In Keith’s words. “Using this photo as inspiration, write a short story, flash fiction, scene, poem; anything, really; even just a caption for the photograph. Either put it (or a link to it) in a comment or email it to me at keithchanning@gmail.com before 6pm next Sunday (if you aren’t sure what the time is where I live, this link will tell you). If you post it on your own blog or site, a link to this page would be appreciated, but please do also mention it in a comment here – pingbacks don’t often work.
Go on. You know you want to. Let your creativity and imagination soar. I shall display the entries, with links to your own blog or web site, next Monday.”
The Photo.
Headquarters by John W. Howell © 2018
“Okay, guys listen up. We have good intel that the enemy has begun moving supplies and personnel into our sector. Yes, what is it, Ames?”
“What kind of intel?”
“Our spotters have confirmed. Okay?”
“Yeah, okay. It’s just those damn spotters have misled us before.”
“That was only because of that corn that was dropped on the highway. May I continue?”
“You’re the boss.”
“So we need to make sure our troops know to enact Plan Red on my command. You all know about Plan Red, right?”
“Yes.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Right so commander.”
“Great then. By the way Ames.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Why are continuing to scratch your ear.”
“I’m not sure sir. It sure itches.”
“Let me have a look at that.”
“My God man you have been infected by the invaders.”
“What does that mean sir.”
“It means the enemy is now upon you. We need to hit you with Plan Red immediately or who knows what will happen.”
“Aren’t there side effects to Plan Red?”
“Oh, a few minor ones.”
“Like what?”
“Palm hair is handled. Tooth growth if ingested. Withered extremities if inhaled.”
“What about if sprayed?”
“No side effects.”
“Why not spray me then.”
“That is probably the safest way.”
“Do it.”
“We can’t.”
“What why not?”
“None of us have been trained.”
“Who is trained then.”
“Only the spotters as far as I know.”
“Tell them to get here quick.”
“Now that’s a problem.”
“Why is that a problem.”
“They are on a corn break right now.”
“Tell them the break is over.”
“Can’t do that.”
“Why not.”
“They are union.”
“So that means?”
“You might want to join the union, fast.”
Fiction Favorites 
Why do I keep thinking the spotters are a bunch of squirrels? Not sure why.
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I was thinking of crows for some reason. I like squirrels better. Thanks, Charles.
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Both work. 😁
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😀
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I think Charles might be on to something. Of course, if the spotters are squirrels, who might the enemy be? Gosh, this is a story that needs a sequel. 😀
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I agree on Charles’ idea. It did turn out to have some legs. Thanks, Gwen.
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“Has anyone figured out what the heck we’re supposed to be doing here?”
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Ha ha ha. Sounds like a business meeting.
😀
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THAT’S what I should have put as the caption!!
“I’ll bet you’re wondering why I called this meeting… if you figure it out, let me know!”
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LOL
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Now my ear is itching!
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I see it is a little red too. 😀
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Here I thought these guys were looking at recent ‘hemmie’ studies! Always good, John! ♥
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LOL. 😀
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🙂
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😀
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I think Charles is right, those guys are always scratching their ears. “Focus!”
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😀
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I kept picturing chickens. Do chickens eat corn?
Clever as always, John!
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Chickens eat corn. I like this idea of chickens being the spotters.
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🙂
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Nicely done, John!
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Thank you, John. 😀
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It actually sounds like a government project.
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Ha haha. I think it is. Thanks, Craig.
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As with anything, there are always side effects. Nicely done, John.
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Thank you, Debbie. 😀
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I would definitly join their union. My first thought with the ear was ticks…lol.
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Me too.
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I am laughing out loud AGAIN! Corn break….Maybe that’s what I need. Too funny, John!
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Thank you , Jan
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John,
I always laugh as soon as I see the pic, because it gets me wondering how you’re going to tackle it. And man . . . when you tackle, you’re like Ray Lewis. Sorry . . I realize you’re a Steelers fan. But the man could tackle!
Union corn breaks! I am going to say this somewhere at some point, to someone. And I promise to give you the credit if they ask what in the hell I am talking about.
Peace and union cards
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I love the idea of “Union Corn Break.” As a gift the phrase is yours. You do not have to give me credit. Might even be the germ of a replacement for the phrase “catch 22.” Thanks Marc. You honor me.
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Hahaha!
This is a big deal John! To bestow replacement status on such a tried and true phrase as “Catch 22” . . . I don’t know what to say!
And thank you for giving me the deed to Union Corn Break. As a token of my gratitude, you may time share the hell out of it. Whenever you want.
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Haha. Those squirrels are quick and stealth. At least I think they’re squirrels. Wait! I have an itch…
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Ha ha ha. Don’t touch that itch.
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😅
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Yep. Squirrel.
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[…] Headquarters by John W. Howell © 2018 […]
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Thank you, Keith.
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