had a lot of new special traditions this year.

So in between all that, I was typing up posts on the go, on my crappy cell phone. Making myself slightly car sick! Lol. Hey, at least you can’t say that’s not dedication! Right?

Needless to say not only was my cell phone giving me trouble, my laptop decided to die on me too! So in the face of this challenge I had given myself, it felt like there were a lot of obstacles against me. But I pushed past every one. I borrowed my mom’s computer, my aunt’s computer, to continue the journey, I typed notes into my cellphone, I excused myself on Christmas Eve and Day to upload on my brother’s computer, all on minimal hours of sleep and holiday stress. Just so I could prove to myself that I could do this. And I did. Wherever I went I had BLOGMAS on the brain.

I know it may not be a big deal to some of you reading this, but to me, it’s a huge deal. I often let this blog slide, when I have a lot going on in my life, because it’s my blog, I can pick up whenever or wherever I want. But giving myself a challenge, made me feel like I was being held accountable for something. Don’t get me wrong I felt rude at times sneaking away to write or sneaking off to work on a post/use someone else’s computer to post. (NOT THAT I USED WITHOUT ASKING PERMISSION, lol, because that would just be rude.) I just mean that I did feel bad doing something for myself in the middle of the holidays where your supposed to be sharing it with others. But it was important to me, and I think they all (or at least I hope they all) understood. I didn’t let it stop me from enjoying time with my family. I did what I had to do for BLOGMAS and shut the computer down and resumed my family time.

Another thing I had to come to terms with when posting daily, (because I didn’t always have time to plan and pre-write) was that I couldn’t over-analyze my ideas for my posts. I got an idea, if it was feasible in a day, I ran with it. It usually will take me hours to write, edit and post. Especially if it’s a short story. But with BLOGMAS I was in a bit of a constant time crunch. So I had to leave my perfectionism behind. At times it was hard, because I felt like it wasn’t my best work, but BLOGMAS was a learning experience. You don’t have to love what you write, everyday, but writing everyday is great for a writer to do.

My posts were all Christmas related, which was not my initial intension. But it kind of just happened that way, I guess I was inspired by the season.

Another thing that was new to me, was posting regularly to my social media websites for this blog during BLOGMAS. In case you didn’t know michelleleighwrites is on Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram! Come follow along! I’d love to chat with you! 😉 And as someone who personally doesn’t post to social media everyday, it took some getting used to. But it was a cool experience.

I know I also mentioned this to you guys at some point, how my WordPress account needs updating and I haven’t been able to do that yet, so my photo memory is extremely limited, and so it was a challenge to post without images. I always like to have an image accompany my writing, I feel like it adds a visual aspect. I had to go in and delete images to make room for the few new ones I needed, or work with images I already had. There were many weird obstacles during BLOGMAS, and usually when things like that have happened in the past in life, I would just be like “Oh well, it’s not working, I can’t do it.” But not this time. I set a goal and I met it! I think there was only one day where I posted to social media a few minutes late, but it was posted on the blog, on time, so I was in the clear! Lol.

It was a long BLOGMAS journey, but it kind of flew by and the more the time passed, the days grew and the numbers on the calendar kept climbing, and I kept posting and it just started to become part of my routine and it started to feel really good. There were times I thought to myself, “I’ve got this,” and there were times where I was like, “Oh no, I’m going to miss my deadline!” But I did it, I posted every day from December 1-25 and I am super proud I was able to commit to it and complete the task I set out to do. For myself, but also for all of you.

Thank you for reading… (and if you missed any days of the MLW #BLOGMAS series, I will link them all down below for you to browse.)

BLOGMAS -Day 1- Christmas Bucket List

BLOGMAS -Day 2- Christmas Playlist

BLOGMAS -Day 3- Christmas Movie List

BLOGMAS -Day 4- A Broken Heart For Christmas Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 5- My VLOGMAS Favs

BLOGMAS -Day 6- (Mini) VLOGMAS 2016 Update

BLOGMAS -Day 7- Single in Season

BLOGMAS -Day 8- A Christmas Story

BLOGMAS -Day 9- A Christmas Morning Memory

BLOGMAS -Day 10- Winter Wonderland

BLOGMAS -Day 11- The pressure the Holidays put on us

BLOGMAS -Day 12- Snowed Inn Christmas

BLOGMAS -Day 13- “A Husband for Christmas” Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 14- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 2] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 15- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 3] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 16- Cynical Shopping

BLOGMAS -Day 17- My Perfect Winter Day

BLOGMAS -Day 18- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 4] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 19- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 5] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 20- Give me your Light, Oh Lord.

BLOGMAS -Day 21- Winter [2017] Favorites

BLOGMAS -Day 22- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 6] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 23- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 7] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 24- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 8] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 25- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 9] Short Story

*STAY TUNED!

My 2017 Highlights/Memory Jar post will be up tomorrow!!!

