⭐️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 
SMASHing countdown poem and onomatopoeia!
Thanks so much Anne!
A Very Special Advent Calendar
by Jamie Donahoe
201 Words
Chiara woke and ran to the computer. Opening the daily message from her mother, who was out of town helping family, was now the best part of her morning. Chiara marked its arrival on her countdown checklist and read it once, twice, and then a third time. Today’s message took a bit more decoding than yesterday’s had. The clues were definitely getting harder!
The mystery message led her to a hiding spot in the garage. Chiara smiled when she found the small decorative box tucked in the back of the tool bench. She wrote a fancy number 12 on it in green marker and added it to the eleven others on the dining room table.
Each box was part of the Advent calendar she and her mother were building together while they were apart. Christmas Day was Chiara’s favorite day of winter, and this year the best present would be having her mother back home after so many days away.
On the morning of November 30, Chiara found the final box. Later that night, she arranged them in the shape of a tree. Tomorrow she would open Box One and begin counting down to the day her mother would be home.
Posted on my blog at https://www.jamiedonahoebooks.com/post/a-very-special-advent-calendar
Jamie, this is such a creative and heartwarming holiday countdown story! I absolutely love the idea of a mother and daughter connecting through these online clues and the numbering and collecting of boxes. Congrats!
Thanks, Mona!
Such a lovely, heartwarming story Jamie!
So sweet Jamie. You also gave me an idea for next year. Clever and fresh adding the decoding. I see a STEM book here.
I want to see the boxes the boxes in the shape of a tree!
What a wonderful and unique idea! And good luck!
Such a creative way to countdown until mom comes home. Well done, Jamie! 🙂
ENTRY POSTED FOR SHARON
TEN SANTA COOKIES
by Sharon Jackson
WC 202
Ten Santa cookies that were sitting on a plate.
One ran off with Mrs. Claus to have a Christmas date.
Nine Santa cookies that were nestled in a row.
One slipped off and grabbed some skis and headed for the snow.
Eight Santa cookies looking scrumptious as could be.
One climbed down to catch the train and ride around the tree.
Seven santa cookies hearing songs of Christmas cheer.
One dashed off to find his sled and missing herd of deer.
Six Santa cookies wearing suits of white and red.
One feared being bitten so he grabbed his crumbs and fled.
Five Santa cookies that were trying not to crumble.
One rushed to the bathroom when he heard his tummy rumble.
Four Santa cookies that were looking cute and shy.
One jumped up and did a flip, then landed in the pie.
Three Santa cookies sharing in the Christmas joy.
One fell off the table and became the cat’s new toy.
Two Santa cookies by the cocoa, hot with steam.
One slid down a candy cane and plopped into the cream.
One Santa cookie left, alone throughout the night.
Till Santa came and drank some milk, then ate him in one bite.
Love this Sharon! Such creative ideas – I have no idea where all the cookies go in our house either. This explains it!
Thank you so much Angela. I see that we were on the same wave length with our stories! 🙂
I had fun envisioning all these cookies doing these things.
ENTRY POSTED FOR NICOLE
Countdown to Bethlehem
by Nicole Frees
word count: 250
Ten tireless travelers bound for Bethlehem.
One departs to find a gem.
Can you tell me what you see?
Come and count aloud with me!
Nine nervous travelers heading far away.
One gets lost along the way.
Can you tell me what you see?
Come and count aloud with me!
Eight eager travelers trudging through the sand.
One runs off to join a band.
Can you tell me what you see?
Come and count aloud with me!
Seven scrappy travelers trekking through the night.
One sees bears and runs in fright.
Can you tell me what you see?
Come and count aloud with me!
Six sleepy travelers with no light or map.
One sneaks off to take a nap.
Can you tell me what you see?
Come and count aloud with me!
Five fellow travelers searching stars above.
One leaves camp to find true love.
Can you tell me what you see?
Come and count aloud with me!
Four faithful travelers watching lights appear.
One falls down and hurts his rear.
Can you tell me what you see?
Come and count aloud with me!
Three thankful travelers enter into town.
One finds rest while others frown.
Can you tell me what you see?
Come and count aloud with me!
Two tired travelers on this Christmas day,
fast asleep upon the hay.
Can you tell me what you see?
What a gift for you and me!
One tiny traveler wrapped all snuggly tight,
sent to be our hope and light.
Love this countdown about the true meaning of Christmas! Well done! ~Lauren
Thank you, Lauren! Glad you enjoyed it.
I had to laugh when I read the stanza with the bears.
I wanted the kids to laugh too! But, guess what … I searched on, “What animals were in the Judean desert in biblical times?” and found this on a Univ. of Penn. site: “Many of the ‘wild beasts of the forest’ mentioned in the Bible no longer exist today as a result of intensive hunting. Among these animals are the lion, bear, antelope, wild ox, Mesopotamian fallow deer, ostrich, crocodile and hippopotamus.” Who knew?
THE REINDEERS DAY IN THE TOY SHOP
by Angel Gantnier
162 words
Three reindeers peeked through the windows.
The toy shop was empty.
All the reindeers jumped with glee.
“Our turn to make presents!”
Each reindeer raced inside and sat in an elf’s chair.
Measure – cut – sew
Pour – mix – scoop – bake
Saw – glue – paint
Three reindeers clapped their hooves.
All the reindeers sang.
“Three presents to wrap.”
Paper – tape – sticker
“Two presents to wrap.”
Tin – bag – tag
“One present to wrap.”
Cloth – string – tie
Three reindeers danced their way out of the toy shop.
All the reindeers sang.
“Three presents to hide.”
Behind the snowman.
“Two presents to hide.”
In the tree.
“One present to hide.”
Under the straw.
The next morning, everyone gathered for a Christmas celebration.
“We have a surprise for you!”
The elves looked at each other.
“We made gifts.”
“We hid the gifts.”
“You have to find the gifts.”
The elves smiled.
The reindeer sang.
“Three presents to find.”
“Two presents to find.”
“One present to find.”
“Merry Christmas, Elves!”
Angel, I love these kind reindeer surprising the elves with gifts they made and wrapped. Such a happy and clever story!
I bet the elves enjoyed their night off.
This sweet story made me smile! Nicely done, Angel.
I enjoyed this, Laura! Very fun “Down Under” elements!
Thanks Sarah – I appreciate that!
10 Frozen Elves
By Marta Cutler
(246 words)
10 frozen elves riding Santa’s sleigh
Helping to make Christmas a very special day
2 shivering elves on their way to the tree
Stop instead to make themselves a cup of hot tea
8 frozen elves, teeth all a chatter
Plummet down the chimney with a terrible clatter
1 chilly elf dropping off a globe
Finds a cozy spot in Mama’s new bathrobe
7 frozen elves, legs and arms now numb
Tumble off the rooftop and land on their bums
1 frosty elf after propping up the sled
Makes herself at home in the children’s bed
6 frozen elves, Christmas gifts in tow
Trudging house to house in the swirling snow
1 shaking elf in a little brass hat
Stays behind to curl up with the tabby cat
5 frozen elves nursing frost-bitten toes
Counting down the hours and the stockings to go
2 trembling elves after building all the toys
Find some fuzzy slippers – oh comfort and joy
3 frozen elves checking Santa’s list
Icey fingers making sure that no one gets missed
1 snow-cold elf delivers all the chocolate
Stays behind to snuggle down in Teddy Bear’s pocket
2 frozen elves one bag each to go
Shivering shaking in the sleigh, noses all aglow
1 snowy elf after tying the last bow
Soon asleep and dreaming in the large comfy throw
1 frozen, tired elf – the last on Santa’s sleigh
Claims his spot inside his coat; with a whistle, they’re on their way.
Marta, this is so creative and humorous! As someone who doesn’t like to be cold, these absconding elves have my heart. I love all the elves, especially the one with the brass hat curling up with the cat!
Thanks so much Mona! I’m so glad you like it!
Fun story! I hope your adorable elves get a warm thank you from Santa on Christmas day;) Well done!
Thank you for the lovely compliment!
My favorite part: the elf in the robe! LOL
So much fun!
SPRINKLE’S COOKIE COUNTDOWN
By Daniella Kaufman
Word Count: 250
A baking elf named Sprinkle makes
the Cookie Countdown treats
to help the elves reach Christmas day
with energizing sweets.
“Just five more days of recipes,”
he notes when . . . HO-HO-NO!!
He spies his best ingredients
discarded in the snow!
Poor Sprinkle shakes in shock until
he finds a nibbled note.
“Apologies! Your food was found
by Santa’s flying goat.”
The nutmeg—munched! The ginger—crunched!
There’s drool on candy canes!
But hungry elves are waiting, so
he checks what food remains.
“It’s better not to shout or cry,”
says Sprinkle. “I am bright!
I’ll whip up five new cookies that . . .
I hope will taste alright.”
For cookie five, he sends the elves
a pickle pop creation.
The tangy popcorn blend becomes
a winning combination!
For cookie four, he adds a dash
of mustard sugar plums.
Though not a tempting color, still
the elves hum, “Yum, yum, yums!”
For cookies number three and two,
he scatters carrot curls
atop some figgy pudding bars
and pasta frosting swirls.
Each elven step has extra pep!
They zip to fill the sleigh
while chewing scrumptious daily bites
till, YAY, it’s Christmas Day!
A final cookie will complete
the North Pole’s celebration.
And Sprinkle twinkles as he shares
his greatest innovation.
He serves a recipe that reads,
“This Christmas, WE will bake
a tasty pastry that is mixed
with memories we make.”
