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 
With one week left till Valentine’s Day, Lena fretted and frowned. She had to find the perfect present for Mama.
On Saturday, she tried to get her a bunny. But they all ran away.
On Sunday, she tried to pick her a bouquet. “Stop taking my flowers!” The neighbor yelled.
On Monday, she tried to help clean the kitchen. Clang! Clatter! Crash! went the dishes. Mama sighed and got the broom.
On Tuesday, she took some chocolates home from school – but somehow, they ended up in her belly.
On Wednesday, she painted a picture – lots of red and pink! She didn’t know why Mama wasn’t happy when she saw the pretty wall.
On Thursday, Lena tried making Mama a swimming pool. But instead of doing laps, Mama rushed to drain the bathtub.
On Friday at school, Lena’s class made Valentines. Finally! The perfect present. Lena put hers in her backpack. But when she got off the bus, she realized – oh no! she’d forgotten to zip it, and The Valentine was gone.
“Wait! Come back!” she yelled. But the bus only sped away.
“What’s wrong, Lena?” Mama asked.
Lena gave her a hug. Mama smiled. “That’s the best present of all.”
Title: The Perfect Present
201 words
I really like your scenarios. The days of the week are nice, too.
From The Heart
Morna Gersho
210 words
“Wanna borrow my markers, Alfie?” His best friend Cruz asked. Mrs. Allen’s student teacher, Miss Terry had just given them instructions on how to make a surprise valentine for their teacher, Mrs. Allen.
His brows knitted together as he opened his desk. Alfie stunk at art. He started his valentine for Mrs. Allen.
“Those torn edges are cool!” Cruz admired.
Alfie hung his head. His had cut them so carefully.
Marissa smiled, “I like that white paint design, Alfie.”
Alfie bit his lip. That wasn’t white paint! That was glue.
Even Miss Terry had to join in.
“Oooh, abstract art! I love it!”
He didn’t even know what abstract art was. That was supposed to be Mrs. Allen’s smiling face.
Miss Terry crouched down, and whispered.
“Alfred, remember what I said? If it’s from your heart that’s all that matters.”
As he held the spikey, wet valentine and the glue oozed down the side of his hand he thought for one second of throwing it away. He was sure no one would even notice.
All of a sudden, he thought of Mrs. Allen’s smile.
Alfie wiped his eyes and started coloring again slowly.
He shook some glitter. He would need to hurry if he was going to finish before recess.
Morna, Alfie has my heart!
Alfie, gotta love him. Sweet kid.
A LITTLE FAIRY DUST ALWAYS HELPS
By Linda Staszak 214 words
A prickly pile of arrows blocked Cupid’s door, but the leprechauns climbed to the top.
“We’re here to help with the arrows,” they called.
But no one answered—Cupid was gone.
They grabbed their Super-Duper-Magical-Kingdom-Communicator and jabbed ‘EMERGENCY’.
Within moments, everyone arrived.
The Tooth Fairy’s wings fluttered. “The Valentine’s Day arrows are here, but where’s Cupid?”
“We usually help him polish,” said the leprechauns.
“Maybe he’s checking on flowers?” suggested Easter Bunny.
“Or chocolate hearts?” said Sandman.
Fairy Godmother’s eyes widened. “He wouldn’t miss Valentine’s Day. Where is he?”
“Don’t worry—we’ll find him,” said the elves, and everyone dashed away to search.
Before long, the Communicators buzzed.
Cupid was by Rainbow Falls, pacing and muttering…
“People are sad and worried this year. They need more than just someone to love. It’s too much for me.”
Jack Frost dropped his icicles. “I know! North Pole elves—you’re on vacation. And there’s Bunny and the fairies and me and…”
The leprechauns did a little jig. “Great idea! We’ll ALL help.”
Fairy Godmother glowed. “We can’t find love for everyone, but it’s a start—it’ll spread!”
Everyone grabbed arrows.
Cupid’s face scrunched. “Ummmm—your aim might not be so good…”
Whoooossshhh! The air shimmered.
Fairy Godmother giggled. “No more worries—a little fairy dust always helps!”
You got so many characters in there in so few words. Well done. Cute story.
Hi Eleanor, I’ve tried commenting 4 times now, but it keeps posting to a different story, so just wanted to try one last time! I love this gesture of friendship and kindness — one that is all the more important these days.
CLARISSA COUNTPOLIS (200 words)
by: Ana Kelly
Clarissa Countpolis owned oodles of poodles,
who pranced right behind her with boxes of noodles.
They planned a grand dinner—”Spaghetti for all!”
A Valentine’s custom, that hosted a ball.
Clarissa was worried— more so than years past—
since mean wizard Bixby was now out at last.
He didn’t like children. Don’t mention their dogs.
He hid in the murk with his army of frogs.
They stood at attention; they knew what to do.
Rush in and snag children and their poodles too.
Clarissa Countpolis smashed garlic and cloves
While worried that frogs would invade them in droves.
She studied some magic to cast on her own
Collected some rocks and a bristly bone.
The dinner was set, the ballroom shone bright
As Valentine’s guest prepared for the night.
The croaks were near-by, the poodles stood still
while potions were tied to a wind-driven mill.
The air filled with hearts, the frogs jigged a dance
She’d cast a spell of love and broken the trance.
Mean wizard Bixby delayed by the door
Stopped cold in his tracks by the wafting amore.
He danced a jig too and slurped up the noodles
That Clarissa had made with her oodles of poodles.
So cute and funny. The rhyme makes it fun to read. Great imagination.
Thank you, Julia!! 🙂
Love this: wafting amore
Thanks, Jill… you made it to the end 🤣
The layers in your story feel real for a kid under pressure and wanting to fit in/keep up with others…nice job creating tension that builds. Great idea…finding heart shaped rocks for Valentine’s Day! The ending is a sweet surprise and joyful.
The Missing Teddy Bear
Poor Darcy’s teddy bear was lost.
(His name was Michael Bentley Growl.)
Where was the bear? Oh where? Oh where?
She searched and hunted, on the prowl.
*
Well, Mikey (as she called him so) –
was nowhere (nowhere!) to be found.
Oh where? Oh where? Where was the bear?
She asked her dad to look around.
*
Dad joined the chase for Mikey Bear
who managed to stay out of sight.
Where was the bear? Oh where? Oh where?
Then, Dad said, “It will be all right.”
*
“So do not worry, Darcy dear.
We’ll find him or…we’ll get another.”
Oh where? Oh where? Where was the bear?
Darcy went to find her mother.
*
“Mommy! Mommy! Where is Mikey?”
She wailed a plaintive cry.
“Where is my bear? Oh where? Oh where?”
So, Darcy’s mom said, “Dry your eye.
*
“You got him very dirty, Darce.
I washed him since he was quite foul.
Oh where? Know where? There is your bear!
He’s here, now clean, inside this towel.”
*
Then, Darcy’s mom gave her the bear.
His fur did gleam, and he smelled good.
“Thanks for my bear with shampooed hair!
We found him, as I knew we would!”
*
Whew!
###
Nose need to worry.
By Samantha Howard-Els
206
“I don’t know where my sneezer flew,
it may have landed near to you.”
“The flowers make me sneeze you see,
I’m oh so worried as can be.”
“But when I sneezed my eyes shut tight,
and so it flew off out of sight.”
“I really am so very sorry,
could we laugh and find this jolly?”
“I bought these flowers just for you,
maybe I need some tissues too.”
Oh dear here comes another sneeze,
my nose can make a GIANT breeze.
It thunders out at such high speed,
I’m bent in half hands on my knees.
My eyes go wide my heart beats fast,
thank goodness it lands on the grass.
I look at you, you look at me,
we’re laughing uncontrollably!
You walk towards me hand stretched out,
a tissue offered wipes all doubt.
“It’s pink” I say with great surprise,
you smile at me and bat your eyes.
“Well yes” you say, “the tissues pink,
it suits today don’t you think?”
I pass the flowers from my hand,
my nose starts twitching where I stand.
My eyes go wide with great alarm,
but this time sneezes do no harm.
The tissues keep the sneeze at bay,
oh what a joyous Valentine’s Day.
Cute title. Next year . . . chocolates.
Sweet Message Dilemma by Joan Leotta 192 words
Mom bought Jeanie a set of cards and a bag of chocolate hearts to pass out to her classmates at the fourth grade Valentine party.
Jeanie thanked her Mom quietly.
“Jeanie, don’t you like these?”
