Update February 19 – Sorry folks! We need more time to make our decisions between all these amazing entries! I will get the finalists up just as soon as I can!!!
Roses are red
Violets are blue
Valentinies rock
And so do YOU!
Hang onto your chocolate everyone! It’s time for . . .
The Third Annual Pretty Much World Famous
Valentiny Writing Contest!!!
Valen-tiny because the stories are not very long and are written for little people 🙂
The Contest: since writing for children is all about “big emotion for little people” (I forget who said that, but someone did so I put it in quotes!) and Valentines Day is all about emotion, write a Valentines story appropriate for children (children here defined as ages 12 and under) maximum 214 words in which someone is hopeful! Your someone can hope for something good or something bad. Your story can be poetry or prose, sweet, funny, surprising or anything in between, but it will only count for the contest if it includes someone hopeful (can be the main character but doesn’t have to be) and is 214 words (get it? 2/14 for Valentines Day 🙂 You can go under the word count but not over! (Title is not included in the word count.) If you are so inclined, you are welcome to enter more than one entry – just remember you’ll be competing against yourself 🙂 No illustration notes please!
Post your story on your blog between right now this very second and Wednesday February 14th by 11:59 PM EDT and add your post-specific link on the form below. There will be no Would You Read It or PPBF this week, so the post and the list of links will stay up for everyone to enjoy. If you don’t have a blog and would like to enter, you can simply copy and paste your entry in the comments section below. (Or, if you have difficulty with the comments, which unfortunately sometimes happens, you may email your entry to me and I’ll post it for you! susanna[at]susannahill[dot]com ) Please copy and paste your entry into the body of the email – no attachments! Please only post your entry ONCE! Either on your blog and the associated link list, or in the comment section of my post! Otherwise it gets confusing 🙂
The Judging: My lovely assistants and I will narrow down the entrants to 6-10 top choices depending on number and quality of entries (hee hee hee – you know how much trouble I have with the narrowing, so we’ll see) which will be posted here and voted on for a winner on Monday February 19th (or possibly Tuesday February 20th if the judges need extra time.) The winner will be announced by Friday February 23rd. (And there will be no WYRI or PPBF that week either so that everyone will have time to read and vote and so that we don’t confuse PPBF with announcing winners.) The dates of the judging/voting/winner announcements are subject to finagling depending on how much time the judges actually end up needing!
Judging criteria will include:
- Kid-appeal/Kid-friendliness – remember, this is a story for kids!
- Creativity in using hopefulness and success in making us feel the hopefulness!
- Valentine’s Day appropriateness – this is a VALENTINE story!
- Quality of story – we will look for basic story elements and a true story arc
- Quality of writing – use and flow of language, correctness of mechanics, excellence of rhyme and meter if you use it.
- Originality – surprise us with something new and different! 🙂
The Prizes: Oh, boy, do we have some GREAT prizes! I feel certain you are all highly motivated to compete for these!!!
– a PB manuscript read and critique from Nikki Garcia, assistant editor at Little, Brown!
Nikki Garcia
– a PB manuscript read and phone call critique with Nicole Otto, assistant editor at MacMillan Children’s Publishing!
Nicole Otto
– a PB manuscript critique from the superb multi-published award-winning author/illustrator Iza Trapani
http://izatrapani.com/blog
Facebook
Twitter
– a PB manuscript critique (ms not to exceed 800 words please) along with a follow-up phone call if the author is interested from the lovely and talented Katey Howes, author of Grandmother Thorn (Ripple Grove Press 2017) and Magnolia Mudd and the Super Jumptastic Launcher Deluxe (Sterling Children’s Books 2018)
– a PB manuscript critique from the fantastic Lynne Marie, author of Hedgehog Goes to Kindergarten – illustrated by Anne Kennedy (Scholastic, 2011), Hedgehog’s 100th Day of School – illustrated by Lorna Hussey (Scholastic, January 2017), The Star of the Christmas Play — illustrated by Lorna Hussey (Sparkhouse Family, 2018) and Moldilocks and the 3 Scares (Sterling, pending) . Her stories, poems, folk tales and crafts have appeared in many magazine markets, including Family Fun, Highlights, High Five, Spider, Baby Bug and more. She was a first-round panelis for 2016 Cybils Awards and again, in 2017. In addition, she’s an on-staff writer for Jon and Laura Bard’s Children’s Book Insider and a book reviewer. She lives on a lake in South Florida with her daughter and Anakin, their little Schipperke, as well as several resident water birds. She has offers both critiques and mentorships for writers. You can learn more about her at www.LiterallyLynneMarie.com
– a PB manuscript critique (non-rhyming please) from the wonderful and amazing Melissa Stoller, author of The Enchanted Snow Globe Collection: Return To Coney Island (Spork 2017)
– a signed copy of Charlie Takes His Shot: How Charlie Sifford Broke The Color Barrier In Golf (Albert Whitman 2018) from fabulous author Nancy Churnin accompanied by a terrific Teacher’s Guide (created by Marcie Colleen)
– a signed copy of Twinderella from Corey Rosen Schwartz AND a signed copy of The Enchanted Snow Globe Collection: Return To Coney Island from Melissa Stoller
– a copy of Laura Purdie Salas’s brand new book Making A Living Writing Books For Kids
– a copy of the 2018 Children’s Writer’s and Illustrator’s Market (it’s only February – still very useful!)
I can’t thank these authors and other industry professionals enough for their incredible generosity! Please visit their sites, buy and recommend their books and services to your writer friends and/or friends with kids, write them nice reviews on Amazon, GoodReads etc if you’ve read and liked their books, and show your appreciation to them in any way you can!
Now.
I’m afraid the time has come for my sample (because I would never ask you to do anything I wouldn’t do myself 🙂 )
Brace yourselves for mediocrity 🙂 (I recommend a large quantity of chocolate to get you through – perhaps a dump truck load or so?) and prepare for the return of Boris and Irma (who appeared in the inaugural Valentiny 🙂 )
A Hopeful Kind Of Valentine
(214 words on the nose!)
Three days before Valentine’s, Irma made her list.
“I will make 32 valentines!” she announced. “How many are you making, Boris?”
“Zero,” said Boris.
“Spoilsport,” said Irma. “I hope Norman’s not a spoilsport.”
Irma cut construction paper.
“Are you making pink hearts or red hearts,” she asked.
“Neither,” said Boris.
“Party pooper,” said Irma. “I hope Norman’s not a party pooper.”
The day before Valentine’s, Irma decorated. Confetti hearts and glitter flew everywhere.
Boris ignored her.
But then she said, “I hope Norman will be my Valentine.” She sounded so wishful that Boris looked at her thoughtfully. He had doubts about Norman.
Boris made a list.
On Valentine’s Day, Irma clutched her valentines. “I hope Norman will give me a valentine,” she told Boris on the school bus.
Boris worried.
Tears rolled silently down Irma’s cheeks all the way home. She went right to her room.
Boris went right to work.
At dinner, Irma sat with her eyes downcast and said nothing.
Although Valentine’s was stupid, Boris didn’t want Irma to be sad. If only his plan would work.
He set the pink-frosted, heart-shaped chocolate cake he had made in front of Irma.
“It’s not Norman, but Happy Valentine’s Day,” he said.
“It’s perfect,” said Irma, hugging him.
“Yuck,” said Boris, but he smiled.