Have a very Happy and safe New Year’s Eve and if your feeling the romance tonight- check out some of my New Year’s Eve stories…

Kiss Me At Midnight…A Short Story

What are you doing New Year’s Eve?

*^ The second is a year after follow-up to the first, it follows the same characters.^*

For Old Times’ Sake

Once again Thanks for reading this year! See you in 2018!

-<3-

BLOGMAS -Day 25- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 9] Short Story

December 25, 2017December 25, 2017michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

BLOGMAS DAY 25!!!!! WE DID IT!!!!!

lights blogmas edit

A husband for christmas short story_Christmas 2017

Read Part 1 HERE, Part 2 HERE, Part 3 HERE, Part 4 HERE,

Part 5 HERE, Part 6 HERE, Part 7 HERE and Part 8 HERE.

A few minutes later Noel comes downstairs wearing a silk red robe.

Kris notices, his eye brow raising.

“Well hello,” he says smirking.

“So I didn’t have time to get you an actual gift, you know what with getting into a car accident and loses my memory and all.”

“Right,” Kris says nodding, a smirk on his lips.

“But I made you a card,” she says handing him it.

Kris turns the card over and it reads-

“Merry Christmas! Unwrap me.”

Noel stands there as she holds her hands out, an expression of expectation on her face.

“Well…whataya say?” She says laughing.

Kris laughs walking over to her, he unties her robe showing off her lacey red lingerie.

“I know we’re not in a hotel, and it’s not exactly like our usual tradition, but…”

“It’s perfect,” he says pulling her into a kiss and then lifting her up over his shoulder as he rushes up the stairs. Noel lets out a squeal.

***

Kris and Noel collapse onto their bed, exhausted, bright smiles on their faces.

“Best Christmas gift, ever.” Kris says looking over at Noel.

She laughs as she climbs back on top of him, “Let’s do it again.” Smirking, he pulls her into a kiss.

***

Later that night by the fire, Noel sits on the floor, near the crackling amber flames, dressed in one of Kris’ green and red plaid pajama tops. Kris wearing just the matching bottoms.

“So…I’m sorry I have to ask…did it feel different?” Noel asks slightly nervous of his response.

“It felt exactly the same,” he says smiling up at her, as he leans in kissing her cheek.

“I have to admit as excited as I was to be with you- and believe me I was very excited,” she says laughing. “I was also nervous. I was just worried that I wouldn’t know what you liked, I didn’t even really know what I liked.”

Kris smirks, “Oh, I know what you like.”

“Yes you do,” she says smiling as she kisses him, cupping his face.

He pulls away to look at her.

“What?” she asks.

Kris smirks, pulling her rings from his pajama pocket.

Noel smiles happily, “You found them!”

“No, I stole them.”

Noel looks at him confused.

“Why would you…”

Kris gets up on one knee.

Noel realizes and covers her mouth, her eyes beginning to water.

“I know that I haven’t been the easiest husband to handle throughout all of this. I wasn’t my best self right now and I feel like I made one hell of a poor impression. But it’s only because I lost my mind when I thought I might lose you. I spoke to the officer in charge of your accident, and I was so relieved to find out that the accident was ruled an actual accident. But that still just goes to show that anything can happen at any time. I just got so scared. And in the mist of all of that I’ve been so afraid that you would not want to even be near me and that we’d lose all we have. When I actually ended up pulling away out of fear of hurting you. And I know by doing that, although it wasn’t intentional, I know I made you feel bad and I’m so sorry. The truth is I just love you more than anything. I know you might not remember how this all happened the first time, so I figured it couldn’t hurt to do it a second time for the woman I love.” He says smiling. “Will you marry me…again,” he asks laughing.

Noel smiles brightly. “Absolutely,” she says as Kris slides her rings on her finger. She places a kiss on his lips.

“Now let’s go celebrate,” she says grabbing his hand and rushing off to their bedroom as he laughs.

Noel and Kris are laying under their red comfy covers, Kris kissing her as she sighs grasping at the sheets.

Noel suddenly has a million flashes of different moments of her life. She freezes as Kris notices, he stops and looks at her.

“Noel…baby…are you ok?”

Noel smiles, and cups his face, kissing him.

“So I guess we’re already working on babies, like we planned, huh? We’re not even married a full month!” She says.

Kris looks at her.

“I remember.” She whispers.

“Did you have another memory?”

“No, not just one, I remember everything,” she says smiling.

“Just like that?” He says confused.

“Well your power of seduction is just out of this world.” She says smiling.

“You really remember everything?”

Noel nods happily, “I don’t know it all just came rushing back at me.”

“What’s my middle name?”

“Kringle. Your parents had a sense of humor.”

“Baby… welcome back!” He says smiling and laughing as he kisses her.

Noel kisses him back, peck after peck after peck.

“I love you so much.”

“Mmm I love you too,” he says his voice husky.

“Looks like I got my husband back just in time for Christmas.”

“He never went anywhere.” Kris says kissing her.

