Rassolnik

“Minsk?” Her mouth was agape.

“You’re damn right Minsk! And maybe even the countryside while we’re at it!” His voice firm, eyes steady.

“But I want to go on vacation! What the hell is in Belarus? Why can’t we go to Vegas?” she was indignant.

“It's quiet in Minsk...I think. It looks like we can have a nice, peaceful time for once. Also, I want to try Rassolnik” he trailed off a bit, looking away.

“What is Rassel-nek?” she shot back.

He hesitated before answering “It’s a soup they make there...it has pickles in it”.

“I hate you,” she said.

From Guest Contributor B. Frederick Foley

B. Frederick Foley is a poet, writer, and editor at www.militaryflashfiction.com. A former Navy Intelligence officer, he now spends his time living between Anchorage and Kasilof, Alaska with his wife and three children. His poetry and flash fiction have been published in several online literary journals.

The True Legend Of Santa Claus

Most people are familiar with the Christmas legend of Santa Claus and his reindeer. But only a few know of an alternative legend, about a time long ago in a place far away. That Santa Claus rode a bright red and green dragon. He flew across the countryside looking for those who displeased him. He would then torch their houses, leaving only the stone chimney still standing.

In order to avoid such a fate, the people would leave out offerings for Santa Claus, hoping their gifts would be enough to direct his attention elsewhere. Thus, the Christmas season was born.