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 
A VALENTINE BEAR
Penelope McNally
WC: 214
Bear set three alarms to be sure he would wake up in time for Valentine’s day this year.
Every Spring after hibernating, he hears about all the winter fun he’s missed.
The Valentine’s Day party sounds especially fun.
He’s determined that this year he, too, will go to the Valentine party.
He triple checks his triple alarms, and gets into bed.
What happens at a Valentine’s party, he wonders.
Bear tosses.
It’s a lovey dovey day, he knows that much. Does he have to kiss someone? That might be kind of yucky. He’s not sure he wants to do that.
Bear turns.
Do I have to make cards for everyone? How many? Do we even have construction paper? Crayons?
He’s about to ask mom or dad, but they’re both fast asleep, not worrying about Valentines.
Bear lies on his back
I can’t even draw a heart. Maybe mom can draw one and I can cut it out. But scissors…I haven’t figured those out yet.
Bear’s mind was spinning. These party questions were going to keep him up all winter.
Maybe there’s a reason bears sleep through Valentine’s Day, he thought.
Bear knocked his alarms to the ground, yawned a great big hibernating yawn and was soon fast asleep dreaming of springtime and blueberries.
This is so cute. The ending line had me smiling. 🙂
Thanks, Sarah! Happy you enjoyed my story 🙂
I love everything about this!
ENTRY POSTED FOR MARTY
Will the Worrier
By Marty Findley
207 words
Sunday at dinner Will worried that his chicken was touching his beans and applesauce. YUK! What if the beans in his tummy sprouted into bean plants? He remembered what happened at school when they planted a bean. What if beans sprouted out of his ears? Dad said, “Stop worrying!”
Monday he worried his balloon would pop in the night and scare him awake! His brother said, “That’s silly!”
Tuesday he worried that Mom had forgotten him at school. Mom said, “Sorry. The traffic was a nightmare!”
Wednesday he worried he wouldn’t like the lunch in the school cafeteria. The teacher said, “Don’t worry. It’s good for you!” He was right to worry.
Thursday he worried he wouldn’t get picked for Sam’s team at kickball. Sam said, “Don’t worry. You’re my best friend!”
But his worst worries came on Friday – Valentine’s Day! He worried that Susie wouldn’t like the special valentine he made for her. Maybe he should have used more glitter. And what if no one gave him any valentines? He had a tummy churning with worries. Or possibly bean plants? He told himself not to worry.
Saturday he looked at all his valentines and especially the one from Susie. No worries here! His tummy felt fine – just hungry!
Cute! I like the days of the week structure too.
Thank you !
Nice. A worry for every day of the week (except Saturday).
I appreciate the comment!
Quite a week of worries! 🙂
Everyone Deserves a Valentine by Lucia Lemieux (214 words)
“Mom, why do I have to give everyone a valentine?” asked Sally.
“Because you’re kind,” said Mom.
“But some boys will think I like-like them. Ewww.”
“Are there any boys you *do *like?” asked Mom.
“Maah–omm…” Sally’s face turned red. “Well…there’s one.”
“Oh,” Mom said. “How would you feel if he didn’t give you a valentine?”
Sally didn’t answer.
“Yours may be the only valentine some children get,” said Mom. “And everyone deserves a valentine.”
Sally kept writing. She wrote Sally on the “from” part, and a name on the “to” part.
*What if Billy doesn’t give me a valentine? *she thought.
At school, Sally put valentines in the decorated boxes on each desk. Others stopped at some boxes, but not all. Sally watched Billy. Did he put one in my box?
While room parents passed out treats, children opened their valentines. Sally opened hers one by one. The more she opened, the sadder she got. One was left.
A tear rolled down her face.
Billy walked over timidly. “Got your valentine,” he said. “Did you like mine?”
“You…you didn’t give me one.”
“I did!” He took the biggest homemade heart off her desk and handed it to Sally. She turned it over.
“You forgot to write your name, Billy,” she said, smiling.
Silly Billy 🙂 Cute story!
You capture the stress and anxiety of Valentine’s Day for some children well. Yay! Billie comes through with a homemade heart!
How often this has happened either as the sender or the recipient. Great build-up.
Judy
Most important line: “And everyone deserves a valentine.”
Well done.
The Last Linguini – Rella B Books (123)
Linguini wiggled in the box. It was Valentine’s Day—his big moment!
Everyone was making pasta. He wanted to be perfect.
Perfectly cooked.
Perfectly sauced.
Perfectly twirled.
The box tipped. Noodles tumbled into the pot.
But, oh no! He was stuck at the bottom.
The last noodle. Alone.
His heart boiled with worry. What if he wasn’t good enough? What if he never got chosen?
The water bubbled. The noodles danced. Laughter filled the kitchen.
Linguini’s worry twisted like a fork in spaghetti. He had been so focused on being perfect, he forgot what really mattered. Being together!
Plop! At last, he landed in the pot.
Steam curled around him. Sauce swirled.
He stretched, soft and springy.
Perfect? Maybe not.
But Al Dente?
Absolutely.
So many great word choices, well done!
Clever and cute! Love the word play 🙂
Being perfect isn’t everything – even if you’re a piece of pasta. You’re right being a part of the party is what counts.
Judy
So many great ‘pasta’ words/lines. Well done (pun intended).
Glitter, Glitz, and Valentine Bits – Gabriella Keys (150)
Mia’s heart raced. Tomorrow was Valentine’s Day!
Did she have everything? She checked her supplies. Paper? Stickers? Markers? Phew!
Would she finish in time? She scribbled and snipped.
Wait! Did she spell everyone’s name right? She double-checked. Triple-checked. Okay, all set!
Now, the finishing touch. GLITTER! Shake, shake—KA-BOOM!
Glitter rained down. On the table. On the floor. On Mia’s hair!
“Oh, fiddle sticks!”
Her family rushed in. Sweep, swipe, scrub. The mess was cleared. Mostly.
Mia sighed. At least the Valentines were safe.
Wait! What if she forgot them at home? She set them by the door.
But what if no one liked them? What if they thought they were too… sparkly?
At school, Mia handed them out, heart thudding.
Her friends gasped. “So pretty!” “They shimmer!” “I love the glitter!”
Mia grinned. Maybe a little extra sparkle wasn’t so bad after all.
Everything is better with glitter!
Nicely done! The worry really comes through.
Love how engaging the pace of your story is. It really draws me in.
This sums up all the worries and tribulations for sending just the right card.
Judy
I love the glitter. When my friends grumble about glitter all over their houses (from Christmas cards), I smile. I love it!
Love the title . . . and all the glitter. Nice pacing.
Jack’s Valentine Yarn
By Jessica Iwanski
Word count: 211
Once upon a great, big hill
lived little Jack and sister Jill.
Now Jack was quite the knitting pro.
He knitted day and night and so –
for Valentine’s he thought he’d knit
a brand new, bright red oven mitt
for dearest Granny down the way,
whose favorite was this holiday.
But just before he started on –
Bump-thump! The yarn rolled – then was gone!
“Oh no!” Jack worried. What to do?
So down he ran, and Jill ran, too,
past Mary and her little sheep,
the Cat, the Cow, and dear Bo Peep.
“No time to chat!” Jack darted by.
The crew ran too, to find out why.
Past Humpty Dumpty’s little wall
they chased the roly-poly ball.
And Humpty, having seen the race,
hopped down and quickly joined the chase.
“Come back!” Jack pleaded, dashing fast.
They all ran on – then stopped at last.
To Granny’s door the yarn had led.
“My gift is ruined!” poor Jack said.
But Granny flung her front door wide
and found her neighbors just outside.
“Why, Jack!” she said. “What’s this I see?
A Valentine’s surprise for me?
My darling Jack, you must have guessed
that friends are what I love the best!
Do come inside and have a snack.
And happy Valentine’s Day, Jack!”
Aw, this is so sweet, and so fun to read!
Thanks so much, Andi! I had fun writing it! 🙂
I love Jack and his Granny! I want an invite to her next Valentines Day snack party 🙂
I’ll put in a good word for you. 😉
I love this perfect Valentine’s Day yarn and the play on words in the title! Wow! This feels like a classic read aloud! I feel Jack’s worry as his yarn rolls down the hill past all his nursery land friends. What a clever and fun ending! Bravo, Jessica!!!
