⭐️Deck the Halls! ⭐️ Light the menorah! ⭐️ Fill the Kikombe cha Umoja! ⭐️
It’s time for the . . .
13th Annual Holiday Writing Contest
~ for children’s writers ~
The Contest: Write a maximum 250-word children’s holiday story (children here defined as age 12 and under) about a Holiday Countdown!
- The countdown can cause emotion – anticipation, excitement, confusion, worry, dread or anything else
- Anything and everything can be counted down:
- – months, weeks, days, hours, minutes, seconds
- – people, animals, gifts, snowmen, fruitcakes, Christmas trees, candles, stars
- – things being hidden, wrapped, baked, purchased, handmade, eaten
- – people, animals, or items disappearing or being “picked off” one by one. . .
- – Think 5 little monkeys jumping on the bed, or 10 in the bed, or 3 wisemen, or 8 candles, or 8 reindeer or anything else with numbers for countdown inspiration.
- Anything goes – the more imaginative the better! 😊
Your story may be poetry or prose, silly or serious or sweet, religious or not, based on Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Winter Solstice, New Year’s or whatever you celebrate during the Holiday Season, but is not to exceed 250 words (I know! So much freedom after the Halloweensie Contest 😊 ) (It can be as short as you like (the judges will be grateful 😊 , you are welcome and encouraged to write shorter, but no more than 250! Title not included in word count.) The field is wide open! Have fun! The more creative the better! No illustration notes please. (And yes, if you feel compelled to submit more than one entry you may, just remember you’re competing against yourself!)
Post: Your entry should be posted between right now this very second and Friday December 8th at 11:59 PM EST, and must be posted in the comment section of THIS POST and include title, byline, and word count. This post will remain up for your reading pleasure until I post the finalists. There will be no regular posts (Tuesday Debut or Perfect Picture Book) for the duration of the contest, so everyone will have plenty of time to visit and enjoy all the entries. If you have trouble commenting, you can email your entry to me (using the handy Contact button in the menu bar above or at susanna[at]susannahill[dot]com) and I will post it for you. Please copy and paste your entry with word count and byline into the body of the email – NO ATTACHMENTS please. Please put CONTEST ENTRY in the subject line (the amount of email I get during contests is impressive and it is helpful to be able to see what’s what!)
The Judging: My lovely assistants and I will narrow down the entrants to approximately 12 finalists. Due to the busy-ness of the holiday season, I am not going to hazard a guess as to exactly when the finalists will be posted – they’ll be up as soon as I can get them up!
Judging criteria will be as follows:
- 1. Kid-appeal! – These stories are intended for a young audience (ages 12 and under), so we’re looking for stories that children will enjoy and relate to.
- 2. Holiday Countdown! – the rules state a Holiday Countdown story, so your story must be centered around a countdown of some kind and it must be crystal clear that the story in some way relates to Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Winter Solstice, New Year’s, or whatever seasonal winter holiday you choose. Your countdown must be central to the story – not just an offhand mention/reference in a story about something else.
- 3. Quality of story – entries must tell a story, including a main character of some kind and a true story arc even if it’s tiny 😊 Entries must not be merely descriptions or mood pieces.
- 4. Quality of Writing: check your spelling, grammar, punctuation etc. If you’re going to rhyme, give us your best 😊 Overall writing quality and use of language are also important. Please proofread! A typo may be the difference between being considered and being set aside.
- 5. Originality and creativity – because that is often what sets one story above another. And in a contest of countdowns, you will want yours to stand out from the crowd!
- 6. PLEASE FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS! Large numbers of entries make it easy to cut entries that haven’t been entered as we asked.
The Prizes!: Oh WOW!!! How lucky are we to have such fantastic prizes from such generous kidlit professionals!
⭐️ Ask Me Anything Zoom Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Sandra Foreman Sutter, owner and “top gnome” at Gnome Road Publishing, and author of STAN’S FRIGHTFUL HALLOWEEN (Spork, September 2020) and THE REAL FARMER IN THE DELL (Spork, March 2019)!!! Not only will Sandra read and critique your manuscript, you will get to talk to discuss it with her!
⭐️ 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.
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique 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 MERRY CHRISTMAS, DEAR MARS, September 3, 2024 from Macmillan/Godwin Books – a story that placed 2nd in the 2011 Holiday Contest! (How’s that for inspiring?) 😊
⭐️ Winner’s Choice of either a Picture Book Manuscript Critique (750 words or less) OR a signed copy of WINTER: A SOLSTICE STORY (Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, October 10, 2023) (US addresses only) from author Kelsey Gross. WINTER: A SOLSTICE STORY was inspired by the 2020 Holiday Contest in which the original version of this book, a story entitled The Solstice Tree, placed 6th! (How’s that for more inspiration? 😊)
⭐️ Winner’s Choice of either an Ask Infowoman: A Library Consult 45 min. Zoom session to discuss questions on school visits or review of a school visit presentation (PowerPoint/slide deck) OR A Conference Proposal Consult, Kathy’s brand new service offering advice on writing winning conference proposals for NCTE, TLA, SCBWI, and other educational and library conferences. Regardless of where you are in your writing career – brand new or seasoned author – Kathy Halsey has a wealth of information to help you! From insight into what books school librarians need/want in their collections (which can help you target your writing for success) to helping you create an engaging school visit and all kinds of things between…and beyond… check out her website to see what this fantastic prize can offer you! Please visit her website to see her many, many qualifications!
⭐️ 20 Minute Coaching Session from Kirsti Call, multi-published author, book coach and life coach! Kirsti is the author of SMARTY ANTS, MOOTILDA’S BAD MOOD, THE BIG SCREAM, COW SAYS MEOW, COLD TURKEY, and THE RAINDROP WHO COULDN’T FALL, and she has a depth of knowledge and experience to help you on your writing journey and in your life. Together you can talk about where you are, where you want to be, and how to get you there!
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique (non-rhyming) from Kari Ann Gonzalez, author of HOW TO HATCH A READER (Gnome Road Publishing, August 15, 2023)
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Laura Jensen Bower, author of THE IMPOSTER (forthcoming from Gnome Road, March 5, 2024) and EMILY SNOOK, THE WORLD’S SMALLEST COOK (forthcoming from Little Gnome, Fall 2024)
⭐️ a first read-through recording package from children’s author and poet Sarah Meade, contributor to HOP TO IT: POEMS TO GET YOU MOVING (Pomelo Books, 2020!) where she will read aloud and record up to five PB manuscripts for one author (1,000 words or less each, fiction or nonfiction, rhyming or non-rhyming) so you can hear how your stories sound to someone who is unfamiliar with them on a first read-through! Very helpful and enlightening!
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique (non-rhyming) from Danielle Sharkan, author of SHARING SHALOM (forthcoming from Holiday House, Fall 2024) (X (formerly Twitter) @danirae)
⭐️ A Signed Copy of Jilanne Hoffman’s gorgeous A RIVER OF DUST: The Life-Giving Link Between North Africa and the Amazon. Jilanne Hoffman is the author of 2 board books, THE HONEY BEAR HIVE (Mudpuppy January 2023), HAPPY CAMPER (Mudpuppy January 2022), and A RIVER OF DUST (Chronicle Books, July 25, 2023)
PLUS A Copy of ALPHABEDTIME generously gifted by an anonymous donor (Thank you so much! You know who you are 😊❤️)
⭐️ Signed Copy of Winner’s Choice of One of Barb Seregi‘s Picture Books: THE TRUTH ABOUT HAZEL’S COOKIE (Hope Freelancing, November 23, 2017), OLIVER’S RATTLE (Barbara Seregi, October 19, 2022), or TOMMY AND THE GOOD NEWS SHOES (Bowker, October 24, 2023)
PLUS A Signed Copy of Candace Spizzirri‘s delightful FINLEY: A MOOSE ON THE CABOOSE (Gnome Road, April 18, 2023)
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! 😊
With so many great prizes up for grabs I hope there will be a lot of entries – the more the merrier! And you’ve still got a couple days to write, so you can squeeze in under the wire if you haven’t written yet. Feel free to spread the word to your writing friends as well. And your reading friends – parents, teachers, etc. The more people who read and enjoy your stories, the better!!!
