Hi Everyone! I’m so sorry, but there is absolutely no chance I’m going to have finalists Friday morning as I originally posted. I’m not even sure when to say I will have them, though I’ll get them up as soon as I can. It will not be over this weekend, I’m sure of that. Thank you all for your patience. I’m so sorry for the delay!
[For those trying to post, you must click on the Blog Post Title to get on the blog post page and access the comments]
Roses are red
Violets are blue
Valentinies rock
And so do YOU!
Whether your characters are filled with pride and joy, puffed up with pride, or in danger of pride going before a fall, the time has come for . . .
The 7th Annual 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 proud! They can be proud in a good way or a bad way. They can be proud of themselves for asking someone to be their Valentine, or they can be proud of how they asked. They can be proud of a Valentine they make, or a Valentine celebration they plan. They can be proud of giving something up, or proud of asking someone they’re not sure about for some reason in order to be nice. They can be proud of their performance in a Valentines Day play or concert or parade. . . sky’s the limit! Just make sure it is clearly Valentine-centered! Think beyond the obvious! 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 proud (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 in the comment section below between right now this very second and Sunday February 13th by 11:59 PM EDT. There will be no regularly scheduled posts for the duration of the contest (Tuesday Debut, Would You Read It, or PPBF), so the post and all of your entries will stay up for everyone to enjoy. If you have difficulty with the comments, which unfortunately sometimes happens, you may email your entry to me and I’ll post it for you. [Also, a small note: I have a serious family situation at the moment. I didn’t want to cancel the contest at the last minute, but please be patient with me if it takes me a while to post emailed entries and update the link list etc. I will do my best, but apologies in advance for delays.]
The Judging: my lovely assistants and I will narrow down the entrants to 6-12 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 Friday February 18th (or possibly a day or two later if the judges need extra time.) The winner will be announced Monday February 21st 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 pride, and success in making us feel the pride (whether it’s good pride or bad)!
- Valentine’s Day appropriateness – this is a VALENTINE story and Valentine’s Day must be central to it!
- 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, PROOFREADING!
- Originality – surprise us with something new and different! 😊
- How well you followed the Submission Guidelines – agents and editors expect professionalism. This is a chance to practice making sure you read and follow specified guidelines.
The Prizes: As always, we are so fortunate to have an abundance of wonderful prizes donated by our very generous friends in the kidlit community! Just look at all these goodies!
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Read & Critique from agent Mary Cummings of Great River Literary, “an agency devoted exclusively to representing authors and author/illustrators of books for children and teens. Strong relationships with editors have resulted in a rapidly growing list of sales of board and picture books, chapter books and novels to such publishing houses as Knopf; Philomel; Viking; Nancy Paulsen/Penguin; Balzer & Bray; Walker; Little, Brown; Henry Holt; Holiday House; Feiwel & Friends; FSG; Running Press; WorthyKids; Abrams; Random House; Wiseman S & S; Chronicle; Candlewick; HarperCollins and many others.”
⭐️ 1/2 Hour Zoom Picture Book Manuscript Critique or Mentoring Session with author Lynne Marie!
Lynne Marie is the accomplished author of Hedgehog Goes to Kindergarten – art by Anne Kennedy (Scholastic 2011), Hedgehog’s 100th Day of School – art by Lorna Hussey (Scholastic 2017), The Star of the Christmas Play — art by Lorna Hussey (Beaming Books 2018), Moldilocks and the 3 Scares — art by David Rodriguez Lorenzo (Sterling 2019 and Scholastic 2019), Let’s Eat! Mealtime Around the World — art by Parwinder Singh (Beaming Books 2019) and The Three Little Pigs And The Rocket Project — art by Wendy Fedan (Mac and Cheese Press 2022) and American Pie — art by Dea Lenihan (Dancing Flamingo Press, April 12, 2022)
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Penny Parker Klostermann, 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 Zoom Ask Me Anything with Keila Dawson, author of THE KING CAKE BABY (Pelican Publishing 2016), NO VOICE TOO SMALL (Charlesbridge 2020), and OPENING THE ROAD: VICTOR HUGO GREEN AND HIS GREEN BOOK (Beaming Books, 2021)
⭐️ Access to author/editor Alayne Kay Christian‘s webinars! Alayne is the author of BUTTERFLY KISSES FOR GRANDMA AND GRANDPA (Blue Whale Press, 2008), SIENNA THE COWGIRL FAIRY: COWBOY TROUBLE (Blue Whale Press 2021), THE WEED THAT WOKE CHRISTMAS (Blue Whale Press, 2020), and AN OLD MAN AND HIS PENGUIN (Blue Whale Press, 2020)
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique (fiction) from Melissa Stoller, author of SCARLET’S MAGIC PAINTBRUSH (Spork 2018), READY, SET, GORILLA! (Spork 2018), THE ENCHANTED SNOW GLOBE COLLECTION (chapter books) (Spork 2017), SADIE’S SHABAT STORIES (Spork, 2020) and PLANTING FRIENDSHIP: PEACE, SALAAM, SHALOM
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Rebecca Gardyn Levington author of BRAINSTORM! (Sleeping Bear Press, Summer 2022), I WILL ALWAYS BE…(HarperCollins, Spring 2024) and a contributor to the delightful anthology HOP TO IT: POEMS TO GET YOU MOVING (Pomelo Books, October 2020)
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique (nonrhyming) from Rebecca Kraft Rector, author of SQUISH SQUASH SQUISHED (Nancy Paulsen Books, Penguin Random House, 2021), LITTLE RED AND THE BIG BAD EDITOR (Aladdin, September 2022), and TRIA AND THE GREAT STAR RESCUE (Delacorte/Random House)
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique and Query Letter Critique from Jessica Stremer author of the forthcoming GREAT CARRIER REEF (Holiday House, 2023)
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Cathy Ballou Mealey author of WHEN A TREE GROWS (Union Square Kids, 2019), SLOTH AND SQUIRREL IN A PICKLE (Kids Can Press, 2021), and the forthcoming MAKE MORE S’MORES (Sleeping Bear Press, 2023)
⭐️ Personalized Signed Copy of THE KING CAKE BABY by Keila Dawson
⭐️ Personalized Signed Copy of PLANTING FRIENDSHIP: PEACE, SALAAM, SHALOM by Melissa Berger Stoller
⭐️ Personalized Signed Copy of IT’S A MUFFULETTA! IT’S A WHATA? (Sprok 2021) by Patricia Saunders
Please join me in thanking these very generous authors and other writing professionals for contributing their books and writing expertise as prizes by visiting their websites and blogs, considering their books and services for birthday, holiday or other gift purchases, rating and/or reviewing their books on GoodReads, Amazon, B&N, or anywhere else if you like them, recommending them for school and library visits, and supporting them in any other way you can dream up! 😊
Now! Put your heart into it and proudly post your entries!
I can’t wait to read your stories!!!
Eager Readers: Check out the comment section for all the fabulous entries! 😊
ENTRIES (all entries are linked) [will be linked tomorrow – sorry for delay]
- The Perfect Present – Sara Kruger
- Dr. Basil Discovers His Secret Admirer – Royal Baysinger
- Teeny Houdini – Heather Ferranti Kinser
- How To Win At Wordle – Anne Lipton
- Eva Valentina’s Day – Katie Fischer
- Chick Forgot Valentine’s Day – Jess Burbank
- The Make-A-Valentine Contest – Hanna Geshelin
- Never Too Many Valentines – Lori C. Evans
- Proud As A Peacock – Bru Benson
- Valentine Farm – Jennifer Lowe
- Gary Groundhog Conquers The Shadow Monster – Deborah Foster
- Tucker And The Sneezies – Susan E. Schipper
- When Dad Is Away – Aileen Stewart
- It’s Valentine’s Day, Thomas, The Worm – Maria Lahman
- The House On The Corner – Elyse Trevers
- Staying In The Lines – Elizabeth Meyer zu Heringdorf
- Top Of The World – Christine Alemshah
- The Canape Caper – Cathy Stenquist
- My Icky Sticky Valentine – Chayala Nachum
- The Best Card Maker – Stephanie Maksymiw
- Dad Gets Weird On Valentine’s Day – Debbie Day
- The Valentine Tiff – Sally Yorke-Viney
- Glitter & Glue – Janna MacLean
- Heart Aflutter – Kelly Clasen
- Little Things – Molly Ippolito
- Veronica’s Surprise – Janel Caverly
- My Quiet Valentine – Amanda Sherlock
- Who’s Ana? – Ellie Langford
- Prince Of The Pride – Jessica Seitz
- Cupid’s Big Day – Marty Bellis
- A Match Made In Socks – Laura Heath
- Momma’s Smile – Amber Hendricks
- The Perfect Valentine – Kimberly Shrack
- Miss Frog And Mister Turtle – Sharon McCarthy
- The Trees Of The Girl Who Raised Bees – B.J. Genovese
- Mailbirds: Valentine’s Day – Reed Ambrose
- The Perfect Card – Keely Leim
- Valentine’s Day Is For Everyone – Janet Scratchley
- Valentine’s In The Jungle – Melissa Rafson Friedman
- The Lovesick Groundhog – Debbie Daugherty
- Rosas For Senor Perez – Carmen Castillo Gilbert
- Get Well Soon, Mrs. Love – Rebekah Hoeft
- A Valentine For You – Marty Findley
- Cupid, A New Generation – Linda Staszak
- A Valentine For Her – Marty Findley
- Mr. Sunder’s Valentine’s Day Cookie – Marta Cutler
- Valentine Countdown – Marta Cutler
- V’s For Valentine – Rachel Bandy
- ValenTINY – Jessica Milo
- Three Hearts – A. Kidd
- I Whale Always Love You – Kimberly Horch
- Isabella’s Valentine – Terrie Hellard-Brown
- Dear Moon – Carissa Brown
- A Nose For Love – Julie Kurtz
- Rabbit [heart] Rebecca – Anne Bromley
- The Heart Of A Wizard – Jany Campana
- Sweet Valentine – Daniella Kaufman
- The Valentine’s Cake – Kate Thompson
- Gene’s Forbidden Valentine – Vanessa Konoval
- The Best Part – Sarah Meade
- V-Day! – Sarah Meade
- The Special Valentine Card – Sherry Roberts
- Cutting Is Hard – Ashley Chance
- Hammie’s Valentine Surprise – Jenna Elyse Johnson
- Pinky’s Message – Elizabeth Muster
- Everyting You Taught Me – Shuba Mohan
- It’s A Matter Of Taste – Corine Timmer
- Broken Hearts Need Love Too – Stephanie Henson
- All Aboard – Debbie Whittam
- Dove Letters – Amy LaMae Brewer
- My Furry Valentine – Tiffany Hanson
- A Squawking Serenade – Tiffany Hanson
- Proud That You Are Mine – Tonnye Fletcher
- Mother, You Are One In A Million – Elaine D’Alessandro
- King Of Love – Sue Ko
- Rose’s Creative Valentines – Elaine D’Alessandro
- Dear Valentine – Jill Burns
- Subterranean Lovesick Blues – Andrea MacDonald
- Love, Mama And Me – Karen Olmstead
- A Gift For My Mami – Lana Montalban
- Baby Bear’s Heart – Lori Himmel
- Gumballs – Jill Purtee
- Beaming With Pride – Paul Kurtz
- Proud As A Peacock – Paul Kurtz
- Don’t-Let-The-Dung-Beetle-Make-The-Valentine-Brownies! – Donna Kurtz
- Best Valentine’s Day Ever! – Donna Kurtz
- To Sarah – Elizabeth Westra
- The Heart-Shaped Mitten – Sherri T. Mercer
- Love Inside – Kristy Roser Nuttall
- Valentine’s Field Trip – Darcee Freier
- Heart And Hands – Marjorie David
- Flicker’s Valentine – Laura Bost
- A Valentine For Birders – Geraldine Oades-Sese
- The Floofabims – Sabrina Shah
- I Wanted To Say I Love You – Joy Curtis
- Percy’s Performance – Allison Strick
- Showdown In Smoochalot – Jesse Anna Bornemann
- Theo’s Not-So-Perfect Valentine’s Day – Kelsey E. Gross
- Mama, Are You Proud Of Me? – Pamela Swanson
- Awesome Together – Sarah Hetu
- Valentine’s Breakfast For Mom – Patti Ranson
- Special Delivery – Emily Keener
- Harriet’s Cards – Jessica Reed
- Dolley’s Favorite Month – Lincoln Mansch
- Llama Love – Laura Bower
- Will You Be My Valentine? – Michelle S. Kennedy
- Sunshine Valentine – Vashti Verbowski
- Shelby’s Heartache – Susannah Lee
- Taffy’s Sweet Surprise – Mary Schultz
- Where Is Puppito? – Bridget Magee
- Princess Candace – Sheila R. Schmotzer
- Suzie And Jordan’s Special Day – Shadi Kafi
- Valentine Delivery – Part II (sequel to 2021 Valentine Contest Entry) – Katie Brandyberry
- A Friend For Valentine’s Day – Daniele Arndt
- Hoppy Belated Valentine – Zach Schloss
- Remember The Love – Ashley Murray
- The Proudest Pencil – Lori Sheroan
- My Gummy Love – Lauri C. Meyers
- Love ME – Melissa Rutigliano
- Love Potions And Laughter – Tiffany Hanson
- A Cake-tastrophe – Tiffany Hanson
- The Valentine’s Day Invitiational – Lori Keating
- Lost But Found – Armineh Manookian
- L-O-V-E – Ronda Einbinder
- Shakesbear In Love – MaryLee Flannigan
- A New Friend – Steve Jankousky
- What Kind Of Cupid Am I? – Alayne Kay Christian
- My Hero – Dawn Young
- Valentine’s Day Dance-Off In Nestville – Lynn Marie Moore
- Hidden In These Hallowed Hills – Shuba Mohan
- A Rose For Toad – Ashlee MacCallum
- I Do NOT Like Rohini Rao – Sandhya Acharya
- Untitled – M.M. Sutanto
- A Heart Of Gold – Ryan Schneck
- Haiku Valentines: Love In 5-7-5 Rhyme – Brenda Whitehead
- Kate’s Valentines – Sheila M. Hausbeck
- A Nest For Bluegill – Katie Palazzola
- A Puzzling Valentine – My Side Of The Phone Call… – Ingrid Boydston
- Smelly Kelly – Glenda Roberson
- Underneath It All – Carrie Charley Brown
- How To Find A Valentine – Bevin Rolfs Spencer
- My Daddy’s Valentine – Gayle Krause
- Proud Valentine’s Day – Deborah Hunt
- A Valentine For Annie B. Bear – Charlotte Dixon
- Valentine’s Day Heartache – Cindy Greene
- Valentine Shenanigans – Vasilia Graboski
- You Make Me So Proud – Erika Romero
- I Am Proud To Be Your Friend – Kerry Porter
- Love Somebody – Brigid Finucane
- Marcus Is Not An Elephant: How A Woolly Mammoth Makes A Friend – Susan Schwartz Twiggs
- Purple Lace – Liz Kehrli
- Puppy Love – Kathy Halsey
- Valentine’s Day Booty – Danielle Sharkan
- Wholeheartedly – Catherine Brewer
- Valentine Barks – Kathy Crable
- Oog Love Rock – Katie Palazzola
- C.I.T. (Cupid In Training) – Colleen Murphy
- Allie’s Biggest Heart – Julianna Helt
- Detective Spot And The Search For A New Cupid – Sophia Moore (age 10)
- The Valentine Surprise – Claire Noland
- The Purrfect Valentine – Tara Knox Cerven
- A Valentine For Mr. Weatherly – Lindsay Moretti
- A Proud Mum – Shariffa Keshavje
- Valentine’s Day At Sweet Pig’s – Patricia Corcoran
- Poppy’s Gift – Melanie Adkins
- Go Tell Bully Brady – Mona Pease
- Valentine Surprise – Abby Wooldridge
- Full Of Heart – Allison Burke
- Two Little Valentines – Judy Abelove Shemtob
- A Change Of Heart – Michaela Almeida
- The Mural – Susanne Whitehouse
- The Perfect Friend Chip – Cheryl Simon
- Sloth’s Original Valentine – Judy Sobanski
- Be My Fred – Lisa Furness
- Cupid’s Confidence – Amy Leskowski
- The Flower Code – Ashlee Hashman
- A Valentine For Jake – Andrew Fairchild
- Cardi V – Alicia Meyers
- The Heart Of The Matter – Sarah Marhevsky
- Bear And Fish – A Love Story – Aly Kenna
- Valentine Wins – Sara Petersohn
- Sweet Breakfast – JC Kelly
- ValenTalent Show – Becky Goodman
- Marla’s Mistake – Jessica Watts
- The Koi That Should Have Been In The Zodiac – MeiLin Chan
- Surprise Valentine’s Day Party – Una Belle Townsend
- My First Love – Adolfo Gomez-Herrera
THE PERFECT PRESENT
By Sara Kruger
Word Count: 214
Joy joined her classmates crowded around the Valentine’s Day list.