Together, elves (and flying goats)
blend fun and festive flavor
to end the Cookie Countdown with
a sweetness all will savor.
What a sweet story Daniella (pun intended)! Love the HO-HO-NO!
Such a fun story! Creative rhymes and details!
This is so much fun.
Very sweet! Love the flying goat too!
10 Days Until Christmas
Byline: A family counts down to Christmas while they partake in activities such as making cards and decorating cookies.
Word Count: 205
Written by Leana Lee
10 days until Christmas!
We go to pick our Christmas tree.
We decorate the tree with candy canes and ornaments. I put the star on the top.
9 days until Christmas!
Mommy and Daddy bring us holiday shopping.
We find fun toys, chocolates, and coffee gift cards.
8 days until Christmas!
We wrap all the presents in colorful paper. I tie on ribbons and stick on bows.
7 days until Christmas!
I get out paper, markers, and stickers. I make cards with drawings of polar bears on sleds.
6 days until Christmas!
We give our wrapped presents to our teachers at school. “Thank you!”
5 days until Christmas!
We walk around our neighborhood and look at all the bright Christmas lights.
4 days until Christmas!
We drop off food for charity. We give them peanut butter and canned soup.
3 days until Christmas!
We sing Christmas songs around the piano. My favorite is “Jingle Bells”.
2 days until Christmas!
We bake snowflake sugar cookies. I decorate mine with blue and white frosting and rainbow sprinkles.
1 day until Christmas!
We visit our cousins and give them their presents. We play together.
Merry Christmas!
We open our presents. We hug Mommy and Daddy. “We love you!”
Reminds me of a Hallmark Christmas Movie – something to do every day. Traditions!
Fun and full of holiday spirit!
Christmas in the Forest
By Janet A Bryce – word count 249
In a beautiful forest, a squirrel climbed a tree and sat at the top. She looked all around. “This is the one,” she called down to her friends. “We must hurry to decorate the tree before Christmas day.
‘Twas twelve days before Christmas and all through the forest the animals scurried to find decorations for their Christmas tree. They looked under rocks and in fields. They moved branches and weeds and climbed trees and dug holes.
Day 12, Squirrel collected 12 pinecones she spread around the tree.
Day 11, Fox found tuffs of red and white fur. He twirled them together and
made 11 Christmas balls.
Day 10, Coyote found 10 cobs of corn he wrapped in corn silk.
Day 9, Raccoon found 9 brown nuts she balanced on branches.
Day 8, Rabbit made 8 clusters of seeds she enclosed in green leaves.
Day 7, Bear picked 7 bunches of berries, bright and red.
Day 6, Deer found 6 orange carrots and hung them on the tree.
Day 5, The eagles gathered 5 beautiful feathers placing them gently on
branches.
Day 4, Elk sniffed around and found 5 red and green apples. “Oops I have too many.” He took a bite of one and placed four on the tree.
Day 3, Mouse made 3 bundles of hay.
Day 2, Groundhog made 2 bouquets of red flowers.
Day 1, Owl found a stick she tied into a star.
Snow started falling, making the tree sparkle.
“Merry Christmas!” said squirrel.
Teamwork . . . for a beautiful tree decorated from nature. Nice imagery.
Thank you.
Delightful! Love the sparkling tree image at the end.
Thank you.
“Kitten’s First Christmas”
By: Maura Lance
Word Count: 172
It’s kitten’s first Christmas inside her new home.
She loves all the garland, the ribbons and bows.
The fire’s so cozy, the lights fun to see!
But her favorite thing, above all, is the tree.
It’s yummy to chew on, it’s soft on her face,
And she likes to scratch it all over the place!
She climbs up inside as she visits each limb
And now, as she purrs, the real fun can begin.
5 shiny ornaments, beautiful and round.
SWAT! And the blue one crashes to the ground.
4 shiny ornaments, pretty as can be.
SWAT! And the purple one flies off the tree.
3 shiny ornaments, dazzling and bright.
SWAT! And the silver one rolls out of sight.
2 shiny ornaments, with radiance galore.
SWAT! And the pink one smashes on the floor.
1 shiny ornament, elegant and gold.
SWAT! There it goes—oh, kitten, you’re so bold!
Now the tree looks perfect, and all her work is done.
It’s time to take a rest. This “Christmas” thing is fun!
Ha! Cute and clever. Cat owners everywhere will relate to this Maura!
Thank you so much, Laura!
Spot on about cats and Christmas trees! I had a cat just like that!
A clever cat countdown.
Thank you, Leslie! I appreciate you reading and your sweet reply!
I bet that kitten loves Christmas! We had dogs; they could sniff out their gifts a mile away.
So cute, Jill! Our pets certainly add so much joy to the holidays. Thank you for your reply!
THE CHRISTMAS RUSH
By: Jany Campana
Word Count: 202
Last year, Rudolph rushed through the Christmas Eve ritual – causing his magical glow to vanish and disappointing Santa.
This year, Rudolph dedicated himself to keeping his light burning. The secret, staying focused on the joys of Christmas.
As Santa prepared the sleigh, Rudolph hustled into the snowy woods. He needed to concentrate or risk ruining the holiday deliveries.
Rudolph envisioned each of the simple holiday pleasures.
Twelve crunchy carrots. Eleven frosted cookies. Ten jingle bells.
A weak glimmer sparked his nose.
Nine elf-made toys. Eight colorful bows. Seven shiny ornaments.
The gleam grew.
Santa’s voice echoed through the trees. “Rudolph, we have a tight schedule!”
Rudolph took a steadying breath. He couldn’t rush this again.
Six stuffed stockings. Five family traditions. Four flavorful fruitcakes.
The light beamed.
Santa grew louder. “Rudolph! Time is ticking!”
Rudolph trembled. The magic was delicate. A tiny mistake could snuff out his light.
Three welcoming wreaths. Two cozy mittens.
The brightness intensified.
“Rudolph! We’re leaving without you!”
One figgy pudding. And with that, Rudolph’s nose erupted into a brilliant beacon.
Rudolph rushed back, just in time to lead Santa’s sleigh. His glow lit up the night sky. A glow powered by the true joys of Christmas.
Jany, this is so much fun! I love picturing Rudolph hiding among the trees to center himself. He gives us a great reminder to slow down and enjoy the wonders of the season!
I love the sentence “Time is Ticking.”
This is so cute, Jany! I love “brilliant beacon” ❤️
This charming story is a delightful reminder of the true joys of the season, Jany. Nicely done!
“Five Little Children”
By: Maura Lance
Word Count: 238
On Christmas Eve, snowy and white,
The children are all tucked in tight.
Momma thinks they’re sound asleep
But out of bed they slowly creep…
Downstairs (TIPTOE, QUIET and QUICK)
To get the chance to see St. Nick!
Five little children wide awake
Excited to stay up so late.
But soon they notice over there
One is snoozing in the big, red chair.
Four little children wide awake
Excited to stay up so late.
But soon they are surprised to see
One is snuggled underneath the tree.
Three little children wide awake
Excited to stay up so late.
But soon they can’t believe their ears
One is snoring with a stuffed reindeer.
Two little children wide awake
Excited to stay up so late.
But soon it is a shock to know
One is dozing by the fire’s glow.
As the clock rings midnight chimes,
Fiercely fighting heavy eyes,
One little child sits and waits
Hoping to see Santa’s face.
With a yawn she settles down
And lays her head upon the ground.
But soon she hears a THUD and TAP
Which makes her jump up from her nap!
Here at last is Santa Claus!
(Who turns and looks at her with pause.)
And with a smile big and bright,
He heads back out into the night.
Giggles, laughter, joy and fun–
She quickly wakes up everyone!
Five little children run to see
What Santa left underneath the tree!
Love this sweet bedtime countdown!
Thank you so much, Leslie!
Oh, yeah . . . I tried to stay awake, too.
Me too, Jill! Although I never had the courage to sneak downstairs. But I definitely tried to listen for Santa from my bedroom!
What a delightful story! I can just picture the last joyful scene.
Thank you so much for reading and for your sweet reply, Sarah!
ENTRY POSTED FOR KELLIE
Rudolph the Red Nosed Rhino
By Kellie Tune @FableFiddler
206 words
Poor Donner and Dasher, the whole reindeer crew
were under the weather with feverish flu.
All wheezing and sneezing, with sticky pink eye
they went to their stables, too sickly to fly.
The sleigh wouldn’t work without reindeer to run,
so Elf got her jetpack to save festive fun.
She zoomed to six pet stores and tried herding cats,
who frightened the gerbils, and scattered the rats.
The rodents ran rampant as Elf tried five pounds
in search of super-strong-well-behaved-hounds.
The pups were too stubborn, demanding Elf free
the captives in cages (even the flea).
With itching and twitching the reins ran askew…
The tangled up pups demanded shampoo!
As Elf found a sheep-dip the pups got a swim
and Elf’s hopes for Christmas grew hopelessly grim.
Four farmlands, three tundra, two oceans, a zoo,
No habitat counted revealed a new crew.
And now with no jet fuel, poor Elf hit a thicket.
Revealing horned rhinos enjoying the cricket.
The last ball was bowled as she shared her crusade…
And one red-nosed-rhino offered their aid.
They raced to the North Pole and sped through the night.
Their sleigh led by Rhino with cricket-horn-light.
And as for the creatures who were running free…
They work as the Claus’s kid-spying-trainee.
I knew I had to read this when I saw the title – so much fun, Kellie!
Haha so fun! And what a great title!
You had me at the title . . . then . . . I laughed and laughed and laughed. So funny.
Love the holiday mayhem! Very fun!
