Roses are red
Violets are blue
Valentinies rock
And so do YOU!
Hang onto your chocolate everyone! It’s time for . . .
The 4th Annual Pretty Much World Famous Valentiny Writing Contest!!!
~ for children’s writers~
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 feels guilty! Your someone can feel guilty themselves or make someone else feel guilty. They may feel guilty for good reason, or just because they think they should! 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 guilty (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 tomorrow Thursday February 14th by 11:59 PM EDT and add your post-specific link to the list below. There will be no Would You Read It or PPBF for the duration of the contest so this post and the list of links will stay up all week for everyone to enjoy. If you would like to enter but don’t have a blog you are welcome to paste your entry in the comment section below (please be sure to include your byline so that if your posting handle is writesbynightlight1 or something I’ll be able to tell who you are!) If anyone has trouble commenting, which unfortunately happens, please email your entry to me at susanna[at]susannahill[dot]com and I’ll post your entry for you. But please don’t send attachments! Just copy and paste your story including byline into the email. Also, please only post your entry once – either in the comment section of my blog or on the link list or by emailing me and asking me to post it. Multiple postings of the same entry get confusing. 🙂
P.S. Although I try to stay glued to my computer 24/7 I am sometimes forced to leave my desk. If you haven’t commented on my blog before, your comment won’t show up until I approve it. It may take a little while if I’m away from my desk. Likewise, if you send me an entry to post, I promise I will do it as soon as I can!
The Judging: over the next several days, 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 Wednesday February 20th (or possibly a day or two later if the judges need extra time.) The winner will be announced Friday February 22nd or Saturday February 23rd depending on judging and voting time needed. 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 guilt and success in making us feel the guilt!
- 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, the awesomeness! Such great prizes to motivate you! With thanks to all who donated!
– “Skip The Slushpile” AND get a Query Letter Critique from Charlotte Wenger, associate editor at Page Street Kids, the picture book division of Page Street Publishing. She earned her Master of Arts in Children’s Literature from Simmons University (then College) and is a board member of the Mazza Museum’s National Advisory Board of Visitors. She enjoys working with debut picture book authors and illustrators and is excited about the 19 Page Street Kids picture books pubbing in 2019.
Charlotte’s Manuscript Wish List: http://www.manuscriptwishlist.com/mswl-post/charlotte-wenger/Charlotte will read the winner’s picture book manuscript of choice, then send an email letting you know she’s read your story and including one thing you did well and one thing you might work on to improve the manuscript. In addition, she will give you a query letter critique. Like all editors, she has a hectic schedule, so she will aim to fulfill the prize within 2 months of receiving the manuscript.
– Picture Book Manuscript Critique by the incredibly talented, multi-published author/illustrator Iza Trapani!
– Picture Book Manuscript Critique by the Queen of KidLit411 herself, Elaine Kiely Kearns, author of Noah Noasaurus, forthcoming April 1, 2019 from Albert Whitman!
– Top Ten Reasons for Rejection – a 52 minute webinar from Alayne Kay Christian, author of Butterfly Kisses (picture book) and the Sienna The Cowgirl Fairy series (chapter books), and Content and Developmental Editor of Blue Whale Press.
Webinar Description: If you want tips on some corrective action that you might take to improve your chances of submission success, and/or if you would like to deepen your understanding of plot and arc, this webinar is for you.
(And if you’re interested in seeing what else Alayne has to offer, like her Writing For Children Webinars and Courses page on FB and keep an eye out for upcoming offerings!)
– 15-30 Minute Your Questions Answered Phone Call – with Ryan Sias, author/illustrator of Balloon Toons: Zoe And Robot, Let’s Pretend, Sniff Sniff!, and the Woof And Quack beginning reader series (Green Light Readers), and the Super Doodle Series. He has worked in animation, film, and television, including Sesame Street 🙂
Do you have questions about writing, revising, submitting, whether or not to try for an agent, what happens after the sale, or anything else publishing industry related? If so, this is your chance to ask away and get answers from a professional!
– Query Letter Critique by Heather Ayris Burnell, creator of the Sub It Club and author of Bedtime Monster, Kick! Jump! Chop! The Adventures Of The Ninjabread Man, and the Sparkly New Friends early chapter book series from Scholastic!
– 2-Pack of Personalized Signed Picture Books from amazing author Melissa Stoller – Scarlet’s Magic Paintbrush and Ready, Set, Gorilla!
– The Writer’s Tool Box: Creative Games And Exercises for Inspiring The “Write” Side Of Your BrainAND a $10 Amazon Gift Card
– Children’s Writer’s And Illustrator’s Market 2019 – by Robert Lee Brewer AND a $10 Amazon Gift Card (2 available)
I can’t thank these authors 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.
The time has come for my sample.
It could have really benefited from the 65 words I had to cut out of it to make the 214 word limit! I’m warning you now – have some chocolate handy to help ease the pain of reading it 🙂
Valentine Fair and Square (214 words)
Flora and Miles liked all the same things.
Climbing trees.
Fishing.
Baseball.
And peanut butter ice cream with marshmallow sauce.
Unfortunately, Miles didn’t know Flora existed.
But Flora had a plan.
For days she toiled, making the Best Valentine Ever.
Valentines morning, she put her valentine on Miles’s desk.
Miles would notice her now!
But then Isabella put hers on top!
It was HUGE.
It was FANCY.
It came with a whole box of candy.
DISASTER!
There was only one thing to do.
When Isabella wasn’t looking, Flora grabbed the huge, fancy, pink valentine and hid it behind the bookshelf.
During Attendance, Flora’s middle felt pinchy.
She hadn’t stolen it, she told herself. She’d only moved it!
But during the Pledge, her heart felt twingy.
She so wanted Miles to like her. He had to like her valentine most!
But by Morning Announcements Flora’s thoughts were poking her in the brain. Sharply.
Isabella probably worked as hard on her valentine as Flora had.
Flora flooded with guilt.
She didn’t want to hurt Isabella.
She didn’t want Miles to like her when she’d been deceitful.
So she put Isabella’s valentine back.
“Hey!” said Miles, holding up a valentine. “This is the Best Valentine Ever!”
It wasn’t fancy pink.
It was a climbing-tree-fishing-peanut-butter-cup-and-mini-marshmallow-covered baseball-glove heart.
Flora’s.
❤
Alrighty then!
I feel GUILTY for writing such drivel 🙂 But surely you are all feeling a surge of confidence, emboldened to share your stories, now that I have posted this travesty for all the world to see! Never let it be said that I’m not willing to make a fool of myself for you, my friends! 🙂
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 you still have until midnight tomorrow 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!!!
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 92 fabulous entries posted in the comment section below!!!
Happy Valentines Week, Everyone! ❤
Scroll through the comments to find these wonderful stories!
- Valentine’s Day Confession – Juli
- Prince Froggie Went A’ Courtin’ – Sherry
- Valentine’s Remorsel – Joel
- Sophie Builds A Bridge – Corine
- Charity’s Chocolate Bath – Johanna
- Candy Hearts – Glenda
- Cupid’s Valentine Scrabble – Jill
- Momo On Valentine’s Day – Shariffa
- A Valentine’s Party At School – Anneberly
- Secret Mission Valentine – Ramona
- It Wasn’t Me! – Susan
- The Little Piggies Celebrate Valentines Day – Sarah
- Messy Valentines – Sarah
- Wilfred’s Valentine’s Day – Cheryl
- A Box Full Of Love – Anne
- No Sweethearts – Marcia
- The Missing Pupcake – Jill
- Cupid And Bob – Jessica
- The Important Pink Washcloth – Marcia
- Valentine’s Day Smiles – Katie
- A Penny For His Thoughts – Charlene
- The Girl With The Dragon Choo-Choo – Anne
- Where Does Love Go? – Aixa
- The Sucker – Megan
- I Was Wrong – Nina
- Alex & Apple Solve The Case – Nicole
- Tamu, The Thieving Cat (Paka Mwizi)! – Ketan
- Late Night Snack – Mary
- A Way With Words – Susan
- A Spiny Valentiny – Rachel
- Love Bug At The Zoo – Chambrae
- Stan’s First Valentine’s Day – Jessica
- Tom’s Dad – ???
- The Lovebird’s Valentiny Ball – Barbara
- Love LOVES Love – Rebecca
- Sasquatch: In Search Of A Valentine – Mary
- The Case Of The Missing Valentine’s Candy – Sherry
- My Muddy Valentine – Jennifer
- Sometimes To Always – Jan
- The Heart-Shaped Balloon – Amy
- Tater Tot Tilly’s Valentine Treat – Kim
- No Ordinary Thursday – Emma
- Alma’s GREEN Valentine – Amy
- Ahava’s School Valentine Surprise – Amy
- An ImPURRfect Valentine Surprise – Deborah
- Last Valentine’s – Tonya
- Vivi’s Heart – Pai
- A Valentine For Papa – Keely
- A Valentine Party To Remember – Judy
- A Valentine For Prince Donald – Jim
- Tiny Crush – Amy
- The Valentine’s Day Mess & Cure – Joyce
- Hillary’s Heart – Deborah
- The Perfect Valentine – Susie
- Change Of Heart – Jeannine
- The Presents – Kirsten
- Teacher Valentine – Rosemary
- Happy Valentine’s Day To Everyone – Michele
- Conversation Smarts – Lauren
- Twenty Chocolate Kisses – Patricia
- A Little Heart – Lynn
- Guess Who? – Marty
- Big Sister For The Day – Alison
- Puneet’s Valentine Birthday – Johannah
- Ella And Emma And The Valentine Verdict – Cindy
- A Valentine For Valentina – Lara
- The (Not So) Great Revenge – Darcee
- The Glass Heart – Gabriella
- All Wrapped Up – Mia
- A Valentine’s Day Breakfast “Trip” – Susan
- Raisins Or Frosting – Ashely
- Buffa-lonely Love Day – Jennifer
- Bookworm’s Valentine – Dee
- The Saga Of Cupid – Linda
- Celebrate Every Day With A Poem – Kathy
- Puppies Can’t Eat Chocolate – Jan
- Something Special – Deb
- Spoon In Hand – DL
- The Unkeepable Promise – Juliana
- Guilty As Charged – Michelle
- Valentines For All – Marjorie
- Mom’s Valentine – Scott
- How It All Began – Linda
- The Coconut Covered Chocolates – Carmen
- Valentine Dilemma – Ranessa
- Who Will Be Mine? – Susie
- Blue Whale’s Big Heart – Susan
- Chadwick The Zombie Cooks Up A Valentine – Katrina
- Noses Are Red – JC
- The Tattle Tale – Karen
- An Extra Special Valentine – Margaret
- Operation Chocolate Hearts – Lucretia
Susanna Leonard Hill 
An ImPURRfect Valentine Surprise (212 words)
By Deborah Bence Boerema
Chloe was about to slip her surprise into Hailey’s room when her sister yelled, “LUUUNAAA!” Just then, Luna zipped past her and tore down the hallway. Hailey shouted, “Get back here, you bad cat! You spilled glitter all over my desk!” Chloe’s eye grew wide as she backed away from Hailey’s door and crept toward the kitchen.
