Here We Go Again! Mix ‘n’ Match Mini Writing Challenge Take 2!

Good morning, my little chickens!

Are things feeling a wee bit humdrum?

Is daily routine getting you down?

Does this look familiar?

Just as I suspected!

It seems we’ve all got a case of the I Haven’t Gone Anywhere Done Anything Seen Anyone For A Year So What The Heck Can I Write About Blues!

But don’t worry.

I can fix that! 😊

All that’s required is a little tomfoolery! A few high jinx and shenanigans to knock the K off of FUNK and get us back to good old F-U-N!

Who’s with me?

Give me a woo!

WOO!

Give me a hoo!

HOO!

What does that spell?

Well. . . technically it doesn’t actually spell anything, since neither woo nor hoo is a letter, but one way or another it comes out

WOOHOO!

Now! Let’s have some fun!

And fun in this instance is. . .

another round of the ever-popular, practically world famous

(Not a contest exactly… no room in the blog calendar, no time for judging, no gigantic prizes on offer…but still (hopefully!) tons of fun!)

Here’s how it works:

Starting today, each Monday until June 21st (which makes 7 Mondays total and will get us to the end of the school term) I will post a Mix ‘n’ Match Mini Writing Prompt for a 100 word story.  Post your story in the comment section for that week’s challenge (or if you have trouble posting it, email it to me and I’ll post it for you.)  At the end of the 7 weeks, everyone who has posted one story for each week’s prompt will

A) have 7 brand new stories to play with!  (Who knows? Your next picture book or even chapter book or longer might be sparked by something you write for the Challenge!)

B) be able to take credit for entertaining lots of fellow writers and their kids (not to mention you’ll entertain yourself and your own kids!)

and

C) qualify to win a prize from the Mix ‘n’ Match Mini Mystery Bag of Marvelous Prizes for Writers! (Last year we managed to scare up enough prizes that all of the approximately 40 people who completed the challenge got something, but we’ll have to see how the available prizes stack up this year – if there aren’t enough for everyone who completes the challenge we’ll have to randomly draw winners until we run out of prizes, but you will still win A and B above!)

You can compete with yourself to see if you can write all 7 stories!  You can compete with your writing friends to see if you can write more than they do! And if you want to get really competitive, you can all read the stories that are posted and “like” the ones you think are best and see who gets the most “likes” 😊 (If you do that there might be some special prizes…who can tell??? 😊)

When the going get’s humdrum, children’s writers beat the blues by playing writing games and creating new stories to keep themselves and everyone around them entertained!

So here we go!

Mix ‘n’ Match Mini Writing Prompt #1 for Week of May 10:

Choose a character from Column A and something the character needs from Column B and write a 100 word story for children entitled _____Column A_____ Needs A _____Column B_____ If you wish, you may also select a random item from Column C to include in your story.

For example: Hermit Crab Needs A Home. (And perhaps you’d include a harmonica somewhere in the story.)

Or, if something in Column C strikes your fancy you can use that as the thing your character needs, e.g. Hummingbird Needs Help.

Get the idea?

Here are the options:

Column A – CharacterColumn B – Something NeededColumn C – random item
HedgehogHomeHockey Stick (or Hockey Puck)
HammerheadHugHorse (or Sea Horse)
Hermit CrabHintHarmonica
HummingbirdHobbyHero
HareHolidayHelp
Henry or HilaryHatHelicopter

If a central idea would be helpful to you in your writing, you can focus your story on Mother’s Day, since that is fresh in all our minds this morning 😊, but that is NOT required.

In an attempt to answer possible questions I will say:

  • you can write as many stories as you want each week
  • you can post them at any time during the week (just make sure they’re on the Monday Mix ‘n’ Match Mini post for the week you’re entering – e.g. below for Week #1))
  • you can play catch up (so if you miss a week you can go back and add to an earlier week if you’re trying to complete the challenge and qualify for prizes as long as all entries are posted on the correct week and are posted no later than Saturday June 26th at midnight Eastern time.)
  • no illustration notes
  • You may go over the word count if you’re on a roll and you wish to (because there is no judging 😊)
  • You may write in poetry or prose

(This is where the sample I intended to write belongs, but since I haven’t had time to write it yet I’ll have to add it in!)

And here’s a little sampling of the prizes up for grabs to whet your competitive spirit 😊 MORE TO COME!

When it comes time for prizes, names of all those who completed the challenge will be drawn randomly and matched with prizes drawn randomly until we run out! 😊

⭐️ Picture Book Critique from Penny Parker Klostermann, the lovely and talented author of THERE WAS AN OLD DRAGON WHO SWALLOWED A KNIGHT (Random House 2015) and A COOKED-UP FAIRY TALE (Random House 2017)

⭐️ 30 Minute Q&A with Penny Klostermann

⭐️ Picture Book MS Critique OR Query Letter Critique (Winner’s Choice) from Jennifer Buchet, debut author of LITTLE MEDUSA’S HAIR DO-LEMMA (Clear Fork/Spork May 11, 2021)

⭐️ Picture Book MS Critique from Jen Raudenbush, agented writer of picture books, middle grade, and poetry. (Represented by Natascha Morris of The Tobias Literary Agency)

⭐️ 30 minute Zoom chat about anything industry related (manuscript, query letter, best practices for querying) with Becky Scharnhorst, amazing author of MY SCHOOL STINKS (Philomel Books, July 6, 2021)

⭐️ Webinar: How To Write Powerful First Pages Like A Pro by author and editor Alayne Kay Christian

⭐️ A copy of Mary Kole’s Writing Irresistible Kidlit: The Ultimate Guide to Crafting Fiction for Young Adult and Middle Grade Writers, donated by Nicole Loos Miller

⭐️ A personalized signed copy of SASSAFRAS AND HER TEENY TINY TAIL (MacLaren-Cochrane Publishing 2021) by Candice Marley Conner

⭐️ Making Picture Book Magic Self Study Class (any month)

⭐️ Magnetic Poetry – Little Box of Happiness

Magnetic Poetry - Little Box of Happiness Kit - Words for Refrigerator - Write Poems and Letters on The Fridge - Made in The USA

Check out the Week 1 Stories!

