Freely Written: Short Stories From a Simple Prompt

Send us a text In today's story, Gnome for Christmas, Doc takes a solitary trip to his cabin in the woods. Today's prompt was inspired by a holiday gnome that was a gift from my friend, Wendy. The gnome sits on the entry table by my front door during the holidays and he always makes me smile. Christmas can bring mixed emotions, but I hope you can find some joy this holiday season. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Turkey Trot, Max learns about a family tradition. Today's prompt was inspired by Thanksgiving, a holiday that often involves eating turkey, putting out turkey-themed decorations, and running races with fun names like turkey trot or gobble wobble. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Pumpkins, a quiet man in a quiet town thinks about pumpkins Today's prompt came up as a way to hold on to the fall season before the winter holidays take over. It turned into a cozy story, opting for comfort and community over the thrill of drama. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Black Cat, a coven gathers to discuss current events Today's prompt was loosely inspired by Halloween and the fall season, which is often rushed through on our way to the winter holidays. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Local News, Joyce helps her grandson with his homework Today's prompt was a local news crew spotted at a scenic overlook during a recent vacation. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Is That Me?, a scientist takes an unforgettable step in her career. Today's prompt came up during a conversation with my friend Gretchen Schutte. You can connect with Gretchen about yoga and meditation on her website: https://www.peaceinthepause.com/ As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Wait For It, two women chat on a bus. Today's prompt came up while thinking about the patience it takes for situations--and people--to grow and change. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Labor of Love, Love reflects on her day's work, including a challenging repair call. Today's prompt came from simple word association as it was written on Labor Day. Labor Day... Labor of Love. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Migraine, a debilitating migraine stirs a stew of thoughts and emotions Today's prompt was inspired by a recent migraine. Being knocked down by a migraine can be physically and emotionally overwhelming. If you struggle with migraines or other health issues, please know that you are not alone. Seek help from friends, doctors, and support groups. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Condesplaining, a new arrival gets a lesson on small town rules Today's prompt is a made-up word. It's essentially a gender-neutral version of "mainsplaining." In other words, it describes the act of explaining something without regard for the listener's expertise. If you have a prompt suggestion, let me know and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode! As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Widgets, a writer wanders through a wobbly chat about whatchamacallits Today's prompt had no obvious inspiration. It just came to me in a flash while wondering what prompt to use. If you have a prompt suggestion, let me know and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode! As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, City Life, some small town kids head to a big city summer camp Today's prompt was inspired by some upcoming vacation plans. While I sometimes like to head to the beach or mountains, I also need a few city trips throughout the year. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Think Tank, what happens when a group of researchers consider the future? Today's prompt came up when I was telling Peter a story about how my mom used to say that I should be put in a think tank someday--which prompted some weird ideas in my young mind. Peter said think tank should be my next prompt, and here we are! As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Never Say Never, a couple tries to write their wedding vows Today's prompt was inspired by a book on my shelf called Never, Never Quit by Karen Hallion (great book!). This story has nothing to do with that book, but the title made me think of the expression 'never say never' and I ran with it. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Reusable Straws, a gathering of drinking straws gives way to deeper meaning. Today's prompt was inspired by a reusable straw sitting on my desk. I didn't expect such a mundane item would lead where it did, but I really like the story that emerged. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Birds of a Feather, a house finch and two mourning doves discuss the new bird feeder in town Today's prompt was inspired by my new smart bird feeder. Watching birds is surprisingly entertaining. Especially when it leads to a fun little story. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text Special Sleep Edition: Today's story, Soft Summer Rain, is a sleepy story that may lull you into a gentle nap or a goodnight's sleep. Today's prompt was inspired by a rainy local authors' event and the drowsiness that came after a day of selling my books to new readers. It's a special story with a softer tone, designed to help you fall asleep. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Infinity Plus One, two sisters argue over who loves cinnamon toast the most. Today's prompt was loosely chosen based on my use of an infinity strap during a virtual yoga class. It's one of my favorite yoga props, a short cotton strap sewn in the shape of an infinity sign or figure eight. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Tread Softly, a young woman reflects on lessons she learned from her older brother. Today's prompt was inspired by a book of the same title. When I was young, I loved Tread Softly by Corinne Gerson. I recently tracked down a copy and was delighted to read it again. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show

Send us a text In today's story, Cake, thoughts of sweets freely ramble Today's prompt is a loose stream of consciousness ramble that begins with sleeping on a bed made of chocolate cake. Or something like that... Sometimes stories have less story and more nonsense. This is one of those times. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. Thank you! More about Susan Quilty Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her current YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to practice her narration skills before she dives into recording audio versions of her novels. Website: SusanQuilty.com Facebook: Freely Written The Freely Written Book: Freely Written Vol. 1 Freely Written merch: Bitter Lily Books Shop Support the show