“Mom, I was hoping you would buy those little candy message hearts.”
“I’m sorry—but when you tape down the chocolate hearts why don’t you put a little slip of paper under each one with a message all your own—more personal.”
Jeanie smiled. “I like that , Mom.”
An hour later, Jeanie had labeled all the envelopes, signed all the cards and was getting ready to write the messages to go under the hearts.
“Mom, I don’t know what to say! I don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings by making some think I like them more than others.”
Mom nodded.” I understand.” Mom and Jeanie laughed and talked and finally decided what to write. Mom typed up thin paper message slips to go under each chocolate heart.
The next day, every one of Jeanie’s friends, opened their cards from her and found this message:
“I’m thankful you are my Valentine today and my friend, every day.”
Such a heartwarming story and solution to the “Sweet Message Dilemma”!
Sweet . . . and a nice message.
I think my entry went through this year! YAY! Thanks for doing this –always a fun exercise. Joan
Joan Leotta Author, Story Performer “Encouraging words through Pen and Performance” Folk, Fairy, and Personal Tales of friendship, kindness, food, family, and strong women. Now also Presenting Author visits by Louisa May Alcott *As writer, Nominated for Pushcart, Best of Net, Best of Micro fiction, **Western Peacemaker Award * *Awardee in Presswomen, Robert Frost, Silver Arts, Dancing Poetry* *”Feathers on Stone” *poetry chapbook available from me and at https://mainstreetragbookstore.com/product/feathers-on-stone-joan-leotta/
Other Joan Leotta Books Languid Lusciousness with Lemon, Finishing Line Press (Amazon) Morning by Morning and Dancing Under the Moon, two free mini-chapbooks are at https://www.origamipoems.com/poets/257-joan-leotta *For information on my four out of print novels, collection of short stories and four children’s picture books, contact me at this email *
Worried by Greg Beatty 211 words
“Jeffrey! Wake up! Michelle’s not in her bed.”
Jeffrey sat up, his hair a moist porcupine. “Where is she?”
“I don’t know,” Cora said. “That’s why I woke you. She’s been acting weird all day.”
Jeffrey pulled on swim trunks and one slipper and shuffled off to look for their daughter.
“I told you she wasn’t in her bed!”
“I know,” Jeffrey said. “But she took her nap on the floor with the dog yesterday, so I thought…nope. When did she start acting weird?”
“This morning. She was all upset Browndog wouldn’t take a treat.”
“Hmm.” Jeffrey stumbled downstairs to the dog’s crate.
“Browndog’s gone too,” he said.
“And at dinner, she was upset because he didn’t eat his kibble.”
The parents looked over. The kibble was still there. “And it’s freezing in here!” Cora said.
“Maybe…”
Jeffrey lurched to the back door. It stood open. He looked outside, then motioned to his wife.
Cora leaned out the door beside him. They watched their daughter drape a blanket on Browndog while he threw up. Noisily.
“Oh.”
“Yeah.”
“I’ll…” Cora grabbed another blanket and a towel, and headed out into the night.
“Honey?”
Michelle finally noticed her parents.
“Come inside. We’ll take Browndog to the vet in the morning.”
And they did.
ENTRY POSTED FOR ISABEL
Skeptical V-Day
Author: Isabel Cruz Rodriguez
Word Count: 214
Skeptical Miss Skeptical
Worked on her Valentine
Cut, paste and decorate
To message: “Please Be Mine.”
She knows today is special
It comes just once a year
But could this time be different
Will real romance be near?
While I am home spying
Real hard to try to find
The perfect gift for my
Skeptical Valentine.
I want this special Day
To get all my attention
A joyful, perfect Valentine
And V-Day celebration.
I search around real hard
So sure it is acceptable
To hold the buds I picked
I scrub a cool receptacle.
We choose a spot close by
The park where we will meet
The one with trees and flowers
And blooms that are so sweet.
I wash my hair, comb it neat
Dab on my Dad’s cologne
Iron creases from my shirt
The wrinkles are all gone.
Quickly heading to the park
So proud of my cool duds
The vase firmly in my hands
So I won’t spill the buds.
Skeptical Miss Skeptical
Not easy to convince
So pretty on the park bench
Wondering if I’d commit.
“Hello, dear Miss Skeptical,
I love you” then – I winced.
Just then she plants one big kiss
And I was then convinced.
For me and for Miss Skeptical
This V-Day will be bliss!
Love all the things he does to convince his ‘Miss Skeptical.’ Good job!
Awww… love is so sweet, even for Miss Skeptical!
Wow, Isabel! I love it!
I loved it, he won her heart–Ms. Skeptical is skeptical no more!
Love the sound of “Skeptical Miss Skeptical.” Sounds also like Miss Skeptical is less doubtful this Valentine’s Day!
My favorite stanza:
I wash my hair, comb it neat
Dab on my Dad’s cologne
Iron creases from my shirt
The wrinkles are all gone.
ENTRY POSTED FOR JAMIE
Valentines For Everyone
By Jamie Kravetz
Word count 159
Valentine’s Day is here! Valentine’s Day is here!
A day to bring everyone lots of cheer!
I need to make a list
To help me make sure no one is missed.
Mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, and my friend.
This list keeps growing. I don’t think it will ever end.
Cards for classmates. Cards for teachers. Cards for pets.
This isn’t the longest this list gets.
As it grows and grows
My valentine card making slows.
As my hands tire from card making,
I realize just how long it’s taking.
What if my hand turns blue?
Or becomes stuck to the cards like glue?
What if I run out of ink?
Should I make them all the color pink?
It’s true there is so much that could go wrong.
But then I remember what my granny told me ,and it keeps me going strong.
Fuzzy, Furry,
Scaly, Slimy
Young, old
Near, far
Small, or tall,
Valentine’s Day is for all.
I had to giggle (and was impressed) . . . the dog was in the list of beings to not forget. Can’t say I ever thought of that.
ENTRY POSTED FOR SUSAN
The Almost-Perfect Valentine
By Susan Jakubowski
152 Words
Store-bought greetings
can be nice,
homemade cards are
half the price.
I’m creative,
It’s not hard,
to make a cheerful
friendship card.
Perfect timing –
Valentine’s Day!
I’ll begin
without delay.
Paper, cardstock,
which folds best?
Crumpled edges
make me stressed.
Markers, crayons,
staple, glue?
I’m unsure of
what to do.
Snipping, trimming,
cut and paste
starting over-
what a waste!
Stencil, pencil,
paint or ink-
Someone, tell me
what to think!
Paper’s wrinkled,
tape won’t stay,
one more card
to throw away!
I’ll try ribbon,
twine and beads.
Feathers might be
what it needs.
Sprayed some glitter,
now it’s wet.
Weeks of drying,
I’m upset!
When it’s ready,
I’ll take time
to write a verse
in perfect rhyme.
Searching, looking,
in distress-
I’ve forgotten
your address!
Found it! Sealed it!
Did my best.
Sent it off
with one request.
When you read it,
will you try,
to disregard
it’s now July?
I LOVE THIS!
Dear Valentine’s Day
By Liz Godfrey
209 words
Dear Valentine’s Day,
I’m excited to celebrate with you, share hearts, cutout cookies, and flowers.
I want to share your day with EVERYONE!
Everyone gets a heart on your day!
Do you think love and kindness can be everywhere, all at once?
I’m worried that some people will feel empty.
I know! I’ll make a list of everyone who gets a heart . . .
Everyone in my family, classroom, school, neighborhood, town, state, nation, country . . .
Uh-oh! That’s a lot to think about!
What if I make a smaller list of people?
My family and classroom get hearts on your day!
Something for everyone, like . . .
Heart-shaped sugar cookies topped in icing and sprinkles,
cutout hearts with messages like “You Rock” or “Let’s be Friends,”
or sweet-smelling daisies, carnations, and roses from flower shops!
I can’t do all that! That’s too many cookies, cards, and flowers.
How about one very special thing for my list of Valentines?
I have everything I need to decorate heart cards, plus envelopes to deliver love and friendship for all.
Do you think love and kindness can be everywhere, all at once?
I do!
Because EVERYONE is sharing love in their own unique way on Valentine’s Day!
Love, Me
What a great idea . . . a letter to Valentine.
Thank you, Jill! Good luck with the contest!
Just Cute Won’t Do
Lanie’s sister was brand new.
Her mommy said
she’d know what to do.
She sang her songs
and bent down low
to make silly faces
and watch her grow.
Lanie loved her sister so much.