Contest Entrants, remember you MUST post your entry in the comment section below and include title, byline, and word count.
Eager Readers – just go along the list of links below, click on them (they’ll take you directly to whichever story you click on), and enjoy the stories!
So let the Holiday Contest begin!
Happy Writing and Happy Holidays! 😊 ☃️ ✡️ ⭐️ ❄️ 🎄🕯🕎
I can’t wait to read your entries!!!
THE ENTRIES! (Anyone who feels nice can start at the bottom of the list so that the later entries get read too! 😊)
1. Shivering With Excitement – Donna Kurtz
2. My Beastly Christmas – Paul Kurtz
3. Five Twinkling Stars Dancing On A Cloud – Susan Elizabeth Schipper
4. Ten Days For Sun – Vashti Verbowski
5. Juno’s Cookie-Dash – Angela Jelf
6. The Wrong List – Elizabeth Meyer zu Heringdorf
7. A Christmas Eve Countdown – Sue Lancaster
8.
9. Countdown To Joy – Mary Ann Featherston
10. Seeds – Mona Voelkel
11. And Then There Were None – Kelly Kates
12. Sweater Weather Is Better Together – Bridget Magee
13. 12 Nights Of Solstice – Janel Caverly
14. Midnight Kisses – April Berry
15. The Last Christmas Bow – Jodie Houghton
16. Zelda’s Christmas Capers – Kelly Clasen
17. Clues To Find Joy – Glenda Roberson
18. Five Sneaky Peeks – Lynsey Folkman
19. Countdown At The North Pole – Marty Bellis
20. First Minutes Of Christmas – Robin Currie
21. One Magical Christmas – Rose Cappelli
22. Pete’s Lump Of Coal – Michael Flowers
23. Reindeer Countdown – Lyn Jekowsky
24. One, Two, Three. . . Breathe In The Season – Michelle Lee
25. 12 Days Of Giving Back – Bev Baird
26. Counting Down The 8 Nights Of Hanukkah – Denise Seidman
27. The Perfect Tree – Elizabeth Volkmann
28. The Lost Letter – Lindsay Moretti
29. Mittens’ First Christmas – Julie Lerczak
30. Cookies For Santa – Barb Edwards
31. Ogres’ Solstice Snail Cakes – Leslie Degnan
32. Shine For Christ – The Masek Sisters (Jenna & Megan)
33. A Gift For Grandma – Amy Houts
34. Pip And Squeak’s Christmas Candle Countdown: An Advent Story – Stefanie Raszler
35. No Time To Waste – Katie Lee Reinert
36. Always Worth The Wait – Nicole Loos Miller
37. Five Days Till Christmas – Linda Staszak
38. On Christmas, We Skate – Jessica Russo
39. Jojo’s Fruitcake – Kristen Littlefield
40. Thanks Giving – Shariffa Keshavjee
41. Five Glass Angels – Laura Badami
42. Five Little Carolers – Sarah Meade
43. The Rockin’ Reindeer Show – Sarah Meade
44. Santa’s Reindeer Countdown – Carla Gullett
45. Final Five – Brenda Covert
46. Operation: Santa Trap – Tyler Ham
47. Until Then. . . – Reed Hilton-Eddy
48. Holiday Play – Tamara Gallagher
49. The First Christmas In Space – Dr. Anne Lipton
50. Christmas Countdown – Lori Himmel
51. A Very Special Advent Calendar – Jamie Donahoe
52. Ten Santa Cookies – Sharon Jackson
53. Countdown To Bethlehem – Nicole Frees
54. The Reindeers Day In The Toy Shop – Angel Gantnier
55. 10 Frozen Elves – Marta Cutler
56. Sprinkle’s Cookie Countdown – Daniella Kaufman
57. 10 Days Until Christmas – Leana Lee
58. Christmas In The Forest – Janet A. Bryce
59. Kitten’s First Christmas – Maura Lance
60.
61. The Christmas Rush – Jany Campana
62. Five Little Children – Maura Lance
63. Rudolph The Red Nosed Rhino – Kellie Tune
64. Holidays Countdown – Isabel Cruz Rodriguez
65. Cookie Contest Countdown – Jessie Raspbury
66. New Year’s Countdown – Jenna Daucunas
67. Willa Wonders Why – Karen Shakman
68. Duck Clark’s Quacking New Year’s Eve – Jim Chaize
69. ‘Twas The Night Before Bunny Christmas – Marta Cutler
70. The 12 YAYs Of Christmas – Ryann Jones
71. Slurpy Sam And The Slimy Slugs – Laura DeGrave
72. The Never-Ending Christmas Song – Sheri Bentley
73. The Just-Right Christmas Tree – Jessica Iwanski
74. And Now There Are None: A Tale Of Ten Christmas Ornaments – Jessica Iwanski
75. Eight Little Reindeer – Katrina Swenson
76. The Twelve Stops Till Grandma’s – Jill Dowmbrowski
77. Tiptoes – Helen Hauser
78. The Christmas House – Heather C. Morris
79. Can Time Really Zip? – Judy Caldwell Hughes
80. Polar Vision News – S. J. Barratt
81. Christmas Play Countdown – Krista Harrington
82. Countdown To La Navidad – Carmen Castillo Gilbert, PhD
83. Three Dozen Cookies – Elizabeth Thoms Charles
84. Goat’s Christmas Surprise – Jenny Crooks-Johnson
85. The Cookie Calamity – Katie McEnaney
86. Tree’s Long Dark Night – Katie Schwartz
87. The Santa Clues – A Holiday Detective Story – Melissa Borowicz Betrus
88. 77 Good Deeds – Nichole Stratton
89. Ms. Sunny’s Class Presents “The 12 Days Of Christmas” – Hallie Christensen
90. Light – Russell Wolff
91. The Last Time Santa Ate Sushi – Abigail Mumford
92. A Cup Of Flour, A Dash Of Salt, And A Sprinkle Of Hope – Colleen Murphy
93. Mr. Tweedy’s Christmas Trees – Colleen Fogarty
94. Tin, The Stressed-Out Elf – Joy Dickinson
95. Angel Wings Needed – Lauren N. Simmons
96. Don’t Wake Clara: An Eight Night Nutcracker Countdown – Lauren N. Simmons
97. Countdown To Bethlehem – Emmie R. Werner
98. Are We There Yet Santa? – Dierdre Laide
99. The Twelve Slimes Of Christmas – Kaitlin M. Sikes
100. It’s Tradition – Lynn M. Moore
101. Percy The Tree – Katherine Rea
102. The Elf Report: Olive The Dog – Maria Piñero Pope
103. 12 Magical Gifts – Maria Piñero Pope
104. A Winter Solstice Countdown – Sharon McCarthy
105. Oh Christmas, Where’d You Go? – Katie Mahood
106. Michiko’s Merry Mochi – Ellen Akemi Crosby
107. The Nice List – Jenna Griffith
108. Waiting For Christmas – Marty Findley
109. New Year’s Eve Flamin’ Candle Countdown – Patrice Lyle
110. Dora’s Hanukkah Parcel – Lori Dubbin
111. Three Days To Christmas – Susan Burdorf
112. The Snack Before Christmas – Teresa Traver
113. Operation Exhaustion – Jan Schwaid
114. Christmas Sock Countdown – P. J. Purtee
115. Lights Out!? – Nicole Garnett
116. Cookies For Santa – Julie Hauswirth
117. There Is. . . – Bru Benson
118. A Sense-ational Christmas! – Cezanne Bomba
119. One Light Out Of Many – Emily Rozmus
120. Devoted Drone Deliveries – Kim Collazo
121. Homes For The Holidays – Kelly Clasen
122. Five Magic Flights – Jen Keenan
123. A Merry Badgered Christmas – Sarah (Sezza) Hetu
124. But Why 44? Tish’s Chanukah Candle Question – Mara K. Lansky
125. Where Did All The Latkes Go? – Marla Yablon
126. Making A Miracle – Danna Zeiger
127. Zoey’s Tropical Christmas – Allison Gray
128. Santa And The Special Boys – Una Belle Townsend
129. Lost And Found: A Christmas Tail – Eleanor Peterson
130. Santa’s Mega Hot Chocolate – Alicia Meyers
131. Snowball’s Christmas Checklist – Kris DeCaro
132. December Holidays Count Down! – Jenna Grace
133. A Train, A Robot, And A Cookie Thief – Amy Martinez
134. Elf Olympics – Bri Lawyer
135. Countdown To Snow – Christina Shawn