As Chloe rounded the corner, Luna yowled and darted into the next room. “Hold on, Luna, you naughty kitty,” Mom scolded. “You tracked flour across my clean floor!” Chloe’s cheeks flushed as she turned and ducked into the living room.
“Luna! My newspaper is not a scratching pad,” Dad bellowed. The cat crouched beside a shredded pile behind the recliner.
Chloe moaned as Mom and Hailey rushed into the room and closed in on Luna. “Wait,” she muttered, shifting from foot to foot and staring at the floor. “Don’t blame the cat. I made the mess. The paper. The flour for the paste. The glitter.” She held up three sparkly papier-mâché hearts. “I just wanted to make a Valentine surprise for you. I’m sorry.”
The tension drained away as the cat started chasing glitter reflections that danced on the floor. With a grin, Dad said, “Well Chloe, I’d say those Valentines are the cat’s meow.”
Cute story, Deborah! What a mess! And how easy it would have been to let Luna take the blame – not like she could have defended herself! It was nice of Chloe to own up to her guilt! Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun!
Word Count: 138
Last Valentine’s
by Tonya Lippert
Last Valentine’s, we were friends.
Now we have other friends.
I see you play hopscotch.
You see me play four-square.
We see each other seeing.
And then we look away.
I know it’s my fault.
I told Christina and Teresa you always wear your yellow t-shirt.
I told them I pretended to be your friend.
Guess I wanted them to like me.
But they whispered it to you, and you left.
They left.
I missed you the most.
I still miss you.
Will you give me another chance?
Please?
My teacher said Valentine’s Day is about more than love. She said it’s about forgiveness, too.
I hope you will forgive me.
I’ll never say that I’m pretending to be your friend.
I’ll always wear a yellow t-shirt, if you want.
Look!
I’m wearing one now.
In my mind, I could picture these two children eyeing each other as they went through their days and, in my heart, I felt the regret and guilt, the narrator felt. I hope they get together and wear their yellow t-shirts together:-)
Me, too.
Thanks for reading it and replying.
Tonya
Sad but realistic story.
I like it.
Good luck!
Thanks. It’s the hard lessons that stick, though, right?
A heartfelt story well-told, and one that hits home. Don’t we all recall those regretful moments when we betrayed a friend’s trust? Thanks for tackling this topic.
Oh this tugs at my heart! Good luck!
Tonya,
Well told tale of regret. This is definitely something that happens between children.
Good luck in the contest!
Such a poignant story, Tonya! I could really feel the pain of that torn friendship, and your MC’s guilt and regret. Haven’t we all done things that seemed like a good idea at the time, without really thinking through the consequences, and then realized we made a mistake. I hope these two can find their lost friendship and dress in sunny yellow together again!
(Word will say the word count is 216 because it is counting the S S in Miss as separate words. It is exactly 214 words 🙂
VIVI’S HEART
pai rosenthal
word count – 214
Yay! Vivi was excited! It was time to make valentines and Miss Amy had called the class over to the table strewn with papers, markers, doilies, glue bottles, and GLITTER. Miss Amy asked them to think of someone special before starting. Mamy! Vivi’s grand-maman came to mind immediately!
DEAR MAMY, she wrote, and then began her work of art: Her circle head, curly black hair, brown eyes, wide arms, two legs, and a little heart right where it belonged. Now for the glitter! But the glue was stuck. “Miss Amy!”
Miss Amy tried. She squeezed and squeezed – First a drip, then a drop, then a huge fat PLOP as the cap popped off! Now, where Vivi’s heart should have been was a lake of white goo!
Miss Amy looked at Vivi. “Oh, sweet Vivi! I’m so sorry!” Tears bubbled up in Miss Amy’s eyes. Vivi looked up. “It’s okay, Miss Amy. When things go wrong, maybe they are really going right. I have an idea.”
At the end of the day, the classroom emptied and Miss Amy finally sat down. There was a card on her desk.
DEAR MAMY it began.
I
S
S
I LOVE YOU!
And there was a picture of little girl, arms spread wide, holding the world’s biggest, most sparkly heart!
pai rosenthal
So sweet during an art disaster into a loving note! Good job!.
Aww. Way to go Vivi, making Miss Amy feel better.
I definitely have been there and done the glue plop before, and you told the tale well.
Good luck in the contest!
What a sweet story, Pai! Vivi really does have a big heart. Favorite line: “When things go wrong, maybe they are really going right.” – Vivi is wise – life is what you make it – lemonade out of lemons 🙂 Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun!
*Posting this way moved my I S S over! They were under the M!!
Note to self: Get a blog of my own so this doesn’t happen!
pai
A Valentine for Papa
(213 words)
It’s been almost a year since we said goodbye to Mama.
I’ve never been able to see all that Mama and Papa saw together in the night sky. Sometimes I think I never will.
All year Papa and I have looked up at the constellations of stars to remember her.
Last year in April, we hid together from the Large Bear Ursa Major just like Mama used to do.
In July when Papa told me Scorpius was scuttling across the sky, I’d shiver.
In November Papa pointed to Cassiopeia. He said that she wasn’t nearly as beautiful as Mama.
In January Papa pointed out Orion’s belt and Taurus pawing the ground before his charge.
Tonight is a chilly February night. As Papa points to Canis Major, I reach for his hand,
“I need to tell you something, Papa.”
“I’m listening.”
“I can’t see what you and Mama saw in the sky.”
Papa smiles gently, “My child, sometimes all it takes is a little imagination.”
I gaze into the universe. A few diamonds sparkle back, and a shape starts to form.
“I see something, Papa! Can you?”
“Tell me!” Papa says.
“It’s a Valentine heart in the sky just for you! Mama’s very own constellation.”
“Yes. A big, beautiful heart! For both of us.”
This is a lovely story! Such a sweet ending, too. Good Luck!
Thank you so much! You are kind to comment. I remember enjoying discovering the constellations with dad and being frustrated that I couldn’t see them more clearly. This was a really fun challenge!
Loved it! Some much action and descriptions. I can see a lot of fun illustrations with this story. Very fun to read. Good luck!
Sorry that comment was supposed to be for the one below.
Loved your story. My son would enjoy the constellation references. Very heartfelt. Good luck!
Agreed!! This can be a gorgeous picture book all by itself!!
This is so sweet! My dad used to share all the constellations with us when we were young. And I love your ending, it feels very much like a hug.
Thank you so much, @heatherbell37! I love hearing that you could relate to it with an actual memory! Did you have a favorite one growing up?
I liked Cassiopeia. Partly because I thought it was a fun name to say and also because I was a big fan of Clash of the Titans. 😝
I love how you bring all the constellations into the story! Good luck!
Thanks so much! It was so much fun to write–brought back some fun memories, and now I’m inspired to try to find a few constellations again myself.
You did a really nice job developing this story based on the constellations. You made me see the child’s sadness, and I was glad she was able to share something with Papa in the end.
Good luck in the contest!
Such a sweet story, Keely! I can relate to your little one – I can only identify a few constellations – there are so many stars it can be hard to see the shapes. I love your descriptions of them, and your MC’s guilt over not really being able to see them, and then the way “a few diamonds sparkle back” and she see’s Mama’s Valentine heart – so sweet! Thanks for joining in the contest fun!
A Valentine Party to Remember (208 words)
By Judy Sobanski
Ed Elephant wondered, what’s going on here?
The note that he found said, ‘A Party!!’ —”Oh Dear!
It’s Valentine’s Day and I guess I forgot!”
He twisted his trunk in a knot with distraught.
“There’s no time for cards or candy or flowers.
The party is set to begin in two hours!”
He searched through his cupboards for something to fix.
There wasn’t one brownie or single cake mix.
No pretzels, no popcorn, no tortilla chips,
No hummus, or onion or artichoke dips.
“So all I can offer is PB & J?
Guess that’s what I’m making and taking today.
I can’t exchange valentines—I’m so regretful.
Just how could this elephant BE so forgetful?”
Ed packed up the sandwiches, napkins and plates,
and drove to the party in Foxwood Estates.
He walked in the door to a boisterous chorus,
“Happy Valentine’s Day! Have you brought something for us?”
“Well,” stammered Ed. “I don’t have very much.
I didn’t bring candy or cookies and such.
I only have sandwiches—PB & J.”
His friends shouted, “PB & J??? HIP HOORAY!
“But I don’t have valentines for anyone.”
“Hey, that’s OK. We’ll have plenty of fun.
We organized contests and games. You can bet,
this Valentine party you’ll never forget!!”
Loved it! Some much action and descriptions. I can see a lot of fun illustrations with this story. Very fun to read.
Very cute!
Fun and friends are what really matters. I certainly felt empathy for poor Ed’s dilemma! Very sweet story!
What great fun! Love it!
Judy,
What a fun rhyme – and who doesn’t like PB & J. Everyone needs friends like Elephant has that make him feel good no matter what!
Good luck in the contest!
Sandwiches and games are enough for this group of friends. Ed is lucky to have them. I enjoyed your story.
Poor forgetful Ed! No wonder he felt guilty – especially because elephants are generally known for having good memories! I felt his dilemma as he cast about for something, ANYthing to bring to the party. I think PB&J was a great idea 🙂 And I’m sure he’ll never forget this special party…even if he forgets everything else 🙂 Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun, Judy!
I’m sooo sorry about this, but I forgot the byline that you requested. My name is Keely Leim. My email is keely.leim@gmail.com. I submitted A Valentine for Papa a few minutes ago.
Thank you so much for this opportunity.
No worries 🙂 Thanks for letting me know and adding the info!
A Valentine For Prince Donald
By Jim Chaize
Prince Donald expected every princess to fall in love with him.
Some were attracted to his riches, others to his unbelievable stories.
One loved the way he said, “I’m the best at everything!”
But sooner or later, as sure as birds tweet in the sunshine, his temper flared.
He’d say things that hurt people’s feeling, even made them cry.
“We’ve spoiled him,” said the Queen.
“Guilty as charged,” said the King, “ but he still deserves to fall in love.”
Donald’s parents visited the castle wizard.
“We hoped he’d be kind and find someone to love,” said the Queen.
“Cast a spell,” demanded the King. “Make it happen!”
“Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day,” said the Wizard. “He’ll fall in love and be the
happiest boy in the kingdom.”
The next morning, Donald’s parents brought him to the Wizard.
The Wizard waved his wand and uttered mysterious words.
Donald’s eyes twinkled. A smile bloomed.
“It’s Valentine’s Day, and I’m in love,” he announced.
