Roses are red
Violets are blue
Valentinies rock
And so do YOU!
Woo hoo! The time has come for . . .
The 10th Annual Valentiny Writing Contest
~ for children’s writers ~
The Contest: Since writing for children is all about “big emotion for little people” (I forget who said that, but someone did so I put it in quotes!) and Valentine’s Day is all about emotion, write a Valentine story appropriate for children (children here defined as ages 12 and under) maximum 214 words in which someone feels WORRIED! They can be worried about something or someone, or for something or someone. They can worry about succeeding or failing, making the right impression or the wrong one. They can worry about something as big as love or as small as whether they have enough paper. They can worry about a person, an event, an activity, an animal, an art project, a performance. . . anything you like! Sky’s the limit! Just make sure it is clearly Valentine-centered and that worry is central to your story! Think beyond the obvious! Your story can be poetry or prose, sweet, funny, surprising or anything in between, but it will only count for the contest if it includes someone who is worried (can be the main character but doesn’t have to be) and is 214 words (get it? 2/14 for Valentine’s Day 😊 ) You can go under the word count but not over! (Title is not included in the word count.) If you are so inclined, you are welcome to enter more than one entry – just remember you’ll be competing against yourself 😊 No illustration notes please!
Post your story in the comment section below, between right now this very second and Friday February 14th at 11:59 PM Eastern. There will be no regularly scheduled posts for the duration of the contest (Tuesday Debut or PPBF), so the post and all of your entries will stay up for everyone to enjoy. You are welcome to also post your entries on your own blogs, but you must post them here for the judges! If you have difficulty with the comments, which unfortunately sometimes happens, you may email your entry to me and I’ll post it for you. Please copy and paste your entry into the body of your email and include your name, story title, and word count. No attachments, please!
I do my best to keep up with all the emails and other admin associated with running the contest, but I appreciate your patience if I don’t get things up right away. I promise I’m working on it! 😊 💕
The Judging: over the following days, my lovely assistants and I will narrow down the entrants to around 12 top choices depending on number and quality of entries which will be posted here and voted on for a winner as soon as we can get them up. The winners and Honorable Mentions will be announced a few days after the vote. (I’m not even going to try to hazard a guess on exact dates!)
Judging criteria will include:
- Kid-appeal/Kid-friendliness – remember, this is a story for kids!
- Creativity in using worry, and success in making us feel the worry! Worry must be central to the story line, not just mentioned briefly in passing in a story about something else entirely.
- Valentine’s Day appropriateness – this is a VALENTINE story and Valentine’s Day must be central to it!
- Quality of story – we will look for basic story elements and a true story arc
- Quality of writing – use and flow of language, correctness of mechanics, excellence of rhyme and meter if you use it, PROOFREADING!
- Originality – surprise us with something new and different! 😊
- How well you followed the Submission Guidelines – agents and editors expect professionalism. This is a chance to practice making sure you read and follow specified guidelines.
The Prizes: So many amazing prizes from such generous kidlit folks! Have a good look – it will motivate you to write your entry!
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Lydia Lukidis, accomplished author of UP, UP HIGH: The Secret Poetry of Earth’s Atmosphere (Capstone Editions, January 1, 2025), DEEP, DEEP DOWN: The Secret Underwater Poetry of the Mariana Trench (Capstone Editions, Augist 1, 2024), DANCING THROUGH SPACE: Dr. Mae Jemison Soars To New Heights (Albert Whitman, April 4, 2024, ), NO BEARS ALLOWED (Blue Whale Press, July 1, 2019) as well as more than 40 other titles for the trade and educational market, with GROUCHO THE GROUGHY GROUNDHOG: Pancake Problems (book 1) (Andrews McMeel Publishing, July 15, 2025) coming soon!
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Penny Parker Klostermann, talented author of 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? – as well as THERE WAS AN OLD DRAGON WHO SWALLOWED A KNIGHT (Random House 2015) and A COOKED-UP FAIRY TALE (Random House 2017) and the forthcoming SPIDER LADY: Nan Songer and Her Arachnid WWII Army (Astra/Calkins Creek 2025)
⭐️ Signed Copy of WRITE HERE, WRITE NOW! PLUS A 30 Minute Ask Me Anything with Rebecca Gardyn Levington, author of BRAINSTORM! (Sleeping Bear Press, 2022), WHATEVER COMES TOMORROW (Barefoot Books, Mar 7, 2023), I WILL ALWAYS BE…(HarperCollins, 4/15/25 – Available for Pre-Order Now), AFIKOMAN, WHERE’D YOU GO? A Passover Hide-And-Seek Adventure (Penguin/Rocky Pond, Spring 2024), LITTLE DREIDEL LEARNS TO SPIN (Scholastic, 9/3/24), WRITE HERE, WRITE NOW! (Capstone, 1/1/25 – Available for Pre-Order Now), FINDING FORGIVENESS (Macmillan/FSG, 8/5/25), SOME DAYS I’M THE WIND (Barefoot Books, Fall 2025), and LOOKING FOR LIGHT: A Shabbat Story (Macmillan/FSG, Fall 2026)
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique (no rhyme or verse, up to 1000 words) OR a Chapter Book Manuscript Critique (up to 5000 words) from Kizzie Hutcheson Roberts. Kizzi is the indie author of THE ELVES GO MARCHING (Elemental Ink, December 1, 2022), THE EGGS GO ROLLING (Learning Spark, February 16, 2023), and HARPER AND THE RAPTOR RESCUE (chapter book) (Learning Spark Educational Publishing, June 27, 2023)
⭐️ 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!
⭐️ A Picture Book Manuscript Critique (rhyming or non-rhyming) from Nancy Derey Riley, author/illustrator of CURIOSITY’S DISCOVERY (Rolling Prairie Publishing LLC, November 10, 2020), BUTTERFLY INN (Rolling Prairie Publishing LLC, May 25, 2022), YETI IN THE SERENGETI (Rolling Prairie Publishing LLC, May 30, 2023), and a new book due out next spring that is still hush-hush 😊
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique (fiction) OR 30 Minute Ask Me Anything – winner’s choice! – from Karyn Friedman-Everham, author of OTTER OUGHTA KNOW (Orchard Books, April 2, 2024)
⭐️ Picture Book Manuscript Critique or Ask Me Anything Email Chat from Donna Martin, creator of Storycatcher Publishing, and first rate author of picture books THE STORY CATCHER, THE GREAT POTATO RACE, HAILEY’S HATS, A BUMP IN THE NIGHT and A BARNYARD CHRISTMAS, as well as her middle-grade HISTORY’S MYSTERIES, a YA – LUNADOR, and others!
⭐️ 2 Fantastic Picture Books! A signed copy of CLOUDS IN SPACE: Nebulae, Stardust and Us by Teresa Robeson (MIT Kids Press, August 20, 2024) AND a copy of WHO’S WRITING THIS STORY?! (Creston Books, May 7, 2024) by Robin Newman!
⭐️ A 30 Minute Zoom Ask Me Anything with Cindy Williams Schrauben, author of THIS COULD BE YOU: Be Brave! Be True! Believe! Be You! (Cardinal Rule Press, April 1, 2022) and the forthcoming HANK’S CHANGE OF HEART (The Little Press, November 4, 2025)
⭐️ A Signed Copy of Jilanne Hoffman’s gorgeous A RIVER OF DUST: The Life-Giving Link Between North Africa and the Amazon OR A 30-minute Zoom Ask Me Anything (Winner’s Choice) from Jilanne Hoffman, talented 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) as well as THE OCEAN’S HEART forthcoming from Lerner in Spring 2026!
⭐️ A “Love Bundle” Consisting of a Signed Copy of LOVE WILL TURN YOU AROUND AND a Heart Pillow from the lovely and talented Mary Munson!!!
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
Now! Take heart and post your entries without a smidgeon of worry!
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 Valentiny Contest begin!
Happy Writing and Happy Valentines Day! 🩷💕🩷💕🩷
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. Hurting Hearts – Jude Westerfield
2. Punctured Romance – Donna Kurtz
3. Great-Grandma, Great Valentine’s-Day! – Donna Kurtz
4. A Happy Surprise! – Donna Kurtz
5. Love Comes In Waves – Katie Schwartz
6. A Safe Space For Valentines – Lauren N. Simmons
7. Humpty Dumpty’s Eggs-Cellent Valentine’s Day – Michelle S. Kennedy
8. An Icy Romance – Paul Kurtz
9. Big Party, Big Trouble! – Paul Kurtz
10. No Flowers? No Problem! – Paul Kurtz
11. Andy The Alpaca – S.J. Little
12. The Strawberry Cowboy – Emma Applegarth
13. Chicken’s Valentine – Poupette Smith
14. Smelly Valentines – Bethany Brodsky
15. Valentine’s Day For Della – Stephanie Mena
16. The Valentine Nuzzle – Danielle Render Turmaud, PhD
17. Creepy & Sweet – Heather Kinser
18. A Valentine For A Fish – Elizabeth Meyer zu Heringdorf
19. Elbow To Elbow – Bridget Magee
20. Art As Big As My Heart – Kiran Vazir Nair
21. Luna’s Valentine Surprise – Ian Rodrigues
22. But Roses Aren’t Red – Jessica Russo
23. What’s In The Box? – Jodie Houghton
24. Millicent Makes A Move – Jesse Anna Bornemann
25. Rumble Tumble Bumblebee – Lisa Carmody Doiron
26. Nuts About Each Other – Cathy Stenquist
27. Valentines Crafternoon – Rebecca Tronrud
28. Granny, My Valentine – Claire Lincoln-Gordon
29. I Dream In Red And White – Margaret Zotkiewicz
30. The Valentine’s Day Feast – Deborah Foster
31. Cupcakes And Slobbery Kisses – Sonja McGiboney
32. A Little Courage – Jany Campana
33.