Henry Needs A Holiday – Joyce Uglow

Hank Needs A Hug – Jen Subra

Hare Needs (To Take) A Hint – Candice Marley Conner

Hummingbird Needs A Holiday – Laura Bower

Hummingbird Needs A Hug – Ann Gray

Humphrey Hummingbird Needs A (New) Hobby – Clearywriter

Hedgehog Needs A Hobby – Erika

Hare Needs A Hug – Brenda Whitehead

Henry Hare Needs A Hat – Marty Bellis

Henry Needs A Hug – Isabel Cruz Rodriguez

Hermit Crab Needs A Home – Sarah Hawklyn

Henry Hedgehog – Michelle S. Kennedy

Henrietta’s New Home – Rose Cappelli

Hilary Needs A Hug – Sarah Meade

Hermy The Hermit Crab’s New Home – Susan E. Schipper

Helicopter Hummingbird – Linda Schueler

Untitled – Marta Magellan

Hilary The Hummingbird – Julie Kurtz

A Holiday For Mrs. Hare – Judy Sobanski

Alphonso’s Real Estate: Fashionable Homes For Hermit Crabs – Nicole Loos Miller

Hyena’s Hiccups – Marla Yablon

Hermit Crab Needs A Holiday – Carrines Clifton

Henry Hummingbird Needs A Home – Jennifer Reichow

Henry’s Discovery – Dawn Young

Henry Needs Some Luck – Allison Strick

Henry Needs A Holiday Hero – Ashley Sierra

Hoglet Hurry Home – Sally Yorke-Viney

A Hat For Hammerhead – Ashley B. Pedigo

Hallie Hummingbird Needs A Holiday – Christine Alemshah

Hudson Hammerhead Needs A Hug – Jeannette Suhr

Henry Needs A Hobby – Sue Lancaster

Hare And His Harmonica – Lyn Jekowsky

Horst Needs A Hug – Elizabeth Meyer Zu Heringdorf

Hummingbird Needs A Holiday – Sara Kruger

Hammerhead Needs A Hockey Stick – Les Degnan

Henry Needs A Hint – Deb Sullivan

Hare Needs A Hobby – Marta Cutler

Hare Needs A Holiday – Aly Kenna

Hilary Needs A Hint – Mia Geiger

Henry Needs A Hint – Elenore Byrne

Hare Style – Hannah Roy LaGrone

Hillary Hare Needs A Holiday – Barbara Farr Renner

Hammerhead Needs A Holiday – Dianne Irving

Hilary Needs A Harmonica – MWREX

Henry Needs A Hug – Val McCammon

Harry Hammerhead Has A Hard Day – Susan Summers

A Horse For Hermit Crab – Jill Lambert

A Home For Hedgehog – Elizabeth Volkmann

Hare Needs A Home – Jessica Murray

Hammerhead Needs Help – Katie Schwartz

Untitled – Lauri Meyers

Hedgehog Needs A Hat – Candace

Hedgehog Needs A Home – Summer Hinderer

Spiny The Hedgehog – Eva Kaman

Hopping Lonely – Jamie Bills

Henry Needs A Hint – Lauren Scott

Hare Needs A Hat – Jana Mattern

Hilary’s Holiday – Bevin Rolfs Spencer

Henry Hare’s New Hobby – Bru Benson

Hedgehog Hugs – Marty Findley

Hermit Crab Needs A Hat – Lynn Katz

Henry Hammerhead Needed A Hug – Padgy Soltis

Hedgehog Hates Hugs – TL Fales

Hammerhead Needs A Hat – Amy Leskowski

Mama Hedgehog’s Mother’s Day Holiday – Robin Currie

Henry Needs A Hero – Colleen Owen Murphy

Hugo Hammerhead Needs A Hat – Deb Buschman

Henry Hedgehog Needs A Home – Elizabeth Muster

Hedgehog Needs A Hint – Brenna Jeanneret

Hummingbird Needs A Holiday – JC Kelly

360 thoughts on “Here We Go Again! Mix ‘n’ Match Mini Writing Challenge Take 2!”

  2. Joyce Uglow says:
    Reply

    HENRY NEEDS A HOLIDAY by Joyce Uglow

    It’s your last chance see Henry Hummingbirds’ Nimble Flyer’s Stunt Show this season. Experience the Hummingbird Hover at Honeysuckle Theme Park. Defy fear with upside-down and backward feats of flight on the Hummingbird Flit-Flight. Increase your heart rate with Henry’s 61 mph dives! Get a virtual view of Henry’s tongue as it unrolls and wraps around drops of nectar. Use Henry’s one-man band of festive feathers to whistle in harmony. Be sure to visit the gift shop and get a pair of Henry’s Flight Goggles for your own backyard antics. Don’t delay… Henry’s passport is packed for his winter holiday.