“Oh, joy!” declared the Queen.
“Sound the trumpets!” ordered the King.
“Wait!” said the Wizard. “Where is he going?”
They followed Donald to his bedroom.
“There’s my precious,” said Donald.
“Where?” asked the Queen.
“Who?” asked the King.
“Him!” said the Wizard.
The reflection in Donald’s mirror smiled and winked.
Ha ha ha! I don’t think that was the outcome the Wizard was hoping for, but it is very funny! Well done and good luck in the contest!
Thanks, Colleen for reading and you’re comment.
Hahaha! Very funny, Jim! I had a feeling something like that was coming 🙂 I think it was the “One loved the way he said, “I’m the best at everything!”” that tipped me off 🙂 Very entertaining! Thanks for joining in the contest fun!!!
Tiny Crush
By Amy Flynn
I left her a Valentine note first thing in the morning. “I think you’re nice” it said.
I shared my cookie with her at lunch.
I played tag with her at recess.
I left her a Valentine note in the afternoon. “I think you’re smart” it said.
I sharpened her pencil for her when it broke.
I sat next to her on the reading rug.
I snuck a Valentine note into her backpack. “You are my favorite” it said.
The next morning in line she whispered to me, have you been writing me Valentines?
I smiled.
I blushed.
It was me.
Very sweet story!
OMG! Is that the cutest thing ever or what?! 🙂 Such a sweet valentine! 🙂 I especially love that the notes said “nice” and “smart” and “my favorite” and nothing about looks. And that neither child ever needed a name. Nice job, Amy! Thanks for joining in the fun!
The Valentine’s Day Mess & Cure by Joyce Schriebman (207)
Dear Mom and Dad,
When you wake up,
you’ll see your tea and coffee cup.
(Don’t worry, ‘cause the broom worked well for cleaning up the plate that fell.)
I made you toast with jam and butter, wiped the crumbs but left some clutter.
(Couldn’t get some sticky spots off counters, tables, chairs, and pots.)
A napkin holds a chocolate heart that you can simply break apart.
(Yes, there were two, but I concede, how much dark chocolate does one need?)
This card is trimmed in frilly lace to put a smile upon your face.
(Oh, by the way, the sewing kit? It now needs straightening up a bit.)
I hope your Valentine’s Day fun is nicer ‘cause of what I’ve done
(and sort of wondering if you might, push back my time for bed tonight?)
XOXOXOXOXOXO
P.S. Uh-oh…I’m feeling bad. I wanted you to be so glad
but went about it like a jerk and caused you both a lot of work.
I wasn’t such a thoughtful kid. I should have cared—not like I did.
When you wake up, let’s make a plan, and I’ll correct what goofs I can.
With Love and Kisses,
You Know Who (I love you both a bunch, I DO!)
Oh so cute,Joyce! I love the peanut butter and clutter line! Good luck!
This is a fun story Joyce! My favorite stanza is the one about breaking the single chocolate apart because the son ate the other one!
Good luck in the contest!!
Love the story told in the form of a note with the good parts first and the not-so-good parts in parentheses underneath. So cleverly written, Joyce! We can all appreciate a child who had good intentions… but ended up making a mess 🙂 I felt the guilt, and the desire to make amends, but love how irrepressible this little MC is with that bouncy ending! Thanks for joining in the fun!
Montaukdeb (dhunt@cnr.edu)
Hillary’s Heart
By Deborah Dolan Hunt
Hillary munched on the salty chips.
“That’s not a healthy snack.”
“Who said that?” Hillary jumped off the couch.
“It’s me. Your heart. That food is bad for me.”
“Heart’s can’t talk,” said Hillary. “They only go lub dub lub dub.”
“Happy hearts do. But I’m a sad heart.”
“Why are you sad?” asked Hillary.
“You don’t love me.”
“Yes, I do,” said Hillary.
“If you loved me you would eat healthy food.”
“What kind of food?” asked Hillary.
“Sweet, juicy fruits.”
“Blah,” said Hillary.
“Green, leafy veggies.”
“Yuck,” said Hillary.
“Boo, hoo.”
“Can I do something else to make you happy?’ asked Hillary.
“You could go play in the yard.”
“But this is my favorite show!” Hillary stamped her feet.
“Boo, hoo.”
“There must be something else,” said Hillary.
“You could drink water instead of soda.”
“I never drink water,” said Hillary.
“I guess I’ll just be sad forever.”
Hillary sat down and grabbed a handful of chips.
“Boo, hoo, hoo.”
“Please stop crying,” said Hillary. “It’s Valentine’s Day and hearts are
supposed to be happy.
“Only you can help me be happy.”
Hillary looked around. “What if I had a strawberry?”
“That would help.”
Hillary grabbed a berry. “This is yummy.”
“Lub, dub, lub dub!”
I love this story. Unique and creative? A fun way to deliver an important message. I am glad Hillary made her heart happy by eating a strawberry in the end.
Hi Corine,
Thanks so much! I was inspired to write this story because I’m a nurse and a big advocate of heart health and woman’s heart health because many women are not aware that they may experience different manifestations. And February is heart month and Go Red for women’s heart health!
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Hillary took a little step in the right direction! Nice!
Thanks, Nancy!!
If only everyone had a heart like Hillary’s. There definitely would be a much healthier population. Good job with your different take on a Valentine story!
Thanks so much, Colleen! I agree! There are so many things we can do to be heart healthy and the younger one starts the better!
What a unique idea! A conversation between Hillary and her heart! Love it!
Thanks, Jill! I have been wanting to write something like this for a while and this contest inspired me.
I love this!!! My heart is sad at me today: I ate a chocolate covered almond butter ball! Good luck!
Thanks so much! LOL~~well if it was dark chocolate it can balance out the butterball part, so your heart will only be half sad : )
What a creative way to write a Valentine story, Deborah! Love how you made the heart a character and shared its POV, and included the healthy eating and exercise pointers as perfectly logical suggestions for making a heart that feels sad and unloved feel better. Cleverly done!
Thanks so much, Susanna for your lovely review. I love writing, especially for children. I have been thinking about this type of story for the longest time and your contest helped me to utilize my nursing experience to write this story. Best, Deborah
THE PERFECT VALENTINE
(214 Words)
By Susie Sawyer
Sonia taped the heart-shaped rock to the pink paper.
“Mr. Carlson will love this,” she said. “Now I just have to think of the perfect message.”
Mr. Carlson was Sonia’s favorite teacher. He smiled at every kid each morning. He kept extra pencils in case someone forgot theirs, and he always had time to listen. But Sonia’s favorite thing about him was that he loved rocks, just like she did.
“I’ve got it!” She wrote out her message and tucked the valentine into her backpack.
The next day at school, her classmates passed out their valentines. Many had brought one for Mr. Carlson too.
Toby’s had a fancy pop-up rocket ship.
Nora’s had colorful tissue paper flowers and hearts.
Roberto gave him a box of special chocolates he had made with his Grandma.
Sonia set her valentine on Mr. Carlson’s desk. Suddenly, she felt embarrassed. The other valentines seemed so much better than hers.
“What’s this?” He picked up her valentine. “Sonia, is this one from you?”
“It’s silly. I shouldn’t have given you a rock.”
“This isn’t silly! I love rocks, and YOU love rocks. That makes this the perfect valentine … from YOU!”
Then he read the message – YOU ROCK!
Mr. Carlson laughed. “Thanks, Sonia. This valentine rocks! And so do you!”
Cute story! Rock solid! Good luck!
Everyone needs a teacher like Mr. Carlson! Thanks for sharing your very cute story! Good luck with the contest!
What a sweet story, Susie! If we’re lucky, we’ve all had a “Mr. Carlson” somewhere in our educational pasts 🙂 And I love how you incorporated the Valentiny poem (Valentinies rock and so do you!) into your story! I think that calls for bonus points 🙂 Thanks for joining in the fun!
Change of Heart (214 words)
by Jeannine Pao Brown
“Valentine’s Day is dumb,” said Fred as he walked in from recess.
“Yup,” said Steve.
“I didn’t even bring valentines. I don’t HEART anyone or whatever.”
But once the class party began, valentines piled onto Fred’s desk. Nineteen, twenty, twenty-one. Whew! At least he wasn’t the only one who didn’t give out valentines.
Then Steve walked up.
And handed Fred a valentine.
“Really, Steve?” asked Fred.
“Yup,” said Steve. It was just a simple note: “Hey Fred, you’re a pretty good friend. Later, Steve”
That’s twenty-two. Fred was the only one who didn’t give out valentines.
There were hearts, candies, sparkles, and more candy. Andrew taped a car on his. Stacy gave tiny bear-shaped erasers. Sindy made slime for the whole class!
Twenty-two little packages of fun decorated Fred’s desk, and Fred didn’t have anything to give back. Not yet.
He grabbed paper, cut twenty-two hearts, and started writing.
“Thank you, Stacy, for the erasers. You are very nice. Your friend, Fred”
“Andrew, I like race cars, too! Smell you later, Fred”
“Steve, you’re a pretty good friend, too. HEART (winky face), Fred”
By the end of the party, Fred had given everyone a valentine.
“Valentine’s Day isn’t so bad, I guess,” he said, walking out the door.
“Yup,” said Steve with a smile.
I love that Fred has such a change of heart (perfect title too). Nice job!
nice story
Nice to see not everybody has to celebrate. And he celebrated in his own way, by giving thanks. Great story.
I like Fred’s change of heart. I think you captured boys’ emotions very well. Good luck!
I am glad Fred had a change of heart!
Perfect title for a Valentine story and for Fred’s turn-around, Jeannine. I love how he came to see things differently. I felt the guilt in “Twenty-two little packages of fun decorated Fred’s desk, and Fred didn’t have anything to give back.” and loved the follow-up of “Not yet!” That was just right! 🙂 Thanks for joining in the fun!
The Presents
(214 words)
by Kirsten Ealand
Nanna’s stay was like a big, warm cuddle. She played games, told stories and patted Addie’s hair every night while she fell asleep.
On Valentine’s Day Addie and her sister Maya hurried home from school because Nanna was buying them I-love-you presents. Addie tore off her wrapping. Inside was a wind-up box that played Happy Birthday.
‘Addie, can you believe your birthday is almost here?’
Addie smiled and snuggled Nanna.
Maya opened her present slowly, saving the paper. Inside was a small fan. Maya pressed a button and the fan whirred around and air blew out. Real air just like the fan in Mummy’s bedroom. Then Maya pushed another button and the fan whirred faster and her hair flew.
‘Can I have a go?’ asked Addie.
‘Okay’.
‘Let me hold it.’ Addie grabbed.
‘It’s mine,’ said Maya. ‘Play with your present.’
‘But I want a fan.’