34. Valentine’s Day Rocks – Mona Voelkel
35. A Pine Woods Valentine – Kelly Clasen
36. Blue Valentine – Kari Liska
37. No Worries, Wendi! – Jen Subra
38. Walter Worries – Elizabeth Volkmann
39. From A To V: A Valentine Story – P.J. Purtee
40. The Planets’ Party – Emily Roberts
41. Invisible Sheera – Barbara Senenman
42. Teddy Be Mine – Samantha Howard-Els
43. Lizzy In A Tizzy – Susan Elizabeth Schipper
44. Go Away, Worry Bird! – Rose Cappelli
45. Beatrice And The Worst Valentine’s Day – Lynne Marie
46. Brave On The Bus – Deborah Holt Williams
47. Wally Isn’t Worried – Melissa Johnston Miles
48. Valentines From Space – Kristin Falleroni
49. The Valentine Rock Hunt – Eleanor A. Peterson
50. A Sunny Valentine – Nicole Loos Miller
51. Plop! – Cari Chamberlain
52. Valentiny Search – Elizabeth Thoms Charles
53. Glow – Amanda Blaylock
54. Revolting Chocolates – Stephanie Flom
55. The Perfect Song – Emmie R. Werner
56. With Love, Evangelina-Mae – Kendra Lusty
57. Heart Words – Marilyn Wolpin
58. Valentine For My Family – Kara Williams
59. Don’t Worry About The Flurry – Kate DiMaio
60. Cupid Needs Help – Jamie Bills
61. Swamp Fever – Kathleen Jacobs
62. The Great Crushtastrophe – Emy McCarthy
63. Love Saves The Day – Corine Timmer
64. My New, Furry Love – Jenn Gaulding
65. Groundhog Love – Sherry Dubis
66. First Love – Kelly Kates
67. The Kaleidoscope – Seth Standley Mueller
68. A Love Like Bob’s – Jacinta Patterson
69. A Wish And A Worry – Julie Lerczak
70. My Valentine’s Day Worries – Betsy Bennett
71. V-Day D-Day – Laura Wippell
72. Hush Now Phoebe – Laura Rice Martinez
73. Que Sera, Sera, My Sweet – Shuba Mohan
74. An Octopus Apology – Susan Summers
75. The Mystery Gift Returns – Susan Summers
76. Phyllis’s Quivery-Quaking Valentine – Karen Opp
77. Will She Be Mine? – Marta Cutler
78. Tyler – Sue Ko
79. Happy Friends Day – Trine Grillo
80. The Perfect Valentine Gift – Priyanka Bertrabet
81. Chicken Little’s Valentine’s – Katie Schwartz
82. That’s What Squirrels Are For – Lori Dubbin
83. Secret, Secret Valentine – Michael Kokozos
84. First Love – Jen Summers
85. Valentine’s Day Road Trip – Elyse Trevers
86. One In A Million – Ellen Akemi Crosby
87. Anna Beaver And The Shining Heart – Elise Derstine
88. The Blank Heart – Jill Lambert
89. A Valentine’s Day Surprise – Catherine Rose
90. A Pebble For Penny – J. Buchet
91. Bonnie’s Valentines – Lizzie Dunn
92. Mandy’s Valentines – Una Belle Townsend
93. The Valentine’s Day Flu – Elizabeth Muster
94. Caty The Cactus – Katie Gigliotti
95. A Pirate’s Love – Andi Chitty
96. Valentimes Day – Lori Sheroan
97. A Valentine Bear – Penelope McNally
98. Will The Worrier – Marty Findley
99. Everyone Deserves A Valentine – Lucia Lemieux
100. The Last Linguini – Rella B Books
101. Glitter, Glitz, and Valentine Bits – Gabriella Keys
102. Jack’s Valentine Yarn – Jessica Iwanski
103. Worried Winds – Gabriella Keys?
104. Lil’ Wavey, The Worrier – Judy Hughes
105. Broken Hearts – Lisa Billa
106. Firefly Dance – Katie Dubay
107. Happy Valentine’s Day, Worry Wart – Sharon McCarthy
108. Who Will Be Grandma’s Valentine? – Lauri C. Meyers
109. Picture Perfect – Helen Lysicatos
110. A Paw-sitively Perfect Valentine’s Day – Tiffany Hanson
111. Love At Last – Teresa Speranza Vargas
112. Shakesbear Presents: Honey and Berry – Dawn Hauptner
113. A Valentine From For Chloe – Caitlin T. D. Robinson
114. What Color Is Love? – Marcia Dalphin Williams
115. First Day Valentine – Joanne Szeto
116. Love Gone Wild – Bri Lawyer
117. Who Stole Valentine’s Day? – Debbie Neuenschwander
118. A Valentine For Porcupine – Susan Corry
119. The Otter Valentine – Susan Burdorf
120. The Valentine Mouse – Anne Catliff
121. Adaline’s Valentine Box – Jessica Evans
122. Healing Hearts – Sarah (Sezza) Hetu
123. Not So Perfect Valentines – Rebekah Hoeft
124. Valentine’s Rules – Rachel Schiller
125. Moon-eyed – Hannah Gordon
126. Allergic To Love – RFREMMER
127. Cards Of Concern – Mike Flowers
128. A Very Junky Valentine – Dominic Plavny
129. V Is For Vulture, NOT Valentine – Rebekah Reaves
130. It Takes All Kinds – Webb Smith
131. Made With Love – Webb Smith
132. Sweet Teeth – Amber A. Novak
133. A Worrisome Mission – Nancy Ferguson
134. Please Make It Home – editingbydanielle
135. A Valentine For All – Jamie Kravetz
136. Don’t Worry About The Wrong Things – Linda Staszak
137. The Night Guard, A Sweet Tooth, and Love’s Unbreakable Bond – Amy Martinez
138. Heartfelt – S. J. Barratt
139. Furry Worries In Wood’s Hollow – Samantha Cora
140. Untitled – aliakirsch123
141. From The Heart – Morna Gersho
142. A Little Fairy Dust Always Helps – Linda Staszak
143. Clarissa Countpolis – Ana Kelly
144. The Missing Teddy Bear – RJCLARKEN
145. Nose Need To Worry – Samantha Howard-Els
146. Sweet Message Dilemma – Joan Leotta
147. Worried – Greg Beatty
148. Skeptical V-Day – Isabel Cruz Rodriguez
149. Valentines For Everyone – Jamie Kravetz
150. The Almost-Perfect Valentine – Susan Jakubowski
151. Dear Valentine’s Day – Liz Godfrey
152. Just Cute Won’t Do – Erin Lyons
153. Just Enough – Jessica Evans
154. Teddy’s Gift Of Art – Kimberly Zhuo
155. The Perfect Valentine Card – Deborah Dolan Hunt
156. Recipe For The Perfect Valentine – Anne Lipton
157. A Heart For Helena – KM Jesson
158.
159. I Am Not Good At Art And Crafts – Maritere Bellas
160. Vovo’s Valentine – Kayla Martinez
161. Love, Cade – Briana Caballero
162. Cupie – M. A. Caballero
163. The Day After St. Valentine’s – Alice Bianchi-Clarke
164. The Groundhog And The Airpig – Angela Martinelli
165. Cupid Versus Baby New Year – Susan Gleeson
166. Pennygirl’s In Love – Judy McGee
167. Sir Snacks-a-Lot Saves The Day – Amanda Fletcher
168. Lizzy-Loo McBride’s Valentine’s Dance Disaster – ere
169. Ramona’s Cookies – Carmen Castillo Gilbert, PhD
170. Unsweetened – Russell Wolff
171. Valentruck – Sarah Meade
172. Be Mine, Twine! – Sarah Meade
173. Found Acceptance – Laura Proven Croyle
174. I Can’t Read My Valentine – Alicia Meyers
175. Haiku For Two – Sharon Korzelius
176. Sheba’s Sweet Valentine – Barbara Lerman-Golomb
177. Sometimes We Argue – Elizabeth Bryer
178. A Fruitful Valentine’s Day – Shaunessy Sinnett
179. Just An Inkling, Valentine – Rainy Ostrom
180. Clever Caramel – Janelle Mikulas
181. Veer’s Worry-ful Valentine – Kay B Author
182. Jubilee’s Chiclickity Catastrophe – Julia Ruschmann
183. Cupid’s Conundrum – Katia Mykytiuk
184. Valentine Cuddle-fish? – Abby Kass
185. Love Squad – Maria Piñero Pope
186. Valentine Mix-Up – Christina Shawn
187. Cupid’s Worry – Bonnie Kloster
188. Bump, Bump, Vee – Vanessa Ireson
189. Sweaty Letty – Susan Hamlin
190. The Stinkiest Valentine’s Day – Ella English
191. Lily’s Valentine Fear – Amanda McIntyre
192. Cupid’s Big Day – Marty Bellis
193. Have A Heart – Cindy Rivka Marshall
194. Truffle Woes – Kate Chabarek
195. The Password To My Heart – Lauren Wu
196. Nuts! – Daniella Kaufman
197. Phishing For Valwntines – Alea Garbagnati
198. Lunchtime Worries – Linda Hofke
199. Zoo Love – Jennifer Tarr
200. Cupid Makes A Mark – Cindy Greene
201. Tea And Chocolate? – Tarja Helena Nevala
202. The Sweetest Friend Chip – Cheryl Simon
203. Love, Lily Lou – Sally Macaluso
204. Gravitational Crush – Dana Dillaman
205. Miss Muffet’s Sweet Treats – Shaunessy Sinnett
206. Val The Mail Snail – Griffin Taylor
207. The Memory Valentine – Jennifer Rathe
208. Too Many Valentines? – Maya Elson
209. Special Delivery – Angela Steffen
210. What About Waffles – Jared Bryer
211. Date Night – Rathi Munukur
212. Jenna’s Story – Dianne Borowski
Susanna Leonard Hill 
Valentines From Space
By Kristin Falleroni
181 Words
Ring! Ring! Ring!
“Outer Space Postal Service.
Who is on the line?”
“It’s me, Lars from Mars
Calling about my valentine!
It has not yet been delivered.
I sent it down to Earth last week.
I’m worried that it may be lost.
Could you please take a peek?“
“Oh yes, Lars I’ve found it!
Looks like it just went past the moon.
That’s more than halfway to Earth
It should be there very soon.”
“Wow! That is such great news.
Thanks so much, my friend.
May I please ask you a question
Before our call comes to an end?
Do you have a valentine
Somewhere out in space?”
“Of course I do, she’s top notch,
Number one, first place!
She’s smart, brave, and beautiful.
Totally the bomb,
And I’m proud to tell you
She is also my Mom!”
“What a coincidence?!
My Mom is my valentine too!
Thanks again for your help.
It‘s been nice talking with you.”
Lars hung up the phone and smiled,
No need for any more drama.
His valentine was safely
On it’s way to his Mama!
Funny and cute. Phew, a worry for naught!
Thank you so much!
Fun story! I love the setting.
Thank you very much!
So cute! Loved the outer space theme❣️
The Valentine Rock Hunt
by Eleanor A. Peterson
Word count: 184 words
https://eleanorannpeterson.com/my-entry-for-susanna-hills-valentiny-contest/
After school, Tory and friends gathered near the riverbank to collect heart-shaped rocks for Valentine’s Day.
Everyone scattered along the bank.
“Let’s hurry before it gets dark,” said Herbert.
Tory paced up and down the bank, overturning logs, searching under shrubs, hoping to find the perfect hearts.
She hummed to herself but stopped when Sasha hollered. “Look, Tory, I only need three more.”
Tory’s heart sank.
She’d never find twelve in time for the big exchange.
Tory looked over her shoulder. Her friends had found a handful.
She only found two heart-shaped rocks she liked.
Just as the sun dipped low, Tory discovered something.
A bottle snuggly stuck between two boulders.
She reached for it, slipping and sliding on the slimy rocky shoreline.
“Hurry! It’s late,” said Sasha.
“Coming,” hollered Tory.
She rubbed the bottle clean.
Tory twisted and pulled the cork.
Inside were tiny heart-shaped glass pebbles and a note.
She delicately pulled it out.
It read, “True friends are like diamonds. I am so lucky to have you. Happy Valentine’s Day! H.H.”
Tory’s heart overflowed with joy.
The best Valentine’s Day ever.
This entry rocks! 😉 Super sweet, Eleanor!
Thanks Laura. You’re super.
I found your entry. Such a great twist Eleanor. Friends are special.
Dear Eleanor, I love your entire story! The ending, with the delicate heart-shaped glass pebbles was especially visual, surprising, and beautiful.
Wow! Thanks Mona. Words of encouragement are always welcome. 🙂
Thank you, Mona for reading and commenting.
My daughter would love to do such a hunt on valentine’s day! Love this story.
Thank you Kiran.
True friends are like diamonds! Love it!
Thanks for reading, Melissa. 🙂
A SUNNY VALENTINE
By Nicole Loos Miller
(209 words)
When the sun wakes up,
I put on my most colorful dress with sparkly silver hearts
It’s Valentine’s Day
And I am a rainbow!
This year will be the best:
Brownies with sprinkles!
Paper hearts with glitter!
And dancing (LOTS of dancing)!
“TA DA!!” I sing
Twirling into the living room
But
Instead of mom and dad
Waiting
To scoop me up in snuggles…
Grandpa yawns from the couch
“Hello, sunshine!”
(Only, I don’t feel like a sunshine anymore)
“Your mom went into labor early.
You’re getting a brother for Valentine’s Day!”
Oh.
I think I’m a cloud filled with rain.
Lots and lots of rain.
Grandpa wraps me in a hug that smells like butterscotch.
“Help me make welcome home brownies?”
Even though my sky is cloudy,
I whisper: “with heart sprinkles?”
“Of course.”
Grandpa gets out glitter while the brownies bake.
“Use as much as you want!”
“No glitter limit?”
“Sparkle away, sunshine!”
Grandpa’s grin
Finds a tiny smile in me, too
Grandpa plays music
And we dance and dance
It’s past bedtime when
“Surprise, lovebug!
Meet your baby brother!”
Oh. My. Goodness!!!!!!!!!
Suddenly I am shooting stars
Of exploding love!
(Which I didn’t know was possible
But maybe anything is
On a day filled with love)
Awww, did you just have a little one too?
My story was also about a new baby and the adjustments at the home.
If this is autobiographical, congratulations!
Anyone would brighten at “no glitter limit.”
Lovely, Nicole. I could feel her excitement and then….but gramps did a good job cheering her up.
LOVE THIS, Nicole. My favorite part might be “No glitter limit?” This is beautiful. My brother was born on February 12 when I was ten, so I related to your MC so much!!
So many great lines. My favorite: shooting stars.
So many great lines! ❤️
Plop!
By: Cari Chamberlain
Word count: 214
Leo’s pockets are always full, full, full.
Half a crayon, cookie crumbs, his coat’s stray red button. He tries to tuck his worries in too, but: too many worries! They weigh down his heart instead.
Today– today! – he makes room in his pocket for his new worry stone.
He plops it inside and: rub, rub, rub.
His hand gives the stone a hug.
Squeeze, squeeze, squeeze.
Dad says, “Hold it when you’re worried. You’re bigger than your worry stone. You’re bigger than your worries!”
Today is Valentine’s Day and Leo’s heart is full, full, full. So many worries.
What if no one likes my cards?
What if I spelled V-a-l-e-n-t-i-n-e wrong?
What if no one made me one?
What if, what if, what if?
Leo’s chest feels heavy. His heart thumps, trying to push free.
Rub, rub.
Squeeze, squeeze.
Leo takes one step. Rub. Then another. Squeeze. He clutches his cards tight and then one by one:
Drop. Drop. Drop.
Rub.
Squeeze.
Then, plop! a card lands in his basket. Plop! another. Plop, plop!