She wanted Valentine’s Day
to have a special touch.
Lanie used
paper and glue,
scissors and sparkles
and ribbon too.
Her card was cute.
But just cute won’t do.
It had to be special,
Beyond that, no clue.
Lanie’s face
scrunched up with worry.
She tried to think
but her thoughts were all blurry.
A statue, that’s it!
That would be best.
Lanie rolled and cut
and molded and pressed.
Her statue was cute.
But just cute won’t do.
It had to be special.
Beyond that, no clue.
Lanie’s fingers
drummed the table.
She must get this right.
But… was she able?
A sweet cookie treat
put her skills to the test.
She mixed up the dough
but her worry was a pest.
Her cookie was cute.
But just cute won’t do.
It had to be special.
Beyond that, no clue.
As Lanie worried
about all she had done
she thought to herself,
“This was actually fun!”
She’ll know that I love her.
That can’t be beat!
Lanie told her worry to take off!
Valentine’s Day was complete.
Erin, such a sweet Valentine story of sisterly love!
Thank you Mona!
Lanie’s fingers
drummed the table.
I felt her worry!
I’m so glad! Thanks Jill!
Just Enough
By Jessica Evans
Word Count: 214
Red stared down at the white construction paper reluctantly. What if he couldn’t do this?
First it was the red tulips for Mom’s Mother’s Day card. Then it was fireworks for the Fourth of July. By Christmas, Red was exhausted from all the pictures of Santa. Of course, there was the time in October when Orange went on vacation and Red had to team up with Yellow to create a pumpkin patch.
Red was tired. Utterly drained. He was worn down to a nub.
Now a huge stack of paper sat in front of Red. Completely blank. Waiting to be colored into cards for school tomorrow. He didn’t know if he had it in him. He didn’t want to fail either. What if he did?
Red squeezed his eyes shut. He tried making hearts on the page. It was not going well.
“Mom! My red crayon isn’t working! I’ve used it too much,” a little voice said sadly.
Red couldn’t believe this was happening.
“No problem,” a woman replied. “Try it like this instead, honey.”
With that, she peeled off Red’s wrapper and turned him onto his side. Red moved back and forth easily, coloring in the heart. This would work! He smiled as he created a pile of cards perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Go Red!
I forgot about that little trick!
Teddy’s Gift of Art
by Kimberly Zhuo
word count 214
Teddy needed to help cheer Ms. Yee up because she’s sick.
It’ll make her happy to see my painting because she liked teaching it to me!
Teddy painted countless hearts, but his hearts were too lopsided or weird looking. He studied videos to learn how to make a better heart. Teddy’s last heart was somewhat lopsided, but he tried his best. He spilled some blue paint on it! “NO!”
He found a star sticker and put it on his heart. Yes!
Teddy dug his nails into his palms, he took deep breaths, and he clutched his stuffed pet dog as he walked down the hall in the hospital.
“She will feel better after I visit.”
Teddy opened the door slowly and kept his eyes on the floor.
“Teddy, thanks for visiting me.”
He grinned.
“I’m sorry that it’s lopsided, but it’s my best work!” he said quickly and took it out of his folder to show it to her.
“I love it!”
“Because I made it out of love and did my best?”
“Yes to both!”
“I hope this helps you feel better quicker.”
“It does!”
She put the heart over her heart and he opened his arms because he wanted to hug her. They hugged. “Happy Valentine’s Day, you rock!” shouted Teddy.
He was worried alright: Teddy dug his nails into his palms, he took deep breaths
The Perfect Valentine Card
212 words
Deborah Dolan Hunt
Kaylie looked at the rows of Valentine cards. “I can’t decide.”
Alexis groaned. “I thought you wanted the cute puppies.”
Kaylie shrugged. “What if everyone thinks they’re silly?”
Alexis pointed. “What about the frogs, ducks, kitties, or bears?”
“I need the perfect one,” Kaylie replied.
Alexis grumbled. “Why are you so worried?”
“Everyone likes you but I’m the new girl,” Kaylie frowned.
Alexis hugged her. “Everyone likes you too.”
Kaylie looked at the shelves. “Let’s go home.”
Kaylie thought about Valentine’s Day all week. She worried about not sending
cards and she worried about sending the wrong cards.
Kaylie watched the kids put their cards in the big heart shaped box in her
classroom. She still didn’t know what to do. She looked around and got an
idea.
The next day she got to school early so she could place her special Valentine
cards on everyone’s desk. She had made her own cards. Each one had
something special about the boys and girls in her class.
Alexis shouted. “I love my heart shaped ballerina card.”
Bobby smiled. “This is the coolest baseball card.”
Even her teacher loved her heart shaped apple card.
The kids all exclaimed as they opened their special cards.
Alexis hugged her. “You made the perfect Valentine’s cards.”
Each one had
something special about the boys and girls in her class.
That took a LOT of time! I bet those kids remember her now.
Thank, Jill!
Personalized valentine cards, sweet character. Good luck!
Thank you! Have a nice day! Do you have an entry? If so, good luck to you, too!
Recipe for the Perfect Valentine
by Anne Lipton
196 words
I am a true perfectionist.
I have to make things right.
An error or a speck of dust
will keep me up all night.
I worry that my valentines
will not be fit to share.
The edges rough, the spacing wrong,
my hearts all need repair.
I tuck them into envelopes
so they look nice and neat.
But when I seal from flap to fold,
the edges don’t quite meet.
I choose my writing implement
and fill the well with ink.
It sprays out like a fountain (pen)
in ultraviolet pink.
I’ll have to get creative fast.
I’m in an awful spot.
I crayon in some curvy hearts
to outline every blot.
I know—I’ll make some cupcakes, too!
I like to be precise.
I barely have the time to bake—
because I measure twice!
I balance every valentine,
so HIGH that I can’t see,
and barrel through the classroom door
when—BANG!—the door hits me!
My cards completely scatter—OOPS!
while cupcakes PLOP-PLOP-PLOP.
My bow-tied box secures them. Well—
at least it keeps its top!
My classmates swoop to scoop me up.
I never planned for this—
those “Valentine Smashed Cupcakes”—SMACK!—
invite my first chef’s kiss!
As a perfectionist, I really relate to this! Great rhyme and meter here, and I adore the ending!
Thanks, Amanda!💌
Fantastic story and rhyme! I love the ending! Good luck in the contest!
Thanks, Mona!💌
I can feel the anxiety. Your story incorporates the brief very well. Good luck!
Thanks, Corine!💌
I always enjoy your writing!
Love this.
Good luck.
Thanks, Jill!💌
A Heart for Helena
by KM Jesson
214 words
A new heart was the only thing Helena really wanted for Valentine’s Day.
Not a paper heart.
Not a candy heart.
Not a jewel heart.
What Helena wished for was a healthy human heart.
One that wasn’t weak and unreliable like the one she was born with.
One that would beat a steady and strong thump, thump, thump, thump.
One that would mean her parents wouldn’t worry all the time.
One that would let her run, jump and play like other children.
Without the fear that she might need to be rushed to the hospital.
A heart that was robust enough, she could dance, twirl and leap for hours just like her friends.
But Helena secretly worried that a new heart might make her a different person. Would that heart still love her mom, dad and her friends the same?
On Valentine’s Day came the long-awaited call from the hospital.
Her wish had come true, they had a new heart for her!
She awoke in her hospital bed to huge smiles on her parents’ faces.
She felt her new heart beating a reassuring thump, thump, thump, thump.
Yes, it was filled with love and gratitude for her family and friends!
She leaped, danced and twirled, grateful for the Valentine’s gift she would treasure forever!
Certainly puts things in perspective. Well said.
Wow! I agree that it’s the best gift of all. Well done. Good luck.
Thank you!
Hi, I was having problems with the formatting for some reason 😦 I hope this is still considered. Thank you for this opportunity!
I am not good at art and crafts
By Maritere Bellas
214 words
My heart sank at the teacher’s announcement.
“Children, we are going to make Valentine’s cards for your parents.”
I am not good at art and crafts. Everyone knows that.
My lines go outside the picture.
My colors never match.
My hearts are always crook it.
There is no way, I can do a perfect heart!
Teacher says it’s not about perfection, it’s about heart.
Doesn’t she remember I can’t draw a heart!
With a pencil my heart shape has lopsided curves. ¡Ay, NO!
With a felted pen, the heart edges are jagged. UGH!
Even using watercolors, the heart is uneven. What is the fun in that!