  4. jensubra says:
    Reply

    HANK NEEDS A HUG by Jen Subra
    Hank Hedgehog was having a haaaard day. His mother had hurried off to the hair salon and hadn’t given Hank his morning hug. Hugs helped Hank handle the rest of the day better. How would he handle hiccups? Or hairy spiders? Or history lessons? Herb, his best friend, was no help. Hugs from Herb hurt! Hank thought about hugging himself, but that seemed hopeless. Half-heartedly Hank hopped on his bike. Honk! Honk! Mother, hair still in hot rollers, held out her arms, “Here, Hank! I have a hug for you! Have a happy day!” Hank smiled, sighed, and happily hugged his mother.

  5. Deborah Buschman says:
    Reply

    OHHH! I love this challenge. It really gets my juices flowing creatively. Thanks so much Susanna!

  6. candicemarleyconner says:
    Reply

    HARE NEEDS (TO TAKE) A HINT by Candice Marley Conner

    “Hare, it’s time for the race,” said Bee. “Tortoise is at the starting line.”
    “Pffft. I’m faster than a buzzy bee,” boasted Hare. “No one can outrun me!”
    “Yeah, but—”
    Bee stopped talking when Hare bounded off…
    …in the wrong direction.
    The flea on Hare’s shoulder said, “Hare, you’re going—”
    “Pffft. I’m faster than a jumping flea,” interrupted Hare. “No one can outrun me!” He flicked Flea off before Flea could say he was going the wrong way.
    Hare thought he could use a power nap so he settled under an oak.
    Oak reached down a bough to tap Hare on the nose.
    “Pffft. I’m way faster than a swaying tree,” murmured Hare. “No one can outrun me. Zzzzzzzzzz.”

  7. Laura Jensen Bower says:
    Reply

    Hummingbird Needs a Holiday By Laura Bower

    Flitsy’s wings were always flapping –
    working hard, no time for napping!
    Sipping, licking sticky nectar
    Fast and fierce sucrose collector.
    Flitsy saw the wrens relaxing
    while she worked. “This sure is taxing!
    What I need is a vacation.”
    Flitsy found the nearest station –
    hopped aboard an outbound train
    headed toward the coast of Maine.
    First-class Flitsy – on her way!
    a week of fun, and rest and play.
    Slowing heartbeat, kicked up feet –
    recharging trips could not be beat.
    No more stress. Bye, bye frustration!
    Just in time for her migration!

  8. Ann Gray says:
    Reply

    Hummingbird needs a hug
    Everyday Ruby the hummingbird quickly buzzed from flower to flower to flower. She was faster than the the butterflies, faster than the ladybugs, and faster than the yummy mosquitoes. If any other birds came close to her flowers she quickly chased them away. She went as fast as she could all day long. But when night came the flowers closed and the butterflies and the mosquitoes went to sleep. Then , Ruby buzzed to her fuzzy little home. She slowly said hello to her little hummingbird babies and gave them a long, slow hummingbird hug.

  9. clearywriter says:
    Reply

    Humphrey Hummingbird Needs a (New) Hobby

    Humphrey Hummingbird habitually hummed a hymn while hovering high in the hydrangeas or hastily hurrying through the hollyhocks.

    His humdrum humming haunted the habitat.

    “Halt, Humphrey!” they hollered. “Your humming is hurting our hearing! You need a new hobby, dear Humphrey,” they howled. “How about hockey? Hang gliding? Hula Hooping?”

    “Hardly,” Humphrey heartily harrumphed. “My hobby must hinge on harmony!”

    “How about the harmonium?”

    “Huh?” said Humphrey.

    “A harp?”

    “Hazardous!”

    “Hurdy Gurdy?”

    “Hilarious!”

    “Harpsichord?”

    “Heavy!”

    “Hmm…”

    “A-ha!” Humphrey hooted, “I have my new hobby!” He hauled out his harmonica, huffed high and harsh, the very same humdrum hymn.

    “Oh, horror!”

  10. Erika says:
    Reply

    Hedgehog Needs a Hobby

    Hedgehog knew he needed to find a new hobby now that his hibernation was over.

    “What are my options?”

    Hedgehog looked around his den and noticed two spines on the ground.

    “Hmm, recycling is a good start!”

    He picked up the spines and found some yarn under his bed.

    After ten minutes, Hedgehog decided knitting was not the best hobby for him.

    “What next?”

    Seeing an old bowl of berries, he decided to try painting.

    But after fifteen minutes, Hedgehog realized the berry juice was too hard to see in the dirt.

    “Will I ever find a hobby?”

    Suddenly, someone knocked on his door. Opossum had decided to visit!

    With his friend here, Hedgehog knew exactly what to do.

    “Hey, Opossum, want to be my fencing partner?”

  12. brendawprof says:
    Reply

    Ooh, thanks so much for running this little inspirational challenge again, Susanna! Here’s my Week 1 Mini Story. 🙂

    HARE NEEDS A HUG
    by Brenda Whitehead (104 words)

    “Hare needs a hug, Mare,” said Bear.
    “Hare needs a RUG?? Take the blanket off my back!”

    “No. Hare needs a HUG, Mare,” said Bear.
    “Hare needs a MUG?? Take my 1st-place trophy cup!”