***

A few months later- Valentine’s Day

Noel and Kris sit at a restaurant enjoying their dinner.

“So I have something for you.”

“Well I have something for you too, but I thought were were exchanging gifts at the house.”

“I can’t wait,” she says excitedly handing him the gift bag.

“Ok,” he says laughing, as he shuffles through the tissue paper. He pulls out a small white baby onesie that reads, “I love my daddy.”

Kris’ bright blue eyes shoot up locking with Noel’s sparkling brown eyes.

“Are you?…”

Noel nods a bright smile on her face.

“So we’re?…”

“We’re gonna have a baby!” She says happily. All eyes turning to them.

“Oh my god,” he says smiling brightly, getting up he rushes over to her, pulling her into a kiss. As onlookers smile and clap for them.

***

One Year Later- Christmas

Noel and Kris walk into their living room, Noel holding a beautiful, pink, rosey cheeked bundle in her arms.

“Merry First Christmas sweetheart,” Kris says kissing his daughter’s cheek. “Daddy and mommy love you so much.”

“Babe let’s hang up the stockings,” Noel says pointing to a storage bin near the fireplace.

“Yes, absolutely, come on baby girl, let’s hang up your stocking,” Kris says walking over toward the fireplace.

“Hold on, hold on, let me take a video for you!” Holly yells rushing in the room.

“There’s Aunt Holly!” Noel says smiling.

Holly holds up her phone as she records- a sparkling ring lays on her left head. Kris hangs up first his stocking, then Noel’s and then the third one-displaying the name- Joy.

“Yayyy!” Holly says smiling. “Hi pretty girl, Merry 1st Christmas! Beautiful.” she says putting her phone down and giving her niece a kiss on the forehead.

The doorbell rings and Holly rushes over, “I’ll get it,” she says happily.

Holly opens the door to find Jack.

“Hey you,” she says smiling.

“Merry Christmas baby,” he smirks, kissing her.

“Merry Christmas, come in, come in.” She says happily waving him in.

Just as Holly is about to close the door, a voice is heard.

“Hey wait for us!”

Holly stops and re-opens the door to find Rebecca and Griffin rushing up.

“Hey, Merry Christmas,” Holly says hugging them.

***

Noel and Kris sit around their kitchen table covered in food.

“I would just like to propose a toast,” Kris says holding up his glass, as everyone holds up their glasses. “Cheers to a beautiful holiday with an amazing group of people. Noel and I are happy to call you all family. Cheers to our greatest gift ever, our baby girl Joy. Cheers to Holly and Jack on their engagement, (Holly smiles at Jack, who leans in and kisses her cheek) and cheers to Rebecca and Griffin on their upcoming little bundle. Joy can’t wait to have a friend to play with. We love you guys so much, Merry Christmas!”

“And Cheers to my husband for finally opening up his own auto body shop, Joy and I are so proud of you baby,” Noel says kissing him.

Everyone cheers exchanging I love you’s and Holiday greetings. as the fire place crackles, Christmas music playing in the background and family love all around.

THE END.

Have a Very Merry Christmas!

And Thank You for reading!

-<3-

BLOGMAS -Day 24- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 8] Short Story

December 24, 2017December 24, 2017michelleleighwrites 2 Comments

lights blogmas edit

A husband for christmas short story_Christmas 2017

Read Part 1 HERE, Part 2 HERE, Part 3 HERE, Part 4 HERE,

Part 5 HERE, Part 6 HERE, and Part 7 HERE

Kris looks over at his shoulder as a sleeping Noel lays upon it.

He smiles, clicking the TV off, he tapes her gently.

“Hey babe, Noel…come on baby let’s get you to bed, you must be exhausted,” he whispers as she opens her eyes sleepily.

Kris guides them up the stairs.

Noel walks into their bed room and plops on the bed face down.

“Pajamas?” Kris asks with a laugh as he opens a draw taking some out.

Noel holds her hand out, her face buried into her pillow.

Kris tosses her the pajamas as Noel forces herself up, shuffling her feet over to their bathroom.

A few minutes later, Noel returns, ready for bed to find Kris laying on their chair, instead of the bed.

“What are you doing all the way over there,” she asks confused.

“Oh I just figured you’d be more comfortable having the whole bed to yourself.”

Noel gives Kris a face, “Are you kidding, this bed is enormous, get in.”

“I just thought you’d get a better, uninterrupted night’s sleep…”

“Get in the bed, Thornwood,” Noel says sternly.

“Yes ma’am.” Kris says smirking as he pulls the comforter back.

Noel smiles as she climbs into bed.

“Bossy.” Kris says.

“You love it,” Noel says turning toward him pursing her lips, a twinkle in her eye.

“Oh I do, it’s sexy as hell,” he says as they both laugh, Kris climbs into bed with her.

Noel snuggles into him, her left hand laying on his chest.

“I love you. And I’m just so happy that your okay and that your safe.”