Thanks so much, Mona! You are always such an encouragement to me! And nice catch on the title’s double meaning. 🙂
Love this! Such fun to read aloud.
Thanks, Amanda! So glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
I love the combination of the nursery rhyme characters and the sweet ending! Well done!
Thanks so much, Bri! 🙂 I appreciate it!
Love the opening . . . and all the characters!
Worried Winds – 129
The wind section huddled together. Tonight was the Valentine’s concert!
But worry swirled like a restless melody.
Would they harmonize?
Would the crowd like them?
Would anyone even come?
The new flute trembled. “What if I squeak?”
The clarinet piped up. “Practice, practice, practice!”
So, they played. Over, and over, and over again. Notes fluttered; tones blended.
The new flute took a deep breath. “All we can do is try. We’ve practiced, now let’s put it to the test.”
The lights dimmed. The curtain rose.
The music began. Sweet and strong.
GASP! The flute played the wrong note!
He froze. Had everyone heard?
But the music carried on, warm and bright. He picked up where he had left off.
The crowd swayed.
The last note lingered. Silence… then applause!
A standing ovation! Cheers!
The flute beamed. They weren’t perfect… but they still were loved.
My favorite line:
But worry swirled like a restless melody.
I liked the personification of the instruments.
LIL’ WAVEY, THE WORRIER 206 Words
By Judy Hughes
Wind tickled ocean’s water.
Lil’ Wavey wiggled ripples .
Some water splashed; some rose high.
Lil’ Wavey watched and worried.
Neighbor waves said to prepare
To travel the ocean soon.
This spot seemed safe to Wavey.
Kind friends, shrimp and krill lived here.
Drifting together was fun.
Wavey loved to loll and lap.
Nearby, waves slap-crashed on ships.
Their loud sounds made Wavey cringe.
Above, Pelicans circled.
Were they looking for some lunch?
Would they eat Wavey’s dear friends?
Wavey worried and fretted.
For now, the birds rode the waves.
Floating they faced each other.
That’s when the surprise happened.
Their heads and necks seemed to touch,
Together they formed a heart.
After flying far away,
They had spotted one another.
Now Wavey felt confident,
To travel the ocean blue.
Wavey, too, could rejoin friends.
Energy replaced worries.
When ocean floor rumbles quaked,
Wavey joined neighboring waves,
And many ocean creatures.
For the first time Wavey wore,
A white cap, with pride and joy.
No longer a worrier,
Wavey joined an ocean swell.
Bravely the waves surged forward,
And swashed onto a sandbank.
Then shrank low and soon backwashed.
As they drew back towards their friends,
They left beach-comer treasures.
Can you find any heart shapes?
Having a wave as the MC is such a unique idea! Nicely done
Thank you for reading my story and leaving a comment!
Judy
BROKEN HEARTS
(213 words)
by Lisa Billa
Amanda had a super-important job for Room 2A’s party–
bringing the Valentine cookies.
She loved to bake!
Because her friends were extra special, these cookies would need to be extra perfect.
Amanda did her best helping.
She measured, mixed, and rolled.
The first hearts were a lot too crispy.
The next ones, not quite flat.
Finally, just-right cookies, covered with pink and red sprinkles–
she couldn’t wait to share!
Amanda packed the cookies in a box
and carried them very gently all the way to school.
As the bell rang, she rushed to class,
but on the sidewalk, she slid on an icy spot.
Oww…oh, no!
Her box landed with an awful THUMP.
When Amanda picked herself up, the box was still closed.
She opened it anxiously…
Oh! NOOO!
The disaster was even worse than she’d imagined…
every last heart was broken.
The party’s ruined now! My friends will be really sad.
In the classroom, Amanda showed them the mess.
“Ohhhhh.” So many sighs. She couldn’t look. Then…
Shanti gave Amanda a big hug,
Sam found a tray,
and her friends arranged the broken pieces
into just the right shape–
“Look! An extra-big heart.”
Room 2A had a great party.
“Beautiful and delicious!” said her friends.
Amanda grinned. “Happy Valentine’s Day!” she said.
Room 2A is the classroom to be, with delish treats & wonderful friends!
I can’t find a “like” button- thanks for reading!
Amanda has such beautiful friends. I loved reading this story – it’s so sweet, Lisa!
Thanks, Laura, and good luck to your story!
And his is such a sweet story! Good luck!
A cookie mosaic! What a sweet group of friends!
I love the gigantic cookie heart, such a sweet resolution. Brava!
Ah! Cookie crumbles. Still taste good, right?
Lisa, this is such a beautiful story that captures the true spirit of Valentine’s Day! It always means so much when our friends share their kind hearts with us. The “extra-big heart” is such a memorable ending!!! Congrats!
FIREFLY DANCE (210 words)
by Katie Dubay
The dance starts at dusk
as it always does.
Bugs lighting up
in the name of love.
I hate these things.
Wanna know why?
My light’s not bright
I’m a dim firefly.
No way, not a chance
will I get a dance.
I wish it were dawn
and the night would be gone.
I could forget all about
being left out!
This party of one –
it’s really no fun.
Just then
a far glow
catches my eye
like a shooting star,
a quick flash like a match.
Ooh, I like that
firefly!
Is he flashing for me
that beautiful show?
It just can’t be.
Is it rude not to glow
(back)?
I just don’t know!
Would he dance with me?
No way, not a chance.
Can he not see,
I’m too dim for romance?
Closer now,
a warm glow
brightens my eyes
like a shooting star,
a quick flash like a match.
Ooh, I like that
firefly!
Is he lit up for me?
No! How could it be?
He can’t even see me,
unless … possibly??
(Here I go!)
I answer back
a double
* glow * glow *
like a heartbeat.
Oh!
Quick flash
like a match
lights up my face.
He took a shine to me!
“Wanna dance?”
Firefly dance is so cute! I can already picture the fun illustrations
Super nice of you to say. 🙂 Thank you so much for reading it!
I love the opening line! I can picture the twinkling dance. Beautiful!
Thanks so much for your kind words ☺️
Word Count 214
Happy Valentine’s Day, Worry Wart
By Sharon McCarthy
Sarah sprinted towards Benny on Valentine’s Day, yelling, “Benny, be my Valentine!”
“Okay,” said Benny, “but I’m worried about that.”
“Why?” asked Sarah.
“My mom said I’m a worry wart.”
“So?!”
“Look!” said Benny. Sarah gasped at his finger wart.”
Benny huffed.
“I’m sorry, Benny, but Valentine’s, hold hands.”
“You’re right, Sarah. Maybe Harry should be your Valentine. He never worries.”
Sarah stomped her feet and clenched her fists. “You make me mad, Benjamin!”
“How?”
“Valentines love each other!”’
“Yes, they do,” said Benny, blushing.
“And, my mother said, you fight for people you love. I asked you to be my Valentine! Not, HARRY!”
Benny stood silent.
“You could have said, hold my other hand!”
“Sorry,” said Benny.
Sarah grabbed Benny’s hand and pulled him towards school. “Let’s hurry. We’re missing the Valentine’s stuff!”
“Sarah?”
“What! Benny?”
“I was worried because I thought you wouldn’t be my Valentine. But now the wart will disappear ’cause I’m not worried anymore!”
Sarah braked and gazed at Benny.
“Can I tell you something?”
Benny covered his eyes. “Yes?”
“Thanks for worrying about me, Benny.”
“No problem!”
Then, Benny pulled out the forgotten bandage his mother gave him and wrapped it around his wart.
“I’ll never worry again, Valentine!”
“Okay, worry wart!” Sarah laughed. [Benny grasps with nonwart-hand]
I love how you used “worry wort” in this Valentine’s Day context. So cleaver!
Thanks Julie!
I love the title . . . and I clearly know why you came up with it!
Thanks so much!
Who will be Grandma’s Valentine?
(198 words)
By Lauri C. Meyers
On Valentine’s Day, I see pair after pair.