136. Follow The Star – Judy Sobanski
137. 12 More Days Till Christmas – Thelia Hutchinson
138. Home For The Pawlidays – Jill Lambert
139. Paws For Concern – Bri Lawyer
140. The Christmas Cookie Countdown – Stephanie Flom
141. Push Pull Pop Ring – Lorraine McCown
142. The Best New Year Ever – Kiran Nair
143. The Naughty Kid Countdown – Tiffany Hanson
144. City Sights On New Year’s Night – Ashley Karges
145. Eduardo The Elf – Diana Lynn Gibson
146. This Party Stinks! – Abby N. Wooldridge
147. Seymour’s Countdown To Christmas – Sharon Korzelius
148. The Holiday Countdown Contest – Elizabeth Muster
149. Three Sugar Cookies On A Christmas Plate – Ashley Sierra
150. Kinda Naughty And Kinda Nice – Tracy T. Agnelli
151. A Too Tight Christmas – Becky Goodman
152. This Is The Year! – Eric Sondergeld
153. Do You Need Light? – Angelina Phelan
154. Woodland Whimsy – Lorraine McCown
155. A Race To The Stars – Susan Eyerman
156. The Last Cookie – Tracy Detz
157. Christmas In Wishville – Kendra Raubinger Chevalier
158. Christmas Eve Cookies – Mary Warth
159. Mrs. Claus Finds Joy – Nichole Stratton
160. Santa’a Rocket Sleigh – Lauri C. Meyers
161. A Chipmunk Christmas Eve – Dianne Borowski
162. Up Up Up, Down Down Down – Lmariekey
163. Cary’s Christmas Moment – Marjorie David
164. The Promise Of Christmas – Annette Bethers
165. Mama Says I Can Count Down To Christmas – Sally Yorke-Viney
166. Are We There Yet? – Melissa Rafson Friedman
Susanna Leonard Hill 
Push Pull Pop Ring
By Lorraine McCown
248 words
My nanna loves red. She wears red lipstick and drives a red car. In the winter, she wears red flannel pajamas and drinks hot chocolate from a red mug. That’s how I know she’ll love the ring I saw at my school’s Secret Santa Shop!
I have four nights left to turn my loose tooth into Christmas money.
Push, wiggle, OUCH!
It’s still stuck. I’ll try again tomorrow night.
Nanna is pretty old, but she can still piddle.
That’s what she said she did all day. I think piddling means watering red flowers and making strawberry pie.
Only three days left before the Secret Santa Shop closes.
Push, wiggle, waggle, WINCE!
Drats, no luck tonight.
Today Nanna emptied her jewelry box across her bed. She loves to tell me about each piece. I think the ring is a perfect match for her favorite red necklace.
Only two more days, and I am getting worried.
Push, wiggle, waggle, OOF!
It’s looser, but not quite ready.
Nanna put her tree up today. It has red ornaments, red bows, and tiny red Santas all over it.
Only one day left before the store closes. This tooth needs to come out tonight!
I bravely tied string to my tooth and attached the other end to my door knob. I closed my eyes and counted backwards: Four, three, two, one…
Push, pull, POP… giggle!
I tucked my tooth under my pillow and dreamed of tooth fairy coins, a red ring, and Nanna’s smile.
Nice combination of losing a tooth and counting down to Christmas.
Really nice character building. I think I know her grandmother already . . . and I just met her.
ENTRY POSTED FOR KIRAN
THE BEST NEW YEAR EVER
By Kiran Nair
WC: 144
Miraya shouted, “Ten…Nine…Eight…Seven…”
“Shhh…This is a hospital!” whispered the nurse.
“Ma is going to have a baby any minute. She is inside and I can’t go in!”
The crowd outside was gearing up to bring in the new year with fireworks and a lot of confetti.
As she heard her Ma in pain, Miraya screamed again, “Ten…Nine…Eight…”
She saw the nurse and stopped!
Miraya murmured, “Ten…Nine…Eight…Seven…Six…Five…Four…Three…Two…One.”
A tear rolled down her cheek. She wanted her mom to hear her voice.
Grand-ma held her hand and shouted, “Ten…Nine…Eight…”
Miraya’s eye sparkled.
She joined in, “Seven…Six…Five…”
The nurse and Pa joined in!
“Four…Three…Two…”
Ma gave a big sigh and shouted, “One….”
Suddenly, there were whistling and crackling sounds all around the city.
Miraya pressed her ear against the door.
She heard her baby brother cry for the first time.
“The best new year ever!” she murmured.
Well done Kiran. What a wonderful way to begin the New Year.
Thank you, Eleanor! ❤️
Oh this is lovely!
Thank you! 🙂
Lovely countdown.
Thank you so much! : )
The best way to start a new year! Such a lovely, family story Kiran
Aww. Warm fuzzies at the end.
Thank you, Laura! 🙂
Thank you, Becky! 🙂
The Naughty Kid Countdown
By Tiffany Hanson
247 Words
This year, I’m on the naughty list.
It’s unfair.
No one saw me flush fireworks down the toilet. And gluing my sister’s toes together? That was an accident.
With no presents from Santa this year, I’m counting down the days I can be naughty.
Day four. I give my sister’s doll a green mohawk. She only cries a little. Santa will probably bring her a replacement.
Day three. I hide the snowblower so I won’t have to clear the walkway. My dad slips a few times but we don’t have a chimney so why make it easier for Santa to go through the front door?
Day two. I take all the cookies my mom baked for Santa. Sure, she worked hard but it’s carrots for Santa for this year.
Christmas Eve Day. Last naughty day.
I look at my parents and sister and see sad faces. My dad twisted his ankle in the snow, my sister is trying unsuccessfully to braid her doll’s mohawk and my mom is looking at the carrots mournfully.
I guess it wasn’t Santa I was hurting with my naughtiness. It was my family.
I skip the rest of my naughty kid countdown.
I apologize to my family. I retrieve the snowblower and clear the walkway. I return the cookies I stole and bake some new ones. I give my sister one of my dolls.
My parents smile and my sister laughs. I realize that’s the best Christmas gift I could ask for.
Thank goodness he had a change of heart. Happy Holidays!
My comment for this flew away to another land? I like that the character changes!
Whew! Turned nice at the last minute. Santa probably had a gift for this kid in the sleigh . . . just in case.
ENTRY POSTED FOR ASHLEY
CITY SIGHTS ON NEW YEAR’S NIGHT
By Ashley Karges
212 words
One little me on New Year’s Eve.
All dressed up! It’s time to leave.
Two big windows with streamers that flow,
In the cold night wind – they whoosh! They blow!
Three party hats strapped on tight.
Steady and slow to stay upright.
Four women dancing in glitter and boots.
Their little dog dates are dressed up in suits.
Five spilled glasses of bubbling juice.
Uh oh, it looks like his shoelace is loose!
Six in line waiting – their feet are all thumping.
The music inside is pumping and bumping.
Seven musicians march in a row.
Skipping a beat as I wave hello!
Eight minutes left on the ticking time clock!
We rush up the stairs and rap a loud knock!
Nine guests and counting are ready to cheer.