Addie’s eyes widened, her lip quivered. ‘I hate the stupid music box. It’s for babies!’ Addie looked at Nanna and ran to her bedroom.
Addie sobbed into her teddy because she didn’t get the fan, but mostly for the look on Nanna’s face. She knew she was acting like a baby, but she couldn’t help it. Maybe the music box was the right present for her after all.
Sibling rivalry, you always want what the other one received! You made Addie’s emotional s real. Good job!
Thanks Nancy for taking the time to comment))
It is often the case where a child thinks her sibling’s present is better than her own. You certainly made me feel Addie’s remorse when she reflected on her Nanna’s reaction.
Good luck in the contest.
Thanks very much Colleen))
You certainly captured sibling behavior beautifully, Kirsten! How one often wants what the other has, and how the one who has it likes to wield her power – “it’s mine!” I felt Addie’s frustration when she said she hated the music box, and her guilt and sadness for making Nanna feel bad. Nicely done.
Thanks again Susanna for another fun comp and your Herculean effort of commenting on all the stories – you are amazing! I love your comps for motivation, inspiration and fun. Thanks again.
Rosemary Basham
Teacher Valentine
Miss Tucker taught me all I know.
She’s beautiful and smart.
From that first day of second grade
I felt it from the start.
I made the perfect valentine
A pink and lacy heart.
I wrote the sweetest verse inside
“Till next year when we part.”
But now I must take back my card
And from our love depart.
Ashley D. just smiled at me
I’m stung by Cupid’s dart.
nice work, Rosemary.
Sweet and funny.
Love is so fickle! Good job, nice rhyme!
Cute! Love the twist!
Oh no! Poor Miss Tucker! I think this poet is going to be breaking a lot of hearts!!
Good luck in the contest!!
haha, cute! Good luck!
Hahaha! How changeable is young love, Rosemary! 🙂 Loved the ending when the card so lovingly created for one was pressed into use for someone else 🙂 Thanks for joining in the contest fun!
Happy Valentine’s Day to Everyone
By Michele Meleen
Today was going to be the best Valentine’s Day ever!
I gave out cards to all my friends at school.
I gave Grandma some candy after school.
Mom made my favorite dinner and I gave her flowers.
Dad made my favorite dessert and I gave him a picture.
I even hid heart-shaped treats in my hamster’s cage.
Then, my neighbor, Miss Bonnie, stopped over with a box of chocolates. I forgot to make her a Valentine! That’s when I remembered I also forgot to make one for:
-My other neighbor, Dr. G
-My other, other neighbor, Mrs. Holt
-Miss Amy at the library
-Mailman Terry
-That lady at the bank who gives me suckers
-That lady at the grocery store who gives me cookies
-The guy who drives the big truck to bring us packages
I can’t believe it; I forgot to make Valentines for everyone!
How can I show everyone I love them when Valentine’s Day is almost over?
I’ll need paper, and crayons, and tape, and a stick.
“It’s time to get ready for bed.” says Mom.
“Can you help me put this sign in the front yard first?” I ask.
“Depends, what does it say?” asks Mom.
“Happy Valentine’s Day Everyone!”
I love all the people the character thinks of. The lady at the bank who gives me suckers…
🙂
And nice ending
Aw, cute! I love the sign. 🙂
A great resolution to the eproblem! Good luck!
Ha ha! I love that this child wanted to make sure she wished a Happy Valentine’s Day to everyone who ever toucher her life. Well done!
I love how she made valentines for all the people closest to her… but then suddenly remembered all the other people who mattered in her life. Such a bad feeling to feel you’ve fallen short…and what a great solution! 🙂 Thanks for joining in the Valentine fun, Michele!
CONVERSATION SMARTS
Lauren Neil (214 Words)
“Learn your letters,” the teacher said,
While the students goofed around.
“You never know, it could save a life.”
Only one heard her warning sound.
They all awoke on Valentine’s Day,
The day they had waited for.
The world was bright and cheery,
Then they heard the fated roar.
The first to go was YOU’RE THE BEST.
I LOVE YOU was gone in a flash.
YOU’RE SO FUN tried to run.
And YUM! YUM! tried to dash.
All were gone without a trace
Things were looking bleak.
“The end has come, we’re all done!”
EVER AFTER cried with a shriek.
DREAM and TOO SWEET shivered.
HEART OF GOLD watched in fear.
Could anything stop his demise
At the Valentine’s feast this year?
A stroke of genius, one little rub,
His survival was assured.
No one would eat FART OF GOLD
At last he could rest, secured.
“I told them to learn their letters,”
his teacher said with a sigh.
A guilty tear rolled down her cheek.
“I really, really tried.”
Then MUCH ADO emerged.
She’d added an extra “DOO DOO”.
2000 HUGS was 2000 HOGS
TRUE LOVE became TRUE FLU.
The teacher cried in triumph.
She’d managed to save a few.
If letters can do that for sweethearts
…what could they do for you?
I love this. An original idea with a fun story and clever wordplay.
Such a fun one to read.
Good luck to you.
Thank you so much Linda – it was a fun one to write!
What a fun, original story. Good luck!
Thank you so much Nancy – it was fun coming up with the play on words. 🙂
Hahaha I really enjoyed your word play here. And finding misspelled conversation hearts was always fun. Go teacher! Good luck 🙂
Yes – I feel like I never got to find the misspelled ones and I was always jealous when other people did! Thank you for your kind words. 🙂
Haha, that’s funny! Good luck!
Thank you so much! 🙂 This was a fun one to write and I’m glad folks have enjoyed it.
I was sold on “fart of gold” 🙂 Hahaha! What a fun, original story, Lauren, with clever word play and a little lesson about the importance of learning your letters 🙂 Lots of fun! Thanks for joining in!
“Twenty Chocolate Kisses”
(213 words)
by
Pat Finnegan
“Perfect! Twenty chocolate kisses for the twenty students in my class,” Tiny said.
She carefully taped a kiss to each Valentine she had addressed.
Finally, there was one kiss left, but no card.
“I left somebody out,” she moaned.
She checked and double-checked the cards.
She wrote lists of names. Every list had nineteen names, not twenty.
“Who am I forgetting?” she cried.
That night, she dreamed of chocolate kisses pointing fingers at her and calling her mean.
Breakfast didn’t help her remember the twentieth name.
Walking to school didn’t help.
Looking around the classroom didn’t help.
She stared at the floor.
“Who am I leaving out?”
“Whose feelings will I hurt?”
The Valentine party circle formed.
As music played, everybody marched around the mailboxes, putting a card in each mailbox they passed.
Everybody sang but Tiny.
“I’m so sorry, I’m so sorry,” Tiny mumbled over and over.
Finally, there were no cards left in Tiny’s hand.
The music stopped.
She was standing in front of the last mailbox.
Holding her breath, she peeked at the name on the mailbox—TINY.
“I’m the person I left out,” she exhaled.
She had given a kiss and a card to nineteen friends.
And at home, the twentieth kiss was waiting for the twentieth student—Tiny.
A sweet story with a surprise ending. Good luck!
Nice ending! I thought it was the teacher Tiny forgot! Good luck!
I was thinking Tiny was not realizing she was the 20th child! This is a very cute story. Good luck!
I love her genuine worry and concern about leaving someone out, her counting and recounting and checking her list! She tried so hard! And isn’t that the way – when we’re so focused on others, sometimes we forget ourselves 🙂 Thanks for a lovely sweet story, Pat!
A LITTLE HEART
By,
Lynn Katz
207 Words
Dear Mommy,
Happy Valentines Day. I’m sorry.
Love,
You Know Who
Dear You Know Who,
Why are you sorry? What did you do?
Love,
Mommy
Dear Mommy,
I made you a beautiful Valentine. I know you love hearts.
Love,
James
Dear James,
I have a card for you too. Why are you sorry? Did you break something?
Love,
Mom
Dear Mommy,
I didn’t break anything. I know you love chocolate. Daddy and I have chocolate for you!
Love,
James
Dear James,
Chocolate is lovely. Did you lose something?
Love,
Your mother
Dear Mommy,
I’ll give you a clue: it’s a noun.
Love,
James
Dear James,
I’m in no mood to play 20 questions. Did you get in trouble at school?
Mom
Dear Mommy,
I’ll give you another clue: It will grow back.
Love,
James
JAMES! I don’t like this game. Did you give the cat a haircut?
Dear Mommy,
Good guess. I’ll give you one more clue: I told the barber I wanted my head bald, like your head. But we left a little heart.
Love,
Your favorite son,
James
Dear James,
You are my only son and I love you so much. Happy Valentines Day!
Love,
You Know Who
PS: Please tell Daddy he’s in trouble!
Nice.
I guess Daddy will soon find out that James spilled the beans. Loved this “guilty” story!
This is wonderful. What a great way to tell a sweet story.
Such a touching twist at the end! Good job!
Aww. I love the format and the reveal. Great job!
Oh, the poor Mommy! Good luck!
Love this wonderful story, Lynn! Love the letter-to-letter format, all of Mommy’s worried guesses (especially did you give the cat a haircut! 🙂 ), James identifying himself as her favorite son and Mommy pointing out he’s her only son – so much humor in a moment that could have been heartbreaking. I hope mom gets better! (and dad doesn’t get in TOO much trouble 🙂 )
GUESS WHO?
by Martymi6
Who made their bed and fed the cat?
Almost.
Who cleaned up when the milk went splat?
Well, close.
Who carried out the trash with care?
Oops, whoa!
Who fixed the baby’s messy hair?
Oh no.
Who put a drawing at your place?
Rub, scrub.
Who found a flower for your favorite vase?
Mop slop.
Who saved a foil wrapped chocolate kiss?
Yum, yum.
And set it where you couldn’t miss?
“Dear Mum”
I guess you figured out it’s me.
I’m guilty, as no doubt, you see.
I tried to think of something good
but it didn’t turn out quite as it should.
My valentine surprise is done.
With hugs and kisses from your son.
Guilty of all nice things – What a sweet twist on guilt.
What a fun story. I love it! Good luck!
Very cute! Good luck!
Ah, best intentions and best laid plans… it’s hard to get everything right! But his heart was in the right place! 🙂 Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun, Marty!
BIG SISTER FOR THE DAY
By Alison Marcotte
(209 words)
My big sister Sophia has it so good. She gets to go to Big Sister Classes, and I don’t.
But this Valentine’s Day, Sophia has a cold, so I get to go instead. It’s the best Valentine’s Day gift ever!
In Big Sister Class, I sized up the other Big Sisters. They didn’t scare me. First, we watched a movie about being a Big Sister. Piece of cake. Next, we took a tour of the Big Sister Place and saw real babies that were just born. Easy peasy. But then, we took care of a baby doll. I had to feed, hold, and dress her. This was tough.
How did Sophia make it look so easy? I wanted to be a Little Sister again. Maybe I shouldn’t have been so mean to her. And, wait a minute… Why was Sophia learning how to take care of a baby? I’m not a baby!