    “NO. Hare needs a HUG, Mare” said Bear.
    “Hare needs a TUG?? Take my reins and I’ll pull!”

    “NO! Hare needs a HUG, Mare,” said Bear.
    “Hare needs a BUG?? Take one off my rear!”

    “NO, Mare. Hug. HUG.” said Bear, giving Mare a bear hug.
    “OH, Hare needs a HUG?? Take me to my friend!”

    Hare got a hug!
    But Mare needs hearing aids…
    And Bear needs a nap!

  13. marty says:
    Reply

    Hooray for another year of Mix n Match! It’s the BEST! So much fun. Thanks, Susanna 🙂

    HENRY HARE NEEDS A HAT
    by Marty Bellis (98 words)

    Henry hare needed a hat for the holidays. But his ears were problematic. Nothing fit.
    He hunted high. Hoot owl’s extra hat hugged his head tightly. OUCH!
    He hunted low. Hippo’s extra hat hung to his toes.
    Henry huddled in his hole for a hot drink and a think.
    Toasting his toes by the fire he had a hare-brained idea.
    His stockings, placed by the chimney with care, fit perfectly and gave his ears that festive touch he was looking for.
    Santa wouldn’t mind!
    And now, Henry could wish his friends a happy holiday — in style!

  15. Susanna Leonard Hill says:
    Reply

    POSTED FOR ISABEL

    HENRY NEEDS A HUG
    by Isabel Cruz Rodriguez

    Henry jumped out of bed.

    He ran down the staircase,
    skipped the last step
    and fell!

    “Come Henry,” his Mommy said, “a hug will help heal your boo-boo.”
    “Thank you Mommy. I love you!”

    Henry jumped on his tricycle.
    He sped down the driveway
    turned and fell!

    “Come here, Henry,” his Mommy said, “a hug will help heal your boo-boo.”
    “Thank you Mommy. I love you!”

    Henry ran in the house.
    He tugged on Mommy’s dress.

    “Oh, Henry. Another boo-boo?”
    “No Mommy. I just need another hug.”

    “I love you Henry.”
    “I love you, Mommy.”
    “Let’s hug!” they both said.

  16. Grinny Butler says:
    Reply

    Hermit Crab needs a Home

    HC knew it was time for a new home. His once lovely shell home pinched dreadfully.
    He was surprised to find out there were so many options.
    Spotted? Too small
    Striped? Too drafty.
    Pink rainbows? No definitely not him.
    Now he began to think he wouldn’t find anything he liked.
    He searched under the large rocks.
    Through the towering kelp beds.
    Finally, he found an amazing collection of modern selections.
    Blue teapot? Too round.
    Rubber boot? Too squishy.
    And then, there it was, the perfect new home.
    Shiny, boxy and fit him just right.
    A tin can home.

  17. creegauthor says:
    Reply

    Yay, for Mix-n-Match! 🙂

    HUMMINGBIRD NEEDS A HAT

    Rufus the Hummingbird needed a hat.

    A hat to keep the sun out his eyes.
    A hat to protect him from the fat, spring rain drops.
    A hat to help him stand out from all the other hummingbirds who looked just like Rufus.

    He tried a red ballcap—too big.
    He tried a dogwood leaf—too fragile.
    He tried a brown mushroom cap—too, too mushy.

    Rufus was sad and tired and ready to give up…
    But then he spied a dollhouse,
    with a doll just his size,
    wearing a hat just his size.

    With a buzz of his feathers, he flipped the hat onto his head.
    Perfect!

  18. Michelle S. Kennedy (@MichelleSKenned) says:
    Reply

    I LOVE your contests, Susanna! They are always so much fun and really help me create something new during my “dry” writing spells.

    Here is my poem for WEEK 1 (May 10)

    HENRY HEDGEHOG NEEDS A HUG! (WC 101)
    Using the words: Hedgehog, Hug, Help, Henry, Mother’s Day (WC 101)
    By Michelle S. Kennedy

    Henry Hedgehog needs some HELP—
    but he’s too proud to make a yelp.
    He wants to make a grand bouquet
    to give his mom on Mother’s Day.
    Collecting flowers should be fun…
    He’s tried so hard but gathered none.
    A rosebush thorn caught in his thumb.
    Another one’s stuck in his bum!
    “Forget Me Nots have made him sneeze.
    The Hollyhocks all made him wheeze.
    The Dandelions wilted fast.
    Carnations were supposed to last—
    until poor Henry had a fall.
    He tripped. They flew. A free-for-all!
    And so, poor Henry with a shrug,
    just gave his mom a great big hug.

  20. rosecappelli says:
    Reply

    Thanks for doing this again, Susanna! I always have such fun with your contests.

    Henrietta’s New Home
    Henrietta’s home was cramped, cracked, and drab. But today there was buzz on the beach. A large shell washed up overnight, so the crabs gathered to switch. Henrietta took her place in the line-up. The shell before her glistened, as smooth as a pearl.
    Magnificent!
    Henrietta was about to wriggle in when…
    Bump! Hildy butted in line.
    “No fair!” cried Henrietta.
    “But I’m bigger!” said Hildy.
    Henrietta climbed into Hildy’s old, dull shell, then hid her disappointment among the anemones. They draped her in pink and green until Henrietta glimmered.
    “How about a ride?” she said to her new friends.