Ten seconds now! The countdown is here!
10… 9… 8… 7… 6… 5… 4… 3… 2… 1…!
Ten “Happy New Year” shouts through the air!
Nine paper bits get stuck in my hair.
Eight noisemakers crackle and pop.
Seven balloons float overtop.
Six pointy hats fall to the floor.
Five empty cups fill up with more.
Four warm arms reach in for a hug.
Three smiling faces meet on the rug.
Two New Year’s kisses planted right here.
One sleepy me. Happy New Year!
Clever, Ashley! There’s a great rhythm to this countdown!
Lovely! I love your title.
I like the image of these balloons (all a different color in my mind).
Eduardo the Elf
Diana Lynn Gibson
196 words
Just TEN days from Christmas, Eduardo the Elf
relaxed on the edge of Sylvester’s top shelf.
Night NINE he had hidden well in his new place,
inside the boy’s truck with a grin on his face.
Night EIGHT he climbed up to the side of the sink,
and struggled to stay while he gave a quick wink.
Night SEVEN he danced to the living room couch,
adjusting himself in a comfortable slouch.
Night SIX he jumped up to the boy’s bedroom nook,
and propped himself there as if reading a book.
Night FIVE he crept into the silverware drawer.
He straightened the red elfin suit that he wore.
Night FOUR he slid under the living room rug,
while waiting for morning – all warm, safe and snug.
Night THREE he leapt onto the living room light.
He hung from the shade with a smile of delight.
Night TWO he dozed off in the bed that he’d made,
continuing on with his hiding charade.
Night ONE he lazed back on the rim of the seat,
leaned onto his elbows and swung his small feet.
His escapades over, Eduardo the Elf
ascended the treetop and laughed to himself.
Hahaha, an elf named Eduardo (gotta love it). I have a feeling you just recommended ten ideas for all the Elves on the Shelves around the world. This was fun to imagine Eduardo doing tall this.
This Party Stinks!
By Abby N. Wooldridge
250 words
‘Twas the night before Christmas and inside my house
a creature was stirring—a sly, sneaky mouse.
He spotted the milk that was meant for St. Nick
and called to his family, “Come on! Get it, quick!”
Then what to my wondering eyes should appear,
but eight tiny mice on a sleigh like reindeer!
Before I could stop them, they’d snatched Santa’s mug
and dragged it right down to their sleigh on the rug.
They fled to their hole on their fast little feet,
shouting, “Seven more sleeps ‘till we have a treat!”
Though they were careful to stay out of sight,
I heard them count down at the end of each night.
“Six more sleeps! … Five! … Four more! … Now just three! …
Two more sleeps! … One! … Now none! — Finally!”
“Why are they counting?” each night I would think.
“And yuck! What’s that smell? Why does it stink?”
I opened the windows and took out the trash.
The reeking was wrecking my New Year’s Eve Bash.
My friends held their noses and left in two winks.
“We’re sorry,” they said, “but this party stinks!”
By the stroke of midnight, I had started to wheeze
as all the mice rolled out a big wheel of cheese!
At last it made sense why the stench was so strong…
as they sang, “Cheers to milk that has curdled so long!”
They feasted on cheddar and bid me goodnight.
The funk flew away, and I cried with delight.
This would be so much fun to illustrate. Kids would love it!
My favorite part: and left in two winks.
Seymour’s Countdown to Christmas
by Sharon Korzelius
WC: 168
TEN
Michael calls, “Are we ready?”
Aurie looks cool and steady.
NINE
Gabe and Ralph jump up and down,
Frankie trips upon his gown.
EIGHT
Seymour wants to disappear–
he’s not feeling Christmas cheer.
SEVEN
His stomach hurts, his head aches,
frightened he’ll miscalculate.
SIX
Worried he’s not good enough–
he’ll crack the notes, sound too rough.
FIVE
“You got this, bud,” Michael sings.
“We need your voice, lift those wings!”
FOUR
Angels praise with gilded voice,
announce and sing and rejoice.
THREE
Seymour knew he had to try
to fight his fear, sing on high.
TWO
Inhale, exhale, here I go;
this is it, look out below!
ONE
Seymour sang with all his might,
sang to all throughout the night.
His angel voice was pure as light,
much to Michael’s sheer delight.
Shepherds heard and went to see
the newborn king on bended knee.
Seymour sang, and sang again,
then he ended with “Amen.”
His smile spread from ear to ear,
“That’s what I call Christmas cheer.”
Lovely! Good luck!
This is so lovely, Sharon!
There are several lines that are so sweet . . . touched my heart.
The Holiday Countdown Contest
By Elizabeth Muster
Word Count 249
“This year’s holiday story contest should be about a countdown,” announced Principal Butterworth. “All entries must be emailed to me by December 21. The winner will receive a $20 prize!”
No problem, thought Hayden. He had 19 days to write the best story ever, so he wrote his Christmas list instead.
On December 1, Hayden took out his Chromebook and stared at the blinking cursor. After 18 blinks, he closed Google Docs and opened Cool Math Games.
On December 17, Hayden looked up the lyrics to “The Twelve Days of Christmas” for inspiration. But he was too tired to write.
Hayden woke up on December 18 with a sore throat, a stuffy nose and a horrible headache. He stayed home from school and slept. December 19 was more of the same.
On December 20, Hayden typed as fast as he could. “For twelve days strait, the for calling birds and the partridge battled the three French hens and too turtle doves to sea who wood when the five golden rings.”
On December 22, Principal Butterworth announced the winner – Annabell Pate. Hayden hung his head when the principal wished him Happy Holidays.
“Are you okay?” she asked.
“I really thought I could win,” muttered Hayden.
“You had a good idea,” said the Principal. “But you needed to take more time to proofread.”
“Oh,” said Hayden. “I suppose I should have started sooner.”
“Well, there’s always the Valentine contest,” said Principal Butterworth.
“I better start on that in January,” said Hayden.
Okay, this is clever on so many levels. Well done.
THREE SUGAR COOKIES ON A CHRISTMAS PLATE
by Ashley Sierra
206 words
Sophie yells to Mama at the toddler gate.
“Where are my cookies for my Christmas plate?”
“By the tree, Sweet Pea!”
“Fee. Fi. Fo. Fum! I see cookies. YUM! YUM! YUM!”
Three sugar cookies on a Christmas plate.
One runs off to hide and wait.
“What great big hungry eyes she has!”
Sophie yells to Mama at the toddler gate.
“Who took a cookie from my Christmas plate?”
“It wasn’t me, Sweet Pea!”
Two sugar cookies on a Christmas plate.
One runs off to hide and wait.
“What great big sharp teeth she has!”
Sophie yells to Mama at the toddler gate.
“Who took a cookie from my Christmas plate?”
“It wasn’t me, Sweet Pea!”
One sugar cookie on a Christmas plate.
It runs off to hide and wait.
“What a great rumbly tummy she has!”
Sophie yells to Mama at the toddler gate.
“Who took the cookies from my Christmas plate?”
“It wasn’t me, Sweet Pea!”
No sugar cookies on a Christmas plate.
They jump on a roller skate.
Zoom past the gate!
And escape their fate . . . until . . .
“Fee. Fi. Fo. Fum! I see cookies. YUM! YUM! YUM!”
Sophie crashes through the toddler gate . . .
“Don’t go! Don’t go! I need you with my hot cocoa!”
This reminds me of WHO TOOK THE COOKIE FROM THE COOKIE JAR. Took me back. Thanks.
Kinda Naughty and Kinda Nice
By Tracy T. Agnelli
215 words
I have been a little naughty this year.
I gave my brother a piece of chocolate, he thought. He liked it so much that he gave a piece to our mother. To see the surprise look on her face when it moved.
I spit my gum out and watched it fly right into her hairdo. I knew right then and there I was in trouble again.
Time is running out. So I devised a plan to get at least one Christmas gift this year.
Twelve cards for soldiers that are stationed overseas.
