The Hummingbird

Laura folds into the patio rocker, breathing in summer’s fragrance. The sun boldly hangs in the bright sky, but today marks the tenth anniversary of that day. Her heart feels heavy.

“I miss you, Mom, and the kids miss their grandma. I just long for another chat, a hug, even one more piece of unsolicited advice.”

She watches a hummingbird soar to the pink geranium hanging from the gazebo. Her mother loved these delightful creatures.

“Is that you, Mom?”

The little bird glides to Laura, hovering at eye level.   

Rocking gently, Laura feels the comfort of her mom’s presence.

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© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com – All rights reserved.
Photo by Frank Cone on Pexels.com


I’ve had fun writing 99-word stories, and I hope you enjoyed this one, too. 🩷

83 thoughts on “The Hummingbird

  1. Sharon Bluhm's avatar Sharon Bluhm

    I’ve heard that deceased loved ones appear in the form of hummingbirds. I’ve talked to my mom a few times that way. Sweet!

  2. Curtis Mekemson's avatar Curtis Mekemson

    Touching story, Lauren, but this made me laugh: “one more piece of unsolicited advice.” Hard not to give at times, especially in a parent/grandparent role.

    1. Thanks for your wonderful comment, Steve. This is fiction but inspired by my mom and me. Writing these 99-word stories is new for me, but it’s been fun and challenging, stepping out of my poetry comfort zone. 🙂

  3. How precious, Lauren! I missed my hummingbirds in California. I left 10 lbs of sugar for for to feed the hummingbirds. I haven’t seen any hummingbirds here but my daughter has one or two, so I’m hopeful.

  4. Such a nice story Lauren!!
    I love these little moments in life that remind us that our loved ones are never that far away.
    Sending you love.
    Enjoy the bank holiday weekend!!

    1. Thanks for your lovely words, Marie. And yes, our loved ones are always near. Moments like these are truly special.
      We have today and tomorrow off, so a long weekend is always nice. 🙂 Love and hugs to you, too! ❤️

  5. Awesome, animals can sense sadness in humans. A couple of days ago when I felt sad remembering my late grandfather my dog jumped on lap and cheer me up. Animals are so beautiful. What a lovely story !

  6. Pretty great 99 word story, Lauren!
    I know many who believe hey have been visited by a passed loved one in animal form,
    It’s a beautiful thought!

  7. Delightful poem Lauren about the Hummingbird. I like the 99 words you wrote here and the way you labelled the bird as Laura and the others here who miss their grandma, it is like I can imagine it in real life💯🙌

    1. I’m so glad you enjoyed this hummingbird story, Mthobisi. It’s been fun writing these short stories and good practice for me, too. My mom who passed years ago was the inspiration for this story. Thank you for your kind comment! 🙏🏻

  8. This is beautifully written, I could really feel the warmth of a mother’s love while reading it. Reminded so much of the presence I have felt since my gran passed.

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