The Traveler
How a Young Man Left Home to Provide for His Family23 total reviews
Comment from bichonfrisegirl
Vista Kay,
My apologies if you receive this three times. I am experiencing terrible computer glitches. But, I am determined that you receive this review.
Bravo, bravo!!! A superb write! I loved it. You did an amazing job in the telling of this story. I think that this would make for a fabulous book. It pulls at the heart strings. You had me in tears when Dave was saying goodnight to his siblings that were back at home. It left me with the same feeling that I used to ge when watching 'Little House on the Prairie' or 'The Waltons' (two of my fave tv shows).
A story about family, hardships, and living in a era when people put other's needs before their own.
A great deal of 'homework/research' no doubt went into the writing of this, as your depiction of that era was excellent.
This would make a wonderful book! You have a tremendous writing talent.
This was a really first rate read. Just wonderful, Vista Kay!
Hugs,
bichonfrisegirl aka Connie
reply by the author on 29-Nov-2013
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Vista Kay,
My apologies if you receive this three times. I am experiencing terrible computer glitches. But, I am determined that you receive this review.
Bravo, bravo!!! A superb write! I loved it. You did an amazing job in the telling of this story. I think that this would make for a fabulous book. It pulls at the heart strings. You had me in tears when Dave was saying goodnight to his siblings that were back at home. It left me with the same feeling that I used to ge when watching 'Little House on the Prairie' or 'The Waltons' (two of my fave tv shows).
A story about family, hardships, and living in a era when people put other's needs before their own.
A great deal of 'homework/research' no doubt went into the writing of this, as your depiction of that era was excellent.
This would make a wonderful book! You have a tremendous writing talent.
This was a really first rate read. Just wonderful, Vista Kay!
Hugs,
bichonfrisegirl aka Connie
Comment Written 27-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 29-Nov-2013
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Oh Connie! I cannot tell you how touched I am by this review and your approval! I have read and reread and reread this review again. Connie says I have "a tremendous writing talent"!
Your words are too kind and so incredibly generous. I will admit that this was hard to write and took a couple of weeks. I've wanted to do something about my wonderful uncle (who was our primary male "parent") for a long time, but I feared that I could never do him justice. You make me feel that I've at least come close to that.
Honestly, dear friend, the research consisted of thousands of hours walking in the field while he held my little hand. I was known as his "shadow" as a child. He was everything I ever learned about dignity and integrity. Other family members--mostly cousins his age--shared a little information, but he shared things with me that he couldn't share with anyone else. We bonded as a parent and child, and I will be grateful for that every day of my life. One of my greatest childhood joys was going through his footlocker. It contained tiny souvenirs from his "adventures" in the CCC and the Army Air Corps. They were fairly worthless and meant nothing to anyone else: match boxes, handkerchiefs, pictures, and old copies of Stars and Stripes. They told his story, though. And I knew my grandmother's sisters--his aunts. Uncle Gene lived to 102 and died just a couple of years before Uncle Dave! I guess my point is that the research was the easy part. lol
I cannot tell you what you've done for me with this review. You just have no idea what a difference this makes for me. I've struggled to transfer his story to paper, to translate his voice, to tell his tale. A book about Dave would be a dream come true. With your wonderful encouragement, I'm beginning to think it might be a possibility. You just can't imagine how gratifying that is.
I'm so grateful, Dear Connie. Your support means the world to me! Those stars are nice, too. lol
Thanks for your generosity, friendship, and encouragement.
Have a wonderful Friday.
Oh, sorry for the delay in responding. This is our Thanksgiving, so I've had family here and my head in an oven--in a good way. I am sure you understand.
Things will be back to "normal," though that's a relative term, on Monday.
Thanks again, my dear friend. Wow. You are such a great support.
Vista Kay
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Vista Kay,
You truly did do your uncle justice with this write. You earned every single star, and then some with this incredible write.