Deliver eleven dozen cookies to fire stations.
Take ten blankets to the homeless.
Candy cane bombed nine classrooms with help from Mr. Tom the maintenance man.
Take eight books, coloring books, and crayons to the children’s hospital.
Sing seven songs at a nursing home.
Shovel six neighbors’ sidewalks.
Play with five kids this week who are sitting by themselves.
Donated four hours of my time at the animal shelter.
Help clean three rooms of the house, but not the bathroom. Yuck!
Write two notes. One to Santa, and one to Mom and Dad saying how sorry I am for all the things I did the other eleven months.
One hour of praying this all works.
If it does…
Eleven months till Christmas comes again.
Naughty indeed, but he made up for his bad deeds. Good luck!
Ahh, Tracy, so sweet! I love your ‘countdown’ items, I’d say he definitely made up for his previous naughtiness! But I guess all bets are off once Christmas passes…a kid to watch!
What lovely things you came up with. I hope they all happen!
A TOO TIGHT CHRISTMAS
by Becky Goodman
250 words
Poor little dressed-up Thomas on Christmas day…
10 too tight layers bedecked his
itty-bitty body.
Thomas was buttoned up, zipped up, and topped off with
a cap,
a coat,
a vest,
a shirt,
a bowtie,
a belt,
a pair of pants,
slippery socks,
shiny shoes,
and…his FAVORITE FESTIVE UNDERPANTS.
Head to tippy-toes, Thomas wore
too much and waited
too long for his grandparents
to arrive
to take
a picture at the party.
Tick-tock went the clock. When would they get here?
Waiting, Thomas took a cookie off the table.
Crunch, munch – delight.
His coat felt too tight.
Thomas shed it.
9 layers.
Tick-tock…
Thomas took a toffee.
Crunch, munch – delight.
His vest felt too tight.
Thomas tossed it.
8 layers.
Tick-tock…
Thomas dug his hands into a dish.
Crunch, munch,
crunch, munch,
crunch, munch –
candy cane delight!
Thomas rubbed his tummy and moaned, “Too tight.”
Goodbye belt, cap, and bowtie.
7,
6,
5 layers.
Tick-tock…
He passed the carrots, cucumbers, and dips,
headed straight to the chips.
Crunch, munch…
Thomas groaned, “Too tight.”
He kicked off his shoes, slipped off his socks.
4,
3 layers.
Tick-tock…
POP! went his buttons. POP! POP! POP!
Off went his shirt.
2 layers.
Tick-tock…
Thomas waddled and waited, and spied the gingerbread house he decorated…
Crunch…
No more pants.
1 layer.
Tick-tock…
Ding-dong!
His grandparents arrived and hugged Thomas tight. “What a delight,” they gushed. “Potty-trained at Christmas!”
They took a picture at the party, proud of Thomas dressed in his
FAVORITE FESTIVE UNDERPANTS.
This was a riveting read to the very end!
Potty-trained! Ha, ha!
Such fun!
Very cute 🙂
Ahhh…the freedom of underwear for a little guy! Fun to read Becky, great job!
Hahaha . . . we all know how Thomas felt . . . especially at Thanksgiving and Christmas.
This is the Year!
By Eric Sondergeld
227 words
It’s twelve o’clock noon,
And he’ll be here soon.
He’ll go “Ho ho ho!”
Twelve hours to go.
It’s been just one hour?
I’ll summon my power ,
So I can endure,
An eleven-hour tour.
This is the year,
I’ll see him spread cheer.
Down by the fire,
When ten hours transpire.
With nothing to do,
I play my kazoo.
I bore of that fast,
Nine more I must last.
I’ll twiddle my thumbs,
Until Santa comes.
Now my thumbs ache,
They need an eight-hour break.
With a quick power nap,
It’ll be a snap.
Add a cold shower
To last seven hours.
I pour milk in a glass,
And some cookies, alas.
I’ve now set my bait,
Six hours to wait.
I’ll just sit downstairs,
But mom says “Upstairs!”
Then I’ll sit up in bed,
For five hours instead.
With my bedroom light on
I could make it ‘til dawn.
Then dad shouts “Lights out!”
Four-hour stakeout.
I was feeling so wired,
But now getting tired.
How can I pass time?
In three, sleigh bells chime.
My eyelids are falling,
Cause Hypnos is calling.
Did I just hear me snore?
Can I make it two more?
I’ll tape my eyes open,
And I’m really hopin’.
To remain conscious,
For this one-hour rush.
With minutes to midnight,
No reindeer in sight.
Wait! What’s that I hear?
Zzzzzzzzzz…
Oh, no! He missed Santa. I love how kids try to stay awake and then just drop off. Sweet!
I got tickled at the kazoo!
DO YOU NEED LIGHT?
By Angelina Phelan
WC: 247
As big as the star filled sky on a new moon night,
imagine this cake with candles, sparkling bright…
Soon… A big birthday.
Do you know who to invite?
Mom says, “All who need light.”
That’s everyone, right?
Neighbor! – Do you need light?
Indeed! For twelve glowing canes striped in white.
Farmer! – Do you need light?
Please. I’ll plow eleven rows before midnight.
Fishermen! – Do you need light?
Shine there where ten more hungry fish will bite.
Teacher! Firemen! – Do you need light?
Certainly! We have nine kind words to rewrite.
Absolutely! To rescue eight missing fawns in fright.
Shepherd! – Do you need light?
Undoubtedly! For steering seventy times seven sheep forthright.
Housekeeper! – Do you need light?
Clearly! I’ll scrub out every six-legged mite.
Electrician! – Do you need light?
Definitely! To rebuild five homes after a tornado’s blight.
Doctor! – Do you need light?
Always! I’ll restore these four fellas’ eyesight.
Philosopher! – Do you need light?
Never! None! You see – I am the light of me.
Gasp!
What? Wait! Never? Oh… How faint and finite…
Scientist/Engineer/Artist/Journalist! – Do you need light?
Truly! To discover, build, render, declare three wonders with delight.
Mom! – Do you need light?
Always! To shine love when two hearts unite.
Hey kid! – Do you need light?
Yes! One star for the tree then kiss baby goodnight.
Sublime! It’s party time!
Will you come, my friend?
Don’t hesitate. Let’s all attend!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!
Mom, does Jesus need light?
My child, Jesus Christ is The Light!
Jesus IS the light, indeed!
Yes, we ALL need light, love your theme Angelina! Great job!
This story kept getting brighter and brighter!
Woodland Whimsy
By Lorraine McCown
80 words
Ten tiny titmice tied tinsel on the tree.
Nine nervous nuthatches nestled nutcrackers in its needles.
Eight opulent orioles added icicles to the evergreen.
Seven sneaky sparrows slipped snowflakes in spare spaces.
Six spangled starlings sprinkled sequins from the sky.
Five fancy finches fastened figures to the Frazier.
Four flying flickers fetched finials for the fir.
Three thrifty thrashers threw throngs of thrilling threads.
Two timid towhees tucked trinkets in the twigs.
One wondrous welcome waited warmly in the woods.
I love all the alliteration! Nicely done!
Thanks so much Michelle! I just took a look at your #PBpitches and you had me at bumble bee frass (laugh emoji). I don’t see any entries in this contest though. Am I missing it?
I didn’t enter this year. I had planned to but too much happened in the last week- the death of a friend and another in the hospital, so I’m cheering all the amazing entries instead! Good luck to you!
I’m so sorry to hear that. I hope your friend in the hospital returns to good health and that you are able to find some joy in the upcoming holidays. It is very sweet of you to lift everyone up when you are in the middle of so much and I appreciate you.
Quite the tongue twister. Good luck! Try reading it out loud. Tough, but fun.
I agree and have already revised it, though I’m not sure I untangled any tongues. I created three lists to work from (bird names, types of tree ornaments/garnishes, and tree parts). Since the countdown numbers cemented the consonant choices, many good words were left on the cutting board floor. The orioles are the only birds I don’t see in my back yard and, while I could have gone with owls, I decided against avian predators for this one. This was a lot of fun except for the leading ‘th’ in three – not too many choices here to decorate my tree.