Her heart sank when she saw who she was paired with for the homemade-gift exchange: Naomi—the walking rain cloud.
“Naomi!” Joy said in a rainbow-bright voice. “So, what do you like?”
Naomi shrugged.
Joy’s smile slipped. “Well, my favorite things are unicorns and cookies with sprinkles.”
Naomi furrowed her brow.
Joy sighed. She wanted to make something Naomi would love, but what?
She searched for ideas all afternoon.
In music, Naomi plucked at a mandolin.
In PE, she was picked last for dodgeball.
And in art, her project was unrecognizable.
After school, Joy doodled and mused, but by supper, she was still stumped.
The next day, while blowing bubbles, she saw Naomi gathering dandelions.
Inspiration struck.
Joy sketched, stenciled, glued—and second-guessed. What if Naomi thought her gift was silly? Or worse—ugly?
The day of the Valentine’s party, Naomi handed Joy several crumpled pages stapled together.
The Unicorn Who Loved Sprinkles
By Naomi
Joy squealed. “I love it!”
Then she gave Naomi her gift.
“It’s a vase,” Joy explained, “for your dandelions.”
Naomi turned it slowly.
She pulled dandelions and wildflowers from her bag and arranged a bouquet.
“It’s beautiful. Thank you,” she said, joy brightening her voice like a rainbow.
Joy beamed with pride.
What a lovely story, Sara. So much heart…and kindness and compassion on the part of Joy. And we can see that Naomi was a thoughtful caring child also – her gift was exactly what Joy had said were her favorite things. You’ve got some nice word-play and alliteration and element of three going on here…Well done!
So sweet. And Joy also learns that Naomi is a thoughtful caring person despite her first impression. It’s making me a little teary!
Sara, this is a “perfect” Valentiny” story! 🙂
Great story, I feel the kindness in her heart. The best gifts are the simple, thoughtful ones as you showed.
I love that the secondary charater was thoughtful too and wrote a story. Best Wishes!
Aw, very sweet story! I love how both Naomi and Joy were so thoughtful in their gifts.
Get Well Soon, Mrs. Love
Rebekah Hoeft
214 words
“Mrs. Love shouldn’t miss our party AND presents,” Ingrid said indignanty.
Omar agreed. “We worked hard on her gifts. Could you deliver them?”
Everyone looked at me, knowing I lived on our teacher’s street. I felt nervous but to cheer her up, I agreed.
On the way, I practiced the poem I’d written. I knocked, holding out the box of gifts when she tiredly opened the door.
Shyly I stammered, “…H-h-happy Valentine’s Day.
Bertha and Bree made a card with pink beads.
Eve shaped a heart for your birds with some seeds.
Omar and Oak wrote a Valentine’s joke.
Ume’s heart sculpture was great (till it broke).
Rue drew a lovebug so cute and so weird.
Von’s homemade chocolate has – GASP! – disappeared.
Anamaria recorded a song.
Lex penned a letter but spelled your name wrong.
Elle made a crown with those jewels that stick.
Neal’s heart is HEAVY with paint smeared on thick.
Tula thought tulips would be your delight.
Ingrid felt strongly that roses were right.
None of us like that you’re out with the flu.
Each of our presents say we sure love you!
Mrs. Love beamed. “I’ve never been more happy to be your teacher. Thank you.”
She waved and I walked away, bursting with pride that we’d made her smile.
Cute story but you posted as a reply to mine rather than its own comment. You’ll want to repost!
Whoops! So sorry–posed this as a reply intead of a new comment. 🙂
Great character work! I love the rich depth you gave them for such a short piece. “Naomi – the walking rain cloud” – fantastic!
It’s raining sprinkles! I love your Joy-ful and creative Valentine twist on O. Henry’s THE GIFT OF THE MAGI.
Such a sweet story, Sara! I love both girls’ thoughtful gifts.
Love this sweet story! Well done!
I love it, Sara!!! Great job. So much heart and lovely language.
Love the sweet friendship that has budded and the careful ways they each considered the other’s interests.
Aww, this is so sweet! I love how Joy paid attention to find the perfect gift for Naomi.
This is such a nice reminder that we all contain a rainbow of talents and abilities. The language is precise, and I can tell it was carefully chosen. Great work!
This is truly sweet!
This is such a sweet story, Sara! Perfect for Valentine’s Day!
Thoughtfulness wins the day!
Very sweet story. Loved it!
DR. BASIL DISCOVERS HIS SECRET ADMIRER
By Royal Baysinger
214 words
“Behold, Boris! In all my cleverness, I have created a device capable of discerning people’s true feelings: The Apple-of-My-Eyeglasses – complete with audio receivers! And just in time for Valentine’s Day, when everyone thinks of those they secretly love and admire!”
“Careful, Dr. Basil, sir. I don’t think private feelings should be overheard.”
“Nonsense! These piteous peasants would praise me openly if they were not intimidated by my towering intellect! But today, their fond Valentine thoughts will not be in vain!”
Dr. Basil strutted past heart-decorated storefronts, scanning townspeople one by one with his eavesdropping eyeglasses. He heard, in perfect clarity, the feelings of their hearts:
[Oh no, not Dr. Basil!]
[That guy gives me the creeps.]
[I wish he’d move away!]
Every word battered his ego.
Dr. Basil moped back home. Boris raced after him.
“Wait, Dr. Basil, sir!”
“I have examined everyone, Boris…they despise me….”
“You didn’t examine me.”
Dejected, Dr. Basil scanned his loyal assistant. He heard, in perfect clarity, the feelings of Boris’s heart:
[Dr. Basil’s the world’s greatest scientist! I’m proud to call him my friend!]
Dr. Basil beamed.
“Very good, Boris. To the laboratory! We have a Good-Luck-Charm Bracelet to devise! St. Patricks Day will soon be here!”
“Yes, Dr. Basil, sir!”
How clever, Royal…Apple of My-Eyeglasses. I love it.
And they do say we shouldn’t eavesdrop on conversations because we might not like what we hear. Great pacing…and I enjoyed the back and forth with Boris and Dr. Basil…Nicely done!
Scientists with their loyal assistants make such great duos! It’s great to have a Valentines story with some tech and no flowers. Very clever and sweet.
Vivian, I am so honoured that you took the time to read my story and to leave some comments! Thanks for your insight! I will use this as a lesson in pacing and dialogue! I’m glad you enjoyed the Apple-of-My-Eyeglasses! I’ll be sure to send you a pair if Dr. Basil ever starts mass-producing them!
Lori, I was glad to hear you enjoy a story with more tech and no flowers, I will keep that in mind in my future endeavours! Thank you so much for taking the time to read my work and leave some feedback!
Royal, this is a great story! I think we need a St. Patrick’s Day contest to see what happens with the Good-Luck-Charm Bracelet! 🙂
Thanks so much for your kind words, Susan! I must admit, I am interested myself in what happens with the Good-Luck-Charm Bracelet. Even without a contest, I will have to check in with Dr. Basil as the time draws closer in order to find out.
I love the unique characters. Kids will love them and their fun banter. Very clever!
Cathy, thank you so very much for taking the time to read my story and leave feedback! I’m glad to hear you enjoyed Dr. Basil and Boris! They certainly are a dynamic pair!
Extremely original and fun. You sure packed a lot into 214 words. Best Wishes!
Aileen, thank you for taking the time to read my work! I’m glad you had fun! This is one I definitely intend to expand a bit. Thanks for the kind wishes!
I really enjoyed this story – creative, interesting characters, definitely shows pride in Dr. Basil, and a funny twist with a sweet ending. Great work!
Debbie, I am so pleased to hear you enjoyed my story! Oh, poor prideful Dr. Basil! It’s a good thing he has such a good friend in Boris to help straighten him out a bit. Boris does what he can! Thanks for taking the time to leave feedback!
Oh, I love the humor. And, smart and sweet Boris!
Katie, thank you so much for reading about Boris and his conceited friend Dr. Basil! I’m glad you enjoyed it! And I’m sure Boris appreciates the kind sentiments!
A wildly inventive head-and-heart story with fantastic humor—and all the feels!
Oh, Anne! Yet again you give the most perfect book endorsement-sounding comment ever! “Inventive!” If only more of us had your gift for finding the right words! I wish I could use your endorsements on submissions! Thanks for taking the time to read and comment! I always appreciate it!
This is so much fun! I love the clever premise, sweet twist, and upbeat ending.
Sarah, as always, I value your feedback! Thank you so much for taking the time! I’m glad you enjoyed Dr. Basil! It helps hearing what worked for you!
Unique and fun!
Corine, thanks so much for taking the time to read my story and leave feedback! I know you read a lot of these, so it means a lot when you say it is both unique and fun! Thanks again!
My pleasure. I’m sure you have read more than me. You’re very generous with your time commenting on so many people’s entries. The variety is inspiring. Love Susanna’s Contests. Isn’t it wonderful!?
This is so fun and clever!
Armineh, I’m so glad to hear you had fun reading about Dr. Basil and his valentine misadventure! I appreciate you taking the time to leave feedback!
This is so clever!
Allison, I am always impressed with your characters and their adventures, so it means a lot to hear you call mine clever! Thanks for taking the time to read and leave feedback!
Oh, this is so fun! “Apple-of-My-Eyeglasses” — I love it!
Jesse, you calling my story fun is “like syrup on biscuits!” I’ll put you on the waiting list if I ever convince Dr. Basil to mass-produce his Apple-of-My-Eyeglasses! Thanks for taking the time to read and comment!
Another great premise! You always come up with the most fun ideas!
Ingrid, you are TOO sweet! I appreciate you ALWAYS commenting on my work! I will try to keep the fun ideas coming! Your words are encouraging! Thanks again for taking the time to read and comment!
It’s my pleasure! I don’t know how you craft such great stories in the amount of time between the announcement of guidelines and the open window to post. Always impressed! 😊
Cute, clever, and so much fun! Great story, Royal!
Jill, I am so glad to hear you enjoyed Dr. Basil! Thanks so much for taking the time to read it and leave such sweet feedback!
I didn’t want to stop reading! Please turn this into a series.
