Fall Writing Frenzy Entry Form
Hello #FallWritingFrenzy Friends-
Yahoo!! Our competition is finally here!
To enter, please scroll down to the FORM, and fill in all the required fields. You can only fill out the form once, and when you do, we will have all your information.
Reminder: please fill it out between October 1 and October 3, 2020 11:59 PM EST.
And if you would like to see other people’s entries, look at the table directly below. You can scroll to the right and click on the link, and you will be directed to that writer’s blog. Please support one another by reading other entries and commenting on them.
If you didn’t post to your blog and/or would like to share your entry here, you can scroll to the bottom to make a comment. But- be sure to fill out the FORM first- we must have that for your entry to be valid.
Please note: the form and the comments are NOT connected. Filling out the form will not create a comment, you have to do that manually. 🙂
Check the FAQs if you have any trouble,
Good luck to all!
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March 1, 2022 at 12:08 pm
[…] Fall Writing Frenzy Entry Form « Lydia Lukidis […]
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December 9, 2020 at 9:43 pm
[…] week I will try my best to share 5-8 pieces from the Fall Writing Frenzy Winners that have something similar, a theme, if you will. (Figurative gold star if you get the […]
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November 17, 2020 at 9:48 pm
[…] and how it feels left out when all the other trees and flowers show off their colors. When the Fall Writing Frenzy contest hosted by Kaitlyn Sanchez and Lydia Lukidis was announced, I looked through […]
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November 6, 2020 at 8:07 am
[…] on over to Lydia’s blog and check it out, read the winning stories by looking them up on the entries page, and congratulate the winners with some #FallWritingFrenzy […]
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November 6, 2020 at 7:08 am
[…] were 354 wonderful entries. It wasn’t easy but guest judge Donna, Kaitlyn, and I have some wonderful winners to share! […]
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October 27, 2020 at 11:47 am
I was excited when Kaitlyn suggested a fun, new writing prompt where we took our original entry and wrote it from a different POV. I don’t have a blog (well not that I keep up on well anyway, ha ha) but I wanted to share my re-write. This is a new POV from my entry “The Stairway in the Woods”. The photo I chose was the jogger in the foggy forest. The abrupt ending in his inner thought monologue is deliberate (and for a spoooooooky reason!)
The Stairway in the Woods
The Beginning
By Amy Van Duyn
“Superstitious fools. There’s no such thing as witches” Mr. Worthington told himself. Darkness and shadows surrounded him, and the fire was waning.
The servants had all left. No one brought his dinner, and no one was there to bring in more firewood. But he wasn’t afraid to go out and get more, no.
“I was right to take it. The forest belongs to me!”
He recalled her words. ”You took my home, now let your home take you!”
Crazy, old crone. There were poorhouses, probably much better than that rundown old shack she had on his land.
Even his wife and daughters were gone. Yet, he could still hear them, calling to him from the upper floor of the manor. “Join us…” He was sure it was just the leaves blowing in the wind.
Retiring for the evening, he lit a candle. No, not because he was scared.
As he began to ascend the stairs, he heard them again, “Join us…”
Had they been upstairs all along? “I’m coming! I’m almost
The fire left only the stairway of the Worthington mansion, but it moves. If it appears to you, don’t climb to the top. Stay out of the forest.
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October 24, 2020 at 1:38 pm
[…] Frenzy FAQs and feel free to keep reading more stories and interacting with each other from the Fall Writing Frenzy Entries page as […]
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October 17, 2020 at 11:55 pm
[…] The deadline has passed to submit a story, but there’s still time to read the amazing entries to the second annual #FallWritingFrenzy contest! Hosted by agent/author Kaitlyn Sanchez and author Lydia Lukadis, this contest offers 36 great prizes. To read the 353 (!) stories: click here. […]
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October 15, 2020 at 11:46 pm
I don’t see my entry probably because I didn’t post it in the right place. Here it is:
YOU AND ME
By Farida Mirza
I see you and you and you.
Do you see me?
I mean, the ‘inside’ me?
The ‘me’ that is different?
I see you glance at me,
the way one glances at a stranger,
when all I do is laugh at a joke,
as does the whole class.
I see more of the same glances
whether I speak or am silent.
I know I am different.
Why? I ask myself and wish I were you.
I know all that you know,
understand all that you do,
have feelings like yours,
can achieve what you can,
and may be sometimes more.
You ask,
Then why don’t you?
‘coz my way is different and I only know mine.
Do it your way then.
I cannot, I need help, you won’t understand.
Try harder, you say.
I do, I struggle all the time.
I have so much to show you, so much to share
If I only knew how.
And when I do, you’ll be surprised.
LikeLiked by 4 people
October 16, 2020 at 12:41 pm
This is such an empowering view into the world of a child who feels different. Well done!
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October 16, 2020 at 11:30 pm
Thank you.
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October 16, 2020 at 11:17 pm
This hit a part of me that not many get to. It’s beautiful.
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October 16, 2020 at 11:31 pm
Thank you.
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October 16, 2020 at 11:26 pm
Forgot to write, Image #5
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October 17, 2020 at 12:35 am
A think piece for kids! This is such a deep and philosophical work but short and accessible to even young children. Would be great for generating discussion about emotions and internal struggles. @AnneLipton
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October 25, 2020 at 12:19 am
Thank you.
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October 24, 2020 at 9:19 pm
Beautiful, emotional, and powerful! I LOVE the last line.
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October 25, 2020 at 12:19 am
Thank you.
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October 14, 2020 at 1:43 pm
Please forgive me. I just realized that I did NOT finish and put the story in the comments. You have to love when kids come up asking for stuff. SO here it is in the comments, almost 2 weeks late.
THE WITCH’S OWN WAY
Eileen knew she was different from the other witches in her coven. Her coven used hexes to strengthen their magic. Eileen knew there was a better way.
Every time the rest of the coven crowded around their cauldron, Eileen snuck off to a quiet meadow. This is where Eileen practiced protection spells.
One day Matthew, a villager, wandered into the meadow as Eileen was working her magic. When he saw Eileen, he froze from fear. Eileen’s head snapped up for she could feel his presence.
Eileen slowly stood up, “I promise I won’t hurt you.”
Matthew was about to reply when a voice cackled, “Yes, please stay.” From out of the shadows, Eileen’s coven appeared surrounding them.
“Don’t hurt him,” Eileen cried.
“You should be home practicing useful magic, not this pathetic weakness,” the coven mistress spat, “This will teach you to betray us!”
The coven mistress sent a hex flying towards Matthew. Swiftly, Eileen performed a protection spell she had been practicing. The spell sent the hex back towards the coven witches, banishing them to the swamp.
Matthew was so grateful, he brought Eileen back to the village where she lived her days practicing magic her way.
LikeLiked by 5 people
October 16, 2020 at 11:10 pm
From the word, ‘meadows’ to the end, a witch story that will comfort many children. I enjoyed reading it.
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October 16, 2020 at 11:16 pm
Thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed it.
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October 17, 2020 at 12:29 am
A wonderful tale of tolerance, kindness, and generosity. @AnneLipton
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October 18, 2020 at 10:07 am
Thank you!
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October 24, 2020 at 9:24 pm
I love the way Eileen follows her heart! Great story, Ashley!
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October 24, 2020 at 9:27 pm
Thank you! I’m hoping to make a longer version that’s more cohesive. I only had about 45 minutes to write this one.
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October 24, 2020 at 9:29 pm
A longer version sounds exciting. I think you did a wonderful job on this one! Good luck!
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October 25, 2020 at 12:14 am
I love happy endings!!! 🙂
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October 25, 2020 at 12:20 am
Thank you!
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October 12, 2020 at 4:18 am
A very funny and entertaining story with spirited wordplay and a satisfying twist ending. “We’ve squashed their plans!” LOL. @AnneLipton
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October 9, 2020 at 8:20 pm
I love your creativity! Cute story idea! I love how the kids made them into decorations. The pumpkins sounded adorable. Good luck, Blair!
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October 9, 2020 at 7:57 pm
Love your creativity and the catchy Howl-O-Ween voice! They “settled in their den” and clapped “furry paws.” LOL. Fang and Beastie are perfect names for werewolves, and I am over the moon for your line, “‘Aroo,’ howled Fang.” @AnneLipton
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October 7, 2020 at 10:03 am
[…] Fall Writing Frenzy selections are already off to a wonderful start, three matches have already been made by their […]
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October 6, 2020 at 10:54 am
Hi my dear. Just to let you know that I haven’t been able to post anymore comments. Not sure why but pretty sure that it’s just something I’m doing! have a great day.
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October 7, 2020 at 9:49 am
I entered on time but my story seemed to disappeared. It is the Halloween Season after all It is being resubmitted with permission of the the organizers.:
NEVER VEX A PIXIE 199 words based on picture #13
A pixie flew over the forest. “Ah Autumn”
She sprinkled pixie dust. The leaves changed until the forest filled with color. The only green that remained was on evergreens except one stubborn leaf.
“That leaf!” Pixie flew down to it, not noticing a boy hiding. “Transform!”
The leaf shook his head no.
“My final warning…
Leaf blushed red and remained that way.
“Hi, Sy Enz, student scientist here. Leaves color change is chemical. Chlorophyll the chemical that makes food for plants then breaks down. The green disappears when the temperature gets colder and the days get shorter. The other colors that were hidden now appear.”
“No magic,” Pixie said.
“It’s nature.…” Sy said.
“Can’t talk, gotta help animals get ready for winter,” Pixie flapped her wings.
“Animals do it by instinct,” Sy said.
“Hey Mr. Know-it-all, how about this?”Pixie raised her hands and stomped her feet. A shower of dust covered Sy.
“W-w-wait, I’m sorry. Everyone is entitled to believe in magic,¨ Sy croaked as he transformed to a toad.
¨Enjoy, your Autumn then,” Pixie smiled. ¨Bye!¨
Sy didn’t answer. He just hopped away.
“Don’t worry Sy, you’ll change back eventually.”
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October 7, 2020 at 3:48 pm
Ha ha love it. Love the battle of science and magic
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October 15, 2020 at 9:17 am
Thanks Laura! It is a constant battle.
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October 7, 2020 at 8:49 pm
Funny, so did he change back or not? Love it, there’s magic in science.
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October 9, 2020 at 10:10 am
Yes, he changed back. Just not right away, this sprite is spiteful!
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October 8, 2020 at 10:58 pm
Really adorable ending! I love how you snuck science facts into this fiction piece. Wonderful!
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October 15, 2020 at 10:39 am
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it’1
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October 10, 2020 at 1:12 am
Hahaha! Love that magic wins! Big-believer of magic speaking!
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October 10, 2020 at 1:51 pm
Hahaha nice ending. Never talk back to a pixie 😉
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October 10, 2020 at 4:07 pm
Science v. Magic! Great job Denise!
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October 10, 2020 at 8:11 pm
Haha, Love the ending, D!
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October 11, 2020 at 1:06 pm
I love the way you mixed science and magic together. Great ending! Nice!
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October 15, 2020 at 2:40 pm
How fun! Kids will love it.
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October 17, 2020 at 12:23 am
LOL. Looks like Pixie got the last laugh! What a wonderful science lesson with a sweet spoonful of magic—and heaps of good humor. @AnneLipton
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October 5, 2020 at 4:24 pm
The Pumpkin Parade
By Ashley Bray
Crispy brown crunches under the wobbly wheelbarrow.
“Faster!”
Sun kissed kids bound along the garden path.
Their excited squeals echo in the empty air.
Moms and dads lagging behind with the littlest ones.
They have waited all summer.
First fragile flowers,
then shy squash
peaking through green leaves,
And now, glorious garden giants.
Burnt orange to ghoulish pale green.
Leathery, lumpy, bumpy.
Loose leaves swirl in airborne summersaults,
gathering in corners,
and conspiring against the cold.
They have waited all summer.
“Hooray!”
Gleeful children begin their inspection
both meticulous and haphazard.
Knocking, rubbing, rolling, lifting.
“Careful of the stem!”
Cornstalks whistling in approval,
rustling their applause.
Sunflowers droop for a closer view.
Toothy, gaping grins
in the spaces stolen seeds have left behind.
Wagons fill,
Atlantic Giant, Fairytale,
Casper,
Pie.
Each hollow canvas full of possibility.
Will it be
Early King, Funny Face, Big Moon, or
One Too Many?
Finally,
each selection carefully made,
each child’s face smudged and dirty,
tired and content.
It is time to leave,
parents shepherd them away and groan
under the weight of pumpkin plenty.
The field becomes quiet,
light and warmth losing their hold on the land.
The waiting begins again.
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October 6, 2020 at 9:30 am
Ashley, I was in the pumpkin patch right with you.What lovely imagery your wrote. I never knew that there were so many types of pumpkins. I love learning something new!
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October 8, 2020 at 10:38 pm
Such lovely, playful detail. When I was a pre-k teacher, we would field trip to the pumpkin patch every year. On the bus ride back, the kids would all fall asleep. One by one, their heads would bob and their pumpkins would plunk to the floor and roll to the front of the bus. The teachers just scooped up the next pumpkin, wrote the kid’s name with a sharpie, and put it in a basket at the front of the bus. lolol!! Sometimes, it was hard to tell which one belonged to who, because they’d fall asleep at the same time!
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October 10, 2020 at 1:54 pm
Such strong imagery and sense of place! And love the personification of all the autumn plants. You made me feel like I was out at a patch.
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October 10, 2020 at 8:13 pm
Well done, Ashley. You took me back to the pumpkin patch with my little boys!
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October 11, 2020 at 1:04 pm
Love all the beautiful imagery. Makes me feel as if I’m right in the story! Nice!
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October 11, 2020 at 3:04 pm
Loved the atmosphere and imagery of this – I’m based in the UK and haven’t come across this sort of outing to the pumpkin patch to select pumpkins – it sounds lovely!
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October 17, 2020 at 12:19 am
Great Pumpkin story! You really give them personality! Lovely action and language, too. @AnneLIpton
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October 5, 2020 at 3:53 pm
Ten Little Trick o’ Treaters
By Rozana Rajkumari
Ten little trick o’ treaters went out in a line;
The shadow claimed one and then there were Nine.
Nine little trick o’ treaters jumped across a gate;
One got impaled and then there were Eight.
Eight little trick o’ treaters found a raven;
It poked one’s eyes out and then there were Seven.
Seven little trick o’ treaters playing tricks;
One got spooked and then there were Six.
Six little trick o’ treaters went for a drive;
One got crushed and then there were Five.
Five little trick o’ treaters going out for more;
One choked on the candy and then there were Four.
Four little trick o’ treaters passing by the cemetery;
One stayed behind and then there were Three.
Three little trick o’ treaters making a brew;
One fell in the hot cauldron and then there were Two.
Two little trick o’ treaters hiding in an oven;
One was overdone and then there was One.
One little trick o’ treater left all alone;
He walked off a cliff and then there were None.
My entry was inspired by Image #2 (the poem is YA level and above).
WC 176
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October 6, 2020 at 12:48 pm
What a ghoulish update on a classic! W Glad I wasn’t among your trick-or-treaters
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October 6, 2020 at 8:36 pm
A little morbid I admit, thanks for reading! 🙂
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October 7, 2020 at 10:35 am
It fits the mood and theme of the Halloween season and it was my pleasure!
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October 7, 2020 at 3:58 pm
How ghastly! Fabulous!
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October 8, 2020 at 9:41 am
Thank you 🙂
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October 9, 2020 at 9:04 am
This made me laugh out loud! How clever and creepy!!
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October 11, 2020 at 10:43 pm
Glad you enjoyed it, thank you!
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October 10, 2020 at 8:16 pm
Perfectly creepy! I like it:)
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October 11, 2020 at 10:44 pm
Thank you!
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October 11, 2020 at 1:01 pm
Love all the creepy creative ways you found to count down. Perfect for Halloween!
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October 11, 2020 at 10:46 pm
Thank you! I enjoyed counting down too hehehe.
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October 25, 2020 at 2:12 pm
Fantastic! Reminds me of ‘Struwwelpeter’ a little bit. https://www.buzzfeed.com/de/annaaridzanjan/the-most-disturbing-childrens-book-is-from-germany
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October 5, 2020 at 12:44 pm
Love this story, Mia. I just read it aloud, and my little guy wanted to hear more about Fang and Beastie. 🙂 Great ending!
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October 5, 2020 at 4:37 am
Great work! Love it!!!
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October 4, 2020 at 5:59 pm
Green Witch
Claire knew the spell for spring. At the end of winter, she mixed herbs and light, water and warmth into her cauldron. Green steam swirled up from the pot and slowly, slowly, the prairie bloomed into life.
But today was the autumnal equinox. As autumn witches prepared the prairie for winter, the grasses turned gold, then brown, then dusty white. Claire stood in the rustling stalks, her face red as the maple grove.
Claire understood the cycle of the seasons—growing, fullness, fading, rest. She understood the plants withered now so they could grow again in spring. But she felt like she was withering, too.
She cradled a thin stem laden with seed pods and pictured its roots spreading deep under the soil. A thought unfurled. Even through the dead of winter, the prairie must stay alive underground.
So Claire mixed herbs and light, water and warmth, into her cauldron again. Green steam swirled up from the pot and disappeared. But when she held the seeds and brushed her fingers on the ground, she could feel it—a single drop of spring in every seed and every root to keep them warm through the winter.