Leo’s pockets are always full, full, full. Today his Valentine’s basket is, too.
His heart thumps, but with every plop it feels lighter. Rub.
“Maybe it’s not just me who’s bigger than my worries.”
Squeeze.
“Maybe – maybe! – love is, too.”
I’m so happy Leo has a worry stone to help him get through the initial start of the day ❤
I hadn’t heard of them before, but what a great talisman.
Oh, I am glad to introduce you to worry stones! We use them a lot in my little family. Even better if they are heart-shaped 🙂
My gosh this takes me back to second grade! I had a worry stone and your description of the worries is sooooo relatable and perfectly captured! The resolution is adorable! So so strong!
Thank you! It’s funny I remember second grade Valentine’s Day too…. 🙂
I agree…I started to remember my own Valentine’s worries by reading your lovely story. I love Leo!
Worry stones are so helpful!
I agree!
EEEPS this is so perfect, Cari!!! Excellent use of worry in a Valentine’s prompt (so hard to do!) and just a sweet, relatable, validating story. Rooting for this one and hope to see it in the finals! 🙂
Thank you Jessica!
This is such a beautifully told, kid-friendly Valentine’s Day story of how a worried kid survives the day with the help of his worry stone! The last three lines especially touched my heart. Fantastic job, Cari!
Thank you Mona! I loved your take on the prompt. And we both used rocks in different ways!
This is adorable! I love the repetition of the “rub” and “squeeze.” Definitely evokes that feeling of anxiety. The comparison between his full pockets and his basket made me smile. ❤
Thank you Laura… I’m so glad the comparison between the pockets and the basket came through 🙂
I certainly felt Leo’s worry.
Love the title, the opening description of what’s in Leo’s pocket, and of course . . . the story!
Thank you Jill!
This is a thoughtful story from the title, through the middle and especially the last three lines.
Thank you!
Great use of the “worry” theme! I love the title as well!
Valentiny Search
by Elizabeth Thoms Charles
Word count: 126
Cherub hopped, scratched and croaked.
Cherub, a baby raven, worried, “What if I can’t find anything red, pink or shiny?”
Cherub looked up, down and all around.
Cupid said, “What. Have you found no baubles? I’ve already shot 25 love arrows. Hurry up!”
Cherub flapped near and far.
Cupid shot another arrow.
Cherub gazed over and under.
Cupid ate a chocolate.
Cherub fretted and then saw a glint, a glimmer.
Cherub dove into the dumpster and . . . found oodles of red and pink ribbons.
Cupid danced a jig.
Cherub wove the ribbons in and out of the thatch roof, hopping here and there.
A red and pink ribbon Valentiny shone against the roof.
“Nice,” Cupid said. “Have a chocolate.”
“Happy Valentine’s Day,” Cherub said.
This story is so much fun! I LOVE ravens and your style of writing is so perfect for this word count! Well done!
Thank you Amanda.
So cute.
I’ve already shot 25 love arrows . . . hahaha.
The imagery of the thatch roof . . . awe.
Thank you Jill. So glad you noted the humor.
Love the baby raven, named Cherub, looking for a shiny Valentine. . . so sweet!
Thank you Kelly.
Glow
By: Amanda Blaylock
WC: 212
Fiona the firefly stood at the door
feeling a dread that she couldn’t ignore.
This night was important. The biggest of all!
The night of the Big Buggy Valentine Ball!
It wasn’t the party that made her hands shake.
Not music or noises that made her head ache.
The reason her stomach was twisted in fear
was the firefly glow they performed every year.
A buggy tradition, she knew it by heart,
but this was the first time she had her own part.
The music would play, and the lights would go out.
Then the fireflies all would go dancing about.
She knew every movement, she had it just right.
The only big problem? Her awful stage fright!
Fiona was shaking but pushed through the door.
Inside her two friends scurried up from the floor.
Molly the Moth wrapped her tight in a hug.
“You got this! Don’t worry!” chirped cheery June Bug.
The lights all went low and she buzzed to her place
with the feeling of eyes locking onto her face.
Then out in the crowd, she saw something bright.
It was Molly and June and they held up a light.
Fiona’s best friends were now all she could see
and that gave her courage to set her glow free.
How much fun! I love this insect Valentine poem! So well done – really heart warming!
Thank you so much!
Aw this is so cute
Thank you!
This is so sweet and your last line is *chef’s kiss*
Aw! Thank you for saying so! I wrote it in honor of my two best friends.
Wow! What a great story, and in rhyme too! This was so fun to read and I can imagine kids loving it!
So nice of you to say! Thank you!
such a sweet story. well done!
Thank you very much!
SO sweet! I loved this ❤
I loved Fiona’s character! Such a lovely, sweet original story.
Precious!
Such a fun story.
Beautiful rhyme and story with fun phrases to read like Big Buggy Valentine Ball.
Amanda, I love the bugs celebrating Valentine’s Day.
Very nice tale! I like the rhyme. Good luck!
REVOLTING CHOCOLATES
By Stephanie Flom
WC: 212
“Everyone, listen up! Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day!”
The chocolates shivered in their heart-shaped box.
That meant one thing, they would be–
PICKED,
POKED,
and
eventually…
EATEN!
“Did you hear what happened to Buttercream last year?” wailed Fudge, “It was repulsive.”
“We’re not going down without a fight,” commanded Toffee.
The chocolates huddled up and devised a plan.
Cherry Cream would deliver a spicy surprise.
Coconut Nougat would be chunky instead of creamy.
And everyone’s favorite, Caramel, would be stuffed with–
a brussel sprout.
They prepared each chocolate for their revolting rebellion.
At last, they steadied for the attack.
Suddenly, they were–
LIFTED
and
SHIFTED.
“It’s time,” whispered Toffee.
A blinding light–
a giant hand.
Chocolate Truffle was plucked from his paper and–
CHOMP!
YUCK!
PTOOEY!
Raspberry Souffle was ransacked from her spot.
One taste made the attacker retch.
“BLAH!”
Toffee was taken and delivered a crushing chomp.
But Toffee was one tough candy.
“OUCH, my teeth!”
Then, darkness and–
THUD.
Toffee peeked out.
“We’re safe!” he shouted, “We’ve reached the trash!”
Together they had prevailed.
The tale of the Revolting Chocolates was spread far and wide, whispered about at supermarkets across the globe.
Their triumph became the stuff of legends and a warning to all–
THE CHOCOLATES ARE BAD, BUY FLOWERS INSTEAD!
I’ll be grinning about this all day. Super fun idea.
Thank you, Kendra!
A brussel sprout! This was so clever. I loved it!
thank you hehe!
This is hilarious!
Thank you!!
Thank you! It was a fun one to write 🙂
My story is about a chocolate box, too! Love your take and how ours are so different.
Thank you! I’ll have to go check yours out now 🙂
I love this, Stephanie! It’s so fun! Kids will definitely enjoy this. ~Lauren
thank you, friend! Loved yours too 🙂
So funny!
thank you! 🙂
This is so much fun- a great box of characters!
Thank you, Lisa!
Thank you Lisa!
I’m glad this is merely fiction — the candy is my favorite gift! Love the humor here, well done!
Same! Thank you Amanda!
Adorable concept! Obsessed with the wordplay… “revolting” indeed!
Thank you Laura!!
So fun!
Thanks Jill!
THE PERFECT SONG
Emmie R Werner
Word Count – 173
The second grade Valentine recital was three days away.
It had been circled on the calendar for two weeks.
Plunk, plunk, plunk, “I need the perfect Valentine song,” Valarie fretted.
Valarie had a wastepaper basket of discarded songs.
One song was too soft, another too loud.
One too short and one too long.
Was there even a Valentine song she could play?
Plunk, plunk, plunk.
This song was too sad, and that one too silly.
The last song was way too mushy!
Valarie was beginning to panic, the program was tomorrow.
Plunk, plunk, plunk, Valarie prayed for inspiration.
Running her fingers up and down the keys only made her more nervous.
Finally, Valarie took a deep breath, closed her eyes and slowly, slowly Valarie’s fingers glided over the keys and a song emerged.
Perfect Valarie sighed.
Valarie’s heart was pounding as she waited her turn, “our next pianist is Valarie.”
Valarie sat, took a deep breath, and began playing.
The music filled the auditorium…the best Valentine song, JESUS LOVES ME THIS I KNOW.
Lovely story! Good luck!
Love this!
I was wanting to hear her song . . . and I know that one!
❤️Sent from my iPad
With Love, Evangelina-Mae
by Kendra Lusty
209 words
She’s practiced hard. “Today’s the day!” exclaims Evangelina-Mae
She dumps the box, a bright display of Valentines that need to say:
With love, Evangelina-Mae
But wait! Why are these cards so small? 3 inches wide, 2 inches tall!
That doesn’t leave much room to scrawl a name like hers, no not at all.
She starts to worry, starts to fret. Her purple pen slips in her sweat.
One perfect E (a little wet), a too-big V sets in regret.
N-G slants up. Should she restart? Her mom says, “use your nickname.” (smart!)
But Evie’s got a lot of heart. She’ll write her whole name, not just part.
She’ll write: Evangelina-Mae
Like that, her brother Al is done, while she still toils through number one.
L, I and N are overrun by A dash M. Please help, someone!
Is this incomprehensible? Handwriting reprehensible?
The A is indispensable, so writing slow seems sensible.
Evangelina-Mae cannot see anywhere an open spot
for one more letter left to jot. There! Her last E is just a dot.
It’s done:
LIN
E AN A E!
V GE- MA
Success! A perfect Valentine shows off her name and lets it shine,
but pride turns quickly to resign—she still has 30 more to sign.
Very cute story! good luck!
Thanks! 💛
Oh this is so real! Those cards are SO tiny! I felt this one.
Right? I have to stop myself from helping. 💛
Ha! Your story had me giggling the whole read! You should absolutely query this story!
Wow thanks for the encouragement! 💛
I remember my kids fretting about fitting their names on the cards. well done!
Right? Every year 😂
What a perfect story to capture such big feelings about such a small moment in time (well, at least for Al)! Love it!!
Aww Thanks! 💛
This is adorable, Kendra! I can just see Evangelina-Mae working so hard! Super cute!
Thanks! 💛
You had me at the title. Love it!
Thank you! 💛
This story is delightful. I love her name too!
Aww thanks! 💛
HEART WORDS
By Marilyn Wolpin
WC: 200
I’ll need:
Red paper,
Scissors,
Markers,
Paints,
And glue.
It’s going to be perfect.
“Always be prepared,” she says.
It will be
Radiant red,
A heart just right,
White lace and flower balloons.
Fold…
Cut…
Snip…
Trim…
OH NOOOO!
It’s a broken heart.
“We learn from our mistakes,” she says.
Wad!
Toss!
Try again.
Fold…
Cut…
Snip…
Trim…
Trace…
Paste.
Perfect!
But what words will I write?
She says, “You can do hard things.”
I know!
Trace…
Paint…
Swish…
Splot!
OOPS!
Is that how you spell “speshul”?
Wad!
Toss!
Try again.
Fold…
Cut…
Trim…
Trace…
Place lace…
She always reminds me, “Take a deep breath.”
Grip pen…
Careful…
Slowly…
Almost…
DONE!
Will she love it?
She must, because
It’s radiant red,
A heart just right,
White lace and flower balloons.
So many cards on her desk…
Will she even see mine?
My heart beats in my ears.
She has it!
She’s reading!
I…
cannot…
breathe!
She looks at me
with a smile so big!
And wipes away a tear.
Now she knows because of
My radiant red,
A heart just right,
White lace and flower balloons:
“I’m glad you are my teacher, love, Corey.”
My heart is light as air.
Those Valentines are an awful lot of work! Well done making us feel all that effort… and love!
So
Well
Done!
Thank you!
Lovely. I enjoyed the pacing and sweet ending.
Thank you!
Hi Marilyn. This is great. It’s interesting that we both chose to write about a kid wanting their Valentine to be perfect. Lots of worry in that. Good luck.
Valentine For My Family
by Kara Williams
94 Words
Instructions: Craft a Valentine for someone special.
Use as many colors as you want to help express how you feel.
What if Mommy never gets better?
Feels Dark Purple.
Only a couple more weeks, they say.
Need Blue.
Resting and healing instead of playing with me — makes me mad!
I’ll add Red.
Recovered enough to hold and feed baby sister.
Now Green.
Yellow’s next — happy for my growing family.
To finish it off — four pink hearts, dash of sunny orange, sprinkle of grey and all done!
My Valentine has all the colors of love.
This is so creative and sweet. A rainbow of love ❤
Thank you 🧡
cute!
Thank you!
The ending you wrote is perfect! So wonderful! Great structure as well! It’s like looking at thoughts. Well done!
Wouldn’t have gotten there without your feedback! Thank you, critique buddy!