“I love you too.” Noel says smiling as she places a sweet peck on his lips as they cuddle and drift off into a quick slumber.

***

The Next Morning

Noel is showering, as Kris makes the bed.

“Hey baby…” she yells in between soaping and shampooing.

“Yea?” Kris calls popping his head in by the door, his eyes falling on her engagement and wedding rings on a ring holder by the sink. He smirks and sneaks in, taking them, he puts them in his blazer pocket, the one he hung out for today’s festivities.

“It’s the start of day two, just saying…” she says with a smirk, as she looks at him from behind the shower curtain.

Kris laughs peeping back over and locking eyes with her.

“Wait I thought Day Two was Christmas Day, it’s only Christmas Eve.”

Noel’s brow furrows, “Didn’t yesterday count as one of the days?”

Kris laughs.

“I don’t have a problem with that.”

Noel smirks as she closes the curtain.

She shuts her eyes, as she lets the shampoo rinse from her hair. And suddenly she’s reminded of something.

“Hey babe, what time is your meeting?” she yells.

“In like an hour.” Kris calls back, as he brushes his teeth.

“Oh, cuz I’m a little insulted that I’ve been in this shower for over 5 minutes and you have yet to try and join me…I’m naked in here you know,” she says letting the water wet her hair as she shampoos.

Kris laughs loudly and he pulls his shirt off and drops his shorts hopping in, “Come here, girl,” he says as Noel squeals, her lips crashing onto his, as she drapes her arms around his neck.

Noel stands in the shower, a smile spreading across her face.

She finishes up and opens the curtain, a towel wrapped around her. Kris smiles at her, as he catches her eye from across the room.

Noel smiles leaning out of the door, “so I had another memory.”

Kris’ eyes light up, “Did you?”

“Yea, I was in the shower and I was complaining how you weren’t in there with me, and then you hoped right in,” she says laughing.

“Ah, yea, that was a hell of a morning, ” he says laughing.

Noel smiles.

“I’ll be downstairs setting somethings up for today, I’ll let you finish getting dressed.”

Noel nods as Kris exits their bedroom.

She walks over to her dresser and begins opening drawers. She finds her lingerie draw and pulls out a similar red lingerie like the one she had on the day of the accident.

She smiles to herself as she gets an idea.

***

“Hey Noel, baby, how’s it going up there, you okay?” Kris says yelling up to her.

Noel walks down the stairs is a sexy fitted red dress, her lips bright to match, and a set of gold pumps on her feet. Her hair covering her shoulders in soft brunette curls.

“Oh Holy Mother of God- you look…” he says rendered speechless.

“Is it too much?” she says turning so he can see the full view.

“No. It is… perfect,” he says his eyes glancing over her body.

“Yea?” she says smiling.

Kris nods circling his arms around her waist, as his hands fall to her bottom.

“There’s my butt,” he says whispering against her lips as he kisses her.

Noel laughs, “No longer hidden by baggy sweats.”

“Mm mm,” he says shaking his head as he kisses her again.

Noel smiles at him as her hands lay on his chest, her eyes fall upon her empty finger.

“Oh no,” she says nervously.

“What?” Kris says worried.

“My rings. I’m not wearing them,” she says rushing upstairs.

Kris smirks to himself as he follows her up the stairs.

Noel rushes into her bathroom, and she doesn’t see the rings there.

“Oh god, no, I don’t see them anywhere,” she says frantically looking through cabinets and on the floor. “I put them right here on my ring holder, while I showered.”

“I hate to say it babe, but maybe they got knocked into the drain.”

“Oh no, you really think so?” Noel asks panicking.

“It’s a possibility.”

“Oh my god, I’m so so sorry.” she says feeling terrible.

“Don’t stress it, I’ll figure out a way to get it back.”

“How are you gonna do that?”

“I have my ways,” he says smirking at her.

“I just feel so naked without them.”

Kris smiles at her, “Can we just avoid saying the word Naked? I’m hanging on by a thread here, and then you had to come out here wearing that dress.”

“I can take it off if you want,” she says smirking knowing she’s just adding to the sexual tension.

Kris smiles, and pulls her to him, “No absolutely not, I’ll be helping you with that later.”

Noel sighs as she pulls him into a kiss.

***

The door bell rings and Kris smiles at a happy Noel.

“Our first guest!” Noel yells as she hops toward the front door.

Kris follows behind her.

Noel opens the door to find Rebecca and Griffin.

“Hi,” Rebecca says excitedly.

Kris hops in, Noel babe this is…

“Rebecca, I recognize her from the pictures. Hi.” she says smiling as she gives her a hug.

“Please come in,” Noel says stepping aside as she turns to Griffin, “And you are Griffin.”

“Guilty,” he says.

“Come in, come in, make yourselves at home.” Noel says ushering them in, as she gives Griffin a hug as well.

***

A Few Hours Later

Noel sits chatting with her sister Holly and Rebecca, as Kris hangs with Griffin.