ENTRY POSTED FOR ISABEL
HOLIDAYS
COUNTDOWN
by: Isabel Cruz Rodriguez
WC: 133
25 Days starts the countdown
24 Elves load the sleigh
23 Days of roaming
22 More donkey’s bray
21 Brave Maccabees
20 Miles from the Dead Sea
19 Days of searching
18 NO ROOMS at the Inn
17 Kinds of Cookies
16 Rejects of Fruit Cake
15 More Gifts to Wrap
14 More Goodies to Bake
13 Carolers Singing
12 Things True Love gave to me
11 Delicious Latkes
10 Foods for my family
9 Reindeer – one with a red nose
8 Fun Gag gifts make you grin
7 More gifts – don’t forget those
6 Extra Dreidels to spin
5 Red Kettle rings-a-flowing
4 Time Zones visits the sleigh
3 Days of anticipation growing
2 Parents will arrange hay
1 Star Announcing He is Born Today.
Merry Christmas and a Happy Hanukkah!
Isabel, you are very ambitious to start your countdown at “25!” It’s lovely how you put both holidays into your story!
Wow! It’s a wonderful panorama of the holiday season—like watching five spectacular IMAX holiday movies all at once!
So clever and touching! Perfect to share with grandchildren!
You packed 25 days of activities into 133 words. Wow!
Isabel, I just received the sweetest email forwarded to me. What a sweetie. My heart grew a few sizes (like The Grinch). ♥️
Cookie Contest Countdown
By: Jessie Raspbury
237 Words
“Join us December 23rd, Christmas Eve eve for…
Twinkle Town’s Super Sugar Cookie Extravaganza!
The contestant with the most beautifully brilliant, delectably delicious, Twinkle Towniest sugar cookie creation takes home the grand prize!”
I’m in!
But first: practice.
December 1st: 22 days until Twinkle Town’s Super Sugar Cookie Extravaganza.
I sift.
I crack.
I roll.
Too goopy.
December 5th: 18 days until Twinkle Town’s Super Sugar Cookie Extravaganza. What a mouthful, am I right?
I roll.
I cut.
I bake.
Too crunchy.
December 10th: 13 days until Twinkle Tow… you get the idea.
I bake.
I cool.
I taste.
Just right!
But baking a terrifically tasty cookie is only half the battle…
December 18th: 5 days to master my delightful decorating skills.
I dye.
I slather.
I squeeze.
What is that even supposed to be?
December 20th: 3 DAYS BEFORE THE CONTEST! Ahem. Deep breath. Channel my inner elf.
I frost.
I smooth.
I sprinkle.
IT MIGHT AS WELL BE REINDEER BARF!
December 22nd: 1 day before my stupendously epic failure.
I’m exhausted.
I’m ashamed.
I’m SURROUNDED BY PILES OF SUGAR COOKIES!!!
Wait. I have an idea…
December 23rd: Christmas Eve eve.
“And the winner of Twinkle Town’s Super Sugar Cookie Extravaganza goes to…
THE YULETIDE TOWER OF COOKIES!!!
How splendidly sprinkly! How terrifically twinkly!! How marvelously… messy!
Step right up to collect the grand prize! ALL THE COOKIES!”
Thanks, but no thanks.
I’m all cookied out!
Aww – this is so much fun, Jessie! Enjoyed reading it.
This is so fun! It’s too bad he won’t be able to enjoy his cookie prize haha!
All along, I kept wondering how this would end . . . perfectly.
FUN!
New Year’s Countdown
By Jenna Daucunas
247 words
Twelve days to go…
when winter rolls around –
bringing frosty weather
and new snow on the ground.
Eleven days to go…
we had the longest night.
We cheer that now each day
will gain a bit more light.
Ten days to go…
we bake up lots of treats,
and share with our good friends
the yummy Christmas sweets.
Nine days to go…
a snowstorm dumps two feet.
The cars are stuck at home.
We ski right down the street!
Eight days to go…
we watch for Santa’s sleigh.
Then put pajamas on
and wait for Christmas day!
Seven days to go…
there’s magic in the air.
Family, fudge, and fruitcake –
new toys everywhere!
Six days to go…
we’ll write some thank you cards.
Thank you Auntie Claire,
Sincerely yours – regards.
Five days to go…
we sled and play with friends.
Winter break’s fantastic –
we hope it never ends!
Four days to go…
we grab some books to read.
A blanket and hot chocolate
is everything we need.
Three days to go…
it’s time for arts and crafts.
We’ll make some silly costumes –
they’re sure to get some laughs.
Two days to go…
we’ll form our own rock band,
and make some instruments
from what we have on hand.
Today’s the final day!
Can’t wait to count it down.
We gather with our friends
to celebrate in town.
It’s a whole new year!
Our countdown’s done at last.
Now we start again…
a year goes by so fast!
Jenna, such a heartwarming countdown!!!
Awesome, I love how the countdown starts again!
Well done, Jenna! I love how well the mood of the holiday break was captured in your countdown.
A nice poetic countdown to a new year.
My favorite part . . . skiing down the street. (oh, and putting on pajamas . . . my favorite time of day).
Willa Wonders Why
Karen Shakman
205 words
Willa wonders why.
“Daddy, why are there 9 reindeer?”
“It takes a lot of deer power to pull a sleigh.”
Willa wiggles a candle out of the box.
“Momma, why are there 8 nights?”
“Remember: the oil lasted 8 nights instead of one.”
Willa watches Nonno in the kitchen.
“Nonno, why do we have 7 fishes on Christmas Eve?”
“It’s what we do, Bambina.”
Willa’s voice wobbles on the high notes.
“Grammy, why are there six geese a’layin?”
“For the six days of creation, sweet-pea.”
Willa waits at the window.
“Josie, why is it already dark at 5?”
“It’s nearly the winter solstice: the shortest day of the year.”
Willa whirls the dreidel.
“Why are there four sides, Grandpa?”
“For the letters nun, gimel, he, and shin. It means a great miracle
happened here.”
Willa whisks the eggs.
“Bubbe, how can latkes have only three ingredients?”
“Always with the why! Peel away from you, pickle.”
Willa wedges next to Jacob.
“Jacob, why do we celebrate two holidays in December?”
“We have two traditions, silly: Jewish and Christian.”
Willa whistles.
Nine reindeer.
Eight nights.
Seven fish.
Six Christmas geese.
Five o’clock solstice.
Four sided dreidels.
Three ingredient latkes.
Two traditions.
And one wacky and wonderful family.
Willa asks some great questions! I love the approach and how you convey Willa’s wide-ranging observations.
Great, kid-centric way of framing the story!
– Katie
This speaks to the experience–holidays and otherwise–of so many Americans. Really enjoyed how all my senses were employed. Great alliteration with “Willa.” Fun to read!
I especially like Bubbe’s response (a little different from all the others). I smiled.
Willa is charming, and this story is delightful! I love this warm, wacky, wonderful family.
So fun, Laura! I love your creative rhymes!
Thank you Maura!
Duck Clark’s Quacking New Year’s Eve wc-150
By Jim Chaize
The gate to the biggest party of the year was set to open in 3 … 2 … 1 … QUACK.
Times Circle in New Duck City quaked with quackers.
Before long, Duck Clark appeared on the big screen.
“What an amazing crowd! Now here’s Mariah Mallard singing her smash hit ‘Duck, Duck, Goose’”.
Mariah crooned.
Cameras flashed.
Ducks danced.
As Mariah’s last notes drifted through the air, Duck Clark grabbed his mic.
“It’s time duckies, for the giant egg to countdown to 2024. Here we go 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 “ … BOING! The egg stopped.
“No!” yelled Duck Clark.
He flapped above the crowd, landed on the egg, and began jumping up and down.
A chant grew louder with each jump, “Duck Clark, Duck Clark, Duck Clark!”
He took one final huge leap, and the egg moved.
“1, 0 … HAPPY NEW YEAR!”
I’m a sucker for humor . . . hahaha . . . Duck. Duck. Goose.
This quacked me up…way to wing it! 🙂
Your reply makes me think that you could have written this, Bridget. Thanks for commenting.
This is delightful, Jim! Love that it’s Duck Clark, Mariah Mallard, and an egg drop. FUN!
‘Twas the Night Before Bunny Christmas
By Marta Cutler
(171 words)
10 shining bunny presents wrapped in golden twine
HOP!
Benji Bunny can’t resist
Now there are nine
Nine glimmering bunny presents. How can we wait?
HOP!
Beatrix Bunny certainly can’t
Now there are eight
Eight dazzling bunny presents. Simply bunny heaven
HOP!
Bertie Bunny thinks so, too
Now there are seven
Seven sparkling bunny presents. Is that Pick-up Sticks?
HOP!
Bella Bunny must find out
Now there are six
Six twinkling bunny presents waiting to surprise
HOP!
Buster Bunny sneaks his out
Now there are five
Five gleaming bunny presents. Mysteries galore!
HOP!
Bridget Bunny has to solve them
Now there are four
Four shimmering bunny presents beckoning from the tree
HOP!
Barnaby Bunny says hello
Now there are three
Three glimmering bunny presents hiding something new
HOP!
Benedict Bunny shakes his open
Now there are two
Two shiny bunny presents waiting for someone
HOP!
Bessie Bunny knows it’s her
Now there is one
One shiny bunny present, Christmas morning fun
HOP!
Blossom Bunny takes her time
Now there are none
I love how you worked in Beatrix.
Sweet! I can just picture adorable bunny illustrations to go with this.