Kathleen, thank you for such high praise! I will have to see what else Dr. Basil and Boris have to say. I’m sure there will be something. You know how much Dr. Basil LOVES to hear himself talk…. Thanks again for taking the time to read and for leaving feedback! I really appreciate it!
So clever and original. Royal. Love the ending.
Kathy, thanks so much for taking the time to read my work and leave such kind comments! I’m glad you liked the ending!
This is excellent! How clever and fun! I really enjoyed it! Please tell me your next story is going to be all about the “Good-Luck-Charm Bracelet”! Great job!
Daniele, I’m so very glad you enjoyed reading my story! Thanks for taking the time to also leave feedback! As Valentine’s Day is wrapping up, I’m sure Dr. Basil and Boris will soon be underway in their developments of said bracelet. I will try to check in with them and record their antics!
Awesome!
What a fun story, Royal! My favorite phrase: These piteous peasants would praise me openly . . . Love me some alliteration!
Golly, Glenda! It’s so sweet of you to say you have a soft spot for my story! A thousand thanks for thumbing through it!
So heartfelt as well as clever! Your two characters are meant for a series! Such fun reading this and wanting more.
Anne, thank you so much for your kind comments! I will be sure to check in again with Dr. Basil and Boris to see what other fun adventures they have to share! Thanks again for taking the time to read my work!
Very clever! Looking forward to the Good-Luck-Charm Bracelet!
Deborah, thanks so very much for taking the time to read and comment on my story! A lot of us, myself included, seem to want to know more about this Good-Luck-Charm Bracelet! I will be sure to ask Dr. Basil all about it next month!
“In all my cleverness” – a set up that almost certainly dooms the speaker to failure. Yet I was so glad to see that Dr. Basil, though humbled (perhaps!), was not crushed. Love prevailed – and what a nice reminder that there are many kinds of love! Also, I love that he could hear the feelings of others’ hearts. Setting off the thoughts in parentheses worked really nicely.
Royal, this is so original! A study of the honesty of our inner voice. Children will love this and it will spark many “voiced” discussions!
Royal – Loved the Apple-of-My-Eyeglasses. How clever. And such a captivating voice. As I was reading I couldn’t help but think how much my son would love your story! Plus great use of alliteration and word choice.
Ha ha! A nice ending – one person can make all the difference
Such a fun story arc. Love your characterization of Boris. And also appreciate your thoughtful comments throughout the contest entries. You have a keen eye. I look forward to reading more of your work!
Well done!! This is so fun and sweet. Love so many of your phrases. And the ending!
Very cute and clever story. However, I do not think I would like a pair of these glasses!!
You had me at The Apple-of-My-Eyeglasses! So fun! Good luck to you in the contest. 🙂
Apple of my-eyeglasses made me laugh out loud! Well done, Royal!
Such a creative premise and fun characters! Apple-of-My-Eyeglasses is brilliant! Now I want to know what the St. Patrick’s Day Good-Luck-Charm Bracelet will bring!
TEENY HOUDINI
by Heather Ferranti Kinser
Word Count: 213
In a vole hole tiny-teeny
lived a vole they called Houdini.
She was always disappearing when the neighbors happened by—
being timid, small, and shy.
She had heard that Bear was grumpy
and that Hare was awfully jumpy.
Otter badgered, Badger bothered, Jaybird jabbered—so they said.
So the vole stayed home in bed.
Through the winter, cold and snowy,
she was never bold or showy.
All alone, she practiced magic tricks that no one ever saw.
Then…the world began to thaw.
Buoyant Badger came to greet her.
Active Otter tried to meet her.
Hare and Jaybird thumped the ground and squawked, “We’ve come to pay a call.”
Friendly neighbors, one and all.
Bear (who’d once been small and worried
in a world too loud and hurried)
knew a kind and gentle word or two could ease a frightened mind.
So he made a Valentine!
Hi Houdini. We may seem to be
a scary bunch of enemies.
But we are gentle forest friends who want play and share.
Will you join us?
Love, the Bear.
Filled with magic inspiration
from that heartfelt invitation,
small Houdini started creeping out, with hat and wand and cape—
in a daring,
bold
ESCAPE!
Yes, Houdini’s tricks amazed the crowd.
She was brave!
And they were proud.
“Houdini-hip-hooray!”
OMG, I might not be able to keep reading these stories. Three for three already so sweet and caring, making me just want to run and give hugs. I would hate to be the judges!
Heather, love this poem! The final line is perfect! 🙂
So sweet. I especially loved this line- “who’d once been small and worried
in a world too loud and hurried.” We can all relate 🙂
Awe. So proud she was brave in the end. Best Wishes!
Great rhyme! You did a fantastic job fleshing out characters in so few words, we really feel for Houdini.
I love timid Houdini! Your descriptions of the other animal characters in the second stanza is FANTASTIC!
This is so delightful. I loved reading it aloud and imagining the adorable animal characters. What a sweet ending too!
Wow, this was so fun to read aloud! Yay for Houdini!
Your rhymes are so fantastic, Heather. You always inspire me to be better! I especially love “small and worried in a world too loud and hurried.” Who can’t relate?
Delightful! Full of emotion and clever word play!
This is adorable, Heather!
I love the unexpected surprise of “tiny-teeny” – just flipping the usual order of those words makes the first line a pleasure, and the goodness spreads from there. I also really like the use of badger(ed) as two different parts of speech, back to back!
Love the rhyme and wordplay! Nicely done!
Wonderful story and fun to read aloud.
Sometimes we all feel like staying in bed. Teeny Houdini is an inspiration!
How to Win at Wordle
by Anne Lipton
Word count: 214
“Happy Valentine’s Day!” Mom hands me her phone. “Instead of a valentine, I made you a custom word puzzle.”
“Cool! Thanks!” I love games.
When I was having a hard time learning to spell, Mom brought out her old Scrabble board. “Let’s take it one letter at a time.”
I like the smooth slip of the Scrabble tiles between my fingers, but word games are tough. I study the rows of boxes on the phone screen.
“You have six tries to guess the five-letter word,” Mom says.
Hmm. What word should I guess? Probably one with lots of common letters like vowels. Plus, it’s a Valentine’s Day puzzle, so I key in . . .
HEART.
The fourth box flips to yellow.
“Green means you have the right letter in the right position.” Mom explains. “Yellow means the letter belongs in a different position.”
Great. I’ll never be crowned champion of this game.
Wait! That’s it!
I lay down
CROWN.
The second and third boxes glow bright green.
_RO_ _
I pore (not pour!) over the keyboard for odd letters out, prod my brain, and drop in
PROUD.
All five boxes light up.
Woo-hoo! I win! The Gaming Queen reigns supreme!
But—“Why PROUD?”
Mom beams at me. “Because LOVE is only four letters.”
Very trendy, with Wordle being so hot at the moment. And super cute that you worked in the contest theme as the word and caught a parent’s feelings so well.
Thanks, Lori!
I too played some awesome scrabble games with my mother-in-law. I like how you tied it into the current Wordle game and you used “LOVE” and “PROUD” as spelled out tiles. Great job.
Thanks, Cathy!
Great explanation of how to play. Best wishes!
Thanks, Aileen!
Sweet and different to have a mom-based Valentine story! I can relate to mothers who enjoy Scrabble and other word games.
Thanks, Royal!
This is so timely and sweet. My favorite line: “I like the smooth slip of the Scrabble tiles between my fingers, but word games are tough.”
Thanks, Kelly!
Aww!! So sweet! I love your take on Valentiny this year…such a different concept. Good luck!
Thanks, Molly!
This story is perfection! So timely, perfect PROUD moment, and a lovely ending line. I always enjoy reading your excellent entries, Anne!
Oh, my writer’s heart. Thank you, Sarah! Your kind words mean so much.❤️
Relatable with good tension and a sweet ending! Well done!
Thank you!
Wordle is so very popular this was a great idea! 🙂
Thank you!
This is unique, clever and sweet. Love the interaction between mother and child.
Thanks, Corine!
Anne! I always look forward to reading your unique entries, and you did not disappoint. Timely, clever, and the sweetest ending. I love it!
Thanks, Glenda!
Haha, so timely!
Thanks, Allison!
This is wonderful, Anne! My mom and I have been playing Scrabble together since I was 5, so your story really resonates with me. The room almost got a little dusty! *sniffle*
Awww. Thank you! So glad to hear my words evoked such precious memories.
Timely, topical and touching! Love it!
Thanks, Ingrid! I enjoyed yours, too! We both had something about puzzles and phones in our stories = Great minds!
I always look forward to reading your stories, Anne. This is adorable! I love the last line!
Wow. Thanks, Jill! Your kind praise means so much.
Clever and heartwarming. I loved “The Gaming Queen reigns supreme!” GREAT job, Anne!
Thanks, Kathleen! And I see what you did THERE with GREAT!😉
Very sweet; perfect for Valentine’s Day 🙂
Thanks, Marty!
“[S]mooth slip of the Scrabble tiles” manages to work in alliteration and sensory detail and, really, almost onomatopoeia. It’s my favorite line!
Thank you!
How fun to use Wordle! I love the last line – very sweet.
Thank you!
Clever, Anne! Perfect for this year.
Thanks, Amy!
So trendy! And I love how you worked in the contest theme:) So fun Anne!!
Thanks, Vashti!
Eva Valentina’s Day
By Katie Fischer
WC 199
On Friday, Mr. Goss said next week would be the class’s Valentine’s Day party.
Eva Valentina perked up, a party, a DAY, all about her?
Nobody else had a day.
But, apparently, she DID.
Mr. Goss was so nice!
She walked home with a spring in her step.
Saturday, Eva Valentina pondered her party.
It was a big honor. She should show her thanks.
All day Sunday, Eva Valentina scribbled, taped, glued, snipped, folded, and taped some more.
On Monday she was ready.
She strode into class, head high. The room burst with color and sparkly hearts.
“Happy Valentine’s Day!” Mr. Goss said.
“Thanks,” Eva Valentina replied, “maybe next month we’ll have a Mr. Goss day.”
Mr. Goss paused, “Oh, I’m sorry if I confused you, but Valentine’s Day is a regular holiday like Earth Day or St Patrick’s day…”
The big warm feeling inside her chest suddenly felt cold.
“Oh no,” Eva Valentina whispered, “but I made thank you cards for everyone.”
Mr. Goss smiled. “Perfect!” He whispered back, “We ALL give each other cards on Valentine’s Day.”
She puffed her cheeks; it might not be her special day…
But she definitely had made the most special cards.
Love her name and the twist. And she made thank you cards! Sweetest thing ever. I could feel her heart.
Thanks, that’s a name that’s been sitting around waiting for a story, and this was finally the right one for her.
What an original mistake for her to make. Best Wishes!
Thanks!
I like Eva’s suggestion that “maybe next month we’ll have a Mr. Goss day!” She was so thoughtful!
Thanks!
What a sweet story! 🙂
Thanks, I had a lot of fun with it.
Eva is such a sweetie!
Thanks, I was hoping to convey pride in her day without making her rude.
You captured the nature of a certain five year old I know, and I kid you not, her name is Valentina! Lol!
Thanks! I love the name.
One of the best parts of writing is getting to use names you won’t get to in real life.
This is such a cute story! I love Eva’s sweet heart!
Thanks!
Your story felt fresh and fun. Great twist!
Thank you!
Loved this sweet story!
Thanks!
What a beautiful name and play on the theme with Eva Valentina!
Thanks so much!
Chick Forgot Valentine’s Day
by Jess Burbank
Word Count: 214
Chick woke up to, “Surprise!” He’d received many notes,
From mother and father, the pigs and the goats.
Duck sent him a worm treat; it came on a tray!
He was feeling so loved on this Valentine’s Day.
Then Chick pecked and preened like he did every morning.
When Duck rambled by him without any warning.
“Hey Duck, you look gloomy. You feelin’ ok?”
“Fine,” Duck said, sadly, “Happy Valentine’s Day.”
Chick’s face went red. His whole body went hot.
He‘d meant to send Duck a card, but he forgot.
Duck was so hurt that Chick didn’t send one.
Actually, Chick failed to send ANY friend one.
So Chick went to work, he grabbed paper and scissors,
markers and glue, even doilies and glitters.
He cut and he wrote, he glued and he crafted.
Soon dozens of Valentine’s letters were drafted.
His first stop was Duck’s place to fix his mistake.
He found his friend paddling out in the lake.
“Hi, Duck!” Chick shouted, “Just dropped by to say,
I’m so glad you’re my friend. Happy Valentine’s Day.”
Then Chick’s face went red. His whole body went hot,
but this time it wasn’t because he forgot.
He was all warm with pride, Wow! That is appealing!
He’d made his friend happy, what a fabulous feeling.
Love your way of using chicks face feeling hot in two different ways, and great job showing Chick acknowledging a mistake and fixing it.
A great reminder to send love and appreciation to those who make a difference in our lives on Valentine’s Day!
This is so cute! The last stanza is my favorite.
I like the characters you chose for your story! 🙂
Well this was just delightful!
Very nice! You twisted our emotions in just the right way!
Such a cute story! I love the last two lines!
Excellent rhyme and rhythm . . . not easy. Loved this sweet story.
The Make-A-Valentine Contest
by Hanna Geshelin
word count: 212
A Valentine’s contest? I knew it:
My smart sister Beth would pursue it.
I just couldn’t win;
I’m not sharp like my twin,
But somehow I’d have to get through it.
My sister was so sure she’d win
That she almost forgot to begin.
But I buckled right down
And worked with a frown,
And made a great card for my twin.
Just guess my surprise when Ms. Pruitt,
Our teacher, said, “Benny, I knew it!