  21. Sarah Meade says:
    Reply

    HILARY NEEDS A HUG
    (98 words)
    By Sarah Meade

    Hello, Hilary!
    Hi, Grandma!
    *Squeeze*
    Wow, what a BIG hug, Hilary!
    Grandma, did you know hugs make people happy?
    Well, your hugs always make ME happy, Hilary.
    *Squeeze*
    It’s because hugging increases oxytocin and serotonin.
    Goodness! Those are big words.
    Hugging makes pain go away and decreases stress.
    That’s wonderful, Hilary.
    *Squeeze*
    People need eight hugs a day to feel good.
    You’ve learned a lot about hugs!
    And hugging for at least twenty seconds is the way to go!
    Hilary, I think I need another hug.
    Me too, Grandma. At least five more!
    *Squeeze*

  22. seschipper says:
    Reply

    Hermy The Hermit Crab’s New Home

    By Susan E. Schipper

    Hermit crabs are anomuran decapod crustaceans of the superfamily Paguroidea that have adapted to occupy empty scavenged mollusc shells to protect their fragile exoskeletons.

    Hey, wait a minute, I‘m talking about myself! That’s me, Hermy the Hermit Crab! I just wanted to tell you about my new home and I became all scientific! Gee-whiz!

    It’s time to go house hunting because I think I’m outgrowing my humble abode. My pretty pink conch shell is a little snug. I crawled out of it. Hannah Hammerhead, my best friend, was helping me search for the perfect shell. We searched high and low and all around the ocean floor. I needed to find my new home fast! Suddenly, Hannah and I saw it!!! The perfect pink palace! It smelled superb, looked comfy and cozy and had a “sense of familiarity” about it! Carefully, I stuffed myself into it! Yep, this one is it…home sweet home!!!

  23. Linda Schueler says:
    Reply

    Helicopter Hummingbird

    Hummingbird loved helicopters, and she could hover like one, but she also wanted to be as loud as one. She practiced late at night, until she got it right.
    “What do I sound like?” asked Hummingbird, chuff chuffing around Sparrow.
    “You sound like a hummingbird,” said Sparrow.
    “I’ll give you a hint,” Hummingbird said, chop chopping over Sparrow.
    “G…g…gulls!” Sparrow squeaked, fleeing into a bush.
    “No silly, I’m a helicopter. See how loud I am…” 
    “So loud you’ve attracted the gulls!”
    Hummingbird darted and dodged and hum hummed away from the gulls. “I guess being quiet is okay.”

  24. Susanna Leonard Hill says:
    Reply

    POSTED FOR MARTA

    Hyacinth Hummingbird was bored. “Day after day, all I do is sip nectar and chase flies,” he said to Hagerty O’Possum. “You need to help yourself to a hobby,” said Hagerty. “I will tell Hooded Hummingbird to call on you.” The next day, Hooded hovered in Hyacinth’s habitat. As you know, hummingbirds do not share. “This is my territory!” Hyacinth pointed his bill like a dagger. He attacked, but the intruder fought back. Too tired to keep fighting, they rested on a branch. “Shall we say we schedule a fight every Tuesday?” They shook wings and Hyacinth had a hobby.

    Marta Magellanwww.martamagellan.com

  25. Julie Kurtz says:
    Reply

    Hilary the Hummingird
    “Help,” cried Hilary the hummingbird. “I need to get home before Mother’s Day is over.”
    “I’ve lost the way! I need a hint from someone to show me the right direction.
    Can you help me Harvey the Hare?”
    “So sorry! I don’t know where you live. I have seen you everywhere! Maybe Hilda the Hedgehog can help.”
    “Hilda, do you know which way I should go?”
    “Well, I think you should go over the hill near the farmhouse. There’s a bright, red birdfeeder there!”
    “Who is that I see up ahead?My mom ready for her holiday hug! Hooray!”
    Julie Kurtz

  26. Judy Sobanski says:
    Reply

    Thank you for doing Mix ‘n’ Match, Susanna! 🙂

    A HOLIDAY FOR MRS. HARE
    Judy Sobanski

    Mrs. Hare had nine babies. All she heard all day was “Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom.” She needed a holiday! Mr. Hare agreed to take care of the littles. Off Mrs. Hare went to the beach. She set up her chair, her umbrella, and got out her favorite magazine, Ladies Hare Journal. Soon a mother sea gull and three baby nestlings walked down the beach. Awww, thought Mrs. Hare. She felt a little tug in her heart. Then a mother crab and her babies scavenged for food along the shore. Mrs. Hare felt a bigger tug. When she spotted a mama dolphin and her calves frolicking in the water, her heart actually ached. Suddenly, she heard, “Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, Mom, we missed you!” Now her holiday could begin!

  27. Nicole Loos Miller says:
    Reply

    ALPHONSO’S REAL ESTATE: FASHIONABLE HOMES FOR HERMIT CRABS
    (As dictated to Nicole Loos Miller – 60 words)
    Tired of boring shells with swirls, polka dots, or bioluminescent barnacles?
    Your home should reflect your unique personality and Alphonso can help you find the perfect fit.
    Inkwells for poets and writers, teacups for a cozier feel, or try our vintage collection: old soda bottles, skulls, even fossils.
    Let Alphonso transform you from hermit crab to fashion icon. Call now!

  28. Judy Sobanski says:
    Reply

    “Bioluminescent barnacles”! Such fun language in your clever story! Alphonso can really put a spin on just about anything to make it sound appealing!