The 12 YAYs of Christmas
By Ryann Jones
(150 words)
A merry time of year is near.
I’m counting down the days.
And while I wait, I’ll celebrate
my many Christmas YAYs!
12 days to go, but YAY, cocoa
for caroling we go!
11 rides and wow, time slides
while sledding in the snow.
10 games to play and yippie YAY,
we’re off to see the lights!
9 secret, sweet deliveries
while soaking in the sights.
8 ginger snaps and YAY, perhaps
we’ll eat the houses too.
With 7 types of candy canes
attached with frosting glue.
6 gifts handmade that, YAY, we trade
to spread the Christmas cheer.
5 cozy sweaters to be worn
throughout the coming year.
A 4-hour quest, and YAY, the best,
most perfect Christmas tree.
Like 3 wise men, we gather in
the warmth of family.
2gether YAY, on Christmas Day.
So happy in the morn.
All because—the biggest YAY—
1 baby boy was born.
Very cute way to countdown to Christmas, Ryann!
– Katie
This is so fun, Ryann! And does a great job of covering so many of our holiday traditions, too!
Love the title, the many traditions mentioned, and the beautiful ending. Well done!
Great job, Ryann!
Wonderful!
This is so fun and joyful, Ryann! I especially love the last stanza 🥰
Such a cute poem Ryann! I love all of the holiday celebrations that make us go yay! 🥰
This is so cute! 🙂
Love this, Ryann! So joyful and bouncy! And what a perfect ending. YAY!
ENTRY POSTED FOR LAURA
Slurpy Sam and the Slimy Slugs
By Laura DeGrave
250 words
Slurpy Sam the seagull loved slimy slugs. His friend, Sally Salamander wished she knew
how to count. Slurpy Sam made his friend an advent calendar. Sally Salamander popped up and
down in excitement.
She opened the first day with her sticky tongue. “A slimy slug!”
“One,” said Slurpy Sam.
Sally Salamander opened the next day and found more than one slimy slug.
“Two,” Slurpy Sam counted.
The following day, she opened another door. More slimy slugs were inside.
“Three,” shouted Slurpy Sam.
“What could be inside day four?” Sally Salamander wondered.
“Four slimy slugs!” Slurpy Sam flapped his wings.
Day five was no surprise. More slimy slugs fell from the advent calendar.
“Five!” Sung Slurpy Sam.
Day six arrived. It oozed with slime.
“Six!” Slurpy Sam tapped his feet.
“How many more could there be?” Sally Salamander asked.
“Today there’s seven. They taste like heaven!” Slurpy Sam hummed.
She opened the door numbered eight. Slimy slugs wiggled in a pile.
“Eight!” Slurpy Sam flew a loop-de-loop.
Another day, more slimy slugs came out of the advent calendar.
“Nine!” Slurpy Sam chattered his beak.
Sally Salamander’s tongue lost its stick. Her friend poked the door open.
“Ten!” Slurpy Sam’s stomach growled. Counting made him hungry.
Day eleven meant more slimy slugs. Sally Salamander couldn’t eat another bite.
Slurpy Sam pushed door eleven open. Out poured the slimy slugs.
“Eleven! Tomorrow is Christmas!” Slurpy Sam smiled.
Sally Salamander opened the last door.
“Twelve! Merry Christmas!”
“Let’s share!”
Merry Slimy Slug Christmas, Ya’ll!
This is such a unique story! Good job! 🎄
My favorite line: popped up and down with excitement. Nice visual.
THE NEVER-ENDING CHRISTMAS SONG
by Sheri Bentley
242 words
Jayden excitedly announced, ” Mom, there’s a countdown contest in music class! I’m going to win by singing “Silly Chilly Santa” to you 20 times before school tomorrow!”
He belted out “Silly Chilly Santa”. “19 more to go!”
Jayden counted down each song. “18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12…”
His mom quickly grew tired of the singing. “Let’s watch a holiday movie!”
“No, I have 11 more to go!”
Mom sighed.
“Well…what about singing a different song?”
“But this one’s my favorite!” Jayden bellowed.
Jayden’s throat felt scratchy as he sang the song for the 10th time. After dinner, his voice disappeared.
“You have laryngitis,” said Mom. “No more singing.”
Jayden panicked. Time was running out!
“What if you lip-sync?” asked Mom.
‘NO!’ Jayden wrote on his whiteboard.
Jayden gargled with salt water and sucked on cough drops. Nothing helped.
By morning, Jayden’s voice was back.
“I have to sing the song to you 9 more times before school!”
“Um… I need to mail some Christmas presents.”
“The presents can wait!”
Mom rolled her eyes.
Jayden counted down each song again. “10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. I did it! ”
He sprinted to music class.
Jayden raced home after school to show his mom the prize—the sheet music for “Silly Chilly Santa” and a tambourine.
“I can sing AND play the song for you 20 more times!” he beamed.
Now his MOM was speechless.
🎼🎵 love the last line!
Agreed, that last line really seals the deal! 🙂
Hi Sheri! Happy to see you here! ☺️This story made me smile so big at the end. So cute and funny! And I feel the mom’s pain. 😅 Great job!
Hahaha. Great ending. My mom used to say, “I’ve heard about as much of that as I can enjoy.”
The Just-Right Christmas Tree
By Jessica Iwanski
250 Words
Shouts of “TIM-BER!!!” echo through the forest.
All alone, a balsam tree shivers in the peppermint air. Maybe this is the year she’ll be chosen. But with three days until Christmas, time is running out.
The flutter of feather-soft wings, and a chickadee alights on her branch. He places several twigs in the crook, flitting away to gather more.
“Shoo!” the tree scolds. “I need to look just right today!”
But the chickadee pays no mind, settling gratefully amongst the evergreen limbs.
“Alright, but only for now,” the tree sighs, watching the sun sink behind sugar-snow hills.
Two days left.
Morning brings the sound of rustling below: a rabbit clearing dry space near the tree’s roots.
“Find someplace else!” the tree begins to say. But then she notices the rabbit shivering as he works.
“Well, perhaps just for tonight….”
Christmas Eve – and the final day. The pitter-patter of tiny feet wakes the tree as a chilly mouse scurries up her trunk, happily wriggling into a hollow.
“Tomorrow is Christmas!” the tree says mournfully. “I’ll never be chosen when I look all wrong.”
But she hasn’t the heart to shoo the poor mouse away.
That night a freezing rain falls. Sheltered in her branches, the animals remain safe and warm.
Christmas dawns cold and bright. The rain leaves icicles delicately dripping from the tree’s branches, like thousands of sparkling lights.
She has never been more beautiful.
And as she gazes around her, she finds that everything is just right after all.
What lovely descriptions! And what a fabulous ending. Great job!
Thank you, Abby! I appreciate that! ☺️
I love your voice! Beautiful choice of words. Oh . . . the story was tood, too.
good
Thanks, Jill! That means a lot. 😊 thank you for reading!
Oh, Jessica, I love your lyrical holiday countdown and your kind and empathetic tree, as well as the idea that you don’t always have to be “chosen” to be able to feel like you’re capable of being/doing something worthwhile. This resonates with me on so many levels. Thank you for writing this!
Mona, thank you so much! You just made my day! 😊♥️ I feel like we may have similar writing tastes and styles. I’d love to partner with you on critiques someday if you’re ever needing an extra pair of eyes on a project. ☺️
Jessica, I would absolutely love that!!!! Thank you so much for thinking of that!!! Let’s do it!!!!!
Yay!!! My email is jessicajoyiwanski@gmail.com and feel free to send something along whenever you have the time! 😊
And Now There Are None: A Tale of Ten Christmas Ornaments
By Jessica Iwanski (entry #2)
190 Words
Ten eager ornaments prepared for Christmas time.
Their box goes tip, and out one flips,
And now there are nine.
Nine nervous ornaments now ponder such a fate.
Dad tries to place the star on top,
And now there are eight.
Eight solemn ornaments remember fallen brethren.
A slip, a trip, and down Sis goes,
And now there are seven.
Seven nervous ornaments, cut to their very quicks.
The toddler cries, “I want a turn!”
And now there are six.
Six stricken ornaments, worry for their lives.
The cat prowls by, a glinting eye,
And now there are five.
Five quaking ornaments, shaken to the core.
A tussle breaks between the twins,
And now there are four.
Four shrinking ornaments tremble anxiously.
They watch big brother shout, “Go long!”
And now there are three.
Three weary ornaments bravely soldier through.
Mom isn’t watching where she sweeps,
And now there are two.
Two jaded ornaments pray the end would come.
A jolly dog, a wagging tail,
And now there is one.
One frantic ornament has had his Christmas fun.
He rolls himself right through the door
And now there are none.
Jessica, this is so charming and clever! I love the twist at the end – run AWAY!
Thank you, Katie! Christmas can be a dangerous time for an ornament. 🤣
Fun story, and very relatable! Just tonight my husband broke an ornament and was cursing the fact that we own breakable ornaments.
Haha! We’ve had several causalities this year as well! It’s tough out there.
As a former teacher, this would be fun for a class to illustrate.
Una, what a compliment! 🙂 Such a fun idea. I would love to see the way kids would illustrate this!
Love, love, love the brother shouting, “Go Long.” I’ll be giggling about that for a while.
Inspired by my own son! It gave me a good giggle, too. 😉 Glad you enjoyed, Jill! Thanks for taking the time to comment!
I loved reading a down under Christmas story! Thanks for writing and sharing:) This would be fun to see illustrated.
Thanks so much for your kind words, Vashti! I would also love to see it illustrated 🙂
Eight Little Reindeer
by Katrina Swenson
248 Words
Eight little reindeer reporting for duty,
ready to hitch to the sleigh.
