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Angela L Hoy's avatar

Ah, picking blueberries! For a few years when I was a tween and early teen, my family lived in a semi-rural area populated with houses on 1/4 acre lots that were interspersed with small blueberry farms. My friend and I earned pocket money picking berries and I remember rustling my way through the tall (to me) fruit-laden trees looking for the just-right fruit that would earn me a small bonus from the farmer. The smell of warm, ripe blueberries triggers a smile even today, 50 years later. Thank you for this little time machine moment. 😊 🫐

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Barbara ONeal's avatar

What a warm memory!

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Sharona Nelson's avatar

What a lovely piece about the changing of the seasons! And about blueberries--my favorite berry.

Our home has a small wooded backyard. My bedroom is darker now at 7 am than it used to be, despite the large window.

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Barbara ONeal's avatar

It’s coming…

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Lynn Cahoon's avatar

My blueberries aren't loving our mountain soil. I did get a lot of blackberries this spring. Hoping for more next year. I bought some blueberries from a local farmers market and have a couple of bags of those, strawberries, and peaches waiting to be added to my morning smoothies. Loved Memories of the Lost.

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Barbara ONeal's avatar

I still haven't found good peaches here. So glad you enjoyed Memories!

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Sue's avatar

Hi Barbara. I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy your writing. It speaks directly to my heart and soul. I have not yet read your newest book, but I am greatly looking forward to it very soon. You are doing exactly what you were born to do, so thank you!

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Barbara ONeal's avatar

Thank you, Sue!

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Tina Redmond's avatar

I have lived this many times - strawberries, blueberries, raspberries. I didn't have time this year to pick blueberries. But you brought me there with this essay. Thank you.

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Barbara ONeal's avatar

It’s new to me, and still quite a wonder.

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Dana Tanaro Britt's avatar

*sigh* Beautiful essay, Barbara.

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Tommie Wise's avatar

Hi Barbara - I loved your story here. I truly treasure every summer day. I wanted to tell you that I read Memories of the Lost and liked it so much. In a way, it was like reading a fairy tale and after reading it, I felt very satisfied and happy! Tommie Wise

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Barbara ONeal's avatar

A wonderful practice to treasure days! I’m so glad to hear you liked Memories so much. Thank you.

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