  29. Marla Yablon says:
    Reply

    Hyena’s Hiccups
    Hyena needed help! He had the hiccups, and he didn’t have a clue what to do. “Try holding your breath,” said Honey badger. “I’ve heard that works.” It didn’t.
    “Try drinking water,” suggested Hippo. “I live in the water, and I’ve never had hiccups.” Hyena went down to the river to take a drink. Suddenly Crocodile lunged out of the water straight towards him!
    “Why did you do that!” yelled Hyena. “You scared me half to death! Hey, I don’t have hiccups any more. Thank you, Crocodile!”
    “It’s supposed to,” grinned Crocodile, “but I usually get lunch for my trouble.”

  30. cc95189 says:
    Reply

    Hermit Crab Needs A Holiday
    Carrines Clifton

    The ongoing Coronavirus has Hermit Crab very sad and lonely. “Oh, dear, I miss my friends. I want to go back to school and play, but it’s close for now.” “What should I do?” “I’m so bored,” he exclaimed. “I know! I’ll go to the beach. I deserve a holiday.” “Wouldn’t you say?” “There should be lots of crabs to meet and sand on my feet!” “Oh boy, not feet, crabs don’t have feet, silly me!” “What do you think?” “That’s right; crabs have several legs; I’ll crawl on my legs and make this holiday fun and play.”

  31. Jennifer Reichow says:
    Reply

    Henny Hummingbird Needs a Home by Jennifer Reichow

    Henny Hummingbird flitted furiously, searching for the perfect spot for her nest. It must be safe from the wind and the sun and the rain. Henny hunted for bits of soft fluff and fur. Her nest must be cozy and warm. She tied everything together with spider silk. Her nest must be strong. Soon Henny could rest, keeping her eggs safe until they hatched. Then she would be busy feeding her babies and teaching them to fly. When the chicks grew up, they would all leave the nest until next year when Henny would need a home again.

  32. Susanna Leonard Hill says:
    Reply

    POSTED FOR DAWN

    #1 Henry / hobby 96 words

    HENRY’S DISCOVERY by Dawn Young

    “Mom, I need a hobby!” said Henry. Mom smiled. Henry ran outside plopped down under a tree and began to daydream. I collect toy cars, baseball-cards, and coins. I like to draw birds, rabbits, and horses. I am a good builder. I build spaceships, robots, and sky-scrapers. I am always singing in the shower. I don’t need a hobby! I know what I need … Henry raced into the kitchen, “Hey Mom, I don’t need a hobby! I need a brother to share them with!” Mom rolled her eyes and said, “Go tell your Dad!”

  33. byallisonstrick says:
    Reply

    Henry Needs Some Luck
    Allison Strick
    91 Words

    The hockey game is underway.
    The score is two to three.
    Henry’s time is running out.
    He says, “It’s up to me!”

    Henry grips his battered stick
    and prances with the puck.
    In the stands are screaming fans.
    Now all he needs is luck.

    He’s tough as nails, he won’t back down.
    The shot must be precise.
    With gritted teeth and eagle eyes
    he charges down the ice.

    The puck is free! Where will it stop?
    The goalie’s looking….
    smug.
    His team has lost, and tough-guy Henry
    really needs a hug.

  34. Ashley Sierra (@AshleySierra06) says:
    Reply

    HENRY NEEDS A HOLIDAY HERO

    Henry plopped his head on the table. Tonight was his holiday party and everything was a disaster. 

    Then an ad in the newspaper caught his eye. 

    HOLIDAY HELPER HOTLINE

    Henry called. RING . . . 

    “Thank you for calling the Holiday Helper Hotline. This is Holly. How may I help you?”

    “My cookies crumbled. My tinsel tumbled. And one light bulb went out and I don’t have any extras,” Henry cried.

    Holly hopped right over and helped Henry . . . bake a new batch of cookies, tilt the tinsel just right, and replace the bulb with her Emergency Bulb Kit.

    “Thank you, Holly!” Henry said. 

    “I’m happy to help!” she shouted, whooshing off to her next case.

    That night, Henry had the most rockin’ holiday party.

  35. Susanna Leonard Hill says:
    Reply

    POSTED FOR SALLY

    Hoglet Hurry Home
    By Sally Yorke-Viney

    Hoglet Hurry Home!
    You’ve wandered off too far!
    Your chasing snails and beetle bugs
    And looking at the stars.

    Hoglet hurry home!
    I know you’re feeling brave,
    You’ve spied a silver slimy trail,
    It’s snails and slugs you crave.

    Hoglet hurry home!
    You’re only five weeks old!
    You toddled cross the yard and road.
    You’re feeling way too bold!

    Hoglet hurry home!
    He looked up and he found,
    He’d lost his way, his home, the smell
    Was absent from the ground.

    Hoglet hurry home!
    Twitter, whistle too!
    Hoglet’s family leads him home,
    It’s just what Hedgehogs do!

  36. ashleybpedigo says:
    Reply

    A Hat for Hammerhead

    Hammerhead shark was swimming
    Throw the warm and wavy sea
    He told his friend the blowfish,
    “I’m as sad as sad can be!”

    For it was hammerhead’s birthday
    A happy day, except that
    He didn’t want to celebrate
    Without a birthday hat.

    He looked at all the sailor caps
    That had fallen in the sea
    They were round, and his head square,
    “There’s no way these hats fit me!”

    But then his friend the blowfish,
    Hit by inspiration’s spark,
    Said, “Instead of hats for human heads,
    Let’s make some fit for sharks!”