Their bells jingle jangle as reins drape and dangle,
prepping to dash, dash away.
A cough and a sputter, an URP and a shudder!
What is this hullabaloo?
Dasher’s impacted—it seems he’s contracted
a case of the Chimney Stack Flu!
The seven remaining are sure they can do it.
They’re capable! Confident! Keen!
Oh no…what’s that groan? And that whimper? And moan?!
Prancer’s a dull shade of green.
Six little reindeer are feeling short-hooved,
but look at the sleigh with resolve.
Did somebody wheeze? Please don’t say it! Oh geez!
Blitzen’s begun to devolve!
Five little reindeer are starting to panic—
that load in the sleigh is so tall!
A SNIFF! One more goner? They all look at Donner—
“Just hay fever! Promise! That’s all!”
Four little reindeer relax with relief
and huddle to draw up a plan.
“Did you hear a thud?” Look who’s down with the crud!
“Guess it’s not allergies, man!”
Three little reindeer are feeling quite sick.
Cupid is coughing and hacking.
Poor little Comet is covered in—never mind!
And Vixen’s vitality’s lacking.
One little reindeer is left all alone.
Dancer’s distressed and dejected.
That sleigh’s much too heavy without a full bevy
of reindeer who aren’t…well, infected.
“Christmas is cancelled!” He sobs in his hooves.
But Santa knows just what to do.
“We have deer we can switch—“ Santa’s beard starts to twitch.
“We’ve” (sniff) “got extra-a-aah-aaah AAAA-CHOOOOOOO!”
This is SO cute! Well done!
Great job, Katrina! Although the parallels to teaching in the elementary classroom and a little too on the nose … aaah-choo! 😉
Oh this is so funny! It made me giggle throughout. Really fun!
This made me giggle throughout! All those poor reindeer aliments. Great job!
Love the voice, love the reindeer, love the wordplay and rhyme! This is awesome, Katrina!
I sooooooooooo enjoyed this from beginning to end.
Jany, this is so much fun! I love picturing Rudolph hiding among the trees to center himself. He gives us a great reminder to slow down and enjoy the wonders of the season!
Diana, I posted the above comment in the wrong spot, so sorry! I love your tale of Eduardo the Elf, best of luck to you!
No problem, Jennifer. Thank you for your kind words!
The Twelve Stops Till Grandma’s
By Jill Dombrowski
Words 231
On the train to Grandma’s, twelve stops to go.
Tom Snare nods goodbye while drumming his bongo.
On the train to Grandma’s, eleven stops to go.
Fifel Flute toots farewell upon his piccolo.
On the train to Grandma’s, ten stops to go.
Lord Leapy leaves with a dash landing on his toe.
On the train to Grandma’s, nine stops to go.
Lady Ballet smiles, twirls and bows out like a pro.
On the train to Grandma’s, eight stops to go.
Madeline Dairy hurries forth clutching hot coco.
On the train to Grandma’s, seven stops to go.
Wade S. Cygnet strides on by going with the flow.
On the train to Grandma’s, six stops to go.
Eggbert Gosling fumbles off balancing his cargo.
On the train to Grandma’s, five stops to go.
Goldie Loops blows a kiss with a sprig of mistletoe.
On the train to Grandma’s, four stops to go.
Robin Calloway bellows, “so long,” with great gusto.
On the train to Grandma’s, three stops to go.
Henrietta clucks, “goodbye,” her rosy cheeks aglow.
On the train to Grandma’s, two stops to go.
Shelly Dove exits with a wave of her elbow.
On the train to Grandma’s, one stop to go.
Mrs. Partridge gives a wink like she’s in the know.
On the train to Grandma’s, then I holler, “Whoa!”
We’re finally here with Christmas cheer, a hug grandma does bestow.
What a clever play on “The 12 Days of Christmas” this is! I love all the names you used.
Thank you for your kind comment! I’m most proud of ‘Goldie Loops’ for the five golden rings verse.
My favorite is Wade S. Cygnet! So clever.
Thank you Leslie! I picture him in a white suit with a feathery cravate and black top hat.
I love this, Jill, it’s so much fun! I think my favorite is Goldie Loops 🎄
Thank you Lindsay!
My favorite stanza: the kiss with a sprig of mistletoe.
Thank you Jill!
Love the wordplay in the names and the “singyness” (not a real word) but you know what I mean of this sweet story that gets us to grandma’s hug!
Thank you for your thoughtful comment! Nothing better than a hug after a long journey.
Tiptoes
Helen Hauser
156 words
It used to be 15. Now it’s just 12. Twelve little steps to the closet. My Christmas presents are in there.
Oh no…Buddy, you can’t come with me! You are SO LOUD. No, Buddy, sit over here!
Twenty-five steps now.
BUDDY. This is all your fault.
Twenty-four steps. 23-22-21-19-18-17-16-15-14-13-12-11-10-9…
BUDDY, no!!
Ok fine, come here. Put my socks on so your claws don’t click.
Eight steps. But that floor board creaks so this has to be my lightest step of all.
Made it.
Seven steps.
Six steps.
Five steps.
Good boy, Buddy, go downstairs.
CRASH.
Oh no. A dog can’t go down the stairs in socks!
But quick—while Mom is checking on Buddy, I can go into the closet!
4-3-2-1…YES.
Where can those presents be? Behind the coats and shoes? Under the boots?
Oh NO.
Up on the shelf.
Where’s the step stool?
Now there’s 4 more steps.
Three. Two. One…
Oh, hi Mommy.
Nothing…
So funny! My husband got present-hunting when he was a child. The catch? He was able to *open* the attic stepladder but wasn’t able to get it back up unassisted.
Great job, Helen! I love this!
I adore a surprise ending.
The Christmas House
By Heather C. Morris
246 words
Felicity’s name meant “joy,” but she couldn’t muster a smidgen of it this Christmas.
Not after last year…when she’d asked Santa for a puppy…
And unwrapped black boots instead.
Then the letter arrived.
To Miss Felicity Nelson
Shiny gold letters winked at her. She ripped open the envelope.
You are needed at
THE CHRISTMAS HOUSE.
Appearing December 24.
Don’t be late.
She blinked.
Appearing where? What did that mean? Who sent this?
Another holiday prank. Like Santa. And magic. And joy.
But on Christmas Eve, out her window, she saw…
…The empty lot across the street…
Wasn’t empty!
Lights twinkled. Music played. She smelled cookies baking.
She found a note inside the door –
Right now, this house is hidden from sight,
But countdown five tasks on Christmas night,
And you can help bring Christmas joy,
To other girls and other boys.
Five stockings beside a blazing fire.
Felicity filled them.
Four unwrapped presents lay nearby.
She wrapped them all.
Three garlands stretched on the floor.
Felicity draped them over the door.
Two gingerbread houses on the kitchen counter.
She frosted and decorated.
And last – she trimmed the lovely tree.
As she hung the last, sparkling ball…
…kids filled the front hall!
Her friends from school. Kids she’d never met.
They smiled and waved and shook her hand.
One girl said shyly,
“The Christmas House looks grand. It was my turn last year. Isn’t it magical?”
Felicity felt something flutter inside.
Then she realized –
It was JOY!
Also posted on my website – https://heathercmorris.com
Nothing beats a bit of Christmas magic. Such joy!
Very true, isn’t it?! I love the magic of this season. Thanks, Leslie!
Love the spirit of giving in this story! Really well done, Heather!
Such a satisfying ending! The joy was palpable!
Thanks, Lori!
The story builds such great tension! This was a lot of fun to read.
Thanks so much, Russell!
GREAT story. I was on the edge of my seat to find out about this house.
ENTRY POSTED FOR JUDY
CAN TIME REALLY ZIP? 248 Words
By Judy Caldwell Hughes
Summer’s sun scorches: I feel like fried chicken. Cool, Christmas snow tingles are only memories. Would a countdown speed-up their return?
School starts. I begin to write 10, but instead, rush to scoot things aside for my friend on wheels. BINGO! An idea sparkles my brain: Every count can include a kind action, too.
10 – School’s bell dings. I clear a path.
9 – Autumn rains fall. Friends cheer when I share my umbrella.
8 – Whirling winds whoosh. A girl’s frown becomes a grin when I ask
her to help sail my kite.
7 – Leaves leap and litter. My neighbor, wearing a cast, claps as I rake
his yard.
6 –Darkness begins to blanket the sky in afternoon, so before dinner I invite others to play flashlight tag.
5 – Migrating birds flock to my yard. Cheery chirps erupt as I
refill the bird bath and feeder.
4 – Jack Frost nips noses and toes-es, so I cover-up plants to let their flowers smile longer.
3 – Witches, goblins and more swarm the sidewalks. As I swish about, my ghost costume glows and lights-up our path. Saying, “Tha-a-a-nks for the treat,” sparks giggles galore.
2 – When roast turkey scents tickle my nose, I invite neighbors to
celebrate their first Thanksgiving in America.
1 – Like sugar filling a cup, on Christmas Eve snow falls. O-o-oh, cool
tingles. As I share my sled, new friendships sprout.
Did time really zip? Hm-m-m. Would a kindness count, speed-up the time to my birthday?
My favorite part: Jack Frost (love the way you said this)
ENTRY POSTED FOR Suzanne
Polar Vision News by S.J. Barratt (244 words)
🎄✨ ‘Greetings!! Live from Santa’s bustling workshop, we’re thrilled to kick off the YuleFest Countdown! Joining us is the esteemed Vice-President of the Season—none other than the merry “Elf on the Shelf”!