Wow, love the different layers in this–the acrostic and color symbolism. Beautiful.
Thank you, Laura 💗
I was so glad to see mom improve!
Beautiful.
The structure is so effective and moving. Well done!!
Kara, what a sweet story.
Don’t Worry about the Flurry
By: Kate DeMaio
WC: 107
Pre-school is closed on account of the storm.
We do hope our students stay home and stay warm.
We want to assure you— though the snow is quite weird,
The plows won’t have trouble to get it all cleared.
Please don’t be alarmed as you peer out your window,
The cause may be temperatures well below zero.
It could be reflections. A trick of the mind.
News channels suggest we’re all color-blind.
Scientists say, “Check the date on the calendar.”
The reason the snow isn’t white, gray or lavender,
The Earth can’t write cards or send chocolate your way,
But snow can be PINK this Valentine’s Day!
Pink snow! Love!
How beautiful that would be!
That would take away some of this chill!
A fantastic visual!
Creative! What a fun image of pink snow.
CUPID NEEDS HELP
by Jamie Bills
214 Words
326 new love requests? Yikes! Even magical flying babies have their limits. As Cupid dropped the requests on top of his growing pile, Cupid realized he needed help.
The next day, 16 hopeful applicants arrived. Two girls, boys, dogs, bunnies, cats, birds, squirrels, and foxes.
After explaining the job duties, two girls, two cats, and one bird left- totally disgusted at the thought of making people fall in love. (The squirrels, however, found it wonderfully romantic.)
Next up, archery. Cupid soon realized he shouldn’t have brought his special arrows. The squirrels and bunnies departed, two-by-two, madly in love. (Foxes have very good aim.)
Now, the required uniform. Both foxes and boys refused to wear a diaper. (The dogs said they were quite comfortable.)
Cupid was worried. It was time for the flight test and he only saw two dogs left.
Two diapered dogs who couldn’t fly.
Cupid’s plan had failed.
He’d never get through all the requests.
Suddenly, he heard fluttering wings.
Cupid was not alone.
One bird had flown so fast he missed her.
This bird’s amazing archery skills had been overlooked in the match-making madness.
And this bird, whose name was Lily, brought her own stylish diapers.
Together, they reached the bottom of the request pile…
just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Super cute story!
Love this take on Cupid’s big day!
Aww love the mixture of animals that want to help cupid and how then some of the animals feel in love! Really adorable story.
“Two diapered dogs who couldn’t fly.” LOL Very Cute!
Love this, Jamie! Fun group of animals, and humans, that Cupid has to vet for the job. And the Lily shows up just when he needs her, and Cupid doesn’t have to give up his ‘love-ly’ efforts!
Thanks, Katie! Best wishes. 🙂
So. Much. Fun.
Gotta love those squirrels.
So cute and fun! Love the little asides about the different creatures’ preferences.
SWAMP FEVER
By Kathleen Jacobs
WC: 212
****
Muddle Glum was an alligator who fretted about…
Germs, loud noises and ending up in open waters.
Oh, and because today was Valentine’s Day, he worried he’d never find true love.
As alligators frolicked, Muddle Glum refused to play because he knew they peed in the water.
“Gross!” He pinched his scaly snout.
When the toads trilled love songs he stomped away. “I need peace and quiet!”
Before long, he found a serene lagoon and sniffed. The sparkling water smelled fresh and clean!
A toothy grin spread across Muddle Glum’s face when he realized it was completely …
EMPTY!
No pee.
No croaks.
No valentines.
“Well, you can’t have everything.”
He dipped a cautious claw in the turquoise water then snapped it away.
“What if I get washed away?”
“What if I get washed away?” A voice echoed across the lagoon.
Muddle Glum locked eyes with a lovely alligator-et and suddenly felt brave.
“How about we meet halfway?”
She curled her snout. “Will you pee in the water?”
“Never!”
“Okay, you go, then I’ll go.”
Splash!
Muddle Glum dived.
Splash!
His new friend followed.
They sang and frolicked until love tickled their snouts.
Then like two peas in a pod, the lovie dovies sailed away… never to pee in open water.
LOL! Love this cute and funny story!
Thanks, for your kind words!
This is so great! I love Muddle Glum’s name and that he is a germaphobe!
Thank you!
Ha! This is crazy and I love it!
Thank you! These contests are so much fun!!
Love this, Kathleen….you got a way with gators!!!
Thanks!
I worked at an (actual) swamp for ten years, so maybe having alligators as “coworkers” paid off.
I love this story. Your characters are funny. Your writing is spot on. Great job!
Julia
Thanks Julia! 🙂
lovely alligator-et . . . too cute
Thanks for reading my story!
This story made me smile. 🙂
Thank you!!! 🙂🙂🙂
THE GREAT CRUSHTASTROPHE
by
Emy McCarthy
WC: 213
She loves me…
She loves me not!
“Ugh, I knew it.”
Zoe will never notice me.
Stomping across the playground, my brain spins like a merry -go-round.
Maybe I should talk to her…
But…
What if I sound like a fart in a bathtub?
What if she laughs?
What if I have to move to a new school… in Antarctica?
No!!!!
I need a plan.
Plan A: The Cool Trick
I stand in front of the class, spin a basketball on my finger, and—
WHAM!
The ball flies off, knocks over glitter jars, and—oh look—now my teacher’s a shimmery mess.
“Oops!”
“HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!”
The class explodes. I dash out, face redder than a blazing firetruck.
Plan B: The Balancing Trick
I balance a spoon on my nose… with an egg on top.
The class stares. I almost have it and—
SPLAT!
Egg. Everywhere.
“Ewwwwww!”
“HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!”
The class roars.
FWOOSH!
I’m off again—looking like a tomato on the run.
I Give Up!
I plop down on the playground bench.
“That’s it, it’s over.”
Just then, I hear a giggle. Zoé’s smiling at me.
“You’re hilarious,” she says.
“Wanna be friends?”
Wait… what?
My brain freezes, my face turns redder.
“…Uh…”
Zoé grins.
“So, what’s your next trick?”
GULP!
“Uh… disappearing?”
And then I sprint away.
Love your similes and metaphors – so fresh!
Great ending, Emy! Well done!
Excellent similes.
Nice character development . . . I spin a basketball on my finger.
So much fun! That ending is hilarious.
Love Saves the Day
Corine Timmer
214 words
In dappled sunlight
below a leafless canopy,
Anemone began to twitch.
A spring wind was blowing.
As her flower head stretched
above her basal leaves
and opened its petals,
she noticed a clearing in the forest.
“Oh, no!” she said, gasping for air.
A year ago
a carpet of white
star-shaped flowers
just like her
had lit up the forest floor.
Their yellow anthers
swaying in a warm breeze.
“What’s that smell?” Mouse said.
Anemone dropped her head.
“It’s this SMELL FOX,” replied Ferret, pointing at Anemone.
Anemone looked up.
“I’m a windflower,” she said.
“Sent by a Greek God to raise
your spirits.”
“Deep,” Skunk said. “Must be a bad wind!” HAHAHA!
“For such a pretty flower you stink. Who wants to hang out with you?”
“STOP TRAMPLING ON ME!!” Anemone shouted.
“Don’t you know how long it takes for windflowers
to grow!?”
All at once, a hoverfly appeared.
“I think you smell splendid,” he said to Anemone, while swirling
around her. “Musky,” he mumbled, as he
brushed his body against
her golden clouds.
Anemone blushed.
“Gross!” screeched Mouse.
Skunk farted.
“YIKES!” Ferret screamed. “That’s foul!”
“As a token of my commitment,” Hoverfly continued,
“I will disperse your pollen all over the forest.”
Anemone beamed.
“Valentine’s Day roots do run deep!” she said.
Interesting nature facts, and I love the last paragraph.
Thanks for reading and commenting. I’m glad you noticed the facts. It’s not always easy to weave them into a story successfully. A work in progress.
Your opening two stanzas were lovely, but I LOL’d at the last two. Love your sense of humor.
Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
My favorite line: “Must be a bad wind!”
Thanks for stopping by.
Such a funny, lyrical, and beautiful blend of nature and mythology, Corine!
Thanks for reading and commenting.
MY NEW, FURRY LOVE
by Jenn Gaulding
214 Words
I set out this Valentine’s Day
to connect with my pet in some way.
Peeking in from above
at my new, furry love,
I decided he might want to play.
But what if he still isn’t ready?
And what if my hands are not steady?
But what if he is?
Will he know that I’m his?
So I asked “Can I hold you, sweet Teddy?”
I noticed the twitch of his head
as he stirred and he yawned from his bed.
Oh his teeth are so long!
(No, I need to stay strong.)
I will pick up my little love Ted.
I sat myself down on the floor.
I cautiously opened his door.
His water was low.
Is he thirsty? Oh no!
So I hurried to get him some more.
Now that his bottle was set,
I was ready to pick up my pet.
I extended my hand
hoping he’d understand
that I wasn’t too big of a threat.
Today was our chance to re-start.
I could feel the lub-dub of my heart.
My adorable guy
slowly opened one eye.
We were now merely inches apart.
When that hamster went in for the bite,
I discovered my one oversight –
nocturnal pet Ted
do you think that instead
I should try again Valentine’s night?
I LOVE this. The limericks are cute and the twist is fun. I want to read this to my hampster-obsessed little one.
Thanks so much, Kendra! It was certainly inspired by my hamster-loving kiddo and her (actually incredibly sweet) pet Teddy.
I love this, Jenn! Violet says Teddy the Hamster is just like her brother…doesn’t like to be awoken too early (AKA, 11 AM).
Exactly, Violet! 🙂 Thanks, Amanda! I still can’t believe we both wrote this one about a hamster, lol.
I love a twist ending . . . of course I thought this was going to be a puppy.
Great imagery.
Thank you so much!
GROUNDHOG LOVE
By Sherry Dubis
WC: 214
A groundhog, let’s call him, Murray
For Valentine gifts did scurry.
Could Amazon Prime
Deliver on time?
If not, he’d have a new worry.
His intended beloved named Pickle
Whose affections he worried were fickle,
Desired a new bonnet
With feathers upon it
Made to impress and to tickle.
Should headgear be late to arrive,
A new gift he must contrive
Without giving away away
Mistaken delay
Else her interest in him take a dive.
The finest chapeaus made in France
Are requested months in an advance
With one click, in a wink
Chose a cloche styled in pink
While hoping he still stood a chance.
By Lincoln’s birthday Pickle’s hat
Was halfway from warehouse to mat
When a truck bound from Dover
Accidentally backed over
Its packaging, making it flat!
His backup was really not hard
He would simply present her a card.
He sat down in sorrow;
Valentine’s was tomorrow.
Would she leave him outside in the yard?
Pickle spied Murray in tears,
For she knew of his worrisome fears.
She brought him some flowers
She’d gardened for hours.
Since then they’ve been married for years.
Concerning you might make a rift
Minus the ultimate gift.
Don’t spend a dime,
Instead spend your time.
It’s your thinking that might need a shift.
This is such fun! I love the voice, the pace, and the message.
Thanks! I wanted to try a story in limerick form, the message didn’t really gel until I got going. Sometimes that seems to be the way with writing! Surprise!
Thanks! I haven’t been on my own blog in a while.
Fun and unique!
Thank you! Originally, Murray was a hedgehog, and I thought, “It’s February. Why not a groundhog?”
What a fun story and what a great conclusion!
Thanks. Boy I have been off social media and the blog for weeks. Maybe not a bad thing.
Oh my! Poor Murray! I am glad it all worked out for Pickle and Murray in the end. Love the style, very original.
Thank you. I really wanted to try to tel a story completely with a Limerick and somehow it just happened. Sorry so late I have been off media for weeks.
I can’t wipe the grin off my face!
Thanks for that! Any longer getting back on to my blog, it and it’ll be time for Halloweensie again!
Valentiny Contest
Kelly Kates
First Love
WC: 202
His dark heart was always two sizes too small.
Then it grew three times bigger, surprising them all!
And now he was hailed when he walked down the street.
He partied with friends and was asked out to eat.
But this was a puzzle, this Valentine’s Day.
All this talk about feelings, but what should he say?
Friends rushed to buy candy, and paper hearts too.
If you have a big heart, is this what you should do?
With cries of excitement, the crowds raced around.
Then he saw her on his way out of town.
She smiled and waved, and ducked into a store.
His heart began pounding like never before.
He had trouble breathing. He started to sweat.
He dashed to his friend’s house, alarmed and upset.
“I’m scared I’m dying! I shake and I sigh.
My hands are all clammy, I think I may cry.”
The little girl giggled and climbed on his knee.
She patted his green paw, “Now listen to me.
I know this is something you’ve never heard of.
You’re not sick or dying, you’re simply in love.”
She calmed him with water, “Here, I’ll help you start.”