One would not know that you struggled to complete this. It is so well written that it comes across as effortless (which of course it surely wasn't). Besides being extremely well written, you writes are so easy for me to read and to review. They entertain with a capital E, and are always full of emotion and have such a down to earth feel about them. Truly, you are very talented (at least I think so, and I'm sure that many would agree with me).
Thanks for sharing some more of your personal history, oh, and also for posting your pic on your profile page. I meant to tell you before how nice it is to finally be able to put a face to your name.
You have been a great support to me as well, Vista Kay, and I value our friendship. :)
Enjoy your time with the family over Thanksgiving an the weekend.
Hugs,
Connie
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Thanks for being so fabulously supportive, Connie. It means so much to me. I know I talk too much. lol I was a quiet child who has grown into a "sharing" adult.
The picture--the gray lady has a thought. ;) I really sit still for them, but a friend sneaked up on me. I'm glad that it's okay. I do like it when we can see each other. Several people have commented on my hair, which makes me laugh. I'm 52, but don't use hair color, it makes it fall out! It's too much trouble anyway.
I'm so glad that you liked the story. I'll work on doing more with the family tales. Friends here are encouraging, and I don't want the stories to go when I do. I feel a certain responsibility to them. Thank you for giving me courage.
Connie, you are a true friend.
Internet has been down for several days. It's made me more than a little crazy! Sorry for the delayed response.
Big hug from toasty Texas.
Vista Kay
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Hi Vista Kay,
Re Hair colour ... I would love to stop colouring mine. I tried 3 years ago for about 4 months, but I looked like a skunk ... stripe right down the middle and at the sides too ... yikes ... who needs a costume on Halloween. At least your bits of grey are nicely distributed throughout.
Funny thing ... I've been experiencing a ton of computer glitches recently to with not just one, but two computers the last few days. Fellow was supposed to have a look at them today but we had to reschedule as Calgary is having a major blizzard right now.
If your computer was down you may not have received an email that I sent you yesterday morning concerning your very fun comment to me that we are both "slightly bent". It gave me an idea for a write and I posted the poem yesterday morning entitled 'Slightly Bent'. hehehe ... thank you dear friend, for the inspiration for that write (I made mention of it in the author notes).
Toasty Texas, huh? I'll trade you. It's too cold and nasty to even venture outside here today.
Hugs,
Connie
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Connie, you make me smile--grinning from ear to ear. Yes, it's been 60 degrees here today; we had lows in the 20s for several days, which we deem disastrous. But things are "normal" now. We are proof that even winter is relative. lol It's all in your perspective. A White Christmas would terrify us!
I had that stripe down the center of my hair throughout my 30's. I looked like Pepe Le Pew! That's when I tried hair color, but it didn't do the job, just made a mess. The last time I tried was right before my 45th birthday, and I had to shave my head! I only had pieces parts, as another friend says, left--no need for a comb! So I took the leap. It was actually nice, but I do not have the face to rock that Sinead O'Connor look. If I could color, I probably would. I've seen your photos, and you look great, my friend. As we say here, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." ;)
So we both have tech issues. I suspect mine are a result of hard rains followed by hard freezes here. We have had some freakish weather for TX. I lived in Albuquerque for a time, and my last winter there was highlighted by a blizzard. I am not envious of you at all! When they could not find the cattle, this farm girl was ready to retreat back across the Pecos to TX. Cows are quite large, you know. Loved the Rockies and the desert, but not that deep snow. You are a special breed, you snow people. I hope your computer issues are rectified soon. It is a different level of frustration, isn't it? I felt so cut off from the world. Hard to believe how long we lived without these contraptions!
I haven't checked the email yet. You are such a special friend! I will check and see what you've done asap. I've almost a week behind, and panic has set in hard. I have to find that, though. Anything you write makes me feel better; can't wait to see what you've done with "slightly bent." lol
Come on down, Connie! I'm heading back to Austin soon, and I'd love to show you A-town. It's nice and quiet here in the Piney Woods, but Austin is the land of boot-scootin, barbeque, and blue bonnets. I'm excited!