Mama’s with Daddy, and Rover has bear,
Big sister Grace and her dumb boyfriend Matt.
Even my teacher’s in love with her cat.
Since Grandpa has left us…my grandma’s just one—
I worry her Valentine’s Day won’t be fun.
Who will bring flowers to brighten her smile?
Who will surprise her and chat for a while?
Chocolates, a card and a candlelight date…
Someone must tell her that she’s really great!
Maybe her neighbor will ask her to tea—
It should be someone who loves her like…
ME!
I draw her a card and compose a sweet phrase.
I make no-bake cookies with pink and red glaze.
I snip-snip some paper and spray mom’s perfume,
create a bouquet of fresh flowers in bloom.
I cover her windows with hand-crafted art
and order a pizza that’s shaped like a heart.
“All this for me?” Grandma laughs, and I shrug.
She squeezes me tight in her world-famous hug.
“Grandpa’s not here, but I hope that you know:
you’re not alone Grandma, and I love you so!”
We pig out on treats and a pizza to share.
Grandma and me—a Valentine’s pair!
Aw Lauri, this is so sweet! What a thoughtful grandchild. I also loved the humour in the line “Even my teacher’s in love with her cat.”! Think this could make a lovely PB with its great mix of humor and heart.
Sweet!
“…her dumb boyfriend Matt” hahaha. This is super sweet! And as always, your rhymes are spot on! 🙂
One can’t help but feel the love this child feels for Grandma. How sweet the child was worried on Valentine’s Day. Well done from start to finish. Nice bringing the story full circle . . . starting and ending with pairs.
Beautiful story with great humor! I love how the protagonist’s arc goes from worried to determined to help Grandma. The whole story flows nicely and such a wonderful ending.
Very sweet Laurie! Love the grandchild’s thoughtfulness and actions!
What a lovely story!
This turned out really great!
Picture Perfect by Helen Lysicatos (214)
Vera sifted inside her craft box, “I’m going to make Yiayia a Valentine’s Day card she will never forget”.
She picked out red and pink glitter, shimmery stickers, sparkly hearts and colorful paper. But the most important part were a stack of photos her mom handed her. “These should help Yiayia remember all those adventures you two had together.”
Vera nodded, she hoped it would. Sometimes Yiayia would forget things. It made them both a little scared and a little sad when it happened.
She added the finishing touches to the card, “It’s perfect! But I hope its enough.”
As they walked to Yiayia’s she couldn’t stop fidgeting.
The flick and click of her zipper, the flip and flop of the card, the twirl and swirl of her hair.
When they arrived she burst thru the front door without knocking.
“Happy Valentines Day Yiayia, I made you this!”
She handed her the card and waited…
and waited…
and then….
“Thank you Vera! It’s perfect!”
“Here”, Yiayia handed Vera a card and gift, “I could never forget my wonderful granddaughter.”
She felt happy and relieved all at once.
The rest of the day they recounted their adventures, ate cookies and made new memories. Vera took lots of pictures so they could remember this day forever.
Aw, such a personalized valentine! Sweet story. I love the last paragraph.
Thank you Jill!
A Paw-sitively Perfect Valentine’s Day
By Tiffany Hanson, 213 Words
I bought the perfect Valentine’s Day cards this year. But when went to bed there were pieces of paper scattered around my room. I groaned. My cards had been torn to shreds!
My puppy, Pickles, trotted into the room, paper still on her paws.
My heart sank. It was too late to go to the store. I’d be the only kid in class without cards to give out.
Would my classmates be angry?
I looked at Pickles’ paws. I could make something instead. Something from Pickles and me.
Luckily, we had non-toxic washable paint.
I stuck my hand in the red paint and placed it on the cards and did the same for Pickles’ paws. Then I gave Pickles a bath.
I wrote a message in the cards. They were a bit messy with paint flecks. Would anyone notice?
I frowned on my way to school the next morning. Everyone else would probably have store-bought cards.
Would my classmates like my paw-made ones or would they laugh?
I held my breath as I passed out my cards.
Then I saw my classmates smiling. My teacher read my note to the class.
“I hope your Valentine’s Day is Paw-sitively Perfect. From Penny and Pickles.”
I smiled. Turns out the cards were perfect after all.
What a cute story…I can totally relate to her grade school Valentine’s anxiety!
Smiling here. What fun visuals of Penny and Pickles creating those cards.
LOVE, AT LAST
(210 words)
By Teresa Speranza Vargas
Peanut Brittle bounced along the crowded conveyor belt. “Hi! I’m P!”
Buttercream snarked, “That’s what candy makers do in the restroom.”
Peanut Brittle panicked. “Oh! I meant B.”
Buttercream, Caramel and Truffle gave B the cold treatment.
B lamented, “What if we don’t get chosen for the special heart boxes?”
Caramel scoffed, “We will, but you won’t. Brittles never get heart boxes.”
B gazed over the side of the conveyer belt at the empty, elegant Valentine boxes below.
The belt jerked and B flipped and landed in a small box!
B couldn’t believe it. It was a heart box!
Truffle gasped, “What are YOU doing in HERE? You’re NOT chocolatey.”
Buttercream, Caramel and Truffle giggled and gossiped, ignoring B.
B wedged itself into the pointed tip of the heart, as tight as it could.
Days passed. B couldn’t sleep. It’s bed, a tiny, flattened candy cup, was uncomfortable. The chatter of the rude nuggets echoed. “What if I’m stuck in here forever?”
The lid popped open. Light!
Buttercream called out, “Here we go!”
Caramel and Truffle checked each other’s chocolate coatings.
“You’re smooth.”
“You’re sleek.”
A child peered inside and squealed with delight! “Peanut Brittle!”
B soared higher and higher.
And for two seconds of its life, B felt loved.
Yay for Peanut Brittle. Nice message withtin. Good luck!
Thank you! 🙂
The lid popped open. Light! . . . Hahaha. Peanut brittle for Valentine’s Day would be a good idea!
Shakesbear Presents: Honey and Berry
(Kids version of Romeo and Juliet)
By Dawn Hauptner
Word count: 190
Deep in the forest lived two bear families – the Honeybears and the Berrypaws. Though they lived across the creek from each other, they had been feuding for generations.
Honey Honeybear and Berry Berrypaw were two lively cubs who, despite their families not getting along, were best friends.
It’s Valentine’s Day and Berry sneaks off to see Honey. “I hope I don’t get caught,” Berry says.
“Berry, Oh Berry – Are you out there, Berry? Honey says.
“Here I am, Honey – and I made you a special Valentine’s Day treat!” Berry replies.
Berry climbs up to Honey’s window.
“Happy Valentine’s Day!” Berry says.
“Honey!” Mama Honeybear calls.
Honey and Berry freeze. They hear footsteps coming toward the door.
“You must leave now,” Honey says worried. “We mustn’t let our families know about this.”
“Happy Valentine’s Day, Berry.”
“Parting is such sweet sorrow, for I can’t wait for it to be ‘morrow,” Berry says with a smile.
“You are my very best friend in the whole world,” Honey says. “For I can’t wait for it to be ‘morrow… too.”
Berry climbs down from Honey’s window and scampers off into the woods… Until tomorrow…
Very nice take based on the classic Romeo and Juliet. Such a hopeful ending!
Good job!
Thank you, Carmen! It was fun writing this.
Shakespeare’s spirit is glowing at you for this delightful Valentine!!
Thank you, Donna! I’m a big Shakespeare fan.
Oh no, I’m totally gripped! What happens next?
Read the book to find out! Haha! Thanks, Paul!
How clever to write a Shakespearean parody…with a more child relatable ending for Honey and Berry :).
Thank you, Lori. I’m thinking of doing these Shakesbear stories into mini children’s plays. Just a thought…
Hahaha, very cute and funny!
Thank you, Poupette!
I’m glad they got to see each other . . . those sneaky bears. I’m glad nobody died!
Haha! I figured for young kids it should end happy!
A VALENTINE
FROMFOR CHLOEBy Caitlin T.D. Robinson
(214 words)
Sabrina checked her pocket and purred while she waited for the bus.
“Will Chloe remember we’re best friends today?”