🎅🎙 ‘Hello, lovely viewers! Time’s ticking, but fear not! YuleFest is locked and loaded with our new global strategy. Let me break it down for you: Ten days are left to BookTok your orders for a YuleFest Eve delivery! Santa’s global logistics are in full swing, with Nine Sortation Centers piled sky high with great stories to read. Eight reindeer are on daily delivery duty, spreading joy across the skies.
📚🎁 Hold onto your hats! Seven flex drivers, trained by Rudolph, are using their magical sleighs on a flexible schedule. Six route planners, armed with the magic of time zones are tapping into time variations. Five logistical goblins are fine-tuning the details, and Four quality inspectors ensure your literary treasures are in top-notch condition.
😇🌐 Our Three celestial YuleFest angels will oversee the ebb and flow of inventory, two elves take center stage in the import-export waltz, and our N° 1 Maestro, Mrs. Claus will be orchestrating everything from the snowy heights of the North Pole, ensuring everyone gets hot chocolate when the going gets hard. Your books—ebooks, paperbacks, hardbacks, or audibles—will grace your tree when the festive clock chimes for YuleFest family storytelling.
Thank you “Elf on the Shelf”, Stay tuned viewers for more joy direct from your North Pole channel! 🎅📺
Such original voice and invented words! With sortation centers, flex drivers and Yulefest angels, book delivery is guaranteed. Better than Amazon. Love it.
Way to go with this modern twist.
ENTRY POSTED FOR KRISTA
CHRISTMAS PLAY COUNTDOWN
By Krista Harrington
121 words
One, two. Buckle my shoe.
Three, four. We’re out the door.
Five, six. I won’t play tricks.
Seven, eight. Can’t be late.
Nine, ten. I’m a wise man!
Ten, nine. Just have one line.
Eight, seven. Will God hear me in heaven?
Six, five. “Faster! Can I drive?”
Four, three. Little bro, let me be.
Two, one. This play will be fun!
One, two. Forgot what to do.
Three, four. The church can’t hold more!
Five, six. Tummy butterflies kick.
Seven, eight. Not feeling great.
Nine, ten. What’s my line, again?
Ten, nine. Okay, I’m fine.
Eight, seven. Next to best friend, Kevin.
Six, five. Leader jokes, “Look alive.”
Four, three. Can Mom and Dad see?
Two, one. “Merry Christmas, everyone!”
Nice description: butterflies kick
“What’s my line, again?” this cracks me up! I love this little guy.
ENTRY POSTED FOR CARMEN
Title: Countdown to LA NAVIDAD
By Carmen Castillo Gilbert, PhD
Word Count: 250
Doce – twelve days before la Navidad, Papi and I buy the prettiest tree we can find.
Once – Eleven days before la Navidad, I help Mami decorate el árbol and la casa.
Diez – Ten days before la Navidad, Mami and I send our Christmas tarjetas with our best holiday wishes.
Nueve- Nine days before La Navidad, Abuela Lola and I set up the Nativity scene, el pesebre.
Ocho – Eight days before la Navidad, our entire neighborhood participates in posadas, visits to homes in our barrio to remind us of Joseph and Mary’s search for a place to stay.
Siete – Seven days before la Navidad, Aunt Ana, Uncle Tomás and mis primos arrive from México.
Seis – Six days before la Navidad, mi familia donates at our local food pantry.
Cinco – Five days before la Navidad we go to my school’s Christmas play. I’m an angel.
Cuatro – Four days before la Navidad, Mami, Abuela Lola, Tía Ana and I bake galletas. Yummy cookies! And drink chocolate caliente, hot cocoa.
Tres – Three days before la Navidad, mis primos and I run outside to play in la nieve. It snowed last night.
Dos – Two days before la Navidad, we buy from our bakery a Three Kings bread, or Rosca de Reyes. ¡Delicioso! With lots of melted butter!
Uno – One day before la Navidad, we wear our best clothes to church for La Nochebuena service.
LA NAVIDAD has arrived! I love celebrating our Christmas traditions with mi familia!
Carmen, I enjoyed how you counted down in Spanish, and your story about preparing for the holiday with your entire family was lovely.
This is a truly touching story about family, community, and the holiday. Being in two languages makes it even more special!
What a lovely tribute to family and holiday!
Well done! I loved this.
ENTRY POSTED FOR ELIZABETH
Three Dozen Cookies
by Elizabeth Thoms Charles
239 words
In a neat burrow, rabbits decorated for Christmas.
Packages tied with shiny ribbons sat under the Christmas tree.
The rabbits went out, one by one on a sunny, snowy afternoon to gather food.
They returned with carrots.
Eldest rabbit noticed the gold ribbon was missing from his package.
“Where’s the ribbon? Did you take the ribbon?”
“Not me,” replied, Middle rabbit.
“Not me,” replied, Youngest bunny.
The rabbits went out for frozen berries. They returned to find a silver ribbon missing and a metallic red ribbon missing.
“Who took the ribbons,” Middle rabbit demanded.
“Not me.”
“Not me.”
“We’ll hide behind the sofa and watch. We’ll eat cookies while we wait,” Youngest bunny said.
They took three dozen cookies behind the sofa. Thirty-six holiday cookies waited to be eaten.
An hour passed the rabbits ate one dozen, twelve, cookies. Nary a mouse entered the burrow. Twenty-four, two dozen, cookies remained.
A second hour passed the rabbits ate another dozen, twelve, cookies. Nary a cricket appeared. Twelve, one dozen, cookies remained. They took a nap.
In the fourth hour a crow hopped through the open doorway and picked at the glinting ribbons on the packages.
“Why are you stealing our ribbons?” Eldest rabbit asked.
“I’m decorating my nest,” Crow said.
“Have some gleaming pink ribbon,” Middle rabbit said.
“Merry Christmas. Goodbye,” the rabbits said.
The rabbits closed the door firmly and ate the last dozen, 12 cookies. Zero cookies remained.
I bet that was the prettiest nest ever!
ENTRY POSTED FOR JENNY
Goat’s Christmas Surprise
By Jenny Crooks-Johnson
248 words
“Goat, there are only five days until Christmas,” said Ms. Muffy. “Christmas is for giving. I must get baking!”
“Maaa,” said Goat. He liked Christmas baking. Ms. Muffy saved the best cookies for him—the nice black ones.
Goat had an idea. This year he would surprise Ms. Muffy with a treat.
So…
On the fifth day ‘til Christmas Goat saved five of the burned cookies Ms. Muffy gave him.
On the fourth day ‘til Christmas Goat decorated them with scrumptious mud.
On the third day ‘til Christmas Goat dusted them with flakes of grass.
On the 2nd day ‘til Christmas Goat sprinkled them rotten carrot bits. They looked goatlicious!
When there was only one more day ‘til Christmas, Ms. Muffy left the house with five plates of cookies for the neighbors. She forgot to give Goat his morning pellets. He looked at the cookies. Do. Not. Eat. Them.
Crunch. Crunch.
“Maaa!” said Goat. What did I do? He hung his head in Goat despair. There was only one cookie left. He looked around and saw what he must do for Ms. Muffy. He placed his yummiest shoe on top of the cookie.
On Christmas morning Goat rang the doorbell and hid.
When Goat saw Ms. Muffy’s face he knew it worked. She looked surprised.
“Thank you, Santa’s elf goat,” said Ms. Muffy. “I feel loved. Now I just need my Goat to share it with.”
And that’s when Goat decided his Valentine’s surprise would be even better.
Hahaha . . . ‘goat despair.’
So cute!! Love this charming main character.
The Cookie Calamity
By: Katie McEnaney
249 words
Amelie grinned as she frosted the twelfth and final snowflake cookie. Perfect! She hoped the snowstorm wouldn’t spoil her first-ever Solstice Party.
DING-DONG!
“It’s Mateo!” yelled Amelie’s little sister, Camille.
“I brought hot chocolate with cinnamon and chiles. It’ll heat you up, inside and out!”
“Great!” Amelie set the drinks down by her nine cookies. Wait, nine? But before she could investigate…
DING-DONG!
Faith and Mei dropped their dumplings near the seven cookies. “If anyone is cold, dumplings were invented as frostbite medicine,” chirped Mei, running off with Camille.
DING-DONG!
Rory, Lachlan, and Fiona tramped in with Scottish biscuits. “Good thing we brought enough to go ‘round,” said Lachlan, eyeing the plate of four cookies.
Amelie kept holding the door. Ayo, Olumide, Jelani, and Tobi shook off their winter gear. “Nigerian doughnuts,” Ayo declared. “Thankfully Auntie was snowed in with us!”
Amelie surveyed the impressive scene: hot chocolate, dumplings, biscuits, doughnuts… an empty plate!?
“It’s not the Solstice without my cookies! I made a dozen snowflakes,” Amelie moaned. “One for each of us.”
“We’re only ten,” said Rory, counting heads.
“Then we’re missing two… suspects!” Faith declared, hunting for Mei and Camille.
The kids burst into Camille’s room.
“Welcome to my Solstice Tea Party!” Camille grinned. The snowflake cookies were sitting in a circle with an array of stuffies. “I have enough for each of you!”
Amelie relaxed. “You planned this for us? How kind.”
Camille beamed. Everyone found a spot. “To friends and the Solstice!” they toasted.
(Posted on my blog at https://katiemcenaney.com/the-cookie-calamity/ )
I love this, Katie! (And so happy to see your name here 😊) Such a fun way to incorporate traditions from around the world. Great work!