Lorraine, you did a great job. Orioles reminds me of our softball team many years ago. You must be a nature lover. Good luck!
Love how you included all the birds Lorraine, they would be very good at decorating a tree! All that practice finding twigs and things to build their nests and stuff. And super alliteration, really amazing!
Thanks so much for taking the time to read this and leave your kind words, Katie! I only wish that there were numbers starting with the letters of my other backyard friends like the chattering chickadees, crafty cardinals, and boisterous bluebirds.
My favorite part: sprinkled sequins from the sky.
A RACE TO THE STAR By Susan Eyerman
Shepherds stayed with their flock that cold, winter night.
The sheep huddled together to keep warm and safe.
All was quiet until…
A light so bright made the night turn into day.
It moved across the sky and stopped.
It sent its bright white rays to earth just over the hill.
Five little lambs burst from the middle of the warm, wooly flock.
“Let’s go!” Brown Ear called. “Let’s race to the star!”
Five little lambs raced toward the star.
They tumbled.
They bucked.
They wrestled.
Black Leg went splat in the mud. The others ran off.
Four little lambs raced to the star.
They leaped.
They jumped.
They chased some bunnies.
Fuzzy Tail got caught in some brambles. He cried baa, baa, baa for his mother.
Three little lambs raced to the star.
They ran in circles.
They chased each other’s tails.
“I’m getting hungry,” White Hoof said as he stopped to graze.
Two little lambs raced to the star.
They raced up the hill and gazed.
An angel appeared in the bright star’s light and called out,
“Do not be afraid. I bring you great news! For today, a Savior is born. A baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a manger. Glory to God in the Highest.”
Grey Spot fell down in fright and rolled back down the hill.
One little lamb raced to the star.
Brown Ear was the first to welcome the newborn baby Jesus.
242
I love your sweet little lambs 🙂
Very affirming story Susan. Brown Ear didn’t let anything distract him from getting to the star, and his reward was getting to welcome baby Jesus!
I could imagine the entire story!
ENTRY POSTED FOR TRACY DETZ
The Last Cookie
247 Words
Madison O’Hare is a cookie extraordinaire,
and her secret recipes quite rare,
with only an hour to fill Santa’s request
she mixed the ingredients with care.
Browned to perfection the cookies all done,
Santa wouldn’t mind if she took one more bite,
it was perfectly clear what a clever idea,
so, she ate two and laid down for the night.
Boom! A noise thumped her awake
like reindeer, bells, and a sled.
She sprang from the clatter—fingers covered in batter,
then tucked herself back into bed.
A minute before midnight and seconds to spare, she woke to a rumbling at the foot of the stairs.
She thought she was dreaming, or maybe her fate, had she done it again and cleaned Santa’s plate.
“Ho, ho, ho, what a good girl, you saved me a cookie.”
Santa took a big bite then patted his gut,
but cringed when he spoke and started to choke
when she completely turned into a nut.
“Bad Santa! Give me the cookie!” she screamed,
as she wrestled him down, he flopped and fell flat on his back.
With a cookie for the win and a devilish grin,
she jumped on his belly and raided his sack.
Santa peeled her off gently and dusted his suit,
“The elves on the shelves are truly insane,
too much sugar will garble your mind,” he explained.
So, he snatched the cookie back and gathered his sack,
“Thank you, Madison, this cookie is mine.”
Sounds like Santa really needed that cookie 🙂
My favorite line: She sprang from the clatter–fingers covered in batter.
ENTRY POSTED FOR KENDRA
Christmas In Wishville
By Kendra Raubinger Chevalier
250 words
On Christmas Eve, the Wishville mice gathered at the village tree to lavishly lace it with colorful ornaments. One, two, three, every mouse could see Wishville was ready for Christmas.
The stockings were hung, and the garland was slung.
This year, Marlie was chosen to place the star at the tip-top of the town tree. Marlie sighed, “Oh, Momma, look! So much care has been taken. Wishville is more beautiful than ever!”
Marlie was brave, being lifted high above the crowd.
The eager mice shouted, “TEN, NINE, EIGHT, SEVEN, SIX, FIVE, FOUR, THREE, TWO, ONE!”
Marlie placed the star perfectly. The tree lights illuminated.
Wishville cheered! Marlie cheered!
Marlie’s mitten accidentally nicked a shiny red bulb.
It began to fall. Marlie cried, “OH, NO!” As each big, beautiful bulb fell, smashing into the next, it exploded into pieces. “OH, NO! I’ve ruined Christmas!”
Marlie wished she’d never been chosen.
To her surprise, the crowd began counting down with every crash …
“TEN, NINE, EIGHT, SEVEN, SIX, FIVE…….”
Marlie’s tender spirit lifted.
She counted, “FOUR…. THREE…. TWO.…ONE… HURRAY!” Wishville had never seen such a creative display of the true meaning of Christmas!
Broken, shiny pieces scattered the ground surrounding baby Jesus in the manger. The glow of the shattered bulbs encircled the very ONE who came to earth to heal their broken pieces.
Large snowflakes fell.
All of Wishville cheered! Marlie cheered!
The mice roared,” Merry Christmas, Marlie!”
Marlie’s gentle voice echoed throughout the village,
“This is the best Christmas ever!”
“to heal their broken pieces” – lovely!
Beautiful ending. I was worried for Marlie.
Lovely ending 🙂
My favorite line: The stockings were hung, and the garland was slung. So lyrical.
ENTRY POSTED FOR MARY
Christmas Eve Cookies
by
Mary Warth
156 Words
Ten minutes, ten minutes, ten minutes more.
I press my nose against the glass door.
Time to spare, time to spare, time for a game.
Watching or not, they’ll bake just the same!
Nine minutes, eight minutes, seven remain.
I smell ginger and sweet candy cane.
Six minutes, six minutes, still lots to do.
Like playing with trains and paper dolls too!
Five minutes, four minute, three minutes- wait!
Did I lose count? Oh no! I’ll be late!
Two minutes, two minutes, “Coming!” I shout.
Back to the kitchen to see if they’re out.
One minute, one minute, beep! Cookies done!
Mostly for me- but Santa gets one.
No minutes, no minutes, ready to eat.
I reach for the tray, then feel the heat!
Much too hot, much too hot, too hot to touch!
Christmas Eve cookies – I want them so much!!!
Ten minutes, ten minutes, ten minutes more.
Still waiting for cookies– just like before!
This is delightful! I love the repetitive phrases!
Those smells from the first batch can drive a kid crazy. Waiting for what seems like forever is so relatable.
I’m craving for cookies now. Good luck!
Yum 🙂
Waiting for those cookies to be done is so relatable for kids. Then there’s cooling time!
Cute and so typical! Good luck!
So relatable. My great-niece once stood in front of the oven with a flashlight waiting for the cookies to be done.
Mrs. Claus Finds Joy
by Nichole Stratton
WC: 207
Twelve stockings to mend,
Eleven thousand gifts to wrap,
Ten lists to double-check,
Nine hungry reindeer to feed.
It’s more than eight hours of work a day,
Seven days a week, I can tell you that.
Six dozen cookies baked,
Five pots of hot chocolate made,
And it’s only four p.m.!
Plus, three elves need me to talk them down from the season’s stress.
Two thousand years known only as “Mrs. Claus,” Santa’s hidden helper.
Not one letter, not one thank you–
Zero credit.
One morning, I’ve had enough.
“Santa, there’s space for two in that sleigh!”
Three elves are transferred to kitchen duty, to their– and my– relief.
Four days ‘til Christmas and Santa and I split the remaining work:
Five lists double-checked, five and a half thousand gifts wrapped,
And six stockings mended each.
Seven last minute gift-swaps (come on Santa, no one really deserves coal!)
And we’re packed up with eight minutes to spare. That’s what teamwork will get you!
