Sunday, December 2, 2012

Donny and Marie and Writing



I took a picture of my desk recently and looking at it as a picture instead of as the place I am parked most of the time, I realized the eclectic mix of things that have found their way into my writing space. Like anyone else, only the things that are most important or most inspirational wind up within eyes view. I have my favorite books. Pictures of my sons. A bookmark from Star Island in New Hampshire. A giant stuffed moose. A journal. My Rosie the Riveter lunch box. My Lucas the Crab magnifying glass. A 'Write Like a Motherf*er' coffee mug. A small lighthouse plaque that my father gave me. My candle of the week. My Two Fridas.

And then there is Donny and Marie.

Okay, let me dispel any rumors that I am some huge Donny and Marie fan, posting 8X10's of the brother and sister duo on my desk because I'm in the fan club or anything. Sure, I may be a "little bit country and a little bit rock and roll," but that's not it, either. Oh, no, the meaning of the Donny and Marie photo is much deeper than that.

You see, I have two sons who to my delight,  and at times to my horror, have inherited my strange sense of humor. One day, I mentioned that I wished I had a picture of them together. I mean, for a mother, what could be better than a picture of your two grown children, looking all sassy, looking like they are the best friends, ever, smiling at you every day as you work?

It seemed like a simple request. But Dillon living across the country (as is their excuse), it was difficult for them to get together to have one simple picture made that they both could agree was worthy enough for my desk.

On Mothers Day last year, Theron walked into my office and presented me with an 8X10 envelope.
"What's this?" I said.
"You wanted a picture, there you go."
I tore it open, and there they were: Donny and Marie.
"Uh, thanks, Theron. Not exactly what I expected..."
"Two grown siblings, best friends forever, smiling at you everyday..." He said.
"It's a placeholder. Until Dillon and I get one for you. Just think of us when you look at them."

And in my household. that just makes sense.

So while others may see a picture of Donny and Marie watching over me as I write, I look up at them and see a U.S. Airman and a Doctoral candidate. Two grown children, looking sassy, looking like they are best friends forever.

My boys.


Currently being played by Donny and Marie Osmond

15 comments:

Charlieopera said...

And Bills fans, both! How could you forget that? Bills fans!

rwwgreene said...

Ah, now I get it. Your kids are just as eccentrically creative as you are.

Kelly Stone Gamble said...

See? It all makes sense, now. :)

Gracey Castro said...

Ha! Brillant! A sense humor, a request taken somewhat serious and the final result? A memory wrapped in smiles. Thanks for sharing.

Kelly Stone Gamble said...

Thanks, Gracey. It's never dull around here. And silly memories are in every corner.

Suzanne Shumaker said...

Kelly - that's a great story. And, your writing space inspires me to get mine into some semblance of organization, or at the very least, creative inspiration.

Kelly Stone Gamble said...

Since I pretty much live in this little corner, I like it to at least be halfway organized. The rest of the house, not so much...

Marilyn Bott said...

Thanks for sharing, Kelly! One of these days I need to update the pictures on my desk of my two boys. They're now 17 & 19 but the pictures I have are of them aged 9 & 11. I love who they are now but it's kind of nice to keep the rest of the story around, too.

Kelly Stone Gamble said...

You must get a Donny and Marie! Then you can imagine them at any age you want. :)

Ben Ditty said...

This was a beautiful story. You have some great kids! :-)

Kelly Stone Gamble said...

I do have great kids. :)

Amberr Meadows said...

Your kids are awesome. What a clever, funny idea. They so get their mom.

Kelly Stone Gamble said...

Yes, they are awesome and they understand me perfectly.

Unknown said...

I think you should keep the picture, if nothing to remind you of the memories of how you acquired it. When life gets tough, you can look at it and smile. Then laugh, and remember how great life really it. Great story.

PS On a side note, I saw Donny and Marie perform at a local fair, many, many years ago. I didn't stay for the free concert, but it was fun to see them sing a few of their songs in person.

Kelly Stone Gamble said...

Joan, I saw Marie shopping for cosmetics at 2am at a local Walgreens once. LOL.