Together they cut out a red paper heart.
Oh, yes . . . that 1st love. Sweet story. I felt the worry for sure.
Thanks so much for reading. It is actually about the Grinch!
I did figure out Grinch. I loved it.
Kelly, I love the blending of holidays. A sequel.
The Kaleidoscope
by Seth Standley Mueller
Shrrr-shrrr-shrrr
“Ugh.”
Shrrr-shrrr-shrrr
“Nope.”
Shrrr-shrrr-shrrr
Kaleidoscopes are usually peaceful. But today, Bean was frustrated.
She and Daddy had a special game, handing the kaleidoscope back and forth, sharing the most beautiful patterns they found.
Yesterday, she’d found the one. Red, pink, hearts everywhere.
It would have been the perfect Valentine’s surprise for Daddy.
But … she dropped it.
Now, no matter how much she twisted and turned …
Shrrr-shrrr-shrrr
Nothing. The pattern was gone.
“What if I can’t find it again?” She whispered to her stuffed lion.
Bean sighed and flopped onto the floor. Her kaleidoscope rolled away.
Fine.
She grabbed some crayons and started to draw. Pink. Red. Hearts. Swirls. Loopties. She did her best to recreate the pattern.
But, as she worked, she couldn’t stop thinking about all the beautiful patterns she and Daddy had shared over the years…
Those found their way into Daddy’s Valentine, too.
Purple. Yellow. Jewels. Zigs. Zags.
When she finished, she blinked.
It wasn’t the pattern she remembered…
It was wayyyy better.
She didn’t even know she could do that.
Daddy loved it, too. With an ear-to-ear grin, he hung it behind his desk for everyone to see and handed her the kaleidoscope.
“Will you teach me how to draw like that?”
Shrrr-shrrr-shrrr
210 Words
This is precious and SO creative!!
Adorable! What a sweet story!
This is so sweet, I could totally see a kid spending hours trying to find a specific color pattern in a kaleidoscope! Love it
Beautiful story!
So different! Nice.
I love kaleidoscopes. If you ever find yourself in Arizona, visit the artsy town of Jerome. You’ll find a kaleidoscope store there . . . with classes to make your own kaleidoscope.
A Love Like Bob’s
By Jacinta Patterson
[WC: 211]
Esme smiled as she pictured chocolates, candy hearts, and handwritten cards. Then, she frowned.
Sniff
Snrrkkh
Sn-ahCHOO!
Mom wiped Esme’s swollen nose.
Esme sniffled.
“Why’d I hab to be sigg today? I’b bissing the class party and won’t ged eddy valebtibes.”
Mom smoothed her hair back from her forehead and dabbed gently with a damp towel.
“I know, my darling.”
Mom tucked her into bed and slipped away. Esme thought about the mailbox she had decorated with such joyful anticipation. Was it sitting empty on her desk, while her classmates licked lollipops and giggled over love letters? Would she be the only one to miss out?
Before long, Mom tiptoed back into her room with a tray of soup and saltines. Esme never got to eat in her room!
Then, Mom sat at the foot of the bed and opened The Secret Garden.
The soup soothed her scratchy throat. The crackers settled her turbulent tummy. And Mom’s voice carried her across the sea.
Lulled into a peaceful semi-slumber, Esme sank into a blur of sensations: salty soup, cooling towel, warm eyes, soft voice, and the faintest whiff of flowers.
Mom. Loving her.
And from her semi-slumber, Esme realized that she hadn’t missed out after all.
“Happy Valebtibe’s Day, Bob,” she whispered.
I LUB this one!!! So sweet. Great work and good luck!
Fabulous, Jacinta! Love it!
This is so sweet! February , the “month of fevers.” I love the way you spelled the stuffy-nosed words to give the character voice!
Oh gosh, this one got me in the feels!!
Yes . . . to miss the Valentine’s Day party is a big deal. Nice take on the prompt.
A Wish and a Worry
by Julie Lerczak
(214 words)
It was Valentine’s Day, and all the blossoms in the florist’s shop were giddy.
Each wore its most passionate color on velvety petals, ready to surprise loved ones.
But Barb, the little cactus, worried she’d be left behind again.
“Oh, please, please pick me,” she murmured as customers walked by.
But one by one, every carnation, daisy, and rose left the store wrapped in cellophane and big red bows. For Barb, it was the most miserable day of the year. Her sharp spikes overshadowed her true loveliness. Barb knew she could bring someone joy if only given the chance.
It was nearly closing time when ringa-linga-ding, the doorbell jingled. In walked one last customer.
“I need something special for my girlfriend—something that won’t wilt,” he announced.
Barb’s little spikes quivered while the gentleman considered his options.
Then, “GULP,” he stood before her.
“I’ll take this one!” he said.
“Oh, darling, it’s perfect!” the gentleman’s girlfriend exclaimed. “It’s just like the cactus I grew up around.” Finally, someone appreciated Barb, understanding the hidden beauty beneath her prickly exterior.
Over the next year, Barb thrived in her new home.
When Valentine’s Day returned, she gifted her sweet owner with a captivating bloom.
After all, she was a rose in her own right— a cactus rose.
AWW Sweet
Great story, Julie!
Love this cactus rose!
awwww, so sweet and who doesn’t love a cactus!?
Just love the message of this story! A heartwarming story with a warrior edge. Super!
Giddy flowers . . . too cute.
Since I live in the desert, this hit home.
Thank you, Jill!
My Valentine’s Day Worries
By Betsy Bennett
(wc 214)
It’s Valentine’s Day and I’m not worried about sending cards to my friends or anything like that. There are other things worrying me.
I’m worried that there are eight pink alligators with long teeth under my bed planning on chomping down on my toes as soon as I walk in the room.
I’m worried about aliens dropping down in a spaceship and grabbing my homework so I’ll get in trouble at school.
I’m worried about all my friends on the bus turning into zombies and trying to eat my brain.
I’m worried that my cat will turn into a sabretooth tiger and be taken away to a zoo and he won’t be able to purr on my lap anymore.
I’m worried there is a scaly dragon in the cupboard eating all my snacks and stealing the raisins from my cereal.
I’m worried there is an ugly chipmunk hiding in the bathroom, planning on pulling my hair when I try to brush my teeth.
These are the silly worries I fill my mind with when there is something else I’m worried about.
The thing that worries me most this Valentine’s Day is my Mom and Dad are getting a divorce and since they don’t love each other anymore, maybe they won’t love me.
Oh! Love “These are the silly worries I fill my mind with when there is something else I’m worried about.”
Thank you for your comment.
Wow. What a gut-punch. Nice work.
Thank you for your comment.
I was all caught up in the imagery and the . . .
Poor kid. I didn’t see the ending coming. Good job with the twist ending. I bet by the end of the day, he knows his parents love him.
Thank you, that’s what I wanted, a stepping off point for parents reading this to their children to discuss their love, regardless of the status of their marriage.
Children can’t understand complex concepts like divorce, and when worry is so intense, they worry about “silly” things, hiding their pain.
I appreciate you taking the time to read and to comment.
V-DAY D-DAY
By Laura Wippell
201 words
On February 11th, General Brain gathered his troops.
Jake’s body parts listened to General Brain’s orders, straight-backed and ready.
Victory would be theirs!
General Brain led the attack: “What if Lucy doesn’t like my card?”
Colonel Tummy cramped!
Major Mouth went dry!
Lieutenant Hands clenched!
But Heart remained calm, deflecting each blow.
On February 12th, General Brain rallied his troops again.
“TODAY will be the day we break Heart! Who’s with me?!”
General Brain commenced with a bloodcurdling battle cry: “What if Lucy doesn’t like my chocolates?”
Colonel Tummy churned!
Major Mouth forgot to breathe!
Captain Knees knocked!
But Heart remained calm, her defense lines secure.
On February 13th, General Brain ordered his tiring troops to formation once again.
“Heart was well-prepared, but TODAY she will fall! Onwards, warriors!”
General Brain brought out the big guns, literally.
“What if Lucy ignores me on Valentine’s Day?!” the cannon exploded.
Colonel Tummy heaved!
Major Mouth retched!
Sergeant Armpits swam!
But Heart remained calm; the cannonballs fell short.
On the morning of February 14th, Heart pitter-pattered in triumph.
Lucy loved the card.
Lucy loved the chocolates.
Lucy most certainly did not ignore Jake that day.
Peace was declared, and Jake’s body parts found calm.
Love this story! Such an interesting approach to personifying worry!
Thanks so much for reading!
Laura, such a fantastically visual way to captivate readers!!! Love that Heart overcomes the worry battle and V-Day (so clever) is saved! Hooray!!!
Such a unique idea and I love every word
Thank you Kendra!
Hooray for Jake and Lucy! Good luck, Laura.
Love the unusual perspective, Laura!
Super unique! Love this story. 🙂
Definitely out of the ordinary Laura. I love the way you show emotions through Jake’s body. Good luck!
Great tension and such a creative approach! “Heart pitter-pattered in triumph”- I love this.
Thanks Lisa! Best of luck with yours too 🙂
That’s literally what falling in love is – brain vs heart trying to overcome swimming armpits!
Great work Laura. Love this story. Unique and funny. Luck!
Great title and creative approach! Well done!
General Brain – great name.
Captain Knees knocked . . . hahaha.
HUSH NOW PHOEBE (174 words)
©Laura Rice Martinez
Hush now Phoebe, don’t you cry
Help me sing a lullaby.
Little Frankie needs some rest.
Then we’ll do what you like best.
Eyes are droopy, singing slows,
out we sneak on tippy toes.
Hurry Phoebe, I won’t peek.
I’ll count to ten. You hide; I’ll seek.
Momma stirs vanilla cake.
Surprise! I found you. Big mistake.
You squeal and laugh and run away.
Frankie cries and we can’t play.
Hush now Phoebe, don’t you cry.
Help me sing a lullaby.
I promise you we’ll make a card,
then decorate the snowy yard.
Eyes are droopy, singing slows,
out we sneak on tippy toes.
Hush now Phoebe, swirl a line.
You press a sticker…Be Mine!
While Momma mixes, whips and spreads,
berry frosting, pinks with reds,
you and I whisk cupid wings,
shape snowy hearts with twigs and things.
She waves her card, the door swings wide.
Frankie coos. Let’s go inside.
Hush now Phoebe,
one,
two,
three.
Take a breath and blow for me.
First, and always ours, you shine.
Happy Birthday, Valentine!
So sweet. A lovely valentine to all those kids out there with holiday or shared birthdays.
Valentine’s Day would be a sweet birthday, but Halloween might be more exciting! Thanks.
This is lovely and well written. I can feel the worry and the love. Good luck!
I was a bit worried about portraying the “worry” for a toddler. Thanks for your vote of confidence.
I can so see this:
out we sneak on tippy toes
This is so sweet, Laura. I love the special details like snowy hearts with twigs. Beautiful images.
Sarah–
Nice of you to stop by!! I was gone for a week after I submitted and just returned….love Valentruck and Valentwine. I saw them on my phone. I have to get in there and read all the entries. Good luck to you!
QUE SERA, SERA, MY SWEET
by Shuba Mohan
(WC 213)
Nestled in their six spots with crinkly, paper-liner cushions, the chocolates were eager to meet their melty mouth match.
With a jostle and a jolt, their heart-shaped home heaved.
A muffled, “Happy Valentine’s Day, Sweetheart! I love you!” crossed the shrink-wrapped cardboard barrier.
“Last one in is a lump of doody,” Gold Wrapper teased.
Almond Cup could feel his coating crumble.
Being bumpy and lumpy, he didn’t expect to be first, but being picked last would be the worst!
The lid lifted.
Fingers floated.
Sweet treats jittered.
Heart-shaped chocolate soared, “First!”
Expected on this day, thought Almond.
Gold Wrapper beamed up, “Second!”
An eye-catching choice. Please, please, Almond prayed.
Praline popped up, “Third!”
What can I do to get attention? Almond fretted.
Then he remembered his bumps gave him height.
Almond took a deep breath and stood tall in anticipation…
Caramel cruised, “Fourth!”
Only Almond and Toffee were left.
All I can do is put my best brown forward, Almond steadied his fears.
Thrust into the light, Toffee twinkled, “Fifth!”
Bitterness coated Almond.
“What’s wrong with me?” he worried.
Finally, Almond rose, but he felt hollow.
Then he heard the sweetest voice, tiny and clear,
“Mama, I saved the best piece for you!”
Almond melted meeting his mouth match with sweet bliss. “First!”
So fun and cute!
Thank you!
Love this Shuba! What a sweet story. So fun to imagine the chocolates version of Valentines Day LOL
Yes it is Stephanie!
Your competition among the Valentine chocolates is awesome! Love that poor Almond gets appreciated at the end. Great alliteration and humor as well. Fantastic!