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
Everyone feeling better about their stories now? I should certainly HOPE so! 🙂 After that horror show you can post yours with certainty that yours is better! 🙂
I can’t wait to read all of yours! I’m SO looking forward to them! I hope there will be LOTS – the more the merrier! And there are still nearly 5 days to write, so you have time if you haven’t written yet. Feel free to spread the word to your writing friends as well. And your reading friends – parents, teachers, etc. The more people who read and enjoy your stories, the better!!! Also, have I mentioned the number of people who have gotten agents or sold manuscripts to editors based on the writing contest entries over the years? There are quite a few! One of these days I’ll figure out how many and do a blog post 🙂
So!
Contest Entrants, remember to add your post-specific link to the list below so we can all come read your awesome stories! (Post-specific means not your main blog url, but the actual url of the post that has your story in it – otherwise if you post again before the contest ends, your link will take readers… and judges!… to the wrong place!) Please allow a few minutes and possibly refresh your browser before deciding that your link hasn’t posted and adding it a second time or emailing it to me.
Eager Readers – click on the links in the list to visit the blogs and read the stories. And be sure to read the 76 fabulous entries posted in the comment section below!!!
Happy Valentines Week, Everyone! ❤
Scroll through the comments to find these wonderful stories!
- Victoria’s Valentine – Susan
- Victor’s Valentine’s Day Surprise – Sharmaine
- You – Jennifer B
- the most amazing fantastic special Valentine ever – Erin
- The Lost Dog Dilemma – Chris
- Thank You – Katelyn
- Positively Paulina – Nancy
- A Day In The Life Of Cupid – Marty
- Rose And Tulip – M.S.
- The Valentine Monster Crash – Megan
- Valenswine – Susan
- Top Secret Valentine – Marie
- Tiny the Pony Wants to be Special – Kaye
- Grandma’s Cookies – Deborah
- This Will Be The Year – Sara
- Who Sent This Valentine? – Marie
- Hope In A Jar – Anne
- A Fur-Ever Valentine – Beth
- A Card With A Heart – Laura
- Upside Down Valentine’s Day – Ryan
- Not Alone – Amy
- Valentine’s Day Strike – Chambrae
- I Love Ewe – Kirsten
- A Valentine’s Day Adventure – Sarah H
- Adeline’s Hope – Carmen
- Snowy Owl Valentine Delivery – Kathleen
- A Valentine Snowman – Rebecca
- The Heart Art Contest – Marie
- The Right Valentine – Lauren
- The Red Envelope – Karen
- First Grade Love – Darcee
- Mama’s Purple Heart – Anne B
- Valentine’s Day With The Deli Family – Sandra
- Valentine-Making Time – Robin
- Unexpected Valentine – Brian
- The Valentine Tree – Jenny B
- Valentine Treat – Judy V
- A Purrfect Valentine – Mia
- Eliza’s Broken Heart – Anne S
- Porcupine’s Gift – Jim
- Hope’s Valentine – Nancy R
- Yellow And Blue Valentines – Marty
- Tootsie The Wonder Dog’s Valentiny Poem – Kathy
- Sakie’s Flock – Gayle
- Teddy’s Valentine’s Day – Deb
- Dear Daughter – Sandra S
- Mum’s The Word – Judy S
- Hope Floats – Jen B
- Charlotte’s New School – M.R.
- The Valentine Genie – Anne S
- Triple The Love – Brandi
- Emily’s Big Idea – Beth
- Red – Mary
- The Valentine Hat – Gwen
- Winston Wins! – Corine
- Bamboo Panda’s Special Surprise – Liz
- Oh No! Where Did It Go? – Mona
- Sweet Love – Christine
- You Rock! – Karla
- Picture Perfect – Tiffany
- Bunny Hugs – Nina
- Timberdoodle Valentine – Leigh Anne
- Valentine For Mom – Susie
- The Muddy Valentine – Karen
- Chocolaty Delight – Gina
- Valentine Handyman – Meg
- Daisy Power – Patricia
- Cupid’s Graduation Wish – Lucretia
- Huggle And Snug – Stephanie V
- My Valentine – Kurt
- Cupid’s Candy Craving—Marvin’s Valentine’s Surprise – Lucretia
- A Pirate Valentine – Ingrid
- Lily’s Leg – Stephanie K
- If I Gave A Witch A Valentine – Amber
- Bunnies’ Heart-Shaped Hopes – Jen R
- Grumble’s Best Valentine’s Day Ever – Katrina
ENTRY POSTED FOR ANNE
MAMA’S PURPLE HEART (214 words)
Anne Bromley
TJ waited for the nurse to call, hoping it was time for Mama to come home from the hospital. Surely, her heart was better by now. After all, it was Valentine’s Day!
But Papa said, “Not yet, TJ. Mama’s okay. But not yet.”
“Then I have to go to work . . . fast!”
TJ found the perfect piece of cardboard. He drew an almost perfect heart. He searched for a bright red marker but found only purple. That would do. He had a jar of glitter. That would do too.
Papa peeked. “Looking good!”
TJ thought and thought about what to write between the glitter and the glue. But no words came to him. “Time to go,” said Papa. “Visiting hours are almost over.”
Sleet pelted the windshield as they rode across town to the hospital.
As they raced to the entrance, TJ slipped and dropped his cardboard heart into a puddle.
“Oh no!” He screamed. “My Valentine is ruined!”
He carried the wet, messy Valentine to Mama’s room.
“Just in time!” Papa sighed.
Mama looked up with sleepy eyes.
TJ gulped and handed her the purple heart. “Happy Valentine’s Day. Sorry it’s not so good.”
Mama reached out to hug him. “It’s just like mine, sweetie, and it’s the best Valentine ever!”
Sweet story. I wish you well with it.
That grabs your heart. What a tender story. Best of luck with this one!
Aww…both hearts a little worse for wear but still full of love. Such a sweet story! Best of luck!
A lovely and heartfelt story. Thank you!
Nice job.
Poor TJ! No one wants to work that hard on something that important only to have it damaged! But how lovely that Mama appreciated it anyway and Valentine’s Day turned out happy. Thanks for a sweet story, Anne!
ENTRY POSTED FOR SANDRA
Valentine’s Day with the Deli Family
by Sandra Bohman
It was closing time at the family deli, when Jed shouted, “Hey, Pretty Feet, do you want to play tag?
“Sure, Brainy Head,” said Pete.
“Boys, enough with your name-calling, “ said Mrs. Deli. “Jed, you run in the corner for three minutes. Pete, you sing, I Won’t Call My Brother Names five times. I certainly hope you boys learn to get along. Valentine’s Day is almost here.”
“Sorry, Mama,” said the boys hanging their heads.
But on the way to bed, Pete flashed a calculator at Jed.
And Jed flaunted a bottle of perfume at Pete. Both burst into laughter.
“Do I need to come in and tickle you both?” said Mr. Deli.
“No, Dad, we’ll behave,” said the boys.
The next morning, Pete wrinkled up his nose when he picked up his shoes, “Ugh, Heavenly Breeze air freshener!”
Jed gagged when he saw grape gummies arranged on his dresser in the shape of a head.
Mom crossed her arms, “Keep up your shenanigans and there’s no liver and spinach for dinner.”
“We’ll be good,” gasped the boys.
On Valentine’s Day, Pete and Jed gave each other gifts wrapped in white butcher paper.
“Happy Valentine’s Day, Noodlehead.”
“You too, Picklefeet.”
“That’s more like it,” said Mrs. Deli smiling.
I guess it`s all in your choice of words. 🙂 I wish you well with this story.
