There’s Something in the Air

Hello, August. I live in the South so, for me, August means hot, sticky days and afternoon thunderstorms that roll in, shake the house, and carry out some of that all encompassing humidity. It means palmetto bugs the size of mice and spiderwebs large enough to ensnare a grown man. And of course, August means the frantic last days of summer. Summer assignments are being crammed into the last remaining week. Parents are prowling for backpacks and glue sticks. And the children are practically vibrating with the last vestiges of summer’s energy.

It’s a frenetic, transitional time of year. And you can’t deny there’s something in the air. An impending danger, relationships in flux, the last days of waiting before fall tears through like those late afternoon thunderstorms and clears the air.

Our stories this month have August’s feel. First up is “The Last Mardi Gras” by Derrick Boden. I know it’s not Mardi Gras, but once you read this one, you’ll understand what I mean about the feel — the atmosphere is undeniably real, thick with longing for what was, and hoping for what might be.

Remember those giant palmetto bugs I told you about? Well, they’re even larger and more menacing in “Bugs Eat Light” by returning FFO author, Izabella Grace. Appreciate the light while you have it. And keep the flashlights handy.

I’m also pleased to bring another FFO alum back in this issue. Stewart C. Baker brings us “Concerning Your Recent Creation of Sentient Horse-Things on the Next Planet Over.” Be careful in how you handle old relationships. You never know when a planet-swallowing whale might be involved.

Finally, a reprint from Rebecca Schwarz, “A Note to Parents Regarding the Beginning and End of Time Diorama Presentations for Ms. Miller’s Third Grade Class.” A little classroom humor for all your back to school needs.

Enjoy!

Anna