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October 4, 2020 at 6:06 pm
(Image 12. 195 words.)
Also on my blog! ciaragreenwalt.com/writing
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October 5, 2020 at 9:11 am
Lovely! I like the internal rhyme and use of alliteration. Good job!
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October 5, 2020 at 10:17 am
Your description of Claire’s emotions, actions and understanding of the seasons are so descriptive. I felt Claire’s emotion and her despair of the coming winter but then she did what she had to do for Autumn. Loved that she put a single drop of spring in every see and root so they survived the winter.
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October 5, 2020 at 12:52 pm
Love your story! Your words evoke such imagery.
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October 5, 2020 at 1:01 pm
I love that Claire is a good witch as shown through the hope she is sowing.
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October 5, 2020 at 10:41 pm
The imagery is lovely that you’ve conjured up with your words.
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October 5, 2020 at 11:28 pm
I love this story Ciara! You illustrate so vividly how magical nature is… with and without magic:) Well done and good luck!!
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October 6, 2020 at 9:17 am
Lovely use of language!
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October 6, 2020 at 9:44 am
Wish I had a spell to stay warm through the winter! Great idea for a story, Ciara.
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October 6, 2020 at 11:05 am
What a ghoulish twist and modern update to an old classic. Well done and it gave me the chills.
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October 11, 2020 at 12:58 pm
Beautiful story! I love the seasonal images you create. Nice!
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October 13, 2020 at 1:12 pm
I love the positive message. Apt for out times.
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October 16, 2020 at 11:21 pm
Lovely images and beautiful vocabulary.
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October 17, 2020 at 12:16 am
Such a hopeful, heartwarming, and literary story. You really dug deep into your character and her emotions. @AnneLipton
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October 4, 2020 at 2:42 pm
This is adorable, Blair!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:16 pm
This is such a cute story! Love this!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:06 pm
Gullible Pumpkins
By Anne Weaver
Image #3
Abby had a tendency to be gullible, especially when the McAllister brothers were involved.
So when they found a dusty, leather-bound book at the neighborhood yard sale, the brothers had the perfect prank in the making.
“An old book of Witchcraft Incantations!” they showed Abby. “Totally authentic.”
Abby opened the book. The boys shrieked. “Did you just open directly to page thirty-one?! That’s a curse!”
“Anyone who opens that page turns into… a PUMPKIN. At dusk. On the next Old Hallows Eve!”
Abby’s eyes went wide. The brothers fought back laughter.
Deep down, she knew it was ridiculous. But Abby couldn’t help but wonder if there was truth to the magic.
With thirteen days to Halloween, wonder turned to worry. Her chest tangled tighter with each new pumpkin on the street. By the 31st, Abby was all knots.
She knew the McCallisters might be messing with her. She didn’t even like magic! But she paced and paced just the same. The sky grew darker, until—
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
But it wasn’t Abby who screamed.
She rushed outside. Every pumpkin on the street… HAD COME ALIVE!!! And they were all stampeding after the McAllister brothers.
Perhaps Abby liked magic after all.
LikeLiked by 9 people
October 4, 2020 at 1:34 pm
Halloween magic!
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October 4, 2020 at 2:52 pm
Wahahaha! Run, McAllister brothers! Nice job, Anne!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:06 pm
Fun ending!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:18 pm
Awww, what a cute ending!
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October 4, 2020 at 4:14 pm
Love your great pacing, clever word choices (like “dusty, leather-bound book” and
“stampeding), and the twiste(ed) ending. Your Halloween story serves as a vivid reminder that cursing someone else can come back to haunt you. @AnneLipton
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October 4, 2020 at 7:49 pm
Haha! So funny. I really enjoyed this.
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October 5, 2020 at 10:21 am
Anne, love the twist at the end that the McAllister boys got what they deserved for pulling pranks on Abby. I wonder if that book really what magical or was it just because it is Halloween.
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October 5, 2020 at 1:03 pm
Ha ha! Serves those McAllister brothers right! Fun read. Good luck!
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October 6, 2020 at 9:47 am
Halloween karma. What a fun story!
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October 7, 2020 at 4:19 pm
Great twist!
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October 10, 2020 at 1:53 pm
OOO1O! Sic those mean McAllisters pumpkins! Great ending and imaginative story, Anne
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October 11, 2020 at 12:55 pm
Great Halloween story! Love the Halloween Karma! Nice!
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October 11, 2020 at 3:11 pm
Well written – I could really empathize with Abby’s feelings as she counts down the days until Halloween – then the satisfying ending as the brothers get their just deserts!
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October 4, 2020 at 6:17 am
Blair, this is so cute and such an original. You are so gifted with words and creativity.
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 11:51 pm
Image #8
LEAF JUMP
By Mary Beth Rice
Welcome leaves,
Falling from the trees and blowing in from Neighbor’s yard.
Come one! Come all! Gather for the joyous jump—the wild romp!
Shapes and sizes aplenty;
Creamy yellows…burnt oranges…fiery reds…brittle browns
Jagged edged Oak…soft curvy Viburnum…bright Maple…huge Catalpa.
Rakes in hand,
drag stubbornly across the lawn,
catching acorns, leaves and other debris from long gone summer storms.
Brother and I pull the crunch and color into a huge pile.
Enormous…Massive
Gargantuan!
Next is backing up as far as the fence will allow.
We count.
One Two Three!
Running with abandon—deep dive in!
Hidden from view, but then…
Breaking out as a surprise to ourselves and anyone watching!
Jumping high—fistfuls of leaves tossed in the air,
Landing on the ground with flecks of crimson glitter caught in our hair,
woven in the threads of our sweaters and clinging to our socks
We laugh— deep fearless belly laughs,
Lying in the leaves
Hand in hand.
While the golden leaves, still hugging the Cottonwood, shake in the breeze.
The sound of applause.
Autumn is here!
LikeLiked by 10 people
October 4, 2020 at 4:01 am
Your imagery of an Autumn day is beautiful, loved it.
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October 5, 2020 at 12:39 am
Thank you, Stacey!
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October 4, 2020 at 9:44 am
I love this! Makes me want to go find my own pile to jump through! Nice!
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October 4, 2020 at 9:56 am
Great imagery!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:06 am
Oh my goodness! Beautifully done. Good luck!
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October 4, 2020 at 2:53 pm
That was beautiful, Mary Beth! You took me back to my childhood!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:21 pm
I love your word choices!
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October 4, 2020 at 4:29 pm
The palpable energy of this playful piece is heightened by your gorgeous descriptions and vivid sensory details, especially the contrasts of “creamy yellows” and “brittle brown,” “jagged” and “curvy,” and “the joyous jump—the wild romp” with rakes dragging “stubbornly across the lawn.” I love “flecks of crimson glitter,” too. Brava for such a virtuoso performance. I join in the sound of applause. @AnneLipton
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October 4, 2020 at 7:50 pm
This brings back some fun childhood memories! Thanks for sharing.
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October 5, 2020 at 10:25 am
Your story made me remember that raking Autumn leaves is not a tedious but a time of abandoned play especially for children.
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October 5, 2020 at 11:23 am
Very nice!
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October 5, 2020 at 1:06 pm
Written like a true lover of the changing of the seasons. Thanks for taking us into the experience with your MC.
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October 5, 2020 at 4:58 pm
Lovely imagery. Makes me remember playing in the leaves as a kid!
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October 6, 2020 at 9:49 am
This story evokes so many wonderful fall memories. Beautiful use of language.
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October 6, 2020 at 10:41 am
Beautifully written!
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October 8, 2020 at 12:47 pm
I wrote about this image too and I absolutely love the energy you have infused into your story, Super!
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October 13, 2020 at 1:16 pm
Another #8-er here. Beautifully done!
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October 3, 2020 at 11:14 pm
In October
by Lauren Neil
word count: 194
Misty morning,
Sunshine and shadows.
The road stretches
Like my cat
Waking up from a nap.
The promise of hot apple cider
Lingers
As my breath fogs up the window
And I draw shapes
While my sister sings
A made-up song
About pumpkins.
Are we there yet?
I know we’re close
When we cross the bridge
And the cars line up
Like ants on a log
Inching along
Until we park.
The gravel crunches
And there is orange
So much orange
A mountain of pumpkins
And signs pointing
To the hay ride
And the corn maze
And sand art
And face painting
And pony rides
And flower picking
And ice cream
And hot apple cider.
Mom takes my hand
And we make silly faces
As we pose in the wood cutout
That says “Sweet Fall Farm”.
My sister paints a pumpkin
While I pick out clothes for a scarecrow
And stuff him full of scratchy straw
That makes me sneeze.
The hayride is haunted
With ghosts who go to school
and pick “Boo-berries”.
And soon our feet are dragging
As we buckle up.
Bright sun shining,
The long road stretches
To lead us home.
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October 3, 2020 at 11:15 pm
Forgot to add – Image #10!
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October 4, 2020 at 4:02 am
I love this story, I want to dive into that beautiful day
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October 6, 2020 at 10:50 am
Thank you so much Stacey. It was certainly taken from memories of days like this in the past.
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October 4, 2020 at 9:43 am
Beautiful descriptions! I can picture it all!
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October 6, 2020 at 10:50 am
Thank you so much for your kind words!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:09 am
A child’s delight! I picture them asleep on the way home, with faint smiles on their exhausted faces.
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October 4, 2020 at 3:26 pm
This sounds just like the farm we visited!
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October 6, 2020 at 10:52 am
It is certainly based on our trips to a pumpkin patch in years past. I’m glad you made the connection as well!
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October 4, 2020 at 4:45 pm
Simply magical, right down to the Boo-berries. You cast quite a spell with words, Lauren. I love all your incredible imagery. Your lines, “The road stretches/Like my cat/Waking up from a nap” put me in mind of Sandburg’s famous line “The fog comes on little cat feet.” Did I just compare you to the great American poet Carl Sandburg? Why yes, yes, I did. And I know it’s a well-thought-out piece when I can guess the #FallWritingFrenzy image it draws from without even looking. (I saw later that you posted that it was image #10, as I’d thought.) Keep making magic!
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October 6, 2020 at 10:54 am
Wow. Thank you so much for this. So often we write in a vacuum, wondering if anything we write will ever connect and it’s moments like reading this comment that help keep me going. So thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely comment – it meant the world to me to read your kind words.
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October 4, 2020 at 7:47 pm
Sounds like a great day of fun autumn memories! I love it.
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October 6, 2020 at 10:55 am
Thank you so much! It’s based on a pumpkin patch we’ve gone to every year so definitely taken from happy memories.
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October 5, 2020 at 10:29 am
Who doesn’t enjoy spending the day enjoying the colored leaves, hayrides, pumpkins, apple cider and so much more when going to Sweet Fall Farm or any far. Your story celebrates Autumn fun!
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October 6, 2020 at 10:55 am
Thank you for your kind words. We go to a pumpkin patch like this every year so it was fun to relive the memory and share it here. 🙂
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October 5, 2020 at 1:08 pm
This sounds much more elaborate and much more fun than any of our pumpkin picking experiences. Great job taking us along for the ride!
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October 6, 2020 at 10:56 am
Thank you Colleen! It is based on a farm we go to every year and it actually has all of those activities (and more! – yes, it’s kind of bananas, but so much fun for the kids!). It was fun to relive the memories and share them here.
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October 7, 2020 at 3:32 pm
It would be a lot of fun to experience!
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October 5, 2020 at 5:00 pm
All the colors, smells, tastes and images of Fall! Beautiful!
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October 6, 2020 at 10:57 am
Thank you so much Judy. I’m glad you connected with all of the sensory language. Fall is such a wonderful time of year for the senses. 🙂
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October 6, 2020 at 9:51 am
You packed a lot of great images and autumn activities into this lovely piece!
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October 6, 2020 at 10:57 am
Thank you Connie! It was fun to share this here and I’m so happy to hear it resonated with you. 🙂
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October 10, 2020 at 1:57 pm
Your story is so sensory, Lauren! I especially enjoyed your similes–road stretches like my cat and cars line up like ants on a log. Great writing!
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October 14, 2020 at 11:19 am
Thank you so much Jill! I really appreciate you taking the time to comment. 🙂
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October 11, 2020 at 3:13 pm
Lovely!
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October 14, 2020 at 11:20 am
Thank you so much Claire! 🙂
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October 16, 2020 at 11:36 pm
Your piece is loaded with memories children can relate to. Lovely.
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October 27, 2020 at 10:52 am
Thank you so much Farida!
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October 27, 2020 at 2:05 pm
Thank you so much.
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October 3, 2020 at 10:50 pm
TRICK OR TREAT GANG
By: Andrew Fairchild
“You guys ready for tonight?” Melody whispered.
“Ms. Winters,” Ms. Spellman shouted, scratching on the blackboard. “I hear and see EVERYTHING.”
She whirled around. Her fiery hair piled atop a pointy head and piercing eyes shielded by enormous spectacles perched at the tip of her nose.
Suddenly the bell rang.
“Happy Halloween.” Ms. Spellman smirked as we all darted out of her class, covering our eyes.
“WOW! That was creepy.” Melody’s voice quivered.
“I felt like she was trying to read my mind.” Anthony said.
Max laughed. “Come on guys. Ms. Spellman is not a witch.”
“Ok Max,” Beverly said looking down at him. “Then you can trick or treat her house – alone.”
“I’m not scared,” Max replied. “You will see…”
That night, Beverly decided Ms. Spellman’s house would be first.
“Does anybody live here?” Melody asked.
The house dark, a faint light flickered through a shattered window. Tracks of missing children trailed through the withered grass.
“STOP SHOVING!” Max said. “I’m going!”
“We’ll wait right here,” Anthony said.
Max suddenly disappeared into the tall maze.
“Where is he?” Melody panicked.
Max cried out, it was the type of scream that made your blood run cold.
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October 4, 2020 at 4:04 am
What a cliffhanger…I want to read the rest.
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October 4, 2020 at 10:47 am
I might have to work on that. Thank you.
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October 4, 2020 at 9:42 am
Wow! The perfect scary story!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:45 am
Thank you Jill.
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October 4, 2020 at 10:11 am
Spooky! Good luck.
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October 4, 2020 at 10:45 am
Thank you SO MUCH for taking the time to read my story.
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October 4, 2020 at 2:57 pm
“Tracks of missing children trailed through the withered grass, ” nice, creepy line! Love it:)
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October 4, 2020 at 4:53 pm
Such authentic dialogue. Reads like a screenplay! @AnneLipton
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October 4, 2020 at 7:49 pm
Creepy, suspenseful fun, Andrew! (Hopefully you never had a teacher like Ms. Spellman!) So what happens next? Hopefully this is to be continued …
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October 4, 2020 at 7:51 pm
Yikes! Scary ending. My second grade teacher was just like this, lol.
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October 5, 2020 at 1:10 pm
Somehow I knew it was not going to end well for poor Max. Good luck!
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October 5, 2020 at 5:10 pm
Wow! This took a dark turn I wasn’t expecting. Great cliffhanger ending.
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October 6, 2020 at 9:52 am
I want to read more!
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October 6, 2020 at 11:11 am
Oh no! What happened to Max? Is Ms. Spellman really a witch? You left too many questions unanswered. Hope you’re busy writing.
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October 7, 2020 at 4:22 pm
Eek
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October 8, 2020 at 12:50 pm
ohhh! love being left to guess what happens next.
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October 9, 2020 at 12:08 am
This gave me “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” vibes! Perhaps Ms. Spellman is a long lost aunt. Also, you named one of your characters “Beverly” and not Everly! Is Beverly making a comeback that I don’t know about? : )
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October 11, 2020 at 10:48 pm
Creepy and a perfect setting!
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October 3, 2020 at 10:48 pm
“Becoming Lycanthrope, Again” – image #13
By Elizabeth Steiner
“Going back isn’t easy,” flinging his chin right then coming towards me eagerly. “The pack isn’t forgiving.”
Sucking in the sharp smell of him, “You knew I wouldn’t stay.” Looking at my hands, turning them over, studying, “Too domesticating here.”
“Fine. Go West,” he snarls. “Walk until the Oaks and Sweetgums go orange. Walk until the Longleaf and Loblolly give way to the rise of mountains. When you find the Cedars in the craggy soil, damp with clouds, you’ve made it. IF you get to the Cedars, the journey will do most of the work. But it’ll take more time, more becoming before the smell of this place, this life gives way…” His voice breaking,
“If you survive a year then maybe they’ll accept you back.” Emphasizing the “they’ll” with the distinctive rise of the chin, the elongated neck, the reared shoulders. He shudders at his own muscle memory taking over. His mind wanting to forget what his body can’t. There is a howling in the distance but I can’t be certain.
Looking West, “I’m sorry, really. We’re not, I’m not…made for this world. We both knew that.” Certain now, I begin the becoming at a sprint.
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October 4, 2020 at 4:05 am
Wow, I would love to know what happens next!
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October 5, 2020 at 1:31 pm
Thank you!
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October 4, 2020 at 9:39 am
I love this! Nice!
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October 5, 2020 at 1:38 pm
Thank you, Jill!