Oh those crazy deli boys! Love the opposite (liver & spinach and tickling) of each expectation! Best of luck with this, Sandy! 🙂
Those are some silly boys! Fun dialogue in this story! Best of luck!
Yummmm, a tasty valentine’s story. Not sure I’m the best judge of foodstuffs here, though, LOL.
Creative, original take on Valentine’s Day, Sandra! Love the opposite nature of what counts as name-calling and what is considered a treat 🙂 Thanks for a fun entry!
ENTRY POSTED FOR ROBIN
Valentine-Making Time
by Robin Brett Wechsler
(word count: 214)
Since Groundhog Day had past, Punxsutawney Phil was stuck finding ways to fill the time until spring.
He scampered with the squirrels, digging for acorns. But he got tired and the nuts tasted terrible.
He roosted with the chickadees in tree cavities. But he sat there bored and squashed.
He wandered into a yard as a girl trudged home from school.
“Hi, Greta,” said someone at the door. “Why the sad face?”
“I have no ideas for decorating my Valentine cards. And tomorrow is Valentine’s Day!”
Phil flipped.
He wasn’t sure about cards but he knew all about astonishing appearances.
When the people went inside, Phil looked for leaves.
He peeked in the window. Greta stared at stickers.
Phil rounded up red berries.
He peeked in the window again. Greta cried cutting out lopsided hearts.
Phil placed pinecones perfectly with the rest in a heart shape on the porch.
I hope she likes it, thought Phil.
Hearing rustling noises outside, Greta opened the door. She squealed with delight at the sight.
Then a gust of wind blew the art apart. Greta shrieked.
Phil bolted for his burrow.
But on the way, he heard Greta shout, “Thank you, groundhog! I’m going to make groundhog-themed valentines!”
Phil slept the rest of winter with a wide grin.
Clever idea. I wish you well with this story.
Excellent mash-up of Valentines and groundhogs! Love that they each got what they needed. Good luck with this fun story!
Unique and fun idea with the groundhog! Best of luck!
I always wondeedr what Phil does after Groundhog day is over! Clever story. I wish you luck with it!
That’s one clever groundhog. Cute story.
ohhhh! This will be Susanna’s favorite, LOL!
Nice mash-up of Groundhogs and Valentines, Robin 🙂 You know I have a soft spot for any groundhog whose name begins with Punxsutawney 🙂 Glad Phil was able to inspire Greta! Thanks for a fun entry!
-Unexpected Valentine-
Sam worked diligently on his Valentine’s card for Lila.
It had hearts everywhere in red, pink, and purple. And in the middle in big letters Sam wrote,
“Will you be my Valentine?”
Sam pictured the scene when he would give the card to Lila. Lila’s face would light up. And they would walk through the halls holding hands.
It was Valentine’s Day.
Sam looked his best with his card in hand.
Sam stood tall as he walked up to Lila.
“Lila?” said Sam. “I wanted to give you this.”
Lila read the card.
“Sorry, Sam,” said Lila. “But someone already asked me.”
Sam didn’t see that coming.
Embarrassed and heartbroken, Sam walked away.
He threw his Valentine into the trash and wanted to disappear.
The final school bell rang and Sam was eager to go home.
“Um, Sam?” a quiet voice behind him said as he walked out of class.
As soon as Sam turned around he heard,
“Will you be my Valentine?”
It was the new girl.
Sam looked down at the card she gave him. It looked familiar.
It was the card he had made.
Sam looked up.
“My name is Jules,” she said holding out her hand.
Sam took her hand and smiled as they walked down the hall.
Awwww, that`s sweet. I wish you well with this story.
Love happy endings 🙂 Good luck!
So sweet! I wish Sam and Jules the best of everything! Oh, and you too! 🙂
Glad it all worked out in the end. Sweet story.
Some of the best things in life arrive unexpected. Just like this story. Good luck!
Sweet story. Well done.
Very sweet, Brian 🙂 I’m glad Sam found a girl who appreciated him as a valentine – everyone likes to feel loved! Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun!
The Valentine Tree
(212-w)
Deep in the woods in a secret glade, there once grew a Valentine Tree. Inscribed upon each of its heart-shaped leaves were whispers of hope and dreams of love. The tree flourished for years under the care of the cupids.
One hot summer’s day, it was Avril’s turn to watch the tree. But her heart wasn’t in her work. She’d much rather be cooling off in the creek. Surely the Valentine Tree would be alright by itself for a little while? After a final flyover, Avril zipped off to join her friends.
A wild and wicked storm suddenly punctured the afternoon fun. Avril raced back, but she was too late.
Broken hopes and dreams lay scattered across the ground. It was hopeless!
Or was it?
Maybe she could glue the branches back with sticky sap? Or tie them back on? Or plant the leaves? Avril spent all night mending the tree and tending her hope.
And with the power that is love, the broken branches took to the soil. By morning, a blanket of newborn saplings covered the ground.
Deep in the woods in a secret glade, there now grows an orchard of Valentine Trees. Born of love, rooted in hope, they are protected by a determined cupid who never gave up.
~~~
May love embrace you all this Valentine’s Day!
Here`s to never giving up! I wish you well with this story.
Thanks so much!
Cool story. I’d like to find that grove of valentine trees!
Never say never! Intriguing story. Good luck!
Thank you!
Whoops, forget my real name, LOL! “Valentine Tree” by Jenny Buchet 🙂
Thank you! I try to remember who goes with what name, but I’m hopeless when it’s not obvious! 🙂
Very sweet story!
Thank you! There are so many great entries this year!
Precious!
Thank you!! 🙂
I love your story. It reads like a folktale. I love the concept of the Valentine tree. It got me thinking of all the trees that lovers carved their initials into cradled in hearts.
Why thank you so much! 🙂
Love the symbolic nature of this tree.
Thank you very much, Jilanne 🙂
Nicely written.
In light of Wednesday’s cruel tragedy, I’m rereading many of these stories for signs of encouragement, hope and love
So creative! And how lovely that, from broken hopes and dreams, Avril’s love and determination produced an orchard.
Thank you so much! I wanted to share that no one should ever give up
What a lovely image, Jenny! Love the concept of the Valentine Tree and the idea that from the love and commitment of trying to make up for a mistake, even more love and good springs forth. Very original, creative idea! Thanks for joining in on Valentiny!
Thank you so much for your kind words & hosting yet another contest! 🙂
ENTRY POSTED FOR JUDY
Valentine Treat
by Judy Valko
(214 words)
Mom was downstairs frosting Benny’s favorite cupcakes (chocolate) for his Valentine’s Day party.
“Be sure everyone gets a cupcake,” said mom as she handed the container to Benny as he was leaving.
“OK”, said Benny.
“Have fun at school today” said mom. “I saved you a cupcake for a snack after school,”
“Yum!” thought Benny.
He grabbed his backpack and headed out the door.
Next door, Mr. Huggins sat on his porch, alone as usual. Benny thought he must be at least 100.
“Good morning,” said Benny. “Happy Valentine’s Day”.
Mr. Huggins waved back. “Looks like you’ve got some special treats there,” he said.
“Yep,” said Benny. “Chocolate cupcakes! See you later.”
The Valentine’s Day party at school was tons of fun. Benny got 25 valentines, 16 Hershey
kisses, and 5 pages of stickers. But all Benny could think about on the way home was that
delicious chocolate cupcake waiting for him.
When he got into the house, Benny grabbed his cupcake and was just about to take a bite.
Next door, Benny could see Mr. Huggins sitting alone in his kitchen window. Benny made a
decision.
On the front porch Benny rang the bell.