Another knock is heard at the door as Kris calls out, “I’ll get it, it’s probably Jack,” he says opening the door to find Jack holding a bottle of wine.

“Hey man, thanks for coming,” as they fist bump.

Jack walks in and instantly his eyes fall upon Holly, who smiles at him.

“Oh hey, you haven’t met Noel’s sister yet have you? This is Holly, Holly- Jack.”

“Nice to meet you” Jack says shaking her hand.

“Nice to meet you too,” she smiles sweetly, a twinkle in her eye.

Kris looks over at Noel who is laughing and having such a great time, a smile he could never get enough of.

***

“Good night,” Noel says smiling as she closes the door, she turns to Kris who stands there behind her waiting .

“So, I believe you and I have plans for the rest of the night,” Noel says walking toward him, he smirks rushing toward her, he pulls her to him, kissing her.

Noel looks up at him, “Give me two minutes,” she whispers walking up the stairs.

Kris smirks as he watches after her his eyes glancing over her body, he reaches into his pocket and looks at the rings in his hand, a smirk playing on his face.

TO BE CONTINUED…STAY TUNED FOR THE CONCLUSION OF “A HUSBAND FOR CHRISTMAS” …COMING TOMORROW!

-<3-

BLOGMAS -Day 23- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 7] Short Story

December 23, 2017December 23, 2017michelleleighwrites 3 Comments

lights blogmas edit

A husband for christmas short story_Christmas 2017

Read Part 1 HERE, Part 2 HERE, Part 3 HERE,

Part 4 HERE, Part 5 HERE, and Part 6 HERE

Kris drives up into the driveway of he and Noel’s house.

The snow covered lawn decked out in twinkling lights and Christmas lawn ornaments- Santa and his sleigh of reindeer.

Noel gasps in awe.

“This is our home?”

“Yup.”

“It’s beautiful,” she says hurrying to open the door.

“Hey, wait a second,” Kris says touching her arm.

Noel stops and looks at him, waiting.

“Are you sure your feeling okay?” he says his tone nervous yet sweet.

“Yes, I am. I’m feeling much better, thank you.”

“You promise?” Kris says more sternly.

“Yes. I promise, I’m ok. Really. I’m sorry I didn’t mean to scare you like that. It was just so unexpected. I thought the first memory I would have, would have been something a little more positive. (she says with a small laugh as Kris nods with a small smirk) It just happened and then I started feeling really weird.”

“That’s ok, you don’t have to apologize for anything. Just please let me know if you start to feel that way again, okay?”

“Ok, I will.” she says kissing his cheek and then turning to open the door.

Kris walks around to grab the bags and takes Noel’s hand leading her to their front door.

“Wow, I love how festive it looks,” Noel says in awe as her eyes scan over the cottage like exterior, a beautiful wreath hanging on their door near potted poinsettia plants on either side of the mahogany door.

“That’s all you babe,” Kris says smiling and opening the front door.

“Wait I did this?” she says pointing to her surroundings.

“I mean as your husband, I was at least around to help with the schlepping, but this was all your vision.”

“Wow, I am good,” she says smiling as she winks at Kris.

Noel steps in and instinctively she’s hit with a feeling of familiarity. She has a glimpse of a memory…

Noel rushes up to her front door, Kris laughing as she drags him.

“I can’t believe we just bought a house…” she shrieks. Just as she’s about to touch the door knob, Kris stops her.

“Hey hey, if we’re gonna do this, we’re gonna to this right,” he says scooping her up in his arms.

“Oh my god,” she says laughing as she opens the door for him.

Kris rushes them upstairs as they fall onto the bed.

“We live together.” Kris says hovering over her, as he cups her face in his hands.

“We live together.” Noel screams excitedly, as they both laugh, Kris covers her lips with his own.

Noel stands at the doorway, frozen.

“Noel, baby…” Kris says waving his hand in front of her face. “Where’d you go?”

“I’m sorry, I…”
“Are you feeling that same way again?”
“Yea….I mean no not panicky, but just walking in here, I had this flash of… something.”

“Flash of what…” Kris says confused as he sets the bag down, he shuts the door and leads Noel into the living room, sitting them down on the couch.

“I saw you and me, walking into this house. You picked me up and carried me in, and we were talking about how we just bought the house and we just seemed so excited to live together” she says looking up at Kris.

“What?” Kris says his eyes still.

“Did that not happen?”
“No it did…did you remember that?”

“Yea, I mean not all of it but I remembered something, same with the accident, it comes in quick flashes. But hey… at least my memory is starting to come back!” Noel says overjoyed, smiling from ear to ear, grabbing Kris by the shoulders and shaking him as she bops up and down.

”Your memory is starting to come back,” he says excitedly as he pulls her into a hug.