Appreciate your kind comments, Jill!
Hi Shuba! Great story! I Love the title as well as the imagery! 🍫🍬
Thanks for reading, Susan!
What a fun story, Shuba! 😀
Thank you for your kind words, Kiran!
This is wonderful!
Appreciate your kind words, Julie!
Wonderful writing… Superb storytelling… It’s a winner in my eyes!
That is so sweet! Thank you, Shaunessy!
So visual . . . selecting favorite candies from a box. My favorite . . . toffee!
toffee is a favorite! Thanks for reading, Jill!
An Octopus Apology
By: Susan Summers
WC: 214
Oh Valentine, I think I might have scared you.
Can I explain?
To tell the truth, I didn’t expect to hug you right away, but I was excited to meet you. A new best friend!
Ordinarily, eight arms are a bonus, but I know now that it caused a commotion. I didn’t mean to pull you into the tank, I just wanted to get to know you better.
Please forgive me! I forget how strong I am. And that jet of water in your face? That was meant as a treat. Truly.
Until today, I didn’t realize it could be scary! Water is my world, I play in it all the time. Oh, one more thing…
Suckers. The ones on my arms; once they’re attached, they aren’t easy to disengage. And when they do, with skin like yours, they might leave a mark. Consider them kisses?
Are you still my Valentine? I hope so. Blue hands aren’t good are they? Cold water will do that.
Perhaps on your next visit I’ll only shake your hand, not your arm –
Or leg.
Let’s give this another try. Please?
Only next time, I’ll bring my favorite snack: a crunchy crab. My gift to you!
Gosh, I’m glad we worked this out.
You are coming back aren’t you?
Very sweet Susan, and spelling OCTOPUS APOLOGY with your lines is a cool feature! You really captured how cute an octopus can be! Great job!
Thanks Katie!
I love the ending! Such a fun read throughout. Really nicely done, Susan!
Thanks Michelle!
Original and fun.
“I didn’t mean to pull you into the tank, I just wanted to get to know you better.” Made me laugh 😆
Glad you enjoyed it!
Cool Acrostic!
Thank you!
cute!
Thank you!
This is fantastic! I read “Remarkably Bright Creatures” last month, and this reminded my of Marcellus. Have you read it, by chance?
Glad you enjoyed it. I did read that book. Loved it! Read “The Soul of the Octopus” – I think you’ll like that one too. 🙂
Love the acrostic structure, the octopus facts woven with its earnest voice of apology, and the valentine/friendship theme. A winning combination!
Thanks Jill, it was fun to write.
Nicely done! Great acrostic, I especially like the ending!🐙
Thank you! Glad you liked it.
Great job re-imagining an acrostic poem…🎉
Glad you liked it!
Clever. Clever. Clever.
Thanks Jill! 🙂
The Mystery Gift Returns
By: Susan Summers
WC: 214
PLINK! PLONK! PLUNK! sounds woke the children.
Three heads popped out of bedroom doorways.
“It can’t be!” Ella shouted.
“Maybe,” said Otto.
“Let’s go see,” Audra suggested.
The box was back!
It hummed and thrummed.
It whistled and honked.
It hopped and bopped.
“What in the world?” Audra gasped.
“But Santa had taken it!” Ella gulped.
“So why is it here?” Otto wondered.
They crept closer.
Audra poked it.
Otto twirled it.
Ella sniffed it.
“Chocolate,” Ella cooed.
“Strawberry!” Audra declared.
“Peanut butter?!” Otto exclaimed.
“Let’s open it,” Ella whispered.
“I don’t think that’s a good idea,” Otto replied.
“Look,” Audra pointed.
The box wiggled wildly, excited to be back.
That was when they spotted the tag.
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!
“Hmm,” said Otto.
“Another test,” Ella sighed.
“Maybe,” Audra shrugged.
“What could go wrong?” Otto wondered.
In a flash Scruffy raced into the room.
She barked, then howled; sniffing the box before she snapped it up and ran.
“Should we be worried?” asked Audra.
“We should go after her,” Ella said.
“Definitely,” Otto replied.
They found Scruffy in her doghouse pawing at the box.
PLINK! PLONK! RIP!
Out tumbled –
“Cupid?” cried Ella.
“Oops, wrong address.” Poof.
He, and the box, disappeared.
A note fluttered to the floor – “See you in March.”
“Oh no.”
Enjoyed getting to read more about the mystery box! Still keeping us on the edge of our seats. And looking forward to a sequel in March!
Susan, I love that you continued your story from the Holiday one!!! This is so clever and now I can’t wait to see what happens to the box in March! You could do a chapter book on this and each month could be a different chapter with another holiday and ‘the box’.
I love this trio of characters and think you have a holiday series on your hands. Keep them coming, Susan!
I love what you’ve done here. For those who didn’t read the holiday story, they missed out. I wonder if this could be a PB series??? Still smiling here.
Thanks! It was fun to go back and visit that crazy box….
ENTRY POSTED FOR KAREN
Phyllis’s Quivery-Quaking Valentine
By Karen Opp
Word Count 214
Phyllis the porcupine loved Valentine’s Day.
She had spent hours making a special valentine for Benny. It had glitter and the shiniest red heart in the middle. But now, staring at it, her paws felt clammy.
“What if he thinks it’s silly?” Phyllis muttered.
Her quills quaked. What if no one gave her a valentine? What if she sat alone while everyone else had cards?
As Phyllis walked to school, she glanced at her shadow. “Oh no! Just like in Groundhog Day! If I see my shadow, does that mean six more weeks of this?”
She remembered something her mom had told her: “Porcupines have over 30,000 quills. When we’re scared, they stand up, ready for anything!” Phyllis peeked at her flat quills. “I’m not that scared,” she thought.
At school, the Valentine’s exchange began. Cards fluttered across desks. Phyllis’s paws felt glued to her card.
Then Benny turned to her, smiling. Holding a card.
“For you!” he said.
Phyllis gasped. It was shaped like a porcupine, covered in tiny, sparkly hearts.
“You made this for me?” she whispered.
“Of course! You’re my best friend.”
The tightness in her chest melted away like chocolate on a warm day.
Valentine’s Day wasn’t about perfect cards—it was about love and friendship. That was truly perfect.
I’m glad SOMEONE wrote a porcupine story. You included a few facts, too.
Will She Be Mine?
By Marta Cutler
(177)
This year, this month
I cannot wait
To finally declare
my emotional state
But small won’t do
To say, “be mine”
For so big a love
Needs something divine
It must be grand
As majestic as she
A masterpiece of hearts
A Valentine from me!
With markers at hand
I cut, slice and brew
A whirlwind of paper
ribbons and glue
More sparkles more swirls
More glitter more pink
Is it perfect enough?
Oh, what will she think?
Will it draw a smile?
Oh, will it impress
The magnificent heart
Of my grey Empress?
Not yet. Needs more!
More glitz more wow!
A fabulous, eyepopping
heart stopping kapow!
Cherry red, hot pink
I hope she likes rose
A blizzard of sequins
My Valentine grows
A final flourish
It’s over, I’m done
I add my last sparkle
Put down my glue gun
It glows in my kitchen
A volcano of love
But will it be visible
From so far above?
I can only hold hope
My queen, she’ll see
For my Valentine’s an elephant
And I am a flea.
Love your twist ending!! That glue gun must be heavy.
Ha ha ha! That’s so funny. I was envisioning THE tiniest glue gun ever! Thanks for the comment Laura!
A second read through is TOTALLY different. I adore twist endings.
Great surprise ending!!!!
Tyler
128 words
Sue Ko
I thought today might be different.
It’s Valentine’s Day.
Boy, was I wrong.
“Wake up!”
“Hurry up!”
“Don’t be late!”
“Get your coat!”
“Go to the bathroom!”
“Look both ways!”
“Slow down!”
“Hurry up!”
“Slow down!”
“Is your homework done?”
“Finish your dinner!”
“Slow down!”
“Hurry up!”
“Go to sleep!”
WHOOSH!
Blanket jerked up to my eyes.
Dad’s big hand over the light switch.
His figure in the doorway.
But then – he stops.
“Son, I…”
“Yeah, Dad?”
“I…I…worry about you, Son.”
“Really, Dad?”
“Of course, Son. You’re a good boy. You’re the best thing that ever happened to me.”
He stands there a second more.
“Well. Goodnight, Son.”
“Goodnight, Dad.”
CLICK.
In the dark, I snuggle under my warm blanket.
“I love you too, Dad. Happy Valentine’s Day.”
What a sweet way to end the day.
Thanks so much, Jill. 🙂
Happy Friends Day
by Trine Grillo
214 Words
At his new American school, Niko learned about Valentine’s Day.
“I don’t want to choose a girlfriend,” he said. “I don’t want to give love cards and red candies and cookie hearts.”
His mommo said, “In our homeland of Finland, February 14th is Ystävänpäivä – The Day of Friends. We tell our best friend what we like about them with a poem or a painting.”
“I like to make art,” said Niko. “I will choose Anton.”
“What if Anton thinks I’m foolish? What if he doesn’t want to be my friend?”
“Nonsense!” said Mummo. You are a good friend. You will think of something to say.”
Niko tossed and turned in his bed.
What should I write? What kind of drawing will Anton like?
Niko gathered his canvas and paints. He thought and he thought. And then he painted. He drew Anton and him toppling off a sled on Snow Hill, tangling their fishing lines in the creek, and their tongues licking ice cream that dripped down their chins.
At the bottom of the paper Niko wrote in neat red letters:
“I like me when I’m with you.”
On Valentine’s Day, Niko handed Anton the painting. “Happy Ystävänpäivä,” he said.
Anton looked at Niko’s pictures and laughed and laughed.
“Let’s get the sleds!” he said.
Very nice! Love the Finnish custom.
❤
Thanks for sharing. We should have this day every day!
Wouldn’t that be nice!
Title- The Perfect Valentine Gift
Words- 214
Author- Priyanka Betrabet
It was Valentine’s Day. Usually, Carrie would be happily making cards for friends and family but today she seemed visibly upset. She glanced at her one-eyed black cat sprawled on the sofa.
“Kylie, I’m worried. Aunt Vinny is visiting us this afternoon. She is mean, obnoxious and hates cats.” Kylie was anxious and hoped Carrie’s aunt wouldn’t create trouble.
Aunt Vinny arrived at three pm and plonked herself on the sofa. She was a motor-mouth who wouldn’t stop chatting. Soon it was six pm- meal time. Kylie crept into the kitchen hoping no one would notice. Alas! It was too late. Aunt Vinny shrieked,” Eeks a black cat. Get rid of it now. Cats don’t need to be inside the house.”
Kylie hid under the table as her tail twitched nervously. Would Carrie’s family abandon her she wondered.
But something miraculous happened. Carrie’s mother had heard enough. “Vinny you don’t need to stay if you can’t speak nicely about our cat. Kylie is family and family stays. If you wish, I’ll book a cab for you.”
Aunt Vinny was stunned. She couldn’t believe her ears. She stormed out of the house vowing never to return. Kylie purred loudly as she realized, she was immensely loved. This was the perfect Valentine’s Day gift after all.
ENTRY POSTED FOR KATIE
CHICKEN LITTLE‘S VALENTINES
Katie Schwartz
w/c – 211
Hurry-scurry – scurry-hurry, what’s a chick to do!
Valentine’s is here, my heavens, I am in a stew.
A Valentine?? I’ve friends galore, I hafta choose just one?
My Chicken-face-Book’s full of peeps. I’m totally undone.
I ponder Henny Penny…hmm, she’s sometimes addlepated.
Goosey Loosey’s loud and proud – her honk is celebrated!
Ducky Lucky’s plucky and a true-blue feathered friend.
With happy quacks, he has your back. He’s faithful to the end!
Turkey Lurkey’s self-assertive – CHEEP and he’ll be there.
Helpful when a feathered friend is sorting out a scare.
Time to stop this worrying and end my silly slacking.
Figure out who’s number one. Oh-oh, the sky is cracking!
Zigzag lines from thunderclouds KAPOWIE! to the ground.
“Friends” I clucked, “come help me NOW!” They promptly gather ‘round.
“Chicken Little, it’s a storm, don’t let your feathers fly.
Remember when the acorn bonked you, falling from the sky?”
“Ha-HaH! That was a funny day, I guess I caused a scene.
Starting now, I’m gonna be unruffled and serene.”
Big soggy leaves hit Little’s face! “Eek – the world’s gone black!”
Her friends turn tail with giggle fits — but speedily come back.
They peel the leaves and Little chirps, “You didn’t disappear!”
GROUP HUG! They traded Valentines. And all the skies were clear.
Yay! Group hug and lots of Valentines to share in the end! Hoorah for Henny Penny!
Thanks for reading Michelle! It was fun to write!