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October 4, 2020 at 5:05 pm
This richly layered tale reads like a legend or myth and conveys such a palpable sense of otherness and alienation. Also, I first read the last word as “spirit,” and honestly, I think that works, too. Especially after the “I’m not . . . made for this world.” Preternaturally good. @AnneLIpton
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October 5, 2020 at 1:44 pm
Thank you, Anne! And I just re-read it and “spirit” was what my brain read too. The imagination gets what it wants, I suppose;) Thank you for your kindness and read.
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October 4, 2020 at 6:40 pm
Great voice!
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October 5, 2020 at 1:12 pm
What a great narrative. I love your imagery and mood. Well done.
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October 6, 2020 at 9:51 pm
Thank you!
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October 7, 2020 at 10:27 am
Ooooh! I would love to read more!
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October 9, 2020 at 12:11 am
I’m imagining two cats or two wolves talking. So fun and creative!
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October 13, 2020 at 10:52 am
It never easy to leave your family (or pack in this case) to be independent. Sometimes you have to make it on your own especially if you don’t fit in. Is this a test all (I assume) werewolves have to go through?
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October 3, 2020 at 10:29 pm
(Inspired by Image #2 197 words)
THE END IS NEAR
By Cindy Williams Schrauben
Charlie picked dried glue out from under her splintered fingernails, checked the clock again, and calculated the time until the inevitable eruption.
In approximately two hours, fifty-six minutes and twenty-two seconds, I will be ejected helplessly through that crater (also known as the door to my fifth grade classroom). No time-lapse, no control, and no turning back.
But, that wasn’t the worst of Charlie’s worries. After a quick seventy-six day dormant period, she would be plunged into Lake Kitt Middle — a school infamous for pressure, chaos, and judgement (hence, it’s nickname The Snake Pit. Though Charlie would have named it Arm Pit for its stench alone). It felt as if death was staring her in the face.
As usual, she planned to slip into the lunch line quickly, grab a piece of pizza, and bolt to her quiet corner in the art room. She counted the floor tiles from her classroom to the cafeteria. Beginning at 54¾ as usual, she ensured that the toe of her Chucks landed squarely in the center of each tile. Even that didn’t keep her from fretting over the fix she was in.
She had only made it to tile # 23 when …
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October 4, 2020 at 4:07 am
You describe Charlie’s anxiety so well. Lovely story!
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October 4, 2020 at 9:29 am
This is great! It leaves me wanting more!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:03 pm
Cindy, you got me. If only this was a 1000 word contest!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:09 pm
The suspense is killing me!
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October 4, 2020 at 5:49 pm
Your spot-on descriptions and thoughtful details take us to school and bring Charlie to life! @AnneLipton
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October 5, 2020 at 12:32 am
I felt like I was back in junior high again. Charlie’s angst is real. I want to read more!
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October 5, 2020 at 1:15 pm
What is next for poor Charlie? Does she even make it to middle school? I want to know what happens next as well.
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October 6, 2020 at 4:20 pm
Suspense and a cliffhanger! Terrific buildup–more please.
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October 7, 2020 at 10:29 am
Wow. A lot of amazing concepts packed into this story. Well done!
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October 13, 2020 at 10:56 am
Oh my, poor Charli! Going to a new school is always tough. I would love to read what happens at tile # 23!
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October 16, 2020 at 11:41 pm
There is rising tension in the story. I cannot wait to find out what happens next!
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October 3, 2020 at 9:42 pm
The haunted Forest by Jill Burns Image #6
Into the haunted forest I flee.
I must run faster.
Rumbling and roaring they’re after me.
I must run faster.
Like creamy dark ink, the fog hides my path.
I must run faster.
The monsters are gaining–I’ll soon feel their wrath.
I must run faster.
Hot on my heels, their sizzling stench burns.
I must run faster.
I’m twisting past trees and tripping through turns.
I must run faster.
A blood curdling shriek escapes from my lips.
I must run faster.
Claws tear through my flesh from my neck to my hips.
I must run faster.
I choke and I gasp as the ground turns blood red.
I must run faster.
The monsters are feasting and now I’m quite dead.
Did I run faster?
“Yes! Nine seconds faster…new record!,” I chime.
I did run faster!
When I scare myself silly it works every time.
LikeLiked by 12 people
October 3, 2020 at 9:45 pm
Yikes! This did not post right.
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October 7, 2020 at 4:25 pm
Ha ha love the beat running through and the twist at the end. Very entertaining.
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October 11, 2020 at 2:35 pm
Thank you so much, Laura!
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October 4, 2020 at 4:12 am
Love this story, the urgency in the words.
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October 4, 2020 at 8:15 am
Thank you so much, Stacey!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:01 am
Ha. I love it!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:53 pm
Thank you, Cindy
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October 4, 2020 at 11:35 am
Great. love the building of the story, and the increasing of pace, and just as I was thinking, dwelling on the gruesome line a happy unexpected twist arrived. Nice idea.
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October 4, 2020 at 3:54 pm
Thank you so much!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:20 pm
Funny twist ending! Cool!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:56 pm
Thank you so much!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:36 pm
What a twist to the ending!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:59 pm
Thank you!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:11 pm
Creepy, yet funny!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:51 pm
Thank you, Karyn!
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October 4, 2020 at 5:51 pm
The ending made me LOL! @AnneLipton
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October 4, 2020 at 6:04 pm
Glad it made you laugh, Anne! 🙂
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October 4, 2020 at 7:50 pm
Great surprise ending! I loved it!
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October 5, 2020 at 12:24 pm
Thank you, Kathy!
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October 4, 2020 at 11:09 pm
Good runner’s tip! LOL. And a nine-second gain in a race is awesome!!!
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October 5, 2020 at 12:38 pm
Thanks, Michelle! If I actually had monsters chasing me, I’d probably freeze. LOL
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October 5, 2020 at 2:15 am
Great inspirational twist! I do that to reach my goals too. Not with running but writing, swimming and other things! Good luck, Jill!
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October 5, 2020 at 12:40 pm
Thank you so much, Ranjeeta! That’s great that you do that with your other goals. Good luck to you, Ranjeeta!
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October 5, 2020 at 6:00 am
This is SO well done! Your vivid description and use of repetition made for a suspenseful read, and then the ending was really clever.
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October 5, 2020 at 12:48 pm
Thank you so much for your kind words, Jennifer! Good luck to you!
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October 5, 2020 at 9:13 am
This had me hanging on the edge of my seat from the first line. Great job!!
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October 5, 2020 at 12:53 pm
Thank you so much, Tara. Good luck to you!
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October 5, 2020 at 11:17 am
The sense of urgency just pulls you right in! The ending was actually a bit of a relief.
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October 5, 2020 at 12:59 pm
Thank you so much, Dianna. Good luck to you!
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October 5, 2020 at 1:17 pm
Oh my goodness! That child has a strange way of motivating herself. Great job building the suspense, but ending on a positive note! Good luck!
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October 11, 2020 at 2:37 pm
Thank you Colleen! Good luck to you!
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October 5, 2020 at 2:15 pm
Like sitting on a roller coaster, I felt terrified for most of the ride but then came that welcome relief. That was fun! Thank you and good luck.
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October 11, 2020 at 2:38 pm
Thank you for your kind words! Good luck to you!
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October 7, 2020 at 10:31 am
Great buildup to a wonderful ending!
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October 11, 2020 at 2:44 pm
Thank you so much, Connie!
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October 12, 2020 at 4:36 pm
Great story, Jill. The rhythm of story works perfectly with the context, just like running. It is suspenseful, fun to read, and has the perfect ending. I love it.
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October 19, 2020 at 4:05 pm
Thank you for your kind words, Linda!
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October 13, 2020 at 11:00 am
The refrain I must run faster really amped the terror and urgency the runner faced. I really thought the runner was a goner until the last few lines.
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October 19, 2020 at 4:06 pm
Thank you so much, Denise!
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October 13, 2020 at 3:21 pm
WOW! I was blown away by the creepiness, the urgency and the pace. Loved your details and brilliant ending – nice work!
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October 19, 2020 at 4:07 pm
Thank you so much for your kind words, Jen.
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October 3, 2020 at 9:32 pm
Autumn’s Treasure
by Carla Bourne
Inspired by Image #5
Treasures were always found before breakfast-time. Autumn could sense it in the crisp breeze that tangled her curls. The leaves crackled in agreement as she trampled them under her boots.
Yesterday’s prize had been slightly bruised candy sweet apples. They’d been ripped down by night storms whose turbulence marked the changing seasons. Last week, clambering into tree forks revealed a camouflaged squirrel drey. The cache was overflowing. The busy boarder probably had not missed the few nuts she’d flinched.
Today, the skeletal arms of the giant Maple tree beckoned her. Its large trunk grew increasingly imposing as she approached. The tree had shed its brilliant red coat earlier than usual and the leaves formed a carpet spread out from the base. As she looked up, the entire sky was broken into little patches through the bare limbs. Something drifted down towards her as she squinted against the glare. Her little fingers reached up in anticipation. It was the last of the magnificent Maple’s leaf-fall.
Her mother’s voice calling her for breakfast caught her attention. She drew her treasure closer, inhaling the woody scent. Autumn hoped that pancakes drenched in warm maple syrup would be waiting for her inside.
LikeLiked by 7 people
October 4, 2020 at 4:16 am
Lovely, I especially loved ‘whose turbulence marked the changing seasons’.
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October 4, 2020 at 9:26 am
Beautiful descriptions! I love the way you captured the last leaf of the season!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:06 pm
That was really nice, Carla. Beautiful descriptive writing:)
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October 4, 2020 at 5:57 pm
You pack so much delicious description into so few words. Glad Autumn secured her magnificent treasure. Hope she piles up the pancakes, too. @AnneLipton
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October 5, 2020 at 1:19 pm
Excellent use of details.
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October 7, 2020 at 10:35 am
Wonderful images encompassing all of the senses, as you evoke the magic of the fall season.
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October 3, 2020 at 9:31 pm
Image 15 – Diwali
My Dear Child,
You asked a great question: Will Diwali happen in 2020? I had to think long and hard about this. Given the disasters of the world, our nations, and our home life, all we seem to focus on is the darkness enveloping us. But you deserve a ray of hope. The answer is yes. We may not be able to gather at the temple before dawn, house-hop all day, or share sweets and snacks with our loved ones. But, yes, we will celebrate Diwali this year.
We will celebrate the victory of good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. We must revitalize our minds and hearts. Let us light diya this Diwali as a reminder to exhaust ourselves, to spread our inner light. With your inspiration, our family will recount all forms of wealth: health, strength, community support, love, and new beginnings…because lately, it has been easy to forget our blessings.
My child, your eyes shine with a fire to swallow darkness. Project that burning energy into the world – your illuminating spirit will guide us forward. We will celebrate especially this year, for you are our hope, our light, our wealth.
With All My Love,
Maa
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October 3, 2020 at 10:55 pm
That is so beautiful!
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October 4, 2020 at 12:02 am
We need hope and light. This is beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
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October 4, 2020 at 4:21 am
What a lovely story!
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October 4, 2020 at 6:01 am
I love the important sentiments behind this and the gentle, inspiring way you have expressed them! Good luck in the contest!
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October 4, 2020 at 9:24 am
I love this and the hope that it brings! Beautiful!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:07 am
This is very powerful. 🙂
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October 4, 2020 at 3:08 pm
“My child, your eyes shine with a fire to swallow darkness” beautiful, Brinda!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:37 pm
This is such a heartfelt letter and I think it resonates with parents everywhere! We’re all trying our best-in the middle of a pandemic-to make our children feel special and loved on holidays and birthdays. We all need some positivity right now. Thanks for writing this!
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October 7, 2020 at 4:28 pm
Beautiful and so important. Well done.
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October 4, 2020 at 6:03 pm
Such an original, epistolary entry! This heartfelt letter shines as a beautiful “reminder” to every reader “to spread our inner light,” a perfect sentiment for Diwali. @AnneLipton
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October 4, 2020 at 7:52 pm
Lovely and inspirational – thank you!
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October 4, 2020 at 7:54 pm
Beautiful! I think we definitely need light this year. Thanks for sharing.
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October 5, 2020 at 1:21 pm
What a beautiful letter/note, filled with much needed inspiration.
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October 8, 2020 at 10:16 am
Beautiful format of a mother writing a loving letter to a child.
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October 8, 2020 at 10:18 am
This piece evokes so many feelings about being separated from families during this unsettling time. Very nice!
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October 16, 2020 at 11:44 pm
Beautiful!
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October 3, 2020 at 8:38 pm
A Leaving Potion
Darci Nielson
This potion has to work! Aunt Jilly’s done so much for us this summer and now she needs us. She needs us to remind her not to leave. She just has to stay.
A leaf from the maple tree that shaded our backyard picnics.
A thread from the porch swing pillow, our favorite reading spot.
A spoonful of her “soul warming” ginger tea that I just learned to love.
She says, “Fall is a good time for new beginnings.”
I don’t agree.
Fall is a good time for staying put and settling in.
So this potion has to work, even though I can’t fit the miles of trails we hiked or the gallons of ice cream we ate or the millions of stars we wished on. And how could I fit a belly laugh into a cauldron?
Pinning all my hopes on the magic created in a dollar store Halloween decoration might be the most foolish thing I’ve done. But Aunt Jilly wouldn’t think so. She’d say, “It’s brave to reach for what you want.”
I squeeze the pot to my belly. A tear splats on the black rim. Right now, being brave feels a lot like letting go.
LikeLiked by 9 people
October 4, 2020 at 4:17 am
What a wonderful, heartfelt story.
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October 4, 2020 at 9:22 am
This is such a sweet story! “It’s brave to reach for what you want.” I love this!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:10 pm
I’m not crying, you are! Darci, that was lovely.
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October 4, 2020 at 3:12 pm
Such a poignant and beautiful story!
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October 4, 2020 at 6:24 pm
What a heartwarming notion to make an Autumn “LEAVING POTION” And I sure do hope it has some STAYING power—because your narrator gives us so many feels that now I miss Aunt Jilly, too! @AnneLipton
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October 4, 2020 at 6:55 pm
This is lovely! I love how the potion is made from really meaningful things to deepen the connection and reinforce the bond between our witch and Aunt Jilly!
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October 4, 2020 at 11:53 pm
Wow. So honestly heartfelt. Bravo.
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October 5, 2020 at 1:24 pm
I love the memories of Aunt Jilly she puts into the pot, as well as the ones she says she cannot. What a great tribute to a loved one.
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October 16, 2020 at 11:46 pm
Love the ending line! Heat wrenching story.
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October 3, 2020 at 8:21 pm
By Shannon Hall
141 words
A Reckoning
They never invite me to play hopscotch on the playground.
I wasn’t good enough for Mary’s sleepover.
They say my clothes are weird and bugs follow wherever I go.
I run barefoot in the woods.
The Earth pulses and vibrates through the soles of my feet.
The wind lifts me gently, and the sun radiates through my veins.
But we’re not all witches of the wood.
Some of us know that wolfsbane and mandrake root are more than simple herbs.
Some of us hide books beneath our beds, and collect rain water under the full moonlight.
Unluckily for you, you’re my new lab partner.
Come, sit. Hold this vessel and read the incantation, rather, the instructions, on the back.
Be sure to repeat them three times so we make no mistakes.
Our teacher will be proud.
We are studying Transformative Science, after all.
LikeLiked by 7 people
October 4, 2020 at 4:22 am
I love your descriptive language.
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October 4, 2020 at 9:21 am
Beautiful! I agree with Stacey! Nice!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:13 pm
Very imaginative story!
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October 7, 2020 at 4:30 pm
Very nice, I really connected with your character.
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October 4, 2020 at 6:34 pm
“Read the incantation, rather, the instructions” LOL. I love your pithy exploration of the intersection of nature, science, and magic. Your story is an awesome reminder of how one person can be many different things, need not be defined by how others see them, and may transform on the basis of their surroundings or by something as simple as slipping on a lab coat. @AnneLipton
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October 5, 2020 at 1:25 pm
I want to her her friend! I would invite her to my sleepover!
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October 6, 2020 at 12:38 pm
Ooo. I love the blurred lines and mystery. “The earth vibrates through the soles of my feet”. Amazing!
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October 3, 2020 at 8:18 pm
I loved getting out of my PB wheelhouse to try something totally different! Thank you, Kaitlyn and Lydia, for this wonderful community building and creative opportunity! My entry was inspired by Image #6.
BREADCRUMBS
by Melissa Coffey
I held the envelope, trembling.
There in Mom’s neat cursive was my name. The way she’d written it a thousand times before.
On the tags of every sweatshirt. The front pages of my books. The little heart-shaped notes she would sneak in my lunch box—until I got embarrassed and told her to stop.
I wasn’t supposed to be reading the letter. Not yet.
Dearest Jacob,
As you leave me now to sprint your soul’s moss lined trail…
My wish is not that I have given you enough breadcrumbs
to find your way back.
But that I have shown you how to plant, harvest and thresh.
That I have taught you how to sift and knead.
So that when others mistake stale crusts for truth,
you will steer clear the world’s gingerbread house of lies.
You, my son, will find your own way to rise.
For we need no wicked witches. We create our own cages.
Have courage, my beloved, though the future may seem feral.
Forge on though the brambles cut your feet.
And with open heart, break life’s bread.
Love always,
Mom
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October 4, 2020 at 4:18 am
I love this, so intriguing!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:08 am
Thank you, Stacey!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:38 am
Beautiful imagery!