At school, Valentines overflowed Sabrina’s basket, but… where was Chloe’s?
Just then, Chloe trotted in, but Ms. Winter started circle.
All through show and share, snack and story time, Sabrina tried to talk to Chloe.
“My stomach hurts, Ms. Winter.”
“Too much candy?”
“Maybe,” Sabrina whispered. “Can I see the nurse?”
Sabrina saw Chloe playing with Amaya. Sabrina’s whiskers drooped.
“Time to go, Sabrina.”
Sabrina meandered back.
Chloe and Amaya were still together.
Sabrina hissed, knocked over their tower and tore up her valentine for Chloe.
The rest of the afternoon, Sabrina skidded away from Chloe.
At dismissal, Ms. Winter announced the pairs to line up.
“And… Chloe and Sabrina.” Sabrina’s tail twitched.
“Happy Valentine’s Day,” Chloe said, placing a valentine on Sabrina’s paws.
Eyes wide, Sabrina lowered her chin.
“Happy Valentine’s Day, Chloe. I’m sorry. I tore yours up.”
“Why?”
“Because I didn’t get a valentine from you!”
“I was making it purrrfect! Your valentine is the most special of all!”
Sabrina smiled. “Will you play with me, Chloe? I missed you.”
Chloe meowed, which made Sabrina meow, which made Chloe meow again.
Soon, they were both meowing and giggling out the door together.
I’m happy they reunited in the end. Good luck!
“Will Chloe remember we’re best friends today?” Hahaha . . . one never knows from one day to the next on any given school day.
WHAT COLOR IS LOVE?
by Marcia Dalphin Williams
WC: 214
Snip, snip.
“Mama, the scissors ripped it. My Valentine has to be perfect.”
“No worries, I’ll get tape. Why does it have to be perfect?”
“It’s for somebody super special.”
“For your teacher?”
“Maybe.”
Snap
“No! Mama, my yellow crayon broke. I want to color it perfect.”
“We can tape it.”
“Thanks.”
Scratch, scratch, scratch.
“Now I made a hole in it Mama. I colored too hard.”
“We can paste it down on another piece of paper. Here’s flour paste.”
“Yum. Can I eat some, Mama?”
“No. Did that fix it?”
“Yes, but what color is love, Mama? I want it to be the perfect color for love.”
“Well, certainly warm brown like you.”
“Or creamy like you and whipped cream, Mama.”
“Or dreamy blue like the sky. Or yellow like the warm sunshine.”
“Or purple like my dragon. Or orange like me when I was a pumpkin.”
“Or green like a lucky clover.”
“Oh, I can’t draw that Mama. How can I draw all the colors for love, on here?”
“Your Valentine is already red like a heart.”
“I know Mama. I can draw a rainbow with all the colors.”
“That’s what love is, all the colors. Right Mama?”
“Yes, and more.”
“It’s for you Mama. Wait, what color goes next to yellow?”
What color is love? Every color of the rainbow. Lovely!
Thank you Eleanor. Good luck with your entry!
Lovely. Nice message, too.
Thank you Jill. I’ll be reading other entries today, now that our weather events have calmed down.
First Day Valentine
by Joanna Szeto
word count: 214
Board plane Tuesday.
Arrive in America Wednesday.
Paperwork Thursday.
Start school Friday on Valentine’s Day.
Should we buy Valentines?
Mama wants to know.
I don’t know their names.
How do I say hello?
Candy, sweets, or flowers?
What to bring to school?
Mama buys oranges.
Anyone think they’re cool?
What if no one says hi?
What if nobody wants to play?
What if I don’t get gifts?
What should I do or say?
No Valentines for me would make me feel blue.
But getting a Valentine makes me worry too.
Should I give a hug? Is that impolite?
Should I bow instead? Would that feel right?
Should I take the gift and smile
Knowing the lie won’t last a while?
I’m allergic to milk chocolate, to dairy and all nuts
I need an inhaler for asthma when I’m near some furry mutts.
I stayed up late last night to make a bunch of hearts
Out of paper squares, with lots of moving parts.
A heart for every student, teachers, and the staff.
I estimated three hundred. I’m really good at math.
They decorated the classroom with colorful balloons.
We celebrated together by watching silly cartoons.
I passed out my hearts. Ate some berry parfait.
Glad I went to school on this glorious new day.
Quite the challenge on Valentine’s Day. I’m happy everything worked out.
This is so lovely! I adore all the little details you put in- especially regarding expressing gratitude! Nervousness surrounding not getting and getting a valentine is a fantastic interpretation of the prompt! You made a board book manuscript really immersive- great job!
Love these lines:
Should I give a hug? Is that impolite?
Should I bow instead? Would that feel right?
A heart for every student, teachers, and the staff.
I estimated three hundred. I’m really good at math.
Love Gone Wild
by Bri Lawyer
(214 words)
Cupid set out to spread love. While soaring, his bag strap snapped, sending arrows plummeting to the forest below.
Tiger’s eyes were locked on his next meal when—ZAP!—an arrow struck him in the rear. At that exact moment, Deer was struck mid-leap.
“Dear, Deer,” Tiger purred, “Your spots shimmer like the morning sun.”
Deer’s heart pounded, for an entirely different reason than before. “Your stripes are mesmerizing.”
Fox had been chasing Rabbit when—THWIP!—both were hit by arrows.
“You scamper like a ballerina.” Fox blushed.
Rabbit’s heart fluttered as she pirouetted into Fox’s embrace.
Cupid landed near a pond, bow trembling, realizing the mess he’d created. Predators and prey were forgetting the balance of nature! “Excuse me! Animals, we have a problem!”
Bear swooned. “The only problem here is that Salmon and I can’t decide if our wedding colors should be gold or red.”
Cupid panicked. “You’re not supposed to be getting married! You’re supposed to be enemies!”
“Enemies!” Tiger gasped, “We’re head over paws in love! A wise beetle once told me, ‘All you need is love.’”
PLINK!
Cupid tripped onto an arrow.
“Have my wings always been this symmetrical?” He batted his eyelashes at his reflection. “You’re right. Love is all we need.” He blew himself a kiss. “Carry on, everyone!”
This is hilarious. I wish I had a few of cupid’s arrows.
Thanks so much! I wish I did too haha!
So so funny, Bri!! Well done!
Thanks SO much, Andi!
Ha, this is hilarious! Perfect mix of heart and science! Super cute and fresh, Bri!
Thank you SO much, Laura!
I love it all, from the title to the hilarious reactions of the animals! Great job!
Thank you SO much, Melissa!
“A wise beetle…” Brilliant.
Thank you SO much!
This story cacked me up! This would make a really fun PB!!!
Thank you SO much, Michelle! I loved it so much I’ve already turned it into a PB! 😊
Haha! This is so great, Bri! Hilarious and clever, especially the “wise beetle.” 😉 I feel like this is the start of a fantastic picture book!
Thank you SO much, Jessica! I loved it so much I’ve already started turning it into a PB! 😊
This is super cute. Great job!
Thank you SO much!
Superb! The Bear and Salmon line had me cackling!
Thank you SO much, Shaunessy! That’s one of my favorite lines too! 😊
This is so much fun and funny and creative.
Thanks so much, Jill! 🥰
WHO STOLE VALENTINE’S DAY?
By Debbie Neuenschwander
A girl named Riley Nebinsmitch, a piggy-loving kid,
had to make a Valentine’s Day box. Here’s what she did:
She gave it two plump, pointy ears, a curly, long, pink tail,
a porky snout, and one big slot for Valentine’s Day mail.
On Valentine’s Day morning, Riley woke to something weird.
Her plumpy, pinky, porky, piggy box had disappeared!
Worry overcame her. WHERE HAD LITTLE PIGGY GONE??!!
She looked around the house and saw the pantry light was on.
All the Valentine’s Day treats intended for her school
were missing from their packages. This REALLY wasn’t cool!
What about the Valentine’s Day cards that Riley wrote?
She looked inside her backpack – not one single, heart-shaped note!
“SOMEONE’S STOLEN VALENTINE’S DAY!” Riley cried, distraught.
“They stole my pig, my cards, my treats, and everything I’ve got!”