Noel pulls Kris closer to her, “speaking of memories, let’s focus on making some new ones while we’re at it,” she says. Kris smirks and kisses Noel as a tiny sigh escapes his lips, things were finally starting to feel like home. “I miss you.” he whispers.

“I haven’t gone anywhere.” Noel says smiling.

Noel’s lips find a certain familiar rhythm with Kris as they sit in the middle of their living room, surrounded by Christmas spirit. Their tree covered in ornaments, the smell of pine in the air, a gold star at the top, their chimney crackling with a warm fire, as Christmas songs play faintly in the background.

Kris leans Noel back onto the couch as he deepens their kiss, Noel’s legs and arms wrapping around his body.

“Does this house have everything on a timer, or something,” she says looking around.

“Remind me to thank Holly for setting this all up,” he says smirking.

“Ah,” she says laughing.

Kris can’t help but fall into their familiar embrace as Noel smiles against his lips.

“What?” he says breathlessly looking down at her.

“I love when you don’t over think,” she says smiling as he puts her hair behind her eye, looking into her eyes.

“Oh yea?” he says laughing.

Noel nods, covering his lips with hers with more urgency then the last kiss.

Kris kisses her as his hands slide up her legs, Noel’s heart beat quickens as Kris begins to lose his reasoning. His lips moving down to her neck.

“These are going to be the longest two days of my life,” she groans as Kris looks up at her.

“Damn it, I forgot we had to wait that long,” he says breathlessly.

Noel smiles, “In the meantime…you can just keep kissing me,” Noel says smirking.

“That can be arranged,” he smirks pulling her into him, as she jolts against him, she squeals welcoming his touch.

Noel and Kris lay kissing for what feels like forever. Noel pulls off Kris’ shirt as she looks over his body she smirks, noticing her name tattooed on the left side of his chest-near his heart. She runs her hand over it.

“When did you get that?” she asks.

“On our first year anniversary, you couldn’t decide what to get me, so you made me come shopping with you. And we were passing store after store, and then we passed a tattoo shop, and you made some joke about paying for me to get a tattoo. And then it kind of turned into more than just a joke.”

“I made you get my name?” she asks repulsed.

“No,” he says laughing “You thought I was getting a New York Giants tattoo.”

“Oh gosh!” she says laughing.

“But I don’t love them as much as I love you so…” he says smiling at her.

“And we weren’t even engaged at that point?”

“No, we were not.”

“Wow, that’s ballsy,” she says smiling, “A tattoo is pretty permanent.”

“Well I knew you were it for me. So to me you were already permanent.”

Noel looks at him, as her eyes water, she reaches up, kissing him sweetly.

Noel and Kris continue kissing.

Needing to catch her breath, Noel moves, cupping his face gently she pulls away from him.

“Are you okay?” Kris asks moving away and staring at her. “Did I hurt you?”

“No, I’m fine.” she says laughing.

“See I knew this was going to happen. I knew once we got home, I wouldn’t be able to stay away from you. I want you. I always want you. And now I’ve made you do too much too quick….and….”

Noel laughs and grabs his face in her hands, staring into his eyes, “I said, I’m fine. I just need a second to catch my breath,” she says smiling.

Kris kisses her cheek, “You think this has you fighting to catch your breath…just wait…you ain’t seen nothing yet,” he says kissing her long and forcefully as Noel’s body becomes like putty.

“I can’t wait,” Noel says kissing him.

Kris smirks at her and he pulls her up to a siting position on the couch, “Hot chocolate?” he asks.

“Sure….Wait does that mean we’re done here?” Noel asks.

Kris smirks walking into the kitchen that overlooks the living room.

“I wish were weren’t but we kind of have to be,” he says smirking at her. “Any further and more clothes will come off, and before we know it, we’ll be going against Doctor’s orders,” he says laughing.

“Oh what, you can’t control yourself?” Noel teases as she saunters over toward the kitchen.

“Can you?” Kris says leaning over to her, his lips inches from hers.

Noel smirks, “I see your point,” she says laughing and turning away from him.

The sexual tension in the room heavy. Kris smirks as his eyes glaze over her retreating figure.

“In other non-sexual news, I think we should host Christmas!” Noel says excitedly as she spins on her heel to face him.

“Baby…” Kris says giving her an “are you kidding me you just had surgery” face.

“What? Come on babe, I know that you have your reservations, but I want to be around people. It can only help with my memory right?”

“Christmas Eve is tomorrow, it’s too soon.”

“Kris, come on!” she says pouting.

“What are you afraid to spend it alone with me?” he says looking at her.

“Your kidding right?”

“Well I mean this is the first real time, we’re truly alone. Maybe your starting to feel weird.”

“Hmm, are you sure that you weren’t the one who had a concussion? We were just making out,” she says looking at him with a puzzled expression.

“I’m just saying-“

“No stop. You my sexy husband are either drunk, insane, or sleep deprived.”

“2 out of 3,” he says with a smirk.

Noel laughs, kissing him.

“I just worry about you,” he says wrapping his arms around her waist.