“Hi,” said Benny. He held out the cupcake to Mr. Huggins.
“I hope you have a good Valentine’s Day.”
It`s always wonderful when selflessness rises to the top. 🙂 I wish you well with this story.
Tender and sweet story 🙂 Good Luck!
Oh, this is just lovely. Best of luck 🙂
That’s the way it should be! :}!
What a thoughtful act of kindness. Sweet Benny.
This was lovely.
A sweet story with a sweet treat. Good luck!
Oh, Judy! I know how much Benny wanted that cupcake! But I bet he got even more pleasure out of giving it to Mr. Huggins instead 🙂 What a lovely, selfless, thoughtful Valentine 🙂 Thanks for joining in the contest fun!
Yay! for pet adoption! I wish you well with this story.
Awww! I love kittens and adopting animals that need homes. What a sweet story.
Eliza’s Broken Heart
“Happy Valentine’s Day Eliza!” said George.
“Hello George,” said Eliza.
“What’s wrong?” asked George.
“My heart, it’s broken,” said Eliza.
Oh no, thought George! He couldn’t let his friend’s heart be broken, not on Valentines Day! He had to fix it, but with what? Then he had an idea!
“Wait right here!” George ran home.
“I’m back,” said George.
“What is all this?” asked Eliza
“It’s Valentines stuff, you know, to make you happy. Look, here are a few of the roses my dad gave my mom and some of the chocolate candy my mom gave my dad and here is a love note my sister got from her boyfriend. Yuck.”
“Uh,” said Eliza. “Thanks, but did you bring any glue?”
“Glue?” said George.
“Yes,” said Eliza. “To fix the clay heart I made for you in art class.”
“Ohhhh,” said George. “I thought you meant your real heart was broken.”
George looked down. “I was hoping all this stuff would fix it.”
“I know!” said Eliza. “How about we put the flowers in a vase, eat all this delicious candy and then go find some glue to fix my, I mean your, broken heart.
George smiled, “And let’s bring this gross love note back to my sister.”
“Definitely!” Said Eliza.
Funny misunderstanding, and re-purposing of gifts. 🙂 I wish you well with this story.
A good twist on this one! Well done! 🙂
Nice switch-a-roo-ski! I’m thinking that gross love note is going to get recycled. Ha!
This was fun to read.
Sweet and original. I love how George brought along his sister’s love note 🙂 I can tell this pair get along famously!
I love the twist of which heart is broken. Good luck!
Hahaha! A funny misunderstanding! But George cared so much for Eliza that he’d even go so far as procuring a yucky love note… thought luckily they shut that down but quick 🙂 Thanks for a nice twist on the traditional broken heart, Anne – glad this one came out okay!
Unique and fun idea with a groundhog MC! Best of luck!
Porcupine’s Gift
By Jim Chaize
As Valentine’s Day approached, Porcupine was sad.
He knew he’d get cards and maybe a gift, but probably not what he wanted the
most.
So, Porcupine decided to ask his friends.
“A hug?” said Squirrel. “We can’t.”
“Your quills are too prickly,” said Skunk.
“I know. Why did I have to be a porcupine?”
“Really?” said Skunk, “my nickname is Stinky Dinky?”
“Mine’s Whats-He-Nutsy,” added Squirrel.
“All I want is a hug.”
That night, Porcupine drew cards for Squirrel and Skunk.
He baked nut-berry muffins for their gifts.
Porcupine was certain Squirrel and Skunk would smile at their
cards, gobble up the muffins, and say “thank you.”
And that would be all. No hugs.
On that same night, Squirrel and Skunk made cards for Porcupine, and
sewed together his gift.
The next morning, Porcupine found his friends in the forest.
“For you,” he said.
His friends smiled at their cards, gobbled up the muffins, and said
“thank you.”
And that was all.
Until Squirrel and Skunk yelled, “Happy Valentine’s Day!”
Porcupine read his card, “Valentine’s Day Suits You Perfectly,
With Hugs, Squirrel and Skunk.”
He opened his gift. His eyes twinkled.
“Put it on,” said Skunk.
Porcupine’s new bark suit was ideal, for hugs with his two best
friends.
awwwww, as a hugger I get this. 😉 I wish you well with your story.
Love it! So sweet.
Very cute story! Must be the year for Valentine’s porcupines … I have one as my MC too! 🙂
I’m reading this one to my daughter! She runs a blog called Free Hug Dealer where she will draw any two friends hugging or in a friendly situation. What a friendly story for Valentine’s Day!
Hmm, barking up the porcupine’s tree. Just the perfect way to get those hugs in from porcu’s best friends. Nice story!
Love this! Bark suits may just be the new fashion.
Cute story. Glad that Squirrel and Skunk were so resourceful! Nice!
Very cute and I love those nicknames. 🙂
It takes good friends to come up with the perfect solution, Jim 🙂 So glad Porcupine got his hugs – we all need them! 🙂 Thanks so much for a wonderful entry!
Hope’s Valentine – 214 words
Emma skipped to her porch munching a Valentine’s cookie. As crumbs dribbled down, a tongue reached out from under the steps. “What?” She scrunched down and a dog’s nose nudged her hand. Emma yelled through the door, “Mom, come quick!”
“Goodness,” said her mom, kneeling next to Emma. “She’s starving. Let’s get her inside.”
Emma reached in, “There’s . . . a puppy!” She clasped a wiggly, chocolate-colored pup in her hands. “Look, there’s a white heart on her forehead! I’m calling her, Valentine!”
The dog snuggled up to Emma and her puppy. Something sparkled through her matted fur – a tag. Emma squinted and read, “Hope.”
The dog’s tail thumped.
“Are you Hope?” Thump. Lick. Emma called the number etched on the tag.
“Hello?”
“Hi, I’m Emma Willett. Do you have a dog named Hope?”
“Heavens, she’s been missing a year. Is she okay?”
“Yes, but very hungry,” said Emma, giving the woman her address.
“I’ll be there soon.”
Later, Hope whined as Emma greeted a silver-haired woman.
Hope flew to her, wiggling from nose to tail. Joy lit the woman’s face, replaced by concern as the puppy scampered up. “I can’t keep them both. Would you like the puppy when she’s old enough?”
“Oh yes!” cried Emma. “She’ll be my chocolate Valentine!”
What a sweet story. I wish you well with it.
Thanks so much!
How sweet! Good luck!
Thanks!
Aw, a valentine puppy. A perfect furry friend. And perhaps a chocolate lab?
Thanks! Maybe a chocolate lab or at least part lab!
Aw! What a sweet story, Nancy! My absolute fantasy when I was a kid 🙂 I’m glad Hope turned up and found her home and owner and Emma got her Valentine puppy! 🙂 Thanks for this sweet entry!
Thanks so much. My Brittany, Scout, has a white heart on his head and he was a little bit of inspiration for my story.
ENTRY #2 POSTED FOR MARTY
Yellow and Blue Valentines (205 words)
by Marty Bellis
What do you do when your class Valentines
need to be ready by quarter to nine,
and the paper you have is yellow and blue
and the marker you find is a sickly green hue?
Do you cry, do you frown,
do you let out a groan?
Do you HOPE the party’s cancelled
and everyone stays home?
or……………..
Do you make heart-shaped cookies
and HOPE they’re ok?
Now there’s a plan.
But you best not delay.
It will take a good hour.
Do you have the right pan?
Lots of sugar and flour,
pretty sprinkles and butter?
And a heart cookie cutter?
Oh dear, don’t be sad.