A fun look at the life of Chicken Little, love the descriptions of the friends and the whimsical story. A great ending – a group hug for Valentine’s Day. 🙂
Thanks Susan! Chicken Little always gets the help she needs in the end. Because she’s lovable – just like her friends!
Love the play on Chicken Little and friends and the onomatopoeia. So fun and a perfect ending!
Thanks for reading, Jill! Chicken Little is a little chicken, but her friends make all the difference. Just like people…!
Haha- this is such a fun play on Valentine’s and Chicken Little. Great job!
Thank you Jamie! I think Chicken Little and her friends make perfect Valentines! Thank you for reading!
Nice job working all the birds into the story. Gotta the scene of the group hug.
Thank you Jill! I hadn’t read the original story in quite some time, had to go back and read it to refresh my memory. Almost did leave someone out! Thank you for reading!
Delightful!
Thank you, Sarah! And good luck in the contest!
That’s What Squirrels Are For
By Lori Dubbin
Word Count 211
I am Bear, I truly care.
Squirrel’s Valentine is ready,
I’ve made it special, just for him,
With rainbows and confetti.
I wonder, and I ponder,
Will Squirrel treasure my creation?
I stuff it in my backpack
For our Heart Day celebration.
On the trek, I must inspect
My card, so free of wrinkles.
“Oh no,” I roar. “This isn’t good!”
The card now has some crinkles!
I must have mashed it, when I stashed it.
The confetti sprinkled out.
Squirrel will not be pleased at all.
I worry, and I pout.
When I look down, right on the ground,
I see a rock so flat.
“This rock will smooth the card out!”
(Make it new again…like that)!
I place the card below the rock,
My confidence still low –
Underneath the rock is sharp
It pokes a hole. “Oh no!”
“What can I do to fix it?”
Squirrel’s Valentine looks worn.
I wanted it to cheer him up
Oh, wait a sec. “ACORN!”
The acorn fits inside the hole.
It makes the card unique.
I hope that Squirrel will like it,
It’s the thought that counts, I think.
Squirrel hugs and lugs my Valentine!
He loves the acorn best.
He saves that for a rainy day
And crumples up the rest.
Lori, what a cute story premise! Love the rhyme and that Squirrel loves his new acorn. Great job.
Wow! A rhyming masterpiece and so adorable–a real winner!
Squirrel and Bear, what a perfect match!
Love your rhyming story! My grandfather used to feed squirrels candy Lifesavers in the park. I bet your squirrel would do backflips for them.
What wonderful rhyme and unique characters! Loved the fun outcome at the end. Excellent job!
A wonderfully creative idea and a wonderful solution at the end! Well done.
What a great rhyming story, Lori! Super cute, too!
Delightful!!!
Awe . . . a bear and a squirrel.
Several really fun lines (and fun to read aloud).
Secret, Secret Valentine
by Michael Kokozos
214 words
Inside a shoebox, inside a drawer, inside a closet, lived the valentine. A drawing of a seahorse, with a note: “You’re the coolest fish in the sea!” Leo’s heart did a flip-flop. It was from Jamie. Jamie who loved Legos and shared gummy bears. Leo traced the seahorse’s tail. A warm feeling spread through his chest. He closed the shoebox.
Days turned into weeks. The valentine stayed hidden. Leo would sometimes sneak into his closet, open the shoebox, and look at it. He wanted to put it up, but a little worry bug kept whispering no! in his ear.
One afternoon, Leo came home to find his room…tidier.
He raced to the closet, flinging the door open. The shoebox was gone! He frantically searched more drawers. Where was it? What if she’d thrown it away? What if she’d seen it?
Then he noticed it. The seahorse valentine, taped to his bulletin board next to his dinosaur drawing.
His mom appeared in the doorway. “I found this little fish out of water,” she said.
Leo wanted to explain, but the words just wouldn’t come out.
His mom squeezed his shoulder. “Whoever gave you this,” she said, “must think you’re special. And I think you’re special too.”
A different warm feeling spread through Leo’s chest.
What a sweet Valentine story- gives me that warm feeling too! Awwwwh.
Whew! That sweet card wasn’t thrown out . . . and may be treasured every day! I hope they are in the same class this year!
First Love
By Jen Summers
213 words
“Wait for me!” Sadie bellowed as her brother and mom dashed past. She’d been worried about meeting Max for the first time and hoped to make a good impression. As she put the final touches on his Valentine’s gift, she thought, “I can hardly believe I’ll meet him today: a day dedicated to love!”
“We’re late. And Max doesn’t care about Valentine’s Day,” her brother quipped.
In the car, Sadie was silent. She realized several times that, filled with excitement and worry, she was holding her breath. When they arrived, Sadie clenched Max’s gift and walked through the front door. Greeted by a smiling man, Sadie whispered, “I’m here to meet Max.”
“This way,” he said. “He’s been waiting for you.”
They meandered down an endless hall, their footsteps echoing. The gift slipped in Sadie’s sweaty hands. As they rounded the final corner, there was Max.
Through the chain link, Sadie saw his big eyes and drooping tail. He was worried too!
“This old guy’s been waiting for a home for a long time,” the man said. “I’m overjoyed he’s finally found one.”
The cage opened. Sadie knelt. Hesitantly, Max stepped towards her and sniffed the basket of toys she’d arranged.
“Hi Max,” Sadie said as he nuzzled her cheek. “Happy Valentine’s Day.”
Nicely done! So glad Max and Sadie found each other.
Me too 😜. Thank you for your message!
Jen, this is such a sweet story with great language, dialogue, and pacing! I love the surprise at the end when Sadie meets Max for the first time. Well done!!!
Thanks Mona! Appreciate your kind words.
I loved finding out who Max is – great suspense wrapped up in such a sweet story!
Thanks Laura! 😉
Nice job building anticipation. I thought this may be an adoption story. I wasn’t disappointed with the ending. Both Sadie and Max found ‘love at first sight.’
ENTRY POSTED FOR ELYSE
Valentine’s Day Road Trip
(Based on a true event)
By Elyse Trevers
(210 words)
Valentine’s Day meowed and listened for familiar sounds – the call
of his name and the can opening.
He’d run off the night before to investigate the woods but when he returned he noticed the campfire was extinguished and the ashes doused with water. His owners cleaned up before departing from Yellowstone Park.
They left nothing behind-
Except Valentine’s Day!
His tail twitched and his ears pinned back. Worrying, he hissed loudly.
He wanted to go home to his family. But how would he find them ?
Using his strong sense of smell, he cautiously took a step forward,
and began his journey.
He walked and walked and walked.
He crept along the pavement in the park,
scavenging for scraps left behind
and drinking rainwater from puddles.
During the night, Valentine meowed, meowed, and meowed.
What if his owners adopted a new cat?
He reached I80W.
Crouching low, he hid from the tractor trailers
with bright lights and blaring horns.
eating leftovers tossed from vehicles.
taking cat naps alongside the road.
900 Miles and two months later, the Siamese cat reached California.
Shrieks filled the air, “Valentine’s Day! Valentine’s Day! Is that you?”
Scooped up into the arms of his family, he purred and listened for the familiar sound of the can-opener.
Amazing story! As a fellow camper with a cat who wanders off at inopportune times, may I suggest you get Valentine’s Day a radio collar as a Valentine gift?
Thank you. What’s amazing it that the real cat actually found its way back home.
Whew! A happy ending.
I had to giggle at the humor of ‘taking cat naps’ sprinkled in the midst of the serious journey of a lost cat.
ENTRY POSTED FOR ELLEN
One in a Million
By Ellen Akemi Crosby
213 words
I eyed my competition. Some have lacey borders made of snowflake paper. Others have glitzy glitter for sparkle and shine. Still others have colorful ribbons woven in bright patterns. Different designs and textures. Some are big and magnificent. Others, small and cute.
Then there’s me.
I am plain.
A white card with a red heart. The middle of my heart says, “Be My Valentine” in light pink letters. Too simple. How will I ever stand out in the crowded store display? Talk about not being seen. What were they thinking when they made me? Nothing written inside. No sweet words of kindness, friendship, or care.
We’re all unpacked now and being placed in the proper slot. Each of us hopes that we’ll be spied and chosen. Each of us wants to be that special card given to that special someone. And here I am way at the bottom. Who is going to see me? Will I be the only one left after Valentine’s Day?
“Mom, this is the perfect one!” A little girl snatched me up. “It says exactly what I want it to say on front and I can write what I want to say inside!” “I love it!”
I guess it doesn’t matter what you are like. You are loved, too!
Hi Ellen. Cute perspective. I’m glad you are participating!
Nice twist from the card’s point of view!
I would love that simple card!
Anna Beaver and the Shining Heart
by Elise Derstine
word count: 212
Anna Beaver had found the perfect gift for Mama: a shiny, heart-shaped keychain.
And then … she lost it.
“Nooo!” Anna sobbed.
She paced the lodge, wringing her webbed paws.
She thought about her sweet, hard-working Mama.
She HAD to find that shining heart.
SPLASH! Anna dove into the pond.
Squish! She dredged up the muddy bottom.
Splat! She slapped the mud onto the outside of the lodge, searching each slippery handful for the shining heart.
Nothing.
“UGH!” Anna fought back tears. “Maybe I need a better view.”
Chew, chew, chew! Anna gnawed a towering poplar until …
CRASH! She climbed the tree that now slanted up across the water, scanning the banks for the shining heart.
Nothing.
Anna’s own heart sank. Without a gift for Mama, she wanted to disappear.
SPLOOSH! Anna dove to the base of the lodge.
Dig, dig, chomp, chomp! She tunneled through the layers of sticks and muck. Then she dug out a small room, curled up, and fell asleep.
Anna woke to Mama’s gentle nuzzles.
“Thank you for the best Valentine’s gift ever.”
Anna blinked, bewildered. “What gift?”
“You finished my to-do list!”
“Now I have what I really want – time with you.”
Anna’s heart shone.
Elise,
I love it! What a clever story and fabulous ending! Having someone complete my To Do List so I could spend quality time with them is my dream Valentine!! Well done!
Aw. What a sweet story! You can’t go wrong with a beaver ‘tale’ for valentine’s day. 🙂
So true. Time together IS the best gift.
The Blank Heart
By Jill Lambert
(210 words)
I knew I was different when the little girl tore our box open and dumped us out on her desk.
“Ooh –– Be Mine! Ahh –– XOXO! Oh –– Only You!”
When she got to me, no oohs. No ahhs. No ohs.
She flipped me over, then huffed, “Blank! Who wants a blank candy heart? What a dud!”
She flicked me off her desk and I flew onto the reading table.
Blank? How did that happen? No one wants a blank heart on Valentine’s Day. Woe is me…I’m worthless!
“Okay, class,” the teacher announced. “Party’s over. Time to pack up.”
Everyone stuffed valentines into their backpacks and got ready for dismissal.
I panicked. Oh, no, I’m going to be left behind!
Out of nowhere, a hand appeared. I was scooped up and shoved into an overcrowded coat pocket.
I’ll be forgotten in here for months!
After a bumpy bus ride, I heard voices.
“Hi, Mom. I’m home!”
“How was your Valentine’s Day Party?”
“It was fun. I saved you a cupcake. And here –– a candy heart for you.”
“Oh, thank you honey. Hmm, that’s strange…it’s blank.”
I cringed. Trash, here I come!
Then, a sweet voice: “I know, Mom. I picked that heart on purpose. I love you more than words can say.”
what a clever ending! well done!
Thank you!
I love the twist – not a paper valentine, nor a chocolate one – but a candy one! Everyone recognizes these sweets; I think writing from the candy’s pov was perfect! And the ending, sweet. Well done!
Thanks, Susan! I appreciate it!
Jill, I love this so much! I remember those blank hearts in the bag from when I was a kid. I always wondered ‘why’ they were blank! Now I know.
So happy this story solved the mystery, Michelle. Thank you!
Very original and a perfect twist ending!
Thanks so much!
Sweet (pun intended). I remember the short-lived disappointment when I found a chalky heart without a message . . . but I ate it anyway!
Yes––me, too! Thanks for reading!
I particularly like the sweet ending.
Thank you, Corine!
A Valentine’s Day Surprise
by Catherine Rose
(208 words)
Angie moved a lot. It was difficult for her to make friends – even harder to keep them. Usually, she could find the silver lining, but not this time. Starting at a new school on Valentine’s Day was expecting too much of her.
She’d asked her mom if she could stay home. Afterall, she didn’t need to go to the party. No one would have a Valentine for her. They didn’t even know her. But her mom was a stickler for not missing more school days than necessary.
So here she was, standing in the third-grade line outside Fuller Elementary wishing she could disappear. Angie could see the other kids glancing her way and whispering. No doubt wondering who she was. Many of them were holding Valentine bags they’d made at home. Angie also had one in her backpack, but she was sure it would remain empty.