Though in writing a beginner,
This time you’re the winner,
Your poem, love and art–they just do it!”
I strutted around for a week
While Bethany acted quite meek,
For losing was new
And made her feel blue.
She saw that she wasn’t unique.
Though change didn’t come in a blink,
Bethany started to think.
My card showed my love,
And gave her a shove.
She realized she’d been a real stink.
She said, “Being best doesn’t matter
If others’ lives you just shatter.”
And my heart swelled with pride
While our mama just sighed
And served chocolate cake on a platter.
‘Cause my Valentine’s card, the school’s best,
Showed my twin sister how she was blessed.
It made me feel great
And helped her go straight.
We both won, and that’s not a jest.
Great depiction of sibling rivalry!
Love the sibling dynamics, especially in relation to winning attitudes.
Fun limerick style!
So fun to read! Good luck!
What a fun read! 🙂
This is delightful to read aloud. I especially love “She realized she’d been a real stink.”
Glad these rival sisters found some love on Valentine’s day!
Sibling rivalry to sibling love- that’s a winning combo!
A great lesson and a fun read! Love it!
Cute, with a message and some great rhymes: blessed/jest/best, matter/shatter/platter my faves.
I like how you capture the feeling of the new kid from somewhere else who doesn’t know quite know what is going on. I’m glad it all works out in the end for Eva.
Thanks!
Never Too Many Valentines
Lori C Evans
Word count 205
Snip, cut, doodle, draw.
I made a valentine for ma.
Snip, cut, doodle, draw.
I made a valentine for pa.
And then I snipped some for my brothers,
And both grandpas and grandmothers.
I saw their smiles begin to spread
And then I knew what lay ahead.
Snip, cut, doodle, dot.
I scribbled one for our dog Spot.
And then our cat, and then our snake.
I drew one for my best friend, Jake.
My aunt, my uncle, cousin Sue,
My cousins Rob and Gina, too.
My doctor, dentist, school bus driver.
The soccer coach, let’s not deprive her.
Snip, fold, doodle, paste,
I made more valentines with haste.
One for each house on our street,
That’s fifteen more, no easy feat.
For class I needed twenty-four,
But wait — the teacher — that’s one more.
Each happy face gave me a kick.
I had to write some more real quick!
Doodle, paste, cut and bend.
I didn’t want to miss one friend.
I made some extras, just in case
I spied a sad and lonely face.
On Valentine’s Day I felt so proud,
To know I’d spread love to a crowd.
And next year when it comes again,
I hope to make this much times ten!
(PS it’s exactly 214 words if you count the title/name/word count info – 😍)
Thank you, once again, Susanna Hill, for putting together a fabulous contest. I hope you are getting lots of love and hugs to carry you through your family situation and that when you have a chance to read the entries you also feel extra hugged!
I love you “doodle lines.” So fun to read. My favorite stanza- Doodle, paste, cut and bend.
I didn’t want to miss one friend.
I made some extras, just in case
I spied a sad and lonely face.
Her caring about others is beautiful, as is your sentiment to Susanna.:)
Thank you so much!
That is a mighty industrious child :0) Best Wishes!
Haha, yes it is. We never bought valentines in our house but not sure we made this many either.
I have small kids so this is 100% what my house feels like right now! You’ve captured their reality perfectly!
😍❤️😻
“Snip, Cut, Doodle, Draw.” Wow! That line, and its subsequent variations, read like classic picture book favourites. I love all of the MANY people your character thinks to gift valentines to.
It’s like you spied on my house😆
Your use of repetition/refrain was super fun to read.
A wonderful ode to the joys and hard work of making a handcrafted work of art! I love how the sound of the semi-refrain echoes the repeated actions of the project.
Sweet! I love the doodle lines, too!
This was so much fun to read! Wish my kids had this much energy for putting their valentines together…
Aww! This is how I feel about this contest! I never want to miss an entry( I don’t know if I’ll make it) but they are all so good. I love yours!
This is such a sweet story! I love that the child makes sure no one gets left out! Perfect!
Well done!
Great job with this, Lori!! Beautifully done.
Proud As A Peacock
Bru Benson
Word Count: 91
Rainbow paper
Tear here
Tear there.
Cut cut
Paste paste
Scissors careful
Snip snip
Watchful eyes
Behind me
Heart shape red
Fanny funny
Upside down
Snip
Cut
Paste Paste
Don’t eat.
Sprinkle sparkle
On the ends
Crayon color
inside only
Cut white
on red
Paste
in middle
sides don’t match.
Almost done
Name on back
first time
Using scissors
by myself.
A mom valentine
from me to you
proud as a
Peacock.
OH!
Snip snip
paper of blue
Cut cut
Tear tear
Colors everywhere.
A proud peacock
almost done
For you.
Great job. I love how you take us visually through hr creation. So fun to read.
Thank you
The part about not eating paste made me giggle. Best Wishes!
I remember that from long ago. There was always one who tried it despite the teacher’s warning.
Wonderful rhyming! So imaginative. A great read for sure.
Thank you
Cute! Love the short, punchy lines w/ rhythm and lots of action.
Thank you.
This puts me right there watching a child crafting for their mother! I would love to see this illustrated!
Thank You
Love the lyrical quality of this!
Clever! You took us through the whole process so succinctly and poetically!
Cute story! Great descriptions from start to finish!
VALENTINE FARM
By Jennifer Lowe
211 Words
Cora paces Valentine Farm.
She’d followed Grammy’s instructions to a T.
Weeded the pesky ovals and squares.
Fertilized the hearts with oodles of love.
And shielded them from snow, wind, and rain…
while allowing the perfect amount of sun.
And yet…
Her homegrown hearts are wibbly. Wobbly. Certainly not the right shades of crimson.
NOTHING like the perfectly plump shapes Grammy used to grow.
Cora’s heart wilts. There will be no Valentine’s love to share this year.
“I’m sorry, Grammy. I failed you.”
Cora harvests the misshapen hearts… and stashes them in a heap for the garbage truck.
Valentine’s morning, Cora paces outside Grammy’s room. How to tell Grammy she’s a heart-farming flop?
“Cora, dear?”
Cora inches open Grammy’s door, head hanging low.
“Might you have something to do with this?” Grammy winks, nodding toward the television.
“It’s a Valentine’s Day marvel,” says the newscaster. “After that wind storm, folks awoke to HEARTS spread around town. Perfectly aerodynamic, in rare shades of rouge and fuchsia, our town is indeed covered in love. Back to you in the studio!”
Cora runs to the window. Hearts decorate rooftops and trees.
Her funny-looking,
oddly colored,
perfect-in-a-windstorm hearts.
“Cora, my heart-farming all-star,” says Grammy with a gleam. “You should be very proud.”
Cora’s heart blooms.
Love this. So unexpected and great visuals.
Thank you Cathy!
Awe. How creative and original. Best Wishes!
Thanks for reading Aileen!
This is so sweet Jennifer! I love how the hearts were blown all around town, spreading love, and how Cora’s heart blooms at the end! Nice job!
Thanks so much Laura! Glad you enjoyed it!
I LOVE the idea of a Valentine Farm! A sweet story showing children that heartfelt efforts yield success!
Thank you Royal! So glad you enjoyed Valentine Farm!
This really stands out as a unique concept! Best of luck!
Thanks so much Allison! Best of luck to you as well!
What a wonderful visual to go with the truly “heart warming” story!
Thank you Ingrid! Love that you could visualize Valentine Farm. Best of luck to you!
How fun to imagine the odd-haped hearts blowing in the wind and sitting in all kinds of interesting places through the town. Great imagery!
Very clever story! Love it.
Beautiful and heartwarming! I love the idea of a heart garden! Great story, Jennifer!
GARY GROUNDHOG CONQUERS THE SHADOW MONSTER
213 Words
Gary Groundhog’s fur shook, but not from the cold.
When he peeked from his hole, his eyes spotted the most beautiful creature.
He gulped, gathering his courage to say “Hello”.
Waddling over, he was about to speak..
“Click!”
Gary turned and noticed a crowd gathered around!
Then a giant dark monster appeared!
Gary dashed back down his hole.
“Six more weeks of winter, folks!”
Gary froze. He thought about the monster hurting his beloved.
“I’ll save you!” he shouted.
Gary shook off his jitters and popped from his hole!
The crowd was gone.
But there she stood.
She was dressed in white. Her pink scarf billowed in the breeze.
She wore matching gloves on her twiggy arms.
She had the cutest carrot nose!
Gary waddled towards her when suddenly the dark monster appeared!
The hair on Gary’s back rose – so did the monsters!
Gary stood tall – so did the monster!
He threw up his claws – so did the monster!
“Ahh!”
Gary jumped back…
But so did the monster!
Gary waved…
So did his shadow.
“Phew!”
Gary turned to the snowy creature, “Will you be my date to the Valentine’s Day dance?”
A cold wind whispered, “Yes”.
Gary strolled home, proud that he had conquered his fears and made a friend.
This is so clever and sweet. Your words help us feel the cold emptiness of the setting when the crowd disperses. The groundhog and a snow-woman- Perfect couple 🙂
Awe, so cute. Best Wishes!
Really sweet twist, and love the description of his sweetheart “twiggy arms”… literally 😆
This is such a clever combination of Ground Hog Day and Valentine’s Day! 🙂
BRILLIANT title! Draws you in immediately!
Haha, I’m glad the groundhog got to celebrate a second February holiday!
What a fun holiday mashup!
Cute, clever, and so much fun! Great story, Deborah!
This one would be great to see illustrated – the fear and the tenderness combined.
Tucker and the Sneezies
By Susan E. Schipper
WC 214
Dogs made Tucker sneeze. The second furry, four legged friends approached it would start! Tucker would erupt into sneezes. He would itch, which then made him scratch. This led to teary eyes. He was embarrassed whenever these bouts of sneezies occurred. Mama reminded Tucker it was not his fault this happened and cuddled him. Cuddles didn’t help!
Tucker told Mama he knew a special day was approaching. Today was February 4th, ten more days until Valentine’s Day. He wouldn’t have friends to share that day with if he couldn’t control his sneezies!
Tucker needed a plan. He made a list.
1. Plan a spa Valentine’s party
2. Invite my best friends
3. Have stations: Bubble tubs, brushing area, special heart shaped treats
Invitations were sent!! Preparations were under way!
Finally, the big day arrived. Tucker’s friends cautiously approached Tucker’s yard. They didn’t want him to have the sneezies. Tucker’s little Poodle tail wagged! “Come in”, he said cheerfully!
First stop Bubbles, then brushing. Tucker wasn’t sneezing! Tails were wagging. The furry friends were having fun! Bubble baths worked!
Mama was so proud of her pup. She told Tucker how pleased she was that he didn’t give up.
It was time to share valentines. Tucker looked at Mama and said, “Love you!” Happy Valentine’s Day!
I love that the solution to the problem was also a treat for the friends. Clever. Great job!
Thank you! 🙂
Nice surprise that Tucker was a dog. Best Wishes!
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
Didn’t see that coming, cute twist!
Thanks you !! 🙂
Adorable dog’s tale with a twist! I love how Tucker found a fun treat-ment to address his sneezies.
Thanks so much for reading! 🙂
As a list-maker, I LOVED how Tucker planned for success! And such a clever twist!
I’m a list maker as well !!
Thanks for reading!! 🙂
Oh Tucker! Happy Valentine’s Day sweet pup.
Thanks so much for reading! 🙂
A nice twist on the p.o.v.!
Thanks so much! 🙂
Clever and heartwarming. I loved “Bubble tubs, brushing area, special heart shaped treats.” Too cute!
Thanks so much! 🙂
So much fun! Well done.
Thank you , so glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
What a surprise and what a wonderful solution to his doggies sneezies! This is a sweet story, Tucker should be very proud of himself!
Thank you for reading Tucker’s Tale! 🙂
This is adorable! I can relate to making lists. Great twist!
Thanks for reading ! 🙂
When Dad Is Away
Word Count 185
Patty stared at her Valentine treasures.
A home-made card and a clay dish made in art class.
“Watcha doing?” her mom asked.
“Just waiting. Will Dad get home today?”
Her mom’s smile faltered. “I don’t know, Peanut. The snow’s coming down pretty hard.”
Patty hugged her. “Don’t worry mom. Dad will be fine!”
Mom brushed away a tear. “I just miss him when he has to travel for work.”
“We should make Dad’s favorite soup,” Patty said.
Her mom’s smile returned. “What a great idea.”
Staying busy helps, Patty thought as she chopped carrots.
“We should make cookies next,” she said.
Patty and mom cooked, and baked, and giggled all afternoon.
They giggled so loud, they didn’t hear the front door open.
“What’s going on in here?” Dad asked.
“Dad,” Patty shouted.
“How are my two favorite people?” he asked.
Patty hugged him with all her might.
“We’re great now that you’re home!” she said.
Her mom’s eyes shone. “And thanks to Patty, we have some Valentine surprises for you,” she said.
“That’s my girl,” he said as he ruffled the hair on Patty’s head.
So sweet—this is how we pass time also when someone in the family is traveling.
:0)
So well done! And so sweet!
I love the emotions of love and longing evoked in your heartwarming family valentine story!
:0)
This so sweet! 🙂
:0)
Beautiful, visual ending when Dad gets home!
:0)
What a sweet welcome!
:0)
You captured the emotions beautifully!
:0)
Sweet and warm, a perfect Valentine’s Day story, Aileen.
Thanks Kathy :0)
Beautiful heartfelt story! Nice!
:0)
Relatable and heartwarming!