Stay warm and comfortable. Spring is on the way.
Big hug.
Vista Kay
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Ok, you may get this twice, since this particular computer I am presently using is soooo sensitive to the touch, and I seem to inadvertently send or lose things (I'm not sure which ... I suspect I lose them).
What a lovely reply, VK. You are so incredibly generous and kind to invite me to Austin. I have once been to Dallas during a Mary Kay Convention. There were pink cadillacs everywhere, and they tried to recruit me while I was swimming in the hotel pool ... LOL. Likewise if you ever want to come to Calgary. The main attraction here is the Calgary Stampede.
My next vacation is in Jan. in Mauii for 2 weeks with a friend and her brother. Should be fun. Can't wait to escape the cold for a while. Also am starting a job in Jan. (4 days/week). That will be interesting to see how I manage to manage my time, and still squeeze in FanStory.
Question ... what is/are blue bonnets?
Re hair ... I keep telling my hairdresser that one day I am going to just say shave it all off, and I will wear a wig for 3 or 6 months until my hair is grown out. Haven't gotten up the nerve yet though to do that.
Wishing you a very nice evening! Keep smiling! :)
Hugs,
Connie
Comment from RodG
Hello Vista Kay,
I saw this as a "featured" story and had to read it today. It was definitely worth my time! I like the way you tell Dave's story, first by setting the scene where he's left home to help Mama, then all the flashback info about his family. You do a wonderful job of depicting the Depression years as they affected your family. Moreover, we see the pride and generosity of young Dave and are much attracted to him. I do hope someday you continue his story into the Air Corps and afterwards. Great job of using dialect. Rod
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Hello Vista Kay,
I saw this as a "featured" story and had to read it today. It was definitely worth my time! I like the way you tell Dave's story, first by setting the scene where he's left home to help Mama, then all the flashback info about his family. You do a wonderful job of depicting the Depression years as they affected your family. Moreover, we see the pride and generosity of young Dave and are much attracted to him. I do hope someday you continue his story into the Air Corps and afterwards. Great job of using dialect. Rod
Comment Written 27-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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This is such a lovely review! Thank your for being so kind about my attempt to share something of my Uncle Dave with the world. He was such a special man, and it's been a challenge to tackle his memory.
The review is so thoughtful and well written. I am just thrilled that you found so many positives in the story and writing. I would love to continue his tale into the Air Corps and beyond. So glad the dialect worked, too.
Thanks, again, RodG.
Your support made my day!
Vista Kay
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I'm glad I could be a day-brightener. Happy Thanksgiving!
Rod
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It was lovely, RodG. And then the internet crashed! So frustrating.
Hope you had a wonderful Turkey Day.
Vista Kay
Comment from Bayberry
Oh Vista Kay, this is an outstanding tribute to your Uncle Dave. It's an amazing story that grips the reader. (I never really new of anyone before that lost their life to tetanus.) The events were told so well the realness was strongly felt. You've done a terrific job telling this family history...as well as with your author notes that filled in additional details. Hugs, Janet
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Oh Vista Kay, this is an outstanding tribute to your Uncle Dave. It's an amazing story that grips the reader. (I never really new of anyone before that lost their life to tetanus.) The events were told so well the realness was strongly felt. You've done a terrific job telling this family history...as well as with your author notes that filled in additional details. Hugs, Janet
Comment Written 27-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Janet, I'm so blown away by this review! I could never do that man justice. His memory has been so intimidating for a very long time, but I decided to soldier on. Your support and approval means that I did the right thing, and that means so much to me--more than I can say.
Yes, Clara died an awful death, and those kids lived with it for the rest of their lives. Her loss was always palpable in their conversations about childhood. They adored that little girl.
I am thrilled that you liked the story so much! That precious six made my day, but your words penetrated my heart.