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October 4, 2020 at 12:45 pm
Thanks so much!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:56 am
Beautiful, heartfelt story! Nice!
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October 4, 2020 at 12:48 pm
Thank you, Jill!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:28 pm
Lyrical
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October 4, 2020 at 7:16 pm
🙂 🙂 🙂
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October 4, 2020 at 6:42 pm
Love this fresh, modern, and epistolary take on a fairy tale with such delicious description. Reads like the beginning of a brave hero’s journey. @AnneLipton
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October 4, 2020 at 7:18 pm
Wow! Thank you, Anne, for such encouraging, kind feedback! Image #6 begged for a twist on Hansel and Gretel. 😉
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October 4, 2020 at 6:58 pm
This gave me chills! What a beautiful blessing to give to a young adult ready to meet the world.
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October 4, 2020 at 7:19 pm
So glad it resonated emotionally for you, Ciara! Thank you!
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October 4, 2020 at 7:56 pm
This is just gorgeous writing. I went back and read it again. Great job!
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October 4, 2020 at 11:29 pm
Thank you, Melissa, so much for the kind words and reading it twice!
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October 5, 2020 at 11:23 am
Melissa, now you have me wondering about Jacob’s journey and is it happening before he was ready. Eager to read more!
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October 5, 2020 at 11:37 am
Thank you, Denise! I usually write PBs so this was a definite departure. Wishing everyone good luck on their entries!
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October 7, 2020 at 4:32 pm
Just fabulous, I got a little shiver reading this. Loved it.
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October 13, 2020 at 3:36 pm
What a beautiful letter from a mother to a son. I can feel the strength and fierce love coming through. Well done!
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October 16, 2020 at 11:50 pm
Love how the title and the words and images are all linked creating an ultimate wish a mother can wish a child.
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October 3, 2020 at 7:49 pm
Excited to have joined in at the last minute! Thanks for organizing such a fun opportunity to connect with other kidlit folks. Here’s my entry:
It Was An Accident (inspired by image 7)
I never meant to be a skeleton. It was an accident.
It all started when Danny dared me up the tree behind our house but didn’t say which one. I thought he meant the rotting one? It was an accident.
And of course I never meant to tell my mom but it was my turn to set the table and I couldn’t not say ow at least a little bit. It was an accident.
I was going to be a zombie cause a full body cast would be the coolest so my mom bought lots of bandages last month to make my costume but it turns out I don’t really like having a cast, even just on my arm. So the zombie idea…it was an accident.
Pick a costume; stick to it. That’s the house rule. But have you ever seen an x-ray of a bone? I promise I’ll never change ideas again. It was an accident.
Pretty cool accident, right?
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October 4, 2020 at 4:19 am
What a fun story!
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October 13, 2020 at 12:11 am
Thanks so much, Stacey!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:54 am
Pretty cool accident! This is so cute, Chiara!
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October 13, 2020 at 12:13 am
Thank you, Jill! 🙂
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October 4, 2020 at 2:27 pm
Life is an accident!
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October 13, 2020 at 12:13 am
Isn’t it though!
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October 4, 2020 at 6:51 pm
A bone-chilling cautionary tale! @AnneLIpton
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October 13, 2020 at 12:15 am
Lol, thanks, Anne!
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October 13, 2020 at 2:07 pm
Glad that your MC character got to wear a Halloween costume they liked. But I say ouch I broke my arm last year and it really hurt!
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October 13, 2020 at 3:38 pm
Haha – very fun!
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October 3, 2020 at 7:23 pm
Such a fun contest, thank you so much for hosting it! Here is my entry:
********************************************************************************
SUNNY, THE ITSY-BITSY BEE
By Sylvia Chen
(Image 14, 199 words)
No bee team chose Sunny on Field Day.
“She’s too itsy-bitsy to help us win!” they droned.
Sunny’s antennae flopped, but soon enough, she shook her wings.
She’d compete as a one-bee-team!
Sunny zoomed about for all legs of the Bee-lay Race…
…but couldn’t keep up.
She jumped and tumbled so many times for the Hive-stacle Course…
…that she grew too dizzy.
She pulled super hard for Tug-of-Swarms…
…but…
Zz-wwiiiiinnggg…!
Up Sunny flung as the winners whooped “Too itsy-bitsy!”
So she flew off…
…and hid in a field far, far away.
Sunny’s eyes stung—only one game remained.
How could she win when she’d lost so much?
But B-zzz-zup!
Sunny hustled—she’d finish the Blossom Hunt first!
Bzz-zzz-z…
Sunny sipped with sweet glee as she spotted all the flowers.
All but one.
Sunny slumped and stared off…
Was she too itsy-bitsy?
Just then, her antennae stood at attention.
Oh! A colossal blossom!
Sunny buzzed back and wowed the whole hive—she was the only bee who’d searched far and hard enough to find a giant sunflower!
As all the bees whooped her up, Sunny bopped about.
She might be itsy-bitsy. But…
…teamed up or not…
…she sure was mighty.
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October 3, 2020 at 7:40 pm
Rooting for itsy-bitsy. She is so gutsy 🙂
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October 4, 2020 at 2:57 am
Oh, thanks so much @sacharya78!
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October 3, 2020 at 9:39 pm
I loved reading your story! It was filled with fun quips and humor, but still managed to create a strong and endearing character. I especially enjoyed your witty use of bee terms: Bee-lay Race, Tug-of-Swarms, how the other bees droned (meaning to complain), etc. Great story!
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October 4, 2020 at 2:58 am
Thank you @kathychalas! So fun to write 🙂
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October 4, 2020 at 4:23 am
Love your play on words, just bee-tiful!
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October 4, 2020 at 4:25 am
Aw, thank you!! 🙂
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October 4, 2020 at 10:44 am
Yay, Sunny!!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:14 pm
Thanks for cheering her on! 🙂
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October 4, 2020 at 10:49 am
I love Sunny’s attitude! Cute and clever story!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:14 pm
Thanks so much!
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October 4, 2020 at 5:44 pm
This would make an adorable PB! Loved all the bee word play.
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October 4, 2020 at 9:44 pm
Thank you – so glad you liked it!
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October 4, 2020 at 6:58 pm
Field Day for bees! Such an original idea. I love all the inventive events you devised for them to play. Sunny is a brilliant name for a bee, and she has so much spirit, we are rooting for her from the moment she shakes off her wings.
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October 4, 2020 at 9:46 pm
Aw, your comments are so nice to hear, thank you for rooting for Sunny! 🙂
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October 5, 2020 at 10:34 am
Sunny might be itsy-bitsy but she never gave up.A great message that even of you’re small you can accomplish things.
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October 6, 2020 at 1:07 am
Glad you like the message and Sunny’s persistence!
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October 12, 2020 at 5:28 pm
I bee-lieve you did a great job writing this. It’s a nice story that is punny and fun to read and has a satisfying ending. Yea, for Sunny!
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October 13, 2020 at 2:06 am
Thank you Linda for your comment, so happy you liked it!
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October 13, 2020 at 3:42 pm
Love this story of determination! Go Sunny!
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October 14, 2020 at 4:08 am
Thanks for supporting Sunny! Glad you enjoyed her story!
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October 16, 2020 at 11:53 pm
Itsy-bitsy is so lovable. Enjoyed the fun and humor in the writing.
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October 18, 2020 at 6:07 am
Thanks so much Farida!
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October 3, 2020 at 7:05 pm
Purple Smoke
Everyone in the town of Belleville knew that on Halloween night, you get the best treats from the House of Candy. They opened at 8pm and Jim and Tommy wanted first pick. The two raced down the road carrying half filled trick-or-treat bags slung over their shoulders.
“Hey Tommy, let’s go through the park. It’s faster,” urged Jim.
“I don’t think we should. It’s too dark and scary” replied Tommy.
“Come on, don’t be such a scaredy cat,” said Jim.
They eased along the dark path through the park shoulder to shoulder. The whistling sound of the wind through the trees was their only company.
“Look over there,” pointed Tommy. “Do you see that purple smoke?”
“Let’s go see what it is. Maybe it’s something fun they are doing at the House of Candy,” said Jim moving closer.
“No Jim, come back!” shouted Tommy.
Suddenly from out of the purple haze a figure emerged blocking Jim’s path.
“Run,” screamed Tommy. “It’s a clown with fangs!”
As they both ran, they could hear the heavy beating of their hearts in their ears and the echo of a voice shouting, “HAPPY HALLOWEEN! YOU MISSED THE CANDY!”
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October 4, 2020 at 4:25 am
What a lovely spooky story and a fun ending.
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October 4, 2020 at 10:44 am
Great Halloween story! Cute ending!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:16 pm
Spooky!
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October 3, 2020 at 7:03 pm
I thought I’d posted mine yesterday morning, but I’m not seeing it! Oh, well. Here’s my second try.
MIGRATION
by Jennifer A. Richter
198 words
Image 10
“So, Nyla, what’s the final count?” Grandpa asks on our way home from Hawk Watch Ridge. He’s driving slower than usual, which is fine by me. I’m in no rush.
“Okay, here’s the top five,” I say, and clear my throat. “Over three days we saw 15 Cooper’s Hawks, 36 Bald Eagles, 75 Sharp-shinned Hawks, 62 Turkey Vultures and…”
Grandpa drums his hands on the steering wheel like he does every year.
“…180 Red-tailed Hawks!”
We both pump our fists, like always. Only this time I’ve got a lump in my throat. We ride in silence until Grandpa breaks it: “So, all packed?”
“Mm-hmm.” I turn away to look at the golden trees out my window, trying to convince myself that change is good.
“Be sure to send me videos and pictures of all those exotic birds down there in Florida. Especially the Roseate Spoonbills. They’re neat.”
“Sure.”
When we get home I see the moving truck has arrived. Believe it or not, the company’s logo is a soaring hawk. Grandpa points and laughs.
“Ready for *your* fall migration?”
I chuckle, even though I know I’m not just migrating for the season.
Boy, I truly envy those birds.
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October 4, 2020 at 4:26 am
Lovely story!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:43 am
Beautiful, heartfelt story! I love your last line!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:32 pm
The ending makes you wish you could migrate like the birds, and return home.
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October 4, 2020 at 3:17 pm
Aw, this is sweet. I felt the connection between the two. Nice job, Jrichter!
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October 4, 2020 at 7:01 pm
What a powerful connection between Nyla and grandpa!
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October 4, 2020 at 7:07 pm
Birds of a feather. You write such authentic dialogue and interaction between the two characters. The bird names/STEM elements are a lovely bonus. Tender and heartwarming/breaking. @AnneLipton
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October 4, 2020 at 11:47 pm
This would make a wonderful beginning to a MG story. Well done!
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October 3, 2020 at 6:52 pm
Thanks so much for sponsoring this fun opportunity! Here is my story.
Are These My Socks?
Image 1
190 words
Are These My Feet?
Looking down, they appear to be at the end of my legs. But I don’t recognize these socks!
Some of my favorite things are waiting there. For me?
Tea for comfort; a book to take me away. Pumpkins and autumn leaves. A blanket, in case I get cold.
But, the question remains – are these my feet?
Could they, perhaps, be feet that have passed this way before? Stood on this very same spot? Could they be my mother’s or grandmother’s feet? Leading me forward; down the same steps, sharing the legacy of tea and books and love of all things autumn?
Could these be their feet?
Or, perhaps, will these be my daughter’s feet?
They are very little feet, still, but one day they will be like mine. Will they follow in my footsteps? Will she love tea and books, pumpkins and autumn leaves?
These feet look like they are about to tiptoe down those steps; settle down with that cup of tea and enjoy that book on a beautiful autumn day.
If these aren’t my feet, then I really need to find out where to get those socks!
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October 3, 2020 at 11:10 pm
haha! I love the last line!
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October 4, 2020 at 4:27 am
I love this story full of wonderful questions.
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October 4, 2020 at 10:41 am
I love this! Such a beautiful way to look at life! Cute ending!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:17 pm
Love this!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:19 pm
What a cool take on that image and you made me laugh:) Nice job, Dianna!
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October 9, 2020 at 12:41 pm
Thanks so much! It was my goal 🙂
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October 4, 2020 at 7:36 pm
As a neurologist, I may find this inquiry piece scarier than most. Because if the narrator is truly not recognizing her own limbs, such asomatognosia may indicate a serious neurological condition. But leaving such concerns aside, and taking such a question as mere rhetorical device, you’ve penned a fun, fresh, and creative take on the image. (Btw, just in case you really don’t know, these are Roots cabin socks, a Canadian classic.) Hope you stay cozy, creative, and curious! @AnneLipton
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October 5, 2020 at 9:09 am
Thanks so much. My aim was to make you chuckle! 🙂
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October 3, 2020 at 6:50 pm
The Cape
by Marina A.
196 words
The cape was on: Torrey-the-Darth-Vader would use his powers to get anything he wanted. Today, he wanted candy. To ensure success, Torrey-the-Darth-Vader joined forces with Max-the-Spider-Man and Gabe-The-Ninja.
“Anything chocolate,” Torrey-the-Darth-Vader said.
“Anything chewable!” said Max-the-Spider-Man.
“Sour Patch kids for me!” said Gabe-the-Ninja.
Unstoppable, Torrey-the-Darth-Vader darted from one house to another. Past princesses, zombies, and robots. The cape made him fly. Then, the cape almost made him trip.
“Wait up!”
Torrey-the-Darth-Vader slowed down to assess the situation.
“Hurry up, Torrey!”
Spider-Man-Max and Ninja-Gabe got further and further down the street. Torrey-the-Darth-Vader skipped three houses to catch up to them.
“Sorry, guys, can’t go fast in this thing,” he said.
“That’s okay,” said Spider-Man.
“Here, you can go in front of me,” said Ninja.
Their voices sounded strange, probably because the costumes covered their mouths.
“Here, Gabe! Sour Patch kids!” Torrey-the-Darth-Vader nudged Ninja with his elbow.
“What? My name is Ava,” said Ninja.
Torrey looked at Spiderman: “Max, where’s Gabe?”
“Who is Max? I’m Leah!” said Spider-Man.
Torrey-the-Darth-Vader looked around. Six Spider-Men and even more ninjas.
“That’s okay,” said Ava. “You can walk with us.”
“Yeah,” nodded Leah, “you can help us find Camille. She’s a Stormtrooper.”
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October 4, 2020 at 4:29 am
Definitely sounds like a fun night of trick or treating!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:39 am
This is adorable!Love the six Spider Men! Nice!
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October 4, 2020 at 8:39 pm
Such a fun story of musical costumes! @AnneLipton
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October 3, 2020 at 6:43 pm
Caravanning with Nanny and Granddad
A great first day find – a leaf, so bright and so red would fill my heart with joy. The honey-sweet smell of rain-soaked Autumn leaves zings happy memories back to me of half-term holidays with Nanny and Granddad.
Their caravan had the best corner spot right by a line of huge sweetgum trees. My brother and I would have races through the colourful carpet of leaves. He won the race every time. But the rustle and swish of leaves pushing aside my feet was enough of a win for me.
Just a short walk away was the beach, where we would go crabbing and searching for sea-soaked sand swirls by a sandworm moments before.
In the evenings we’d all sit and play board games at the little fold-up table, laughing and warming our toes by the ‘fire’, drinking perfect hot chocolate made by Nanny on the little stove.
And I’d fall asleep atop the sofa seat cushions, at the end of another perfect day. The holidays were here again.
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October 4, 2020 at 4:31 am
What a beautiful story, Summer. Love all the memories and descriptive language!
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October 4, 2020 at 8:35 am
Thanks Stacey. Good luck with yours! 🙂
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October 4, 2020 at 10:35 am
Beautiful memories! Beautiful story! Nice!
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October 4, 2020 at 5:24 pm
Thank you Jill! Appreciate it.
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October 4, 2020 at 7:19 pm
A lovely story. Brings back some pleasant memories – I, too, love rustling through the leaves!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:19 pm
What a nice story!
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October 4, 2020 at 8:47 pm
The gorgeous sensory details and wistful descriptions in this tender and thoughtful reminiscence piece evoke the feeling of thumbing through a photo album with family. @AnneLipton
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October 3, 2020 at 6:23 pm
Image # 5 (194 words)
Fall-ing
Judy Sobanski
A little leaf flat and green,
blended in, hardly seen.
It felt the sun warm all its veins,
and soaked in droplets from the rains.
It heard the songs all summer long,
from the aviary throng.
It felt the morning dew and knew
that warmth-filled days would say “adieu.”
October skies and chilly nights
turned leaves the shades of traffic lights.
Soon Autumn’s wreckful winds blew strong,
forcing leaves to float along.
The little leaf lost all its green.
Instead, a color in-between
red and orange became its cloak,
painted with a master’s stroke.
More leaves tumbled down each day.
They beckoned little leaf to play.
“Let go and do the Fall-ing dance!”
Little leaf said, “Not a chance!”
But after weeks of holding tight,
the little leaf let go one night.
It swirled and twirled and rode the breeze—
resting under maple trees.
It heaved a sigh, its one endeavor
was trying to stay around forever.
A young girl spotted little leaf.
“Look!” she cried in disbelief.
With pure devotion in her eyes,
she gave her mom the precious prize.
They framed and hung leaf on a wall.
He stayed forever after all.
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October 3, 2020 at 10:02 pm
I really enjoyed your story!
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October 3, 2020 at 10:43 pm
Very nice!
