It was Ilene’s idea to include Marge’s senile mother for Thanksgiving.
“Everyone just be whoever she thinks you are. It’ll be fine.”
Fortunately she thought Marge and Ernest were her parents. Marge would wield some power.
“Betty, I think you know everyone.”
“I see Ida brought George.”
Marge smirked. Lloyd was to be her mother’s best friend’s brother; Ilene would have to keep her hands off him.
“Look who’s here.”
Nard spilled his beer when Betty Small embraced him. “Billy! You got leave!”
Marge grinned. “Yes, your fiancé.”
She could have asked Betty to mash the potatoes but didn’t.
***
“Make room on the couch for Betty and Billy,” Marge commanded. “Let them get caught up.” She laughed at Nard’s desperation as he helped her mother to the couch.
“I’m your father?”
“No. Billy didn’t make it back.”
“Oh.”
“She never loved my father as much.”
“Oh.”
When everyone in the crowded single-wide had a full plate Nard, holding Mrs. Small’s hand, spoke.
“Thanks Lord for these friends and all this food. Lord, I’m grateful for Betty, love of my life… I’ll come home,” he promised.
After a moment of astounded silence Ernest coughed ‘amen’ and everyone dug in.
***
“Marge, Ernest- epic. Good food.”
“Thank you Lloyd. I sure do miss my mother’s mashed potatoes though. These are just ok. She did something that made hers….”
“Epic?”
“Yeah, Lloyd, epic. I wish I knew what it was.”
“Marge, these are fine. A little garlic and rosemary wouldn’t of hurt either.”
“Mom?!”
But Marge’s mom was already Betty again, mooning over Nard. Nard’s uniform was just his cleanest Dickies from the dealership, but he was soldiering on in his role.
Leaning against Ernest, Marge smiled gratefully. “My mother hasn’t called me by name in two years.”
“Happy Thanksgiving, Marge.”
***
The Carrot Ranch November 8, 2018, prompt: “In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story that pairs mashed potatoes with a superpower. It can be in any circumstance, funny or poignant. Go where the prompt leads.” Go to Carrot Ranch to read Charli’s powerful post, to enjoy more powerful potato stories from the ranch hands, or to submit your own.
I was led to write three 99 word responses. Then I was led to write another 99 words, BFF that might clarify these episodes. If you like these characters, read more at the Ernest & Marge page.
Oh, Thanksgiving and it’s contained chaos is wrapped up well with your characters. I especially like the addition of the senile mother-in-law.
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Thank you. I just added a 99 word backstory that introduces the mother.
https://shiftnshake.wordpress.com/2018/11/11/bffs/
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A feast of characters has arrived! And you’ve given them a seat at the table.
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No choice, glad they let me in.
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These are great. They gave me a giggle.
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I heard that giggle. It is quite infectious, I love it.
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I read the backstory first, but I don’t think these really needed it. What a charming Thanksgiving. Everyone is so accommodating. Pass the mashed potatoes, please.
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But I like the backstory; it’s brought on more of this story. Loosen your belt there’s more to be served. Thanks for coming by this humble repast.
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I like the backstory too. I just meant it wasn’t necessary to understanding the first three stories. Bring on more helpings please – always room for more of these.
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It’s already posted, Tour of Duty is the next course..
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🙂
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Love your series of FF for mashed potatoes. The reference to ‘dickies’ made me think of my Dad, who always wore them, even after he retired from farming. Great story of love and comfort food.
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Thanks. Glad to have you come by.
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