There’s no reason to mutter.
That would be a big job
and make lots of clutter.
Don’t panic. Don’t freak.
Yes, the outlook is bleak.
Just go back to Plan A.
It’s the thought, as they say.
Bring out those scissors
and snip, snip away.
Yellow and blue hearts are better than none.
They’ll be a bit different, and that might be fun.
Now add a message, and then you’re all done.
What if you say, “Happy Valentine’s Day.
A red heart is fine. But I HOPE you like mine.
It’s yellow and blue — made especially for you.”
Cute story, and yes, It’s the thought that counts. 🙂 I wish you well with this.
What positive spin!
I would accept any color valentine from those I love. It’s the ❤ that counts, right?
Yes, any color valentine is perfectly fine! Good luck!
It’s definitely the thought that counts, Marty, and who wouldn’t love the originality of a yellow and blue valentine? Nice to have variety 🙂 Thanks for another great entry!
ENTRY POSTED FOR KATHY
Tootsie the Wonder Dog’s Valentiny Poem
by Kathy Brown and Tootsie too🐾
word count 88
Tootsie the wonder dog smells excitement in the air
Woofity…woof, as she prances with flare
I think a poem is something I wish to share
Roses are red
The ocean is blue
Today is a greeeaaat day
We must not boo-woo
Woofity woof and yippee-yahooo
Valentiny day is in full bloom
It’s time to make heart shaped cookies
And dance to some tunes
As we open our hearts
With kindness and caring
Remember that today and everyday
Is all about love and sharing
Happy Valentiny Day!
Chocolate cookies of course! For Valentiny day! 🙂
Thank you, Tootsie and Kathy, for a fun poem. Woof!
Hopes-tango! Thanks for sharing!
I’m thinking maybe Tootsie’s heart shaped cookies were dog biscuits 🙂 What a lovely image of Valentines with the kindness and caring and dancing! Thanks for a lovely entry, Kathy!
Cookies and kindness, very nice. I wish you well with this story.
ENTRY POSTED FOR GAYLE
Sakie’s Flock by Gayle Veitenheimer
Sakie crossed her fingers. “I hope I get lots of Valentines next week.”
“My little blossom, we just moved. Friendship takes time, but you know the saying.” Her mother grinned. “If you make 1,000 origami cranes, your wish will come true.”
“1,000?” Sakie wilted.
Okaasan laughed. “I’ll help with the first one.”
Sakie and Okaasan cut paper and folded it. And folded and folded and folded. Soon paper cranes soared through the house.
At school, Sakie made cranes during free time.
“What are you doing?” asked Jeffrey.
“Origami. If I make 1,000 cranes, my wish will come true.”
Jeffrey whistled. “Why cranes?”
“Cranes stand for hope when things are hard.”
“Could I make one?”
Together they made cranes. Short, tall, fat, thin.
Soon Natalie joined them. “Would you make one for me?”
All week Sakie made paper cranes. Her fingers ached, but her flock grew. She fell asleep each night surrounded by hope.
On Valentine’s Day, sacks with lacy hearts lined the classroom. Sakie had made hundreds of cranes, but 1,000? She couldn’t look.
At the party, cranes soared through the room.
“Aren’t you going to open your valentines?” Jeffrey dropped her sack on the desk. Thump. Swish. Shuffle. Sakie peeked inside.
Envelopes filled the sack and her heart took flight.
Sweet and happy!
I wish you well with this hope-filled story.
1,000 cranes is magical number, isn’t it? Anything could take flight with all those beating wings, especially hope and love.
This is such a great story. I love the how the cranes symbolize hope. Very nice!
Unique idea! I like how the others help her make the cranes. Sweet.
Such a sweet story. Love the image of all th cranes around the room.
Such a nice story, Gayle! I love that her family started her off and in the making of her cranes to fulfill her wish she actually made friends with Jeffrey and Natalie… and probably some others 🙂 So nice that her Valentine sack was full 🙂 Thanks for a creative entry!
Teddy’s Valentine’s Day (209 Words) – Deb Sullivan (sullyweston@me.com)
Teddy lives on a shelf.
Third row down, second space in.
Plush poodle sits to his left.
Fancy Franny to his right.
“Look, Grampa” says Charlotte, bouncing down the aisle. “Baby Becky eats and pees!”
“Isn’t that something,” says Grandpa.
“She’s perfect!” Charlotte beams.
Teddy is a bear. He has no accessories. He doesn’t pass gas.
He has never been called perfect.
But tomorrow is Valentine’s Day. How thrilling to be loved on such a special day.
One by one, children scan the aisles for their dream toy.
PLUCK! There goes Lovable Lulu.
SWIPE! Good-bye Hug Me Hippo.
SNAG! See ya, Singing Susie.
Teddy sits up straight, shaking with excitement as each child passes.
“Please pick me,” Teddy whispers.
“What about this guy?” says Grandpa, picking up Teddy.
“C’mon gramps,” says Charlotte.
“He doesn’t DO anything.”
Grandpa quietly puts Teddy back.
As the day wears on, the shelves thin out.
“Five minutes until closing,” a worker shouts.
Teddy shuts his eyes. If only….
KLOP! KLOP! KLOP!
“You’re still here!” Charlotte darts down the aisle, scooping Teddy off the shelf.
Grampa smiles.
“Baby Becky peed on me,” Charlotte sniffles in Teddy’s ear.
Then she hugs Teddy tight.
“YOU are perfect.”
Teddy’s heart swells. Just in time for Valentine’s Day!
Ahhh, i laughed out loud! Very fun! 🙂
Sometimes just BEING is enough. I wish you well with this story.
That peeing thing does put one off, doesn’t it? And the essence of this story reminded me of Corduroy. Sweet Corduroy.
I loved all the funny jokes and toy names and what a sweet ending. Very nice!
I’m glad Teddy got his Charlotte. Sweet!
Aw! Sweet, patient Teddy! So glad his hopeful waiting paid off by giving Charlotte time to realize his sterling qualities… which Grampa knew all along 🙂 Thanks for your sweet, humorous entry, Deb!
ENTRY POSTED FOR SANDRA
Dear Daughter
By Sandra Sutter
Hope isn’t a four-letter word,
A wish, or a prayer.
People like Tony Thompson,
Pulling your hair just as surely as he pulls your heartstrings,
You need not cry about that.
Vexing as it is,
A boy like him
Learns what matters when it’s much too late;
Eleven years from now.
Not just on a day like today,
This Valentine’s Day.
Inviting you to accept a card and candy.
Names filled out on a blank space.
Eager as you may be to accept this token,
Stow it away, with hope that people can change, even Tony Thompson.
Dear daughter,
Always, not just today,
You can be MY Valentine!
Oh my, there’s a story here. Hope all is well!
Thanks for reading! Actually, no story behind it other than I imagine a parent having a conversation like this with a daughter who gets picked on by a boy who also gives her a valentine on Valentine’s Day. Plus, the first letter of each line together spells, “HAPPY VALENTINES DAY” 🙂
That”s so very clever!
Encouraging that people DO change. I wish you well with this story.
I love this love letter to a daughter. Very sweet and filled with heart.
Oh, gosh! It can sure be hard when your love for someone like Tony Thompson isn’t returned. But a mother’s understanding and constant love certainly helps 🙂 Thanks for a lovely entry, Sandra!
MUMS THE WORM – 214 words
Wendell Worm squiggled up to the Valentine’s Day cards.
A sign said, SOLD OUT!
“Oh NO!” thought Wendell. “How will I let Juanita Worm know I want her to be my Valentine?