:0)
It’s Valentine’s Day, Thomas, the Worm
Maria Lahman
word count 211
Usually, Thomas, the Worm slept through winter in a warm underground hole.
This winter, a warm spell caused Thomas to burrow to the surface. POP!
Mole was digging upwards also.
“Mole, what time of year is it?”
Mole, holding a red package, grunted, “Winter.” “I’m late,” and off he went.
Rabbit hopped by carrying a red bag.
“Rabbit,” Thomas called, “What’s going on”?
“It’s Feb. 14th,” Rabbit cried. “Don’t be late,” and off he hopped.
“Late for what?”
Mouse scurried by squeaking, “for the Valentine’s party at the hollow stump.”
“Bring a heart to share,” Mouse twittered, flashing a heart-shaped box of candy.
Valentine’s!
Thomas had heard about this day but had always been asleep.
Squirming behind Mouse, Thomas worried. What could he bring?
Thomas reached the stump.
Rabbit’s bag had heart-shaped carrot cookies.
Mole’s package was filled with paper hearts.
Mouse was passing out red heart candies.
What could Thomas do?
He thought and thought, and then he knew!
Thomas wiggled and squiggled. He formed a curve.
Thomas jiggled and wriggled. He bent into 2 curves.
Thomas squirmed and wormed. He touched his nose to toes or toes to his nose.
Thomas GLOWED pink with pride. He was a valentine!
“Happy Valentines, Thomas!” the animals cheered.
“Be mine,” said Thomas.
Awe. So sweet. Best Wishes!
Love your description of his wiggling his way into a heart shape, I could feel his excitement and pride!
Very creative Maria! I love how Thomas turns himself into a Valentine at the end!
I love how resourceful Thomas is! I particularly liked the sentence “He touched his nose to toes or toes to his nose!” A perfect story for a worm!
Nice thinking, Thomas!
Even a worm can be a Valentine! There’s hope for everyone!
Ahhhh, a valenworm! Cute.
This is so cute! I love the way Thomas comes up with a creative solution!
Heartwarming and so sweet! Great final scene.
Such a sweet longing for her Dad and you take us along the journey as she excitedly gets ready. Nice story.
The House on the Corner
Elyse Trevers
176 words
Scary new neighbors lurk in the house on the corner,
mumble a foreign language,
barricade their doors and
shutter their windows.
Baia, petite and gentle,
fears them.
She must pass by the house each day,
rushes on her way to school,
crosses the street when walking the dog.
All the other kids avoid the house,
whisper and call the neighbors names.
Then she remembers
her great-grandma Basha,
for whom she’s named.
Slight of stature,
she came to this country,
when she was only 14,
speaking a foreign language.
Some kind people helped
Great-Grandma begin a new life.
Baia bakes heart-shaped cookies,
using Great-Grandma’s recipe,
and wraps them up.
Taking a deep breath,
she stands tall as she climbs the steps to the house on the corner
and rings the bell.
“Welcome to the block.
Happy Valentine’s Day! It’s a holiday about love and friendship.”
Friendly new neighbors occupy the house on the corner,
wave as Baia passes,
keep their door slightly ajar
And their windows wide-open.
Baia befriended the new neighbors. Great-Grandma would have been proud.
Awww. This one really tugged at the heart. Sometimes it only takes a person to reach out in kindness to cross a bridge. I love how things have changed in the last stanza because of her actions. Great job.
Oh, that got my eyes a little teary… good job!
What a sweet story Elyse! Small steps can make big change!
Wow! I love the juxtaposition of the neighbours before and after sweet Baia’s Valentine gift! I also LOVED how informed she was about her Great-Grandma’s life and how she chose to learn from it! So sweet!
I love this so much. Your language is so full of heart, and the way you looped back to the beginning created such a touching ending.
Soooooo sweet! Lovely!
Lovely message. Well done!
Beautiful story, Elyse! Nice!
ENTRY POSTED FOR ELIZABETH
Staying in the Lines
Elizabeth Meyer zu Heringdorf
214 words
For Valentine’s Day,
David wanted to do something extraordinary for his mother.
So he snuck into his room and closed the door.
When his mother went to check on him,
She found him sitting on his giant drawing pad.
David smiled and straightened his shoulders.
“Guess what!” he shouted. “I did something!”
“What did you do?” asked his mother.
“I wanted to stop being bad.
So I drew a circle around me. To stay inside it.
So I couldn’t do wrong things.
And it was really boring. But I stayed in the circle.”
David drew a deep breath and continued.
“And then I wanted to make you a valentine.
But the markers were in the bucket there and I couldn’t get them.
Then I saw the stick next to me,
and I held it out to the bucket,
And I got the bucket with the stick!
And look! I drew a valentine for you here!
Next to me here! It says MOM.
And I did everything myself.”
“Oh sweetie!” his mother said. “How good you’re being!
And I love the valentine!”
Then David lay back, kicked his heels and shouted,
“And the best thing! I stayed in the line of the circle the whole time,
And I stayed in the lines coloring the valentine!”
Oh, this tugs my momma-heart…
David worked so hard.
Thank you!!
I love committed little David and his loving gifts!
Thank you!
Oh my gosh, TOO funny! Kudos to Mom for her reaction.
Thank you!
That’s a very big effort for such a little guy! Super sweet!
Thank you!
This is so cute, Elizabeth!
Thank you!
ENTRY POSTED FOR CHRISTINE
TOP OF THE WORLD
By
Christine Alemshah
[WC: 185]
Shake, shake, shake go my chalky heart-shaped treats.
PICK ME, says the purple one.
I pop it into my mouth. Crunch!
Sweet, but it’s not really grape. They all taste the same.
Ew, the next one’s orange, my least favorite color.
GO FISH, it reads. Is that what we’re doing today?
Daddy answers like he sees inside my brain.
“Kids… Today’s a special day, a new family tradition.
I’m taking you to the top of the world.
The tallest,
most magnificent,
most amazing hill,
I tobogganed with my dad as a kid….”
Our mini-van door swishes open.
“There it is!” yells Daddy.
But when Daddy gets out, he slumps over like a slug.
“This isn’t what I remember. Sorry, kids. It’s just a lump in the ground.”
But that’s not what I see, not at all.
I shake, shake, shake my box, searching for the perfect hearts.
I shove the best ones I can find — a rainbow of yellow, green, and blue — into Daddy’s hands.
BEST DAY
MY HERO
LUV U
“Daddy, this is a MOUNTAIN! Come on, sissy, let’s go play!”
I LOVE how in the eyes of a child, special hills like that are ALWAYS the top of the world! So sweet to watch a loving father share that with his children. Well done!
Love this sweet connection between father and child and the way the mc sees this situation–not with eyes, but with the heart.
The voice in this is spot-on!
I’m a sucker for the little kids showing love! And the candy hearts are a very nice touch.
Beautiful father and child connection in this sweet story!
The Canapé Caper
By Cathy Stenquist
210 words
Pedro Porcupine loved to cook. Food was his love language.
With a pinch of this, a swirl of that and a sprinkle of love, he made the most magnificent treats.
But when he tried to share them, there was always trouble.
At school, his friends couldn’t get close enough to reach the cupcakes. Ouch!
At Squirrel’s birthday party, Pedro tripped, popping all the balloons.
Nobody felt very hungry after that.
During the family BBQ, he got tangled in the volleyball net and his canapés went flying.
On Tuesday, a Valentine’s invitation from Racoon arrived, asking him to bring a snack.
Pedro was very worried.
“There must be a better way to deliver my treats,” he thought.
The next day, while watching his favorite cooking show, “Beat Bobby Flavor,” Pedro knew exactly what he wanted to make.
“The answer was right here all the time,” he gasped, “I have everything I need. I CAN DO THIS!”
Gathering the perfect ingredients,
he sliced,
he cubed,
he stacked,
he twirled.
he spread and jabbed,
until every delicious morsel was a work of art.
Using the quills on his back, Porcupine proudly delivered his charcuterie board to the party without a hitch.
At last, all his friends could finally feel and taste his love.
This is so clever and will have great illustrations!
Thank you so much Maria!
Awesome story idea! Loved the whole concept. Great humor as well.
You made my day @girlscout72091!
Oh my goodness! That’s hilarious!
Glad I gave you a chuckle 🙂
A tantalizing treat! This funny tale of ingenuity and perseverance makes my belly shake and pokes me right in the heart. I love the description of Pedro’s food prep process. The strong, precise verbs really connect us with the action.
Thanks so much Anne!
I love imagining a porcupine chef! So many fun words and images.
@kgross2- It was bizarre that that was my first thought when I was thinking of what to write. Thanks for your kind words. 🙂
Great story! I love the Porcupine “Chef”!! 🙂
The image of Pedro walking into the party with skewered snacks on his back is an image I want to see illustrated! Thanks for your kind comment.
Pedro is such an ingenious porcupine! I would love to see this clever story illustrated!
Thank you so much. Me too!
Too cute! I love your prickly main character and how he finds the perfect solution.
Appreciate the kind words 😊
And now I’m hungry! Great, fun!
I agree. Period who doesn’t love a charcuterie board especially when it’s delivered on such cute little feet 🙂
HI Cathy, Your Big Sur roommate here. This is very clever and original. Now, I’m hungry! LOL, Kathy Halsey
Hey Kathy! Thanks for stopping by and for the kind comments.:)
What an entertaining image at the end! I laughed hard at ““Beat Bobby Flavor.”
Yay! I’m so glad you got it! I had a bit of a belly laugh myself.
This is a future picture book! Loved it.
It just may be! Thanks so much.
Cathy, I get the “point” and so did Porcupine. What a wonderful visual treat!
Love you pun 🙂 Thank you so much. This has been so fun!
This is such a fun and adorable story! Nice!
Thanks for stopping by and your kind words.
ENTRY POSTED FOR CHAYALA
Name: Chayala Nachum
Title: My Icky Sticky Valentine
Word Count: 197
St. Valentine, I hate your guts!
My hands are covered in paper cuts.
There’s Magic Marker on my face
And dried glue crumbs all over the place.
Mom’s making me write Valentines
For my whole class—of twenty-nine!
Can you blame me for being bitter?
Both my eyes are full of glitter!
To top it off, surprise, surprise,
I’m running out of art supplies!
How much can this poor kid take?
I’ve still got fifteen more to make!
No more with all this sissy stuff,
That’s it, I tell you; I’ve had enough!
If I must do Valentine’s Day
I’m gonna do it the proper way!
Nix the scissors—my teeth are fine
They’ll give the paper a cool design.
I’ve got some old gum on my shoe
It’s just the thing to use for glue.
Who needs crayons when you’ve got snot?
That sticky stuff can do a lot!
Earwax, boogers, drool and spit,
My body’s an art conduit!
And for a glitter substitute
Cookie crumbs will be a hoot!
Now, this is truly a work of art
Straight from the nose, ears, mouth, and heart.
This icky sticky Valentine
Is one I’m proud to claim as mine!
Bravo! We have real competition here. Superb story. Loved it.
Yup…
Yup…
Decorating with boogers 😆
So unexpected, hysterical and child like. Love!
A hilarious ending I didn’t see coming! I love the line “straight from the nose, ears, mouth and heart!”
OK, this is overflowing with kid appeal!
Funny! Lots of kids would get a big kick out of this!
Oh! I love the third-to-last line – what a great play on the line, “Straight from the heart”!
Delightfully disgusting. Love it!
This is hilarious! I love it!
The Best Card Maker
By Stephanie Maksymiw
Word count: 142
I am the best card maker.
I have everything to make the perfect valentine in my craft box right here.
Mine will be pretty
Mine will be bright.
Mine will be the best.
“I can’t cut mine into a heart.”
Here Sarah, take my scissors. I don’t need mine to be a fancy shape.
“I can’t color mine.”
Here Carlos, take my crayons. I can just use a pencil to draw on mine.
“I need frills.”
Here Laura, take my lace. I don’t need a fancy border on mine.
“I need sparkle.”
Here Gary, take my glitter. I don’t need to add anything to mine.
No frills, no color, no shape.
Mine is plain.
Mine is boring.
Mine is not the best.
But I’m proud to say I’m still the best card maker…
because I helped my friends make their cards great.
I love a good sharing story!
Your child showed a lovely kind of love to her friends. 🙂
I love the confidence of this child and the beautiful message at the end!
Aww, your character should be proud indeed.
There’s the Valentine spirit! Love and friendship!
How creative! An important story here.
Sweet story with a beautiful message!
DAD GETS WEIRD ON VALENTINE’S DAY
By Debbie Day
191 Words
For Valentine’s Day, Dad’s been EXTRA bizarre.
As it neared, he was acting unruly.
While neighbors were watching, he jumped on Mom’s car
belting out the words, “I love you truly!”
The very next day, he popped out of a tree
-it made Mom jump clear to the sky.
He gave her a rose, but from what I could see,
Mom had nothing but wrath in her eye.
After she blew up (as seen by the neighbors),
Dad impishly tiptoed away.
Later she thought through his Valentine’s labors
and guilt settled in the next day.
So, Mom made a goal: be more patient with Dad,
and at first, she was doing quite well.
When he burped “How I love you,” she grimaced a tad
but then walked away, rather than yell.
Then came this morning (it’s Valentine’s Day).
As she slept, Dad brought in a balloon.
After sucking out helium, I heard him say,
“Wakey wake!” like a creepy cartoon!
I thought Mom would lose it – what scene would ensue?
Would she smack that face grinning above?
Mother, I’ve never been prouder of you.
You kissed it instead – now THAT’S love.
The kid narrating it really helps sell the silliness of dad, great job!