I'm so grateful.
Thanks again.
Vista Kay
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:)
Comment from nancy_e_davis
This is a very interesting story VK. Can you enlarge on it and write a book. I found it intriguing and would read on if you had other chapters. It even sounded like a Truman Capote story. Well done. Nancy
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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This is a very interesting story VK. Can you enlarge on it and write a book. I found it intriguing and would read on if you had other chapters. It even sounded like a Truman Capote story. Well done. Nancy
Comment Written 27-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Wow! Nancy, just having someone mention Truman Capote in a review of my story--and in a positive way--is such a compliment! I cannot tell you what that means to me. You, my friend, made my day! I would love to expand the story into a book. My uncle made it to 87, and he was a wonderful man. It's been hard to write about him, because he meant so much to me. He was really my "father," but many of his nieces and nephews feel that way. So did his brothers and sisters. He was adored, to say the least.
Thank you for understanding. Thank you for your support. Thank you for everything.
Vista Kay
Comment from Millibrad
What a beautifully told story and how wonderful that you are preserving it in this way for future generations. It is so heart-wrenching how the children wanted so desperately to believe Clara was coming home two years after her death. Good luck in the contest.
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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What a beautifully told story and how wonderful that you are preserving it in this way for future generations. It is so heart-wrenching how the children wanted so desperately to believe Clara was coming home two years after her death. Good luck in the contest.
Comment Written 27-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Thank you for your kind words. I'm thrilled that you liked the story so much. I'll take "beautifully told" any day! Yes, they wanted her back all of their lives, and her loss was palpable in every conversation about their childhoods.
Thank you again for this wonderful review and for all that luck.
Have a great day.
Vista Kay
Comment from Joan E.
Your use of the present tense added to the immediacy of your storytelling. I particularly liked the subtlety of "another delivery in diapers," the vivid description of Clara, and the "winter coats" metaphor. Thank you for sharing your family's story with us, along with the dialect and photograph to add to the realism. Best wishes in the contest- Joan
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Your use of the present tense added to the immediacy of your storytelling. I particularly liked the subtlety of "another delivery in diapers," the vivid description of Clara, and the "winter coats" metaphor. Thank you for sharing your family's story with us, along with the dialect and photograph to add to the realism. Best wishes in the contest- Joan
Comment Written 27-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Thank you, Joan E, for your wonderful review and for being specific in the things that you found particularly appealing. I am glad the dialect worked. I didn't want to overdo, but I wanted to make sure his country sensibilities came across.
I'm so pleased that you liked it. My uncle has been a hard subject to tackle; I loved him so much. Thank you for supporting my effort!
Vista Kay
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Your tribute did him justice. Thanks again for sharing the fascinating story. Happy Turkey Day- Joan
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It was a lovely Turkey Day, Joan. And then the internet crashed. I'm just getting back! So frustrating.
Hope you are well. Thanks again for your kind words.
Vista Kay
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I've been there and done that more times than I like to remember. I hope your computer stabilizes. I'm still trying to quell my sciatica--progress is in sight. Take care of yourself- Joan
Comment from Sueellen11
VistaKay this is a great story,, of your family,, boy it was hard back then,, they lived a hard life,, not like the weaklings of today,, they have to have all the mods cons,, but in remember my nan,, such hard working women,, but non of us kids suffered in flack I believed we are so much better off then most today,, we had nothing but love,, and GXoD's grace and blessings,,good luck in this contest. Vista,,,blessings to you,,sueellen
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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VistaKay this is a great story,, of your family,, boy it was hard back then,, they lived a hard life,, not like the weaklings of today,, they have to have all the mods cons,, but in remember my nan,, such hard working women,, but non of us kids suffered in flack I believed we are so much better off then most today,, we had nothing but love,, and GXoD's grace and blessings,,good luck in this contest. Vista,,,blessings to you,,sueellen
Comment Written 27-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Oh Sue-Ellen, those people survived things that I cannot imagine. I just can't. I'm sure your family was and is much the same. We lacked nothing; our mother wouldn't have it. We got most things we wanted and everything we needed. Now, when I feel like surrendering the fight, I remind myself who raised me! I'll never have it as hard as they did. Ever. And I'm grateful that my life has been so easy.