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October 4, 2020 at 4:31 am
What a lovely story!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:32 am
This is so sweet! Nice!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:20 pm
Nicely done!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:28 pm
That was beautiful, Judy! I really enjoyed it. They are going to have a hard time deciding on winners of the contest because there are so many wonderful stories and talented authors. Best to you and Fall-ing!
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October 4, 2020 at 9:01 pm
What a lovely circle-of-life poem with inspired imagery.
The little leaf comes alive for me in these lines:
“It felt the sun warm all its veins,
and soaked in droplets from the rains.”
This stanza really paints(!) a picture.
“The little leaf lost all its green.
Instead, a color in-between
red and orange became its cloak,
painted with a master’s stroke.”
And the little leave lives his life to the fullest with a glorious abundance of experiences: “Aviary throng” and “Fall-ing dance” are sheer genius.
You circle the story in such a satisfying way, as in the end, little leaf hangs once more, this time in a place of honor.
@Anne Lipton
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October 5, 2020 at 5:25 pm
Thank you so much, Anne.
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October 4, 2020 at 11:43 pm
Lovely.
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October 10, 2020 at 2:10 pm
Judy, this story is precious! I really liked the shades of traffic lights line and the ending is perfect. Well done!
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October 13, 2020 at 3:46 pm
Awww … so sweet Judy! Love this!
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October 3, 2020 at 6:02 pm
A Modern Holiday
A feast of fall food brings our generations together. We arrive from all corners and assemble and wait.
Families prepare sweet, creamy, crispy recipes made by their mamas before them and before them and before them. Careful hands stir, roll and pour. The shimmering oven groans under weighty plates of luscious goodness. Heat can ruin, but not today. Spicy smells sweep through the house, breathed in, delightful to all.
Everyone gathers at the table, and cutting remarks are made…about the pie. Here, division produces plentiful portions. Each eater agrees to a generous custardy wedge. Today is a day for sharing and giving as one passes a plate to the next. Rich slices and sweet swirls bring smiles and happy sighs. Cleanup can wait! For now, we sprawl out, relaxing, appreciating family, enjoying friends.
As we feast and fellowship we forget our differences and remember only our tasty connections.
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October 3, 2020 at 9:29 pm
I just love this, I can hear the clank of plates and and see the moment so vividly in my mind. The way you delicately wove tension into the moment is so smart!! Well done Lauren!!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:31 am
I love this! Beautiful!
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October 4, 2020 at 4:46 pm
I love it, Lauren! You perfectly put into words what a holiday should be. 🙂
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October 4, 2020 at 11:38 pm
Though your piece is titled “A Modern Holiday,” your delightful description of people coming together for a harvest feast seems timeless, @AnneLipton
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October 5, 2020 at 5:28 pm
Very nice. I especially love the last line of your story!
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October 11, 2020 at 11:35 am
I love that last line- forget our differences and remember only our tasty connections. Lovely alliteration and nicely done, Lauren!
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October 3, 2020 at 5:54 pm
WC: 121
Leaves Must Fall
by
Ashley Congdon
“Do I have to go, Tree?”
“Leaves must fall, Leaf.”
“But it’s a long way down. When will it happen?”
“As autumn days grow shorter, the layer that binds us together, the one that gives you food and water to thrive will end. You will be released from our bond and make the great fall down to the embrace of the earth.”
“Then what happens? Will I ever see you again?”
“You will create a new bond with the earth and give her nutrients as I once did for you. In return, Earth will nourish me. Through this, Leaf, we will meet again.”
“So Earth needs me. I’m pretty important. I’m not so scared anymore, Tree. Leaves must fall. I’m ready.”
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October 3, 2020 at 7:23 pm
This is beautiful!!
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October 5, 2020 at 11:57 am
Thank you for for reading!
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October 3, 2020 at 7:58 pm
I love this! Beautiful writing!
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October 4, 2020 at 12:05 am
Love it! Circle of life. Great job, Ashley!
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October 5, 2020 at 11:57 am
Thank you Shannon for all your help with this one.
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October 4, 2020 at 10:28 am
Beautiful and informative story! Nice!
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October 5, 2020 at 4:41 pm
Thank you for reading! 😊
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October 4, 2020 at 6:05 pm
This is lovely!
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October 5, 2020 at 11:57 am
Thank you for reading!
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October 4, 2020 at 11:51 pm
You skillfully create two relatable characters and manage to circle this story of life and renewal in so few words. Such a brave little leaf and wise, nurturing tree. Love the title, too. And that ending. @Anne Lipton.
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October 5, 2020 at 11:59 am
Thanks Anne! This is something different coming from me. That means a lot. Thank you for reading.
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October 5, 2020 at 11:21 am
Love how you intertwined science and philosophy here. My heart fluttered as I read this.
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October 5, 2020 at 11:57 am
Thanks Heather! I never writ in this style, so it was all new to me and I wasn’t sure if the message came through. Thank you for reading my story 😊.
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October 8, 2020 at 10:28 am
I love this story with a wonderful message about the circle of life, Ashley!
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October 9, 2020 at 3:06 pm
Thank you for reading Connie!
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October 10, 2020 at 2:15 pm
You accomplished so much in so few words, Ashley! I love the conversation between the youthful leaf and wise tree. It’s a great mix of fiction and nonfiction. Wonderful writing!
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October 11, 2020 at 12:19 pm
Thank you for reading Jill. This is wasn’t something I usually write. I’m going to go look for yours.
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October 11, 2020 at 11:39 am
What a beautiful take on the circle of life. I love that Leaf embraced and welcomed her destiny. Wishing you the best of luck, Ashley!
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October 11, 2020 at 12:19 pm
Thank you for reading!
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October 3, 2020 at 5:48 pm
Howl-oween
I should have known Vanessa was joking. Vanessa was always joking.
Last summer, Vanessa yelled, “Code Brown!” at the pool just to watch us scramble out of the water like cats escaping a bath.
And at our last slumber party, Vanessa crank called the police station.
What?” she asked.
“I thought we were going to bake cookies and play Twister.”
“It’s not like I’m calling 911, Tory. Geez.”
So, I should have know she was joking when she said, “Let’s dress up as PAW Patrol: Zombie Edition!”
“Why?”
“We’ll scare all the little kids at the Halloween festival!” And then she howled with laughter.
“Get it?” she asked. “Because dogs howl?”
Sigh. If anyone would dress up as an undead puppy, it would be Vanessa. And Vanessa is my best friend.
This was two weeks ago.
Today, I arrive at the festival and see Vanessa, practically glowing in a white and gold gown.
“What are you wearing?” she asks.
“It’s PAW patrol: Zombie Edition.”
“Omg, Tory! I was just joking!”
I want to hide. But instead, I square my shoulders and say, “Happy Howl-oween! Get it? Because dogs howl?
Vanessa looks at me.
And then we both howl with laughter.
LikeLiked by 4 people
October 4, 2020 at 10:25 am
This is so cute! I love the ending!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 5, 2020 at 12:09 am
Such a relatable story of BFFs who thrive despite their differences. I love that the prospect of a very scary Halloween is averted by laughter and togetherness. @AnneLipton
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October 9, 2020 at 12:27 am
I’ve noticed that you have left beautiful and personalized comments to most, if not all, the entries. That’s amazing. Thanks for taking the time to read and comment on my entry.
I was trying to capture that moment in our lives when we’re in embarrassing situations and we have two options: run or roll with it. It’s hard and it takes bravery, but life’s more enjoyable when we can move past these moments instead of dwelling in them.
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October 3, 2020 at 5:24 pm
Party skeletons
by Claire Schlinkert (Image # 9)
We are spooky, kooky movers,
we are UV-glowing groovers
and it shows that we have boogie in our bones.
With our foot phalanges tapping
and our meta-carpals clapping,
we sway clavicles to drums and saxophones.
We are hip-hop rapping rockers,
we are coccyx-waving boppers!
See our tibias and fibulas sashay.
Lifting femurs and patellae,
we are giving it some welly.
Raising radii, we belt, “YMCA!”
Then we each gyrate our pelvis
as we disco dance to Elvis:
in our orbit shades, we rattle, rock and roll.
With our mandibles, we’ll shout it,
(and we make no bones about it):
without organs, we’re still party heart and soul!
LikeLiked by 6 people
October 3, 2020 at 5:39 pm
Claire – I love this! So clever!
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October 4, 2020 at 9:35 am
Thank you, Judy!
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October 3, 2020 at 7:25 pm
That’s great how you were able to incorporate so many bone names and still make such a rocking-rolling rhyme!
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October 4, 2020 at 9:36 am
Thank you, Katie!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:21 am
I love this! Cute and clever! Nice!
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October 6, 2020 at 4:40 pm
Thank you, Jill!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 4, 2020 at 3:32 pm
Haha, so clever, Claire!
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October 6, 2020 at 4:41 pm
Thank you, Colleen!
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October 4, 2020 at 7:21 pm
Super fun!! Your bone wordplay is great.
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October 6, 2020 at 4:42 pm
Thank you!
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October 5, 2020 at 12:30 am
Your humorous poem fits the image so well and cleverly employs so many wonderful STEM elements. I have to rib you a little bit for leaving out the humerus and the ulna (funny bone)! (But word count and meter, I know.) Thanks for making me belly laugh. @AnneLipton
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October 6, 2020 at 4:43 pm
Thank you so much Anne! Love the extra pun, haha!
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October 9, 2020 at 12:30 am
This has such a great rhythm! I could hear the music while reading it. Also love how you snuck in all those bone names! Clever!
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October 9, 2020 at 6:39 am
Thank you, Beverly!
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October 3, 2020 at 4:43 pm
My Cauldron
by Josh Cohen (Image #12)
My cauldron teems with hints of fall:
nutmeg, pumpkin, clove,
vivid thoughts of apple cider
mulling on the stove,
morning crispness, evening calm,
fallen dampened leaves,
huddled warmth, the downy touch
of checkered flannel sleeves,
barley soup and roasted squash,
football on the box,
sliding on the hardwood floor
in sweaty woolen socks.
My cauldron bubbles over –
this is no witches’ brew –
just a blend of autumns past
that takes me back to you.
LikeLiked by 9 people
October 3, 2020 at 5:42 pm
Your Fall imagery appeals to the senses! Well done!
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October 3, 2020 at 6:05 pm
This evokes a lot of warm autumn memories! Very nice!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:20 am
I love this! Beautiful fall imagery! Nice!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:34 pm
Fall memories revisited. Nice job, Josh!
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October 5, 2020 at 1:03 am
Brilliant! I admire the carefully picked elements and delicious sensory details of this autumnal poem, which folds in more than a few of my favorite fall things! It would work beautifully as song lyrics, too. @AnneLipton
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October 5, 2020 at 5:22 pm
This is poignant: I feel like there’s some kind of loss implied. (Maybe that’s just me?)
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October 6, 2020 at 12:41 pm
Yes! The emotion and ending. Powerful!
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October 3, 2020 at 4:39 pm
Quinn Newton Saves Halloween
178 words
Quinn’s heart sank when Governor Grump cancelled Halloween.
No costumes? No trick-or-treating? No candy?
No way. Quinn quickly launched a plan.
First, she crafted her costume.
She stitched logos on her aerospace jumpsuit and clipped lights on her push rims.
With safety goggles in hand, Quinn wheeled into the kitchen. She collected tubes, tape, foil, and treats.
Quinn constructed and weighed.
She measured mass and calculated velocity.
Done! Quinn Newton’s rocket was ready.
She rolled out to the neighborhood square. Countdown clock set for 6:00 PM.
Quinn positioned herself near the launchpad holding her remote-controlled switch.
Families trickled out to see. Three…
Two
One
Blast off!
Take flight
Sleek nose slices air
Tail fire bright to light the dark night
Soar
High
Higher
Pop! Sweet pop!
Candy explosion!
confection gems flicker and fall
children, big and small, squeal and dash to gather them all.
Turn
Tug
Now down
Toward ground
Gravity grabbing
Parachute plumes, slow to a float.
Thump! Quinn’s candy rocket taps the lawn welcomed with grins.
Sticky giggles, scaring, sharing, holiday smiles, mission Save Halloween accomplished.
LikeLiked by 6 people
October 4, 2020 at 9:11 am
Love it! She’s a hero! What great visuals throughout this whole story. I was cheering Quinn on. Good luck!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:18 am
This is so cute! Love the candy explosion!
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October 5, 2020 at 1:14 am
Quinn, For The Win! I love that she’s a sewist as well as a scientist. You have some stellar STEM elements and descriptions, too. I especially liked “Gravity grabbing/Parachute plumes.” @AnneLipton
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October 3, 2020 at 4:39 pm
I am Scary Clown
[Narrator]
“It was Halloween. The night when a frightening clown would appear, scaring children and taking their candy away. His name was Scary Clown”
[Clown]
“No, tonight I am Fun Clown.”
[Narrator]
“But this is a scary story.”
[Clown]
“Sorry, no can do this year. I am going to make children happy.”
[Narrator]
“Wait stop!”
[Clown]
“Nope.”
“Hello little girl. Here is some candy for you.”
[Girl]
“It’s Scary Clown. Run”
[Clown]
“Maybe next time I should smile.”
“Hello little boy.”
[Boy]
“Run for your life. It’s Scary Clown.”
[Clown]
“That didn’t work.”
[Narrator]
“Well, your smile does make you look creepier.”
[Clown]
“Kids love magic.”
“Hello kids, want to see a magic trick?”
“Hokus pokus shed a tear, make their candy disappear.”
POOF
[Kids]
“RUN.”
[Clown]
“Wait, that was only beginning. Next, I was going to make more candy appear.”
“I give up. I’ll always be scary to them.”
[Narrator]
“Good, now I can tell my story.”
[Clown overhears kids]
“Guess what? Scary Clown tried to get me and I escaped.”
“Me too.”
“I love Scary Clown. He makes halloween the most fun time.”
[Clown]
“I did it. You can tell your story now. I am Scary Clown.”
LikeLiked by 7 people
October 3, 2020 at 5:43 pm
I’m glad Scary Clown ended up being happy with who he is!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 4, 2020 at 9:18 am
I really liked this. Love the twist at the end.
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 4, 2020 at 10:14 am
This is so cute! Love the ending!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 5, 2020 at 1:26 am
Genius! I read the title with no little trepidation, but now I am a little in love with Scary Clown, TBH. Such an original entry! I’d love to see it as an animated short. @AnneLipton
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 4:37 pm
Laxmi Where Are You?
On this starless night, the world is alight.
Firecrackers spit evanescent gold.
You can’t catch it! You can’t stop it!
It burns, this fugitive gold.
Laxmi, where are you?
Do you plan to bring wealth this time around?
The city burns bright with a million lamps,
casting haze onto the heavens,
a message to lure the goddess down.
Come down Laxmi, we are ready for you!
We have sweets and treats and saffron drinks.
We have silks and gems and sandalwood scents.
Our doors remain open through the night,
and endless lamps will show you in.
Come hither, Laxmi, for it’s been a while!
It’s agony to wait,
on this Diwali night!
“It has to be tonight, it has to be now!”
the rich in the bungalows chant.
Yet farther, a lone girl sits,
huddled on a lone step,
that lead to a lone hut,
studying a lone lamp flicker.
It winks at her,
blinks at her,
and beseeches her,
“I am thirsty,” it whispers.
The girl shifts and sighs,
“no more oil” she replies.
Spluttering,
the lamp hisses its last.
In the fumes descends Laxmi,
her face a thousand suns,
her smile a thousand moons,
on this Diwali night!
LikeLiked by 5 people
October 3, 2020 at 4:40 pm
Oops! Posted it in haste.
TITLE: Laxmi Where Are You?
Image no. 15
LikeLiked by 2 people
October 4, 2020 at 10:13 am
This is so beautiful! I love all your vivid descriptions! Nice!
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October 12, 2020 at 8:21 pm
Thank you. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 6:12 pm
Your writing is lyrical and lovely! Good luck in the contest!
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October 3, 2020 at 9:04 pm
Thank you
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October 3, 2020 at 8:16 pm
Lovely
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October 3, 2020 at 9:08 pm
Thank you.
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October 5, 2020 at 2:24 am
A lush and stirring Diwali story with rich, evocative imagery. I especially liked “evanescent gold,” “fugitive gold,” and the radiant ending. Would love to see this developed as a book for kids (in any age category). @AnneLipton
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October 12, 2020 at 8:23 pm
Its good to hear such warm words of encouragement, thank you so much!
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October 3, 2020 at 4:26 pm
MAMA, GUESS WHAT?
By Monica Ann Lauscher
Mama, guess what?
Today was my first day of school!
Papa walked with me so I wouldn’t get lost.
School was gigantic!
There were noisy buses and big kids who walked fast.
I didn’t mean to cry.
Papa gave me a hug and asked me to be brave.
He took me to my teacher, Miss Gray.
Papa left!
I said I wanted to go with Papa.
Miss Gray whispered a secret. It was her first day, too!
We got paints!
I painted a purple rainbow and Papa.
Mia sat at my table. She cried and wanted to go home.
I hugged her and asked her to be brave.
She said she liked my purple shoes.
I said I liked her picture.
She told me it was her dog, but it looked like a horse.
Miss Gray read a funny book about a bear. I even forgot to be scared.
A bell rang.
Papa came!