Very visual, cringe-worthy antics from a doting husband/father! I can see this being an animated short.
Haha, this is great. I’m sure kids think all of their parents’ displays of affection are super weird.
It’s funny to think the kid is narrating! Lol!
This is so cute, Debbie! Great Valentine story!
The Valentine Tiff
by Sally Yorke-Viney
Word Count 208
The drawer was stuffed full,
What a mess! What a jumble!
Supplies started talking,
And started to grumble!
She’s sure to come soon,
Cause it’s Valentine’s Day!
So, they jostled and tousled,
Then started to say!
“I’m the best!” said red paper.
“She’ll want me!” said pink yarn.
“And my colors,” said marker
“Could brighten a barn!”
“She’ll cut!” said the scissors
“She’ll paste!” said the glue
“I’ll sparkle!” said glitter
“I know what to do!”
So, the problem began,
When each thought they were best!
So, they jostled and tousled
And got in a mess.
“You’ve bent up my corners!”
“I’m all in a knot!”
“I’m dripping!” “I’m snipping”
They fought and they fought!
Then doily peaked out
In her small lacey voice,
“You’re mistaken if you
Think you have any choice!”
“I know that you each
Think that you are supreme!
But let’s work for her,
On her Valentine Dream!”
Then they looked at each other
And nodded and smiled
“Doily’s right they agreed!”
“We must help our child!”
So, they got organized
And they quieted down
And looked for the moment
When she’d be around!
And they heard her call out
“I’ll need all my supplies!”
“Cause this Valentines heart
Is my mommy’s surprise!”
What a fun scene! I love your unique characters.
Thanks so much Allison, I appreciate your feedback
What a fun story! Great unique idea. Love the rhyming as well.
Thanks GIRLSCOUT72091! I used to be a kindergarten teacher and my days were all about rhyming whenever I could!
What a unique way to incorporate the pride theme, they are a funny cast of characters!
Thanks Katie! Well, you know red will always be bossy!! And well each one thinks they are the “cat’s meow!” The pride theme was a great challenge this year!
I love seeing the personalities of the supplies and learning what they think each Valentines Day.
Cathy, if you’re like me….my supplies are always in a mess. I truly don’t know how they get that way…. I figured they had a life of their own! haha!
An unexpected collection of characters! The description of them fighting is hilarious!
Royal, thanks so much… It’s my explanation for the mess I make whenever I create something! Ha!
Supply point of view, lol! Fun and sweet!
Ingrid, I love your feedback! Thanks so much!!
HI Sally, great POV and fun rhyme. Glad to see you and your story here. Proud of you. Kathy Halsey
Kathy!!!!! So excited for your feedback! I am putting myself out there. I am forever grateful for all of your encouragement. Thank you!
Such a fun cast of characters. A delight to read.
Thanks so much Marty, I always seem to have messy supplies, hence the poem! haha!
Cute, clever and a lot of fun! Great story, Sally!
GLITTER & GLUE
By Janna MacLean
WC 179
Today’s the day! It’s Valentine’s Day! Glue hears Glitter’s gleeful shouts.
Glue wanted nothing to do with it, he was stuck being his usual cranky cylinder self but that didn’t stop Glitter loving him. Without him, she’d be scattered about, her sparkly bits here and shiny bits there, she needed him.
Glue believed Valentine’s Day was pure silliness and questioned Glitter on why it should be celebrated.
Glitter explained all her favourite gooey parts, from secret admirers, rhyming poems, and heart-shaped everything.
Glue responded in various grunts and shrugs.
Without Glitter, he would be a dried-up smudge on paper. No one would even know he was there but maybe Glue liked it that way.
[Children crafting]
Once the chairs were up, and the lights were down, Glitter dropped a small heart-shaped note into the bin labeled GLUE STICKS.
It read:
Roses are Red
Violets are blue
How did I get so lucky
to be stuck here with you.
Glue surprised himself by spilling truth, that maybe Valentine’s Day wasn’t so bad after all, and Glitter couldn’t have been prouder.
I love your word usage! Especially playing off how glue sticks spin so he’s cranky? Fantastic!
A Glitter & Glue competition. Clever!
What a delightful curmudgeon you have created with Glue! I particularly like your wordplay, “he was stuck being his usual cranky cylinder self!”
Oh, this is so clever and sweet. Glue is an old softie after all.
Glitter loves Glue Stick! Love it!
Cute, clever, and so much fun!
Heart Aflutter
By Kelly Clasen
Word count: 212
Fat snowflakes drift down
through a heavy slate sky.
Rosie peers out the window,
releases a belly-deep sigh.
For it is Valentine’s Day,
and no bus will be stopping.
There’ll be no party. No candy.
No silly-sweet card swapping.
Feeling as gray as the sky,
Rosie pulls on warm gear
to explore this wonderland,
the biggest snow of the year.
She trudges through drifts
nearly up to her knees,
uphill and back down,
and before long she sees
a one-word ode to the day
spelled out in the snow
for not a soul to read,
no classmates to show.
Her tummy starts rumbling;
she longs for Mom’s eggs.
Rosie enters the garage
on cold-numbed, tired legs.
Before her, on the floor,
sits a bag full of seed,
and Rosie has an idea—
a flight of fancy, indeed.
She ventures back into the white,
retraces steps, packs them tight.
Now down from the pines
and out of the hollow,
the cardinals lead,
and the chickadees follow.
Crows caw out their greeting;
sparrows answer in tweeting.
Rosie’s heart’s swiftly beating
and thrilling with pride
at nature’s splendor alive
on the snowy hillside.
In scarlet, brown, and ink
are the birds who took wing,
spelling out L-O-V-E for the girl
whose gift made them sing!
A heartfelt Valentine homage to nature’s wonders. I love “Crows caw out their greeting;/sparrows answer in tweeting.”
Thank you, Anne. I thoroughly enjoyed your story, as well.
You really brought the emotion out, and I love her creativity in making a valentine to share with the birds.
I love that the character makes lemonade out of lemons. Heartfelt and tender.
Thank you for the kind feedback!
Strong, descriptive verbs throughout. I love the different birds you include!
What a lovely image!
I got cold reading this, and then all warm and fuzzy!
Love this so much! Especially “the belly-deep sigh.” Well done!
Beautiful sweet story! Nice!
LITTLE THINGS
By: Molly Ippolito
Word Count: 208
I still hear the little whispers…
She looks so sick!
Why is her Grandma…bald?
I know it’s Grandparent’s Day, but should she really be here if she can’t walk?
I want to erase those little memories.
But, they’re imprinted in my brain like fossils from an ancient time.
Mrs. Hanson’s voice cuts through my memory.
“…and I want you to invite the person you’re most proud of to our Valentine party!”
On the walk home, I think of Gram.
Despite how frail and sick she felt, Gram always showed up.
And for that, I love her so much.
But, I can’t escape my thoughts.
What if the whispers start again?
If Gram weren’t so sick I wouldn’t feel so embarrassed.
Am I really…proud of her?
My pride feels little. My guilt feels big.
It feels like Cupid’s arrow pierced straight through my heart.
I open the back door and to my surprise, there’s Gram!
I see her wrinkled smile.
I feel the soft glow in her eyes.
I hear her tender words.
“My sweet girl! I love you oh so well!”
In this little moment my heart fills up, my doubts forgotten.
And I’m bursting with pride to call Gram mine.
“Gram! Are you busy this Valentine’s Day?”
Fantastic descriptive language. You pulled me right into this story and I felt the emotion that this girl was going through. Great storytelling.
Thanks so much for the kind words!
Such a thoughtful and heartfelt exploration of pride and doubt—and how love wins the day.
Yes! So glad that message was clear…thanks so much for taking the time to read and leave feedback! Good luck!
Beautifully written! The way we follow her worries is so well done.
Thank you! For once my experiences as a worrier have been helpful, haha! I appreciate the kind words!
A believable dip into the emotions of a little girl struggling to navigate her way through what other people think! Excellent craftsmanship!
Thanks so much for reading and leaving kind words! I really appreciate it!
This is simply lovely. Well done!
Thank you so much! Good luck to you!
Choke, sniffle…beautiful!
Thank you so much! ❤
Molly what a story so full of love! Our grams will always be there smiling at us, even if only in our hearts!
Thank you so much! You’re absolutely right – they are forever with us! 🙂 ❤
awww this is so special.
Thank you! ❤
Beautiful heartwarming story! Rich and full of emotion!
VERONICA’S SURPRISE
By: Janel Caverly
Word Count: 208
Veronica popped a chocolate in her mouth – orange surprise!
Everyone was excited for Valentine’s Day!
While Veronica’s sister wrote love poems, Veronica watched her Mother beam with pride.
“I want to write something special too,” Veronica said.
“Just try,” her sister said.
Veronica tried another chocolate – cherry surprise!
When her brother made lacy cards, Veronica heard Grandma boast, “You’re my little Valentine.”
“I want to make something special too,” Veronica said.
“Just think,” her brother said.
Veronica thought she’d try another chocolate – strawberry surprise!
Then she remembered.
Last year, her teacher brought a big yummy Valentine’s heart to school. It was a surprise! Cupcakes – covered in frosting.
Cupcakes!
Veronica looked for the supplies.
But no cupcake pan.
Maybe just cake?
But the box said BAKE.
Veronica couldn’t bake without help.
She wanted this to be a surprise.
She ate another chocolate – cake surprise!
That’s it!
She moved the chocolates together to form letters.
HAPPY VALE …
Not enough.
She moved the chocolates again.
“Just right,” she said and covered them in frosting.
“Surprise! Happy Valentine’s Day!”
“You mean Happy V day,” her brother said.
“Happy Veronica Day?” her sister joked.
“Happy Valentine’s Day,” her mother laughed.
“Spells YUM to me,” her Grandma said, and Veronica smiled with pride.
A fun look into this little family’s Valentine celebrations! I especially liked: “Spells YUM to me.” Grandma has the right idea!
I love your determined main character!
Good for Gram, she sees the heart of the matter!
I love Veronica’s determination and creativity! Cute story!
My Quiet Valentine
By
Amanda Sherlock
Word count: 214
It’s Valentine’s Day. My friends share cards at the playground, but not with Jeff. Jeff is bigger than us, but he can’t talk. He sits in the sandbox and draws circles in the sand with his finger. My friends point and laugh.
Jeff’s mom looks over at us and the corners of her mouth turn down. I feel a pain in my tummy and curl my chin to my chest to try to make it stop.
Jeff flaps his hands. My friends flap their hands and laugh louder. The pain in my tummy is a burning fire getting bigger and bigger. My hands form into balls. I don’t like how I feel when we laugh at Jeff, but I don’t say anything. I’m scared my friends won’t like me. Then I might be like Jeff with no friends.
Frank says, “let’s give Jeff a card that says: ‘Nobody wants to be your valentine’”. Everyone laughs, except me. My body shakes. The fire is too hot. I cannot hold it in anymore.
“No!” I shout.
I run over to Jeff’s mom. “Happy Valentines’ Day, Mrs. Thompson.”
I turn to Jeff. The tummy pain is gone. A better feeling fills up my chest.
“Jeff, will you be my Valentine?”
Jeff pats the sand next to him.
Wonderful idea for a Valentine story! It is a great story for all children to learn from. Thanks for creating I hope you can expand this into a picture book story after contest.
thank you so much!
What a great message, and I like how you showed how hard it is for kids to face their fears of being friendless but how it’s worth it.
thank you!
A great story of the courage it takes to stand up against those in the wrong, especially when they are your friends! You did an excellent job describing the inner emotions and turmoil the main character was feeling.
thank you!
I’m SO PROUD of your character. You did a wonderful job of making me feel their emotions.
thank you!
Everyone deserves a true friend for Valentines. Very touching.
thank you!
Beautiful story with a wonderful message!
thank you so much!
Who’s Ana?
By Ellie Langford
213 Words
“Kitty, what are you sitting on?”
Katrina coaxed the kitten into moving and picked up a red envelope.
“Abuela” was written outside. Inside was a beautiful drawing of a girl giving her grandma a bouquet. It was signed Ana.
“Oh, no!” said Katrina. “Valentine’s Day is only two days away! Somebody lost this and wants it back.”
Katrina looked around. Nobody named Ana lived near here.
“Mom, someone lost a pretty valentine they made for their grandma. It’s signed Ana.
“What are you going to do with it?”
“Tomorrow at school, I’ll ask if anybody knows Ana.”
Before school, Katrina asked if anyone knew someone named Ana. They all said, “No.”
Katrina rushed into the classroom. On Lily’s desk, she saw the start of a picture that reminded her of the picture in the envelope.
Katrina whispered, “Lily, meet me at recess.”
At recess, Katrina handed Lily the envelope.
“Grandma’s valentine! Oh, thank you! I’m quickly making another one, but it’s not as good.”
“Why is it signed Ana?”
“My real name is Liliana; like my grandma’s. Tomorrow, Grandma will say, ‘Ana, eres mi enamorado y te amo mucho.’ – You are my valentine and I love you very much.”
“I’m proud to be Ana, Grandma’s valentine.”
Katrina smiled, happy she solved the mystery.
Neat! I love the little mystery!
Wow! Pulling off a mystery in so few words is an amazing feat! I especially like the use of Spanish.
My daughter Ana will love this one especially!
Aww, what a sweet little mystery, solved just in time for Valentine’s day!
Such a sweet Valentine mystery! Wonderful!
PRINCE OF THE PRIDE
By: Jessica Seitz
Word count: 203
Leo the Lion’s the prince of the pride.
Since birth, not one wish of this cub’s been denied.
To meet other creatures, our prince did not deign,
Preferring his castle where one day he’d reign.