Thank you for this lovely review and for your time! I'm sorry I've done so little reviewing today. I'll be back after the holiday, though.
Thanks again.
Take care.
Hugs and blessing.
Vista Kay
Comment from humpwhistle
This is a terrific literary tale of a time. My father worked for the CCC, too. The 'non-fiction novel' approach works. You paint a very vivid picture of the cycle of poverty that trapped so many. A worthy lesson in history--your own, and that of others, too.
Just some notes I took as I read:
'...off to war or victory....'--I like this. Thought provoking.
Suddenly, the squeal of sparking -- I'm not the 'ly' police, but I wonder of you really need 'Suddenly'?
I know it's a nit, but your piece is so good...
They built dam(n)s
Peace, Lee
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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This is a terrific literary tale of a time. My father worked for the CCC, too. The 'non-fiction novel' approach works. You paint a very vivid picture of the cycle of poverty that trapped so many. A worthy lesson in history--your own, and that of others, too.
Just some notes I took as I read:
'...off to war or victory....'--I like this. Thought provoking.
Suddenly, the squeal of sparking -- I'm not the 'ly' police, but I wonder of you really need 'Suddenly'?
I know it's a nit, but your piece is so good...
They built dam(n)s
Peace, Lee
Comment Written 27-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Hello Lee. First of all, thank you so incredibly much for the kind words and amazingly generous review! I'm thrilled that you liked the piece so much and could relate to a tale of the CCC. The younger boys would follow my uncle, too. They used the skills they acquired for the rest of their lives. I would bet your dad did, too. Isn't it a small world? Dave finally shipped out of Texas to Silver City, New Mexico. He loved it there.
And you are absolutely right. Damn was a rookie error, and suddenly was completely unnecessary. It's gone now. Thanks so much for such a careful reader and your astute observations. It makes that six all the more precious.
Have a wonderful day. Your support means a lot to me.
Vista Kay
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Absolutely my pleasure. Lee
Comment from Nosha17
Wonderful story beautifully told. I enjoyed it thoroughly from beginning to end. Your characters were well-drawn and sympathetic, and your dialogue was lively and crisp. Commendable. Faye
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Wonderful story beautifully told. I enjoyed it thoroughly from beginning to end. Your characters were well-drawn and sympathetic, and your dialogue was lively and crisp. Commendable. Faye
Comment Written 27-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Hello Faye,
I'm so thrilled that you liked the story so well. How wonderfully gracious your comments are. I'm so glad that you like my family; we are glad to return the favor. And your nod for my dialogue is terrifically encouraging.
Thanks again.
Vista Kay
Comment from kiwisteveh
Hi, VK
This is a wonderful story and a great entry for the NF contest, I am sure you will fare well.
I always admire people who can 'get inside' the bare facts of history and re-imagine it into something that resembles fiction. And what a touching and poignat story you have to tell.
Best of luck.
Steve
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Hi, VK
This is a wonderful story and a great entry for the NF contest, I am sure you will fare well.
I always admire people who can 'get inside' the bare facts of history and re-imagine it into something that resembles fiction. And what a touching and poignat story you have to tell.
Best of luck.
Steve
Comment Written 27-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 27-Nov-2013
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Oh Steve! I am overwhelmed by your wonderful comments and kind review. That gorgeous six did not hurt one bit either. Thank you for the bit of luck you tossed my way, too.
I'm so glad that you found the story touching. My uncle was a special man, and he was an incredible gift to us. I miss him every day.
Your approval means so much!
With tons of gratitude.
Vista Kay