Miss Gray said I did great.
I told her she did too because she never cried once.
At bedtime, Papa read me stories.
He said you tell him you love me every night.
I love you, too, Mama.
Guess what?
I have school tomorrow!
Good night.
LikeLiked by 6 people
October 3, 2020 at 4:41 pm
So sweet! Nice work, Monica!
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October 3, 2020 at 6:14 pm
The voice of your main character really comes through! Nice job!
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October 5, 2020 at 10:39 am
Thank you!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:11 am
Beautiful sweet story! I love this!
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October 5, 2020 at 2:34 am
Magnificent voice! I am curious about Mama and whether the narrator is speaking to Mama in person or in her head. But either way, it works! (And I relish the sense of mystery/intrigue.) @AnneLipton
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October 3, 2020 at 4:16 pm
PORTAL
By Sheila Alford
200 words/Image #6
Outside Steve’s window, the trees creaked, and the wind droned. Having recently moved into the two-story farmhouse with his family, he had yet to explore the woods out back. A neighbor had told him about a girl named Amanda who had lived in Steve’s house ages ago. She had gone into the woods one night and never returned.
Steve walked over to his bedroom window and peeked through the blinds. He half expected to see the girl staring at him through a cluster of tall trees.
The wind howled louder, and more leaves fell. The scene reflected his melancholy mood as he thought about the life, and the friends, he had left behind.
Looking out the window again, he thought he saw a shadow. Unafraid, he raced down the stairs and out the back door. Following the path that led to the woods, he soon came to the entrance of a cave. Steve poked his head in and saw a thin slice of light on the cave floor. Following it, he came to a door. Steve hesitated, but curiosity won over and he opened the door. Greeting him on the other side was a friend from his former school—Amanda.
LikeLiked by 3 people
October 3, 2020 at 10:58 pm
I’m a portal fan girl- you always get to expect the unexpected- which I love! I’m so intrigued and drawn in, I want to know what happens next! Best of luck Sheila!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 4, 2020 at 10:09 am
Great story, Sheila! I love the ending!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 5, 2020 at 2:44 am
You piqued my interest, Sheila, from the first eerie and evocative line to the last tantalizing one. I am aching to read on to learn what happens next, but also to find out more about Steve and Amanda, their friendship, and their former school! @AnneLipton
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October 3, 2020 at 4:07 pm
The Witch and the Frog
(199 words)
Lizzie needed to cast one final spell to earn her witch’s broomstick on Halloween.
She unrolled her teacher’s wrinkled note.
“Before the night is over, find something Mother Nature can’t do.”
Lizzie witchy-walked over to an old oak tree and wiggled her wand.
“Summer is over, there’s a chill in the air, it’s time to make your branches bare.”
“The leaves always fall this time of year,” croaked a frog. “That’s not magic.”
Lizzie’s face turned as red as the leaves, but she tried again.
“When the sun goes down, the moon will creep, so make this chipmunk go to sleep!”
“It’s called hibernation,” the frog yawned. “Still not magic.”
Lizzie’s hair frizzled and her toes curled.
She was almost out of time!
Lizzie flicked her wand once more.
“High in the sky, in and out they weave, it’s time to make these birdies leave.”
The frog laughed so hard he fell off his log.
“Birds always migrate south for the winter. Better luck next year.”
“Well, bubble my cauldron. Looks like I won’t be getting my broomstick after all,” Lizzie said.
Unless. . .
“A warty snout and eyes like a gnat, turn this FROG into my CAT!”
LikeLiked by 5 people
October 3, 2020 at 4:49 pm
I really like this. Great way to teach the things that happen at this time of the year in a cute and funny way. Good luck.
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October 3, 2020 at 4:58 pm
Thank you!
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October 3, 2020 at 6:04 pm
Clever! I love it.
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October 3, 2020 at 6:30 pm
Good way to quiet a critic! Love it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 11:00 pm
Take that snarky Frog. I love that Lizzie found a clever way to win her broomstick after all!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:04 am
Cute story filled with so many fun facts! Nice!
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October 4, 2020 at 3:39 pm
Hahaha, that was well done and made me laugh. Nice job, Rebecca!
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October 4, 2020 at 11:37 pm
Cute! Your frog is the perfect foil for Lizzie.
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October 5, 2020 at 2:55 am
The Witch and the Frog would make a wonderful picture book with subtle STEM elements. I love your clever and witty wordplay, especially “witchy-walked,” “LIzzie’s face turned as red as the leaves,” and “bubble my cauldron.” The story’s ending is wicked good. @AnneLipton
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 7, 2020 at 8:18 pm
Excellent Rebecca!! HAHA!! It was full of humour and character. Loved the witchy-walked. Well done! Good luck 🙂 – Rosanna
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October 13, 2020 at 10:07 am
Love this! So funny!
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October 3, 2020 at 3:52 pm
Super cute!
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October 3, 2020 at 3:44 pm
JUST ONE MORE BITE
by Tara Knox Cerven
148 words
My mom said, “NO MORE CAVITIES! NO MORE SWEETS, STARTING TODAY!”
Okay.
But…
Creamy steamy sweet potato pie?
Just one more bite and one more day!
I’ll brush better on Monday.
Ooey gooey pumpkin rolls?
A taste*or ten*should be okay!
I’ll brush AND floss on Tuesday.
Yummy crumbly apple crisp?
With ice cream plopped on top. Hurray!
I’ll brush, floss, AND gargle on Wednesday.
Colorful cranberry pineapple punch?
Served in a fancy-schmancy way!
I’ll brush, floss, gargle, AND swish on Thursday.
Cinnamon scented cider donuts?
Dozens of them, piled high on a tray!
I’ll brush, floss, gargle, swish, AND polish on Friday.
Mounds and pounds of Halloween candy?
Miles and piles leftover. Oy vey!
Toothache. I’ll think about that on Saturday.
Pumpkin spice and everything nice?
Muffins, cookies, pies, souffle!
Tooth decay. Can you bring me to the dentist on Sunday?
Please don’t tell my mom.
LikeLiked by 5 people
October 3, 2020 at 3:46 pm
Tara- I’m glad the comment worked!! Good luck 🙂
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October 3, 2020 at 3:51 pm
Love this. So much tempting food this time of year! I can relate. 🙂
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October 3, 2020 at 4:11 pm
Super cute and orignial. The foods! Oh my goodness I want every single one of them. Good luck!
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October 3, 2020 at 5:14 pm
What a fun read aloud! Love the cumulative aspect – so clever.
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October 3, 2020 at 6:00 pm
Reading this was a “sweet” surprise! It sure appeals to the senses and I love the way you incorporated the days of the week. Clever!
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October 3, 2020 at 11:02 pm
I am now going to rummage in the cabinets to find a dessert for my “sweet tooth”! Deliciously told story, best of luck!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:02 am
This is so cute! Makes me hungry for all of those yummy fall foods.
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October 4, 2020 at 3:21 pm
Love this, even though it made me hungry!
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October 4, 2020 at 9:20 pm
Deliciously delightful!
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October 5, 2020 at 3:08 am
A hilariously sweet but cautionary Fall foodie tale. Love all the autumnal treats that you and the narrator manage to pack in. Your (sometimes-rhyming) descriptors are perfectly delish. My fave is the cinnamon-scented cider donuts. @AnneLipton
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October 3, 2020 at 2:46 pm
Love the entries and love this opportunity! Good luck everyone!
Ruthie and the Leaves
A cool fall morning, sifting light.
I peek outside, a spooky sight!
The trees are bare, just skinny sticks.
Someone’s been here, playing tricks!
“Toby, come! I need your nose.
The trees are missing all their clothes!”
We hike through woods to find the leaves.
Red, orange, yellow, thick as thieves!
I drop glue blobs on every one
“Toby, stay. We’re almost done.”
Now how to lift these onto trees?
Oh, oh, hold on! A monster breeze!
The leaves lift slowly, all around
I
I Then
I
I UP! DOWN!
I
I UP! DOWN!
I
I UP!
I DOWN!
Fly
They land on kitties, croaking frogs,
On waddling duckies, three big dogs!
All together, swish – swash – swoosh –
a plumpish pile on Toby’s tush!
Toby noses through debris,
and finds the perfect leaf for me!
“Where should it go? 1, 2 or 3? Illus note: Ruthie tries places to stick the leaf.
No luck, it’s stuck. I’ll leaf it be!”
Trees everywhere, they’re happy, swaying.
Limbs free and easy, dancing, playing!
“Let’s head home, boy! Who knows what might
come falling down on us tonight!” Illus note: Dark night sky, snowflakes falling.
LikeLiked by 4 people
October 3, 2020 at 2:50 pm
LOL – Middle couplet should read “Fly, UP, UP, UP! Then, DOWN, DOWN, DOWN!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:01 am
I love this! Fun and adorable!
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November 6, 2020 at 2:16 pm
Thank you, appreciate your comment!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 3:57 pm
Thanks for clarifying the middle! So very fun and something a child would definitely want to do. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 4, 2020 at 12:30 am
thank you!
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October 15, 2020 at 11:34 pm
Thanks Susan!
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October 3, 2020 at 4:47 pm
I love this playful story, Katie! Wonderful alliteration and assonance throughout. I was grinning as I read the stanza with kitties, frogs, duckies and dogs, picturing leaves glued onto them. So cute–great job!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 15, 2020 at 11:35 pm
Thanks Jill!
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October 3, 2020 at 11:13 pm
Nice job Katie! My favorite lines- “They land on kitties, croaking frogs,
On waddling duckies, three big dogs!” So fun!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 4, 2020 at 12:41 pm
Katie, your story is so fun and “leaves” so many fun illustrative possibilities. Ha, couldn’t pass up the pun!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 15, 2020 at 11:34 pm
Ha, ha, good pun! And thank you for reading, and commenting!
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October 4, 2020 at 9:22 pm
Super fun story! Well done!
LikeLiked by 1 person
November 6, 2020 at 2:14 pm
Thank you for your comment!
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October 5, 2020 at 3:23 am
Amazing autumnal poem with great rhythm! There is much to love here: The imagery. (You had me at “sifting light.”) The slapstick humor. (Leaves landing everywhere, including on Toby’s tush.) The wordplay. (“I’ll leaf it be.” LOL.) Ruthie’s acceptance of her failed mission, while maintaining her her hope and optimism. And a sweet snowy surprise on its way to her. @Anne Lipton
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 15, 2020 at 11:31 pm
Thank you!
LikeLiked by 2 people
October 15, 2020 at 11:33 pm
Thank you, fun to write, and add to the other creative entries!
LikeLiked by 1 person
November 6, 2020 at 2:14 pm
Thank you, I appreciate your comment!
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October 3, 2020 at 2:07 pm
NO BONES ABOUT IT
By Laurie Carmody
Are you bummed about having no bum?
Is the “No Shirt, No Skin, No Service” policy at fine establishments
throwing a wrench in your metatarsals?
Are you sick and tired of having no body to love?
Well, my skeleton friends, pull yourselves out of the grave and into the sunlight,
because today is your lucky day.
In an exclusive offer to our Skelevision viewers,
we are offering patent-pending pre-shrunk skin suits for the bone-rattling low, low price
of $49.99.
Wait a second, what’s that sound?
It’s the sound of slashing prices – you can have two suits – for only the cost of shipping and handling!
BUT WAIT! There’s MORE!
Buy within the next thirty minutes and you’ll also receive 50% off skin-ny jeans!
Don’t just trust us, though, listen to this testimonial from the distinguished Napoleon Bone-a-part:
“With my new skin, I can conquer anything!”
Don’t use your lack of guts as a reason not to take the plunge!
Pick up your skel-phone and call 1-800-SKIN-2020 today.
Refuse to be a lazy bones because this offer will decompose soon!
Halloween candy will not be honored as legal tender. Not affiliated, licensed, or endorsed by The Dermatological Association of America.
LikeLiked by 14 people
October 3, 2020 at 2:38 pm
Love the humour!
LikeLiked by 2 people
October 3, 2020 at 3:50 pm
Skelevision viewers…pure gold. Fab word play! Good luck, Friend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 3:55 pm
I love this. Very clever and fun. Great puns and humor. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 3:59 pm
Hysterical! I laughed the entire way through it. Great work.
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 4:21 pm
Very Original. Loved “BUT WAIT! There’s MORE!”
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 4, 2020 at 4:11 pm
Haha! Thank you! I had to put that phrase in there 🙂
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October 3, 2020 at 4:27 pm
Love this! So original and hilarious!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 4:49 pm
What a giggle-fest of a commercial! So creative, Laurie!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 5:56 pm
Fantastically funny and entertaining! I loved this!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 6:34 pm
Clever! Love all the puns!
LikeLiked by 2 people
October 3, 2020 at 7:56 pm
So funny! Loved it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 9:37 pm
hahahahahahahah
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 11:15 pm
I love the take on an infomercial! Very clever and fun!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 4, 2020 at 9:56 am
I love this! So cute and clever!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 4, 2020 at 12:52 pm
No bones about it, this story has so much clever word play to love!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 4, 2020 at 4:13 pm
Thank you! I had a blast getting in as many puns as possible!
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October 4, 2020 at 5:40 pm
Hahaha! Such a clever way to use the image! Nice, Laurie!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 4, 2020 at 7:58 pm
This is so funny! I love all the puns. Great job!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 5, 2020 at 11:13 am
This is HILARIOUS! Love all the puns…heehehe “halloween candy will not be honored as legal tender.” ❤
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October 6, 2020 at 5:41 pm
Very funny and original! I especially liked “Bone-a-part.” @AnneLipton
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October 13, 2020 at 3:50 pm
Haha – totally hilarious and original! Nice job!
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October 3, 2020 at 1:31 pm
Image 6
Desperate Run
by Judy Egan
Have to get through the trees. Can’t stop, they’re catching up. I can see the light ahead. I’ll be safe there. I have to be. There’s no other hope.
Their footsteps are getting louder.
The hairs on my neck bristle. They’re gaining on me. I stop behind a bush. All in black, they can’t see me. Quiet as possible. My breath seems like thunder after running so fast.
They’re so close I can hear them panting. Coming closer. They’ll pass me soon. Silence.
Aaaah! Caught!
“Hand it over, Doofus!”
No! “What gave me away?”
They look down.
My white socks glowing in the dark.
Another Halloween without candy – robbed again.
LikeLiked by 4 people
October 4, 2020 at 9:53 am
This is great! I love the white socks! Nice!
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October 4, 2020 at 12:56 pm
Glow in the dark socks and the tension of the chase were great! What a fun story. Best of luck Judy!
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October 4, 2020 at 5:45 pm
Way to take me one direction and leave me laughing:) Nice job, Judy!
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October 5, 2020 at 4:42 pm
Great story! Full of tension and fear, then…wham, you turned it around. Good luck!
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October 6, 2020 at 5:45 pm
Oh, nooo. Caught by the socks! Love the strong, breathless voice, the break-neck plotting, and the luminous twist ending. @AnneLIpton
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November 3, 2020 at 1:08 am
Thanks for sharing this intense story with us for the fall writing frenzy!
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October 3, 2020 at 12:37 pm
DANCING, TWIRLING ALL AROUND
By Bridget Grey
WC: 172
Leaves are dancing, twirling ‘round.
Orange, red, and honey brown.
Catch a falling leaf, they say,
Luck is sure to come your way.
Can we go outside to play?
Jackets, hats, and scarves today!
Air is crisp and sky so blue,
Catching leaves is hard to do.
Make a pile, get the rake…
How much longer will this take?
Let’s take turns, and here we go…
Running start…look out below!
Dancing, twirling all around,
Catch it, quick! …It’s on the ground.
Find a trail and find some sticks,
Tall enough for walking with.
Off the trail, we build a den,
Perfect place to play pretend.
Twigs and leaves and acorns too,
Mixing up a witch’s brew.
Uh oh, now it’s getting breezy.
Catching leaves is not so easy.
Sky grows pink, and shadows long,
Birds grow quiet with their song.
Back along the golden trails,
Gather treasures in our pails.
Dancing, twirling through the air,
“Look! You caught one in your hair!”
Smells of apples, cinnamon…
Donuts! Yum! Luck’s kicking in!
LikeLiked by 7 people
October 3, 2020 at 1:15 pm
This is delightful! Wonderful rhythm and rhyme – bursting with energy and colorful images!
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October 3, 2020 at 6:24 pm
Thank you! I had a lot of fun writing it ❤
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October 3, 2020 at 11:08 pm
Nice job! Nice rhyme and meter! Good luck!
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October 4, 2020 at 12:56 am
I love this! So much fun to imagine, and a perfect fall day.
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October 4, 2020 at 9:51 am
I love this! So many great images!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:02 pm
Bridget, I love how you captured the magic of fall with vibrant language, sensory details, and lovely rhymes! Wishing you the best of luck!
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October 6, 2020 at 5:54 pm
Wonderful wordplay and Fall imagery. Two favorites are “honey brown” and “catch a falling leaf. I love how you show the children’s imagination at play in the witch’s brew stanza. And, in the last stanza, the donuts *circle*(!) back to the first stanza deliciously. @AnneLipton
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October 3, 2020 at 12:27 pm
Lydia, I have tried submitting my entry 3 separate times, but it never works. Not sure what I’m doing wrong. Have tried signing into gmail, wordpress, etc, with no luck. Any suggestions? I do have my entry posted at martymi6.wordpress.com
Thanks!