But who could be so naughty? Was it Sniffy, Riley’s cat?
Or maybe it was Riley’s nemesis, her brother Matt.
Then she heard a rustling from behind her closet door.
She opened up and saw a marvel never seen before!
Brimming full of goodies, Piggy’s tail wagged like a dog.
Riley scolded, “PIGGY, SHEESH!
Don’t be such a HOG!”
Quite the mystery. Funny. Good luck!
So cute! Piggies and Valentine’s Day just seem to click!
Some of these lines were so humorous to me. Thanks for the giggles.
A Valentine for Porcupine
by Susan Corry; 212 words
Porcupine paced back and forth.
How will I find a friend before Valentine’s Day tomorrow?
His last friendship with Balloon had ended…um…rather abruptly.
I need someone less delicate.
Porcupine made a valentine’s card using lace and glitter, then set off on his quest.
At the playground, he spied a blue ball.
Porcupine fidgeted with the lace on his card.
Hmm…I hope Ball is stronger than Balloon was.
Porcupine started to say hi when a gust of wind blew Ball right into his quills!
POP! WHOOOOSH.
Oh no…not again!
Porcupine’s tummy ached, but he kept searching.
At the aquarium, he saw a spiny, purple creature.
A sea urchin! We’re practically twins!
Porcupine’s eyes twinkled, but when he realized Urchin couldn’t leave the aquarium, his heart sank to the bottom of the ocean.
I’ll never find anyone before tomorrow!
Porcupine walked, head down, until he found himself at the Desert Botanical Garden.
In front of him stood a tall, green silhouette with two arms.
She’s waving to me!
Porcupine’s quills tingled with delight as he waddled over.
“I made this for you,” he said.
Porcupine affixed the card onto one of her prickly spines, then plopped down beside his new friend, Cactus. Together, they watched the sun set — just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Ahhh, sweet ending. I’m happy he found a friend.
Thank you…me too!
Hey Eleanor, I keep trying to comment on your own story, but it never posts accurately. So just wanted to tell you I love your message of friendship and kindness — something that’s extra important these days. 🙂
Thanks Susan for reading. Times are hard but writing for kids to help them cope and help them see there is light at the end of the tunnel makes me happy. They need an escape route in books. Especially now. 🙂
Adore this, Susan! They’re a perfect match.
A fun story! I can imagine the illustrations, especially the sunset ending!
Thank you…I appreciate it!
Great ending.
I’m so sorry for the multiple posts! I can’t get the formatting correct for this poem when I submit it as a comment… gah! (I had attempted to post it again because something didn’t copy correctly in the initial one). I swear I’m not trying to clog up the submissions! So sorry!
Email it to me in the body of an email and I’ll see if I can fix it! 🙂
THE OTTER VALENTINE
Susan Burdorf
Word Count: 208
Would she like it?
Would she hate it?
Would she throw it away?
Or save it in a secret place?
Ollie didn’t know.
With trembling paws
he brushed back his fur
and approached her.
Holding out the card
he’d so carefully made –
it’s red heart etched with lace,
it’s letters curved and bold,
he laid it on her desk.
LET ME BE YOUR
OTTER VALENTINE
he’d written so carefully,
each letter bright and big.
She smiled and laid it with all the others.
Ollie’s heart sank into his chest.
She has so many, he thought with sadness.
Mine won’t stand out, will be lost in the mess.
All day he waited to see if she noticed
He couldn’t do math, just couldn’t focus.
Then came the bell, and the class filed out.
Shoulders slumping he stepped out the door
One last glance back and he stopped and stared.
She was reading his card.
Was she smiling?
She turned to look at him, eyes sparkling
“Of course, you can be my Otter Valentine,”
she said with a grin.
He wiggled.
He jumped for joy and flapped his flippers
She liked it.
She put it in the drawer.
Her secret place.
I could feel his anxiety, nice ending.
I like the way Otter’s worry escalated until she smiled and saved his valentine in a secret place. Such a satisfying ending and so much emotion conveyed in 208 words. Such a sweet story, Susan!
I could feel Otter’s worry. I’m glad he could finally relax.
A pretty mess, but I’m sure her friends will appreciate her unusual artistic cards. Good luck!
The Valentine Mouse by Anne Catliff
“I’ve got the class mice for half-term!” shouted Michael.
That’s so exciting.” Anne jumped up from her desk scattering paper valentine hearts.
“We can decorate their cage, and feed them heart shaped treats and do they have a love nest?”
“They’re boys and no silly Valentine’s day nonsense Anne. Come on I’ll show them to you.”
It was a magnificent cage with three floors, stairways, hiding holes, slides and running wheels.
Michael opened its door.
Glistening black eyes looked at them. This was Mungo a fearless brown mouse. He ran up and down their arms. But the other mouse was nowhere to be seen.
Michael didn’t seem to care but Anne was worried. All day she stayed by the cage making encouraging mouse noises. She couldn’t eat lunch and she didn’t make any Valentine cards.
“That cage needs cleaning out” said Mum “Those mice are so smelly!”
They carefully lifted the top of the cage off. Mungo came out willingly. Anne pulled at some matted straw.
“I think there’s something in there” she squealed.
She carefully lifted the layer of straw. Underneath was a golden mouse surrounded by six pink wriggling shapes.
Anne laughed “Michael, I think your mouse should be called Valentina and she is in a love nest!”
I love the visual of the 3 story cage.
Adaline’s Valentine Box
By Jessica Evans
Word Count: 214
Adaline’s boots sloshed through the sloppy snow. She had to go slow since her arms were full. She carried a red and pink box carefully decorated with candy hearts and glitter. Her name was spelled out in dazzling gems.
Adaline shuffled along, careful not to drop the box. Oooof! Adaline tripped and lurched forward. One of the candy hearts popped off. Oh no, Adaline thought. She clutched the box and kept walking.
Whooosh! A gust of wind nearly tore the box from her arms and two gems fell off. Adaline bit her lip and sucked in her breath. Please let me make it, she silently begged.
Adaline finally arrived at school–her box would make it after all! She rounded the corner when–slam! She ran straight into her friend, Molly. The box tumbled out of Adaline’s arms.
Adaline couldn’t bear to look. It must be ruined now. Tears spilled down her cheeks.
She felt Molly’s hand on her shoulder. “I’m so sorry about your box.”
Adaline glanced down, expecting the worst. To her amazement, the box was fine. Molly picked it up and handed it to her gently.
“It’s beautiful,” she said.
Adaline let out a deep breath, smiled, and together, the girls carried the box into class for their Valentine’s Day celebration.
Sorry for the duplicate post! It didn’t appear to have worked the first time!
She was soooooo careful. Everything turned out okay.
ENTRY POSTED FOR SARAH
HEALING HEARTS
By Sarah (Sezza) Hetu
181 words
Valentine’s Day is Cookie Day! Today, Grandma and I will make maple shortbread hearts.
I zip to the kitchen. “Grandpa, where’s Grandma?”
“She’s okay, but she’s in the hospital for her ticker.”
My stomach flip-flops.
“Take heart, Sport; she’s as tough as a tiger.”
I’m not a doctor… but I can bake. “Let’s bring cookies to her!”
“As you wish.”
Flour?
Check.
Sugar?
Check.
Butter?
Check.
Maple syrup?
None?
But maple is Grandma’s favorite flavor!
I poke through the fridge.
Fake syrup?
Ew.
Molasses?
Yuck.
Maple sriracha?
Sweet!
I mix and roll.
Will Grandma be alright?
I mold and cut.
Grandpa paces.
Finally, there’s just enough trim left for one last heart. I slide the tray into the oven…and try not to bite my nails while I wait.
A sweet and spicy aroma fills the house. Grandpa wipes his eyes. “Those are sure to jump-start a heart.”
At the hospital, I hear Grandma’s laugh from the hallway.
“Hi Grandma! Happy Valentine’s Day! These are for you–secret recipe.”
She squeezes me. “My heart feels better already.”
My heart feels better, too.
Such a sweet story! I’m a complete sucker for a grandma/grandchild story every time.