On Valentine’s morning, he waited to see
The cards and the gifts from his subjects-to-be.
He looked at the kingdom and saw something grim –
The animals trading their cards without him!
So certain was Leo of their admiration,
He pawed at his mane with increasing frustration.
In anger, he settled to go for a walk
And stumbled upon an unfortunate hawk.
Ms. Hawk’s little wing had been caught in a net.
Concern then made Leo forget his upset.
He clawed at the net, which he chewed with his teeth
And helped poor Ms. Hawk to escape underneath.
Our prince’s heart swelled after she had been freed,
And Hawk flew around spreading news of his deed.
When Leo got home, he just roared with delight
For Valentine’s flowers and cards filled his sight!
From then on, Prince Leo made cards for new friends
(For this was his way of now making amends).
And afterwards, Leo took time to reflect
How one day he’d be a good king they’d respect.
I love the ending – showing that we are witnessing the transition of a spoiled prince to a good king! Well done!
Great job showing character growth, and all inside fun rhymes.
There’s a big lesson in this little story!
Oh I love this! I’ll have to share it with my son Leo.
A gorgeous modern fable in verse! I love the thoughtful rhymes like deign/reign, admiration/frustration, and reflect/respect.
I love this, and all the rhymes. Adorable story with a great message! Nice!
CUPID’S BIG DAY
by Marty Bellis
203wc
Cupid plopped into his chair. What a day!
His wings ached from the miles he’d flown.
HIs bow arm throbbed.
He’d shot a record number of arrows, replenishing his supply over and over again.
He just hoped he’d spread enough love around the planet to make a difference.
It was a task dear to his heart, even though it left him exhausted.
He flipped on the tv just as the news came on.
The announcer was saying, “Newsflash. A refreshing spirit of cooperation and goodwill seems to have descended on everyone today!
Bullies in schools across the land were observed handing out Valentines and kindly assisting teachers and classmates.
Dogs, cats, birds, and mice, were seen playing peacefully together. No hissing, growling, biting, chasing, scratching or snatching!
Most amazing of all, there were no reports of squabbles among brothers and sisters!
Toys were shared willingly, without bickering or grumpiness.
Rather than harsh sounds, laughter was heard. In place of thoughtless behavior, good deeds prevailed.
Love has definitely taken over our world!”
The news continued, but Cupid no longer heard.
He was fast asleep, a proud smile on his face.
His work was done………
at least until the effects of those arrows wore off.
I really enjoyed reading this story. I definitely could visualize this as a wonderful picture book.
Thanks for reading!
Wow, Marty! I LOVE seeing Cupid after his big day! Highly visual. It’s good to see his efforts made a difference. I especially like “Most amazing of all, there were no reports of squabbles among brothers and sisters!” So very clever!
Thanks for your comments, Royal!
That was my favorite line, too! It made me laugh.
Touching and sweet to start, and funny at the end! Great combo!
Thanks for reading, Ingrid!
Nice work, Cupid! He should definitely be proud of the love he spread.
Thanks for your comments, Allison!
Super cute idea for a story. Well done!
Thank you, Amanda!
This is the love story the world needs right now.
So true!
The newsflash was a fun surprise, and the ending felt sweet and satisfying. Love it!
So happy you enjoyed it. Thanks for your comments.
Such a sweet story, Marty! I can feel Cupid’s satisfaction over a job well done with a well-deserved rest. Absolutely love your ending, too! Congratulations on an awesome story!
This is adorable, Marty!
A Match Made in Socks.
By Laura Heath
Word Count: 214
There was nothing inside Olive’s kennel to chew, yet pretty, paper heart garlands dangled outside. Delicious. Unreachable. Not as good as socks. But they had their merits, crunchy and tasty.
The animal shelter was busy with people looking to find their Valentine’s Day match.
Tail twitching, Olive stretched her tongue through the bars, reaching for a heart. The humans cooed at the other puppies; the try-hards who were begging on cue. No one, from that two-legged rabble, looked like anyone Olive would want to take on. Olive was picky and those people wore polyester sports socks. Some were even sockless! Tasteless.
She tried again and grasped the heart in her teeth!.
‘Hey look at this one!’ squeaked a voice.
Olive spotted the socks first. Almost pure cotton, knee length, and with satiny ribbons that would feel fantastic against her teeth. Whiffy, with the right amount of sweat, and a hint of lemon washing powder. Delectable. Olive was in love. She would have to try. Hard.
Olive put the heart onto the tip of her nose and put her nose through the bars towards the owner of the socks.
‘Mum, she’s giving me a heart!’ This is the puppy I want.’
‘Success,’ thought Olive, tail wagging proudly, anticipating all the appetizing socks that lay ahead.
I love this premise–and the title! How fun.
Cute idea and Olive is a fun character. You’ve given her lots of personality.
The inner voice of Olive was DELIGHTFUL! Hilarious in her judgement of the “try-hards,” which she herself became when she found the match she really wanted!
Oh my goodness, I love Olive’s voice and sock connoisseurness, she knows what she wants and how to go after it.
Funny …and a bit subversive!
Too funny! I love Olive’s refined palate for socks.
Cute, hilarious, and a lot of fun! I love the description of the perfect socks!
Momma’s Smile
By Amber Hendricks
WC: 213
“There!” Ruby pressed on the final sticker and admired her work. Fourteen red and pink hearts sparkled back at her.
“What beautiful valentines, Ruby.” Momma smiled but her eyes were drawn and tired. Ruby missed the way Momma’s smile used to light up her entire face. “And what an equally beautiful mess!”
“Don’t worry, Momma,” said Ruby as an idea sparked to life. “I’ll clean everything up.”
Ruby carefully gathered her scraps and supplies and took them to her room.
Choosing her favorite paper, she snipped and stapled.
Glittered and glued.
She used all of her very best stickers.
Sticking out her tongue, Ruby painted each letter with care.
Finished! She tucked her creation out of sight.
The next morning, Ruby woke early.
Tiptoeing to the kitchen, Ruby swept and scrubbed. (Momma’s job was harder than she thought.)
She arranged cookies on a plate and poured a big glass of OJ. (She only spilled a little.)
Finally, she taped Momma’s valentine to the fridge. In big bold letters it read I LOVE YOU, MOM.
Everything was ready just in time.
“Ruby,” Momma whispered as she wrapped her in a hug. “You did all of this for me?”
Ruby nodded beaming with pride, and this time when Momma smiled, it lit up the room.
Love this! Very sweet. Nice to read a story about ideas of helping others, especially mothers! lol Great job
Thank you so much!
I LOVE Ruby doing all she can to make her Momma smile! I particularly LOVED the side commentary in parentheses (Momma’s job was harder than she thought / She only spilled a little)! Excellent!
What a lovely daughter and a very lucky mom! Precious!
I can just feel Ruby’s determination as she sticks out her tongue and gets her Valentine’s surprise ready. Well done!
This is so beautiful! I love the way Ruby shows her love and appreciation for her mother!
The Perfect Valentine
by Kimberly Shrack
207 words
“It’s Valentine’s!”
said Mrs. Hughes.
“And so I’d like
for you to choose
a person who you
love real hard
to make an extra
special card.”
Cecilia chose her
cousin Sal
and Pablo chose
his closest pal
Patricia who
sat next to Brad,
who chose Brianne,
who chose her dad.
And as for me,
I chose someone
who truly cannot
be outdone.
The brightest bulb,
A-plus! First rate!
The pride of
P.S. 28.
The smartest kid
in all the school.
The fastest in the
swimming pool.
A star in art
and music class,
with talent no one
can surpass.
The bravest kid
in the whole grade
who’s super tough
and not afraid
of roller coasters,
snakes or sharks,
of monsters, bugs,
even the dark.
“Time for lunch!”
Mrs. Hughes said.
“So take your finished
cards and spread
them out to dry
on that shelf next
to all our other
art projects.”
Before I head on
out the door,
I gaze upon
my card once more.
It’s perfect as
I knew it’d be
because this one’s
addressed to me.
“You shouldn’t have!”
I tell myself
and place the card
up on the shelf
with all the other
Valentines
(that just aren’t quite
as good as mine).
Ha! SO much pride here! 🙂 Love the ending.
Thank you! Had a ton of fun writing this one.
Very clever Kimberly! Self-confidence is important 🙂 I especially love the line “you shouldn’t have!” That cracked me up!
Thank you! I actually wrote that last quatrain first, cracked myself up and then wrote the rest of the story around it. 🙂
Haha! Oh YES! I LOVE this! There is nothing finer than teaching children to appreciate themselves! And the closing stanza is GENIUS!
This made me laugh out loud. The confidence and pride was clear and fun.
I laughed out loud! Love it! 😂
Haha, I just love this. Kids need to be proud of themselves too, right?
ha! love the confidence! Self love is very important.
Wonderful rhyming and such a surprise! I love it!
This is so cute! Self love! I love it!
Part of what makes this so good is that the narrator goes on for three stanzas about how wonderful the recipient of the Valentine is – SO much pride in her/himself! And the title plays off of the perfection of the card and the (perceived!) perfection of the narrator. That’s great, too!
Miss Frog and Mister Turtle
By Sharon McCarthy
Word Count 214
Tomorrow was Valentine’s Day, and Miss Frog didn’t have anything to give, so she started to hop to help her think.
Her best friend, Mister Turtle, shuffled along the road. “What’s up, Miss Frog?”
“Thinking of what to give for Valentine’s Day.”
“Oh, really? Who’s your Valentine?”
“Well, I don’t know? I guess I’ll have to hop twice as much now, to think of that too!”
“Do you mind if I keep you company, darling?”
“That would be lovely!”
Miss Frog hopped all day, and Mister Turtle watched with a mischievous smile.
“You are thinking awful hard, Miss Frog. Come rest on my shell and tell me your thoughts.”
“You are too kind, Mister Turtle.”
Miss Frog stopped hopping and settled on Mister Tuttle’s shell. Yet, she was so tired that she fell asleep.
The next day was Valentine’s Day, and Miss Frog woke in a frenzy.
“What’s the matter Miss Frog?”
“It’s Valentine’s Day, and I don’t have a Valentine or anything to give!”
Mister Turtle turned his head towards Miss Frog and stared with a mischievous smile.
“Of course! Mister Turtle, will you be my Valentine? So sorry, I have nothing to give.”
“Miss Frog, no need to be so proud! You know that your friendship is the best gift for me!”
I love that Miss Frog feels the need to hop in order to think! And that she has to hop twice as much when presented with something else to think about.
That is an adorable friendship, and I love that moving helps her think – it helps me think too.
Great job showing their personalities!
Aww, I love this match!
A story of a friendship discovered and appreciated by both! So sweet!
I can relate to Miss Frog moving around to help her think. Adorable story. I love the last line. Friendship is a beautiful gift!
The Trees of the Girl Who Raised Bees by B.J. Genovese
Word count 206
I wanted to do something special one year –
a thing that would give me a grin ear to ear.
A thing that would make me feel ever so proud
but the kind of a proud that’s not spoken out loud.
I took all the money I earned raising bees
and bought 14 saplings of conifer trees.
I asked my Aunt Gina to drive me to town
to the part of our town always with a sad frown.
It was Valentine’s Day, on my birthday of 10.
And I did what I’d dreamed of, and written in pen:
I planted, I watered, I stood them up tall
with a stick on each side so that they wouldn’t fall.
I tied them with ribbons, and a note you could see:
“I’m new to your ‘hood, would you take care of me?”
And every so often, I’d check on their growth
and they’d check on me – for grown tall had we both.
I now bring my children to see 14 trees
and proud I stand with them and say it was me
who planted these babies – oh so long ago
and we gaze and we wonder at how a thing grows.
I love the main character’s relationship with nature! An excellent reminder of the importance of tree-planting.
Lovely celebration of the importance of trees no matter where you are.
There’s a lot of love in this story!
What a beautiful gift that lasts longer than one short holiday!
Beautiful nature love story! It reminds me of the White Pine my granddaughter gave me when she was in preschool. It’s over twenty years old now!
Mailbirds: Valentine’s Day
“I love delivering the mail
on Valentine’s,” chirped Abby Quail,
“Of all the holidays you send
a card or letter to a friend,
it’s Valentine’s–”
“You wish would end!”
her manager, C. E. Owl, grinned,
“I’ll make you wish today was done!
Deliver every last one!!”
“That Owl’s too proud of work to love
another bird,” cooed Cindy Dove,
assisting Abby with a stack
of cards and letters for her sack.
“You look like you could use one more,”
the Owl flung it to the floor,
but Abby flashed her wing below
and grabbed it, “Happy to do so!”
Her wings set sail across the sky,
her bag becoming lighter by
the hour until she had but one,
the one the Owl had given. Whoosh!
A storm upended Abby Quail,
unleashing rain and wind and hail!
A pitter-patter, ping and pelt!
Before poor Abby fell, she felt
the wing of C. E. Owl below.
He grabbed her after one last blow.
She roused within the Owl’s roost,
“I need to finish–”
“There’s no use,”
replied the Owl, “You need to rest.
Besides, you’re at the right address.
Forgive me, I apologize.
My pride was bigger than my eyes.
Because of that, I failed to see
that final piece was mailed to me.”
I love your air mail crew! Such creative characters!
A cute, bouncing rhyme. Great job!
C.E.Owl! It took me a moment to get it, great job!
This was so fun! I love “pitter-patter, ping and pelt!” and your hardworking mail carrier dove.
Loved CE Owl and all the fun with mail-birds!
Adorable story and a lot of fun to read!