At home, Sophia asked me how Big Sister Class went.
“I’m pooped!”
“It gets easier with time.”
And then one day, Mom came home with a bundle: a baby, a real newborn!
Sophia and I got to meet him—Ryan.
I was now a Big Sister for a lifetime!
Not sure if I’m allowed to change my entry, but I thought of a few revisions since this morning, so here’s my updated story. (And this time, I reached exactly 214 words!) Thanks.
BIG SISTER FOR THE DAY
By Alison Marcotte
(214 words)
My big sister Sophia has it so good. She gets to go to Big Sister Classes, and I don’t.
But this Valentine’s Day, Sophia has a cold, so I’m going instead. Best Valentine’s Day gift ever!
In Big Sister Class, we watched a movie about being a Big Sister. Piece of cake.
Next, we took a tour of the Big Sister Place and saw real newborns. Easy peasy.
Then, we took care of a baby doll, feeding, holding, and dressing her. This was tough!
How did Sophia make it look so easy? Maybe I shouldn’t have been so mean to her. And, wait a minute… Why was Sophia learning how to take care of a baby?
Lastly, we made Valentine’s Day cards for the Little Siblings we’d be welcoming into the world soon—but I made a card for someone else.
At home, Sophia asked me how class went.
“I’m pooped!”
“It gets easier with time.”
“But I made you this.” I gave her my Valentine. “I hope you feel better.”
Sophia smiled. “I do now!”
Months later, Mom came home with a bundle: a baby, a real newborn!
Sophia and I got to meet him—Ryan.
I was now a Big Sister for a lifetime!
Funny how Big Sister for a Day turns into Big Sister forever 🙂 Sophia knew what was coming 🙂 Thanks for a cute entry and for joining in the Valentiny fun, Alison!
ENTRY POSTED FOR JOHANNAH
Puneet’s Valentine Birthday (Johannah Luza)
“Wake up Puneet. You’re late for school,” shouted his mom. “You haven’t even signed the valentines for your classmates yet.”
Puneet’s eyes opened. He lifted the covers. “What valentines? Today’s my birthday. They should give me presents!”
“Puneet, we’ll celebrate tonight. But today is the Valentine party.”
Crawling out of bed, Puneet frowned. “Wish I hadn’t been born on Valentine’s Day.”
“You’re special,” his mom said with a hug. It’s a day filled with love.”
“Love, schmuve! Who cares!” He dressed, tossing the unsigned cards into his backpack.
“I’m making laddu for your birthday,” his mom said on the drive to school. Puneet remembered those days in India when Grandmother made laddu for everyone’s birthdays. But he still wouldn’t smile.
Grabbing his backpack he jumped from the car. “Happy birthday,” his mom called out.
Taking his time Puneet opened his classroom door. “Happy Birthday Puneet!” The voices were loud and balloons reached the ceiling. And there on his desk was a birthday cake. Puneet smiled.
Then he remembered the unsigned valentines. It was too late to sign them.
But it wasn’t too late to apologize to his mom. He raced home after school, made a valentine and signed it, “I’m sorry.”
This Valentine’s Day was going to be Puneet’s best birthday ever!
It’s hard to have a holiday birthday! So easy to feel that it gets lost in the other celebrations. How nice that Puneet’s classmates took the time to make him feel special and that he could enjoy his birthday in spite of a little guilt 🙂 Thanks for joining in the contest, Johannah!
ENTRY POSTED FOR CINDY
Ella and Emma and the Valentine Verdict
Ella and Emma discussed
that sending “heart” cards was a must.
But as Valentine’s neared,
Ella worried and feared.
Her craft-making skills were a bust!
Ella enjoyed the outside.
She cherished the swings and the slide.
When sporting a hat
with her baseball and bat
was never for pitcher, denied!
Now Emma desired the arts,
creating sweet Valentine hearts.
With paper and glue,
she knew what to do
and put to use all of her smarts.
The day for card making arrived.
From items, they were not deprived.
With rickrack and lace,
and crayons that erase,
‘twas a wonder that Ella survived.
For Emma soon noted a tear
from Ella’s wet eye to her ear.
At that instant she fret
with both guilt and regret
that she’d boasted no craft-making fear.
“I should have been kinder,” she said,
“when I realized your craft-making dread.”
“Consumed by success,
I ignored your distress.
Now I’m riddled with heartache instead.”
Ella ran to embrace her dear twin.
“Let’s resolve this dilemma we’re in.
With no bragging or boast,
a true friendship will host
the real love we both cherish within.”
With the guilt and the shame in decline,
their differences helped them to shine.
Let’s put this to rest…
The heart-making contest?
Won! (with both sister’s design)
Love these two sisters with their ver different likes and skills, but in the end, their very same love for each other. Thanks for a sweet story, Cindy!
ENTRY POSTED FOR LARA
“A Valentine for Valentina” – by Lara
Valentina hated Valentine’s Day.
Every year her mother sent her to school in a red dress with a giant red bow in her hair.
Every year the mean girls teased her
And the mean boys made kissing sounds.
“I go by, ‘Val,’” she told her teacher.
But Mrs. Rogers-Henderson insisted on using her proper name.
Valentina wanted to be called Anne like Anne Shirley from “Anne of Green Gables” or Posy like Posy Fossil from “Ballet Shoes.”
Nobody listened.
One Valentine’s Day, she had enough!
When the bus arrived at school, she ducked around the corner and went to the park.
She sat in the cold watching the squirrels while she ate her lunch.
Suddenly, a police car pulled up.
Frantic, her mom leaped out. “Are you ok? Why aren’t you in school?”
She hugged Valentina. “I was worried sick.”
Valentina started to cry. She hadn’t meant to worry her mother.
“I’m sorry,” she said. “I just can’t stand those kids picking on me.”
“I know,” said her mother. She reached into her pocket and handed Valentina a beautiful heart-shaped valentine covered with lace and ribbons.
Valentina read the card and smiled. “Being loved wouldn’t solve her problems,” she thought, “But she knew she wouldn’t have to face them alone.”
Oh, poor Valentina! Good luck!
Poor Valentina! A tough name to be stuck with on February 14! But at least she knows her mother loves her 🙂 Thanks for joining in the contest fun, Lara!
The (Not So) Great Revenge
By Darcee A. Freier 214 words
Roma loomed over me. “Give me your cookies.”
She had a fondness for Mama’s homemade snickerdoodles. I handed them over. Nothing else to do. Roma had clobbered me more than once. As crumbs dribbled down her chin, I plotted revenge.
“Psst. Don’t give Roma a Valentine,” I whispered to Jenny. “Pass it on.” You could always count on Jenny to pass on a secret. I watched my suggestion spread around the room. Even the boys suffered from Roma’s wrath.
At the Valentine’s party, Alex started to drop a Valentine in Roma’s box. I gave him the mean eye. He moved on. We played games, ate store-bought cookies and finally opened our boxes.
Most every card came with candy. I hardly glanced at who they were from as I dug in. But I did sneak a peek at Roma. Two Valentines. Ha! And one was from Teacher.
Then I noticed Roma’s face was redder than Teacher’s Valentine. Would Roma explode?
No, a tear crawled down her cheek.
I was flabbergasted. Twinges of guilt poked around in my guts. I turned away, quick. But not quick enough, my candy didn’t taste so sweet.
Then I surprised myself. I walked right over to Roma. I patted her back. “There, there,” I said, and handed her a chocolate.
It takes a big heart to be kind to a bully. Your MC may have started with a thirst for revenge, but his//her heart was really in the right place after all. Thanks for a cute story, Darcee!
The Glass Heart
By Gela Gabriella Kalaitzidis – 195 words
I took this glass heart from my sister. She said it was special.
I took it even though it wasn’t mine to take.
I took it so I can have what Sophia has, so I can be like her.
But this is not a special heart. This heart has no powers. This heart has no secrets, it’s only cold glass in my hand… and I am not like my sister.
Now I don’t want this glass heart.
I will throw it in a well.
I will feed it to a lion.
I will build a rocket ship and launch it into outer space.
Sigh… This glass heart is stuck with me. It’s getting heavy, heavy like my arms.
I knock on her door, I look at my toes, I bite my nails.
“I’m sorry I took your glass heart” I say to my sister.
Sophia looks at me for a long time, in that special way that only teenage sisters do.
She gets taller, I get smaller.
Then Sophia says:
“You can keep that little glass heart, because you’re my special little sister.”
Now we’re both special.
I don’t even need the glass heart.
Love this sweet glimpse at the complicated nature of sisterly relationships, Gela. So understandable that she’d take the heart because she longs to be like the sister she admires, then feel bad about it, and realize that the heart won’t make her like her sister. Love the line “She gets taller, I get smaller.” – haven’t we all felt like that when we’ve done something we shouldn’t have?! I’m glad they ended up better off than they began 🙂
ENTRY POSTED FOR SUSAN
A Valentine’s Day Breakfast ‘Trip’
205 words
Molly has a funny feeling,
Wriggling in her tummy.
She’s made a very big mistake.
She’ll have to tell her mummy.
The feeling doubles, jumps about,
As she looks at the big mess.
Heart shaped toast, bright red jam,
Are splattered on her dress.
A pool of juice surrounds her feet,
Her socks are feeling sticky.
She moves her foot but it stays stuck,
And Cat begins to lick it.
The tummy feeling leaps about,
As if sailing on a boat.
The bright blue tray beneath her feet,
Is beginning now to float.
As Cat nibbles the jammy toast,
It becomes a captain’s hat.
Sticky boat, sticky girl,
And a very sticky cat.
The cat jumps on the bobbing tray,
And shouts out, ‘All aboard!’
The wooden tray just grows and grows,
And sails right through the door.
They sail along the ocean street,
Crowds shouting, ‘Here’s the winner!
God bless the good boat Valentine,
And all who sail within her!’
Molly’s tummy somersaults,
As they sail back to her door,
Where mum and dad stand cheering.
So Molly jumps ashore!
Her tummy stops its bouncing.
It’s beginning to feel stable.
Fresh toast, fresh juice and great big smiles
Are soon present at the table.
205 words
Susan Valli
I love this story. Creative and fun. Good luck!
Such a clever concept. Very creative.
Cute, creative story, Susan! Makes me think go the good ship lollipop for some reason 🙂 I felt Molly’s guilty nerves when she surveyed the mess, and her reassurance when mom and dad seemed to understand and all was well. I think the sticky Cat was my favorite 🙂 Thanks for joining in the contest fun!
Nice flow! This was fun to read!
Wow! Amazing stories. Woohoo! I’ve just managed to post mine on my blog in time.
Yay!!! Can’t wait to read it, Diane! ❤
RAISINS OR FROSTING
214 words
by Ashley Pierson
Cookies out on full display, with heart shaped beauties right on top.