Great story Sarah, I love how you captured the worry in the protagonist’s inner dialogue and how focused they are on helping Grandma. And such a relief at the end when both of their hearts feel better!
I love Grandpa in this “sure to jump-start a heart” – cute!
My heart feels better, too. Grandma’s going to be okay.
I like the kid-friendly description . . . ‘ticker.’ Clever.
Not So Perfect Valentines
By Rebekah Hoeft
214 words
Bink bounced on Babs’s bed.
“Babs! Wake up, Babs! It’s Valentine’s Day! Let’s gooooo!”
Squeezing her eyes shut tighter, Babs yawned. “Too early, Bink. Granny’s not expecting us yet.”
“But we have so much to do. Paper chains. Snowflakes with heart cutouts. Glittering Granny’s card. How will we get it done if we don’t start now? Like, now now?!”
Bink handed her sister scissors and paper. Bleary-eyed, Babs began snipping. Bink glittered the card and glued strips of pink paper together.
When they finished, Babs got ready. Bink paced nervously.
“Bink, what’s got you worried?”
Bink sighed. “The chain’s too short, the glitter is globby–
“–and my snowflake hearts are lopsided.” Babs interrupted.
“It’s not perfect. I wanted Granny to see how much we love her.”
Babs hugged Bink. “Granny loves us. We don’t need to be perfect. Let’s goooooo!”
Bink smiled sadly. They scampered over the river and through the woods to where Granny lived.
Granny was asleep, covered in glitter and paper scraps.
“Granny! Are you okay?”
Granny squeaked. “Oh dear, you’re here! I got up early to finish your cards and must have needed a nap. Bother! I wanted your valentines to be perfect but they’re not done. I’m sorry.” Bink smiled. ”Who needs perfect? We love you! Happy Valentine’s Day!”
Imperfect valentines are the best. Being together . . . even better.
ENTRY POSTED FOR RACHEL
Valentine’s Rules ( should be 214 words.)
by Rachel Schiller
It’s February, the shortest month of the year. Dave and Wren are at home in the den. Dave is the older brother. Wren takes all the tissues out of the box.”Stop it,” Dave shouts. Wren freezes, holding the soft rectangular tissue pile, and quickly throws them at his brother.”I need the box for school” Dave laughs as the tissues fall like monster snowflakes onto the floor, and says “that’s dumb, now look what you did.”
Wren cries and immediately Dave tries to take it back. “I’m sorry. Tell me more about what you need.”
“Do you know the Valentine’s Rules”, Wren asks, knowing he can remember since his teacher told them today and then they paired up with a friend and retold them for practice. He was paired with Timmy who had trouble remembering, but by the end they were both better pretty good.
“Rule 1. Valentine’s treasures can be big or small, but come from your heart.
Rule 2. To carry Valentines you need something ordinary that you make beautiful.
Rule 3. Include everyone in the fun.”
Dave’s parents often remind him that as a big brother, he has to be patient with Wren, so now he half listens about Valentine’s Day. Wren goes on about how the teacher said an empty tissue box is perfect. It has the perfect opening, is the perfect size, is easy to carry.
“What if mine is no good?!” Wren asks? “It’s pale yellow and reminds me of when I was sick with the stomach bug.”
Dave sees how serious Wren is and says,
“Your classroom is full of artsy stuff like markers. Draw rainbows, dogs and pirate flags. Don’t worry. Then on Valentine’s Day your box will be full!” Wren looks back at the flimsy box and tells him there’s no way the box can be special. Dave leaves the room, leaving the tissues on the floor, and leaving Wren to drop the tissue box, unconvinced. Wren thinks he will ask Mom to buy a nicer tissue box when she comes home from work. Ideally red with stripes, or maybe blue. Anything but yellow. Dave returns and hands Wren a Spiderman sticker.”Here. Hold onto this and no matter if you use gems, or ribbons or whatever, save room for Spidey and I promise it will be great.”
“Really!?” Wren grabs the sticker before Dave changes his mind and nods. Dave says, “Happy Early Valentine’s Day, now clean up before I get blamed.
Moon-eyed
By: Hannah Gordon
Moon-eyed: Adj, 1. Same as moon-blind. 2. Having eyes open, as from fright or wonder. 3. Kneeling. Kneeling on the window sill in Mommy’s please-don’t-Gracie-no-too-many-breakables-living-room. My knuckles white as I hold myself up, staring. He said he wouldn’t have to go again. Said over chocolate chip cookies, cut in half, and dunked in milk. A promise. He has his uniform on again, the one that makes him look scary. A strange car is parked by the mailbox. Mommy is trying not to cry. She’s holding the mailbox to keep from falling. I’m holding the sill to keep from falling. It’s love-day, but my heart hurts. Strange car pulls away. Not even a sweet, chocolate-coated goodbye. Chocolate chip cookies found later in the garbage, soggy from rotten milk.
Hannah, I am incredibly moved by your story that thrums with life. Such a creative and effective structure, with such tension and immediacy. Bravo!
Thanks Mona ! 🙂
Allergic to Love?
Roses make me sneezy.
Chocolate makes me queasy.
Pink makes me wheezy.
Could I be… allergic to love?
Candy makes me jumpy.
Poems make me bumpy.
Kisses make me lumpy.
I suspect I’m allergic to love.
Gushing and blushing,
Mooning and swooning,
Syrupy sighs and goo-goo eyes –
No surprise I’ve got hives!
Yup, I’m allergic to love.
On my desk is a card in blue, green, and gold.
No crimson, no pink, okay I’m sold!
No flower, no poem, no heart to be seen.
Just a simple, “I think you’re keen.”
I know I’m in love.
thanks for voicing the not-so-sentimental feelings about pink hearts, etc!
My favorite line:
Syrupy sighs and goo-goo eyes
CARDS OF CONCERN
by Mike Flowers
166 words
There’s no need to worry, I’m sure I’ll get cards.
A couple, “I love yous”? At least, “Kind regards”?
My class won’t forget me on Valentine’s Day.
They’ll pile the cards high. I’ll grab them and say:
“I thank you dear classmates! These cards are so cool!
I feel like the luckiest kid in the school!”
But what if there aren’t cards? No chocolates, or treats?
No need for my speech that lifts butts out of seats?
No standing ovation or raucous applause?
And what if the cards I made them get guffaws?
They might think I used too much glitter this year.
I could run back home, but it’s too late. I’m here.
I enter the classroom…No cards in my spot…
“NOOOO!” I wail. “I was right, they forgot!”
I fall to the ground. “What a Valentine’s Day!
What’s that, Mrs. Hart? It’s tomorrow you say?”
My class helps me up. They love me! How cool!
I feel like the luckiest kid in the school.
I felt every moment of his worry!
Poor kid. He’ll be pleasantly surprised tomorrow!
This made me giggle! Funny enough, my daughter has Valentine’s Day off school, so they really did exchange Valentines on the 13th!
Well done, sir! Perfect rhyme and rhythm and you nailed both Valentines and worry!
A Very Junky Valentine
by Dominic Plavny (dplavny@gmail.com)
214 Words
OH NO! I forgot Mom’s Valentine’s gift!
It’s too late for flowers or chocolate!
Ok, let me think. I’ll have to grab some stuff from my room. Good thing when I “clean” it just means stuffing things under my bed.
She’s going to hate it!
Here’s a ticket stub from when we saw her favorite movie. It’s still butter stained from when we laughed so hard I spilled the popcorn.
Here’s a picture I drew for her when she came back from the doctor. I forgot to give it to her because she was so tired.
This is all just junk. She’s going to hate it!
Here’s the perfect seashell we spent all day looking for at the beach. She didn’t get to tan or swim or relax that day.
And I guess this old matching shirt we wore to my first ballgame will have to do. It’s too small now, anyway.
Here’s the blue ribbon from my science fair. We worked on it for weeks and ruined a few tablecloths too.
Oh no, she’s home. This is a disaster. She’s going to hate it!
Hi Mom… Happy Valentine’s Day. Sorry, all I got you was this box of junk.
Don’t cry! I knew it! You hate it!
No sweetie, I absolutely love it!
Brilliant. Probably her favorite gift ever!