Thanks, Jessica! You too. 😉
The first two paragraphs set the scene nicely. Now I’m hungry.
This is so sweet and I loved reading about all the different dishes!
This is adorable! I love all the different holiday treats and the sweet ending.
TREE’S LONG, DARK NIGHT
by Katie Schwartz
WC – 248
Tree shivered. “Winter Solstice
brings the longest darkest night.
Last year I was a sapling.
I shook til it was light.
“Ten leaves are all I have now.”
The wind blows to and fro.
“Oh-oh, they’re going…one-by-one…”
I sigh and watch them go.
Nine bunnies running circles.
Playing chase the tail.
“Please stay, it’s hours until dawn.”
They hop on down the trail.
Eight chirpy spunky sparrows
trill out a solstice song.
I stretch and make them comfortable.
They don’t stay for long.
Seven shards of sunlight
soothe my heavy heart.
Brightly first, then fading.
They too – soon – will depart.
Six scratchy brambly branches.
At least I have them still!
Spindly – but I hold them close
against midwinter’s chill.
Five woodsmen swinging axes,
searching for a tree.
Singing out a woodsman’s song.
PHEW…they let me be!
Four playful foxes frolic,
as night and darkness fall.
I shout and wave, “Friends, can’t you stay?”
Did they hear me at all?”
Three owls winging silently.
Eyes big and extra-bright.
I didn’t have the time to call,
“You’re welcome here tonight.”
Two rumblings rising upward.
The earth is anxious too.
Awaiting just a little light
to say we’ve made it through.
One star shines bright and twinkly.
Just wait it seems to say
I blink, it’s gone…and then I see
the dawning light of day!
“Good morning, little tree.” My friends!
“We watched you through the night.
Strong and brave! And now – hurray –
let’s greet the morning light!”
Katie, I love your sweet and beautifully descriptive winter solstice tree story, especially the happy ending with tree and all the friends together!
Thank you Mona! Love Susanna’s challenges, I hope you entered too!
Lovely POV of the transition of one season into the next. The woodsmen with axes is a fitting moment of quiet conflict that adds shape to your quiet story. I felt I knew this poetic little tree quite well by the end!
Thank you! I hate to say it, but I often feel that I am not writing the stories…they are writing themselves.
How wonderful!
So much emotion in your story of the little tree! Great countdown and beautiful language. I was immersed in the wintertime forest! Bravo, Katie!
Thank you Jill! I enjoyed the process, lol. Thank you for reading and commenting!
Great story Katie! I can totally see this as a PB! Lots to work with for illustrations.
Thank you Michelle! had to research a little about the Winter Solstice first, it was very interesting. Thank you for reading and commenting!
This told from the tree’s POV was nice. I especially like the last stanza.
Thank you P.J., I appreciate your comment, and thank you for reading!
The Santa Clues – A Holiday Detective Story
By Melissa Borowicz Betrus
250 Words
I can’t wait to discover
what’s under the tree!
There must be some goodies
from Santa to me!
Mom and Dad said, “No peeking
until the sun shines!”
But… I must know if he came!
I must look for signs!
Ten big-sized footprints
are pressed in the snow!
I see each one clearly
inside the moon’s glow.
Nine sets of small holes
in rows nice and neat
have been left behind
by all the hooved feet!
Eight candy canes
hang from hooks on the wall!
I notice each one
as I sneak down the hall.
Seven strands of tinsel
that weren’t there before
are now sparkling up
from the living room floor!
Six shelled nuts lay
by the nutcracker’s base.
Somebody used it,
that must be the case!
Five snowman statues
got bumped out of place.
They’re all twisted backwards –
you can’t see each face!
Four marshmallow lumps
are all that remain
of the drink I left out –
the cocoa’s been drained!
Three sugary crumbs,
frosted and sweet,
were once a big pile
of whole cookie treats!
Two sooty fingerprints –
Wait! Now I’m fretting!
Please don’t tell me
it’s coal that I’m getting!
One big pile of presents
is just steps away!
Will any be mine?
What will the tags say?
I spy my name!
I had nothing to fear!
I knew that I’d been
A good kid all this year!
“I’ll sleep through the night!
I promise!” I said.
So now I think I better
get back to bed!
Your holiday detective story countdown is so creative and humorous! I especially love the fretting about getting coal and the great ending!
Thank you, Mona!
Wonderful storyline. I love the rhyming as well. Good luck!
Thank you!
Cute countdown Melissa! Love your title, The Santa Clues!
Thank you! I appreciate the feedback!
This story is so much fun!!! I love the mystery and intrigue and can totally imagine some amazing illustrations to accompany it.
Thank you so much for the wonderful compliments!
I really enjoyed the mystery and the creative clue countdown!
Thank you!
My favorite stanza: nine.
Thank you!
77 Good Deeds
By Nichole Stratton
WC: 141
12 shiny rocks for my classmates. Scavenger Hunt at recess!
11 scrunchies for my teacher, who is always losing hers.
10 stickers for my brother (who is NOT supposed to stick them to the car).
9 pom-poms for Mr. Cat, one for each of his lives.
8 buttons for Ms. Louise, who knits everybody a sweater.
7 bracelets for Ana, because she’s 7 years old and my very best friend.
6 temporary tattoos for my cousins. We’ll match on Christmas Day!
5 rings for my neighbor friends, so we can have special powers together.
4 stuffies for my Little Buddy, because she’s still really little.
3 handmade cards for my grandparents (the ones who are still living).
2 paintings for Mama and Daddy, who love my art more than anything else.
1 request to Santa… because I’ve been really good, right?
Cute! I love the kid-centric idea of good deeds as payment for presents too. 🙂
Thank you! 🙂
I love this idea of a countdown that incorporates good deeds and each of your lines have such great description and voice! Great job!
Thanks!!
My favorite: 9 (for the cat) . . . hahaha.
ENTRY POSTED FOR HALLIE
Ms. Sunny’s Class Presents “The 12 Days of Christmas”
By Hallie Christensen
250 words
It was almost Christmas break and Ms. Sunny’s 2nd grade class was getting ready for the school Christmas pageant. What song would they be asked to sing?
“We’ve been asked to sing ‘The 12 Days of Christmas!’” smiled Ms. Sunny.
There was a groan from all the kids.
“Not that song,” said Braxton.
“It doesn’t make any sense!” complained Ava. “Four calling birds? What’s a calling bird?”
“What’s a pied piper?” said Chloe. “And why does anyone need 11 of them?”
Ms. Sunny tapped her chin. Her class had a point. The song was very old and didn’t make much sense to anyone today. “Well, what should we do?”
“I know!” Nolan raised his hand. “We should write our own ’12 Days of Christmas!’ with things we’d actually want for Christmas.”
Ms. Sunny clapped her hands. “That’s a great idea!”
Everyone cheered.
The day of the school Christmas pageant arrived. Ms. Sunny’s class couldn’t hide their grins. Everyone in the audience was going to be really surprised.
The class took a deep breath.
“On the 12th Day of Christmas, my true love sent to me…”
“12 days of no school!”
“11 books of stickers!”
“10 packs of trading cards”
“9 days of snow days!”
“8 boxes of cookies!”
“7 days of sleeping!”
“6 comfy PJs!”
“5 STUFFED ANIMALS!”
“4 action figures!”
“3 graphic novels!”
“2 new puppies!”
“And a giant box of chocolate candy!”
Everyone cheered. They loved the new lyrics.
It was the best song of the Christmas season!
Wow! You have you written such clever twist on the 12 Days of Christmas! Well done!
Thank you so much!! ❤️❤️
Hallie! What a cute, clever story! Well done!
This would be for for teachers to do ‘for reals.’ Nicely done.
Light
By Russell Wolff
244 words
It’s almost Hanukkah! Ben and I start our eight-day countdown to eight nights of latkes, gelt, and presents.
But the countdown is a downer this year.
Dad isn’t testing his latke recipe.
Mom hasn’t gotten the gelt – or presents – yet.
Both constantly stare at their phones. (Even more than usual.)
We ask them why.
We talk about there.
Our dreidels’ letters tell a story: nun, gimel, hey, shin. Short for “A great miracle happened there,” the reason for our celebration. Anything but a miracle is happening there now.
We talk about here.
Our candles are even more important this year, when our nights feel darker than usual, when old stories don’t sound as distant.
“Ben and I want to help,” I say.
“This is too big,” Mom says.
But we have to do something. We ditch our countdowner for something more. A count up.
On the first night: We wash away hate sprayed on a neighbor’s home.
Second: We sing. Because joy is also a mitzvah.
Third: We learn. Mom and Dad say to put ourselves in others’ shoes, especially those that don’t seem to fit.
Fourth: We march to bring many voices together.
Fifth: We write, so people don’t forget.
Sixth: We gather new friends with old friends.
Seventh: We reflect. We remember. We ask more questions.
Eighth: We light the most candles, hoping the light travels far.
Hanukkah is done, but we’re not.
It’s all too big. But we have more candles.
Russell, your story moved me very much. There are beautiful thoughts and comfort in every line. Thank you!
Thank you, Mona!
Russell, this is a weighty and powerful story. Thank you SO much for sharing! Here’s to light shining very brightly.
Thanks, Heather!
This is touching.
Thanks, Jill!
The Last Time Santa Ate Sushi
By Abigail Mumford
WC: 241
The last time Santa ate sushi was four days ago. Since then, he’s been too sick to put in a full day’s work.
But Christmas is around the corner.
Three and a half days ago, the reindeer gobbled through the garden because Santa couldn’t prepare their pre-flight feast.