I am not good at arts and crafts.
Worry thoughts invade my head.
I must make a card for mom and dad!
Teacher says, “anything goes as long as t’s made with heart.”
How about cut out heart shape pictures?
Those I can’t be mess up.
I glued on construction paper with all my heart!
A photo of my parents and glitter in the corners, and I come up with a card.
I am not good at arts and crafts.
But making sure I show my parents I love them? That I am good at!
I love the character realizing that making something with a heart and making something with heart are different. Very sweet
Thank you so much, Kendra!
I like to imagine what the card would look like with all attempts on one page! Adorable.
Oops, I meant to say thank you in here!
I really appreciate you! Best, Mari
Word Count: 214
Vovo’s Valentine
by Kayla Martinez
Vovo was Valentina’s favorite person ever.
He was tough, kind, and perfectly clever!
So when the Senior Valentine’s Dance rolled around,
she was certain cards would abound!
But… nothing came! And Valentina worried.
She made four valentine cards, all in a hurry.
“Will you be Vovo’s valentine?” She asked on bended knee.
Ms. Hakari shook her head. “This year, I’m focused on me.”
“Will you be Vovo’s valentine?” She held out her heart.
Ms. Leblanc declined, “My kitties and I can’t be apart.”
“Will you be Vovo’s valentine?” She declared in front of everyone.
Ms. Dasari laughed, “For me, running my cafe is much more fun.”
“Will you please, please be Vovo’s valentine?” She pleaded.
Ms. Kay smiled at lovely Ms. Middy, “Your Vovo didn’t steal my heart, she did.”
Ms. Middy chuckled, “We all know your Vovo’s a catch, dear.
But I heard he was inviting someone special this year.”
Someone special? When she asked, Vovo laughed with such force,
“Well, it’s my Valentina, of course!”
“B-but-” and Valentina told him about her day.
Vovo grinned, “When it comes to love, there’s more than one way!
Ms. Hakari loves herself, and Ms. Leblanc loves her kitties,
Ms. Dassari loves her cafe, and Ms. Kay loves Ms. Middy.
And, my Valentina, I love you!”
Very sweet story!
I love the repetition. And the ending is very sweet!
This was my son in third grade. He was convinced he wasn’t good at art! Thanks for reading! Best, Mari
“When it comes to love, there’s more than one way!
. . . Isn’t that the truth!
Thank you so much for taking the time to read it! Best, Mari
Love, Cade
Written by: Briana Caballero
214 words
Love, Cade I write in my bestest writing. I look down at my Spiderman Valentine and smile at all the sparkly pink glitter.
“Okay everybody, it’s time to pass out your Valentines,” Mrs. Hart says. Other kids start giving their Valentine’s away, but I stay in my chair.
“Happ…Happy Valentine’s Day,” Isabel whispers shoving a Valentine into my box. A few more kids give me their Valentine cards when I hear the bell ring. “Have a great weekend everybody!” Mrs. Hart claps.
My stomach feels tight. I didn’t give my Valentine.
Mrs. Hart comes over to me, “What a beautiful Valentine Cade,” she says bending down. “Why didn’t you give it away?”
My eyes fill with tears. “I didn’t want anyone to see me.”
She gives me a really big hug. “You know, I just saw a special someone out in the hall,” she smiles. “Maybe it’s not too late.”
I run down the hall when I see my Valentine standing in front of me. My Spiderman card warms my hand.
Feeling worry worms, I hand my card to Noah. He looks up at me with a smile as big as a rainbow and gives me a warm hug.
“Happy Valentine’s Day Cade,” he giggles handing me a sparkly Valentine card signed Love, Noah.
Sweet. I particularly like “feeling worry worms.”
Thanks so much for reading it Sarah❤️ Happy Valentine’s Day!
Thank you, Mrs. Hart. That had to be hard for Cade. He had nothing to worry about in the end.
Thank goodness the teacher nudged her a bit. Sweet.
Cupie
Written by: M. A. Caballero
214 Words
Valentine’s Day was finally here. With parties, fancy candies, and Valentine cards, Cupid had been busy all day. Cupie knew this was the year she’d be asked to help spread love too.
“Cupie, I think you’re ready to help me this year,” Cupid said to his daughter.
“I mean, you’re six years old now and I think it’s about time.”
Cupie looked up at her dad, “Are you sure? What if I can’t help someone fall in love like you do?”
“You don’t have to make someone fall in love,” Cupie’s dad smiled, “you just have to spread your love to them.”
Cupid saw a couple sitting nearby, “Watch this,” he said. A small glow of love light sparked from Cupid’s heart.
“Isn’t their love magnificent?” He asked. The couple hugged lovingly.
“You make it look so easy,” Cupie said sadly.
“What if my love light isn’t as bright as yours or my heart isn’t sweet enough? They won’t be able to feel my love,” she said.
Cupid held his daughter’s hand and looking into her eyes said, “My sweet Cupie, your love shines even brighter than mine and your heart sparkles with kindness to give.” As Cupie hugged her dad tight, bright flares of colorful lights and shimmers of glitter surrounded them both.
Love this: colorful lights and shimmers of glitter surrounded them both.
She IS old enough.
The Day After St. Valentine’s
By Alice Bianchi-Clark
Since Grandpa joined the stars,
I worry about Grandma.
I miss the shimmy in her step,
the sparkle in her eyes,
the sun in her songs,
her laughter rise.
My big sister, Cerys, says it will pass.
Cerys scissors hearts into shape
to take to a love party tonight.
She frets –
about what dress to wear,
and which cupcakes to bake.
“What’s St. Valentine’s Day for?” I ask.
“Love,” she says, “Today is a day for love.”
I think of Grandma.
Is it too late for love?
In the kitchen, I sprinkle and splash.
In the living room, I splatter and spray.
In the sky, the sun sinks and sags.
Is it too late for love?
I grab a bundle of hearts,
a basket of cakes,
a bouquet of paper blooms.
When the dark grass drinks the last of the light from the sky,
I skip across the garden to Grandma’s
I open the latch but –
No!
In her chair, Grandma rocks and sleeps.
Is it too late for love?
To the sounds of her snores,
I tiptoe,
I scatter,
I hang,
I paper love
everywhere.
And before she wakes,
I pray –
for the shimmy in her step,
the sparkle in her eyes,
the sun in her songs.
Tomorrow,
may her laughter rise.
Word count: 213
Wow, this really hit me….so sad and sweet. I especially love these lines: Since Grandpa joined the stars… the sun in her songs… When the dark grass drinks the last of the light from the sky… Beautiful writing!
Lovely lyrical language!
This is beautiful and hits particularly close to home for me this year. Lovely story, Alice.
Beautiful writing and sentiment.
Beautiful! I can picture such a joyful morning after Valentine’s Day for Grandma. “The sun in her songs”-this is full of love!
Thank you all for the welcome encouragement. This story is loosely autobiographical.
Such lovely lyrical language and a sweet action for a worried grandchild to take.
You have a lovely voice.
I like the refrain.
Well done.
ENTRY POSTED FOR ANGELA
The Groundhog and the Airpig
By Angela Martinelli
WC 115
On Valentine’s Day a groundhog yawned and woke
to see a magic airpig flying by.
Alas, they only brushed hands when they spoke,
for airpigs can’t touch ground but live in sky.
They traveled south in hopes of catching surf,
but waves don’t rest and Groundhog fell in deep.
They tried to ski the snowy mountain turf,
but couldn’t share a cozy home to sleep.
Upset, they worried where to live and play
until some creatures in a tree ran ‘round
and Airpig saw a place for them to stay.
They built a treehouse where the air met ground.
When people ask if spring is in the air,
“Well,” Groundhog answers, “Love is surely there.”
I love this idea of a groundhog and airpig meeting . . . so creative. And the ending is so sweet!
Angela, I love all the geography wrapped in sonnets.
A treehouse! Perfect.
ENTRY POSTED FOR SUSAN
CUPID VERSUS BABY NEW YEAR
By Susan Gleeson
Word Count 199
Cupid was worried.
It was February, and Baby New Year was refusing to leave.
At first, Cupid thought he could just bribe Baby to go away.
Chocolates?
Baby said he wasn’t eating solids yet.
Flowers?
Baby said he had allergies.
A gushy card?
Baby couldn’t read.
Now they both stood here in their ridiculous diapers,
waiting for Judge Wise-Old-Owl to appear.
Baby claimed it wasn’t fair.
He had a tough act to follow…and
his gig was over in twenty-four hours.