“You get your own row and your own holiday. But hey, we’re fine on the bottom shelf,” said Oatmeal Raisin.
“All the frosting, sprinkles and cute writing, who can compete,” Oatmeal Raisin blabbered.
“Hello, everyone, it’s nice to meet you,” said Valentine cookie.
“You won’t be here long,” Chocolate Chip said.
“Rub it in,” said Peanut Butter cookie.
“Someone will be in for all of us,” Chocolate Chip added.
“Easy for you to say chocolate chip,” said Sugar cookie. “You’re the most popular,”
“He is dreamy,” said Shortbread cookie.
“Shh, someone just came in,” said Peanut butter.
Chocolate chip was boxed up and handed over to a smiling lady.
“Not surprising that he’s gone. I’m sure you’re next Valentine. Who can resist your looks
compared to my shriveled raisins,” said Oatmeal Raisin.
A hand placed Oatmeal Raisin in a box, along with Valentine.
“We’re in a box, together!” said Valentine.
“Of course, you’re on top. That’s okay; you’re much prettier than I am,” Oatmeal Raisin said
with a sudden squishy feeling inside.
“Oatmeal Raisin, It’s not what we look like on the outside that matters,” said Valentine.
Oatmeal Raisin blushed, Valentine was right. Cookies were made to be enjoyed, raisins or
frosting.
Fun, original POV, Ashley! I love this whole world-of-the-cookie thing you’ve got going on here! Of course Chocolate Chip is the most favorite, and the pretty special Valentine cookie too. But you know what? Oatmeal raisin are MY favorite :). Like Valentine Cookie said, it’s not what they look like, it’s what’s on the inside that counts 🙂
Buffa-lonely Love Day
214 words
By Jennifer Broedel
At the zoo, it’s party time:
zebras clamor, monkeys climb.
Elephants hang decorations—
time for Love Day celebrations.
Sending cards, they’re all gung-ho…
all except for Buffalo.
Looking for her valentine…
Doesn’t find one!
“So what?! FINE!”
Scrunched-up nose and pouted lips,
tucks her hooves into her hips.
“Such a wild, rambunctious crowd,
much too lively, much too loud.
Had enough of this commotion.
Too much lovey-dove emotion.”
Quick, she trots around the zoo,
making others cranky too.
Creeps up to the three baboons…
POP! There go their three balloons.
Finds two penguins on the ice…
steals their heart-shaped pebbles (twice).
One bear’s heart cake—Where’d it go?
Who would smash it?
“Buffalo!”
Party ruined: roars and growls.
Buffalo just sits and scowls.
Buffa-lonely, all alone.
“Still no cards, still on my own.
Wrecked their party, made them mad.
What a rotten day I’ve had.”
Maybe if she sent a letter…
she might feel a little better.
“Sorry that I wrecked your bash,
and tossed your goodies in the trash…
See, I found it pretty hard
when all but me received a card.”
Party mix-up, at the zoo…
“You got no card? We never knew!”
“Buffalo, look here and see:
your valentine fell in this tree!”
Buffalo is so excited!
Party re-do… All invited!
I love this! Good luck!
I thought this was so good. Your rhyme is great! Really well done. 🙂
Cute story, great rhyme, Jennifer! Fun to read! Buffalo was very believable in his reaction. Of course he felt angry and went around ruining things when he was feeling shunned and unloved! Who wouldn’t (even if it isn’t right)? I’m glad it turned out to be a mix-up and there was a re-do 🙂
Aw, thanks so much! Susanna, I love the challenge of writing a piece for your contests, and the entries are ALWAYS fun to read! Thanks for all of the energy you put into these. ❤
BOOKWORM’S VALENTINE – 207 words
by Dee Knabb
Assigned to the reference section, Dewey often wiggled elsewhere.
A steady diet of facts did not satisfy him. Adventure, space travel and funny picture books were
too delicious.
“Why are you on my shelf?” asked PB.
“Visiting you, my best friend,” said Dewey.
PB looked worried.
“I promise not to devour all the words this time,” said Dewey.
But once he delved into an old favorite, he gobbled it up.
PB cried, “No, Dewey You promised.”
Dewey hung his head and dragged himself home. Guilt made his insides upset.
How could he apologize?
He crawled, coiled, and counted his choices…candy? roses? a surprise? No – a valentine.
He crept inside an outdated reference book, inched along a page, and nibbled certain letters
but left others.
He removed the page, rolled it up, and tied a ribbon around the scroll.
His stomach felt better. His heart soared. Off he wiggled to PB’s shelf.
“I’m still mad.”
“I was wrong,” said Dewey, “I made this for you.”
PB opened the sheet. While letters were missing, a message remained.
‘I’m sorry, PB.
Can you forgive me?
You are my best friend.
Can we try again?
Love,
Dewey’
“Okay,” said PB, “lets gl to your shelf.”
THE END
Such a cute story, Dee. Takes devouring books literally 🙂 A good thing for voracious readers…not so good for a book being eaten 🙂 Thanks for an original fun entry!
THE SAGA OF CUPID
By Linda Staszak 212 words
Cupid stretched his feathered wings,
He grabbed his trusty bow,
Slung arrow quiver on his back,
And he was good to go.
Now off to find a lonely soul
He hoped he wouldn’t maim,
For once a year was not enough
To ensure perfect aim.
Cupid let an arrow fly,
It sailed into the dark.
Quacking ducks jumped from the pond
And flew out of the park.
The second arrow sailed away.
He heard a tiny wail.
Arrow two had sliced right through
A bunny’s fuzzy tail.
“So sorry,” Cupid shouted,
“this is not what I had planned.
My purpose is to bring some love
To all throughout the land.”
He hadn’t thought it would be hard
To find someone to help.
Another arrow zipped away,
Followed by a yelp.
“I work alone,” Tooth Fairy groaned,
“I don’t want any friends.”
He gathered up the scattered teeth,
While Cupid made amends.
Cupid slumped and hung his head,
The end was drawing near.
He had to spread some love around
Or wait until next year.
And then he yelled, “Oh whoop-dee-doo!”
He zoomed into the air.
“The answer’s always been here,
the answer’s everywhere.
I figured out, to share some love
without inflicting pain,
I’ll scatter flowers from the sky,
like Valentiny rain.”
So creative! Very cute!
Fun story!
Cute! I’m glad I didn’t post my Tooth Fairy story, too! Good luck!
Fun story, Linda! Love that he shot the Tooth Fairy 🙂 I confess I never thought about the fact that only shooting once a year wouldn’t do much for one’s aim 🙂 And what a great solution Cupid thought up! Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun!
Celebrate Every Day With A Poem
Dragon wrote about birthdays, puppies, and even flowers. Her motto, “Celebrate every day with a poem!” Her poems would rhyme, or not, have patterns or not. Her friend, Val always said, “Dragon is the best poet.”
School was having a Valentine’s Day card with poetry contest, awarding prizes ,including a crown. Students would craft a Valentine card with their poem inside.
Dragon strutted around the classroom. “I celebrate every day with a poem. The crown is mine.” Students worked on their poems.
“Roses are red,
Violets are blue,
Will you be my Valentine?”
Dragon snorted, “That doesn’t rhyme, and the meter is off.”
“You are my friend,
until the end.”
“Rhyming doesn’t make it a poem,” Dragon puffed.
Dragon rhymed, counted syllables, and revised. She cut and glued, but something was missing. “What are you celebrating?” Dragon asked herself.
Valentine’s Day arrived. The competition was fierce. Val took home the crown for her crafty, heartfelt card to Dragon.
“Happy Valentine’s Day to my Best Friend,
You’re a poet to the end!”
Dragon earned an honorable mention for her haiku birthday card to Val.
celebrating you
your kindness shines like your smile
happy birthday friend
“Celebrating my friend’s birthday was more important than a crown,” Dragon smiled.
Sometimes pride can make dragons a wee bit arrogant 🙂 But she figured out what was important by the end 🙂 Thanks for a fun entry, Kathy!
ENTRY POSTED FOR JAN
Puppies Can’t Eat Chocolate
By Jan Westmark
Scruffy couldn’t wait for Valentine’s Day.
“I want a heart-shaped box of candy,” he said.
Scruffy knew his stomach would be happy when he ate each piece.
“Puppies can’t eat chocolate. It’s bad for them,” his mom said.
Scruffy was shocked. And very sad.
“Why does chocolate have to be bad for puppies?” he groaned.
On Valentine’s Day Scruffy saw a beautiful heart-shaped box on the counter.
Scruffy was upset. He wanted to cry.
He decided to be a bad puppy and hide the box since he couldn’t eat chocolate.
His family was surprised the box was missing. They started searching.
Scruffy didn’t help look for the box.
“My stomach hurts,” he said.
“Scruffy, did you hide the box?” his mom asked.
Scruffy didn’t answer. He pretended to chase his tail and scratch his ear.
Scruffy felt very bad.
Then the box was found.
“I was sad I couldn’t have chocolate so I hid it. I’m really sorry,” he said.
His mom hugged him. And his mom forgave him.
She pushed the box toward him. “It’s for you.”
Scruffy was surprised. He felt happy.
He opened the heart-shaped box. It wasn’t chocolate. It was filled with heart-shaped dog bones.
Scruffy tasted one and his stomach started dancing. Scruffy did, too.
Happy Valentine’s Day, Scruffy.
How sweet of Scruffy’s mom to give him a box of heart-shaped dog bones – the perfect valentine gift for a puppy! I’m glad he didn’t eat the chocolate! Thanks for a sweet entry, Jan!
ENTRY POSTED FOR DEB
SOMETHING SPECIAL
207 Words
By Deb Sullivan
Every year on Valentine’s Day, Mom left Lola something special. Lola felt warm and
fuzzy just thinking about it. She dreamed of finding candy coated confections and caramel delights.
Today was the big day! Lola rose before the sun and scrambled downstairs. In the kitchen,
she spied a toaster and Chip’s dog bowl. She saw cans and containers. But nothing
special.
Last year on Valentine’s Day, Lola found an assortment of treats at her breakfast spot.
This year, Lola found a bowl and a spoon.
Zipping to the pantry, Lola looked in drawers and behind bags. She saw pasta and dog food.
But nothing special.
Maybe Mom forgot Valentine’s Day. Last weekend, she forgot her keys at the
supermarket. (She also forgot to buy the Sugar Snaps Lola put on the shopping list.)
Maybe Mom was mad because Lola didn’t eat broccoli. Or clean her room.
Maybe Lola didn’t deserve something special….
Lola’s chin quivered as she headed upstairs.
Climbing back in bed, Lola heard a growling sound. She creeped towards the hall
closet and opened the door. There was Chip….chewing on a heart shaped box.
“Yikes!” said Mom, coming from her room. Then she giggled. Lola did too.