Worms don’t talk. We can only think.
I have no feet so I can’t dance to show my feelings.
I have no hands to write down a love poem.
I hope I can think of some way to let Juanita know I want her for my Valentine!”
Wendell thought and thought. Before long he was all twisted up into a knot. That’s when he came up with his plan.
Soon, Juanita came inching up the sidewalk.
“Here goes,” thought Wendell.
He turned and squirmed until from one end to his other end he formed a heart.
When Juanita saw what Wendell did she thought, “That’s the sweetest thing any worm has ever done!”
She stretched herself straight across the heart to show Wendell that Cupid’s arrow had struck her, too. She loved Wendell!
Together, Wendell and Juanita wriggled off to spend the rest of their lives together digging in the earth.
Sometimes, on rainy days, whenever they get washed up onto the sidewalk, Wendell twists himself into a heart and Juanita stretches herself into an arrow…just to show their squirmy, wormy love.
Haha – 2 worms in love! So sweet!
You gotta love squirmy, wormy love!
Judy, this is a fantastic story with a brilliant title! I love the fact that Wendell´s idea came when he was all twisted up into a knot 🙂 Wendell did the best he could with what he had. This story has nice visual potential too. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Pretty cute, and a different story idea. I wish you well with it.
squirmy, wormy love. Nice! Have you read “Worm Loves Worm”? I think you’d like it!
This was a wonderful wormy romance! Good luck.
Only fair to give the worms a little love too!
This just wormed its way into my heart! Good luck!
Hahaha! I’m not sure quite why I love Wendell and Juanita and their squirmy wormy love so much, but I sure do! Love that Wendell didn’t let the fact that he couldn’t talk or dance or write stop him from figuring out a way to declare his love! True love will out 🙂 Thanks for a wonderful, original and creative entry, Judy!
HOPE FLOATS
By Jen Bagan
(213 words)
Po stuck the last of the cotton balls to his quills just in time to line up for the Valentine’s Day Rubber Raft Race-Off.
Po had to admit that a rubber raft race was not an ideal event for a porcupine, but he had to impress Stella. She was the sweetest, shiniest, speediest seal he’d ever known … and she loved the water. When Stella witnessed his aquatic prowess, she’d surely be his Valentine.
“Hey Puff Ball!” called Oscar. “I bet you pop that raft in five seconds flat!”
Po ignored him. Otters were the worst.
Suddenly it was time.
GO!
Po rowed with all his might and pulled ahead of the pack.
I’m doing it! I’m winning! he thought.
He saw Stella cheering and surged ahead.
But then …
POP …. POP…. SSHHOOOOSSHH
The raft was in tatters.
Po thrashed and spluttered in a sea of cotton.
This is not impressive, he thought.
Po prepared to sink to the dark depths below.
He waited … and waited.
But Po wasn’t sinking. He was floating!
He swished his paws this way and that. He was swimming!
I never knew I could swim! Po thought.
He swam across the finish line – dead last. But Stella was there waiting.
“Now that was impressive,” she said.
Can porcupines really float? That’s a fun story!
Thank you Ingrid! Yes! As Lynn noted below, porcupines have hollow quills and do actually float (and swim!)
Nice story! And convenient for Po that his hollow quills helped him float. I wish you well with this story.
Thanks so much, Lynn! I never knew about the hollow quills until a few weeks ago! 🙂
Those otters may be the worst, but they are often right. Ha! Glad Po floated and made it to the finish line!
Damn those otters! Haha – thank you Jilanne!
The things we do for love:) I am glad Po discovered a new strength and his sweetheart was impressed. A cute story.
Thank you so much Corine!
Very nice. I’m a wildlife biologist and I just learned something new – porcupines float!
Good for Po! Go, Po, go! I love that he didn’t let the destruction of his raft deter him and that he powered on across the finish line to his love! Love the interchange between Oscar and Po, and Po’s line “this was not impressive” 🙂 Thanks for an entertaining entry, Jen!
Love it! Good luck!
Poor Po! So glad Stella thought he was impressive! Such a cute story!
Thank you, Judy! Appreciate you stopping by!
Charlotte’s New School (213 words) M. Rudzinski
“Class, meet our new student …Charlotte.” .
Charlotte forced a shy smile.
“Do your best to follow along- glad you are here”
Charlotte disappeared quickly behind a stack of new books on her desk.
Charlotte dared not look around.
Her tummy growled. Her hands felt icy.
The morning lasted forever.
Charlotte wished she was invisible.
At lunchtime, students laughed and friends shared lunches.
Charlotte just listened.
She wished Sara was here.
And her bus driver, Miss Lilly.
And all of Lincoln School.
After lunch, Charlotte stared at her Math paper.
4 hearts + 18 hearts = ?
Charlotte swallowed hard.
Valentine’s Day!
With moving and getting ready for school, she forgot about Valentines Day.
“Class, you have a few minutes to finish any cards you have made.”
Charlotte’s eyes blurred as she tried to think quickly.
She found her scissors,
some paper,
And a red crayon.
Carefully she wrote, “Your friend, Charlotte” as fast as she could, 16 times.
As Charlotte slowly handed out the 16 hearts, she hoped someone might have one extra Valentine for her desk.
But, at least, Charlotte had some valentines to give the class.
Charlotte slowly trudged back to her desk.
16 Valentines
covered her new books.
“Happy Valentines Day Charlotte!”
everyone yelled.
Moving is not so bad after all thought Charlotte.
So happy it ended well! 🙂
That’s a lovely welcome. I wish you well with this story.
Big sigh of relief, right? I’m glad Charlotte has a thoughtful group of new friends.
So sweet!
Sweet ending. What a nice class.
Love how quick-thinking Charlotte found a way to offer her friendship in a new place and that her classmates turned out to be a step ahead, M! That’s what Valentine’s Day is all about. I think Charlotte will like her new school 🙂 Thanks for an uplifting entry!
Funny, sweet, and wonderful. A fantastic story.
THE VALENTINE GENIE
“I hope the Valentine Genie comes tonight,” said Teddy
“The who?” said Eliza.
“The Valentine Genie,” said Teddy. “You know like Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy. There must be a Valentine Genie.”
Eliza shook her head. “There is no such thing as a Valentine Genie.”
“We’ll just see about that,” said Teddy.
The next morning Eliza opened her eyes. Teddy was sitting on her bed.
“The genie didn’t come,” he said sadly.
“I told you, there is …” Eliza stopped. “Let’s go downstairs. Maybe we will see something.”
They peeked in the kitchen.
Mom handed Dad a cup of coffee and Dad handed Mom a plate filled with pancakes.
“Nothing,” whispered Eliza.
“Meow.”
“Nothing in the hallway either,” said Teddy, patting the cat and pouring some food into his bowl.
“Let’s look outside,” said Eliza. “Come ‘on, I’ll help you with your boots.”
Outside they saw Mr. Wilson.
“Hey kids! Could you help me fill the bird feeder? Mrs. Wilson isn’t feeling well, but she loves watching these birds from the window.”
Eliza and Teddy filled the feeder and waved to Mrs. Wilson.
Eliza smiled. “You know what Teddy. I think the Valentine Genie did come and you know what she brought? Love.”
“And pancakes,” said Teddy. “Race you back!”
Sweet story. I love that dad made the pancakes!
This is a great idea! You could do even more with more than 214 words! 🙂
Anne, I enjoyed your story. Sometimes we try too hard. When we open our eyes and look around us, love pops up everywhere!