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October 3, 2020 at 3:48 pm
Hi Marty- sorry to hear about that! I had one comment left pending in my WordPress and I just approved it, was that yours? If your comment is still not here, please email me and I will post it for you. Sorry about that! info@lydialukidis.com
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November 2, 2020 at 11:48 am
Lydia, managed to figure it out and get my entry posted right after sending you the message. Have no doubt it was my computer skills – or lack thereof! Sorry, I should have let you know right away.
Thanks for creating such a fun contest. Enjoyed coming up with an entry for it. Marty
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October 3, 2020 at 12:20 pm
THE SEASON TO SAY THANK YOU
by Anna Harber Freeman, # 14
Summer ends and flies away.
It’s Autumn’s turn to come and play.
“Thank you for the grass,” squeaks Mouse.
“It helps me warm my little house.”
“Thank you wind,” says Butterfly,
“You take me where it’s warm and dry.”
Bird chirps, “Thank you for the seeds,
The flowers give me all I need.”
“Thank you for the rock,” sings Bug,
As she crawls under, safe and snug.
“Thank you for the dirt,” says Mole,
While digging deep inside his hole.
Skunk peeps, “Thank you for the nest,
A cozy place for me to rest.”
“Thank you for the silver stream,”
Hums Turtle as he starts to dream.
Days grow short and shadows long.
Cricket plays her goodnight song.
Time for sleep. Down goes the sun.
Thank you, Earth, says everyone.
LikeLiked by 9 people
October 3, 2020 at 1:35 pm
Aw, this is so nice! An attitude of gratitude is always important.
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October 3, 2020 at 4:50 pm
Simply sweet and would be fun to illustrate with all the animal characters. Nice work, Anna!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:26 pm
Thank you Jill! : )
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October 4, 2020 at 1:07 pm
Anna, what a tribute to earth! I love the gratitude attitude- such a great reminder to all we should be grateful for!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:24 pm
Thank you Kari! Gratitude has helped me so much lately.
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October 4, 2020 at 5:48 pm
This is a ready picture book, Anna! I could see it clearly in my mind. Very sweet!
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October 4, 2020 at 11:31 pm
So sweet.
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October 6, 2020 at 6:26 pm
What a heartwarming ode of gratitude. This would make a wonderful bedtime story. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 2:27 pm
Beautiful and sweet! Nice!
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October 3, 2020 at 11:54 am
HOW TO BE A SUPER-DUPER HERO
By: Alicia Meyers
(Image #2)
Why be a superhero when you can be a super-duper hero?
All you need is my tried and tested, strategic plan.
First, it’s important to select your super-duper name.
Pair an action word with the letter X, Y, or Z.
Like, WHAM-X! Or SMASH-Z!
Next, you’ll need a super-duper suit that can withstand anything!
[Illu: running through the sprinklers]
Sidekicks are for superheroes. Get yourself a whole trusted team!
[Illu: Baby brother and stuffed animals around him.]
Superheroes may have powers, but super-duper heroes show skill and talent.
[Illu: singing, saying alphabet backwards, juggling]
Use your super-duper radar to stay alert for every rescue mission.
[Illu: Climbing to save a kitten from a tree]
When challenging your arch-nemesis, always offer them the chance to do the right thing.
[Illu: Talking through the fence to the neighbor’s growling dog]
When your mission makes a mess, use your super-duper speed to clean it up.
Smile for the camera. Everyone will want a selfie!
[Illu: Taking selfies with iphone]
But most importantly, when the day is over, hang up your cape and remember…
A true super-duper hero never gives up.
LikeLiked by 4 people
October 4, 2020 at 1:10 pm
A super-duper story about grit- something we all need in these challenging times. Nice job, Alicia!
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October 6, 2020 at 6:37 pm
Stupendous! Such an encouraging message of positivity for kids. You channel a child’s, ahem, I mean, a super-duper hero’s voice superbly. Hope to see this as a picture book IRL-Y! @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 2:25 pm
This is so cute! Wonderful message!
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October 3, 2020 at 11:42 am
*in case my link in the form isn’t working
SOMETIMES HALLOWEEN IS SCARY
by Dedra Davis
(199-words)
Sometimes Halloween is scary.
Not because of ghosts and goblins.
Or vampires and werewolves.
Or brides dressed in white.
What is scary about a bride?
Nothing. Not one little thing.
But last Halloween, my mom made me dress up as a bride.
A beautiful, non-scary bride.
And as brides do, I wore a white veil, a long, white dress, and carried a white bouquet.
I also carried a necessary accessory—my candy bucket!
And the hunger to get to the next doorbell—first!
Candy-hunger!!
But running, dressed as a bride, isn’t a good idea.
And running in a yard,
full of pokey stickers,
is never a good idea.
Racing, rushing…
SPLAT!
Stickers, STICKERS!!
Owwwwchh!
Stickers poking,
YowwwOuch!
Skinned knees,
bloody fingers,
muddy, torn dress…
candy scattered everywhere!
NOOO!
But…
Now, I look like a Halloween bride!
YES!!
A scary, zombie, muddy, bloody bride!
BOO!!
Sometimes Halloween is scary.
Not because you dress up like a beautiful bride,
but because you fall in a pile of pokey, hurt-y, burr-y, stickery-stickers.
Prickly little monsters!
And once you pick the pokey, prickly, hurt-y, burr-y, stickery-stickers out of your costume,
you look like a scary bride!
“Trick or Treat!”
Sometimes, Halloween is scary.
Scary, fun!
The End
LikeLiked by 5 people
October 3, 2020 at 11:54 am
Very creative!
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October 3, 2020 at 3:34 pm
Ah, thank you so much!!!
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October 3, 2020 at 2:35 pm
Love this! Very clever and funny!
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October 3, 2020 at 3:34 pm
Ah, thank you so much! And thanks for reading!!
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October 3, 2020 at 3:20 pm
Dedra, I’m so glad to read your story! I was one of the ones who couldn’t access your blog. Loved the humor and originality! Great job!
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October 3, 2020 at 3:33 pm
Thank you so much! Thanks for taking the time! Technology drives me🦇🦇!!
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October 3, 2020 at 6:38 pm
I love how she turned something negative into a positive and fun thing! Great job!
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October 5, 2020 at 6:09 pm
Yes! A got her way in the end! Haha Thank you for reading!!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:17 pm
I love how she wasn’t deterred by the mishaps, what a positive attitude!
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October 5, 2020 at 6:07 pm
Thank you! The real incident went much differently! Haha, Thank you for reading!
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October 4, 2020 at 5:51 pm
Awesome, D!
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October 5, 2020 at 6:03 pm
Thank you! Appreciate you!!
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October 8, 2020 at 4:09 pm
I love your character’s pluck, enthusiasm, and her joy at her inadvertent Halloween transformation. Your wonderful theme—that there’s a fine line between fun and fear—sends a great message to kids about letting go of expectations and embracing their experiences. And your last lines circle the story beautifully. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 2:23 pm
Cute and clever! I love her positive attitude!
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October 3, 2020 at 11:17 am
HI – Here is my entry. 196 words for Image 12 – THANKS!
PUMPKIN’S PAYBACK
Far out in the field,
alone with my friend.
I sit here with patience
and wish for an end.
That sneaky witch, Hilda,
she cast a bad spell.
Changed me to a pumpkin
and stole my cat, Belle.
She lost her black tabby
and now she has mine,
to practice her spells on
and THAT is not fine.
My best pal Lucinda’s
creating a cure.
She’s mixing a potion
with goodness that’s pure.
It’s fizzling! It’s sizzling!
it should do the trick.
Lucinda’s a great witch,
her mixtures are slick.
The waiting’s the hardest.
I’m not super calm.
A few minutes more then
I’ll guzzle the balm.
It’s finally ready
but oops, I can’t drink.
Lucinda will pour it
inside me – I think.
It’s warm and it’s sloshy.
I feel a soft glow.
Hurray! It is working.
I’m starting to grow.
My hands and my arms are
the first to arise.
The rest follows suit then
I open my eyes.
I hug my best friend
and we go to retrieve
my poor little cat and
make Hilda take leave.
She’s working her magic
and chanting a spell.
But this time I’m quicker –
now Hilda’s a bell.
LikeLiked by 6 people
October 4, 2020 at 5:54 pm
I’m glad Lucinda’s spell worked! Nice job:)
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October 8, 2020 at 4:26 pm
What a creative take on this image! I love how you saw the pumpkin as a character. Your allusion to “bell, book, and candle” in the last line is dead-on. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 2:21 pm
Cute and creative! Love the ending!
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October 3, 2020 at 11:09 am
Finally figured out how to get my entry into comments! LOL Here’s my story inspired by the little witch on photo #12
The Witch
In a magical realm full of cobwebs,
with no break in the grey misty gloom,
it was Halloween night,
such a creepy delight,
when a witch hopped up onto her broom.
Her black cape whirled as she lifted
up into the velvety night.
When she rose on her steed,
her nose started to bleed.
Turns out the witch couldn’t stand heights!
She waited til she wasn’t dizzy,
and thought about choices to fly.
A bike was too scary.
A horse was too hairy.
Just then an idea rolled right by.
The witch traded her broom for a skateboard,
and hoped her fear could be beat.
What more could she want
If she couldn’t haunt?
So she kicked off with her black booted feet.
The witch “Ollied” and “Heelflipped” like crazy,
And sped along kid crowded roads.
She kept her wand handy
To make kids give her candy.
If they argued – she turned them to toads.
So if you happen to get lost in the darkness,
or find yourself under a spell,
be sure not to get caught
in that cobwebby spot
Where a skateboarding witch might just dwell!
LikeLiked by 6 people
October 3, 2020 at 12:25 pm
I love it! I can just picture this little witch swooping in on her skateboard to take candy.
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October 4, 2020 at 1:25 pm
What an inventive mode of transportation for a candy collecting witch, love it!
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October 4, 2020 at 5:56 pm
A skateboarding witch! Nice take on it, Elizabeth!
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October 8, 2020 at 4:43 pm
Such a fun, original, and creative idea! I love the inclusion of skate lingo and admire your ability to to write a complete story arc in so few words. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 2:19 pm
Fun and adorable! Love it!
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October 12, 2020 at 4:00 pm
I love this, Beth. A skateboarding witch is quite original. And the rhyme scheme you’ve chosen works well with the story.
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October 3, 2020 at 10:55 am
WC: 199
ONE RED LEAF
Rashda shuffled along the sidewalk.
CRINKLE! CRUNCH! SCRUNCH!
Orange, tan, and brown leaves swished around her shoes.
But to Rashda they all looked the same, until she spotted one that looked different from the rest. Different, just like she felt.
She scooped it up, carried it to school, and set it on her desk.
Soon Rashda felt a tap-tap on her shoulder.
“Hi. Where’d you get the giant leaf?” Spreading her arms wide, Rachel touched the leaf and raised her eyebrows to help Rashda see she was asking a question.
Rashda wiggled her fingers like they were walking. Then she pointed out the window, toward the sidewalk.
“Let’s look for more pretty leaves on the playground during recess, ok?” Rachel said.
Rashda had been in her American school long enough to recognize the word ‘recess’. She answered with another word she knew, “Okay.”
When the bell rang, Rachel walked beside Rashda and reached for her hand. They spoke in smiles.
Together, they headed toward a golden, yellow tree behind the swings.
Together they made an autumn bouquet to give their teacher.
Together, after recess, they gave it to Mr. Jamal,
But not until Rashda added her one red leaf.
LikeLiked by 6 people
October 3, 2020 at 11:27 am
I love how they started building a friendship even before they could speak fluently together. It shows how playing together needs heart more than words 🙂
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October 3, 2020 at 12:12 pm
Thanks for reading my story and commenting, Katie!
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October 4, 2020 at 6:20 am
Love this gentle, heartwarming story!
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October 4, 2020 at 10:23 am
Claire, I appreciate you taking the time to read and comment on my story. Good luck with yours!
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October 4, 2020 at 1:37 pm
I love this line- They spoke in smiles. What a heartwarming story!
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October 4, 2020 at 5:58 pm
Friendship has its own language:) Nice job!
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October 4, 2020 at 11:28 pm
Heartwarming friendship.
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October 8, 2020 at 4:56 pm
I love that you took one leaf and made it into a bouquet. Your story expresses such a beautiful, hopeful message of kindness, generosity and connection, of finding common ground despite our differences. I especially like your description of friends who “spoke in smiles.” @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 2:17 pm
I love this! Beautiful and sweet! Nice!
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October 3, 2020 at 10:23 am
Purple Jack
By: Jessica Potts
Image #3
195 Words
Zane grabbed the jack o’lantern and pulled with his last ounce of strength. It wouldn’t budge. Soon the purple smoke came, stinging his eyes and burning his nose. It crept out the mocking smile of the carved pumpkin and evaporated into the trees. Purple Jack was real, and he was his next victim.
When Zane moved here, he laughed at the legend his classmates told him. And now he stood paralyzed, the distant laughter of Purple Jack taunting him. His knees buckled as the smoke consumed him. It wouldn’t be long now. He heard Purple Jack’s footsteps approaching, but then a whack and a thud. Then himself thrown to the ground. The jack o’lantern smashed apart. Zane sputtered and coughed as he looked up to see a recognizable figure in the smoke.
“Sophie?” He croaked, staring at his younger sister. “How did you-“
“There’s no time. We have to go!”
He shadowed her through the thick woods. They reached the edge, both panting with their hands on their knees.
“I’ll never tell if you don’t.” she said.
With a half-smile, he replied. “Deal.”
They took off. Not knowing if Purple Jack was dead or alive.
LikeLiked by 5 people
October 4, 2020 at 5:59 pm
Yay for younger sisters! Nice story, Jessica!
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October 8, 2020 at 11:12 pm
Great build-up of tension and suspense in so few words. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 2:15 pm
Great scary story! Loved the ending!
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October 13, 2020 at 9:32 am
Love it! Younger sister to the rescue. Nice build up of tension.
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October 3, 2020 at 9:13 am
Hi, I posted this on the website, but it shows up nowhere. I tried posting it again and it wouldn’t allow me since I had already entered once. I am hoping you will allow me to enter this way because I like my silly poem inspired by picture three. Welcome to my brain…I teach math and science to elementary students.
Headache by Missie Matt (182)
We changed colors in chem lab like real chemists today,
But the smell gave me a headache that wouldn’t go away.
I got a strange feeling in my eyeballs that just wouldn’t stop,
And my head began to pound and felt like it would pop.
So, I went and saw my doctor in his office at 2:00.
He did his examination through and through.
And after he decided I definitely was ill,
he told me to go home and take a purple chill pill.
So,
I
did.
ZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz…
Then I woke up with a purple haze.
Then I woke up with a purple gaze.
Then I woke up with odd purple hair.
And now I am having a REAL PURPLE SCARE!
So, I went and saw my doctor again at 2:00.
He did another examination through and through.
This time he told me to take 2 pills; one red and one blue.
So,
I
did.
ZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz…
AAAAAHHHH!
Obviously, my doctor never studied the color wheel during his rounds,
I think to myself as I watch purple leaves float and fall to the ground
As I see myself exhaling purple breath feeling quite the fool as I walk to school.
@MattMissie
pillow3985@gmail.com
missiemathandscience@gmail.com (website under construction…almost finished, yay!)
LikeLiked by 2 people
October 3, 2020 at 3:49 pm
Hi- if you entered the form, then it means you submitted your entry correctly and we have it :). These comment fields are just so everyone can read each other’s entries. Please let me know if you have more trouble!
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October 3, 2020 at 5:00 pm
Missie – Found you!! Well done … totally fun and unique. Loved your rhythm. Glad it made it on here! Good luck!! – Rosanna
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October 8, 2020 at 11:18 pm
Great, imaginative riff on an authentic and relatable description of a headache, including visual aura. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 2:13 pm
Cute and clever! Nice!
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October 3, 2020 at 8:46 am
I thought I had posted mine but here it is. PB fiction based on Image #12 (198 words)
Bubble, Bubble, Toil, and Trouble
By Deborah Hunt
Jaime the witch stirred the brew three times.
“You forget the frog legs,” said Pamela the pumpkin.
Jaime put in three green gummy worms.
“You need to add the bones,” said Sally the skeleton.
Jaime added three long pretzels.
“Can I stir the pot?” asked Georgie the ghost.
Jaime handed him the spoon. “You can only stir it three times.”
The cauldron started to rumble.
“It’s supposed to bubble,” said Pamela.
“I forgot the eye of newt,” said Jaime.
Sally plopped a marshmallow into the brew.
Jaime stirred the cauldron three times.
The cauldron shook but didn’t bubble.
“You forgot the bunny tail,” said Billy the bat.
Jaime broke the tail off of a chocolate bunny.
“Can I stir?” asked Sally.
Jaime nodded.
Sally stirred. “One, two, three.”
The cauldron still didn’t bubble.
Jaime grabbed the spoon. “Why aren’t you bubbling?”
The cauldron groaned.
Jaime stirred three times.
The cauldron shook.
Pamela shouted. “You forgot the magic words!”
Jaime stirred. “Bubble, bubble, toil, and trouble.”
Nothing happened.
“Let’s say it together,” said Jaime.
“Bubble, bubble, toil, and trouble!” they all shouted.
