A Pocketful of HODGEPODGE

For over 15 years Diane Stroud wrote a story a week when she belonged to a writing group in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. She first heard about the group through her friend Jan. Another friend, B.J., dropped in to see Jan while Diane was visiting. B.J. arrived with some heavenly homemade baked goods from her kitchen, and announced she couldn't stay, as she was on her way to a writers' meeting. Hearing there was actually a writing group in her newly adopted hometown, Diane expressed an interest. "Are you a writer?" B.J. asked. Blushing slightly Diane replied, "Uh, actually, no, but I love to write letters, and many have suggested that I write stories. I sure would like to attend a meeting." B.J. encouraged her, Diane made plans to attend the very next meeting, and an author was born. These are her stories.