She hugged Mom. Tight.
Something special indeed.
I wonder if Chip felt guilty…? Good luck!
Oh gosh! Isn’t that just such an awful feeling when you’re all excited for something and it isn’t there? I’m glad mom didn’t forget and that Lola didn’t end up disappointed. And that naughty Chip! I hope he felt guilty 🙂 Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun, Deb!
ENTRY POSTED FOR OLIVIA
“Spoon in Hand” – by DL Rehfield
NO Wait!!!
What are you doing!?
This is not where I live.
I do not recognize you
You feel rather small.
And that is not what I am meant to do.
Is that what I think it is- MUD?
You think you can hide
I saw what you did,
I’m telling Grandma
You took me outside.
No Wait!!!
It will be alright.
I am just borrowing you
for a short time.
I have this important task
and I need your help.
The Chickens are hungry
A feast we must make,
But if you won’t help me
I fear a mistake.
It is almost supper time
And we cant be late
No Wait!!!
You took me without asking
And you know that is wrong,
Go ask Grandma
before its to late.
Then we will see
If she says its okay
For us to play.
No Wait!!!
That would take too long.
The Chickens are hungry
And waiting to be feed.
The shells the grain
The seed and the Mud.
So here we go…
Stirring stirring
Scoop scoop scoop
Patty patty
They are fed
No Wait!!!
I lost my spoon!
I only borrowed yours!
Grandma I put it back!
The spoon in question
Grandmas hand,
Smack smack smack.
No Wait!!!
I think it’s to late.
I’m glad the chickens finally got fed and I hope the “spoon borrower” wasn’t in TOO much trouble! Thanks for joining in the Valentine contest fun, Olivia!
ENTRY POSTED FOR Juliana
The Unkeepable Promise
By Juliana Savia Clayton
@kidlit_writer
211 words
“I promise not to be happy when I move,” Opie said as she hugged her best friend goodbye.
“I promise not to be even a little bit happy staying here,” Beppino replied.
One year later, Beppino had kept his promise. He was not happy.
Red hearts and pink Cupids hung from every window on his way to school. Beppino felt the start of a smile and quickly frowned instead.
Remember your promise to Opie, he thought.
When he got to school, his desk was piled high with Valentine’s Day cards and candy.
“Awesome!” he exclaimed.
He didn’t mean to feel happy – but he did.
His insides squirmed uncomfortably. What would Opie say if she knew?
When he got home, he saw a letter with his name on it.
“Dearest Beppino, I’m sorry to tell you that I am pretty happy in my new town. You are still my best friend, but I met some new friends. I tried not to like them, but I just do. I’m sorry we made that silly promise. Let’s both be happy, okay? Your Valentine, Opie.”
Beppino grinned. Tonight, he would write Opie back. But right now, he wanted nothing more than to play outside with his friends. So he did. And he was happy.
I enjoyed your story. Such a cute concept and also relatable to kids. I’m glad both characters chose to be happy in the end.
Thank you, Sarah! I really appreciate that! It was really fun to write!
Such a cute story, Juliana! That is SO the kind of promise kids make to each other the pain of the moment, too young to have perspective and understand that they will always be friends, even if not together, and it’s okay to be happy! I’m glad both were able to find happiness and let go of the guilt. Thanks for joining in the contest fun!
ENTRY POSTED FOR MICHELLE
GUILTY AS CHARGED
By Michelle Kennedy (WC 214)
Penny Sue had a crush
that made her heart flutter.
Each time she saw Jake,
she’d stammer and stutter.
She wanted to tell him,
but speaking was hard.
“I’ve got it!” she thought.
“A Valentine’s Card!”
She grabbed pen and paper,
drew a big heart,
gluing globs full of glitter
on top of her art.
The big day arrived-
It was Valentine’s Day.
Penny Sue was all smiles,
bright-eyed and gay.
She walked up to Jake
and gave him her card.
His face became flushed.
She’d caught him off-guard!
Turning and running,
he went out of site.
Penny Sue was confused.
“Something’s not right!”
“What did I do?
I scared him away!”
Then sadly she frowned,
feeling shattered and grey.
Next time she saw Jake
it wasn’t the same.
Instead of heart tingles,
she only felt shame.
Another day passed.
A day turned to four…
Penny Sue then decided
she’d like Jake no more!
She crossed off his name
from her book and her folder.
Next time she’d see Jake,
she’d give a cold shoulder!
One day at lunch
Jake sat by her seat.
He passed her a note
and a dark chocolate treat.
“Do you like me still?”
She quietly read.
“Guilty as charged!”
She laughingly said.
This story was a trip down memory lane for me (when I was in 4th grade…without the happy ending). I love the “cold shoulder”, the part where she crossed off his name, and “guilty as charged” at the end. You really captured the angst of that age. Great job!
Aw! Thanks Jill! 😀
Cute! I like “…feeling shattered and grey.” Good luck!
Great job capturing the agony of childhood crushes, Michelle! With the crossing out his name and giving him the cold shoulder… and then immediately forgiving all when he turned out to like her 🙂 Very cute! Thanks for joining in the contest fun!
VALENTINES FOR ALL
By Marjorie David – 209 Words
Megan gripped her class list in excitement for the Valentine’s party at school.
At home she sorted and selected cards. Then she signed, stuffed, and stacked envelopes.
Mom double-checked as the Valentines piled into a bag.
“Megan,” said Mom, “You are short one card.”
Megan’s head hung. “I did not make one for Angela. She is mean.”
Mom said, “I know, but Angela IS part of your class.”
Megan scribbled out a card and dumped it in the bag.
At school she slipped her cards into everyone’s Valentine holder, but not Angela’s card. It remained in her bag.
During the party the holders were passed out. Excitement rose as cards were opened.
Megan glanced at Angela. She only had a few cards. Her head was down.
Was she crying? Serves her right, she thought, but Megan felt guilty. Angela’s card lay heavy in her bag. Her tummy knotted.
Megan pulled out the card. Going to Angela’s desk she stammered, “I…I…. I’m sorry. I didn’t give you your card. Here, this is for you. Happy Valentine’s Day.”
Angela looked up her voice quivering, “You can put it in my holder.”
Megan started turning away, when Angela said, “Wait! Here is yours.”
“Let’s open them together,” smiled Megan.
Angela smiled back.
It can be hard to be nice to someone who isn’t nice to you, but sometimes there’s a reason and you never feel bad for being kind. I’m glad Megan and Angela warmed toward each other at the end. Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun, Marjorie!
ENTRY POSTED FOR SCOTT
Mom’s Valentine
by Scott Kinder
It was Valentine’s Day. Everyone brought their gifts for Mom to the table. I would have had one, but…
I forgot.
Steven was the first to present his gift. A box of Crunchy Munchies, Mom’s favorite.
My palms began to sweat.
Isabella was next. She made Mom a necklace out of her tiny rubber doll collection. It was pretty weird looking, but of course, Mom loved it.
My face was heating up.
Dad picked Mom flowers from Summer’s Field where they had their first date. Mom cried.
Oh, how could I forget Valentine’s Day?!?
The last to go was my baby sister Lily. She gave Mom a lump of clay. That’s right, a lump of clay! How could Mom like that? But somehow, she did.
I could barely look at my mom with a mouth full of Munchies and all those tiny dolls around her neck. Their faces seemed to be mocking me.
In bed that night, as I waited for the day to end, Mom came to my room. She was holding a box of chocolate covered gummies. Who gave her those? I wondered. She was smiling the biggest smile I’d ever seen. She handed me the chocolates and said, “Will you be my valentine?”
I was shocked. Speechless.
I was…
in love.
I love this!
Cute! Good luck!
You did a great job showing family dynamics, Scott! I love the “I would have had one but I forgot..!” 🙂 and the weird doll necklace… and the lump of clay… and the flowers from the first date field that made mom cry – just perfect, all of it! I could totally imagine this family! And I could feel that rising sense of guilt as everyone had a present…except him. Nicely done! Thanks for joining in the contest fun!
I usually write funny stories and poems but since this is a Valentine’s Day contest I tried to add a bit more heart to it. And it is exactly 214 words. Yay! Thanks for the challenge, Susanna.
How it All Began
by Linda Hofke
I remember my first Valentine’s Day. Renee came home angry and…
…well, uh, it was kind of my fault. I felt terrible. I couldn’t even look her in the eye. I simply put my head down and contemplated what to say. Then it came to me:
Dear Renee,
Roses are red. Violets are blue.
I’m sorry I gnawed on your new leather shoe.
And I’m sorry about the stinky moustache
I got when I nosed my way through the trash.
And about that puddle by the back door–
though I tried very hard, I could hold it no more.
But I promise, tomorrow I will do better.
Love,
Shamrock (your new Irish Setter)
But, apparently, she doesn’t speak dog. She didn’t understand a thing. What else could I do? I crept away, low and slow, and bunkered under the bed.
Later, Renee came in with the dog crate. Off we went in the car. I whimpered as we approached the pound. And then…
…we drove right past it and ended up at a dog park. We played and ate treats and snuggled.
That was a long time ago. I behave now–well, most of the time–and Renee loves me, no matter what. Not just on Valentine’s Day. Every day. And I love her.
A perfect story of puppy love! I like the combination of the prose beginning and ending with the poetic letter in the middle. Great job!
thank you, Jill. 🙂
I’m glad you had fun with the contest, Linda! This is such a cute story. It’s hard to be a puppy – so much to learn, and so many chances to make mistakes! 🙂 I love that Shamrock wrote her a Valentine poem apology 🙂 I’m glad everything worked out well 🙂 Thanks for joining in on Valentiny!
thanks, Susanna. I wasn’t completley satified with my entry this year. It’s been a busy month and I was rushed. But this is a start and I can always expand/revise.
Thanks for holding these challenges. They always keep me writing.
ENTRY POSTED FOR CARMEN
Carmen Castillo Gilbert, PhD
THE COCONUT COVERED CHOCOLATES
(211 words)
Georgina couldn’t wait to buy her sister Maria three Valentine’s Day gifts.
She was going to bring them to Maria at the hospital.
Maria was recovering from an operation.
Georgina and her dad went to the store.
A beautiful card.
Georgina printed her name carefully in it.
A red and pink balloon.
Georgina chose the prettiest one.
And a box of coconut-covered chocolates.
Georgina’s favorite kind of chocolates.
That night Georgina stared at the chocolates on her night stand. They smelled very good, so good that she opened the box and ate them all!
Next day at the hospital her parents asked Georgina to hand her sister her gifts.
First Georgina gave Maria the card. Maria read it aloud.
“Georgina, I like the way you printed your name,” she said.
Then Georgina gave her the red and pink balloon.
“Let’s tie it to my bed,” Maria suggested.
“Where are the chocolates, Georgina?” Mom asked.