Such a sweet story. I wish you well with it.
You never know what that genie will bring. In this case, love is more than welcome. Nice story!
Fun idea for a Valentine’s story and a nice ending!
Such a sweet story, Anne! Of course there should be a Valentine Genie and of COURSE the she’d bring love… and plenty of it! This story is filled with it. So heartwarming 🙂 Thanks for a very creative entry!
Triple the Love by Brandi King Cooper 214 words
Cindy’s dad married a woman who had triplets the same age as Cindy. She was excited and hopeful they would be the best of friends. But, they played mean tricks on Cindy. One night, she found they had sprinkled cereal crumbs between her sheets. She just grabbed her waste basket and brushed them off without a word. “Goodnight, Sara. Goodnight, Hannah. Goodnight, Emma.”
Another time, the triplets made peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for themselves and even one for Cindy. But when she bit into it…. yuck, pepper. She excused herself and went to the kitchen to make a new sandwich. When she returned, she gave each of the girls one of the chocolate chip cookies she had made earlier in the day.
The next day was Valentine’s day and Cindy was determined to win the girls over. That night, she gathered all her fancy papers and pretty ribbons and made special cards for each of them. The next morning the triplets gave cards to their mom, her dad and to each other but none to Cindy. She ran to her room heartbroken where she saw all the pretty cards and paper flowers covering her bed. Then the three girls slipped into the room and hugged Cindy.
Love wins! Three new sisters for Cindy.
I worried! Glad it ended well!
Sometimes it’s hard to see things through, but it pays off in the end. Nice story. I wish you well with it.
Wow! Cindy is quite mature to handle things this way. Good for her! I’m glad it worked out instead of finding that she had three evil new sisters.
So glad it worked out well, Brandi! Kudos to Cindy for keeping on trying! Thanks so much for joining in the Valentiny fun!
ENTRY POSTED FOR BETH
Emily’s Big Idea by Beth Wilcox
Emily stood eyes glazed in front of a sea of red and pink cards in the store. I’ll never be able to find the perfect card Emily grumbled.
She looked and looked and looked until her eyes became blurry and her legs were wobbly. She thought this special card can’t possibly be found.
Emily walked away dragging her feet in the snow. The wind blew a small feather, which landed right on the top of her shoe. She quickly picked up the feather and put it safely in her pocket.
Emily fidgeted at the table, thinking and thinking about the card.
A big smile came over Emily’s face, the feather she thought, a card that’s not a card .
She dumped out her playdough and got to work. Molding the best heart shape she could and popping the feather into the dough.
Concentrating and focused Emily wrote on the heart with a uncooked piece of spaghetti. “You are the best mommy ever” I love all the delicious food you cook for me.
Love Emily
The next day Emily handed mommy the heart. Mommy snuggled Emily tight, I love that you thought to make me something so special.
Emily beamed, and said” The perfect card turned out just perfectly”. Happy Valentine’s Day.
That’s creativity for you! Lovely!
Handmade is always the best!
What a nice idea. I wish you well with this story.
Perfection can be found inside a heart of love. Glad Emily discovered how to make the perfect card.
I think the perfect Valentine is always the one you make yourself that comes from the heart! Lucky Mommy and thoughtful Emily! 🙂 Thanks for a sweet entry, Beth!
ENTRY POSTED FOR MARY
Red
By Mary Warth
She read my face,
with just one look.
My bright red face-
an open book!
Red cheeks
Red chin
Red neck
Red nose.
She read my face
And now she knows.
I sent the card,
without my name.
but now my face
takes all the blame.
Red hearts
Red paint
Red “X”
Red “O”s
She read them all
And now she knows.
I hope that what my good friend read,
will please, please stay inside her head!
She gave a nod, a smile, a wink.
My bright red face cooled down to pink.
This is FABULOUS! I’m a sucker for rhyme and this is super clever! Good luck!
Mary, I love this! All that RED. A moment we can all relate to 🙂
This is sweet. Nicely done. I wish you well with it.
I absolutely LOVE the shape of this poem! Waves of love. Very nice rhyme, too. Cheers!
This is fantastic! I love the rhyme, and the story. Really great job!
Nicely done! From one who easily embarrasses and has been known to show it…
Love the rhyme! Great job!
Beautifully written, Mary! Great job conveying an embarrassed boy’s emotion 🙂 Love the ending! Thanks for a great entry!
ENTRY POSTED FOR GWEN
The Valentine Hat
By Gwen Hulley
Zoey woke early to find a valentine. She wanted to share the day with someone special, but who?
Wearing her Valentine hat would surely attract a special valentine!
She soon saw Belinda the bird scrambling about picking up and dropping slippery worms.
“Good morning! Do you like my hat?”
“Sure, but I’m struggling to get these slippery worms up to my nest for my babies!”
Zoey pulled off her hat, and filled it with worms.
“Now I can fly the worms to my babies!” exclaimed Belinda. And she did.
However, Belinda did not ask her to be her valentine.
Next, Zoey ran into Sam the dog, squinting in the midday sun.
“Greetings, Sam! Do you like my hat?”
“Fine, but I’m busy searching for my best bone in this bright sun!”
Zoey put her hat on Sam’s head to provide shade. Momentarily, Sam found his best bone sticking out from under a bush.
“Fantastic!” Sam cried. Now I can enjoy my favorite bone on this special day!” And he did.
Still, no valentine offer.
Zoey moped home for dinner, but when she arrived, she was surprised to find Belinda and Sam shouting, “Be our Valentine!”.
“You liked my hat?”
“Not the hat, but that you used it to help us!”
I’m always happy when love comes around. Nice story!
Gwen, I enjoyed your story. Zoey is a sweet and kind soul. I am glad her friends realised that and they got to share Valentine’s Day together in the end.
Thoughtfulness is always a wonderful gesture. I wish you well with this story.
Zoey’s good deeds come back in good karma. Yay!
That’s exactly it, Gwen – not the hat but the helpfulness behind it 🙂 Sweet Zoey certainly deserved Valentines! 🙂 Thanks for an original, fun entry!
ENTRY POSTED FOR CORINE
Winston Wins! (213 words) — Corine Timmer (www.bicadeideias.com)
Winston the Woodpecker couldn’t sleep. He only had one thing on his mind—the redhead he had spotted the previous day. A crimson colour so deep, it had set his heart aflutter. She was the hen he wanted to invite to the Spring Ball.
But he was not the only one.
Some of his friends had noticed her too—and they were bigger and better drummers. Their neck muscles were stronger and their bills thicker and sturdier. They drummed for long periods of time without effort.
How can I compete? Winston pondered. Everyone knew that the best and loudest drummers got the nicest hens—and this hen was dazzling.
All through the night, Winston thought of a plan to win her heart. But it was not until the waste collectors arrived to empty the bins, that an idea popped into his mind.
So, the next morning, instead of squabbling over a few dead tree trunks, Winston flew to one of the empty litter bins, gripped the rim, and started to drum.
RAT-A-TAT-TAT, RAT-A-TAT-TAT-TAT-TAT, RAT-A-TAT-TAT-TAT-TAT-TAT.
The surrounding trees and houses shook as the sound bounced off them. Winston drummed and drummed until he had caught the attention of all the hens. But he was only interested in the one.
Had she heard him?
CUK-CUK-CUK-YEAH!
I know this woodpecker! He used to beat on something in our back yard in the early morning. 🙂 I wish you well with this story.
Thanks, Lynn. They are quite resourceful and the drumming can be SO loud!