V is for Vulture, NOT Valentine
Written By: Rebekah Reaves
(211 words)
Victor had a big problem. Valentine’s Day was here, and that could only mean one thing – V would stand for Valentine instead of Vulture, and he would be forgotten.
Victor understood why everyone loved Valentine. He was the perfect shade of pink and always carried chocolates and love notes.
And, Victor…well, he ate dead things, which didn’t exactly make him the cool kid in class.
Still, starting with the letter V made Victor feel special.
“What if Valentine’s Day turns into every day and I turn into nothing?” Victor worried.
Then he made a plan on how to make Valentine disappear – he was going to eat him.
Eating Valentine was harder than he thought. Victor tried everything to drown out Valentine’s sweetness.
He tried wrapping him up in a roadkill taco.
He tried squirting him with some dirty ditch water.
He even tried giving him a maggot bath.
Nothing worked. Victor worried that this was the end.
Then Valentine piped up. “You don’t need to eat me, you know. There’s plenty of our letter to go around.”
“Really?”
“Of course. Friendship is what Valentines are all about.”
And just like that, Vulture and Valentine became BFFs, and everything was perfect…
Until the new kid arrived. “Hi, I’m Violin. Want to play?”
Hahaha! Original and cute.
Nice work, Rebekah. Victor is a fun character and the story is original. I enjoyed it.
Hahaha . . . I wasn’t expecting that funny ending.
IT TAKES ALL KINDS
By Webb Smith
(210 words)
“Don’t worry, Peanut. It’s going to be great.”
‘Peanut’ wasn’t so sure.
“I won’t know anybody,” he mumbled to his mom.
“You’ll make new friends.”
“What if they don’t like me?”
“They’re gonna love you.”
“What if I don’t fit in?”
“You will.”
“But I’m different.”
“Our differences make life special. You’ll see. Now, hurry along before you’re late.”
Peanut shuffled inside. It was crowded and loud and chaotic.
Everyone was hustling and bustling.
A tall man barked directions, “Find your assigned seat!”
He pointed at a kid, “That’s not your seat! Move over three spaces!”
He snapped at another, “Back row, on the right!”
And another, “Halfway down, in the middle!”
Suddenly, he turned to Peanut, “Who are you?”
“I’m a cashew cluster.”
The man boomed, “Welcome to the Valentine Box of Assorted Chocolates! You’ll be sitting between orange cream and dark fudge!”
Peanut hopped into his seat. It was a perfect fit.
Orange cream smiled widely, “Hi! My name’s Fluff. You look delicious!”
“Thanks,” replied Peanut, and he quickly made friends with caramel, coconut, toffee, truffle, and fudge. They were light, dark, swirled, square, round, and even tin foiled.
Everybody was so different! It was incredible! Peanut’s mom was right – Variety truly is the spice of life.
Peanut must’ve made it into the Whitman’s Sampler! I hope his mom prepared him for what comes next… CHOMP! Delicious!
Hilarious! The sequel’s a tale of horror.
A cashew cluster named Peanut! I love it!
First day in the chocolate box, I love it!
What a creative story! Love it.
Thanks PJ!
MADE WITH LOVE
By Webb Smith
(208 words)
Andy sat in the school cafeteria eating his favorite food in the world — macaroni.
His good buddy Thomas plopped down beside him, “Hey, Andy. What’d you get Kate for Valentine’s Day?”
Andy opened a small box, “It’s a bracelet… I made it from the tabs of orange soda cans.”
Thomas frowned, “You made a bracelet out of trash? You can’t give her that.”
“But she loves orange soda,” explained Andy.
“Well, I like candy bars, but I don’t want someone to give me the wrapper. Why didn’t you get her something normal – like a flower or a card that plays music?”
“Because she really likes orange soda.”
Thomas just laughed, and Andy started to panic –
“What have I done?
What if she hates it?
What if she laughs?
What if she cries?
What should I do?”
Thomas shrugged, “Maybe she didn’t come to school today.”
Suddenly, Andy heard a familiar voice, “Happy Valentine’s Day.”
He turned around. It was Kate.
Andy hid his present as Kate handed him a small package, “This is for you.”
Andy slowly opened it to find… a bracelet… made from dried macaroni noodles.
“It’s perfect,” he said.
Andy smiled wide as he offered Kate his own, one-of-a-kind gift –
“Happy Valentine’s Day.”
Aw! A prefect match!
Sweet! This really captures the angst of exchanging Valentine’s in school in such a fun way. Great job!
Sweet. Nice humor, too. Great story arc.
Sweet Teeth
By Amber A. Novak
212 words
Call it intuition, call it a scheduled appointment, but I’d been expecting the abduction from school.
Moments after the classroom “exchange,” with barely enough time to grab my bag full of precious loot, I was whisked through the front office and placed in the enemy agent’s vehicle, AKA “Mom’s car.”
In the backseat, I looked inside my goodie bag.
Time was short.
Would I get another chance?
I panicked.
Then shoved as much candy into my mouth as I could!
Crunchy.
Melty.
Chewy.
Gooey.
And above all . . . Sweet.
So, so sweet.
A sugar rush coursed through my veins.
Upon arrival, they took me straight back.
Give me strength to endure, I asked my over-sugared body.
White coat and headlamp on, terrifying tools in hand, my nemesis beckoned me to the reclining chair.
There was nowhere to run.
Anxious as I was, I sat willingly, playing it cool.
Bright light blinded me as she leaned down, invading my personal space, stretching the corners of my mouth wide, and then . . .
“WHAT did you EAT?” she cried out.
Around the equipment in my mouth I mumbled details of chocolates, gummies, caramels, sours, cookies, and suckers.
“And I’d do it again!” I garbled.
She leaned back and sighed, “Next year, I’m closing shop on Valentine’s Day.”
This made me giggle! So clever! This seems like a real occupational hazard…
Hahaha! Well done . . . from the title . . . to the ending.
Excellent. I’d love to see this kid on Halloween.
Hahaha! Original and cute.
Quite clever.
A Worrisome Mission
Nancy Ferguson
208 words
“Make her smile Valentine! Give her these sparkly kisses and hugs!’
Valentine was tucked into the red envelope, ready for the mail.
“Off you go to Aunt Jane’s. Don’t forget your mission!”
Red wondered, How? What if I get lost? I’m all alone…
The blue box was dark and crowded.
What if I get crushed?
Yikes!
Dumped into a cloth bag and tossed into a truck!
I’ll never get to Aunt Jane’s this way.
Red spied a purple envelope.
“Are you a valentine?”
“Yes! Isn’t this fun?”
Red wasn’t sure. “I’m supposed to give Aunt Jane hugs and kisses.”
Purple laughed, “Me, too! But, to Aunt Joan!”
I’m not alone here.
SORTING MACHINE!!!
WHEW!
Purple and Red landed in the same box.
In the same Post Office.
In the same slot.
This has been fun.
The next day Red and Purple were delivered.
“Oh look, Valentines!”
Jane laughed when she opened the red envelope.
“Look, Joan, glitter and a picture of me with Sally. All those hugs and kisses!”
She couldn’t stop grinning.
Joan opened her purple envelope.
“Look at mine, no glitter, but confetti hearts!”
She laughed and hugged Jane.
Valentine breathed.
Yes, I completed the mission and made a friend!
No worries.
The sorting machine made me smile . . . a great big smile!
What a lovely expression of friendship, Eleanor! The world can use more kindnesses like this right now.
Please Make it Home
Mabel stares at the door, twisting the hem of her dress around and around and around her finger.
“Come on, sweetheart,” Mama says. “It’s time for bed.”
“But I haven’t wished him Happy Valentine’s Day!”
“Maybe he’ll make it home before you fall asleep.”
When Mabel’s in the bath, she asks Mama three times to go check the door. Mama says she has to stay in the bathroom. Mabel doesn’t believe her. She keeps washing and washing and washing until Mama says bathtime is done.
When Mabel brushes her teeth, she watches the stairs through the mirror. She keeps brushing and brushing and brushing until Mama makes her stop.
When Mabel gets to her bedroom, she picks the longest bedtime book she can find. She asks for another and another and another until Mama says no more.