Georgina looked down at her toes. She turned purple. Everyone stopped talking.
Tears!
Sobs!
Little shoulders shook!
“I ate them! I’m SORRY!” Georgina wailed.
Maria hugged her baby sister.
“I know you meant well, Georgina and I’m glad you told the truth’.
Georgina nodded, wiped her tears, and exclaimed, I’ll never eat any of your chocolates again!”
Cute story, Carmen! (I’m glad you found time to write one, my NH friend!) I felt the guilt! Good luck!
Cute story, Carmen. Lucky for Georgina that Maria was so forgiving 🙂 But coconut covered chocolates ARE awfully hard to resist… 🙂 Thanks for joining in the contest fun!
Valentine Dilemma
By Ranessa Doucet
214 words
Violet woke up and put on every piece of red clothing she owned. It was Valentine’s Day after all! She ran downstairs before anyone else woke up and made beautiful valentines for mom, dad, and even her dog. She did NOT make a valentine for her brother, Max. Yesterday, he called her “stinky face” and borrowed her FAVORITE red race-car without asking.
Violet’s mom came downstairs and squealed with excitement when she saw her heart-shaped card. Violet’s dad came downstairs next and gave her a big hug when he saw the cool valentine she made for him.
Finally, Max came downstairs hiding something behind his back. “Surprise!” he said, and he handed Violet the biggest, sparkliest card she’d ever seen. It even said “I love you” on it.
Violet’s heart sank. She looked at her brother’s proud face and felt guilty about not making a card for him. Although he wasn’t very nice to her yesterday, Max still loved her and Violet still loved him. Violet knew what she had to do. She ran to her room, grabbed the red race-car, and stuck a bow on it. She handed it to Max, and said “Happy Valentines Day!”. His face lit up like a disco ball, and Violet’s heart skipped a beat.
Cute story, Ranessa! I think Violet used to live at my house – I definitely had a daughter who was capable of putting on every single piece of red clothing 🙂 I felt her excitement over Valentines Day, the believable sibling relationship between her and Max, and her guilt when he was nicer than she was 🙂 Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun!
Who Will Be Mine?
(36 Words)
By Susie Sawyer
Victor’s much too pushy.
Alex picks his nose.
Liam is a messy eater.
Emmitt chews his toes.
Noah’s always talking.
Theo likes to fart.
I feel bad, but
None of them will
Ever have my heart.
Haha! This is too funny! Love it!
This made me laugh. It only took 36 words to bring me back to fourth grade.
Susie, I just LOVE this!!! And I love you 🙂 I hope you had a phenomenal Valentine’s Day!
Very cute! I can totally picture this in my daughter’s daycare! Good luck!
Hahaha! What a crew! I don’t blame her for not picking any of them – I don’t think she should feel bad! 🙂 Thanks for the laugh, Susie!
Blue Whale’s Big Heart
by Susan Halko
214 words
Of all the animals in the world, Blue Whale had the biggest heart.
That’s why he couldn’t wait for Valentine’s Day, when he’d be in warmer waters with Ruby.
Every year, Blue swam from the north, and Ruby swam from the south.
They met in the middle at the Valentine’s Sea of Love Dance.
But this year, two weeks into his journey, Blue realized he forgot to say goodbye to his pet, Fish.
“Oh no!” he thought.
Blue’s heart sang for Ruby, but when he thought about Fish, it ached.
And as he swam, it grew heavier.
He had to turn around.
“I’m sorry, Fish,” he said when he reached home.
“Hey–you could come with me!”
Fish held on tight as Blue cruised to the dance.
When they arrived, Ruby was not there.
Blue’s heart sank like a 400-pound anchor.
“No!” he blubbered.
“She’s gone!”
Then he heard a beautiful sound.
“Sorry I’m late!”
It was Ruby!
“I got halfway here and realized I forgot to say goodbye to Amber.”
A small fish waved from behind Ruby.
Blue handed Ruby a bouquet of kelp. “Happy Valentine’s Day!”
“Happy Valentine’s Day,” said Ruby, and she gave Blue a box of chocolate krill.
Fish and Amber exchanged shy glances.
Then they all danced their hearts out.
I like the combination of an under the sea setting & valentine’s story. I can picture beautiful illustrations accompanying this heartwarming story.
Haha, this is cute and funny. I like the “chocolate krill”. (Ew!) Good luck!
I thought this did a really nice job conveying guilt. Poor Blue! I’m glad he was able to see Ruby in the end.
Very creative to have an ocean setting for a Valentine story, Susan! And it does seem that Ruby and Blue were made for each other – so similar in their natures and behaviors. What good friends they are – to Amber and Fish and to each other. Love that “they all danced their hearts out”! 🙂 Thanks for this sweet story!
Chadwick the Zombie Cooks Up a Valentine
(199 Words)
By Katrina Swenson
Chadwick the zombie was often alone,
feeling quite lonesome and blue.
While all of his peers nibbled brains, eyes, and ears,
Chadwick baked bread and cooked stew.
“Nobody gets me,” young Chadwick complained.
“But next week is Valentine’s Day!
Instead of fresh hearts I’ll bring raspberry tarts,
That should bring new friends my way!”
Valentine’s came and his classmates gave out
boxes of brains and warm bile.
Chadwick left sweets at the kids’ assigned seats
then waited to see them all smile.
“Ew!” “What is this?” “Who’d bring sweets to a party?”
Chadwick felt tears in his eyes.
His classmates went still when they saw those tears spill,
ashamed as they heard his soft cries.
Norbert, a boy in the back of the class
squeamishly reached for his treat.
He screwed up his face, then he took a small taste…
and smiled! “This is good! Let’s all eat!”
Zombies were gobbling those tarts in a flash.
“Chadwick, good job!” “Crust has flake!”
Chadwick then heard these delectable words:
“Hey, could you teach us to bake?”
Chadwick the zombie was often with pals,
smiling for hours on end.
Blending and stirring, kneading and whirring,
mixing up fun with his friends.
I enjoyed your story. It’s a fun premise and I love the happy ending. I also like your word choices: blending, stirring, kneading, whirring, gobbling, etc.
Cute story! Good luck!
Nice job, Katrina! You created an interesting character, gave him a problem, engineered a complete circular story arc, made Chadwick’s friends guilty, and made sure it was Valentiny all in 199 words…and rhyme!! Well done! Thanks for joining in the Valentiny fun!
Noses are Red…
(213 words)
by JC Kelly
Taylor pulled out every drawer, searching for any shade of red and pink marker she could find. Crayons and pencils too. She dug all the way to the bottom of her craft bins, searching for the perfect pieces of lace and pink ribbons.
She did her happy dance when she found pink glitter and heart-shaped stickers. And, yay, glitter glue! Nothing is better than glitter glue.
Armed with a stack of construction paper and rolls of pink washi tape, she was ready. She covered the floor with red paper and set to work.
The scent of markers and glue quickly filled the room. And the air sparkled with a haze of pink glitter.
Valentine’s Day is all about sharing, but Taylor had already shared something with Momma…the world’s worst cold. She had to make it up to Momma by making THE WORLD’S LARGEST VALENTINE’S DAY CARD.
When Taylor stepped back to admire her work, she suddenly noticed a trail of glitter, dried-out markers, empty glue bottles and piles of bare sticker sheets picked clean of glittery hearts. She hoped that she hadn’t accidentally created the world’s largest, pinkest mess.
Just then, Momma shuffled by, blowing her nose. With a whisper of a voice, she croaked, “I love it. Thank you!”
Glitter glue really is the best! Good luck!
Hahaha! I can see how the world’s largest Valentine might well result in the world’s largest mess, JC 🙂 Love that Taylor is trying to make up for giving her mom a cold with a beautiful Valentine to show how much she loves her 🙂 Thanks for joining in the contest fun!
ENTRY POSTED FOR KAREN (received on time)
By: Karen M. Greenwald
Word Count: 214
The Tattle Tale
Emma grinned sheepishly. “Mom, can I have one of the chocolate caramels early?!”
“Why do you think I bought you Valentine’s Day candy?” Sarah hadn’t told anyone about the heart-shaped sweets…
“A little birdie told me.”
“Emma!” She shook her head. “I warned you about lying again.”
“But I’m not!” Emma shouted.
“Now, you’re grounded…and I’m returning the candies to the store. You don’t belong rummaging through other people’s things.”
Tears streamed down Emma’s face. She whispered her protest again. “Honestly Mom, a little birdie told me!”
“Go to your room, young lady.” Sarah sighed. “Perhaps your imaginary spy-birdie can tell you why lying hurts everyone.”
Stomp! Stomp! Stomp!
Sarah heard Emma climb all fourteen steps.
After school on Valentine’s Day, Emma went back to her room.
Sarah joined her there later. “Can you tell me the truth yet, because I have a special Valentine’s dinner we shouldn’t waste.”
“Mom,” she said. “You deserve an apology…from someone.” Emma pulled out a golden cage topped with a shiny big bow.
“Hi Sarah,” said a squeaky voice. “I’m your Valentine’s Day gift from Emma. She told me to stay put. But yesterday I snuck out and found the candies…Will you forgive me?”
A shocked Sarah hugged her daughter. “A little birdie really did tell you!”
I like that she climbed the 14 steps. 🙂 Good luck!
The only thing worse than being caught doing something bad is being accused of something bad you didn’t do! Poor Emma! I’m glad she was able to get the bird to explain! Thanks for joining in the contest fun with this cute story, Karen!
ENTRY POSTED FOR MARGARET (received on time)
An Extra Special Valentine – Margaret Taylor
Janie skips down the hall. Pausing, she peeps into the Special Ed room. In the corner, she spies Skipper reclining in his weird looking chair.
If Frankenstein needs a wheelchair, he can borrow Skipper’s. It’s bad enough that he can’t walk or talk. But, to have to ride in that contraption is totally uncool!
Chanting, “Roses are red, violets are blue. Riding in Skipper’s crazy chariot is something I wouldn’t do.” Janie races to her classroom.
Slamming her backpack down on a messy desk, she tugs the zipper. Gently, she slides out a large envelope. Opening it she pulls out twenty Valentines. She spent all day Saturday selecting the color, shape, and design for her masterpieces. Some are red, some are pink, and some are purple. Lacey paper hearts adorn a few. Others have red glitter hearts. They are all different, uniquely designed for each classmate.
Gazing at the assorted shapes of colored cards, she swallows the lump in her throat. Then she reaches for the most beautiful of all the cards. With a determined look, she slips out of the classroom.
Softly, knocking she enters the Special Ed room. With a timid smile, she hands Skipper the card. “Will you be my extra special Valentine?” she whispers. Slowly, he nods.
It can be easier to make fun of something that makes you uncomfortable than to embrace it. I’m glad Janie had a change of heart and I bet Skipper really appreciated it! Thanks for joining in the contest fun, Margaret!