Nine reindeer saddled up,
Ten seconds to… take off!
Eleven thousand stars in the sky, twinkling above the slumbering homes that await us.
Twelve hours of bliss; my first Christmas Eve spent as an adventurer, an equal partner, as my old self: Joy.
I can’t help but wonder if you are a teacher and think this would resonate with many. I’m glad Mrs. Claus took the reigns and delegated!
We women are great at multitasking. Happy for Mrs. Claus.
Way to go Mrs. Claus! Yes, we need to celebrate her too!! Love the mirror count-down structure:)
I love the countdown and love the count up even more 🙂
Thank you!
Love this charming and engaging poem, with a fantastic story arc, told from Mrs. Claus’ perspective, and her ride in the sky!!! I would love to see this performed, too!
Mrs. Claus made me tired . . . reminds me of my innkeeping days. Cute idea.
Santa’s Rocket Sleigh!
By Lauri C. Meyers
228 words
“I need to meet with the big guy.”
Accountant Elf barged through the door.
“With so many kids on the nice list,
One night’s not enough anymore!”
“Tonight is my moment to shine,”
Elf Engineer said with glee.
“Presenting my prototype rocket.
I call it the Sleigh 2.3!”
“Tonight?!” Santa spit out his cocoa.
The accountant ignored Santa’s frown:
“An elf’s favorite time is the present!”
Engineer said, “Beginning countdown!”
FIVE.
“Hey, has this sleigh had some testing?”
Asked Santa while strapping his belt.
“The snowmen did fine in the trials
(we only had one fellow melt…)”
FOUR.
“Will liftoff be painful?” asked Santa.
“Nausea’s the worst that we’ve seen.
As long as you didn’t eat cookies…”
Santa’s cheeks paled from rosy to green.
THREE!
“Do I need any special equipment!?”
Santa yelled over engine vibration.
“Your hat has new pads like a helmet,
And your coat can be used for flotation.”
TWO!
“The reindeer look nervous to use
the quantum propulsion to fly.”
“Like you always are saying, Santa:
“Children deserve our best try.”
ONE!
“By jolly, that’s true! I’ll be brave
As we launch on this joyous endeavor.
Merry Christmas to—“ Whooooosh!
“Whoops…
He pulled the turbo boost lever!”
(Two minutes later…) Whooooosh!
“This sleigh is so swift,” Santa sighed.
“Christmas is already through.”
“We could deliver more presents?”
“Hop in for Christmas Round TWO!”
A techy contemporary Christmas story. Good luk!
Love Santa’s reactions 🙂
So fun Lauri! I know my kids would love this countdown:)
I had to laugh out loud a few times. Fun.
A Chipmunk Christmas Eve
by Dianne Borowski
250 words
I’m Jenna. It’s Christmas Eve. I’m watching my brother and sisters. Mom is visiting Dad at the hospital. The family room was quiet until an ornament fell to the floor.
“What happened?” asked my sister Susan.
Charlie said, “It’s a Chipmunk! What’s he doing here?”
Then Charlie began to laugh.
“He looks so funny climbing our Christmas tree.” said Charlie.
Then Charlie laughed again, so hard he couldn’t catch his breath.
“Charlie,” I said “Stop laughing! This isn’t funny!”
Then Chessie, our cat, decided to join the fun. She and the Chipmunk chased each other around the room. Then the Chipmunk jumped on the table and began stuffing cranberries into his cheeks. When he finished eating he began making noises.
Charlie said, “Chipmunk’s burping.”
The noise was giving me a headache.
“Stop,” I said. “everyone be quiet! It’s bedtime. Forget about the Chipmunk.”
I wish everyone would go to sleep, I thought.
Emma was tired. She fell asleep. One down and four to go. Susan and Charlie were watching the Chipmunk when Susan”s eyes closed. Finally, two asleep. Then Charlie began scrolling his phone. When he dropped it I knew he was asleep. Three are sleeping!. Chessie fell asleep at my feet. Now everyone but the Chipmunk and me was asleep.
Mom came home. She was surprised to see the sleeping Chipmunk. She covered him gently. with her scarf and took him outside.
Mom said, “Dad’s OK. He’s coming home tomorrow.”
I looked up, smiled and fell sound asleep.
Babysittinbg is tough. Cute how you introduced a chipmunk and cat to add to the chaos. Happy ending for all. Good luck!
Hello Eleanor, so glad you enjoyed my story. Growing up, Christmas in my family was often synonymous with chaos. Even though often chaotic, I treasure those memories. Thanks for your supportive comments.
Same here. Remember the movie Home Alone? When I was a kid my cousin sled down the staircase, out the front door and into the street. on Christmas Eve. Imagine, he’s with ONU now and is still mischievous.
Now recreating that Home Alone scene was something I wouldn’t wish on anyone. He took mischief to a very high level that night. That’s a great but scary story. Thanks for sharing it!
Such a sweet story! As an oldest sister, I remember the responsibilities, but I never had to deal with a chipmunk 🙂
Thanks!
So glad everyone finally got to sleep.
Finally, not a creature was stirring! Thanks, Rose!
I had a hilarious vision in my head . . . the chipmunk stuffing cranberries into its mouth. How nice Mom covered Chipmunk . . . a sweet vision.
Thanks Jill. I love chipmunks, outside of course!
Up Up Up, Down Down Down
242 words
“$500 GRAND PRIZE!” announced the poster on the toy store window.
The tallest brick tower would win.
Jack and Jo turned to each other.
“We’ll win for sure!”
“No team can beat us!”
Everyone thought of the friends as master builders. Together they built amazing complex designs using advanced techniques.
But then they saw the words “No teams.”
Their hearts sank.
They always built together. Now they would be against each other.
The two friends stopped speaking to each other at school. Soon friends picked sides. Some rooted for Jack and others for Jo.
Contest day arrived.
If a structure fell, the builder was out.
3…2…1…Go!
CRASH …
CRASH …
CRASH…
Blocks tumbled down
A buzzer sounded.
10 builders remained including Jack and Jo.
CRASH!
9 builders
CRASH!
8 builders
CRASH!
7 builders
Jo and Jack knew they would be the final two.
CRASH!
6 builders
CRASH!
5 builders
CRASH!
4 builders
CRASH!
3 builders
Which friend would win?
Jo chose a tall piece, Jack a curved piece.
They watched each other build, taking their eyes off their own towers.
BUMP! BUMP!
CRASH! CRASH!
Shock filled their faces. Neither of them won.
Jack and Jo congratulated the winner and then each other.
“I’m sorry I let the contest get in the way of our friendship,” Jack said.
“Me too,” agreed Jo.
The friends headed out, happy with their second-place tie and planning to spend hours and hours building during the winter holiday.
Such a wonderful friendship story. It’s a great way to show why it’s always more fun working together.
Love the twist that neither won and how that was the best outcome!
Thanks ❤
Such an important lesson 🙂
Love your very suspenseful and satisfying countdown story!
The already had built a true friendship ‘together.’
CARY’S CHRISTMAS MOMENT
By Marjorie David
Words: 134
The Christmas Season was here,
and decorations abounded.
Cary waited all year for this moment.
She burst into the living room and froze.
The tree dazzled more than ever.
Atop a pine a glorious Angel graced
the descending ornaments and adornments.
10 glittering stars,
9 colored balls,
8 wooden apples,
7 miniature animals,
6 sparkly snowflakes,
5 soaring doves,
4 shimmering light strings,
3 circling garlands,
2 tinsels draped boughs,
and
1 royal purple skirt surrounded the tree.
But wait,
something was missing.
Cary searched.
Oh yes, there it was!
She sighed.
On the skirt, shaded by the boughs,
nestled the final touch.
A gift for all the world,
The Baby asleep in the manger.
From angel to skirt,
the reason for Christmas lay,
encircled in beauty and light.
All was perfect.
Christmas complete.
The most important thing was missing. Lovely ending!
Thanks for reading.