Fair!
February, was the shortest month of the year… and
Cupid was under a lot of pressure.
A lot was expected of him.
The Judge had listened to them both carefully.
Now he needed time to make his decision.
This really worried Cupid.
He could miss Valentine’s Day completely!
Soon, those shady leprechauns would be leaping about with their pots of gold.
But when the Judge finally returned,
Baby New Year threw a tantrum.
Wailing.
Whining.
Whimpering.
And promptly falling asleep.
It was clear someone had stayed up past his bedtime.
So, Judge Wise-Old-Owl ruled in Cupid’s favor.
Not just because Baby New Year had outstayed his welcome.
Because Cupid would spread love…
the most important thing of all.
Love the humor!
Nice story, too.
Pennygirl’s In Love
Pennygirl licked her paws,
Not a good sign!
Grandma tried stopping this,
Even though she’d whine!
Did Jenkins the Snowy Owl
Like her too?
Penny wasn’t sure,
Was he her love so true?
Oh such a dilemma!
Why was it so hard?
To find out if sweet Jenkins,
Would he accept her card?
Her paws were wet from licking,
A habit hard to break!
Poor Grandma had no notion,
Her pup’s heart was at stake!
Oh Penny had been crafting,
A card for Owl, so sweet!
She wanted to present him,
Her masterpiece & treat!
For Valentine’s was coming,
She’d never felt this way!
Poor Penny couldn’t discern,
What would come of this heart day?
So Penny put her tutu on,
She prepped to meet sweet owl!
Her nerves were frayed beyond compare,
Oh what if owl growled?
She couldn’t worry of such things,
For love will find a way!
Her heart was bursting with delight,
For it was Valentine’s Day!
They met on land beside the pier,
And both were Oh so shy!
But soon were sharing a root beer,
With sliced up pizza pie!!
The moon it rose behind their heads,
So beautiful & bright!
I love you so, my Pennygirl,
Said Owl, and held her tight!
Judy McGee Author
(212 words with Title)
Great line: For love will find a way!
And it did.
Sir Snacks-a-Lot Saves the Day (WC: 210)
By Amanda Fletcher
Amid the glitter and glue of Valentine-making in Ms. Gwenevere’s second grade class, Sir Snacks-a-Lot paced in his fortress. He paused and peered through the plexiglass, his pink nose twitching fretfully.
“The ogres have dropped her!” he cried. “Fear not, fair maiden!”
Wielding his trusty woodchip Excalibur, Sir Snacks-a-Lot escaped unnoticed, a knight in shining hamster.
His heart swelled with pride at fulfilling his royal oath. Over the crags of Doune and through the swamps of Snowdonia to reach the maiden. His beady eyes blinked as she spoke.
“What are you doing?”
“I’m here to rescue you!”
“But I am a glue stick.”
“Nonsense, I know a damsel in distress when I see one!”
“But I am—ma-moo-miff!”
Sir Snacks-a-Lot stuffed the helpless maiden into his cheek pouch. But before he journeyed back to his fortress, an ogre seized him.
“Unhand me, devilish beast!” the hamster spat. To his horror, the maiden fell from his mouth and into the Pit of Pendragon.
“Nooooooo!”
Back inside his fortress, Sir Snacks-a-Lot sniffed the other damsels he’d rescued that day: a crumpled sticky note, a broken crayon, and a pencil nub. Worry welled inside him as his attention returned to his quest.
“Fear not, my love! I will rescue you again tomorrow!”
“Whatever.”
Hysterical! Sir Snacks-a-lot is a valiant little varmint!!! lol
Seems I do all my best writing while driving and with you transcribing, lol.
“woodchip Excalibur” – Brilliant!
thanks! these references were fun to sprinkle in. My husband’s favorite movie is Excaliber, but I was always partial to Monty Python…
LOL. Sir Snacks-a-Lot deserves his own series. Fabulous fantasy mash-up with a finely detailed depiction of hamster behavior. “Pit of Pendragon” really popped for me!
thanks! I was torn on my research…Should I reference Once and Future King or Monty Python? I decided on a smattering of both.
What a great character! And I love your word choices – this was a fun read. Well done!
thanks so much!
Hahaha! Fantastically original and funny! Well done, Amanda! It is always a pleasure to read your work.
Why thank you. Likewise 🙂
You’ve added even more fun stuff since I heard it! Love it!
Haha! This made me laugh out loud! So unique and so much fun! Amazing job, Amanda!
What a fun story. Congratulations on another original and hilarious character!
ENTRY POSTED FOR ELIZABETH
LIZZY-LOO McBRIDE‘S VALENTINE’S DANCE DISASTER
by
ere
There wasn’t a lass in all the school,
Or in the district wide
To match the stunning beauty
Of Lizzy-Loo McBride.
On Valentine’s Day the postman
Had to mind his poor old back
For the cards addressed to Lizzy-Loo
Weighed heavy in his sack.
She lurked behind the letterbox
Till he shoved the bundles through
And she grabbed those bright red envelopes
Speed-reading them two by two.
Where was his card? Where was it!
How could he be so cruel?
And then, she remembered yesterday,
And the Valentine’s dance at school.
She’d made a fuss of the new boy
Leaving Henry looking glum.
She giggled loud and often
While completely ignoring him.
Are you dancing, asked the new boy.
I am, was her reply.
So off they skipped across the floor
While poor Henry slunked outside.
As they danced the new boy stumbled
He tripped her once or twice.
And then he tried to flip her high,
That wasn’t very nice.
Her pretty dress got torn and stained
When he slid her across the floor.
It was then that she decided
She couldn’t take it anymore.
She called out, Henry, help me!
But Henry was long gone.
So today poor Lizzy-Loo McBride,
Is the wounded worried one.
word count 207
ENTRY POSTED FOR CARMEN
RAMONA’S COOKIES
By Carmen Castillo Gilbert, PhD
Word Count: 194
It’s Valentine’s Day and Ramona wants to do something special for her sad, grumpy neighbor, Mr. Pérez.
At his front door she grips the plate of cookies in her hands.
Thump! Thump! Thump!
Ramona tries to quiet her heart.
She starts leaving …
What if Mr. Pérez gets mad?
What if he tells her to go away?
What if he slams the door in her face?
What if he does not like her cookies?
Mr. Pérez waves to no one on the street.
He never pets puppies. Who doesn’t like to pet puppies?
He shoos away the kids in the neighborhood if their balls roll into his yard.
Ramona slowly climbs the front steps again.
Deep breath…
Ring, ring, ring!
The door opens a little.
Ramona inches her plate forward.
“Happy Valentine’s Day, Mr. Pérez!”
“What a surprise!” he says.
A tear rolls down his face.
“Oh! Chocolate chip, just like my grandma used to make them,” he says.
“And they look like hearts. Thank you!”
The corners of his mouth turn up for the first time in a long, long time.
Ramona breathes a sigh of relief.
And her smile matches Mr. Pérez’s.
Beautiful. I love how sweet Ramona moves past her worried thoughts to bring a smile to her neighbor.
Thanks so much, Sarah for reading my story and for your lovely comments.
Awww… sweet Ramona and lucky Mr. Pérez!
Muchas gracias, Poupette for your nice remarks!
Ramona really cracked through Mr. Perez’s hard shell! What fun!
Donna, thanks for your lovely comments. Really like your use of the words: “cracked through.” Ha! ha!
Ramona’s the best! I know a certain grumpy old man who loves chocolate chip cookies and wishes she were his neihbor too!
Gosh, I wish Ramona were a real person who could bake you some chocolate chip cookies and go deliver them at your door, Paul!!!
I feel Ramona’s worry and her bravery, too. There is so much heart in your story from the way Ramona make’s Mr. Perez’s day to the shape of the chocolate chip cookies :).
That’s such a nice story, Carmen. Very heartwarming…
Dawn, thanks for your feedback. Glad you were able to read my story. I liked yours too!
UNSWEETENED
By Russell Wolff
214 words
DINGDONG
“I got it.”
Andrew side-eyes the bowl of candy hearts on the way to the door. Having type 1 diabetes now means this year’s Valentine’s Day party will be different. He checks the graph on his new insulin pump. Still okay.
“Hey, sweetie!” Aunt Rachel says.
“Don’t call him that!” Uncle Mark says and winks. “You’ll send his blood sugar through the roof!”
Uncle Mark also has diabetes, but Andrew knows that’s not how it works. Their sugars will stay in range if they mostly avoid real sweets.