“A pitter-patter, ping and pelt” – great alliteration and and onomatopoeia, and I also love the back-to-back use of fell and felt. Fun to read!
The Perfect Card
by Keely Leim
Word Count: 212
The Valentine’s card rack is packed with red envelopes. I rotate it, hoping to find a card my sister Salem will love. If she were here, she’d use her hands to sign “Music. Music. Music.” Salem loves musical cards the most.
I find a musical Toy Story card that says “I love you ‘To Infinity and Beyond!’”
I find a card with a droopy-eyed dog holding a goofy guitar and singing, “You Ain’t Nothin’ but a Hound Dog.”
Finally at the top of the rack I see a bunch of big eyes and orange beaks peeking down at me from a barnyard card. When I open it, “The Chicken Dance” song blares through the store. I smile.
I picture helping Salem open it. I see her close her eyes and flap her arms and clap her hands and dance wildly with joy. And I picture dancing with her.
Not everyone understands happiness like Salem’s. Sometimes people laugh when she moves like that. Maybe they don’t have that kind of joy deep inside—the kind that spills over the edges.
Even though Salem won’t be able to read my words, I pull out her favorite colored marker and write:
Dear Salem,
Happy Valentine’s Day!
I’m proud to be your chicken-dancing brother.
Love, Silas
Such a thoughtful, caring brother. Really tugs at the heartstrings!
Oh, thank you so much!
I love this beautifully inclusive story of a brother’s love for his sister! Salem and Silas are sweet names!
Hi, Royal! Thanks so much for your feedback. It helps to have a mom’s eye view of these two together. Special real life bond inspired this story. You give great feedback throughout your comments. Clearly have some wonderful editorial skills. Thanks for participating in the contest!
Aww… beautiful descriptions and showing sibling love!
Thank you, Katie! It’s easy to be inspired by my kids’ love for one another. I appreciate your comment!
My heart heart strings have been thoroughly plucked! Beautifully done!
Awww, thanks, Ingrid! So grateful for your kind feedback.
May we all have the same joy inside that Salem does–thank you for the reminder!
Allison! Thanks so much for your thoughtful comment here (and all through these stories). You have the rare ability to tell a story well and to enter into others’ stories. Thank you for that generosity. I do wish Salem had more joyful days. When she does have these moments, it often carries us through the more difficult ones. I definitely need extra measures of her type of joy. It is easy to be inspired by these kids in my life.
Beautiful emotional story! I love your description of Salem’s joy. “–the kind that spills over the edges.” Nice!
Valentine’s Day is for Everyone 185 words
Janet Scratchley
Valentine’s Day is coming. Everyone is making hearts and cards and special treats.
Everyone except me.
My body doesn’t work the way I want it to so I can’t make those Valentines.
At least not the way they do it.
They call it cerebral palsy. I can’t control the way my body moves and it’s hard for me to talk.
But inside I’m just like you. I like to have fun with my friends.
II want to make a valentine for my best friend, Ellis. I can do it a different way.
I have special scissors to cut out a big pink heart.
I have a cuff on my hand to hold a red marker.
I sprinkle glitter and it goes everywhere! (Just like everyone else!d.)
When I give Ellis her Valentine, her smile lights up her face and she hugs me.
She says, “Thank you, Marissa! I love it!”
She hangs it up for everyone to see.
I may do things a little differently, but I can make a Valentine for my friend.
I can make her feel special.
I can be ME!
I love Marissa’s inner voice that teaches us valuable lessons of inclusion! A tender tale!
Great job getting such a vibrant voice for Marissa, and I love the line about everyone’s glitter getting everywhere… it’s so true.
I’m so happy Marissa has found a way to express herself!
This is amazing! Well done, Marissa–and Janet!
Beautiful touching story! I love this!
ENTRY POSTED FOR Melissa Rafson Friedman
Valentine’s in the Jungle (214 words)
February 10:
The jungle is getting ready for Valentine’s Day. Everyone is pulling names to give surprise gifts. I plunge my yellow beak in the coconut shell and pull out…Sandy Sloth’s name. She’s always sleeping and rarely leaves her treehouse. What do you give someone like that?”
February 11:
My brother pulled Glinda Gecko. He’s giving her crickets and flies. She’ll gobble them up! Would Sandy like insects? …Nah too crawly.
February 12:
My sister pulled Casey Capybara. She’s giving him a raft to float on because he loves water. Would Sandy like a raft?…Nah too wet.
February 13:
Us toucans love tag! Maybe play a game? …Nah, too fast.
What would a sloth enjoy?
I hear parrots and macaws singing— I got it!
February 14:
I fly to Sandy’s treehouse, so she doesn’t have to come down. I sing her a peaceful song to lull her to sleep. A smile slowly stretches across her face. Her eyes widen with surprise!
“I love music!” Sandy exclaims. “Best Valentine surprise yet!”
My feathers perk up with pride for solving this dilemma. Who knew giving a Valentine would make me feel good too! I’m glad I didn’t give up, but WHEW, I’m tired! I’ll just keep Sandy company and take a little snooze too. ZZZ!
I LOVE this amazing jungle setting – with such a beautiful array of animal characters! I love how they share a nap together at the end! So sweet!
Cute problem solving! Love the ending.
Music is terrific, but think a nap is a WONDERFUL gift! 😂
Oh haha, I love the ending!
This is adorable. I love the discovery that giving brings as much joy as getting! Nice!
THE LOVESICK GROUNDHOG
by Debra Daugherty
214 Words
Every February 2nd, Groundhog played a game. Pop out of his burrow, see his shadow, pop back in for six more weeks of winter. If no shadow, stay up and enjoy an early Spring.
This year, Groundhog had a new plan. “I’m going to stay up, shadow or not, and spend Valentine’s Day with Ginny.”
He met Ginny Groundhog last Fall before hibernating. He was instantly smitten, but too timid to tell her how he felt.
On the appointed day, Groundhog climbed out of his home. “Today I tell Ginny I love her.”
Groundhog gathered raspberries and clover and sat on a log by Ginny’s burrow. With pride in his voice, he said, “I will not be shy. I will impress Ginny with my gifts, and she will be my girlfriend.”
The lovesick groundhog waited all day, but Ginny never showed. “I must have just missed her.”
Groundhog burrowed in some leaves and fell asleep. Six weeks later, a noise woke him. “It’s Ginny!”
He shouted down the hole, “I love you. Will you be my girlfriend?”
“Yes, I would love to be your girlfriend,” a soft voice answered.
Groundhog’s eyes popped when a bunny hopped out of the burrow.
The bunny munched on the clover in Groundhog’s paws. “I thought you’d never ask.”
Oh my! Poor patient Groundhog! I would love to see what happens next with his unexpected bunny girlfriend!
Oh, whoops!
This is such a fun story that opens up questions perfect for a sequel. did he mistake a bunny for a groundhog last year with his poor eyesight or did he make a mistake about which burrow to sit by?
Oh my, always be sure to whom your declaring your love! I hope it works out!
Haha, I love the surprise ending!
ENTRY POSTED FOR CARMEN
Carmen Castillo Gilbert, PhD
ROSAS FOR SEÑOR PÉREZ
(196 words)
Valentina helped her Mami at their flower shop. She snipped dead leaves off stems, tied cintas on vases, and when they made deliveries, she walked the orders to their customers’ puertas.
Today was Valentine’s Day. Her favorite holiday! Valentina glanced out the shop window. She saw Señor Pérez, their neighbor, looking sad. People said that when they welcomed him to their street, he growled. And when a kid’s bola rolled into his yard, he yelled. And when perritos ran up to him wagging their tails, he didn’t even pet them! He often stood by his window and scowled at the world.
What could she do to cheer him up today? Bing! Great idea!
Valentina pulled rosas out of a bucket and tied cintas around them. When she was done, she nodded and smiled.
She raced next door. Straightening her shoulders and holding her head high, she rang the doorbell. Señor Pérez opened his puerta.
“Rosas for you, from me, Señor Pérez.” she said.
At tear rolled down his face.
“Rosas are my favorite flowers,” he said.
The corners of his mouth turned up for the first time in a long time and his smile matched Valentina’s.
A sweet story! A great reminder that sometimes all people need is a simple act of kindness! I love the Spanish throughout!
True love like this always brings a smile, and often a tear as well. 💕
The beginning of a new friendship, how sweet!
Valentina was really paying attention; I’m so glad she got that coveted smile out of Senor Perez.
ENTRY POSTED FOR BEKAH
Get Well Soon, Mrs. Love
Rebekah Hoeft
214 words
“Mrs. Love shouldn’t miss our party AND presents,” Ingrid said indignanty.
Omar agreed. “We worked hard on her gifts. Could you deliver them?”
Everyone looked at me, knowing I lived on our teacher’s street. I felt nervous but to cheer her up, I agreed.
On the way, I practiced the poem I’d written. I knocked, holding out the box of gifts when she tiredly opened the door.
Shyly I stammered, “…H-h-happy Valentine’s Day.
Bertha and Bree made a card with pink beads.
Eve shaped a heart for your birds with some seeds.
Omar and Oak wrote a Valentine’s joke.
Ume’s heart sculpture was great (till it broke).
Rue drew a lovebug so cute and so weird.
Von’s homemade chocolate has – GASP! – disappeared.
Anamaria recorded a song.
Lex penned a letter but spelled your name wrong.
Elle made a crown with those jewels that stick.
Neal’s heart is HEAVY with paint smeared on thick.
Tula thought tulips would be your delight.
Ingrid felt strongly that roses were right.
None of us like that you’re out with the flu.
Each of our presents say we sure love you!
Mrs. Love beamed. “I’ve never been more happy to be your teacher. Thank you.”
She waved and I walked away, bursting with pride that we’d made her smile.
Such a FANTASTIC acrostic poem! I love the different names and various gifts! Such considerate students!
I love this, Bekah! Was it inspired by your own classroom?? I imagine you’re good at inspiring thoughtfulness in your students!
Golly, as a teacher you sure got me on this one!
Oh! I’d be delighted to get this stack of Valentines! So sweet of this class to think of their teacher.
I teach a bunch of sweet kindergarten kods who would definitely plot to cheer up a teacher. Kids are the sweetest!
A perfect poem for the time of Covid! The acrostic is really a great organizational method for the poem, and I particularly like the internal rhyme in the line, “Omar and Oak wrote a Valentine’s joke.” Lots of great kids’ names, too!
Finding names for a bit of alliteration or rhyme was fun!
ENTRY POSTED FOR MARTY
A Valentine for You
By Marty Findley
64 words
Some pretty paper-
pink and red
A strip of lace
A spool of thread
Some heart-shaped stickers
Markers, glue
To make a Valentine for you!
The scissors snip
The glue glops out
The markers draw
hearts all about
A gemstone here
Some glitter there
A valentine
that says, “I care.”
I write some special
words inside
It’s great! My heart is filled with pride!
I love the simple words that evoke the feelings of crafting a valentine by hand! Well done!
Great job of describing how giving love is also a great way to get a different kind of joy!
It sounds like a masterpiece!
Marty succinct and sweet, with pride inside! Great rhyming!
Thanks for doing this Susanna–it’s always so much fun!
CUPID, A NEW GENERATION
By Linda Staszak
188 words
Candies and hearts and roses flew through the air.
“My glasses are lost,” thundered Papa Cupid. “I need them–it’s Valentine’s Day.”
Crunch!
“Noooo!” he wailed.
Sprinkles floated from the kitchen as Mama Cupid handed him his bow and arrows. “You’d better go practice.”
Cupid scowled and stomped out the door.
He squinted to see the target, let the first arrow fly and…
Splash!
He rubbed his eyes, let another arrow go and…
“Skreeeeeee!”
Cupid peeked with one eye, then the other and tried again…
“Roooaaaaarrrrrrr!”
“Oops, sorry,” Cupid muttered, and he trudged home.
“I guess Valentine’s Day is cancelled,” he moaned.
Little Candi Cupid tiptoed into the room and fluttered her wings.
“I can do it,” she whispered.
Cupid raised an eyebrow.
“I’ve gone with you for years,” Candi blurted. “I know about your list. I know to take extra arrows for surprises. I’m a good shot, and it IS the family business.”
Cupid grinned and hugged his daughter.
“Take this,” he said handing her the official Valentine Bow.
As a beaming Candi flew off, Papa and Mama Cupid wiped away tears.
“That’s our daughter,” they sniffled.
Candi is the PERFECT name for a young Cupid taking over the family Valentine business! I would love to see Candi on her adventure of her first Valentine’s Day in charge!
Love that they pass the love on down through the family!
Such a unique take on cupids work. I especially liked the way you describe papa not being able to aim.
You can do it, Candi! Mama and Papa are proud.
ENTRY POSTED FOR MARTY
A Valentine for Her
By Marty Findley
Entry #2
Snip, snip! Glop…, glop…
P r e s s, p r e s s… There!!
Best valentine ever!
I can’t wait to share.
It makes me smile to think
I made it on my own.
“Can we please take it now?”
I feel I’m really grown.
Along the way to see her
I’m bouncing up and down
So soon we’re there and hurry
To find her in her gown.
We walk down the loooong hallway
With doors on either side
We find her room at last
And tiptoe to her side.
There they are together!
Mom is smiling wide.
She looks at me with loving eyes
And pulls the quilt aside.
My very own new baby!
I’m proud that she is mine.
Wrapped in a loving blanket
“Here’s your valentine!”
It’s beautiful,” Mom whispers.
“Your heart shines there within.”
I feel all warm and cosy
And proud inside my skin.
I love the line “My very own new baby!” Such a sweet new sibling story.
This. Made. Me. SO. Happy!