Gemotions

The list was taped to the inside of the cookie jar, hidden amongst the flour and sugar. Sarah’s fingers, trembling slightly, traced the words. "See the Northern Lights." "Learn to play the ukulele." "Fall in love again." Her jaw dropped. She felt a strange buzzing in her ears. Her mother, whose life had revolved around her, whose greatest joy seemed to be a perfectly clean house and a well-stocked pantry, had dared to dream of such things.

A wave of nausea washed over her. She sank into a kitchen chair, the weight of the list pressing down on her. It was as if a stranger, a vibrant, adventurous spirit, had briefly occupied her mother's body. The aroma of cookies, normally so comforting, suddenly choked her.