I love the line “From angel to skirt”
Thank you!
Nice story loop into the real meaning of Christmas. Well done!
I am glad you caught saw the loop.
So lovely 🙂
Thank you for caring to read.
I felt Cary’s excitement when she saw the glorious tree, and her relief when she discovered the real meaning of Christmas nestled in the tree skirt.
Thank you for feeling the emotions.
I like the purple skirt . . . a sign of royalty.
I am glad you caught the color point.
The Promise of Christmas
by Annette Bethers
249 words
Only five days until Christmas!
So much shopping to do.
In the busy city,
Too much traffic, too little time.
Everyone’s hurrying.
Everyone’s scurrying.
Everyone’s worrying.
Everyone but…
Two children
Standing quiet and still
Before a tall sooty wall.
Imagining.
Only four days until Christmas!
So much shopping and wrapping to do.
In the busy city,
Lines are long, tempers short.
Everyone’s hurrying.
Everyone’s scurrying.
Everyone’s worrying.
Everyone but…
Two children
Standing quiet and still
Before a tall, sooty wall
With brushes and paint
And an idea blossoming.
Only three days until Christmas!
So much shopping, wrapping, and mailing to do.
In the busy city,
Stores are full, shelves almost empty.
Everyone’s hurrying.
Everyone’s scurrying.
Everyone’s worrying.
Everyone but…
Two children
Quietly dipping, stroking,
Wishing, hoping.
Only two days until Christmas!
So much shopping, wrapping, mailing, and baking to do.
In the busy city,
Streets are full, tree lots empty.
Everyone’s hurrying.
Everyone’s scurrying.
Everyone’s worrying.
Everyone but…
Two children
Quietly dabbing, brushing, blending,
Dreaming.
Last day before Christmas!
So much shopping, wrapping, mailing, baking, and trimming to do.
In the busy city,
Time is ticking away.
Everyone’s hurrying.
Everyone’s scurrying until…
Everyone STOPS.
Everyone stares
At the tall—no longer sooty—wall,
Where a glistening white dove
With outstretched wings hovers
Above golden letters spelling
PEACE ON EARTH.
No hurrying.
No scurrying.
No worrying.
Everyone stands quiet and still,
Remembering
The promise of Christmas.
In the hushed city,
Two children
Walk home with empty buckets
And full hearts.
This brought tears to my eyes. Beautiful alliteration and repetition and the ending so satisfying. I love this-Everyone stands quiet and still,
Remembering
The promise of Christmas. I wish we could remember this all year long.
Wow. Once you brought those two children into the story, I couldn’t wait to hear their story.
What a beautiful reminder to let the “promise of Christmas” wash over us during quiet moments.
You nailed it! This story will indeed connect to everyone’s heart.
Absolutely beautiful 🙂
Lovely story!! Fun refrain, great language:)
Annette, this is an mazing story. The repeated refrain followed by “Everyone but…two children” grabbed my attention and heart.
Lovely!
A touching and inspiring story Annette! A story to make the reader stop and think.
Nice story . . . great refrain!
Word Count: 243
Mama says I Can Count Down To Christmas
Sally Yorke-Viney
Ten fingers, ten toes,
Two eyes ears and nose,
Mama says I can count down to .Christmas
My body, each part,
Cause I know them by heart,
Will help me countdown now to Christmas,
Each day I will count to a certain amount,
I know I can countdown this way.
Each number is less and I won’t make a mess
As I count down to Christmas each day!
My nose is the first I’ll subtract so I’ll know,
That it’s 24 days until Christmas!
My ears will be next and I won’t be perplexed,
Yes, it’s 22 days until Christmas!
My eyes minus two, now I know what to do,
Cause it’s just 20 days before Christmas!
I’ll count down my fingers each day cause I know,
Five fingers each hand equals 10.
Five left-handed fingers will help with the teens,
Five right-handed fingers tell when.
Days 19 and 18 and 17 are gone,
Then 16 and 15 fly by.
Days 14 and 13, 12, 11 go slow,
But now I’m at 10 asking why?
It’s time for left toes..10,9,8,7,6
and now just five more on the right.
5,4 3,2,1 Countdown to Christmas is done
Merry Christmas to all and good night!
So I snuggle in bed and I lay down my head
And my mama gives me a big smile
See each part of you knows that Christmas will come
You just have to count down for awhile!
This is incredible. I can imagine children in class with the teacher counting fingers and toes. Fun! Great concept book, IMO.
Oh Eleanor, Thank you so much… I am a retired Kindergarten teacher and an adjunct math professor. Maybe I’ll be able to use it somewhere some day!
Don’t say someday, just do it. I believe it has potential and you’re the best one to make it happen. Happy Holidays!
Oooo – I see a fun class, math assignment arising from the parts. Very nice!
Lorraine, I never even thought of that, delineating it by segments of the story!! Thank you so much!
This story is such a fantastic, fun read! I love the fun counting techniques.
Thanks so much… I was counting down the minutes as I submitted this at 11:54 last night! Yikes!
Such a relatable story for the littles 🙂
Why, thank you so much… nothing better than a cuddle and a bedtime story.
So sweet and fun! And yes, this can be a Christmas concept STEAM book! Well done!!
Vashti, thank you… I just shared The Dot with one of my university students and we discussed the beauty of your name (Vashti is the main character). I commented that I didn’t know anyone with that name and am now thrilled to interact with you! Thank you for the positive feedback!
Fun and imaginative!
Rose, thank you! Good to here from you again my nepa friend!
This is so cute. Love the interactivity – it will keep kids counting down along with the MC. Well done!
Thanks Marty, I always love an interactive read aloud, and hopefully it’s silly enough that their toes will get tickled!!
My favorite line: I snuggle in bed and lay down my head . . . so lyrical.
What a fabulous, child-focused Christmas countdown, Sally…and all under 250 words! Bravo!
Are we there yet?
By Melissa Rafson Friedman
83 words
Hats on, gloves on! Snowflakes fly!
Hockey players skate nearby.
Crunch, crunch, crunch!
Four more blocks to go.
Shovels scraping, snowmen waving!
Frosty weather, warm soup craving.
Crunch, crunch, crunch!
Three more blocks to go.
Candles burning, stockings full!
Sleds are sliding— push and pull.
Crunch, crunch, crunch!
Two more blocks to go.
Frozen footprints, sip cocoa!
Making angels in the snow.
Crunch, crunch, crunch!
One more block to go.
Time to dance and sing and play!
Tis the season,
“We’re here hooray!”
Lovely imagery.
Thank you all 🛷 ❄️ ⛄️ 🎄 🕎
There is so much story and imagery in so few words! Love it! Good luck.
Lovely to read aloud.
You really captured the sights, sounds, and feel of winter fun!
Love the joyful imagery 🙂
I love this so much! So kid-relatable and fun.
Winter fun that ‘s also fun to read. Nicely done.
Thank you Melissa for this great read-aloud holiday countdown story. The “crunch, crunch, crunch” moves the story forward.
I was with you every step of the way, well done! 🙂
My favorite line: Sleds are sliding–push and pull.
You fit a lot of wintertime fun into a short space!
This would make a great concept book. Fun!
Thanks Eleanor 🙂
THREE SUGAR COOKIES ON A CHRISTMAS PLATE-then there were none. Nice take on this one. Good luck!
You drew on so much imagery for this sweet story–Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, Who Stole the Cookie from the Cookie Jar, all blended together with a Christmas Countdown. Fun and lively–great job, Ashley!
Laura, I so enjoyed your Australian Christmas countdown and the phrase “Santa’s bottom knocks one–HO! is a favorite.
Thank you! So glad you enjoyed it!
Adorable 🙂
Hi, Ashley,
This reads very well. Sophie from the toddler gate is delightful.
I like how you showed the perspective of the cookies: big hungry eyes, sharp teeth and rumbly tummy.
This was so much fun to read! Good luck!
Thank you Elizabeth, I appreciate it!