Sunset

Solar flares were being reported by all the astronomers and related scientists. Reporters fretted about GPS failure and communications over the North Pole and poetically discussed aurora borealis sightings in Finland and Alaska. But the sunset was spectacular. As was the sunrise for those who were awake enough to look out a window at 6:15. Pinks and blues spread dancing across the sky, tossed by the wind and highlighted by a crystal clear day. Beige stucco houses glowed in the reflection of the sky. Even Hazel's shadow was better than usual. Taller, maybe, and definitely with better hips. A stiff wind was blowing and the huge flag waving over the gas station almost made Hazel feel patriotic as the sun set.

Rupert was feeling frisky too, and as they headed out for their evening walk, his ears were perked up as he prances along - his shadow was looking exceptionally handsome as well. The wind, often his nemesis, was on his side.

It was a hopeful night. The "unicorns" in the attic had been quiet, and new work opportunities were on the horizon. The energy pounding the earth from this solar flares was working. Even without a single New Age bone in her body, Hazel felt renewed. As the pinks and blues faded toward deep purple and then black, there was a new hope in the air.