    They fashioned bits of coral
    And a few anemones
    A sea horse and some shipwrecked parts
    Into birthday crowns fit for kings.

    The word got out about their hats
    Made from all those different parts
    And now the sea is full of
    Hatted hammerheaded sharks.

  37. sunflowerscribe says:
    Reply

    Hallie Hummingbird Needs a Holiday

    By

    Christine Alemshah
    [WC: 75]

    Flitting and floating and buzzing about.
    No time to fret, no time to pout.

    Hallie Hummingbird’s wings flap frantically.
    Finding food, sipping nectar, migrating to and fro.

    At night, creatures all around exhale, cuddle in close,
    And slowly,
    ever,
    slowly,
    settle down.

    Hallie longs to settle, too.
    Deep breath in, Deep breath out
    Land on the perfect perch.
    Wings flapping, flapping,
    flap — flap — slow
    And Stop!
    Flip upside down, and
    Sleep.

  38. Jeannette Suhr says:
    Reply

    Hudson Hammerhead Needs a Hug
    by Jeannette Suhr

    My hammerhead shark was not into hugs,
    as much as I offered my outstretched arms.
    Hudson was shy and solitary
    and preferred ocean floor life.
    He took me for rides and our sea horse pals
    wrapped their tails tightly around his fins.
    His great field of view helped us avoid sharp coral cuts
    and jungle kelp tangles.
    Hudson gave me flashy smiles with his 17 rows of teeth.
    He let me pet him and splashed me in return.
    So instead of hugs, Hudson gave me gentle hammer punches
    and I gave him fist bumps back.

  39. Sue Lancaster says:
    Reply

    HENRY NEEDS A HOBBY
    By Sue Lancaster

    Henry the leopard
    Was feeling quite sad.
    “I’d like a fun hobby,”
    He said to his dad.

    “I’ve something in mind,
    Do you think there’s a chance,
    That you would agree to me…
    Taking up dance?”

    “DANCE?!!” roared his father,
    Us leopards, we RUN!
    STALKING and HUNTING,
    That’s how we have fun.

    And if you are bored,
    Try counting your spots,
    Or join them all up
    Like they’re big dot-to-dots.”

    Henry slunk off,
    He headed to town,
    The thought of THOSE hobbies,
    Was getting him down.

    He walked past the sports shop,
    And to his surprise,
    Something SPECTACULAR
    Captured his eyes…

    A leopard-shaped leotard!
    Sequined and bright!
    He tried it straight on,
    And it felt OH-SO right.

    “I’ll take it,” said Henry.
    “I’ve saved up all year.
    These stripes are FANTASTIC,
    They bring me such cheer!

    I’ll ZUMBA with Zebra,
    GYRATE with Giraffe,
    Do CHA-CHA with Cheetah,
    We’ll have such a laugh!”

    When Henry got home,
    His dad was NOT pleased,
    But Henry’s huge smile,
    Helped his anger ease.

    “I know,” Henry said,
    “This is not what we DO.
    But who makes the rules?
    Who says that is true?
    Keep running and hunting, Dad
    Do dot-to-dots,
    But don’t ever think,
    Leopards can’t change their spots!”

  40. lynjekowsky says:
    Reply

    Hare and His Harmonic by Lyn Jekowsky

    Hilarious Hare plays
    a wailing harmonica.
    A Hat-wearing band member,
    country and blues player.

    Happy Hare plays vibrato,
    his favorite trick.
    Forest friends rejoice,
    party, dance jigs.

    At the spring-time ball
    Hare’s booked to perform.
    No instrument to play,
    Hare’s harmonica, gone!

    He asks his friend owl,
    the wisest of birds,
    if he’s seen a Harmonica.
    He hasn’t, HOOT.

    Hare hops to the pond,
    asks frog if he’s seen it.
    No harmonica here.
    Keep searching, CROAK.

    Hare tips his hat to a wide-eyed doe
    CLUNK on the floor, Harmonica found!
    Reunited,
    Hare and Harmonica swing.

  42. Elizabeth Meyer Zu Heringdorf says:
    Reply

    Horst Needs a Hug

    Horst the Hedgehog needed some pocket money.
    So he put up a sign: “Hugs One Dollar.”
    “I’m scared of the spines!” said a horse.
    So Loren put on a jacket.
    “Those beady eyes mean trouble,” said a mouse.
    So Loren put on sunglasses.
    “He looks like a gangster!” said a sheep.
    Loren threw everything off, kicked away the sign and curled into a ball.
    “Oh the poor hedgehog!” cried a little girl and threw her arms around him.
    Sometimes you don’t get what you want, but you get what you need.

  43. savoringeverymoment says:
    Reply

    HUMMINGBIRD NEEDS A HOLIDAY
    by Sara Kruger

    Hummingbird flitted around the flowers, polishing his harmonica between performances. The garden serenade circuit had been particularly grueling this summer, and he needed a holiday.

    One more party and he’d be off to the Feeder Islands, where the nectar was especially sweet and flowed like honey.

    He flew to the sunflower patch. No one was there, but he heard crickets, so he followed their buzzing, swished between raspberry bushes, and…

    “Surprise!” all the garden creatures cheered, holding goblets of golden liquid.

    “The party is for you,” Dragonfly explained, “to thank you before you leave.”

    Hummingbird sipped the sweetness, mixed and mingled, and then flew off, heart full.