Mama tucks Mabel into bed. “You can wish him Happy Valentine’s Day tomorrow.”
“It’s not the same,” Mabel says, wiping tears from her eyes.
“I know. Sorry, lovebug.”
But then Mabel hears the door open…
…hears footsteps up the stairs, and…
“Meow!”
Mabel pulls Pickles into a big hug.
“Happy Valentine’s Day to you, too.”
That cat is LOVED!
What a lovely expression of friendship, Eleanor! The world can use more kindnesses like this right now.
What a lovely expression of friendship, Eleanor! The world can use more kindnesses like this right now.
(I’ve tried to leave this comment 3 times, but on my screen, it keeps showing up on someone else’s story….so apologies if it IS showing up here and I just can’t see it.) 😂
Hi Nancy,
I don’t know why my comments for another story keep posting to yours, but I just wanted to say I loved your unique perspective of the Valentine’s POV. Very clever with a lovely ending!
ENTRY POSTED FOR JAMIE
A Valentine For All
By Jamie Kravetz
Word Count 213
Molly skipped excitedly to her classroom with her valentines cards tightly in her hand. Miss Heartfield gathered everyone on the carpet for a special announcement.
“Boys and girls, this is Sarah. She is a new student who will be joining us,” explained Miss Heartfield.
After the announcement, Miss Heartfield told them that valentines would be handed out after recess.
A feeling of worry popped into Molly’s head. She didn’t have a valentine for Sarah! This was terrible!
Before Molly knew it, it was time for recess. Normally Molly loved recess, but she was worried about Sarah not getting a valentine.
Molly saw Sarah standing alone looking nervous. Molly walked over to Sarah. “Hi! I’m Molly. Would you like to play together at recess?”
“Yes,” Sarah replied.
They had so much fun! Molly forgot about her Valentine’s Day worry.
Until the whistle blew.
The children followed the teachers inside. After putting their coats away, Miss Heartfield said, “Time to deliver your valentines.”
Molly delivered hers. She couldn’t look at Sarah.
Molly got back to her seat and found a drawing of two girls going down the slide. It said, “Happy Valentine’s Day from Sarah.”
Molly looked up and saw Sarah was smiling. She had given Sarah the best valentine of all, a new friend.
Precious!
Thank you Susanna. This is always so much fun!
DON’T WORRY ABOUT THE WRONG THINGS
By Linda Staszak 210 words
The Valentine’s Day display at school was mostly boring—lots of heart-shaped stuff.
But Cupid’s bow and arrow dared me to touch them.
So—I snuck inside from recess to take another look.
Mom said she worries ahead of time so she’s ready for anything. I thought I’d try that.
Okay, what would happen if I shot the arrow toward Mr. Pilcher’s desk?
It might mess up his piles of papers, and I’d be in a lot of trouble.
Toward the window? If it hit the window, everybody’d know was in here—more trouble.
Toward the bookshelves? If it accidentally hit Madeleine’s desk, she’d think I liked her—eeew!
This ‘worrying ahead of time’ was pretty good—it was keeping me out of trouble.
Then I knew—I’d shoot it toward the door.
I picked up the bow, put the arrow in place, pulled ba-a-a-ck—twaaannggg…
Uh-oh—the door opened.
Mr. Pilcher’s face appeared.
Thwopp! The arrow hit right in the middle of his forehead.
That suction cup sure stuck tight.
And then I went to the principal’s office. Again.
Mr. Pilcher said he hoped I learned something from this. And I have.
I’ve learned I need to worry better.
You know, don’t worry about the wrong things, like Madeleine.
Hahaha!
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for reading.
Great line: Mom said she worries ahead of time so she’s ready for anything. I enjoyed this . . . itchy fingers are just like a kid.
The Night Guard, A Sweet Tooth, and Love’s Unbreakable Bond
By Amy Martinez
213 Words
Candy and Molar were in love.
Sweet, soft, and colorful, Candy was drawn to Molar’s strong exterior.
They bonded at the movies, concession stands, and the gas station on 27th.
Soon, Candy realized that underneath Molar’s hard surface, he was sensitive, a
real sweet tooth.
She melted.
Nothing could keep them apart.
Except for Molar’s night guards, Brush and Floss.
They knew Molar was a pillar in the community, and cared about his future.
Fearing Candy would make Molar soft, slowing the daily grind, they attempted
to remove her.
Candy tried to hide in hard to reach places, but she didn’t want to cause a
wedge between Molar and his friends. They’d always been close. Instead, she
laid low as the night guard circled, clinging to Molar’s side and hoping to go
unnoticed.
On Valentine’s Day, they planned their escape.
Candy’s friends helped.
Arriving in heart shaped boxes, they each found a special tooth and bonded.
That night, the guards were shocked to find sugary cement everywhere.
Brush cleaned frantically, scrubbing and pushing.
Floss polished desperately, digging and pulling.
Under pressure, Molar and Candy wiggled and twisted until…
Pop!
They were uprooted.
Sticking together they danced through the air.
Securely attached they landed,
Molar rooted in Candy’s embrace.
Nothing could keep them apart.
I was smiling the whole time I read this! Such a clever story filled with (sweet) puns. Love it!
Thanks! I had a blast writing it!
I’m typically terrified of all things dentist related, but writing this story infused some levity into the topic. Hopefully, it will help reframe my thinking the next time I go to the dentist. Wouldn’t it be great if my anxiety was replaced by outlandish teeth puns? 🙂
Such vivid visuals. Kinda made me want a candy.
Thanks! It was so fun to write!
Heartfelt by S. J. Barratt (212 words)
I need a new one. With a better pump. But nobody explains how I will get one. Where will it come from?
I’m not in school. Waiting in the hospital. They say I’m top of the list. Glad to be top of something at last! But how will they replace it? My mind is full of question marks. But when I voice them, my mom’s eyes fill with tears. My dad lurks in the corridors, talking to doctors. When I ask what they say, he just tells me, ‘Don’t worry’. But I do.
The doors fly open. Nurses rush in. I’m to be prepped. A nurse calls my parents. Today is the big day. Someone has given me theirs.
Does this mean I will jump and run again? Play basketball? Will it work? Or will I stay in hospital even longer? How can I start to say thank you?
‘From the bottom of my heart … and yours.’
A nurse smiles as I enter the operating room. ‘Did you know it’s Valentine’s Day today?’
I nod, already speaking to my new heart. ‘Thank you for your Valentine gift. You’ll always have a special place in my heart. I promise I won’t let you down. I will run and jump for both of us.’
Touching.
ENTRY POSTED FOR SAMANTHA
Furry Worries in Wood’s Hollow
By Samantha Cora
214 words
Shirley Squirrel swelled with love when her hairless children were born. She imagined how one day they would play games in the treetops and split acorn snacks.
As time went on, Shirley wasn’t so sure that their personalities matched their names.
Fuzzy Wuzzy chased creatures twice his size. Not so cuddly.
Flopsy Wopsy scolded anyone who didn’t follow his strict routines. Not so go-with-the-flow.
The brothers shared a nest at night but usually spent their days alone.
Shirley worried her family was growing apart. So, on February 14th, she scratched a note into a heart-shaped piece of bark by their tree:
F.W.
Wood’s Hollow Dance
6 p.m.
When the brothers arrived home, they squabbled over who the note was meant for and who the secret admirer could be.
“Let’s pick sticks to see who should go,” declared Fuzzy Wuzzy.
“Fine! Hurry up,” grumbled Flopsy Wopsy. “Maybe Mama can hold them for us. Where is she, anyway?”
The brothers exchanged anxious glances and quickly scrambled to Wood’s Hollow. Together.
“Mama! Where are you?” they yelled.
Suddenly, they spotted a familiar furry tail in the crowd and squeaked a sigh of relief.
“Hello boys! I’m sure glad you got my note,” Shirley winked.
“May we have this dance, Mama?”
“Anything for my sweet Valentines.”
I loved your use of some familiar names. As a mom and grandmom, I liked to see that the mom in your story was the one with a solution.
Judy
I adore the name ‘Woods Hollow.’
The visual of the carving in the tree is sweet.