But Andrew notices that after every sugary greeting,
(“Hi, honey! How ya feelin’?”)
his numbers rise
(“How are you, sweetheart?”)
and rise
(“Wow, sweetie, I’d never be able to figure out that pump!”)
until he feels super sluggish.
Is this how it works? he wonders.
Andrew tells Uncle Mark everything. “You were right!”
Uncle Mark smiles. “Not exactly,” he says. “But words can raise your sugar if they make you worry. Part of the fun.”
Diabetes is so weird.
But Andrew knows what to do to lower his sugar.
“Want to do jumping jacks with me?” he asks.
Uncle Mark hugs him. “I’ll count.”
Soon Andrew sees his sugar is down. He’s calmer, too.
And everyone’s brought his favorite non-dessert foods. In heart shapes.
Sweet.
I appreciate the layers of learning in this charming story. Nicely done.
I love how specific this is….I never thought about all the sugary words of endearment there are in the world!
Wow this is clever and informative and (would it be ironic if I called it sweet?). I love it.
Hahaha! Nice way to mention the challenges and complexity of Type 1 management.
VALENTRUCK
By Sarah Meade
Word Count: 214
Val the Valentruck heads down the road with her happy horn honking.
Lovey-dovey BEEP-BEEP!
Shiny red fenders? Check!
Pink-tinted windows? Check!
Sparkling heart-shaped hubcaps? Check!
Tank full of LOVE? Check-check-check!
Squeeeeak! First stop.
On Cupid Corner, Val delivers valentine cards.
She rumbles around the bend . . . as the first snowflake falls.
Lovey-dovey BEEP-BEEP!
Squeeeeak! Second stop.
On Lovebird Lane, Val delivers candy hearts.
She hurries up the hill as snow fills the air . . . and the streets!
Lovey-dovey BEEP-BEEP!
Squeeeeak! Third stop.
On Sweetheart Way, Val delivers beautiful bouquets.
She drives down the road, but . . .
Yikes!
The snow!
The ice!
Val slips and slides and swerves!
Squeeeeak!
THUD!
Val shivers and quivers in the ditch.
Her headlights blink.
Val tries to go—
but she doesn’t budge.
Her wipers swish.
She tries again.
Tires spin, but—
Still stuck.
What if Val can’t finish her deliveries?
What if she ruins Valentine’s Day?
What if she’s stuck here . . . forever?
Val revs her engine and reminds herself . . .
Shiny red fenders? Check!
Pink-tinted windows? Check!
Sparkling heart-shaped hubcaps? Check!
Tank full of LOVE? Check-check-check!
Val vrooms out of the ditch!
She drives sl-o-o-o-o-wly down the road in the snow.
It takes a long time,
but
Val delivers
every
single
valentine.
VALEN-YAY!
Val heads home with her happy horn honking.
Lovey-dovey BEEP-BEEP!
I lovey-dovey all your clever wordplay and onomatopoeia. And the tank full of love! And that Valentruck’s self-love and confidence saves the day!
Thank you so much for your kind words!
Val is sweet and deserves her own Valentine! Go Val Go!!!
Thanks so much, Jany!
Sarah – I can ‘see’ this all in my head!
I think children would adore this story!
So fun!!
That’s the best compliment. Thank you, Elizabeth!
Love the image and description of Val the truck!
Thanks so much, Lauri!
I love the character of Val! Kids will too! Well done!
Thank you for reading and commenting!
I love this truck! Lovey-dovey BEEP-BEEP! Fun!
Thank you, Corine!
So cute! Reminds me of Little Blue Truck 🙂
Thank you, Maria! Love LBT!
Sarah–
Shiny red fenders? Check!
Pink-tinted windows? Check!
Sparkling heart-shaped hubcaps? Check!
Tank full of LOVE? Check-check-check!
My favorite lines…
Aww! Thank you for telling me this, Laura. I appreciate your kindness.
Be Mine, Twine!
By Sarah Meade
Word Count: 214
The classroom crafts closet was quiet until . . .
“It’s Valentine’s Day!” Stapler announced. “Know what that means?”
Glue grinned. “I get to stick-stick-stick!”
“Us too!” the Glue Sticks crooned.
“I’ll cut-cut-cut out valentines!” Scissors shimmied.
“I’ll sparkle-sparkle-sparkle EVERYWHERE– on the cards, the table, the floor, the KIDS!” Glitter galloped happily.
Everyone danced in anticipation . . .
Except Twine.
She sat alone on the shelf, tangled in knots with worry . . .
What will I do?
I can’t stick stuff like Glue.
I can’t cut like Scissors.
I definitely don’t sparkle like Glitter.
I’m just Twine.
What if nobody needs me?
What if I stay in the crafts closet all day?
By myself!
Twine cried.
Everyone swooped in.
“Cheer up, Twine!” said Stapler.
“You’ll be fine,” Scissors cut in.
“We stick together,” said Glue.
“Yep!” the Glue Sticks agreed.
“Really?” Twine sniffled. “Even if I can’t stick or cut or sparkle?”
“Totally!” Glitter tittered. “We love you for YOU!”
Hmmm thought Twine.
“Shh!” said Stapler. “Hear that?”
Kids!
“Places, everyone!” Stapler whispered.
Twine decided to unwind a bit . . .
Creeeeeeak.
The door swung open.
“Look!” said a kid. “The twine says LOVE!”
“Hey, let’s use it!” said another kid. “We’ll hang hearts around the classroom!”
“Yeah!”
The craft supplies smiled.
Twine sighed in delight.
“I’m not just Twine. Today . . . I’m VALEN-TWINE!”
Aw. This is sweet
Thanks for reading, Kendra!
This is so cute! The story really pulled me along, and I love all of the play on words. Well done!
I’m so glad to hear this. Thanks for reading, Amanda!
Very creative story, Sarah. From the title to your last line! Such fun wordplay with your title character, and I’m happy twine got to have a part in Valentine’s Day! Hope you expand this into a PB!
Thank you so much for your kind words, Katie!
Very fun reading!
thank you!
Oh my gosh, I love the wordplay! This is really sweet and clever.
Sorry, that comment about the wordplay was from me, Laura Proven Croyle. Not sure why it said I was logged in as Valiant wizard on my phone. Anyway, loved your story, Sarah!
Thank you, Laura!
Fantastic! Such a creative idea!
Thank you for reading!
Love this story and its message and it’s clever play on words!
Thanks so much, Susan!
Amazing alliteration and love the personification of the craft supplies.
Thank you!
Great play on words! Love Valen-twine.
Thanks for reading, Rose!
So cute and creative with your sweet ending!
Thank you for reading!
Adorable! Love the Valen-twine ending!
Thanks so much for reading!
Love the ending Sarah. Unexpected but perfect.
Thank you, Laura!
FOUND ACCEPTANCE
By Laura Proven Croyle
214 words 🙂
“Time to exchange valentines!”
My stomach sinks at Ms. Sain’s announcement.
Heat ripples through me like ink bleeds through tissue.
“Oooh, princess erasers!”
“You brought superhero tattoos!”
“What’d you bring, Cam?”
My cheeks blaze. I’d prepared my answer, but still.
“I decided to make my valentines. I…wanted a challenge.”
James starts to respond before becoming riveted by Mike’s parachute guys.
My valentines? Found Poems from newspaper articles.
I’m sweating. Fretting. Regretting.
I’m still new here. My classmates find me mysterious, which is fine.
I’d rather be known as the quirky, artsy kid than…
The poor kid.
We can’t afford valentines. I didn’t even bother asking Mom.
Everyone doles out their sticker-adorned envelopes and tiny toys.
I slap my flimsy little scraps on each desk.
What a dumb idea. They look like old CIA reports, mostly blacked out. The handful of remaining words are …lame.
Why did I bother?
I rush back to my seat, mortified.
“Woah—what is this?”
I can feel my heartbeat in my ears.
“Did y’all see Cam’s poems? Mine’s from a business article:
Merge trust.
Venture in
long-term
partnerships.”
I don’t breathe.
But they don’t laugh—
They marvel.
“How’d you do this?”
“Cool! I wanna try!”
I grin.
I didn’t think I wanted to stand out,
but maybe I do.
Lovely. I particularly enjoyed “sweating, fretting, regretting.”
Thank you!
Me too!
This is a wonderful story!!! Well done!!
Aw thank you!
Love this one! Such a clever valentine idea…even if you have the means for something splashier. You really captured his worry here. well done!