“Well then why don’t you ever listen to me, when I tell you what I want.”

“Ugh fine, your right. What do you want?” he says smirking.

“Well if we’re really being honest, I want you. I’d love to have you all to myself, making love all hours of the day and night. But considering we have to wait until Christmas Day to do so, we might as well give ourselves some kind of distraction. Because if we don’t it’ll seem like forever.”

“It already seems like forever,” he says looking at her his blue eyes flickering with love.

Kris kisses her softly.

He looks up pointing to the mistletoe hanging the archway. He hands her a cup of hot chocolate as he takes his own walking toward the couch again. Noel following behind him.

“So…wanna watch a Christmas movie?”

“Definitely,” she says smiling as she sits down next to him.

Home Alone, begins playing on the screen.

Kris looks over at Noel.

“Ok, let’s host Christmas.”

Noel smiles brightly, “Really?”

“Yea,” he says smiling, “Come here,” he kisses her sweetly as she snuggles into him. Kevin McAllister and company gracing the screen before them.

TO BE CONTINUED…

-<3-

BLOGMAS -Day 22- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 6] Short Story

December 22, 2017December 23, 2017michelleleighwrites 4 Comments

lights blogmas edit

A husband for christmas short story_Christmas 2017

Read Part 1 HERE, Part 2 HERE, Part 3 HERE, Part 4 HERE, and Part 5 HERE

Noel walks over to gather her things, excitedly and she hurries along.

Dr. King looking over at her with a smile as she notices the worry etched on Kris’ face.

“Dr. King…” he utters.

“Yes?”

“Are you sure, she’s okay to go home, it’s only been a couple of days.”

“I would not let her leave if I thought she was at risk in any way.”

“I know I just- I’m worried…I don’t want to rush her recovery and she’s like full steam ahead with wanting to know things and be like we used to be in hopes that it could jog her memories. I’m just worried all this will do the opposite and will instead lead to a set back.”

“I’m not going to lie to you, Mr. Thornwood, there is always the possibility of setbacks with any surgery or accident. But in my true medical opinion aside from your wife’s memory loss, she is fine. Being home and out in the real world may actually do her some good.”

“Is there anything I should be doing to help her along?” he says whispering as he glances at an oblivious Noel dancing around and packing up her things.

“Talk to her, show her pictures, videos, tell her stories, take her to places of significance…here, take my card, if you have any questions about anything, call me, I don’t want you to feel alone in this.”

“Thank you, so much,” Kris says taking the card.

Noel hurries over seconds later, with her bag.

“So I’m all ready, can we get me signed out?”

“Yes right this way, the nurse has the paper work at the front desk.”

Kris reaches and takes the bag from Noel. She smiles at him and kisses his cheek.

“Um, Dr. King,” she says causing her to halt and turn before leaving the room.

“Are we allowed to…ya know…” she says gesturing a wave of her hand accompanied by wide eyes.

Kris’ eyes widen as he looks over at his wife, shocked doesn’t begin to describe how he felt.

“Noel…” Kris begins.

“If…you are asking me if I think it is safe for you two to have sex at this point in your recovery…” Dr. King says trying to gage the situation, her face slightly confused.

Noel nods, “Yes that’s what I’m asking.”

Kris coughs and looks down.

“Oh now, who’s blushing,” Noel says looking over at Kris. “It’s a valid question,” She says.

“It is, I agree. You should know exactly what your body can handle at this state in your recovery. In my medical opinion I think waiting at least a day or two before any sexual activity would be your safest bet. Although you are recovering better then we could have ever expected, you still did have surgery and you did suffer a concussion, so it’s important to take it easy and not exert yourself too soon.”

“Ok so, like two days then?” Noel says.

“If you feel like your up for it in a day or two, (she says awkwardly looking from Noel to Kris who still seems uncomfortable) then yes, I think you would be fine.”

“Great!” she says smiling as she takes Kris’ hand and leads the way out, Dr. King following close behind a small laugh on her lips.

***

Kris and Noel walk out of the hospital and Kris leads the way toward the parking garage, Noel tightening her grip on his hand.

“Are you cold?” he asks looking over at her.

“No, I’m fine,” Noel says smiling.

“It’s not too far, Jack brought my car over last night, and he said it was parked right on the main floor.”

“Ok, no problem.”

Kris and Noel enter the parking garage and make their way to their car.

Kris beeps the car as the locks open, he throws the bag in the back seat and then walking Noel over to the passenger seat, he opens the door for her.

“Thank you,” she says smiling as she hops in.

Kris gets in and starts the car, waiting for it to warm up.

“Did I upset you, asking Dr. King about when we can have sex?”

“I’m not upset, I just-I was surprised I guess. I didn’t think you’d be up for something that intimate, just yet.” he says looking over at her.

“Well let’s see, I may not remember everything, but there are some things I do know.”

“Oh yea?” Kris says smirking.