Uh oh, Christmas continues to chug closer.
Three days ago, the elves paused their jobs because they had to wrangle the reindeer. The pile of presents should reach the moon, but only stretched halfway there.
Oh no! Christmas is collapsing!
Two and a half days ago, Santa couldn’t stomach a cup of candy cane cocoa. His ho ho ho ended as he hunched over the toilet.
Help! Christmas is in chaos!
Two days ago, the Snowman Forest started melting due to lack of Christmas cheer. The factory was in danger of flooding.
Umm, should Christmas be canceled!?
Yesterday morning, the reindeer and elves revved through the last-minute baking and decorating. Mrs. Claus led Christmas karaoke and pushed past the present-wrapping quota.
Christmas cheer collected in everyone’s hearts.
Yesterday evening, Santa slurped chicken noodle soup, while Mrs. Claus supervised the sleigh repairs.
Yay! Christmas is coming!
Today, Santa’s belly is more jolly than jelly. His HO HO HO booms out loud. He’s wrapped in his flight suit and ready to be in the sky, as far away as he can get from fish.
Merry Christmas!
(He’ll stick to sugar cookies only from now on.)
Hilarious and so original Abigail! Love how you included the countdown and built tension 🙂
Thank you, Laura! It was such fun to write, but maybe Santa wouldn’t agree. 😜
Haha clever! I don’t eat sushi either, Santa!
Me either, Bri! Thanks for reading!
Of course, chicken noodle soup! I love the line ‘more jolly than jelly.’
Chicken noodle soup is the true savior of Christmas. 🙂
A Cup of Flour, a Dash of Salt, and a Sprinkle of Hope
by Colleen Murphy
WC: 238
“This must change,” said Baker Lou.
“Our town is too divided.
They’ve come from all around the world.
Their viewpoints, many-sided.”
“Throughout the days of Advent,
I’ll lure them to my shoppe,
by baking all their recipes.
On Christmas Day, I’ll stop.
“By then, they’ve met and mingled
with cookies, cakes and rolls
My hope’s they’ve found some common ground
connecting through their souls.”
So, Baker Lou began his plan
with tarts December third,
and Scottish shortbread on the fourth.
Folks tasted; spread the word.
The fifth he baked the Danish Kringles–
apple and pecan.
The sixth he made Biscotti,
then France’s macaron.
He had to add, through Hanukkah,
the jelly donuts too.
As weeks went by and townsfolk heard,
the lines of patrons grew.
The countdown nearly over,
he pushed to stay awake,
then finished off with Africa
and Malva pudding cake.
Although he knew the neighbors came–
the first part of his plan–
he wasn’t sure they took the time
to meet their fellow man.
Because his mission wore him out,
from hairline down to toes,
without one speck of Christmas prep,
he slept, still in his clothes.
Awakened by the smell of pie
and voices from outside,
he found his tree all decked in lights.
His door stood opened wide.
A man said, “Thank you Baker Lou!
You’ve helped our town unite.
We’ve each brought dishes dear to us;
we’d love to share a bite!”
This reminds me of a beautiful classic Christmas story. Thanks for the joyful read. Good luck!
Thank you so much!
Love this, Colleen!
Thank you Marty!
This is a very moving piece. I love how food really can bring people together.
There is so much we can learn from each other!
Wow! We all should be like Baker Lou…such a timely and touching story. Well done!
Thanks Jill. It was definitely a challenge to relate the concept in 250 words or less!
What a sweet story with a great Christmas message!
Thank you Katie!
Such a good message . . . nice rhythm, rhyme, meter . . . well done!
Thank you Jill!
And a generous portion of smiles. Well done, Colleen!
Thanks Bridget! It is fun imagining the final scene.
I love the rhyme and Baker Lou’s mission to unite everyone!
Thank you Julie!
MR. TWEEDY’S CHRISTMAS TREES
By Colleen Fogarty
WC-246
Mr. Tweedy had grown the town’s Christmas trees forever. But he was tired.
“Boys,” he said to the trees, “I’ve decided to sell the farm.”
Noble Fir, the oldest, pleaded, “Mr. Tweedy, who’ll trim our branches? Who’ll cut us down? Who’ll tie us to a car to go home for Christmas?”
Mr. Tweedy said, “I’m not selling until after Christmas. If you want someone to take you home, you have four weeks to spruce up.”
Scotch Pine complained. “I don’t stand a chance; with my crooked trunk and scrawny branches.”
Strong-needled Balsam spoke. “Scotchy, we all stand a chance. But only if we try.”
The weeks passed quickly. The trees shook browned needles off their branches, carefully keeping their prized pinecones. Mr. Tweedy watered them. They grew taller and bushier and oh, how they glowed!
Opening day arrived. Townsfolk parked their cars and strolled through rows of spicy-smelling Christmas trees.
By late afternoon, only the FIVE oldest trees still stood.
Then, Mr. Tweedy tied Douglas Fir to the fire chief’s car. That left FOUR.
The librarian claimed Balsam. That left THREE.
The mayor chose TWO: Frasier and Noble for Town Hall.
Scotchy was the ONE tree left.
Just before closing, a boy in a wheelchair arrived, “Dad, let’s get that tree!” pointing to Scotchy.
“Teddy, it’s crooked and thin.”
Teddy answered, “Yes, just like me.”
Mr. Tweedy tied Scotchy onto Teddy’s car.
“Scotchy”, he said. “You may be last but, you’re the winningest tree of all!”
Awe…I love this.
Such a clever countdown, Colleen. So happy Scotchy found the perfect home. Love the tree names.
I got tickled at the need to ‘spruce up’ line. This is different; I enjoyed this a lot.
Love your holiday countdown, especially how you created this whole world. I felt like I was there and the ending resonated so deeply. Also, love the names of your trees!
What a sweet ending. Love the personified trees and the wordplay. Great job!
Tin, the Stressed-Out Elf
By Joy Dickinson
191 words
Six days to Christmas
the North Pole was busy.
The countdown put Santa’s elves into a tizzy.
The long list of chores
had elf Tin feeling foul.
And Christmas was coming.
Tin must do them
Now
only five days
to get out the door.
Tin’s level of panic
was starting to soar.
But it’s the little children
he’s doing this
Four
days were left.
There were presents to wrap.
And Santa was busy
With kids on his lap.
While wrapping, Tin cried out.
A huge paper cut!
He fell off the shelf,
and he dropped on his
But
there were three days
and still much to do.
Tin stressed himself out
and then all the elves
Two
days to Christmas,
and no time for fun.
Tin placed shiny toys
in a bag, one by
One
day to Christmas
and at the North Pole
the sleigh route was mapped.
They were ready to
Roll
out the sleigh
and then give it a shine.
The reindeer stood round
in a long wobbly
Line
up, said Tin.
All my elf work is done.
Now you take the toys,
and we’ll count down to
fun!
Love the creative way you tied the stanzas together with the common word!
Thank you, Katie!
I am SO impressed with how you did this countdown. Nicely done.
Thank you so much, Jill!
A unique countdown story! Good luck to you!
Thank you, Marty!
Angel Wings Needed
by Lauren N. Simmons
242 words
Living in a toy store was mostly fun. Except at Christmas, then there’s nothing to do but worry.
Five days before Christmas, five baking Barbies with squishy Play-Doh sets were sold. But no one wanted one of me.
Four days before Christmas, four igloo Lego sets were sold. They made me feel the cold, and I longed for a home. And no one wanted one of me.
Three days before Christmas, three sets of kinetic sand that smell of ice cream were sold. I could taste the chocolate as I swallowed a hard lump in my throat. No one wanted one of me.
Two days before Christmas, two bright, neon jewelry making sets were sold. I agree that some of these tie-die things are hypnotizing. But no one wanted one of me.
One day before Christmas, a plush walking puppy was sold. I knew it had a sweet bark, but I’m cute, too. I’m not old. How could no one see? Wait, a little girl eyed me. Be still, I told myself.
“Oh, I love this! Can I have this plushy penguin with angel wings?”
“Why?” her grown up asked.
“Because penguins can’t fly. They need their angel wings. Please, oh please buy this for me.
I’ll not ask for another thing.”
When I was unwrapped on Christmas morning, I found my new home as a pillow on this little girl’s bed. I was so grateful, my stuffed heart swelled with joy.
This was so lyrical and beautiful! I’m so glad he found a home!
Oh, what a precious penguin story!
What a sweet story Lauren. Great work!
I think the wait was worth belonging to the right child.
Don’t Wake Clara: an Eight Night Nutcracker Countdown
by Lauren N. Simmons
158 words
Eight nights before Christmas,
Eight unique snowflakes glide in the air, surrounding a beautiful castle made of sugarplums.
Seven nights before Christmas,
Seven tiny fairies waltz amongst flowers: roses, holly, and chrysanthemums.
Six nights before Christmas,
Six magic flutes, each playing on their own, march in a straight line down the castle street.
Five nights before Christmas,
Five windmills made of Spanish chocolate spin long into the night, making treats for children that are sweet.
Four nights before Christmas,
Four fennec foxes saunter around an Arabian coffee pot.
Three nights before Christmas,
Three Russian bears dance faster and faster, as they jump and squat.
Two nights before Christmas,
Two pandas leap and twirl to a Chinese tea dance.
One night before Christmas,
I am given the most handsome nutcracker prince with whom to prance.
Maybe these are just dreams.
But if so, I don’t want to wake to find that the wonder was less than what it seems.
Love this Nutcracker countdown! Wishing you the best with this!
What a fun countdown take on a classic story!
Such vivid imagery.