Thank you so much!
This is gorgeous. Well done.
Oh this one made me tear up! Well done making us feel all the feels!
So well done! Love it❣️
♥️ I CAN’T READ MY VALENTINE ♥️
By: Alicia Meyers
WC: 185
Ms. May says today
for Valentine’s Day
treasures and treats will come my way.
Handwritten notes,
pink and red art,
sweet little words
on a candy-shaped heart.
But…I can’t read them.
“You can!” says Ms. May.
“Think of the tricks we do every day.”
Can I?
Will I?
This seems too hard.
That’s when I see Violet—
coming with a card.
My hands get clammy
as her eyes lock in.
She slowly shuffles forward
and smiles with a grin.
She puts some paper in my palm
then quickly runs away.
I look down at her homemade heart…
Oh no.
WHAT DOES IT SAY?!
The letters mix together.
They jump and spin and play.
I focus on one at a time
and listen for Ms. May.
Slither letters like a snake.
Look for chunks you know.
Then, put the sounds together.
Ready…set…GO!
/h/ /a/…/p/
y at the end says /ē/
/v/ /a/…[len] [tine]
Valentines–it’s gotta be!
Ms. May was right–
I know these sounds.
One word left to go.
I know what’s next!
I can read the rest!
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY, MO!
Such a sweet and charming story! Your MC’s problem made me think of my first grader daughter who’s learning all the tricks right now and building her reading confidence. Nicely done.
Thank you so much, Sarah! That was exactly what I was going for!! 🙂
So well done, Alicia!!! I enjoy the working through the worry and building confidence as a new reader 🙂
Thanks, Sharon!! 🙂 ❤
What a great idea! Like Sarah said–my daughter is currently learning to read and this is such a relatable story for kids.
Thank you, Laura!!! Happy Valentine’s Day!
This is a winner in my book!!!
The first-grade teacher in me says this is the perfect “Valentiny” poem! Great job❣️
Haiku for Two
by Sharon Korzelius
WC: 214
My stomach was in knots. My hair was out of place. Worst of all, when I walked into school the day of our classroom party, Amirah S. knew my secret.
I was nervous and tired. My parents’ yelling kept me awake the night before. I overslept and almost missed the bus.
I wish I had. How could I face Emma if Amirah S. told her what she saw?
I was antsy all through Art and made mistakes in Math. Spilled my chocolate milk at lunch and squirmed through social studies.
Then, finally, it was time to exchange Valentines.
I’d begged stickers from my sister and spent hours finding the right words:
“My friend, Emma Klein,
you’re good at math, always kind.
Be my valentine?”
Would she say yes if Amirah S. whispered that she saw me suck my thumb? Or would she laugh? Call me a baby?
Emma caught my eye from two rows over. She smiled, held up my card, and nodded like she wanted me to open hers at the same time.
I tore open the envelope and read:
“My friend, Vincent Vine,
you’re sweet, talented, and kind.
Be my Valentine?”
And in pencil on the back:
“Please don’t worry, friend,
there are many ways to cope.
I still think you’re dope.”
You’ve tackled a tough topic in a thoughtful and effective way. Nicely done.
Emma is dope! Great story and characters, and love the embedded haikus.
This is a great story!
Sheba’s Sweet Valentine
by Barbara Lerman-Golomb
206 words
It was Valentine’s Day and Sheba didn’t know where her special someone was.
She paced around the dining room, delightfully decorated with red roses and paper hearts. A reminder that it was a day of love and appreciation.
Sheba treasured their long walks together, romps in the park, and all the fun they had playing with favorite toys.
She continued to pace. Where was she? Circling the table, Sheba caught a whiff of something sweet. Her stomach rumbled. Maybe her special someone hadn’t forgotten about her after all. Maybe she left her a treat. Sheba leaned on the table to get a closer look.
There it was! Her mouth watered. How long am I supposed to wait? she wondered.
After some time passed, she heard footsteps pounding down the stairs. Her special someone had returned! Excited to see her, Sheba jumped up, joyfully wagging her tail.
“Sheba! What did you do?”
All that was left on the table was a stack of party plates, a cake knife, and scattered sprinkles and crumbs. Sheba, her mouth rimmed in pink frosting, tucked her tail and tried looking away.
When their eyes met, Sheba’s special someone scooped her up, hugging her close. “It’s a good thing you’re my Valentine!”
Sweet ending!
Thanks!
So cute!
Thanks!
Sometimes We Argue:
By: Elizabeth Bryer
Word Count: 211
There’s a knot in my tummy,
A fire in my head,
I can’t stop thinking
‘Bout things that I’ve said.
I opened my mouth,
The words that slipped out,
Came out too harsh.
Came out in a shout.
And now that I’m thinking,
My head feels more clear.
But how can I say that,
When next we are near?
It’s Valentines Day,
And everyone’s happy.
But not me at all,
I’m still feeling snappy.
My breakfast is sloppy,
My clothes feel too tight.
Can nothing today,
Just seem to go right?
“You seem a bit off”
In passing, mom said.
“Do not let a worry,
Take over your head.”
“I’m fine,” I tell Mom,
As I move to the door.
My voice is a lie,
My eyes on the floor.
My Mom doesn’t know.
‘Cause she wasn’t there.
Will my friend forgive me?
Should I even care?
They said things too!
My feelings still hurt.
As I walk to class,
My feet kick the dirt.
Just before school,
Our eyes, they meet.
I blurt out: “I’m sorry,”
And stare at my feet.
Then to my surprise,
My friend says the same!
Smiling together,
Gone is the blame.
Valentines Day,
Feels sunny at last,
My body feels light,
Our troubled time past.
Love the ending and the lightness that comes with forgiveness.
A Fruitful Valentine’s Day (209 words)
By Shaunessy Sinnett
The fruits of Countertop Kingdom dreaded Valentine’s Day.
“How could we possibly compete with these other treats? Boxed chocolates, candy hearts…” worried Apple on February 13th.
“Maybe there’s hope: look at Strawberry! They dipped her in chocolate and she’s a Valentine’s bestseller!” said Banana.
“Suuuuure,” Pear yawned, “wake me up when a fondue set gets delivered.”
“We’re gonna end up COMPOSTED! We’ll NEVER be part of Valentine’s Day!” cried Cherry.
The fruits sulked hopelessly, but didn’t notice that little Bailey was listening from the other room. She scooped them and charged toward the crafts table.
Paper! Paint! Scissors! Stickers!
“Ow!” cried the fruits as something was stuck to their sides.
“Perfect,” Bailey smiled.
The next morning four fruits sat on the breakfast table each with a glittering valentine attached.
Mom picked up Apple and read the valentine: “You’re the apple of my eye!”
Apple smiled.
Dad read the Banana valentine: “I’m bananas for you. Let’s never split!”
Banana blushed.
Sister picked up Pear. “We make a great pear,” she read.
Pear chuckled.
Brother held Cherry: “Love you cherry much!”
Cherry cheered.
The family pulled Bailey into a hug.
For the first time, the fruits felt part of Valentine’s Day. They had nothing to worry about… At least until Hallowe’en.
This cracked me up! And makes me wish fruit got more love on this holiday of candy…
With any luck they may end up in an Edible Arrangement… 🙂
Perfect corny humor for kids!
Thank you berry much!
Delightful story!
Thank you, Sarah!
Love this, Shaunessy…I was laughing in several spots!
Thank you, Susan! 🍎🍌🍐🍒
Love the voice in this piece! I smiled throughout. Fantastic job!
Glad you found it a-peel-ing! 🍌🍎🍐🍒
even your reply is on point- so cute!
Adorable and nice message that fruit is sweet, too!
Thanks so much for reading!
This is such a fun and clever story. Had me smiling throughout.
Thank you so much for reading it!
How clever! What a fun read! This made me smile. 😊
Thank you for reading it!
ENTRY POSTED FOR RAINY
JUST AN INKLING, VALENTINE
Who made the rule of pink and white?
Who said bright red would be just right
To tell you what I think?
And if the heart I make is green,
Will you still know that I just mean
To send a little wink?
I would not want to be too bold
To sparkly, mushy, hot or cold.
A subtle hint will do.
Nor would I want to be too shy.
Leave you to wonder why
I send this clue to you.
Do you get the slight impression
That I make a sweet confession?
Don’t let me sit here blue.
It’s just an inkling, Valentine
That I am thinking you’ll be mine.
Oh say it will be true!