  44. Leslie Ross-Degnan says:
    Reply

    HAMMERHEAD NEEDS A HOCKEY STICK
    by Les Degnan

    The outlook wasn’t sunny,
    Down Shipwreck Harbor way.
    Hammerhead was worried,
    As game time ticked away.

    His hockey stick was cracking.
    It wouldn’t last the match.
    He had to find another,
    Or call for a rematch.

    Pucks were easy pickin’s.
    Any clam would do.
    Hockey sticks were rare indeed,
    Far between and few.

    Gliding ‘round the shipwreck,
    Round and round he swam.
    And crashed into the ancient mast,
    It hit him hard, WHAM-BAM!

    He shook his head to clear it,
    As shards of mast rained down.
    And spied a long straight piece of wood
    Best hockey stick in the town!

  45. Deborah Agranat Sullivan says:
    Reply

    Henry Needs A Hint (96 words)

    “Bye Ma!” said Henry, bounding out the door.
    “Brrr…”
    It was colder than it looked.
    “Have a great….” Mom began. “Wait!”
    Henry continued full speed down the driveway.
    “You forgot something,” she hollered.
    “Huh?” said Henry.
    He checked his bag.
    Snack. Markers. Superhero Dave.
    “Did we forget something?” Henry asked his action hero friend.
    “It’s pretty basic,” Mom said.
    “I brushed!” Henry replied.
    “Rhymes with dance,” she said.
    “A playdate with Lance?”said Henry.
    Mom shook her head.
    The bus pulled up.
    Henry looked down.
    All the kids howled.
    Henry didn’t stand a chance…
    without pants.

  46. Marta Cutler says:
    Reply

    HARE NEEDS A HOBBY

    “I’m bored,” said littlest Hare.
    “You need a hobby”, said Mama.
    “Can I pick one in the garden?” asked Hare.
    “It’s not there,” said Mama.
    “Can I catch one in the brook?” asked Hare.
    “It’s not there,” said Mama.
    “Can I borrow one from Papa?” asked Hare.
    “You have to find your own,” said Mama.
    “Where?” asked Hare.
    Mama touched his heart.
    “Here,” she said. “It’s something you do that makes you happy!”
    Hare twitched his nose in thought.
    “Then my hobby is being with you!” he said.
    “I love you littlest Hare,” said Mama.
    And she hugged him tight.

  47. Susanna Leonard Hill says:
    Reply

    POSTED FOR ALY

    Hare needs a Holiday
    Aly Kenna

    Hare’s stomach grumbled.
    How long would she have to stay in bed.
    Another CRASH BAM BOM came from the kitchen.
    The smell of burnt toast tickled her nose.
    The sun was now high in the sky, she smiled.
    Breakfast would not be far off now.
    FLOP SIZZLE PLOP
    Hare inched further under covers.
    At last, the pitter patter of tiny footsteps.
    Not a moment too soon.
    “Happy Mothers Day!”
    Black toast, burnt carrots and a fresh sprig of heather.
    Her heart swelled, “Best breakfast ever!”
    But the kitchen?
    Well, what Hare really needed – was a holiday.

    96 words

  48. Susanna Leonard Hill says:
    Reply

    POSTED FOR MIA

    Hilary Needs A Hint
    By Mia Geiger
    89 words

    Ribbons and glitter and more!
    Paper with sparkles galore!
    What will I find if I peek?
    But looking will make me a sneak!

    Mom says I really must wait.
    Today she is coming home late …
    Birthdays mean presents and fun,
    but I need a small hint—just one.

    Shake-ity, shake-ity, shake.
    Soft like some angel food cake?
    NOW is my very best chance
    so I’ll sneak a wee little glance . . .

    Corners are good spots to start,
    carefully prying apart.
    Can’t stop! . . . I open the box.
    Wowie! Pink unicorn socks!

  49. elenorebyrne says:
    Reply

    Hi Susanna, thanks for this comp opportunity. Here’s a last minute entry, as we’ve just finished our school holidays in Switzerland. I look forward to the weekly prompts. Elenore.

    Henry needs a Hint
    Elenore Byrne
    Word count 108
    Using Henry, Hint and Mother’s Day

    Mother’s Day was hours away and Henry could not find,
    the perfect present for his mom, a special ‘one-off’ kind.

    He asked his dad who said sometimes his mom left hints about,
    but warned him that they could be hard to find and figure out.

    While pondering the things Mom liked, a bug with lots of feet,
    crawled upon his arm and Mom said, “Wow that bug is sweet.”

    Henry keenly grabbed the hint, he knew just what he’d need.
    Branches, dirt, and greenery – to house a centipede!

    When his mother saw her ‘Pet’ she could not even speak.
    Without a doubt, Henry had found – a gift that was unique!

  50. Hannah Roy LaGrone says:
    Reply

    HARE STYLE (prompt: Hare needs a new hobby)
    by Hannah Roy LaGrone

    Hawkins tried on aviators,
    skate-shoes on his feet.
    With a leather jacket,
    his Hare-style was complete!

    He hoped to sell out huge arenas,
    touring near and far.
    So his last accessory?
    A shiny red guitar.

    He went onstage in Nashville…
    “Hey! Why is no one here?
    My rockstar look’s so stylish!”
    The band thought it was clear…

    “You spent hours on your outfit,
    But minutes on your song;
    Your guitar is out of tune,
    And your rhythm is all wrong!”

    “Practicing is boring!”
    he sighed and shook his head.
    “I need a different hobby…
    I could always act instead!”

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