“I know I’m your wife and I know that I think you are really sexy.”

Kris laughs and leans over to her, “Trust me, I think your even sexier,” he whispers.

Noel smiles, as Kris leans over placing a soft kiss on her lips.

“Hey you got me to fall back in love with you in a matter of days, so me wanting to have sex so soon, really shouldn’t be a surprise to you.” she says laughing.

“Can you be serious for two seconds.?

“No.” Noel says smirking.

Kris rolls his eyes, a smirk on his lips.

“Sex is a big deal with us…it’s not just a physical thing, it’s a whole other emotional level.”

“And your afraid that I’ll ruin it. Because I’m not me. Or at least not the me your used to?

“That is absolutely not what I said nor is it what I mean. I just don’t think we should rush it.”

“Are you afraid to be with me, is that it, because I’m not going to break, Kris.”

“Let’s just talk about this at home, okay?” he says pulling out of the garage.

Noel huffs and looks out the window.

Feeling bad for how he’s been acting Kris looks over at her, while at a red light.

“Hey…”

Noel turns to him, obviously frustrated and hurt.

“I’m sorry. I love you.”

Her face softens and falls into a small smile.
“I don’t know what I’m doing here, this is completely new territory for me.”

“Oh me too,” she says laughing.

“I know and I am not meaning to make this about me. I just- I don’t want to-“

“Shhh,” Noel says putting her finger to his lips. “I love you, and you love me, let’s just focus on that.”

Kris sighs and smiles, “Come here,” he says smiling as Noel leans into him, he kisses her once again.

“Let’s get you home,” he says with a smile, his hands on the wheel.

“Yes, please!” she says happily.

Kris begins driving.

A few minutes away from home, a car stops short in front of Kris, causing Kris to slam on the breaks. Instinctively he places his hand out over Noel, to shield her.

Noel’s body jerks slightly forward as her seat belt prevents her from going anywhere, an image of a loud crash and shattered glass jolts through her mind, as she remembers a slight moment of her collision.

“I’m so sorry, are you ok?” Kris says nervously looking at Noel.

Noel stares ahead, frozen.

“Noel, baby…”

Noel’s heart begins to race, her palms start to sweat and the car begins to close in on her. She starts to feel her oxygen suck out of her.

“I…I can’t breathe,” she says clutching her chest.

“Wha- What?” Kris says jolting and turning, reaching for her.

“I need to get out of this car…”

“Ok, um, ok…” Kris pulls over to the side of the road and hops out of the car rushing to her side. Opening the door, he brings her to her feet.

“Hey, hey, hey come here, I got cha,” he says sitting her on a bench near by. “What’s happening, I need you to tell me what your feeling,” Kris says staring into her eyes, his heart pounding as the nerves start setting in.

Noel starts to breath deeply, as she begins to calm herself.

“I’m ok, I’m sorry I just, I felt like the car accident just came flooding back full speed, once that guy stopped short in front of us.”

“Ok, well just breathe baby, small, steady breaths, you were probably having a bit of a panic attack,” he says kneeling in front of her and holding her hand, while his other hand cups her face.

Noel nods as she starts to calm down.

“Are you ok?”

“Yes, I’m ok.”

Kris looks at her, Noel noticing the fear on his face.

“I’m ok, I promise,” she says cupping his face in her hands.

Kris closes his eyes and puts his forehead against hers.

“Let’s go home,” Noel whispers.

“You sure, we can wait a few more minutes.” Kris says staring up at her.

“No, I can’t wait to be in my own home, with my husband.”

Kris smirks and leaning up he kisses her, as they then walk hand in hand back torward their car.

TO BE CONTINUED…

-<3-

BLOGMAS -Day 21- Winter [2017] Favorites

December 21, 2017December 20, 2017michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

not my photo.

Fashion/Clothing:

*Pashminas/Scarves- I basically wear one everyday, I have them in like every color and I love them!

*Sweaters/Cardigans

*Flannel shirts

*Little ankle/brown booties

*Pairing black with brown- some people don’t think this goes, but I actually really love it!

*Black bomber jacket- I got mine on sale for like $15 and I wear it constantly.

*Layering up- I love wearing layers, so that I can take off and put on.

Beauty:

*Natural brown eyeshadow with a brown lip color (Revlon’s Chocolicious) to match- this looks kind of cool with my now teal-like colored hair.

Cozy/Winter Vibes:

*Hoodies

*Fuzzy socks

*Slipper booties

*Iced Decaf Peppermint Mocha drink from Dunkin Donuts

Music:

*Christmas Music

*Taylor Swift’s new album- Reputation

Movie:

*The Holiday (I forgot how great this movie is! Jude Law is too adorable in it, I just can’t take it!)

What are some of your favorites this winter?

-<3-

Michelle Leigh Writes

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BLOGMAS -Day 25- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 9] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 24- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 8] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 23- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 7] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 22- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 6] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 21- Winter [2017] Favorites