I love woodpeckers! And I love your story, too! Good luck!
Thanks, Jilanne.
Yay Winston! Cute story!
Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it.
I don’t know why, but this line surprised me and made me laugh: “He only had one thing on his mind—the redhead he had spotted the previous day.” Perfect delivery–and such tight, clean writing throughout. Well done!
Delfina, thanks for your feedback. Contests like this one are helping me improve my writing. Red-headed woodpeckers’ entire heads and necks are a deep red. Quite stunning 🙂 It was love at first sight for Winston 🙂
That line was perfect. It prompted me to run an image search for woodpeckers, and I agree–they are stunning! So impressed by your writing, Corinne. Good luck-luck-luck-yeah! 😀
Delfina, I am so glad it prompted you to run an image check. That´s one of the things I hope to achieve with my stories (curiosity and a love for wildlife). Good luck to you too!
Fun, clever story that teaches us about woodpeckers as a bonus! Very creative, Corine! And how clever of Winston to think of hammering away on the litter bins! 🙂 Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun!
I’m a dog person and this still made me want to adopt a cat! Good luck!
What an original idea! Very fun! 🙂
Thanks, Ingrid. It´s a last minute entry but I always enjoy these contests and they are good practice too.
Bamboo Panda”s Special Surprise!
At the San Diego zoo, lived Bamboo! She cuddled with her daddy every day. One bright February morning, she wanted to give daddy a special Valentine surprise. She HOPED he would love it! It was green. It was crunchy. It was just-right munch. It was bamboo! She sealed her gift with a kiss from dad and signed it, “Love, Bamboo.” She began making a stick-stone heart when…
Oh, no! Oh, no, no, no! Brother panda bear quietly munched on Bamboos special surprise! But, he had only made a mistake. Bamboo sadly took a walk in her enclosure….until she spotted a little girl above . The little girl blew Bamboo a Valentine kiss! With arms outstretched, Bambio caught the kiss! She ran to find her father. There he was. She stopped and blew HIM the kiss. “For you, Daddy! An angel’s kiss!” said Bamboo. Daddy smiled and looked up where he saw a little girl with a sign that read. “A special Valentine from me to zoo!”
Liz Steffenson
Very cute! 🙂 I wish you well with this story.
Gives new meaning to blowing a kiss, doesn’t it? Sweet Bamboo!
So sweet, Liz! Impossible not to love Bamboo who loves her daddy so 🙂 Thanks for this darling entry 🙂
Fabulous story, Susanna! Tugging at the heart strings and all. Boris is a sweetheart. Sniffle. My entry is not up to snuff, but I didn’t have time to fiddle with it anymore, sorry to say. Sometimes the muse is out to lunch—and dinner….thanks for hosting this big party! Cheers!
Thanks, Jilanne! You’re too kind 🙂
Oh No! Where Did It Go? 204 words
by Mona Pease
Marci hurried.
Cutting…
Pasting…
Printing…
She sprinkled the heart with a gallon of glitter!
Knock! Knock!
Marci tucked the card away. Red was there. They were off to deliver Valentine’s to their forest friends.
Tracking…
Climbing…
Sneaking…
Red scampered to Gray squirrel’s hole and dropped cards in.
Marci tiptoed into Bear’s den, hoping not to wake her.
They stopped by Deer’s, and Mouse’s houses.
Marci snuck up behind Owl who didn’t notice. He stared straight ahead.
She stood guard while Red dropped cards in Fox’s den,
Marci tried warning Red that Fox wasn’t home. He darted straight for them.
She ran.
Fox chased.
Marci turned.
Smiling…
Laughing…
Dead!
Fox left.
Red rushed to his friend.
Marci stood. “Whew!” that was close.
Red agreed. He decided that Marci needed her special Valentine right then.
Marci looked in her sack for his.
Tipping…
Shaking…
Flipping…
“Oh no! I lost the special, sparkly, card I made for you.”
“Maybe we’ll find it on the way home,” said Red.
“I hope we do,” said Marci.
But they didn’t.
Marci fished for her key.
“Look! Your Valentine! I forgot that I hid it in my pocket.”
“Ha, ha, ha,” laughed Red. Where else would a marsupial hide something special!”
ohhh, so glad they found it! I wish you well with your story.
Thank you!
Aha! Those tricky pockets! Another thing they’re good for, Valentines. Cute story, Mona.
Thanks, Jilanne. I love pockets!
Glad they got all their valentines delivered safely, and what a clever ending that the valentine would be hidden in the marsupial’s pocket! Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun, Mona!
Sweet Love
by Christine Rodenbour
Cupid got to fly, have his own holiday, and run around in nothing but underpants. Still, something was missing.
Cupid wanted love. He wanted someone to smile when he smiled and bring him donuts when he frowned. Most of all, Cupid wanted Bella.
But every time he got near her, he sweat. He shook. He forgot to breathe. It was hopeless. Until…
…Cupid decided to break Rule #1.
RULE #1: Bow and arrows are for making people fall in love. WITH EACH OTHER. (Not with Cupid).
Cupid was leaving Dippity’s Donuts when he saw her. He drew his bow and fired. But he forgot his glasses and “Bella” turned out to be Pigeon.
Later, glasses on, Cupid found Bella near the hot dog stand. Just as he aimed, Pigeon swooped in for a smooch and the arrow flew toward a fresh batch of wieners. Cupid left the clerk his last jelly-filled to say sorry.
He found shade, to think and lick mustard from his elbow, when he heard…
“Excuse me,” Bella said. “I’m sure you’re busy. But I have an emergency!”
Cupid began to sweat. Then, nodded.
“I ran out of donuts!”
As Cupid hurried Bella toward the nearest bakery, he tucked his arrow away. Turned out he might not need it after all.
Cute story, and I’m impressed he can lick his elbow! 😉 I wish you well with your story.
Donuts solve any problem. At least that’s what I’ve found. Sweet, literally, story!
Cupid is quite the character – dashing in his underpants and able to lick his elbow! 🙂 I love that what he wants in a valentine is someone who will bring him donuts when he frowns. I think Cupid and I are on the same wavelength 🙂 Thanks for a very entertaining entry, Christine!
You Rock!
Karla Jermy
211 words
Jonathan peeked eagerly in his Valentine’s box on the way out for recess. Empty! He tried not to be disappointed, but it wasn’t working.
He plopped himself down in the front of a tree, scanning the playground, hoping to catch someone’s gaze. Then they might ask him to play. Nothing! He tried not to be sad, but it wasn’t working.
He picked up a couple of rocks and made a circle on the pavement. He threw the rocks, one at a time, trying to make it land in the circle.
No. No. Closer. Yes!
“Nice shot. You made up a good game. Can I play with you?”
Jonathan jumped around and tried not be scared. He nodded slowly, hoping it wasn’t a trick.
They laughed, joked, and finished the game together until the bell rang to go back inside.
After he hung up his coat, Jonathan stopped to have another quick look in his box. He didn’t expect to find anything…again…so he lifted the lid off quickly. But, this time something shook.
Inside his Valentine’s box was a rock with a heart drawn on it. It was one of the rocks from the new game at recess.
A smile stretched across Jonathan’s face.
“You rock,” said a familiar voice behind him.
Awww, this has a satisfying ending. Nice. I wish you well with your story.
I rock, u rock, we all rock, on Valentine’s Day. This story rocks!
Nice! Rock on with this fun story!
Cute story with a nice ending, Karla! Finding a friend through common interest is often the best way. I’m glad Jonathan found someone to play with 🙂 Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun!