Guess what?
Roses are red
Violets are blue
Valentinies rock
And so do YOU!
It’s time for. . .
The 8th 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 skeptical! They can be skeptical in a good way or a bad way. They can be skeptical about themselves, or skeptical of someone else. They can be skeptical of a situation, event, occurrence, behavior, or performance, 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 skeptical (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 Tuesday February 14th by 11:59 PM Eastern. There will be no regularly scheduled posts for the duration of the contest (Tuesday Debut 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 using the handy CONTACT button in the menu above and I’ll post it for you. If you do so, please copy and paste your entry into the body of the email and include your title, byline (that’s you – who it’s written by), and word count. NO ATTACHMENTS (they will not be opened!)
The Judging: over the following days, my lovely assistants and I will narrow down the entrants to around 12 top choices depending on number and quality of entries which will be posted here and voted on for a winner as soon as we can get them up. The winners and Honorable Mentions will be announced a few days after the vote. (I’m not even going to try to hazard a guess on exact dates!)
Judging criteria will include:
- Kid-appeal/Kid-friendliness – remember, this is a story for kids!
- Creativity in using skepticism, and success in making us feel the skepticism! Skepticism must be central to the story line, not just mentioned briefly in passing in a story about something else entirely.
- 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: Oh! What wonderful prizes!!!!!
⭐️ Rhyme & Meter Self Study Course – Renee LaTulippe Renée M. LaTulippe is the author of The Crab Ballet (Cameron Kids/Abrams, 2022) and Limelight: Theater Poems to Perform (Charlesbridge, 2024) and has poems published in many anthologies including No World Too Big, Night Wishes, School People, National Geographic’s The Poetry of US, One Minute Till Bedtime, Poems Are Teachers, ThankU: Poems of Gratitude, and A World Full of Poems.
⭐️ Free Ticket #1 to Writing Picture Books With Heart Webinar – Rosie Pova
This webinar will explore the elements that give stories that edge, and the power to tug at the reader’s heartstrings, so that they stay with the reader long after they’ve closed the book.
The webinar will offer tips and practical advice on how to write stories with heart as we use mentor texts and pinpoint the right ingredients of a heartfelt story. A handout PDF is included, and it will provide a long list of titles to use as additional mentor texts.
⭐️ Free Ticket #2 to Writing Picture Books With Heart Webinar – Rosie Pova
This webinar will explore the elements that give stories that edge, and the power to tug at the reader’s heartstrings, so that they stay with the reader long after they’ve closed the book.
The webinar will offer tips and practical advice on how to write stories with heart as we use mentor texts and pinpoint the right ingredients of a heartfelt story. A handout PDF is included, and it will provide a long list of titles to use as additional mentor texts.
Rosie Pova is the author of IF I WEREN’T WITH YOU (Spork, April 2017), SARAH’S SONG (Spork, September 2017), SUNDAY RAIN (Lantana Publishing, March 2021), THE SCHOOL OF FAILURE: A STORY ABOUT SUCCESS (Yehoo Press, May 2022), and for Middle Grade readers, HAILEY QUEEN PRANKING MAKES PERFECT: THE ALIEN ENCOUNTER (Spork, April 2017)
⭐️ 30 Minute Picture Book Zoom Critique Session with 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)
⭐️ Rate Your Story Speed Pass from Lynne Marie
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Tina Shepardson, author of WALKOUT (Clear Fork Publishing, September 8, 2020)
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique (Rhyming PB or Children’s Poem) with focus on rhyme and meter from Suzy Levinson, author of ANIMALS IN PANTS (Cameron Kids/Abrams, April 11, 2023) and contributor to many poetry anthologies!
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Katie Munday Williams, author of POET, PILGRIM, REBEL: The Story of Anne Bradstreet, America’s First Published Poet (Beaming Books, August 2021)
⭐️ Winner’s Choice: Picture Book Manuscript Critique (non-rhyming) OR a 30 minute ask me anything from Kari Ann Gonzalez, author of HOW TO HATCH A READER (Gnome Road Publishing, August 15, 2023)
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Shelley Kinder, author of NOT SO SCARY JERRY (Spork, September 19, 2017), GOD AND ME AT THE SEA (Kregel Children’s Books, May 17, 2022), and THE MASTERPIECE (Sprok, November 27, 2018)
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Jenny Buchet, author of LITTLE MEDUSA’S HAIR DO-LEMMA (Spork, May 11, 2021)
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique OR signed book (winner’s choice) from Aimee Isaac, author of THE PLANET WE CALL HOME (Philomel Books, March 21, 2023)
⭐️ A signed Copy of the gorgeous MY GRANDPA, MY TREE, AND ME (Yeehoo Press, March 6, 2023) from author Roxanne Troup
⭐️ 30 Minute Ask Me Anything Zoom Chat (anything relating to writing/publishing) with 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) as well as the forthcoming SPIDER LADY: Nan Songer and Her Arachnid WWII Army (Astra/Calkins Creek 2025) and another as yet unannounced 😊
⭐️ 30 Minute Ask Me Anything Zoom Chat (anything relating to writing/publishing)- Becky Scharnhorst, author of MY SCHOOL STINKS! (Flamingo Books, July 2021) and THIS FIELD TRIP STINKS! (Flamingo Books, August 2022)
⭐️ 30 Minute Ask Me Anything with Rebecca Gardyn Levington, author of BRAINSTORM! (Sleeping Bear Press, 2022), WHATEVER COMES TOMORROW (Barefoot Books, Mar 7, 2023), I WILL ALWAYS BE…(HarperCollins, Spring 2024), and AFIKOMAN, WHERE’D YOU GO? (Penguin/Rocky Pond, Spring 2024)
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 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 so you can jump to them easily. Anyone who feels nice can start at the bottom of the list so those entries get read too! 😊
1. To The Moon – Sarah Marhevsky
2. Giant Valentine – Heather Kinser
3. The Princess Is A Scientist – Anne Lipton
4. Dung For Valentine’s – Vashti Verbowski
5. Oh Mr. Groundhog, It’s Valentine’s Day – Susan E. Schipper
6. Tiny The Turtle – Chel Owens
7. ODD Love – Corine Timmer
8. My Stuffed Valentine – Elizabeth Meyer zu Heringdorf
9. The Valentine’s Cloud – Elizabth Meyer zu Heringdorf
10. The Word Party – Kelly Clasen
11. Be Mine? – Spider – Andi Chitty
12. The Valentine’s Day Vulture – Jany Campana
13. Valentine Cookies – Bru Benson
14. Love Punch – Sarah Meade
15. Bulldog and Cat Come Upon a Party – Sarah Meade
16. Baby’s First Valentine – Carrie Karnes-Fannin
17. Hand-wrapped Love – Laura Wippell
18. Daddy, Do You Love Me? – Debbie Meneses
19. Groundhog Oversleeps – Elizabeth Thoms Charles
20. Valentine’s Day Dance Moves – Stephanie Henson
21. Dragons Are NOT Welcome! – Maria P. Pope
22. Guessy Bessy – Valentine Matchmaker – Glenda Roberson
23. Card Tricks – Deborah Foster
24. Sleeping Beauty Wakes Up – Kelly Kates
25. Where Are The Valentines? – Sherry Roberts
26. Valentino’s In Love! – Marty Bellis
27. Poof Poof! – Stephanie K. Mena
28. Gloomy Gus – Marty Bellis
29. Love Is An Adventure – Lauri C. Meyers
30. Fantastic Fox Father – Kathleen Jacobs
31. Amy Ate My Valentine – Ruthie Nicklaus
32. The Great Valentino – Steve Jankousky
33. Sallie Skunk Skips Valentine’s Day – Elyse Trevers
34. P. S. I Like You – Emily Holi
35. Tucker Turtle’s Valentine’s Day Doubts – Nikki Del Vecchio
36. A Skeptical Skunk Named Scottie – Sally Yorke-Viney
37. A Perfect Valentine Card About You – Kay Medway
38. A Sticky Valentine’s Day Invitation – Angela Calabrese
39. Matilda’s New Job – Jesse Anna Bornemann
40. Skeptical V-Day – Isabel Cruz Rodriguez
41. Groundhog’s Party – Mary Rudzinski
42. A Recipe For Friend Chip – Cheryl Simon
43. A Valentine’s Surprise – Sue Lancaster
44. No Mail For R-E-X – Dawn Young
45. Refridgerdating – Jenna Elyse Johnson
46. Chip, Chip Hooray! It’s Valentine’s Day – Jenna Elyse Johnson
47. Ms. Tate’s Tots On The Matter – Jenna Elyse Johnson
48. The Skeptical Receptacle – Ryann Jones
49. Rhino In Love – S. Lee
***Comment Page 2***
50. There’s Nothing Nice About Zachary – Megan Emmot
51. Pilfering Parrots – Katie McEnaney
52. A Valentine For Sassy Cassy – Brenna Jeanneret
53. Cupid Who? – Linda Staszak
54. Milly And The Collywobbles – Colleen Fogarty
55. Capture Cupid – Nicole Garnett
56. Love Litter – Laura Bower
57. A Sister’s Valentine – Tiffany Hanson
58. The Real Surprise For Badger – Cindy Greene
59. Let’s Party – Barbara Renner
60. An Unbelievable Valentine – Susan Eyerman
61. Convincing Cupid – Daniella Kaufman
62. Love, Doug – Abby N. Wooldridge
63. A Snort For A Heart – Sharon Jackson
64. A (Not So) Nice Love Poem – Krista Harrington
65. School Daze: The Valentine Card – Jill Purtee
66. Rosas For El Senor Perez – Carmen Castillo Gilbert, PhD
67. Decisions, Decisions! – Paul Kurtz
68. An Eco-Valentine’s Day – Marla Yablon
69. Too Much Of A Good Thing – Paul Kurtz
70. Prince, Down! – Donna Kurtz
71. Doubting Thomas – Susan Gleeson
72. A Blue Valentine Story – Dwight Evans
73. Cookies, Candy and Cards – Dianne Borowski
74. Valentines: Stamped With Love – Tonnye Williams Flitcher
75. Strange Valentine – Jessica Strahan
76. Love Takes Root – Serena Gingold Allen
77. Teddy Bears Are Real! – D. Eric Herrington
78. Love Jar – Suhasini Gupta
79.
80. A Valentine For Two – Colleen Fogarty
81. The Universe Isn’t Big Enough – SJ Korzelius
82. Bug Me – Danna Zeiger
83. Goojeepers and Mistdoo – Eleanor Ann Peterson
84. Willie’s Heart – Jean Martin
85. Universal Truth – Kara Williams
86. Can We Love Without Our Words? – Jessica Milo
87. Valentine Horse – Emmie R. Werner
88. My Heart Is Yours! – Donna Kurtz
89. The Valentine Box – Ranessa Doucet
90. Loved To The Bone – Celeste Peterson
91. Cranky Old Cranston – Linda Jacobs
92. Tippy’s Magical Forest – Linda Jacobs
93. Love Day – Poupette Smith
94. Chocolate Covered Mealworms – Amanda Perry
95. One Last Valentine Invitation – Lynn Moore
96. My Homemade Valentine – Katie Lee Reinert
97. Tula Tango – Jessi Kay
98. I Don’t Think So – Joan Leotta
99. Roses are red… – Deborah Kim
100. The Love Cookies – Suhasini Gupta
101.
102. A Jellyfish Valentine’s Day – Debi Boccanfuso
103. Chocolate For Valentine’s Day… Again? – Renee Bolla
104. Finding Stray Love – Pamela Swanson
105. Untitled – Deborah Williams
106. Valentine Smile – Ellen Akemi Crosby
107. Heart-Shaped Pancakes – D. Eric Herrington
108. Trick Or Treat? – Colleen Murphy
109. Stupid Cupids – Liisa Walimaa
110. The Valentine’s Day Shoebox – Alison Marcotte
111. It’s Just A Flower, Right? – Kathleen MacEachern
112. Land Meets Sea – Julie Hauswirth
113. Cupid Shmupid – Denise Seidman
114. 2nd Grade Casanova – Kimberly Horch
115. Ladybug Footprints – Kelly Adamson
116. Thanks For Being My Valentine – Sherri T. Mercer
117. Fish Out Of Water – Bridget Magee
118. Dad’s Heart – Kendra Bell
119. Mother’s Valentine Message – Sharon McCarthy
120. The Flavor Of Love – Connie Bergstein Dow
121. Fireworks At Deadman’s Bluff – Aly Kenna
122. Shiver Me Timbers! – Nadia Ali
123. Gifts From The Heart – Helen Lysicatos
124. The Power Of Love – Barbara Kimmel
125. Divine Valentines – Gayle Veitenheimer
126. You’ll See – Lori Dubbin
127. Me And My Best Friend – Mona Pease
128. Wings-a-glow – Jessie Raspbury
129. Pepper’s Perfect Poem – Bri Lawyer
130. Love At First Light – Patricia Finnegan
131. Glenn’s Valentine’s Hope – Nicole Loos Miller
132. Bear’s Chocolate Valentine’s Heart – Anglea Hawkins
133. I Love You Mommy! – Lisa M. Horn
134. Valenterriable – Aundra Tomlins
135. Valentine – Julie Kurtz
136. The Lonely Heart – Anne Bromley
137. Trick Or Treat – Jessie D. Phillips
138. Sally’s Two Valentines – Una Belle Townsend
139. Words Matter – Elizabeth Volkmann
140. How I Almost Forgot Valentine’s Day! – Julie Fruitticher Schroeder
141. Jaden’s Surprise: A Valentine’s Story – Susan Schwartz Twiggs
142. Groundhog’s News – Judy C. Hughes
143. A Change Of Heart – Jill Sbi
144. All You Knead Is Loaf – Alicia Meyers
145. Cupid’s Skeptic – Becky Goodman
146. (Probably) Stolen Valentine – Hannah Kruman
147. A Big Valentine For Little Friends – Marie Key?
148. Just Cal – Elizabeth Muster
149. What Love Looks Like – Ashley Sierra
150. Love Is. . . – Ashley Sierra
151. Peaches’ Valentine – Thelia Hutchinson
152. Valentines Gone Astray – Elise Teichert
153. Kind Hearts – K. Olmstead
154. What Was Up With Valentine’s Day? – Reed Ambrose
155. Lexi’s Plainly Special Valentine – Lisa Billa
156. Stay Away, Red Heart Day! – Terri Dorow
157. Otto’s First Valentine’s Day – Annette Bethers
158.
159. Heart Balloon And Its String – Kate Rehill
160. Jaded Cupid – Effie Koliopoulos
Susanna Leonard Hill 
To the Moon
by Sarah Marhevsky
214 words
Peering through the window, I see the sliver of moon, just like a smile, and I smile back, then glue down the final purple sequins. Using my favorite pink crayon, I print I LOVE YOU on my big sister Vivi’s valentine.
“It’s beautiful!” Vivi hugs me. “I love you more!”
“I love you most!” I squeeze her back.
“I love you to the moon and back!” Vivi winks.
I put my hand on my hip. “You can’t! We can’t get to the moon!”
“Sure we can.” She hops. “We can get on your pogo stick and bounce to the moon!”
I shake my head. “I couldn’t even jump over your Valentine.”
Vivi laughs, then points to a box of brownie mix on the counter. “I could add lots of baking powder, and the brownies would rise so high, we’d ride ‘em straight to the moon!”
I giggle. “That’d never work.”
Vivi snaps. “Wait here and close your eyes!”
I hear clanking and the whoosh of the door opening and closing.
“Come!” Holding my hand, she leads me outside. “Open them and look here.”
I do, and I’m peering through our telescope…at the moon. It’s still smiling, and I’m smiling back again.
“You’re right, Vivi—you do love me to the moon and back!”
I like these sisters. Great VOICE. Rising to the moon on brownies with extra baking powder sounds fun.
Thanks! I loved Richard Scarry as a kid, and there was a story where fudge in the oven (which doesn’t make sense, but OK!) explodes and starts coming out of doors, windows, etc. This is a bit of an homage!
So sweet! The baking powder in the brownies line was my favorite, haha. Well done!
It’s definitely the most fun to imagine! Thanks so much.
Super cute! I also love the part about the baking powder!
Thanks! It would be quite the ride, wouldn’t it??
I enjoyed reading this sweet sisters story. Love their dialogue.
Thanks, Sarah! I’m just waiting for my own kids to argue over who loves the other more…
Your story beautifully encapsulates the magic powers of love, baking, sisters, and the moon.
Thanks, Anne – you make me feel like my story’s more magical than I thought!
Nothing could be sweeter than the love of sisters, and this story captures the magic of sisterhood and imagination.
Thanks, Heather! Imagination can get you all sorts of places…even the moon. (But wouldn’t it be so much more fun on a brownie??)
This is so lovely! Siblings so often antagonize each other in stories—it’s sweet and refreshing to see an “argument” based on sisterly affection. The image of riding brownies to the moon is fun, too!
Thanks, Jesse! I guess love can take you pretty far (let’s see where it gets our own kids!).
What a sweet story! I want Vivi for a sister!
Thanks, Chel! The narrator got pretty lucky (’cause it looks like brownies are in her future, too!)!
I love brownies, too!
GIANT VALENTINE
by Heather Kinser
214 words
Giorgio the Giant was BIG.
But his confidence was small.
Long ago, the villagers’ taunts had driven him to hide away—
up-up and away, in a castle on a cloud.
There he stayed, hiding from Jacks and beanstalks.
Until he saw…her!
Thumbelina glided by, on the back of a singing swallow.
“Hello, friend!” she waved.
What joy Giorgio felt in having a friend.
But…
how would he ever see her again?
He picked up his giant paper and pen
and wrote Thumbelina a Valentine…
I doubt you’ll be my Valentine.
Why should you? After all…
my feet are big as pizzas
and I’m ninety inches tall.
I can’t make conversation;
all I say is, “Fee Fie Foe.”
And my castle in the sky
would only give you vertigo.
Giorgio folded his note into a paper plane.
Whoosh! Down it went.
The next day, by spAIRrow mail, Giorgio’s reply came.
It’s true, you gentle giant.
I’m as tiny as a thumb!
But I’ll gladly be your Valentine,
so please don’t be so glum.
I can see your heart is tender
as a Valentine in lace,
and this teeny Thumbelina
has a heart with LOTS of space!
tweet-tweet
In swooped a swallow…
and there was Thumbelina!
With open arms, she greeted him—
“I’ll be your ValenTINY!”
What a sweet story. I enjoyed reading it. I particularly like your beginning and ending.
“I doubt you’ll be my Valentine.
Why should you? After all…
my feet are big as pizzas
and I’m ninety inches tall.”
I love this so much!! And it was clever how you worked in the contest’s name. Good luck with your entry!
“My feet are big as pizzas.” What a great line that kids would eat up. You did a great job seeding Giorgio’s skepticism that Thumbelina would ever care for him. An endearing story with a warm and satisfying ending.
Aww, this made me smile so much!! I love that Giorgio went for it, even though he didn’t think he stood a chance. Also… “spAIRow mail”, hahaha!
I’ll be your ValenTINY – ha! What a clever way to connect story and contest! I like the spAIRow mail – and “a heart with LOTS of space.” I also love that the giant (who is generally a maligned character in the fairy tales!) gets some positive reinforcement here.
Want to shout my appreciation for Giorgio – so brave in putting his feelings out there! A gorgeous story, thanks for sharing
This is delightful! The characters, clever valentine rhymes, and that final line– so much fun! Nicely done.
Thanks for all the nice comments! Much appreciated. -Heather
As always with your stories and poetry, there’s a lot to love here! Such a fun concept for a Valentine’s Day tale, and the rhymes made me smile (“Fee Fie Foe” / “vertigo” is inspired, not to mention “feet as big as pizzas”!). Well done!
I love this! Heather, your word play (spAIRrow) and story line are delightful. Nicely done. – Cindy Greene
This is just adorable. I felt Giorgio’s skepticism and Thumbelina’s love.
Love it that the giant’s skepticism was porven wrong!
The Princess is a Scientist
by Anne Lipton
212 words
The princess viewed her valentines
and her eyebrows rose.
She didn’t buy such phony lines,
trite verse, or sappy prose.
What would her subjects say to her
if she did not wield power?
Would they still send valentines
or storm her high-rise tower?
The princess bolted shut her door
and left behind her crown.
She pushed a stone to open up
the well-lit passage down.
She hurried on some tight-fit gloves
and donned a snow-white gown,
then slipped into a science class
held in Ye Olde Mid-Town.
She learned how to hypothesize.
She journeyed on a quest.
She gathered all her questions
and put them to the test.
The survey she compiled
explored her subjects’ views:
Is our princess best for us?
Or does she mean bad news?
She totted up her subjects’ thoughts,
instead of just their taxes,
and plotted out her data points
upon an x-y axis.
Her findings showed the well-to-do
deemed her as good as queen,
while peasants only scraping by
saw her as cold and mean.
The princess is a scientist
who also wears a crown,
and when her research proved to her
how she’d let people down—
she handquilled heartfelt valentines
and slashed her lavish spending,
then gifted everyone a vote
to pick their happy ending!
This is great, Anne. I like this princess.
Thanks, Corine. I like your anemone and friends!
Such a great ending, I love this!! Well done, Anne!
Thank you!
I really like the stanza about data points and the x-y axis (science/math and poetry can be friends!), and I appreciate the message here about being attuned to other people’s needs (all the more important for people who are in positions of power). Can I vote your princess in??
Thanks for your comments and your vote! I love that stanza, too.
Great job; even has some STEM in it.
Thank you! I’m glad the STEM shone through.
Oh, Anne. This is brilliant and the message one for the times we’re living in. Perfect rhyme and meter, to boot!
Thanks, Glenda!❤️
Wonderful timing for International Day of Women and Girls in Science! YES, PRINCESS! You have my vote!
Best day ever! Thank you for your words and vote, Laura!❤️
This is WONDERFUL, Anne! I think it needs to be a picture book. That last stanza is my favorite, but there are so many memorable lines and funny rhymes. Love this skeptical princess scientist.
Thanks, Sarah!❤️
This is the most interesting, analytical Valentine’s Day story I’ve ever read! I love it.
What a wonderful compliment! Thank you, Chel!❤️
Anna, what a great way for the princess to study her valentines with scientific method in rhyme!
Thanks, Denise! I tried to cover all the bases!
This is fresh and sophisticated, Anne. The princess’s skepticism is so nicely conveyed. Well done!
Thanks, Kelly!❤️
Wow, I love this so much Anne! Aside from your clever rhymes, I love how your story lifts up women, the scientific method, and democracy. Amazingly done, as always!
Thanks as always, Vashti!❤️
I think this is a winner, Anne—great rhyme (love “taxes/axis”), a clever concept, and STEM! I’m bowing to your princess!
Thank you!❤️ (Taxes/axis is also my fave rhyme.)
Well done Anne. The princess is a true skeptic seeking facts and is willing to change her mind. Lynn
Thanks, Lynn!❤️
DUNG FOR VALENTINE’S
by Vashti Verbowski
214 words
When Dunphy crawled out of his hideout, he saw patches of snow. But the deer were grazing, and for a dung beetle, that meant one thing: breakfast!
“Whatcha waiting for?” asked a butterfly.
“You’ll see,” said Dunphy.
As they waited, Dunphy and the butterfly played a game of pass the pinecone.
“I’m Dunphy, by the way.”
“Call me Florence,” said the butterfly.
“Do you want to exchange valentines for Valentine’s Day?” asked Dunphy.
Florence fluttered happily, “Sure!”
Just then, the deer stopped munching—
Plop! Plop! Plop!
Dunphy formed the deer droppings into tiny balls and ATE one.
“Oh no!” thought Florence. “I’ve made a terrible mistake.” She could only imagine what kind of valentine a dung beetle would give.
After rolling the rest of the dung into his hideout, Dunphy waved goodbye, “See you on Valentine’s.”
When Valentine’s Day arrived, Florence thought about hiding in the treetops, but she wanted to give Dunphy his surprise.
“It’s a connect-the-dot scavenger hunt,” she exclaimed. “The dots are dung!”
Dunphy smiled, “Thank you, Florence. I made a similar valentine for you.”
“Of course,” thought Florence, more dung.
But what Dunphy gave her, filled the air with unexpected fragrance.
“Dung is the perfect fertilizer for flowers!” beamed Dunphy.
Florence laughed. Dung for Valentine’s wasn’t so bad after all!
This is a unique story with a sweet-scented twist at the end. I love the connect-the-dot (dung) scavenger hunt. What a great Valentine’s gift for a dung beetle! Great title.
Bahaha, I literally laughed out loud at “I’ve made a terrible mistake.”! So funny, I could feel the butterfly’s skepticism. I love the Valentine’s they ended up making, so cute Vashti!!
A dung beetle! A unique Valentine’s story. Dunphy and Florence each thought of the other’s needs and interests to create the perfect valentine for the other; good message!
“Oh no!” thought Florence. “I’ve made a terrible mistake.” – LOL. This was so cute!!
Talk about a unique and fun story! It was funny when Florence realized she probably made a mistake agreeing on exchanging Valentines with a dung beetle. And how you made Dunphy insightful enough to realize that maybe flowers were a better gift for a butterfly than dung was priceless. He’s one romantic beetle!
What a fun story! I like how Florence got an unexpected sweet-smelling Valentine’s suprise.
😀 This is funny, and so cute. Who thought I’d read a V-Day story about dung?
Oh my dung beetle, Vashti! This is the kind of no-holds-barred bathroom humor that makes for bestselling picture books. And the ending is everything.😍💐
Thanks for your comments everyone! Glad no one was turned off by the title:) Happy Valentine’s!
Such creative thinking to write a Valentine’s Day story featuring a dung beetle! I like the idea of dung connect-the-dots—perfect for a butterfly, who doesn’t have to worry too much about where she steps!
Vashi, how fun to read your story. Unique and just the right amount gross that kids and me like. Lynn
Oh Mr. Groundhog, It’s Valentine’s Day
Susan E. Schipper
WC 214
Is it a shadow or will springtime soon be here? Gabe Groundhog was beside himself. Gabe was unsure. He had to get it right. Early spring? More winter? “Oh dear, oh dear, what if I make a mistake? Everybody is depending on me, especially Penelope Porcupine!” Gabe’s heart began to race! “Penelope will never feel the same about me. She thinks I can do anything. I’m pretty skeptical about that!”
Gabe ‘s mind went to when he got it wrong. He thought he saw his shadow and raced back into his burrow! Spring, however, turned up the next day! “This is why I’m questioning myself.” “Oh me, Oh my!”
Winter, Spring, Winter, Spring “BRINNG”!
Gabe’s burrow bell was ringing nonstop! He attempted to get out of bed.
“Bed!”, he shouted, “why am I in bed? Am I dreaming? Did I miss February 2nd?” Scrambling to get to his door, he saw his calendar! Then he remembered marking off the days AFTER February 2! “I thought I saw my shadow, but.. ” “It’s Valentine’s Day, and Penelope …Yikes!”
With an incredulous gasp, he opened the door. There she stood, holding the biggest bouquet of dandelions, alfalfa and clover!
“Hi Gabe! ”Quill” you be my Valentine?” …
Back Matter
Groundhogs’ favorite foods include Alfalfa, clover, dandelions.
I love that Penelope show up in the end, even though Gabe doubted! So sweet 🙂
Thanks for reading and commenting!! 🙂
Quill you be my Valentine – what a great pun! I’m so glad things worked out for Gabe (and Penelope!).
absolutely – most fun line in there!
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed the pun! 🙂
Me too! 🙂 🙂
Gabe is such a sweet, lovable little guy. You do a great job of showing how he lacks confidence after getting his prediction wrong one winter. And how wonderful that Penelope loves him no matter what. She seems to be the one who might help him achieve better self esteem.
Thanks, Angie! So happy you enjoyed these “characters”! 🙂
What a sweet main character and adorable ending! I enjoyed your Groundhog Day/Valentine’s Day mashup.
Thanks so much, Sarah! It certainly was a “mash up” :)!!
I’m sure the groundhog would feel a lot of agitation if he knew how many of us were watching his verdict! 🙂 Cute story.
Thank You Chel! It seems he, well at least ” Punxsutawney Phil”, usually sees his shadow! I’m always happy if he doesn’t and Spring actually did arrive early! Lol!
🙂
Me, too! We always get more winter around where I live, though!
Poor Gabe Groundhog, I really felt his self doubt and his frantic concern of making the wrong prediction . Love wins out. Lynn
Thanks so much for reading and commenting! 🙂
Tiny the Turtle
Tiny, the turtle, had a not-so-tiny fear
That nobody would be his friend for Valentine’s, this year.
His teacher, Mrs. Elephant -with not-so-tiny ears-
Had said he would get lots of cards from someone very dear.
“It’s Valentine’s,” she’d trumpeted, as elephants will do,
“A holiday of fun and treats, and cards with hearts for you!”
But Tiny -in his tiny shell, and tiny heart- just knew
That, out of all the animals, he’d get but one or two.
“I’ll have a bunch!” barked Douglas Dog, as sure as he could be.
Chirped Betty, quite the happy bird, “You won’t get more than me!”
And Cora purred, as cats like to, “I want three-hundred-three,
“From all my friends -and candy, too! Oooh! Just you wait and see!”
Tiny made some cards with hearts, to sadly give away.
With not-so-tiny fear, he thought, No one will care; will say,
“Thank you, Tiny. How’d you know? Come be my friend; come play!”
Poor Tiny, in his tiny heart, feared Valentine’s that day.
But Tiny’s doubts and Tiny’s fears; his not-so-tiny cares
All flew away, like Betty Bird, when he got to his chair –
For, at his desk, and on the floor, and falling everywhere;
Were valentines and candy hearts, from everyone. They cared!
©2023 Chel Owens
211 words, according to Wordcounter.net.
I’m glad Tiny’s not-so-tiny fears flew away. Who doesn’t want to feel loved on Valentines Day?I enjoyed your story.
Thank you, Corine! I definitely felt my own childhood fears whilst writing it. ❤️
Very cute, Chel! Tiny hearts can love and be loved just as much a bigger ones, so sweet!
How right you are. ❤️ Thank you.
Tiny – a nice play on the Valentiny! The repetition of tiny and not-so-tiny really helps unify the piece – and makes Tiny’s payoff all the sweeter. I’m so glad he was wrong!
Thank you! After I penned it, I realized I’d been influenced by ‘Valentiny’ at first inspiration! Ha! Thank you for your complimentary words. ❤️
You had me cheering for Tiny Turtle from the start! Love the happy ending!
Thank you! I sure want him to be happy.
Awww- that last line had me smiling. What a sweet story!
Thank you!
So sweet! Glad tiny go his not-so-tiny love!
Me, too!
I love how Tiny makes cards to give away despite his fears that his sentiments will not be returned and how your ending image of valentines falling everywhere echoes Tiny’s doubts and fears flying away. I also ❤️ your skill in capitalizing on the animals’ distinct traits to create distinct and funny characters.
That’s very kind of you! I can’t help but lament not being able to elaborate more, but there’s a word limit!!
What a cute “Valen-Tiny” story! “)
Thank you!
Very cute Chel, I like the repetition with Tiny. I’m so glad it was a happy ending!
Thank you. ❤️
What a heartwarming tale. I can picture Tiny overcome with joy at the end. Sweet story, Chel!
Thank you! ❤️ I sure hope he was. 🐢
Chel – I loved this! Fun rhyme and so relatable. I enjoyed the pairing of animal and sounds (trumpet, bark) and thought the ending was great. Nicely done.
Thank you. After reading other people’s, I wish I’d done more -so I’m glad to hear you liked it.
Wonderful story. Great word choices such as “she’d trumpeted.” I always admire someone who can write in rhyme. Loved the ending, “they cared.”
Thank you. 214 words ended it a bit prematurely, but I’m glad I could fit what I could.
such a cute story. i was all in and cheering for tiny at that heart-warming last line!
Aw, thanks.
Cute story! Loved your rhyme! So happy that Tiny realized he did have friends!
Me, too!
What a great line for Mrs. Elephant: ““It’s Valentine’s,” she’d trumpeted, as elephants will do” I have such a vivid mental image of this “trumpeting” elephant with “not-so-tiny ears.”
🐘 Can’t be subtle when you’re always so big!
This can be such a relatable feeling for children: fear of being left out. This is such a sweet story with a happy ending. I like how you used tiny throughout. It was fun to read and lighten the doubt. Good luck!
Thank you very much. ❤️
ODD Love
Corine Timmer
214 words
“Look at that anemone,” Clownfish said, as her eyes lit up.
“I wouldn’t snuggle up to Stichodactylidae,” Shrimp said,
“haven’t you heard?”
“What?” Clownfish said, as she drifted closer to Anemone.
Hir tentacles turned a blush pink.
“That type will sting you then eat you whole,” Shrimp said.
Clownfish gulped. Her body quivered.
“I like the way you smell,” Anemone whispered,
as sie put all hir arms all around her.
Clownfish stared at her puckered pink lips.
“Yikes!” Shrimp shrieked.
Then there was silence.
When Shrimp opened his eyes,
Clownfish was swaying in Anemone’s arms.
“You’re the only fish that hasn’t died in my grasp,” Anemone said,
“will you be my Valentine?”
Clownfish beamed.
Then Anemone started to sing:
“You’re the flow between my arms,
my eyes in the dark.
I love you more than I love myself,
more than sunlight.”
Clownfish gasped. “I love you more than romance,” she said,
“you complete me.”
“Gross,” shrimp said, as he scurried away.
“I love you more than boneworms love a carcass,” he mumbled.
“I heard that,” a sweet-sounding voice said.
Shrimp looked up.
The most exquisite goby he had ever seen
was hovering near him.
Hir translucent body adorned with
fluorescent orange spots.
Shrimp’s whiskers quivered.
At once he started digging hir
a hideout.
Cute, but also informative! How fun 😀
Thanks for reading and commenting. I’m glad you liked it.
This was a sweet way to play on the symbiotic relationship between clownfish and anemones. You’re inclusive with your pronoun use, which matches the message. “I love you more than boneworms love a carcass” – ha!
Thanks for stopping by and commenting. It was a bit of a puzzle. So interesting though. Nature is wondrous. I’m glad you noticed the inclusive pronouns. I wasn’t sure if it would work. There is also a symbiotic relationship between Shrimp and the goby.
Anemones can reproduce either asexually or sexually. Some gobies have the ability to change sex to form pairs. Even the clownfish starts off as male but can become female, though it can never change back to being male. Awesome!
Love the under-the-sea setting, STEM info, and surprises!
Thanks, Sarah.
Such a charming, funny, and ingeniously written celebration of the diversity of love and sea life!
Aww. Thanks for reading and commenting, Anne. I’m glad you like it.
Now I know what springtime is like under the sea! 😀
Thanks for stopping by.
I guess it’s true that opposites attract. Fun STEM. Ooo. “I love you more than boneworms love a carcass,” he mumbled. How romantic. Good luck Corine!
Thanks for reading and commenting.
My fave line: “I love you more than boneworms love a carcass.” Fun and informative, too.
Thanks for stopping by.
This is a great stem story! 🙂
Thanks 🙂
Corine, your title caught my attention. And I see this as a wonderful illustrated story.
Thanks 😊
My Stuffed Valentine
Elizabeth Meyer zu Heringdorf
193 words
Anna and James sat next to each other in class.
Sometimes Anna sneaked a peek at him,
but they never looked at each other,
and they didn’t speak.
A tiny stuffed wombat sat on James’s desk.
It’s very cute, thought Anna.
Valentine’s Day was tomorrow.
She wanted to make James a valentine,
but terror made her chew her pinkie.
I’ll make the wombat a valentine.
At home she looked around for inspiration.
Vacation gear and groceries were piled together,
next to Anna’s beat-up stuffed rabbit.
So Anna drew the rabbit wearing a ski mask
and carrying a tiny zucchini.
But would James like it?
“What are you doing?” asked Anna’s brother.
“Making a valentine for a wombat.”
“Oh god, you’re so weird.”
“Who cares?” snapped Anna.
But is it too much?
The next day Anna held her breath,
and shoved the valentine over to James.
She clutched her desk as he picked it up.
“It’s for your wombat, from my rabbit.”
James opened it up and then read it.
Then he looked over at her.
“Bring your rabbit tomorrow,
And they can eat the zucchini.”
And they looked at each other and smiled.
I like how Anna finds a way to make a Valentine for James without actually making him one – a clever problem solver, with a cute solution!
Thank you for reading it! I’m glad you liked it.
Love the quirkiness of this sweet story. Such fun details, particularly the wombat and the zucchini.
Thank you! Quirky is what I aim for :-).
Such a cute premise. A wombat and a zucchini are a unique combo!
Thanks, and thanks for reading it!
Thank you!
Awwww. I hope they have many picnics together!
Me too! Thanks for reading!
You had me at wombat! Very cute and quirky!
Thanks, Laura!!
I liked the cute ending …”they can eat the zucchini”! 🙂
Thank you!
Your story is fun to read. She found an unusual way to celebrate. Also, the banter between siblings was authentic.
Thanks, Lynn! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
The Valentine’s Cloud
Elizabeth Meyer zu Heringdorf
138 words
On a bright and early fourteenth
When the sky was palest blue,
A heart-shaped cloud appeared there
With the Valentine’s Day dew.
“I don’t believe in valentines,”
a man sniped all the while.
But as the cloud passed over him
His pout became a smile.
At the corner by the bookstore
The kids shoved in a huddle.
But as the heart cloud floated near,
They all began to cuddle.
A cleaning lady scrubbed the stairs
with washing pail and mop.
But as the cloud came by her way,
She turned and kissed a cop!
With all this love the cloud filled up
And there were several showers.
Small plants sneaked up from underground
with valentine-shaped flowers.
The flowers rose up in the air
And flew to everyone
So all can have a valentine
And after rain, the sun.
The cloud is the Valentine: a unique take on the usual giving of the day! I’d like to see that cloud myself.
Thank you! I have actually seen a Valentine-shaped cloud (or maybe love was influencing my vision)!
This is such a sweet, creative premise– love the images of the Valentine’s love spreading.
Thanks, Sarah!
I love this idea! It’s like a cumulus cupid!
Thanks, Chel!
What an interesting premise! A Valentine Cloud. We could certainly use a bunch of them including the cuddles and kisses that come with them.
Thanks, Angie! (This makes me think of the Burt Bacharach song, “What the World Needs Now…” :-))
This is lovely, unique, and thoughtful. I love the idea of a heart-shaped cloud touching everyone’s heart and that all this love fills the cloud with rain, which, leads to blooming flowers. I like the interconnectedness. Your story resonates. I can picture it too.
Thanks so much, Corine! Your comment really brightened my day!
What a beautiful way to show how something as simple as a heart shaped cloud could brighten Valentine’s Day… magical or not:)
Thanks so much, Vashti!!
Elizabeth, I chuckled when the cleaning lady kissed the cop. The valentine cloud showering folks with love is sweet and fun to imagine. Lynn
Thanks! It was fun to write.
THE WORD PARTY (edited)
By Kelly Clasen
213 words
My teacher is destroying Valentine’s Day.
She said this year we’re trying something different.
A Word Party.
No cards, she said. No need for Valentine boxes.
This year, we’ll swap kind words about our classmates.
Adjectives, she said.
But I’m skeptical.
What’s a Valentine’s Day party without Valentines?
Without candy?
What ON EARTH am I supposed to say about Henry Murdock?
Last week, he put glitter glue on my braids.
The other day, he stole my pencil.
I am not at all sure about this Word Party.
***
And yet Valentine’s Day is here.
“Mia, please get us started,” says my teacher.
Me? First?
Pink roses bloom on my cheeks.
But then I look at my best friend Lily, and she grins.
“Fun,” I say. Lily’s smile widens.
Classmate by classmate, the words fill my mouth with sweetness.
“Musical!”
“Thoughtful!”
“Super-duper fast!”
I look at Henry and hesitate.
“Brave,” I say.
By the time I’m done, good vibes hum in the classroom.
But then it is Henry’s turn.
I’m dreading this.
At last, he gets to me.
“Perfect,” he says.
My face flames like a heart-shaped box of chocolates.
“OK, Henry, let’s move on,” my teacher says.
But the word hangs in the air.
The Word Party could have been worse, I suppose.
This is great! I love how, at the beginning, she’s worried that she’ll miss out on candy – then, later, “Classmate by classmate, the words fill my mouth with sweetness.” She finds sweetness in a different way. Great imagery, too, with “My face flames like [a] heart-shaped box of chocolates” – again, the candy she isn’t missing, as Henry’s word hangs in the air. Perfect might just be the right word for this, too!
Oh, shoot. I can’t believe I missed that “a”! Thanks for the kind feedback, though!
A word party, how fun is that! Such a cute story, well done 🙂
Good thoughtful story.
This is so sweet! I love the narrator’s strong voice and that last line.
Kelly, your story is truly thoughtful and ingenious and so—well, in a word, PERFECT.❤️
Thank you, Anne. I thoroughly enjoyed your princess scientist as well!
Ooh-hoo! I love the tension and uncertainty, then the buildup. What a lot you’ve done with so few words -I didn’t even feel limited like I did in trying to craft mine. Well done.
Thank you so much for the kind feedback!
Your story was so well crafted. You managed to give a distinct personality to Mia and although skeptical of this Word Party, she slowly finds her groove and even comes up with a complimentary word for Henry. Exceptionally well done.
I appreciate the positive feedback. Thank you!
Fun story! I certainly wasn’t expecting Henry’s word:) Well done.
The Word Party was a great story to read. I thoroughly enjoyed “My face flames like a heart-shaped box of chocolates.” I can imagine many kids reading your story.
Be Mine? -Spider
by Andi Chitty
204 words
Dearest Fly,
Roses are red.
Violets are blue.
Dewdrops are sweet,
And so are you!
Be mine this Valentine’s Day?
Your admirer,
Spider
~~~
Spider,
My mom told me not to talk to spiders.
Skeptical at best,
Fly
~~~
My Dearest Fly,
I love your wings, your flawless skin.
Your sweet aroma sucks me in.
I love the way you slurp up goop,
And how you love to dance on poop.
Please don’t doubt me, I’m sincere.
All I want is you my dear.
Yours,
Spider
~~~
Spider,
Yeah… I don’t think I want to be “yours”.
-Fly
~~~~
My Love,
Your hesitance is a mistake.
You clearly are not thinking straight.
I spent all day on your surprise.
I’ll meet you at my web at 8.
Sending love,
Spider
~~~~
Spider,
Nice try.
Never yours,
Fly
~~~~
Silly Fly,
You’re really funny, yes it’s true!
Another thing I love about you.
Please bring a glass of blood-red wine
To enjoy while I –er, we dine.
One last request, my yummy one.
Please eat before you come.
Excitedly,
Spider
~~~~
Spider,
Changed my mind. See you at 8!
-Fly
P.S. Bird will be joining us.
~~~~
Fly,
Just realized you’re the wrong fly. Sorry. You all smell alike.
Don’t come.
-Spider
An epistolary entry – clever! Spider is funny: “I love the way you slurp up goop,/
And how you love to dance on poop.” Fly is a great problem solver: planning to bring along bird really took care of Fly’s unwanted admirer!
Thank you!!
This was a great story, with lots of unexpected banter. I love the wording especially dancing on poop.
Thanks so much!
I love the spider’s voice! This is brilliant and made me smile
I’m so glad it made you smile!
This is SO fun! I laughed out loud. Love this! Great ending.
Haha, thank you Corine!
This is so cute, clever, and creative. Love the format and funny rhymes.
Thanks so much, Sarah!!
“Bird will be joining us.” –LOL. Andi ~ this is brilliant!!!
Haha, thanks Carrie! Yours was so great!!
Wicked! Love it
Thank you!!
Ah! So fun Andi!! Excellent story- so clever!!
Thank you, Nicole!!
A terrific bite-sized retelling of The Spider and The Fly! You draw us in with witty repartee that flies back and forth with the speed and zest of text messages and then loop in a brilliant surprise (guest).
You are so kind, thank you so much Anne!
lol, spider cracks me up.
Haha, thanks Maria!!
Okay -this is hilarious. I really thought the spider might be sincere…
Haha, success!! Thanks so much, Chel!
This is so clever–and reminds me a little of the gruffelo!
Thank you, Sarah!! I love The Gruffalo, I’m so pleased!
This was utterly fun and entertaining. Loved Spider’s “voice” and rhyming love letters to Fly. Fly’s snarkiness was spot on. The ending was a riot. Soooo well done!
Thank you so much, Angie! Glad you enjoyed it!!
Absolutely love this, Andi!
Thanks Bri!! Your critique was so helpful (as always!)
I love your characters, voice, format, and rising tension (including spider’s slip-ups near the end). So funny:)
Thank you so much, Vashti!!
This is great, Andi! What a nice twist for Fly to have Bird as backup. Spider has indeed picked the wrong fly to wine and dine on.
Haha, thank you Denise!!
This is soooo fun and soooo clever! Wishing you all the best.
Thank you, Anne! You as well!!
Spider is so persistent. And fly so clever. A great story. Kids will love reading your story and “dance on poop,” will be one of their favorite lines.
So glad you liked it, thank you Lyn!
So glad Fly wasn’t fooled! This is great fun. Well done!
Haha, thank you so much Deborah!
THE VALENTINE’S DAY VULTURE
By Jany Campana
Word Count 159
Vultures don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day.
But Vincent does.
“It’s my favorite holiday,” he tells his best friend, Valerie. “And this year, I’m bringing Valentine’s Day to the vulture community.
Valerie is skeptical. “Vultures celebrate meat and nothing else.”
Vincent explains. “That’s why we need a day to express our love for all things vulture.”
He begins his campaign by making hundreds and hundreds of cards.
On Valentine’s Day, Vincent delivers each one.
Then he waits.
Just as Vincent is ready to agree with Valerie, the other vultures venture outside.
Vincent shouts, “Happy Valentine’s Day!”
“Vultures don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day,” says the biggest vulture. “It’s meat collecting day!”
Vincent plops down. He watches the flock fly off.
Valerie joins him. “Happy Valentine’s Day.”
“You don’t celebrate today.” Vincent’s beak droops.
“I do now,” Valerie says. “Because of you.”
Vincent’s heart swells. “That means, the number of vultures celebrating Valentine’s Day has doubled.”
Vincent’s eyes open-wide. “Imagine Valentine’s Day next year.”
I expected Vincent to win everyone over – but I like that he doesn’t. Having won over one – doubling the number of celebrants! – I can see the power of numbers: 4 next year, 8 the next, 16 the year after…a story of hope.
I absolutely love this– so quirky and funny! This the vulture Valentine’s Day story I didn’t know I needed. Nicely done, Jany!
Aww, Jany! Who knew vultures could be sweet? I’m rooting for Valerie & Vincent.
Ha ha, clever ending. And I love that Vincent is such an optimist.
You’ve created a fantastic character in Victor with seriously incredible voice. “I’m bringing Valentine’s Day to the vulture community.” OMG (or should I say OMV?), look out Valerie, I am in love.
Sounds like a great tradition to start!
Oh, how sweet is Vincent? He is the eternal optimist despite getting rejected by many. A unique story about hope and forging ahead even when things look dismal.
I’m with Vincent… “That’s why we need a day to express our love for all things vulture.” Great line:) Fun story!
Valentines and vultures! That’s unique. A satisfying ending, too.
Valentine Cookies
By Bru Benson
Word Count: 211
Crowfert the rooster saw them first, Valentine cookies in the bakery window.
“I love cookies too,” Kanga, his best kangaroo friend, said.
“Let’s get two cookies! ” Crowfert said.
“Can I help you?” the baker asked.
“We want one red and one white Valentine cookie, please,” Crowfert said.
“That’ll be four cents, please,” said the baker.
Crowfert checked under his wing.
Kanga searched in her secret pouch.
Uh Oh!
I only have one penny,” Crowfert said.
And I only have one penny,” Kanga said.
“One and one is two, not four; just enough for one cookie, not two,” Crowfert said, “Let’s go. We’ll never get both.”
“Baker, can we barter? I can hop up to the tallest shelf for you,” Kanga said.
“No, two cookies, four cents,” the Baker said.
“I can wake you without an alarm clock,” Crowfert said.
“Nope. Four cents, please.”
Crowfert looked at the cookie tray.
“Well, if two cookies are four cents, then one is two cents. “Isn’t that correct, Mr. Baker?”
“Yes. Two cents.”
“Can I have the broken half of that red cookie and the broken half of that white cookie to make ONE cookie?” Crowfert asked, “We both can have the cookie we like.”
“Happy Valentine’s Day!” they said, chewing on their cookie half.
Sweet story! I love all the math here, as well as the happy solution.
Who said a broken heart is a sad thing? 🙂 This was a great resolution and cute friends story.
Thank you.
Love Punch
By Sarah Meade
Word Count: 214
Ringtail ran excited circles around her neighbor.
“Peccary, are you coming to my Valentine’s party?”
“Doubt it,” Peccary mumbled.
“Why, friend?!”
Peccary sighed. “Just not feeling the love.”
Ringtail twirled her tail. “My love punch will help!”
“Doubt it.” Peccary pouted.
“You’ll see!”
Inside, Ringtail reviewed her recipe.
She sliced strawberries, sprinkled sugar, and cracked a can of sparkling soda.
She stir-stir-stirred, then sipped. “Hmm . . .”
Ringtail peeked outside at Peccary lounging under his lime tree– and smiled to herself.
“Peccary,” Ringtail called, “my love punch is missing something!”
Peccary opened one eye.
“Maybe you can help?” Ringtail asked.
“Doubt it.” Peccary pouted.
Ringtail twirled her tail. “It needs something . . . sour.”
Peccary perked up. “Try a lime,” he suggested. “Here you go. Take two.”
“Thank you, friend!”
Ringtail smiled as she squeezed lime juice into the love punch.
She sampled. “Perfect!”
Ringtail checked her decorations. “Delightful!”
Soon her friends arrived. “Party time!”
Ringtail spied Peccary peeking inside.
She smiled and served cups of love punch.
“Sweet!”
“Tangy!”
“Truly tasty!”
“Peccary helped!” Ringtail exclaimed. “His secret ingredient saved my love punch!”
“Yay, Peccary!” Everyone cheered.
Peccary blinked, then . . . beamed.
He stepped inside and slurped up some love punch.
“You were right, Ringtail. I’m feeling the love.”
Ringtail ran excited circles around Peccary.
“Happy Valentine’s Day, friend!”
Aww, this is so sweet! Poor Peccary is so doubtful, but ends up helping and getting credit in the end (and subsequently, some love)! So cute, Sarah. Well done!
Well done, Sarah! I love this sweet story that packs a punch!
A beautiful story of balancing flavors and friendship.💚💚
As I think you know, writing prose generally intimidates me—but your prose reads so much like poetry, with its lovely alliteration (“sprinkled sugar and cracked a can of sparkling soda”) and punchy (forgive the pun!) dialogue. You might convince me to give prose yet another try. Hooray for Peccary!
That is the best compliment, Jesse Anna! Thank you!
Sarah, I love the names of your characters! Super story! 🙂
Thank you, Susan!
Such a sweet story of friendship! Love the distinct characters. Well done, Sarah!!
Thank you, thank you, my friend!
Great story arc of likeable characters. Peccary is doubtful and Ringtail so determined. “Not feeling the love,” cracked me up.
Thanks for reading and for your kind comments!
What an adorable premise, Sarah. Doubtful Peccary needed someone kind and lovable like Ringtail to demonstrate what friends do to show their love. Well done!
Thank you so much for reading and commenting!
Bulldog and Cat Come Upon a Party
By Sarah Meade
Word Count: 205
Well, well, well. What do we have here, Cat?
Wow, Bulldog! Looks like a Valentine’s Day party!
You sure about that, Cat?
Oh, without a doubt! See the red balloons? Valentine’s party!
You sure about that, Cat? Could be a birthday party. Did you know every day nearly 17.7 million people around the world celebrate their birthdays?
But Bulldog, see the heart-shaped streamers? Valentine’s party!
You sure about that, Cat? February IS American Heart Month. Perhaps this party is for everyone to focus on their cardiovascular health.
But Bulldog, see the boxes of chocolates? Valentine’s party!
You sure about that, Cat? February fourteenth IS National Cream-Filled Chocolates Day.
But, Bulldog. . . Look at the cupids hanging from the ceiling! Red roses! Conversation hearts! If this isn’t a Valentine’s party, I don’t know what it is!!
You sure about that, Cat? What are all those books?
Hmmm. I don’t know . . . Hey, Bulldog? What’s that banner say?
It says . . . “Happy Library Lovers’ Day!”
Wow. . . Well . . . Wow. I stand corrected, Bulldog. It’s NOT a Valentine’s Day party.
Mmmhmm.
I do love libraries. Let’s check it out!
But, Cat, what about Valentine’s Day?
We can celebrate both! It’s all about the love today, Bulldog.
I’m sure about THAT, Cat.
I had no idea about these holidays! So cute.
Really enjoyed reading this, Sarah. Lots to celebrate!
A fun and fact-filled tribute to celebrating all the holidays, especially if they involve love and books.❤️
Great way to bring attention to other February holidays! 🙂
Library day! So cute!
Fantastic humor, clever concept, and so kid-friendly. Hooray, Sarah!
Thanks so much, Kelsey! I always appreciate your help and encouragement.
Wonderful story Sarah. I liked the title as it really set up the story. And the repeated phrase, “You sure about that,” captured Bulldog’s doubt. And so many holidays to celebrate. Now, I know there’s A Happy Library Lovers’ Day. Well done.
Thank you so much!
BABY’S FIRST VALENTINE
by
Carrie Karnes-Fannin
(78 words)
You
might not believe this
right now…
You
might not feel it,
with my small, sticky hand flung
across your face, with just one hour left
to sleep.
You
might be pressed
to imagine this as you discover the two bites
I took from the very last piece
of double-chocolate
pie.
You
might not see it,
while you scrub those knee-high crayon marks
from the bathroom wall.
You
might not believe this
right now,
but…
…I love you.
This is just lovely, and a beautiful tribute to all of the tired parents out there!
Thank you, Laura!
Always love reading your entries, Carrie, and this is no exception! So so adorable, my momma’s heart felt this one for sure! Well done!!
Thank you, Andi! I loved yours, by the way.
So so sweet! And so relatable.
Nice job Carrie! So relatable and vivid images. – Cindy Greene
Thank you, Cindy! I’m glad you liked it.
So so so sweet. I picture this as an adorable board book, given to an expectant mother. She’s going to cry happy-tears.
Aww, that’s a lovely idea.
This is such a cute, funny, and heart-warming story. A great story for both littles and their tired mamas!
Carrie, you captured the bond between baby and parent beautifully and in just 78 words.
Simply stated capturing lots of warm fuzzies. So much heartfelt emotion in only 78 words. Now that’s a feat.
Thank you so much, Angie! ❤
Hand-wrapped Love
By Laura Wippell
200 words
I am love.
I am little Benny’s love.
I am little Benny’s love for his mom.
I am little Benny’s love for his mom, who needs to be gift-wrapped for Valentine’s Day!
Will Little Benny find something special enough to wrap me in?
I’m not sure…
Love deserves special wrapping, you know.
Little Benny drags me off on a hunt for the loveliest wrapping.
A cardboard box?
No thank you! Too hard for my soft, cushy bottom!
A watering can?
Not a chance! Too wet for my warm, sunny soul.
A pair of his favourite socks?
Never! Too dirty for my bright, gleaming heart.
“It’s hopeless, Little Benny!”
“I knew it, no wrapping is special enough!”
Am I not meant to be shared?
What is love if it isn’t shared?!
Little Benny calms me down.
Little Benny has a plan.
I have my doubts…
Love deserves special wrapping, you know.
But Little Benny convinces me to give it a try.
So we give it a try for Mom.
Carefully Little Benny wraps me up.
He wraps me in something soft but supportive, and cosy, but uncluttered.
“Happy Valentine’s Day, Mom!”
Slowly, I am revealed,
As Little Benny opens his hands…
Aww, he wrapped it in his hands?? I did not see that coming, how adorable! Well done, Laura!
Exactly! He wrapped love in his little hands :)Thank you so much!
This is so sweet. Love and Little Benny make a great team 🙂 Good luck!
Thanks so much, Marty!
So sweet! I like the unusual POV here.
Thanks Sarah!
Who says you can’t gift-wrap love? I LOVE that Benny found a way.❤️
Thanks Anne!
How sweet! I thought it might be wrapped in a hug as well!
Thanks so much Chel! A big hug definitely came after the unwrapping 🙂
That’s true!
ENTRY POSTED FOR DEBBIE
Daddy, Do You Love Me?
by Debbie Meneses
204 words
Daddy, do you love me? You hardly tell me so.
Maybe I am skeptical. Your words don’t always flow.
Daddy, do you miss me? You never hold me, though.
Maybe I am skeptical. You’re not for hugs, I know.
Daddy, do you hear me? You haven’t called me much,
Haven’t shown me where you go, or even told me such.
Daddy, do you see me? I’m hurting very much.
It’s been really hard for me. Why don’t you stay in touch?
Daddy, do you need me? You’ve walked about adrift.
You’ve lived beyond the shady tree, unstable and in shift.
Mama says you’re homeless. Your spirits need a lift.
Dad, I left a heart for you, a Valentine’s Day gift.
I wandered to that tree again. I saw my card had stayed.
This time I found a Valentine, a card that YOU had made.
I’ve read your letter once again, the message you relayed.
You’re sad, alone, and hurting too. You’ve been a bit afraid.
Daddy, now I realize, you’re feeling scared and low.
Meet me at this shady tree, to talk or wave hello.
I’ll come on Sunday mornings, hoping that you’ll show.
Dad, you are my Valentine. I’ve wanted you to know.
Debbie, I am in tears reading this. So well done, and such a heartfelt and emotional use of “skeptical”. Wow, I’m blown away at the direction you took. Thank you for adding some hope, what a beautiful ending ❤
Debbie, this is so beautiful and makes me want to call my Dad! What a moving message, thank you for sharing!
So heartfelt. What a great story!
Wow. What a touching, hard poem. It’s beautiful.
You brought tears to my eyes. Fantastic job tackling a tough subject. Well done.
Oh boy. Should have supplied myself with an arsenol of tissues before reading. Beautifully written. Many of my former students would unfortunately relate to your poignant story . But you also sprinkle in some hope.
ENTRY POSTED FOR ELIZABETH
Groundhog Oversleeps
by Elizabeth Thoms Charles
196 words
Gerry Groundhog stretched and leapt from bed.
“It’s here. It’s here. Groundhog Day is here.”
Gerry’s head popped out of the burrow. “Where are the lights, the cameras, the people?”
While combing his fur, Gerry wandered over to the neighbor’s hole. “Hi Francis.”
“Hi Gerry.”
“What are you doing,” Gerry asked?
“Getting ready for Valentine’s Day. We all give hearts; some are paper; some sweet.”
“What? That holiday doesn’t exist. Why would anyone do such a thing?”
“It expresses affection, caring.”
“That’s gross. This holiday doesn’t exist.”
“Silly. It can be romantic but it doesn’t have to. I’m giving these hearts to the neighbors as a sign of friendship,” Francis said.
“What? No. It’s all about shadows, cameras and publicity,” Gerry said.
“Actually, it’s not.”
“Want to help me, hand out Valentines,” Francis said.
“No. No. No,” Gerry said.
“Suit yourself.”
Francis scurried off. She dropped a paper heart and a candy heart at the neighbors’ burrows. She dashed back, dodging a hawk as she ran.
“Candy and paper Valentines for you, Gerry.”
“Oh.”
“This tastes good. Thank you,” Gerry said.
“You’re welcome,” Francis said.
“Happy Valentine’s Day.”
“Happy Valentine’s Day.”
Hawk circles with a Valentine.
Why not, huh? Groundhogs should have more to look forward to than just the paparazzi!
Valentine’s Day Dance Moves
By Stephanie Henson
208 words
stephahenson@msn.com @stepha_henson Twitter
Valentine’s Day at school is always electric.
The energy can be felt pulsating across desks,
through the tapping feet of excited children.
A sugar rush of crushes and notes of friendship.
And the Valentine’s Day class dance has everyone excited . . .
but not the new kid.
He was skeptical about this beloved holiday.
His heart was beating like a drum.
Not only because he’s at a new school but because he’s not very cool.
He stumbles across sentences and sidewalks.
He trips over toes and shoes.
He has two left feet!
How can he possibly not make a fool of himself?
Will anyone give him a chance at the dance?
Sometimes it takes a leap of faith to land smoothly.
Cards and candy are passed around the room.
The dance will begin soon.
Tummies flutter with nerves.
As the new kid opens an especially sparkly card with a disco ball on the outside,
he’s surprised at what’s on the inside.
A note that says “save a dance for me.”
From the most popular girl in class!
Maybe this holiday isn’t so bad after all!
All it takes is some confidence and convincing,
for views to be less skewed.
Cupid’s arrow has struck
and his dance moves are now unstuck!
Aw! What a nice, popular girl. It’s always tough being the new one.
You’ve successfully shown how one act of kindness can make such a big impact on someone. From the “uncool” kid having two left feet, now his dance moves are on fire. Great story!
Dragons are NOT Welcome!
by Maria P. Pope
214 Words
The magical creatures from Enchanted Woods were getting ready for their big Valentine’s Day Friendship Celebration!
Everyone but Petunia. Dragons were NOT welcome.
Last year, Petunia destroyed almost everything!
When she tried to help with the streamers…POOF! Her fiery breath set them ablaze.
When Petunia tried to string balloons …POP! They were no match for her razor-sharp claws.
When she adorned the table with chocolate hearts…PLOP! Her toasty touch melted them into puddles.
Everyone was invited to the party again this year.
Everyone but Petunia.
“Dragons are not good at parties!” they said.
Unfortunately, dragons love parties. And when dragons aren’t invited to parties, dragons get MAD.
This was NOT friendship!
Just as Unicorn was about to hang the last streamers, POOF! Up in flames they went.
“Was that Petunia?”
The gnomes finished blowing up the balloons when…POP!
“Oh no, not Petunia!”
When the fairies decorated with chocolate hearts …PLOP! Chocolate puddles.
“PETUUUNIIIIIIIA!!!”
Petunia fluttered down from above the trees.
“I just wanted to be part of the fun!” huffed Petunia, her tail between her legs.
Feeling bad for their friend, Unicorn, the fairies, and the gnomes put their heads together.
S’MORES!
Petunia’s fiery breath, razor-sharp claws, and toasty touch were perfect for chocolatey-gooey treats.
Everyone had a blast at the party.
Everyone…including Petunia.
This is so great, Maria! Poor Petunia, I’m glad they worked it out in the end. And I love that you worked in “Dragons love parties”. We all know it’s true 😉 !
Thanks so much! I had to give a nod to one of my favorites!😉
Yum! What a delicious Valentine’s compromise.
At the end of the day we all just want to be celebrated for our strengths 😉
I’m so glad they found a way to include Petunia. You just can’t help being a dragon!
Haha, fiery breath is so frustrating! Thanks for reading Chel!
Even Petunia was able to utilize her fiery breath and sharp claws after her friends finally gave her a chance. And what better way than helping make s’mores!!! This was so much fun to read.
Thanks so much Angie!
Guessy Bessy—Valentine Matchmaker (214 words)
by
Glenda Roberson
Bessy the cow was a wannabe matchmaker—an unsuccessful one.
On Valentine’s Day, Bessy convinced Boariss that Piglotta was sweet on him. She wasn’t.
Boariss complained to Roger Rooster. “It was only a pigment of her imagination.”
Roger sighed and nodded. “She’s more of a Guessy Bessy.”
Bessy told Ewenuss, “Rambo wants you to be his Valentine.” It wasn’t so.
Roger frowned and shook his head.
“You’re a baaad matchmaker, Bessy!” said Ewenuss. But that went in one ear and out the udder.
“Roger,” said Bessy, “Henrietta likes you a bushel and a peck.”
Roger cried fowl. “That’s a guess!”
“My matchmaking skills are impeckable,” Bessy huffed
Roger hoped she got this one right. He brought Henrietta a grasshopper, which she swallowed whole.
“Will you be mine, Henrietta?”
“That’s your idea of love?” Henrietta turned tail and strutted away.
Roger scratched the dirt and pondered what to do. Wasn’t a hopper enough? What else could she possibly want?
A pumpkin seed—rejected.
A caterpillar—nope!
Roger fumed. “You’re wrong again, Guessy Bessy!”
While flapping his wings during a dust bath, it came to him.
He put his wing around Henrietta, “Will you be my Valentine?”
Henrietta cluck-clucked and fluffed her feathers. “About time you finally put a wing on it.”
“Bessy,” Roger crowed, “you’re a match-making genius!”
Love all the wordplay and silliness! Good luck, Glenda!
Thanks so much, Marty!
Love how punderful and playful this story is. SO MUCH FUN!
Thanks a bunch, Sarah!
Your story has so many creative puns and such brilliant barnyard humor, Glenda. (“Put a wing on it.” LOL.) I love how you wrap it up with Roger’s realization that love is the greatest gift of all.❤️
Awww, thanks Anne!
Oh my goodness; what a lot of fun, animal puns and cute descriptions. 🙂 Happy to hear Bessy was a genius after all!
Thank you so much!
This was so lively and entertaining. The word play was incredibly funny. Especially loved the line “about time you finally put a wing on it.” Clever!!!
Thank you, Angie!
Card Tricks
By Deborah Foster
214 Words
Every February 14th Abigail made valentines for everyone, Mom, Grandpa, their grocery delivery man, and even the cat.
But she refused to make one for her older brother Shaun!
He was always playing cruel tricks on her; jumping out of dark hallways, putting dye in her shampoo, and claiming that her hamster died. (It really didn’t!)
So, when she came home from school to find a valentine that read:
To: Abigail
From: Your loving brother, Shaun
She knew it had to be another trick!
Abigail eyed the valentine, looking for fishing line traps.
She poked it to see if it made any strange noises.
She asked Mom to open it for her, but Mom was too busy feeding her baby brother.
Ever so carefully, Abigail lifted the card from the counter.
She flinched – waiting for an evil surprise…
But nothing happened.
Holding her breath and closing her eyes, she flipped open the card.
She peeked…
The card read:
Dear Squirt,
You are an amazing Sister!
Happy V-day,
Shaun.
Awe, Abigail thought. Maybe her brother had a sweet side after all.
But that’s when she heard it…
*CLICK*
tick-tick-tick
*POOF*
Glitter rained down, covering Abigail.
“Got Ya! Happy Valentine’s Day, Squirt!”
“Grrr. Next year I’ll make you a very, very special Valentine’s card,” Abigail mumbled.
Love this sibling love!
Thank you for the feedback, Lauri!
That ending made me chuckle. Love this sibling story!
Thank you Sarah!
Too good to be true! Funny story and sometimes pretty accurate for siblings.
*Inspired by a Christmas Present my brother gave my daughter one year!*
That is one creative brother!
Abigail is probably still picking out glitter from her hair! Lesson learned: Never lower your guard with an older brother. Fun story!
ENTRY POSTED FOR KELLY
SLEEPING BEAUTY WAKES UP
Kelly Kates
The prince used his sword to hack through the locked door. He burst into the chamber and–finally–there she was, sleeping peacefully. He crept close and leaned in with a kiss. “Please be my valentine.”
She sprang up and screamed. “Who are you? What are you doing in my bedroom?”
“I have come to save you. Your kingdom has been asleep for 100 years and my kiss broke the evil spell. Now we can be valentines forever!”
“Are you crazy? I don’t even know you. I’m sure I’ve got the worst case of bed head in history. And talk about morning breath!”
“But I defeated the evil dragon and fought my way through thorns and fire to get to you.”
“And I really appreciate that, but what would help me right now is if you could tell me where to get a burger. I’m starving!”
This was not going according to Prince Charming’s plan. Sleeping Beauty felt badly seeing him look so disappointed.
“I am sure you are a great guy, but I have a lot to catch up on. Family, friends . . . So what do people do for fun these days?”
“Well . . . there is this new game called pickleball and I’ve been looking for someone to play with me.”
“Now that sounds like a date!”
““Are you crazy? I don’t even know you. I’m sure I’ve got the worst case of bed head in history. And talk about morning breath!” – LOL.
Kelly ~ I loved this modern take on Sleeping Beauty.
This story made me smile. What a fun valentiny fractured fairy tale!
I would totally ask for a hamburger, then maybe pickleball. 😀
Where are the Valentines?
By Sherry Roberts
WC: 214
Mila and Chrissy are best friends, but today Chrissy is grumpy with everyone. Especially her friend, Mila. Nothing is making Chrissy happy.
Mila tries to ask Chrissy what’s wrong, but Chrissy turns her back. Mila couldn’t figure out why her best friend is being so mean.
Usually, Chrissy is a fun friend but not today. She keeps throwing her arms in the air and yelling.
“What’s wrong with you? Are you mad at me?” Mila wants to know. “Did I do something wrong?”
Chrissy gives a huff and looks around. Finally, she whispers. “No one gave me a Valentine. I saw kids put Valentines in your box but not mine.”
“What? Did you look in your box?” Mila asks. Chrissy nods. “Maybe you should look again. I’ll go with you.”
“It won’t matter. No one likes me.”
Gabbing Chrissy’s hand, Mila ran to check their Valentine’s boxes.
Chrissy watches as Mila opens hers. “See, you got so many, but I know my box is empty.” Chrissy began to cry.
Mila hands Chrissy’s box to her. “Just look.” There inside were beautiful cards, even some with lollipops. Chrissy couldn’t stop smiling.
“They do like me.”
“You looked to soon. Not everyone had handed out their cards.”
Together the girls laughed and read all their cards.
Now, that’s friendship. It’s hard to be patient when your friend is being so prickly.
VALENTINO’S IN LOVE!
Marty Bellis
214 wc
The flower shop hummed with excitement, as customers made selections for their special someones.
Valentino hummed with excitement, too, as he entered the shop.
He’d find the perfect valentine for Francesca and win her heart.
He sniffed the red roses.
Mmmm, nice. But . . . not quite right.
He checked the crinkly pink carnations.
Frilly, yes. Right for Francesa?
No, he didn’t think so.
Daisies?
All Valentino could think of was, “Loves me; loves me NOT!”
Can’t take that chance, he thought.
Valentino stopped humming.
What to do? Nothing felt right.
He’d never win Francesca with any of these.
He drooped, letting out a sad sigh.
Then a philodendron plant caught his eye.
It was green, glossy, and best of all, had . . .
. . . heart-shaped leaves!
Hum. Hum. Hum!
Would this do?
Still uncertain, Valentino pondered.
Then sighed again.
Nooo. Too smooth. Too plain. Francesca deserved . . .
THAT!
His eyes lit up!
Valentino bought it on the spot, adding his message:
‘This reminded me of you. Be my Valentine?’
Gathering his courage, he delivered it straight away.
Francesca took one look at the prickly, plump, pretty little cactus,
ruffled her perfect porcupine quills, and said sweetly,
“I’m stuck on you, too. We were made for each other.”
Valentino’s hedgehog heart flip-flopped.
And he hum hum hummed . . . all the way home!
This is so sweet! I love the different flowers/plants and the delightful twist.
Thanks, Sarah.
Oh I just love Valentino! He’s the best.
Thanks, Christina.
Oh, romantic Valentino! I absolutely love the surprise here too 🙂 Well done, Marty!!
Thanks so much for your comments!
Adorable. Great buildup and a fun, happy ending. 🙂
Thank you so much, Chel!
POOF POOF!
By Stephanie K. Mena
214 words
Alex went exploring after last night’s wicked weather knocked down trees, tore tall grasses, and even crashed bird-like objects.
“What kind of feather is this?” Alex thought.
A few steps further, he found three more.
“Owe,” Casey whimpered rubbing his wing.
“Are these yours?”
“I couldn’t find shelter.”
“What kind of a bird are you?”
“I’m not a bird. My wings got twisted around the quiver. Feathers flew everywhere! I broke two arrows,” Casey pouted.
“You’re not a bird. You have arrows, a quiver and wings. Who are you?”
“I only fly once a year.” Casey sighed.
“You fly only in February…. with arrows…You’re Cupid!”
“I bring happiness.”
“HUMBUG!”
“That’s Scrooge’s line, Alex.”
“I wrapped your wing. It’s all good.”
“Thanks. You’re not a fan of Valentine’s Day?”
“BAH!”
“Still Scrooge’s line. This cat and dog are on my list. They fight non-stop. Two quick arrows aimed at their butts, POOF POOF!”
“Let’s stop fighting, friend.”
“Sure, buddy. Happy Valentine’s Day.”
“You help animals, too?”
“Furry friends need love, too.”
“Valentine’s Day only sells candy and cards.”
“Look who’s next. Remember Mikey?”
“He’s a crybaby? He’s annoying. He’s a pest.”
“He’s your cousin.”
“Hi, Alex!”
“Oh, great. Hi, Mikey.”
POOF POOF!
“Owe, my butt!
Happy Valentine’s Day.
Every one!”
“Tiny Tim’s last line, Alex.”
This is fun and original. Way to go Stephanie!
Thank you Kathleen. Happy Valentine’s Day
This is so cute! Love the humor throughout.
Thank you. I love sharing smiles.
😀 I’m a bit of a humbug, too. I guess I need an arrow!
But there’s always a happy ending 🙂 Thank you for reading my story.
‘Gloomy Gus’
Marty Bellis
208 wc
“I’m making the new neighbor a Valentine,” said Toby.
“You mean ‘Gloomy Gus’? Why bother?” said his sister, Nan.
“I don’t know. I just think he might be lonely – or sad – or . . . “
Toby didn’t really know, because ‘Gus’ refused to talk to him.
But Toby did know he wanted to try.
“I’m drawing a funny picture to cheer him up.”
“Nothing can cheer up that sourpuss,” said Nan.
“And I’m adding a candy bar. That should make him smile.”
“He never smiles.”
“Well, maybe he’s shy. I’ll take Sam along. Everyone loves dogs.”
“I don’t think it will work.” Nan shrugged.
Toby finished the card and snapped on Sam’s leash.
‘Gus’ was sitting on his front step.
Toby held out the Valentine. “I made this for you.”
‘Gus’ just stared.
Toby tried again. “This is Sam.”
Then a woman opened the door.
“Hola,” she said, followed by a string of words Toby didn’t understand.
Except . . . now he did understand.
“Toby,” he said, pointing to himself, “and Sam.”
Sam sniffed ‘Gus’s’ hand, then licked it.
“Ricardo,” said the boy, smiling.
Toby smiled back, held out the candy bar, and sat down to show Ricardo the card he’d made.
He liked the name Ricardo.
It was much nicer than ‘Gus!’
What a great way to greet a new neighbor!
Thanks for your comment, Katie.
What a sweet story! I like Toby’s determination to be kind.
And I love your determination to read so many entries 🙂 Thanks, Sarah!
Love this surprise twist in the ending!!! What a heart-warming story 🙂
So glad you liked it. Thanks for taking time to comment!
Sweet story! I’m happy they figured things out and were able to start the friendship.
Appreciate your comments, Chel. Thanks!
Love is an Adventure (214 words)
By Lauri C. Meyers
Dad unwrapped a balloon. Mom opened a scarf.
“You guys give boring Valentine’s gifts,” I said.
“Boring?” Dad gawked. “These remind us of falling in love.”
“Literally falling! I skydived past your Dad’s hot air balloon,” Mom explained. “He was cute, so I yelled ‘Call me!’”
I raised my eyebrows. Mom doesn’t skydive!
“But I didn’t know her number!” Dad said. “Luckily, the next day while bull riding, I saw your mother in a barrel. I yelled, ‘Number?’ Then I got bucked off.”
“I miss rodeo clowning,” Mom sighed
I rolled my eyes. Dad hate clowns!
“The next week, I was snowshoeing a glacier. Your Dad raced by on a dog sled. I yelled, ‘534-’”
“But a polar bear chased me away! I couldn’t hear the rest.”
My mouth hung open. My parents hate snow!
“Later that month, I flipped my kayak in a dangerous swamp,” Dad whispered.
“I was training alligators nearby. I heard the splash,” Mom said. “Snappy Al married us right then and there.”
“An alligator married you?!” I squinted at them. “How did you really fall in love?”
They winked. “Open your gift!”
“A week at Pirate Adventure Camp?” I read the pamphlet. “Plank diving! Shark riding! Sword fighting!”
“Create your own story about falling in love … with adventure.”
These parents are a hoot! It’s such a cute story—good luck in the contest.
For every kid who thinks their parents are boring … love it!
This is so much fun! I love the variety of hilarious adventures and the skeptical main character. Nicely done.
“I miss rodeo clowning!” LOL – love that!
This is too funny! Loved reading it. Good luck!
Nah; adults are all boring. We never do anything but sit and talk… 😀
A fun, engaging adventure from start to finish! Love the character dynamics here. Well done!
FANTASTIC FOX FATHER
By Kathleen Jacobs
212 Words
Fox delivered heart-shaped cards to Owl and Cardinal and …
Carrot valentines to Rabbit and her kin.
Done with his rounds, Fox spied three orphaned skunks.
“Mew, mew, mew,” they cried.
“Matron Hedgehog is away,” he said. “But I’ll take good care of you until she returns.”
“You don’t know a thing about babies!” Rabbit said. “Give them to me.”
Baby bunnies hopped EVERYWHERE so Fox replied. “I’ll manage.”
“Feed them shredded worms,” Owl advised.
“Regurgitated food is the way to go,” Cardinal added.
Rabbit raised an eyebrow. “Baby mammals need milk!”
Fox prepared the bottles.
He fed them milk.
And more milk.
And even more milk!
He changed stinky diapers.
Goodness, feeding time again!
But when the skunks nuzzled against him, his heart skipped a beat.
Fox wanted to be their father. FOREVER!
Before long, the skunks opened their eyes and followed him everywhere.
Fox fed them berries for breakfast and lettuce for lunch.
When they were ready, he taught them how to dig for worms.
“How sweet,” Owl and Cardinal said.
“They’re my Valentine Daughters,” Fox said as he scooped them into a big fox hug.
“Papa, papa, papa!” the skunks sang.
“I say!” Rabbit exclaimed. “This is most irregular. However, you’ve proved yourself
to be a fantastic fox father!”
“Goodness, feeding time again!” – you perfectly captures both work and charm of taking care of 3 little ones. This is such a sweet story!
So sweet!
😀 I wonder if skunks’ diapers would be any more stinky than other newborns…
AMY ATE MY VALENTINE
By Ruthie Nicklaus
214 words
“MOM! Amy ate my valentine!”
My sneaky baby sister bounced on the couch, chewing something. Probably my valentine.
I made a Valentine’s Day card for my teacher, Ms. Milli. It was a pink paper airplane with a red panda (her favorite) and glitter glue on the wings, but I forgot to sign, LOVE ZACH.
“Check your backpack.” Mom called.
I checked. No card.
I flopped on the floor.
But then…
“What IS all this, under the couch?” Marbles, cheerios, a feather. A lot of dust. Amy’s binky. The remote control, the glitter glue. Pink paper. “My valentine!”
I tried to squeeze under, stretching my arm as far as I could. Not far enough. And I couldn’t move it. That couch was heavy!
“Amy do it!” My sister scooted lizard-style on her belly.
Her diapered bottom disappeared, fast. Only her pajama feet poked out.
“What’s that scuffling?” Mom called.
“Nothing!” I lied. No way Mom would be ok with the baby crawling under there.
But then Amy popped out with dust in her hair, the feather stuck to her nose and the card in her fist!
“You did it!”
Amy squealed, delighted.
I ruffled her dusty hair.
She shared her crusty cheerios.
I bounced on the couch with my gutsy baby sister.
“I love you.”
Aww … baby to the rescue!
So sweet! I love how Amy saves the day.
Ha ha! My kids would totally do this, especially the part about sharing crusty Cheerios. I love it.
ENTRY POSTED FOR STEVE
THE GREAT VALENTINO by Steve Jankousky (214 words)
It started in January. Dad asked, “Did you take out the trash? You know, The Great Valentino is watching…”
Then school started. “Did you finish your homework? The Great Valentino is watching.”
He asked me to help put away laundry. “You know…”
“The Great Valentino is watching. I know. I know! But who is this Great Valentino?”
So Dad says, “On Valentine’s Eve, The Great Valentino flies through the air on a heart-shaped box of chocolates carried by eight cupids. He delivers valentines and treats to all the good people of the world.”
What? How come I’ve never heard of this before?
So I asked my friends. My teachers. Even the cooks in the lunch line. Nobody ever heard of The Great Valentino!
“Really?” asked Dad. “So you don’t believe in The Great Valentino? There are two ways to test your skepticism. Keep being a good kid and see what happens. Or don’t, and see what happens.”
Aaaaagh! Those were rotten choices!
So I was good. And on Valentine’s Day, there was a valentine and a big box of cookies for me!
At least I could quit worrying about The Great Valentino.
Then Dad asked, “Are you taking those cookies to school? There’s plenty to share. You know, the Easter Bunny is watching…”
If being stalked by an Elf on a Shelf wasn’t enough for you … imaginary surveillance state every month! Poor kiddos.
This is so much fun! I love The Great Valentino. I read this aloud to my daughter (5) and she is onboard, asking me if TGV is watching us. lol!
That is one smart dad. 😀
ENTRY POSTED FOR ELYSE
Sallie Skunk Skips Valentine’s Day
By Elyse Trevers
(197 Words)
Can’t go to school today!
Got a tickle in my throat,
pain in my belly,
ache in my head.
“But you’ll miss the Valentine celebration.
What about the cards you and gifts you made for your friends?”
What friends? thought Sallie
Ever since that awful ‘accident,’
the smell she couldn’t control,
she felt alone.
She was skeptical about having any friends left.
“No one will want to be with me.”
So Sallie stayed home
and sulked and sobbed.
The day passed.
Boring…
Wonder what everyone’s doing now?
Bet no one misses me.
“I doubt anyone notices that I’m not there. ”
A tear rolled down her face.
Then the doorbell rang. Her friends stood there bearing Valentine gifts.
“We missed you so we brought Valentine’s Day to you! ”
“I didn’t think you’d be friends with me anymore since my ‘accident.’”
“What kind of friends do you think we are? You are our good friend.”
“You laugh at my sly tricks,” said Ferdie Fox.
“You never mind my ‘trash’ talk,” said Rosa Raccoon.
“You always wait for me to catch up,” added Simon Sloth.
True friends are always there for you –
for the good and the bad…and the smelly.
Sweet story!
A great final line! You are right.
P.S. I LIKE YOU (158 WORDS)
DEAR CLASS,
Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day—a day to share our hearts with one another! Please write a Valentine for each of your classmates explaining what you love about them. NO EXCEPTIONS. Have fun!
LOVE,
MRS. FERG
DEAR TOBY,
Mrs. Ferg says we have to write Valentines to everyone in class. Everyone! I guess that includes you. I’m not sure I have much to say, if I’m being honest. But here goes nothing.
Your feet stink. Your hair looks crazy. And your fascination with ferrets is frustrating.
Happy Valentine’s Day.
LOVE,
KATIE
P.S. I think you’re sort of cute.
DEAR KATIE,
Mrs. Ferg made me write this, just so you know. I am not a fan of Valentines Day AT ALL. But, since I don’t have a choice, here goes nothing.
Your scrunchies are silly. Your glittery lunchbox is boring. And your dislike for dinosaurs is disappointing.
Happy Valentine’s Day.
LOVE,
TOBY
P.S. I like you.
Haha, “your fascination with ferrets is frustrating.” Love it, Emily!
This is so sweet and charming! I love the animal lines. “And your dislike for dinosaurs is disappointing” made me laugh.
Emily, this is so cute and funny! I’m pretty sure this is how I started “dating” my first grade boyfriend. It lasted one whole day.
Love it! This one takes me right back to elementary school.😜
This story definitely needs to expand to include even more of the kids in the class. It’s a great premise and I want to read even more!!
ENTRY POSTED FOR NIKKI
Tucker Turtle’s Valentine’s Day Doubts
Nikki Del Vecchio
207
“Don’t forget your Valentine’s cards tomorrow!” Miss Bunny said as she dismissed the class.
While the other students looked forward to passing out cards, Tucker Turtle was nervous. He’s always been quieter than his classmates. He wasn’t sure they even noticed him, and doubted anyone would put a Valentine in his box.
Still, Tucker spent the evening personalizing cards for the others. It took so long he didn’t have time to decorate his card box. He decided it was better not to draw attention to the box that would surely be empty, anyway.
The next day, everyone lined up to deliver their cards. Tucker went last so no one would feel bad about forgetting him.
“Okay, class. You may open your boxes.” Miss Bunny said.
Tucker sat quietly and watched as his classmates chatted and opened their boxes. He picked up his box to hide it away, but it was heavier than expected.
Hesitantly, Tucker lifted the lid. He couldn’t believe it; his box was full of cards!
Tucker looked around and saw his classmates eagerly waiting to see him open to their cards. Each one was special just for him. Tucker smiled and joined in the celebration. His heart was as full as his Valentine’s box.
This is a sweet story, and I LOVE the last line.
How sweet! This is so much like the story I wrote; I guess we both love shy turtles. 🙂
A Skeptical Skunk Named Scottie
by Sally Yorke-Viney
Word Count: 180
A skeptical skunk named Scottie,
Had a friend that he liked, called Dottie.
He doubted his worth,
As he dug in the earth,
With his nose to the ground, he was snotty!
He doubted and questioned his merit,
Unsure as a flat-footed ferret!
He wanted to bring,
A valentine thing,
Uncertain, he should even dare it!
He hoped he could tell her his feeling,
But instead of a coo, he was squealing!
“I like you” he hissed.
“Why can’t we co-exist?
You may think my stink is appealing.”
Dottie turned as she heard all the racket,
Looked at Scottie’s smart black and white jacket.
“While your nose may be snotty,
At least you’re not haughty!
Believe in yourself, you can hack it!”
Disbelieving, he smiled, and he snorted,
With Dottie he jumped and cavorted!
He gave her a grub,
‘Neath an evergreen shrub!
He truly felt loved and supported!
So, this story of lack of self-worth,
Of a skeptic who dug in the earth,
Had a non-stinky end,
When he found a true friend,
Filled with Valentine sweetness and mirth!
Such a bouncy fun story, Sally! Glad Scottie found a true friend in the end.
I’ve been skeptical about finding romance, too. Glad it worked out for Scotty (and me!). Great rhythm and rhyme!
Dear Angie, thanks for your comment, friendship is so important!
There’s someone for everyone, I guess! 🙂
Friendship that doesn’t stink, I think! Thanks Chel for your comment!
ENTRY RE-POSTED FOR KAY
A Perfect Valentine Card About You
Kay Medway
Create and craft Valentine’s Day cards here today.
That’s what the Creative Kids Club’s sign seemed to sing and shout out to the busy room, shaping cupid’s arrow in gold and collecting paper collage hearts in crimson red, candyfloss, and cerise pink vibrant colours were what we had to do.
We were sceptical about using blossom colour confetti and our favourite fluorescent orange and green paints and patterns.
I said the poster paint is perfect for painting pumpkins, slime and potions in October’s holidays.
The sparkling silver sequins can create a surprise at Christmas time.
I doubt we will need these dinosaur prints to decorate our paper pages today.
My friends were still feeling doubtful that we had the colours and creations to make Valentine’s Day celebrated.
But I stopped and said hey, I have a memory.
That Valentine’s Day can be for everyone, and what interests you is bright on this day of hearts and flowers as every other time of year.
I can paint and pencil a watercolour rose in bloom.
But I am sure I’ll choose a poem about your favourite place in nature or a joke and spaceships too.
Everyone’s creations are different and unique.
That’s the joy of arts and crafts and friendship too.
Sounds perfect to me!
A STICKY VALENTINE’S DAY INVITATION (213 words)
By Angela Calabrese
Letter L waved his invitation. “R U going?”
“Going where?” asked V.
“The Vowel’s Valentine’s Day party.”
V pouted. “I wasn’t invited.”
“Of course, I was invited. He’s a vowel and helped plan the party.”
V grumbled. “I meant I as in me, silly! I’m not invited.”
“They wouldn’t leave U out!” said L.
“U wasn’t left out. They left me out! Me! Me! Me!”
“OK. Chill!” snapped L.
H overheard. “I can C Y you’re upset, V, but the Vowels are your friends. Y wouldn’t they invite you?”
V shrugged. “Beats me.”
“Something doesn’t jive.” H said. “Maybe your invitation is wedged in back of your mailbox.”
“Let’s check and C,” said V.
No such luck.
H frowned. “It’s MT.”
“An EZ solution,” said L, “would be to simply ask the vowels.”
V gasped. “Y?”
L sighed. “So U can find out the truth!”
Just then, M sprinted toward V. “I didn’t C this before, V. Sorry!”
V scratched her head. “Didn’t C what?”
M cleared his throat. “This.”
A second invitation was stuck to M’s.
It was addressed to:
Miss Letter V
22 Alphabet Lane,
Lettertown, USA.
M handed V her sticky invitation.
“Mystery solved,” said L.
“I think you know what to do now,” said H.
V giggled. “RSVP ASAP!”
You had a good time with letters!
A letter and word nerd! LOL.
Ha! Reminded me of the classic Who’s on first? routine. Very clever!
After writing it, I realized that it did resemble that skit. Thanks for taking the time to read it.
Omagosh! This oozes cleverness. I am impressed and delighted. Good luck in the contest!
Thank you so much for taking the time to read it, Heather.
I agree with Heather! This is fabulous! Does Y get to be a host at the Vowel Party *and* the Consonant Party? Y not, right?
Thank you, Jesse! Love your idea of Y being the host for both events. I’m sure the letters would be OK with that.
What a clever story and title! Great job! 🙂
You are sweet to take the time to read it! Thank you.
This was so very clever. Thanks for the fun story!
Wonderful, innovative, this would be a wonderful book for students that incorporates letter recognition, writing, friendship and playful language! Love it!
Matilda’s New Job
By Jesse Anna Bornemann
Word Count: 206
Life as a shoebox was perfectly sweet—
Matilda loved shoes, and she didn’t mind feet.
She wasn’t in search of a change or a switch.
When it came to risk-taking, she just lacked the itch.
So, Matilda was filled with an odd sense of dread
When a small hand removed her from under the bed.
The hand of a kid! Now, what could that mean?
Matilda held loafers—a men’s size 13.
The kid grabbed some ribbons, red paper, and tape.
Matilda could see a new job taking shape.
This role would be tricky, if not downright hard.
Goodbye, dear old shoes. Hello, Valentine’s cards!
When she got to the classroom, Matilda’s lid shook.
She wasn’t quite sure that she had what it took.
Like a tight pair of sneakers, this job might not fit.
(Still, her glitter felt lovely, she had to admit.)
Somewhere behind her, she heard several squeals.
“Did you once store loafers? We carried high heels!”
“Gym shoes for me,” growled a deep baritone.
Matilda soon gathered she wasn’t alone.
No longer uncertain, she shimmied with glee!
“Everyone’s new here—it isn’t just me!”
She’d rise to this challenge! She knew that she could.
And what’s more, she noticed…the cards tasted good.
I did not see that ending coming–nicely done! I love the quirky sweetness of this one.
Thank you! I didn’t think I was going to be able to come up with anything for the Valentiny contest this year, but I got inspired by my messy shoe collection!
I used to love decorating shoe boxes. What a great idea to tell your story from the point of view of the box! Great rhyme and rythym, too. Love this!
Aww, this one made me laugh! Just finished wrapping-papering-ing a shoe box for preschool Valentine’s Day.
Thanks, Katie! Same here—just decorated a box for my 2nd grader’s Valentine’s Day party! Fortunately, my 2 year old’s class doesn’t need boxes this year. I’m not sure I have the mental energy for two “Matildas.” 🙂
Oh, I feel certain you are the first person on Earth ever to have personified a shoebox. Now that’s thinking “outside the box”! This is beautifully rhymed and characterized. Fun all the way through to the surprising ending!
Well, that would be a feat (pun most certainly intended)! Thanks so much! Loved yours too, as I knew I would!
What a cute story! Perfect rhyme as well!
😉
This is SO MUCH FUN! I loved reading it aloud to my daughter. At the end, she shrieked, “What?! She ate the cards?” and we laughed. Love the rhyme, quirky main character, and delightful ending. Nicely done!
Awww, thanks, Sarah! I had a rough start to Monday, and your kind comment has totally made my day.
I’m glad! Hope your Monday gets better and better.
Natural rhyming, a fresh and clever perspective on a Valentine’s story, some original details (“Like a tight pair of sneakers, this job might not fit” – great simile!), and humor: this one’s a total winner, Jesse!
Thank you! The generous word count worked in my favor—anything shorter makes me shake in my boots!
I am in awe, Jessica, of how you’ve taken your highly original concept and run with it! I love how you evoke Matilda’s trepidation, transformation, and sense of togetherness with her fellow boxes. You have given a shoe box soul.❤️
Wow, this is the nicest compliment, Anne! Thank you! ❤
What a brilliant idea, creating a believable character for a shoebox! Personification at its best. You not only pulled it off but actually made me feel like Matilda had a real heart and “sole.” Incredibly well done, Jesse.
Thank you so much! Loved your clever story, too. I’m glad we’re neighbors in this competition!
If boxes could talk, eh? That’s pretty much what we save shoeboxes for, too!
It’s definitely what we save them for at my house! We successfully turned a shoebox into a taco for my 2nd grader’s card exchange yesterday. Hope the box was happy about it . . . the kid was!
That sounds awesome! We bailed and just used a Costco Oreo cookie container (I convinced my son it was funny because they’d expect it to be full of cookies and it was full of his valentines instead!). Your taco sounds way better.
Haven’t we all decorated a shoebox, and this shoebox has a great personality. I enjoyed reading your story.
ENTRY POSTED FOR ISABEL
Skeptical V-Day
Author: Isabel Cruz Rodriguez
Word Count: 67
Skeptical Miss Skeptical
Not easily convinced
Sat pretty on the park bench
Wondering if I’d commit.
Skeptical receptacle
I washed and then I rinsed
Convinced that it’s acceptable
To hold the buds I picked.
“Hello, Miss Little Skeptical,
I love you” then, I winced.
Just as she planted one big kiss
And I was then convinced
For me and for Miss Skeptical
This V-Day would be bliss!
‘Skeptical receptacle’ is so fun to say. Fun poem!
Skeptical/receptacle and winced/convinced make some pretty terrific rhyming partners. Sounds like Miss Skeptical isn’t so skeptical any longer!
Isabel, that great big kiss was really convincing, wasn’t it? Good job and good luck! Thanks for sharing!
Hi, SusannaI submitted my entry: Skeptical V-Day Thanks again for your FUN contests……I look forward to them each year!Happy Super Bowl Sunday!BlessingsIsabel——————————————————-
My pleasure, Isabel! Hope your team wins…whichever one it is 😊
ENTRY POSTED FOR MARY
Groundhog’s Party
By Mary Rudzinski
212 words
Three o’clock and Groundhog’s party guests would soon arrive. He tidied the candy hearts and poured pink lemonade for Possum, Raccoon and Skunk..
Red balloons. Cherry drops. Best of all, chocolate cupcakes with marshmallow frosting.
Then he watched the clock.
At 3:15, Groundhog peeked out his hole.
He listened for Possum’s mumbling, watched for Raccoon’s beautiful face, and sniffed the air for Skunk.
No sounds or smells or… friends.
He paced the floor.
Groundhog had made sure to deliver each invitation in person.
Where were his friends?
Maybe Possum forgot- Possum even forgot his own birthday.
Perhaps Raccoon lost track of time in his garden.
Skunk probably took a nap- Skunk liked naps.
Groundhog decided to find his friends.
But Possum was not at home.
Raccoon’s hole was empty.
Skunk did not answer his door.
Was everyone at another party?
Did everyone forget the invitation?
Maybe they forgot me, thought Groundhog.
He trudged home.
But there, under his oak tree, sat Possum, Raccoon and Skunk… each with a marshmallow mustache.
“Where have you been? The cupcakes are delicious!” they shouted.
“ I tried to find you- I thought you forgot!”
“Never! Your Valentine’s parties are the best ever! And you are unforgettable!”
Groundhog smiled and took a big bite of a cupcake.
So glad they all turned up. Cute story!
Trudged is the perfect verb to fit how Groundhog is feeling as he goes home, and I love that everyone has a marshmallow mustache – it’s nicely alliterative, and a great image!
A Recipe for Friend Chip
by Cheryl Simon
180 words
Chocolate Chip was the happiest ingredient in the bakery.
After all,
he was the yummiest,
the most popular,
and could blend with anyone.
Mixing into cookies, brownies, cakes…
life was sweeter with Chocolate Chip.
Chocolate Chip was busy baking up a plan for Valentine’s Day.
“I’ve got everything I knead for a delicious treat,” melted Chip.
Suddenly, the bakery door burst open!
“It’s crunch time!” said Potato Chip.
“What are YOU doing here?” cried Chocolate Chip
“I’m here for the new Valentine’s Day recipe.”
“I’m the only Chip in town!” said Chocolate Chip, sounding salty.
Mrs. Baker appeared “You two Chips better start getting along! I’m adding you both to the mix.”
Chocolate Chip crumbled, “How can you take the whisk? Everyone loves sweet treats on Valentine’s Day.”
Mrs. Baker replied, “Don’t be so bitter. This salty sweet combination is a legend in the baking.”
Chocolate Chip decided to dough with it.
Sometimes you need to mix it up to make the world a butter place, he thought.
A new friend chip was born and it couldn’t have been sweeter.
These puns were the best! That, and I am a huge fan of potato chips with chocolate.
Throughout your clever story, you created wonderful word play and a great message to take to heart.
Delicious! I love all the puns and the ways this story plays on two kinds of chip (“a new friend chip was born” – ha!). It’s making me want to a recipe, too!
A Valentine’s Surprise
By Sue Lancaster (126 words)
These cupcakes look delicious,
but they’re making me suspicious;
Has someone left these tasty treats for me?
The icing looks inviting,
with its bright-red swirly writing.
A message made of sugar… meant for me?
My nose is actually twitching,
for their smell is SO bewitching.
It’s clear that someone thinks the world of me.
My mouth is salivating…
I can’t wait, I’m going straight in.
Yummy-yum! They taste incredible to me.
Oh, look… Here comes my master!
But – oh-no – I sense disaster.
Perhaps the cupcakes were not left for me?
He’s yelling… yep, he’s mad.
This is really, really bad.
Apparently, the words were: MARRY ME?
I’ve spoiled his big surprise,
So, despite these puppy eyes,
I guess it’s in the doghouse now for me.
Bad dog! Good story! 🙂
LOL! Anyone who has a dog can relate to this one. Good luck in the contest.
Aww! Poor puppy in the doghouse. This is so cute. It’s delightful to read aloud.
Sue, your rhyme and meter are spot-on, and this is a sweet treat for the reader—if not for the baker. Still, he will always have a great story to tell!
This was so much fun to read. You built up the suspense so well! Poor little puppy couldn’t help himself!
It’s an easy mistake for a dog to make, haha.
😀 Can’t blame a dog for being a dog, especially when you leave treats out!
Love this story. And a great twist at the end.
I didn’t realize it was a dog at first, so that made for a fun twist. Also, I like all the repetition of “me” at the end of every third line – and the way each one tells a slightly different piece of the story. Twitching/bewitching and delicious/suspicious – great rhymes! Nicely done!
ENTRY POSTED FOR DAWN
Dawn Renee Young
Skeptical (WC 214)
NO MAIL FOR R-E-X
Every day, Rex checked the mailbox.
Every day, he examined each piece of mail, looking for the letters R-E-X.
He sorted envelopes in one pile and advertisements in another.
No R-E-X!
I’ll never get mail.
Mom, Dad, and Sissy get mail almost every day.
Maybe no one knows where I live.
Rex made a sign and taped it to the mailbox.
R-E-X Lives Here!
“Why don’t I ever get mail?” Rex asked Mom.
“You’ll get mail when you are older.”
“I doubt it.”
“Dad, why don’t I ever get mail?”
“Sometimes you have to send mail in order to receive mail.”
“I don’t know how to write letters.”
Valentine’s Day is coming. I’m going to draw Grandma a
picture and ask Sissy to mail it.
Grandma will send me mail.
But she probably won’t. She’s always busy!
On Monday … No mail for Rex.
On Tuesday … No mail for Rex.
On Wednesday … No mail for Rex.
On Thursday … No mail for Rex.
Did my sign blow away?
On Friday the sign was still hanging by a thread … No mail for Rex.
On Valentine’s Day,
Rex tugged open the mailbox.
He couldn’t believe his eyes …
Out popped a balloon with the letters R-E-X …
and an envelope from Grandma.
Poor R-E-X! This is so cute. I’m glad Rex got a happy Valentine’s Day ending.
Just you wait, R-E-X; you’ll get way too many letters when you’re older! What a nice grandma to make sure his first mailed present was a nice surprise!
We’re all happy for R-E-X and a nice teachable moment with the days of the week.
The repetition of days is effective, showing all the waiting Rex is doing – I’m glad he gets a happy ending!
REFRIGERDATING
By Jenna Elyse Johnson
204 words
Mom’s acting strange.
She’s dancing, when there’s no music.
She’s laughing, when nothing’s funny.
And she’s cooking, when we ordered take-out. (Heart-shaped pizza pie!)
“I’ve been struck by cupid’s arrow! I have a new love!” Mom declares.
“What? Mom, I think you’re taking Valentine’s Day a bit far…”
Dad’s only been out of town for a few days.
And I don’t think Mom would date anyone else…
Time to investigate.
“So, who’s the guy?” I ask, flipping my notebook open.
“He’s cool. Chill. Tall and very open. A family guy.”
All great qualities. But I need more data.
“What do you like about him?”
“He’s always running. And we watch the same shows together. He even regulates his temperature.
Temperature? Grown-ups care about that?
“The whole family will LOVE him. Especially your brother. He’s a growing boy!”
Okay, this is getting weird.
“He’s clean. Tech savvy. Always hydrated and has room for leftovers.”
Doubtful she found a man that checks more boxes than Dad, I check over my notes…
Chill, hydrated, leftovers, running.…
“Hold on, are you talking about our new refrigerator?”
“Of course! He’s the perfect Valentine’s Day gift.”
Rolling my eyes, I shut my notebook. The answer’s clear.
Moms are just weird.
This is hilarious!
So funny and unexpected!!!!
Hey; I was stoked about my new vacuum. You gotta love great appliances!
“Moms are just weird.” Ha! I love that this one isn’t really about love, in the usual ways – a refrigerator for Valentine’s Day is a whole other kind of romance!
CHIP, CHIP HOORAY! IT’S VALENTINE’S DAY!
By Jenna Elyse Johnson
203 Words
Dear Ms. Tate,
Everyone thinks that chocolate is the king of Valentine’s Day.
But do you know what the new “chocolate” is?
Potatoes!
Let’s have potatoes at our class Valentine’s Day party.
Hear us out!
Firstly, a potato allergy is rare. Unlike dairy. And we won’t get a sugar high like we would from those chalky-candy hearts.
Second, think about ALL the ways to prepare a potato!
You can mash it, bake it, fry it, hash it, boil it, roast it, tot it, chip it, soup it, and even cake it!
Third, potatoes can PLAY!
What’s better for kids than play? (It’s our job, you know?)
They can be stamps, play dough, heads and bodies!
We dare you to play with chocolate. (Spoiler alert: it melts and gets EVERYWHERE!)
Potatoes can also be great valentines.
YES, valentines.
Think of the wordplay. (We know you love your words.)
We could make cards saying:
You’re TOT-ally awesome!
You’re my sweet potato.
You’re so a-peeling.
Time fries with you!
You’re all that and a bag of chips!
I value our friend-chip.
And what is more wow than a heart-shaped box of potatoes?
We hope you’ll make this inclusive decision.
Signed,
The lactose-intolerant students of Room 9
Fun! This made me chuckle. Love the potato persuasion here and especially the wordplay.
You had me at the title. And the rest is super cute, too!
Genius. Sign these kids up for Debate Club because they’ve won me over. I love how your title is a clever red herring, too.❤️🍪
I’m a big fan of tater tots. I’d love a V-Day present with those!
Great title, and I love all the reasons the students give to embrace the new tradition, knowing their teacher will be skeptical!
MS. TATE’S TOTS ON THE MATTER
By Jenna Elyse Johnson
187 words
Dear Lactose-Intolerant Students,
I received your letter regarding potatoes for our Valentine celebration.
Frankly, I’m feeling a bit salty.
First, while it’s true a potato allergy is rare, potatoes aren’t sugar-free.
They’re carbohydrates and will cause your blood sugar to spike and fall.
I might as well give you a cola!
Second, you’re right that there seems to be endless ways to prepare a potato.
But do you really expect me to cook pounds and pounds of potatoes for our party?
Third, potatoes can play?
I’m going to test out your hypotheses…
***
Cheese and crackers, you’re right! I made a ton of tater-tot-sized potato stamps! (Heart-shaped, of course.)
Then, I made a Mrs. Potato head and a bunch of petite potato-spuds as students.
And, let me tell you, that potato playdough smells delicious.
I do have to say, your wordplay is spudtacular!
I like your suggestions a latke.
You’ve buttered me up.
Oh, what the heck? Yukon do it!
Have your potato party. I won’t fry and stop you.
A heart-shaped box of potatoes does sound a-peeling!
Chip, chip, hooray, Happy Valentine’s Day!
Signed,
Ms. Tate
I bow to your pun-tacular potatoes, love it!
LOL! Love Ms. Tate’s change of heart. These two stories need to be a potatotastic picture book.
These two together would make a great early reader or short chapter book. Love all the wordplay and silliness. Kids will love them! Well done!
Great follow-up! Puns galore!
This one IS spudtacular! I love the way the teacher gets into the potato version of the holiday (and now, I’m really curious about potato playdough!).
THE SKEPTICAL RECEPTACLE
By Ryann Jones
178 words
I’m the Skeptical Receptacle,
I hold your trash and gunk—
but also help by checking twice
the stuff you think is junk.
You’re lucky that I’m here today
to search through odds and ends.
I’ve found some awesome Valentines
made just for you by friends!
I’m not so sure these things belong
with all my other litter.
Don’t you love these googly eyes
on monsters made of glitter?
This rose made out of mushy dough
is super duper classy.
And Jelly Beans? Why toss these?
Unless they make you gassy.
Oh, here’s a card! “I MUSTache you
to be my Valentine.”
Unique! And so much better than
a plain ol’ “Please Be Mine!”
In my opinion, gifts of love
are something you should savor.
So why’d you chuck these candy hearts
with fruity, chalky flavor?
Do humans not appreciate
the treats they throw away?
Receptacles have got to eat—
but not an art buffet!
So keep your Valentines today!
They’re special, sweet, and kind!
And if you don’t, I’ll keep them safe,
in case you change your mind.
Love your thoughtful trash can!!
So hilarious! I love how earnest the trash can is in their marveling at “junk.”
So original! This is great!
This is so quirky, clever, and sweet! Love the unusual POV and the perfect title.
So much skepticism from this trash can, I love it Ryann!!
What a thoughtful trash can, haha. Love this, Ryann!
Cute poem! I’ll look at my garbage differently today!
Ryann, you’ve given us all a new way to think about what we throw away and what we should hold onto. Nicely done and a fresh take.
This is a great perspective! And it does make me think about the waste from Valentine’s Day…how many of the cards just end up in the trash that day? Nice humor, too – like the treats with the “fruity, chalky flavor”!
One kid’s trash is a receptacle’s treasure! Love how your receptacle is skeptical, but in an endearing, sweet way. Nicely done!
RHINO IN LOVE
By S. Lee (214 words)
Mosi watched as smitten wildebeests and lovestruck zebras drifted across the grass. Meanwhile, rhinos lounged apart like any other day.
Rhinos hide their feelings under thick skin. But Mosi often worried his skin wasn’t thick enough. Especially on Valentine’s Day.
So when Niara caught his eye and waved her horn hello, Mosi blushed—and hid in a mud puddle.
When Niara invited him to play herd and seek, he plunged his head in the watering hole.
When she asked him to play shoots and ladders, he almost spilled his feelings. Instead, he fled behind a bush.
Mosi’s eyes welled up. Oh no. Rhinos are NEVER supposed to cry!
He burst into sobs.
Mosi cried and cried until his tears formed a stream in the dust.
But as the tears flowed, Mosi felt lighter. Maybe rhinos didn’t always have to hide their feelings.
He watched his tears course downhill, towards Niara.
He waved his horn hello. She didn’t wave back.
He called out her name. Her shoulders drooped.
So Mosi plucked a heart-shaped leaf from a brush and placed it in the stream. It floated down to her feet…
And Niara smiled. Mosi ran to join her.
Maybe Mosi didn’t have thick skin. Maybe he wasn’t the only one. And maybe it didn’t matter, after all.
Sweet rhino story. I’m sure they have different personalities as well!
Exactly! Thanks Chel!
Very sweet and universal in sentiment. The heart-shaped leaf floating down stream was clever.
Awesome, thank you! 🙂
I love this! It’s so nicely structured, with the play on thick skin (literal and figurative!) at the beginning and the way you return to that at the end. Herd and seek – good one! And I like the way the things happen in a parallel fashion (she does something, he hides, repeatedly, then he does, and she doesn’t return his gestures).
The last three sentences really bring this together nicely, making it feel like a complete and satisfying story. I love it!
Thank you, I really appreciate your story analysis! Glad to hear it from a reader’s perspective!