Rainy Ostrom 2025
ENTRY POSTED FOR JANELLE
Clever Caramel
By Janelle Mikulas
Word Count: 143
He was sweet.
He was sticky.
He was delicious.
He was worried.
The moment they put him front and center in the heart shaped box, he knew he was in trouble. Caramel was delightfully dreamy, perfect amount of gooey. The most craved piece of Valentine’s Day chocolate.
He switched places with Strawberry.
He turned on his side like Coconut.
He tried his best to mimic Pistachio.
He flipped and flopped and scrunched and stretched until he was the last in the box.
“I am quite clever!” he smirked and tucked himself deeply under the empty wrappers.
The heart shaped box was left on the table.
“I did it!” “I tricked those greedy little kids!”
He laughed and laughed.
He was so busy laughing he didn’t notice the little beady eyes and twitchy nose.
GULP!
“Mmmm, caramel is my favorite!” Mouse squeaked with delight.
I love how you personified him and all the plotting he did to avoid getting eaten…sort of how I hide my favorites so my family doesn’t eat them. Funny and relatable!
Hahaha, cute!
Veer’s Worry-ful Valentine
It was red, pink, and white with the letters M-O-M in the middle.
Veer stared at the bracelet he made for his Mom. It was the Valentine’s Day gift he was going to give her today.
He spent a few days putting it together, making sure to use the right colors and the string was sturdy enough.
But he was worried.
What if Mom doesn’t like it? What if it breaks and makes Mom upset?
Veer was hesitant to give it to his Mom, but when she entered the room, he quickly put it in a gift bag and handed it to her.
“Happy Valentine’s Day,” he said, shoulders drooping.
“Happy Valentine’s Day,” his mom responded, smiling from ear to ear.
As she slowly pulled out the bracelet, Veer’s heart was beating fast and his hands were sweating.
As Veer’s Mom looked at the bracelet, Veer blurted, “You hate it, don’t you?” Tears slowly raced down his cheeks as he was unable to control his emotions.
“No. I LOVE it,” Veer’s Mom said as she rushed over to hug him.
“This is such a beautiful and thoughtful gift, and I will wear it every day. I will show it off to my friends and proudly tell them my son made this for me.”
Veer’s tears stopped, and his frown turned upside down.
“I was so worried you wouldn’t like it. And when you didn’t immediately say anything, I thought you hated it.”
“It’s okay to feel worried, but try to take deep breaths to help calm down next time.”
Veer nodded his head.
“Happy Valentine’s Day, Mom.”
“Happy Valentine’s Day, Veer.”
So captivating.
What a wonderful character you’ve created.
Such a heart-warming story.
Jubilee’s Choclickity Catastrophe
By: Julia Ruschmann
Word count: 209
Jubilee Sloth checked her list…
Dark chocolate pistachio for Toucan.
White chocolate guava slime for Snail.
Milk chocolate with a dusting of sawdust for Beaver.”
Jubilee peeked at her calendar.
“What?! I should have started weeks ago,” Jubilee panicked. “I better get a wiggle on, or Valentines will be ruined.”
Sloths are slow you know.
Jubilee started making the choclickity treats, when…
BOOM
“Mercy me, that was scary.”
ROAR
“Uh oh.”
By the time Jubilee climbed to safety, the river overflowed and rushed toward her work shed.
SWOOSH
Cocoa pods, guavas and pistachios whooshed away in the flood.
“Oh NO!.”
Jubilee paced and fretted.
“YES!”
Clack…Clack…Clickety Clack.
“Dear Freddie,
Pods, pistachios, guavas whooshed away in flood. Help!”
“Dear Jubilee,
“We’re on the way.”
Honk…Honk…HOOOONK! Freddie’s flamingo flock flew to Jubilee’s island, supplies clutched in feet.
“Put us to work,” Freddie said.
“Oh, this is a disaster. I’ll never be ready for Valentine’s Day,” Jubilee frowned.
“Jubilee, you’re getting worried wrinkles.”
Freddie, the flamingos, and Jubilee worked morning, noon, and night.
And when Feb 14th rolled around, the choclickity treats were ready and wrapped. Jubilee surprised the flamingos with some extra special bittersweet chocolate with seaweed swirls.
“No need to worry with friends like you,” Jubilee smiled.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
White chocolate guave slime! Jubilee is quite the connoisseur. What a fun story 🙂
A sloth making chocolate…I love it!
CUPID’S CONUNDRUM
by Katia Mykytiuk
214 words
Cupid shivered. Santa offered to host this emergency meeting, but the North Pole was no place for a kid in a diaper.
Santa, Easter Bunny, Tooth Fairy and Leprechaun were there. Pumpkin rolled in with the help of Ghost and Witch.
“Welcome magic friends, I called this meeting because I need your help! My job is to spread love and caring with my magic arrows, but I am worried they might not be strong enough anymore. In these turbulent times, we need to inspire more kindness and empathy amongst our children, and their parents too.
Tooth Fairy spoke up, “I will leave notes encouraging children to share their money with someone in need.”
“I surely can do the same,” said Leprechaun, “no one needs an entire pot of gold.”
“My Easter baskets will also have food, plus a note saying ‘share this with someone who doesn’t have a lunch.’”
Santa declared, “And all my toys will be tagged ‘use this toy to make a new friend.’”
Pumpkin noted, “At Halloween, we demonstrate that different is deviously more delightful!”
The elves piped up, “Cupid, we’ll make you lots more magic arrows for your quiver!”
Cupid flew off feeling a little warmer.
On Valentine’s Day he used up his entire quiver and watched the magic begin…
Valentine Cuddle-fish?
By Abby Kass (214 words)
“It’s Valentine’s Day!” said Carrie, as she swam off to do her cuddlefish best—giving Valentine cuddles.
She spotted some zippy pink damselfish.
“Let’s be Valentines,” she said as she extended her tentacles.
The damsels shrieked, “Monster!”
“I’m NOT a monster, I’m a cuddlefish!”
They darted off and Carrie turned deep crimson.
She was worried. She had to do her cuddlefish best, especially today.
She turned gray and swam on, until
CLUNK
“Ouch!” said Ocho, revealing his octopus body.
“How did you just appear?” she asked.
“Shape and color shifting are octopus superpowers. They are cuttlefish superpowers, too.”
“My superpower is cuddling!”
Before Ocho could explain, damsels in distress rushed towards them, yelling, “Shark!”
“Quick, get behind us,” said Ocho.
Like magic, Ocho disappeared again! Panicked, Carrie called out for him while the damsels cowered behind a rock. Then, the rock opened its eyes. Ocho!
“Shhhhhh, Carrie. See the rock. Be the rock!” Sure enough, Carrie WAS a rock like Ocho!
The shark was fooled and swam away.
“You saved us! Thank you!” said the damsels.
“How did I do that?” whispered Carrie to Ocho.
“You’re a CUTTLEfish.”
The pink damsels wrapped themselves in Carrie’s now pink tentacles for a cuddle, as Carrie cuddled Ocho. “Exactly! I am a great CUDDLEfish of the sea!”
I love cuttlefish and this cute play on words. Very clever!
Thank you! Glad to another cuttlefish fan!
Love Squad
By Maria Piñero Pope
214 Words
Every Valentine’s Day it’s “Cupid this” and “Cupid that” but did you know he doesn’t work alone?
Yeah, he’s a great shot, but there’s a whole squad behind every love-filled strike, and I’m worried no one knows how important we are!
Take Cupid’s trainer, Amara. She makes Cupid’s wings strong enough to carry the extra load. For someone who always has his head in the clouds, it sure is hard to get him up there!
Ruby, Rose, and Romeo are the brains behind the operation. Without them, Cupid would have NO IDEA where to aim. Their job is to spot possible pairings. Then they send the list to the Arrow Department.
That’s where I come in. Cordelia Heart, at your service! I have the BEST job. I make the arrows and dip them in the magic love potion.
Without us, there would be NO Valentines’ Day.
But, what if there’s no way to prove it?
I know!
EXTRA heavy satchel?
Check!
Wrong list of matches?
Check! Check!
Arrows without the love potion?
Check! Check! Check!
We did it!
But wait, what’s going on?
Everyone’s sad and lonely.
I’ve ruined Valentine’s Day!
Love Squad activate!
ZIP,
ZAP,
ZOOOOOOM!
Ahhhh, that’s better.
Turns out we don’t need to take the credit.
All we need is…
LOVE.
Sweet story and fun voice!
Thanks so much Sarah!