The bell rang. Angie took a deep breath and began walking down the hallway, following the other kids to room 301. She put on her best “happy to be here smile” and walked into the room.
The teacher rushed over to welcome her. Angie thanked her, before turning to find her locker. That’s when she noticed the banner.
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY, ANGIE!
Great premise…a child starting a new school on Valentine’s Day. Your story is so sweet! It brought a tear to my eye. You build the tension well and I felt Angie’s anxiety. The banner was a nice surprise to Angie, but also the reader!
Thank you. I am so glad you enjoyed my story.
Touching surprise at the end! Kudos to the teacher & class, lol
I’m glad you enjoyed the ending. No one should be left out on Valentine’s Day.
I’m glad she received a memorable welcome. She needed that (so did I).
I am so glad you enjoyed the ending of my story.
Had to join the heartfelt fun!
A Pebble for Penny
by J Buchet (213 w)
Valentine’s Day is the perfect day
For penguins to gift
The perfect pebble.
All around the colony,
Gentoos proclaimed their love
With tiny tokens of stone.
They hustled and bustled,
Giving and receiving
Some even–uhoh
Stealing!
But not Buxby
He cradled his pebble
Shiny and smooth
“Penny,” was all he cooed
“Move it,” trumpeted a neighbor.
“Outta my way,” yelled another.
Pushed and shoved,
Buxby waddled away.
He shuffled left.
He shimmied right.
But suddenly his perfect pebble
Rolled out of sight!
Penny would never be his Valentine now!
Buxby squawked! Buxby scrambled!
Should he squabble? Or maybe steal?
He paced and he pondered.
No, he’d find another
Perfect pebble for Penny.
Heart hammering, flippers flapping,
Buxby frantically combed the beach.
Shuffling, scooting
Sifting and sorting
Would Penny choose another?
Something sparkled in the waves.
“That’s it!”
Buxby dove on top and
Heard a muffled squawk.
“That’s for Mommy,” chirped a chick.
“She won’t love me without it.”
Buxby swallowed hard.
He hadn’t meant to shove.
He didn’t mean to peck.
Yet this pebble was perfect….
“Nonsense,” he sighed. “She’ll love you no matter what. Here.”
Buxby lumbered away.
Stopping. Flopping.
Pebble-less.
Single.
All alone.
Until something bonked his beak.
A pebble?
“Oh Buxby,” cooed Penny. “I’ll love you no matter what, too.”
So happy to learn something new from your beautiful and heartwarming story!!!!! I am fascinated with the idea that gentoos show their love by giving each other stones!!! Bravo!!!
Ooh, I’m doing my “happy feet” dance! (Had to reference a penguin, ya know!) Glad you enjoyed
So imaginative! Love it.
Thanks so much, Lauri! You may never see a pebble in the same way, lol
Awww….Buxby has such a kind heart!
He is a sweet beak, lol!
What a cute visual . . . penguins on Valentine’s Day.
Thank you! I was inspired by our winter animal theme in my classroom,lol!
Bonnie’s Valentine
By Lizzie Dunn
Word Count: 214
Bonnie was sitting at the dining room table, making Valentine’s Day cards for her classmates. Her feet swung, not quite reaching the floor. Mama noticed something was off; Bonnie seemed flustered.
“What’s wrong, Bonnie?” asked Mama.
“Oh, Mama,” said Bonnie. “I can’t make my Valentines. My tummy hurts, my hands are sweaty, and my heart is thumping so loud!”
“Oh, dear,” says Mama. “It sounds like you are worried about something.”
“Yes! That’s it. I’m worried, Mama,” said Bonnie.
“What are you so worried about, Bonnie?” asked Mama.
“I’m worried I won’t have a Valentine,” said Bonnie.
“Why won’t you have a Valentine?” asked Mama.
“Because I don’t have a sweetheart. I don’t have someone’s hand to hold,” explained Bonnie.
“Well, what do you think a Valentine is?” asked Mama.
“A Valentine is someone you love!” replied Bonnie.
“Right,” said Mama. “And I know you love me, and your grandparents, and your friends, and your pets.”
“So, can anyone I love be my Valentine? Can Grandma be my Valentine? And my best friend Lucy? And even our cat, Oreo?”
“Yes,” said Mama. “They can all be your Valentine”.
Bonnie thought about this for a moment. Then she asked, “Mama, will you be my Valentine?”
“Of course,” said Mama. “I will always be your Valentine.”
Wise words that in real life, more kids should hear!
I love this visual: Her feet swung, not quite reaching the floor.
Mandy’s Valentines
By Una Belle Townsend
214 Words
Mandy’s Valentines
Miss Milton gave us the news about Mandy and her family during class on Monday morning. My friend wasn’t at school because her home had burned down during the night. Mandy and her family were okay, but they had lost everything in the fire. I knew our little town would help them, but they had lost so much lately. Her baby sister had been sick, and was finally out of the hospital. Her dad was able to go back to work after getting hurt on the job. I worried about Mandy, and I wondered how I could help her.
With the Valentine’s Day Party on Friday, Mandy would want some cute valentines. She wouldn’t have the money to buy them, so I told my mom I wanted to surprise Mandy and help her make valentines for our class. Mom agreed I could have a party and help Mandy. I asked three of our classmates to come over for pizza on Wednesday and bring along any extra craft supplies they had at home. I invited Mandy to join us for pizza. We surprised her with glitter, ribbons, beads, stickers, and lacy red hearts. We helped Mandy make twenty valentines for our class, one for our teacher, Miss Milton, and some for the local fire department.
How terribly sad & yet so sweet that friends are helping Mandy
Thank you for your comment. Yes, it was somewhat sad, and yet I tried to see it from a child’s point of view. They would assume that the grown-ups would take care of the big stuff, but the adults might not consider valentines as important to a child who had just lost everything.
Very true!
I have a feeling that sweet, caring character will grow up to be a nurse. Touching story.
Thank you for your reply. I agree. I have had some very kind and considerate students who became nurses, and I believe they were kind and a “little” worried about some my other students. They cared for others early in life.
Una Belle
The Valentine’s Day Flu
By Elizabeth Muster
WC 214
“It’s Valentine’s Day!” Jessie woke up on February fourteenth excited for her favorite holiday.
Achoo!
Oh, no! She couldn’t be sick…could she?
But her throat was scratchy. Her body ached. Her head was full of snot.
“I’m afraid you have the flu,” said Mother, pulling the thermometer from Jessie’s mouth.
“But I can’t miss today,” wailed Jessie. “What if no one puts any cards in my box? What if someone eats my treat? What if – Ah – Ah – Achoo!”
“You’re staying home, Jessie,” said Mother. “Why don’t you go read a book?”
But focusing on the letters hurt Jessie’s head. Her games were noisy. There was nothing on TV.
She pulled the covers over her head and sobbed…and sniffled…and swiped with her sleeve…until she drifted off to sleep.
Hours later, Jessie awoke to the sound of the doorbell. She couldn’t tell who was at the door, but after the car pulled away, Jessie’s mother came into the bedroom.
“Mrs. Patterson brought this by,” said Mother, handing Jessie a pink box with J-E-S-S-I-E written in big red letters.
One by one, Jessie opened the envelopes from the box. There was a card from each student in her class.
Jessie’s favorite read:
“Roses are red,
But I am blue.
Valentine’s was fun,
But I sure missed you!”
Great story! Loved the ending 🙂
Even the snottiest days can turn out sweet! I enjoyed reading this Elizabeth 🙂
Sweet story and realistic winter problem. 🙂
That party is so important to kids. I’m glad the teacher brightened Jessie’s day.
What a thoughtful teacher and class.
Super cute story Jill, love the ending! Glad the little candy heart went from being very underappreciated, to where he was appreciated – rightfully so! Nice lesson, that even ‘plain janes’ belong somewhere, and shouldn’t be tossed aside!
Caty the Cactus
by Katie Gigliotti – (180 w)
Caty the cactus
sat on the shelf
of Hooper’s big grocery store.
While bright blooming buds,
with beautiful hues,
were picked up and walked out the door.
Time after time she’d
make a new friend and
they would be gone in a day.
Arrangements, bouquets,
baskets, and singles –
the pretty ones all went away.
She tried to get picked.
To make herself seen
she’d give a big smile and a wave;
but no one would look.
No one seemed to care,
and soon she stopped feeling so brave.
Why was she still here?
Because she was green?
Or maybe it was all the spikes?
But by the thirteenth,
it was very clear,
that she was not wanted or liked.
She sat all alone,
the shelf was her home.
The floral department was bare.
When up walked a child
who looked down and smiled.
“That’s it! That’s the one. Right there!”
“It’s perfect for mom!
She really likes plants,
but needs one she won’t have to water.”
So off Caty went,
in two little hands,
thrilled someone had finally bought her.
That ending- bravo!! So true, a cactus is perfect for a busy parent, haha
Perfect ending!
What a fun story, a nice ode to an underappreciated plant! 🙂
Sweet story and cute unexpected main character!
And . . . guess what . . . that cactus will last a LOT longer than wilted flowers.
A Pirate’s Love
By Andi Chitty
204 words
A pirate sailed the open sea
He and his ship, Her Majesty.
“Oh, me sweet ship, do ya think that I’ll find
A Valentine’s friend, who’s worthy and kind?”
With wind in her sails, and clear skies above
They searched for someone a pirate could love.
But the salty mermaids teased their look,
“Me ship is just fine, and so is me hook!”
Then Cetus called Her Majesty “frail”!
“Git yer fins off me ship, ya blubbery whale!”
He couldn’t believe ol’ Kraken’s crass,
When the sea monster poked Her Majesty’s brass.
“Oh, me sweet ship, I don’t think that I’ll find
A Valentine’s friend, who’s worthy and kind.”
Then out of nowhere, his ship tipped back.
The seas grew rough, and the sky turned black.
“Batten the hatches! YARR, a squall!”
The pirate’s ship faced a watery wall.
He clung to her mast as her sail hugged around him
A loving embrace to protect and surround him.
YARRR!!
SLAM!
SPLASH!
The water drained, and Her Majesty stilled,
And the pirate’s love tank brimmed and filled.
“Sweet buccaneer, it’s all so clear,
Me *true* Valentine was always here.”
“Yar, me Queen! I finally see.
I’s got me love here, just me ship and me.”
Aw man, it took out all my spacing! There should be a blank line between each stanza
Bummer!
Thank you, Susanna, for fixing it!! 😀
Oh my, this is so delightful!!! Truly impressive to write this in rhyme while keeping the pirate’s voice throughout! Excellent job, Andi – and the perfect, sweetest ending! Loved every bit of this one. 🙂
Thank you so much, Jessica!! 😀
This is so fun to read! Loved the ending too!
Thanks so much, Stephanie!
This is so much fun. Love these unexpected Valentine’s Day characters.
Impressive and well done, like always! ❤
Great character development. I love the last line!
Valentimes Day
By Lori A. Sheroan
214 Words
Mid-February,
snow on the ground,
in Ms. Minus’s classroom,
not one single sound.
Fourth graders, stunned,
had nothing to say,
for Ms. Minus declared
it was Valentimes Day.
No Valentine’s party,
no candy, not even a card,
just a times tables quiz…
impossibly hard.
They couldn’t use calculators,
computers, or charts.
The kids who weren’t worried
had mathematical hearts.
The rest of the students,
feeling the stress,
pored over notebooks
during morning recess.
Studying their sixes,
elevens, nines…
Oh, how they missed
those sweet valentines!
They sharpened their pencils,
practiced the twelves.
“Sevens are tricky,”
they said to themselves.
Ms. Minus set the timer,
passed out the test.
She said, “You can do it!
Just do your best.”
They raced through the twos,
fours, fives without error.
The higher the numbers,
the stronger the terror.
The timer sounded.
Pencils grew still.
Did they have any
mathematical skill?
They sat in silence,
their faces troubled.
She frowned as she graded.
Their worries doubled.
When the final test
had been carefully scored,
Ms. Minus stood,
walked past the board.
She opened the cabinet,
filled with markers and glue,
to reveal heart-shaped treat bags
and a cookie cake, too.
“You’ve all worked so hard
on this Valentine’s Day,
and each one of you earned…
a Valentimes A!”
Oh gosh, this is great, Lori! So many clever rhymes, I chuckled quite a few times. Well done!!!
Awwww! I was a kid with a mathematical heart and now I will be adding that phrase to my vocab. So sweet. ❤
This is so sweet! So clever how you infused math, Valentine’s Day, worry and rhyme all into this story! I loved the line “The higher the numbers, the stronger the terror.” I can relate!
I really enjoyed this one, especially the gentle tension of math stress in place of holiday fun. What a sweet ending too!
What a fun story.
My favorite lines:
–The higher the numbers, the stronger the terror.
–Their worries doubled.
Lori, what a clever rhyme!