The cauldron shook and rumbled and started to bubble.
LikeLiked by 5 people
October 4, 2020 at 6:03 pm
I like how you added what the children could for the witchy ingredients. It reminded me of when we used to come up for silly alternatives for items!
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October 4, 2020 at 8:11 pm
Thanks so much. I wasn’t sure who to do it at first because I didn’t want to make it scary.
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October 8, 2020 at 11:23 pm
A darling depiction of children channeling their creative powers. You never know what will happen when you use your imagination! @AnneLipton
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October 9, 2020 at 1:17 pm
Thank you!
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October 11, 2020 at 2:10 pm
Cute and creative! I love the title! Nice!
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October 11, 2020 at 2:39 pm
Thank so much!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 3, 2020 at 8:07 am
Fall Flowers
Spring, summer and fall,
flowers have their time to bloom.
Spring flowers greet us after a long dull winter.
Deep purple and bright yellow,
crocuses show us the school year is almost over.
Daffodils trumpet the start of summer.
All season, bursts of colors dance in our eyes.
Soon summer ends and autumn arrives.
Days grow shorter.
But fall flowers stretch out the summer glow.
Autumn crocuses echo the first flowers of springtime.
Little faces of pink and yellow snapdragons smile at the cool weather.
Mounds of chrysanthemums brighten our doorsteps
Buzzing bees cover the pink autumn sedum.
Woodland turtlehead blossoms stick out their tiny tongues.
Speckled toad lilies peak out from the dappled shade.
A hummingbird collects nectar from the rose of sharon blossoms
Orange sunflowers petals circle a dark spiraled center
And mirror the colors of the maple trees’ fall foliage.
We are back in school
The pumpkin colors remind us
Halloween is coming.
LikeLiked by 10 people
October 3, 2020 at 8:29 am
I love the attention to the detail of nature. Lovely.
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October 3, 2020 at 8:51 am
Love how you’ve captured the cyclical nature of the passage of time— so much beauty in the natural world.
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October 3, 2020 at 9:45 am
Lovely~~Autumn is my favorite time of the year.
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October 3, 2020 at 10:15 am
As a gardener, I can say you captured the seasonal flowers like a pro. Well done!
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 8, 2020 at 11:27 pm
Wonderful imagery! I especially like “daffodils trumpet” and your last lines. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 2:08 pm
Beautiful fall imagery! Nice!
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October 23, 2020 at 11:13 am
I adore the beautiful imagery and how you used flowers to capture special moment’s in a child’s year.
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October 3, 2020 at 4:51 am
Shelley Corcoran
186 Words
Image 5
The Forest of Years
Autumn was forewarned never to steal a leaf from Old Maple Tree.
But Autumn was not one to behave or listen to anyone’s plea.
Off she crept one Halloween eve, to take what was not hers, in The Forest of Years.
She was unaware why the forest had such a name and to ignore that question was such a shame.
Quickly and hastily, she skipped through sticks and branches, unaware her skin was now covered in scratches.
Looking straight up at the ancient trunk, she stood on tippy toes and tried her luck.
She plucked a fiery red leaf from the timbers grasp, and raced to her home, it firmly in her clasp.
The next day she awoke from a troubled sleep… tossing, turning… tears she did weep.
She glanced at her leaf which was much brighter today, smooth and fresh…with a mystery to convey.
She went to the mirror. Horrified with what she saw! Wrinkles all over her forehead, cheeks and jaw!
Autumn realised how the great Maple had been there for many a year. It stole youth from those who made his leaves disappear.
LikeLiked by 8 people
October 3, 2020 at 8:53 am
What a twist at the end, such great foreshadowing throughout.
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October 3, 2020 at 10:08 am
Love the ending!
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October 3, 2020 at 10:18 am
Well done! I love surprise endings.
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October 3, 2020 at 11:00 am
I love how Autumn drives the story as a character! Great twist at the end, too!
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October 5, 2020 at 12:55 am
I love a surprise ending! Nice story, Shelley!
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October 6, 2020 at 4:22 am
Thank you so much
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October 6, 2020 at 4:29 am
Thank you, Colleen, csheer18, Glenda, Kara and Sara
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October 8, 2020 at 11:47 pm
You have created such a cool and imaginative concept in The Forest of Years. I would love to hear more stories of life lessons learned there. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 2:06 pm
Nice! I love the ending!
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November 2, 2020 at 11:00 pm
Ha! Love this ending! I LOLed thanks for sharing for the fall writing frenzy
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October 3, 2020 at 3:47 am
Interwoven
Everything Marcus owned was already heading south on a truck. Present for Jada in tow, Marcus had one final task before moving.
Twilight settled in as Mom drove onto the reservation, which Marcus had never seen. Jada met him on the porch to exchange gifts and goodbyes.
He gifted her a photo: Marcus, Jada and Nana after the spring play. Beaming, she pulled him inside.
“You have to say goodbye to Nana, too!”
Marcus tried to hide his disappointment with the blanket she’d given him—he’d wanted something more personal.
Inside, Marcus was awestruck with beauty—carved paddles; woven, chimney-shaped
hats; and dozens of vibrant blankets.
“You really like blankets, don’t you?” Marcus gawked. Jada laughed.
“Blankets are part of our heritage,” Nana smiled, wrapping Marcus in a hug. “They carried our culture through generations.”
“Blankets are a way for us to share our stories and show our love,” Jada finished.
“I picked a blanket with your favorite colors!”
Deep appreciation for his blanket blossomed in Marcus’ chest.
He strolled back to the car, bundling the colorfully streaked fabric around him to repel autumn’s evening chill. Marcus knew now, even states away, the warmth of friendship would always be near.
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October 3, 2020 at 3:50 am
Written to accompany Image 1.
200 words.
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October 3, 2020 at 8:56 am
So much love woven into that blanket. A beautiful build-up to such a heartwarming ending.
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October 3, 2020 at 10:32 am
Your story feels like a warm blanket!
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October 3, 2020 at 11:04 am
Young readers may never look at a gift-blanket again in quite the same way after reading your story.
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October 3, 2020 at 1:32 pm
Truly lovely!
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October 3, 2020 at 5:08 pm
This is a wonderful story. Warm like a blanket on a cold Fall day
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October 3, 2020 at 10:18 pm
Warm and wonderful! I love this story so much Devin. Like so many of your stories, I would love to see this one as a picture book:)
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October 4, 2020 at 11:24 pm
Beautiful!
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October 9, 2020 at 12:01 am
I love that the blanket in the image inspired your story, and I also love the analogy you draw between the blanket and the warmth of friendship. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 2:04 pm
Beautiful warm and cozy story! I love the ending! Nice!
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October 2, 2020 at 11:18 pm
Title: GHOULS ARE COMING 4 YOU
188-WORDS
Isabella Heredia
Image 7
Some old fools in town told me ghouls come for you when crunchy leaves skate across your front lawn.
Howling wind rattles our windows. Mamá better seal the doors tight.
Stray leaves abandon their flock, forming orange and cinnamon knolls.
I better stay up late and protect my folks. There’s no time for mistakes.
Everyone knows at midnight they come for your soul.
Tick—Tock
The long hand trots across the clock.
Twelve strikes echo—cling-clang-clunk.
I better not answer the door if the ghouls do come.
Mamá, please listen for once!
I’m nine years old—I must be brave.
Maybe we should bake them cupcakes?
Knock Knock
Oh, noo!
They’re . . . h-e-r-e.
Knock—Knock
“Open this door you puny humans!”
Knock–Knock
“We ghouls are here for you feeble-brained fools. We have surprises that’ll make you weep—Plenty of mouth-crunchy spoils that’ll make your insides coil.”
There’s nowhere to hide!
Mamá better not make a sound. She clings to my arm.
Halloween isn’t fun anymore.
Don’t be afraid—I’m nine years-old after all!
Ghostly fingers creep under the door, stretching until—the knob turns.
“RUUNNN!”
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October 2, 2020 at 11:32 pm
This story is so much fun!
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October 3, 2020 at 2:06 am
Unsure if mine posted- so putting here just in case. 🙂
Star Seed
By Kelly Jensen
Pic #6
The breath leaving my lips crystalized in the cold air, as the sound of my feet hitting the hardened earth matched the drumming of my beating heart. Faster, I commanded as the tempo increased in response.
Deep blue sky was melting into the grey of twilight. The light betwixt thin tree trunks dissipated into the encroaching fog, signaling the coming of night.
The Shadow’s danger increased in the darkness, cloaked with invisibility. He would soon be upon me, and there would be no hope for my anguished soul then.
I forced my burning lungs to inhale. I urged my legs to carry me forward through the wretched woods, the stolen star pulsating in my pocket— an unfortunate beacon of light.
An owl shrieked in warning. The wind whispered “make haste child,” while the earth beneath me shook, thunder-like, as he gained ground.
Hot breath warmed my neck as the distance between us closed. Whipping around, I wrenched the star from my pocket and held her outright- her light singeing The Shadow’s ethereal skin.
At the forest’s edge was a lone cliffside with thick blackness below. I had no choice. The star screamed as I leaped into the great abyss.
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October 9, 2020 at 12:39 am
The cadence matches the scene! I found myself reading faster and faster as the protagonist was running away!
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October 11, 2020 at 2:01 pm
Love the pacing, Kelly! Your story kept me on the edge of my seat! Nice!
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October 3, 2020 at 8:58 am
So spooky! I hope they got away!
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October 9, 2020 at 12:09 am
Incredible voice! The narrator begins with a dismissive tone but soon changes their tune. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 1:55 pm
Great spooky story! Love the fingers under the door! Nice!
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October 11, 2020 at 1:59 pm
Not sure why this posted here. This was for Isabella! Sorry!
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October 12, 2020 at 5:46 pm
Great tension building and attention grabbing!
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November 1, 2020 at 9:19 pm
Thank you for sharing this haunting story with us for the fall writing frenzy! I really liked the clock description.
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October 2, 2020 at 10:55 pm
MAKING MAGIC
Image 12
I remember sitting in the field creating a potion that I hoped would bring her back. I added some of her favorite things—her vanilla-scented perfume, flowers from the garden that had gone dry without her touch, and golf tees left in her pink and black golf bag. As I added each ingredient, it made me miss her more. I had to try and bring her back, even if it seemed crazy to everyone else.
I put on my witch’s hat and carried everything I needed to the field. I set the cauldron on a patch of dirt and lit the match. Secretly, I worried the whole pasture would go up in smoke, sort of like my life. As I mixed the potion, I hoped my tears would add the magic ingredient that would bring her back.
“Abracadabra!” I yelled.
I waited.
“Abracadabra!” I yelled again.
It didn’t work, and I slumped over in tears.
Ten years later, I still miss her every day. How I wish that potion would have worked.
Instead, here I am, ready for the Fall Harvest Dance with no one to see me but my date and my dad. I wish magic was real.
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October 3, 2020 at 9:02 am
Me too! How I wish I had a magic potion to bring back my loved ones even for just a short spell. So much heart and longing in this one.
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October 4, 2020 at 6:08 pm
Oh, if only magic were real. Thanks for sharing your story!
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October 8, 2020 at 1:54 pm
Oh my gosh, I really felt that. I wish that kind of magic was real too. Good job.
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October 9, 2020 at 12:15 am
Such a sad and poignant story that resonates with tender, heartfelt details. I love the specific personal mementos that the narrator adds to her potion. If only. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 1:51 pm
Beautiful emotional story! Wish we could bring back our loved ones! Nice!
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October 2, 2020 at 9:51 pm
Picture #1
WC: 199
I couldn’t figure out how to use italics here to show thoughts, so i put them in parentheses)
The Worst Halloween Ever
by Linda Hofke
“Someone’s moved into the Miller house. Light’s on.”
“Let’s go.”
“But they’re strangers,” I say. “We’re not supposed to–”
“C’mon, Carmen. You King of the Jungle or scaredy cat?”
“King,” I say and tug my lion mane hoodie. (I can chuck the candy later. No use looking like a coward.)
Jill knocks. A smiling granny opens the door.
“TRICK OR TREAT!”
“How wonderful. A robot, lion, and ballerina,” she exclaims. “Here’s something special.”
She drops paper scrolls into our bags.
“Guess she prefers tricks instead of treats.”
“Seems so,” I say. But still better than suspicious candy.
***
After sorting last night’s stash, I open the scroll.
20 Magic Spells.
CAUTION: USE AT OWN RISK
Love potion? Definitely not.
Pass a test spell? Worth a try.
Pet generator? If only!
“What’s that?” Mom asks.
“Just a silly paper. Listen to this transformation spell.”
Presto-change-o, ala-wala-woo.
Makka-makka-pumpkin. Takka-takka-you.
Mom vanishes.
Next to her book and coffee mug is a pumpkin.
I call the others to warn them and learn the Miller house is still vacant. Who was that lady? And how do I change this pumpkin back to mom?
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October 2, 2020 at 10:30 pm
Love your story! 🙂
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October 2, 2020 at 10:35 pm
thanks ❤
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October 3, 2020 at 1:37 am
VERY cool! 😀
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October 5, 2020 at 7:53 am
thanks so much, Donna Marie.
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October 3, 2020 at 9:04 am
Oh no! I hope he figures it out. Such a great story, feels like the perfect start to a chapter book. I hope you keep going with this one.
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October 5, 2020 at 7:54 am
thanks, Sara. It sure would be a fun chapter book to write. I just might keep writing. 🙂
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October 4, 2020 at 2:24 am
haha, such a funny ending!
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October 5, 2020 at 7:56 am
not funny for the poor mother 😉
thanks for commenting, Sylvia. Good luck to you if you’ve also entered.
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October 8, 2020 at 1:51 pm
Haha very clever! Love the ending.
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October 9, 2020 at 9:32 am
thank you, Penolope.
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October 9, 2020 at 12:23 am
I love the contrast of the narrator’s worry about “suspicious candy” versus the havoc that a “silly paper” wreaks. @AnneLipton
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October 9, 2020 at 9:33 am
I’m so glad. That’s what I was hoping to do, Anne.
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October 11, 2020 at 1:49 pm
Cute and clever story, Linda. I love the ending!
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October 12, 2020 at 4:26 pm
thanks so much, Jill
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October 12, 2020 at 4:32 pm
LOL-Mysterious, creative cautionary tale. Poor Mom!
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October 12, 2020 at 5:39 pm
thanks, Charlotte.
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October 12, 2020 at 5:06 pm
Hi linda,
Very original and and cute. Love the spell – fun to say aloud. Poor Mom. LOL
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October 12, 2020 at 5:40 pm
thanks, Kathy.
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October 2, 2020 at 9:31 pm
I don’t think mine got posted-so I’m putting it here. Apologies if it’s in twice-technology is not my friend today!
Falling Apart
By Karen Keesling
WC: 193
(Image #10)
Maddie studied her watch. 10 seconds slower on this last sprint. She needed to be faster, gazelle-like.
She glared at the empty road ahead with gold and cinnamon leaves waving her on. Cinnamon and cider…the conversation…the memory made her sick.
The night after the visit to the orchard. Had she really looked at their faces? Dad stroked Izzy’s hair. Mom heated up apple cider and fried cinnamon donuts.
Why did they create such a perfect moment just to ruin it by telling them?
Had she seen Mom’s taut jawline, Dad’s sad eyes when he smiled? She should have known it was coming. In some sense she did. She heard the shouting. The doors banging. She saw the crumpled blankets on the couch.
Maddie’s heart slammed against her chest when she heard, “still love you…not each other.” Had they even said divorce? She didn’t know. Her body took flight, catapulting her out the door. That was her first time running. Two years ago.
Now Maddie inhaled the fresh, fall air. She stared ahead, sneakers striking the pavement, scattering dead leaves behind her. 20 seconds faster. She knew how to win the race on Saturday.
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October 3, 2020 at 1:32 am
wow, Karen…I was totally drawn in. SO good!
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October 3, 2020 at 3:09 am
Thanks so much. Very kind of you to say 🙂
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October 3, 2020 at 9:07 am
Such lush details the donuts, the orchard, makes the memory more poignant. Makes me feel her drive to run.
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October 3, 2020 at 10:05 am
Wow, great story! Love the imagery.
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October 3, 2020 at 10:36 am
So vivid and bittersweet!
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October 4, 2020 at 6:21 am
I could not stop reading this! Your imagery is beautiful and the story pulled at my heart. Great story!
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October 8, 2020 at 1:47 pm
Very powerful story and beautifully written. I too wrote a running story sparked by this image. It’s just calling out to take a long, contemplative run. Well done.
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October 9, 2020 at 12:34 am
Such a richly layered story told in so few words—and with such great voice. You give us such a wonderful sense of what makes Maddie run—her emotional wound, her feelings of loss and betrayal, and her still-simmering anger. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 1:43 pm
Beautiful moving story! Nice!
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October 2, 2020 at 9:15 pm
Who’s There (image 7)
Knock, Knock! I peek out.
Who’s that shadowy figure on my lawn?
A ghostly voice wails from underneath the hood.
“CHHH-arlie, it’s TIIIIME….”
“Whaaaat?” Is he talking to me?
My parents told me to pass out the Halloween candy.
The dark figure starts to inch closer.
What is that stench? Burnt flesh? Why is he motioning to me?
Is he crazy, I’m not…going with him. I got plans tomorrow with Brad.
“Go away bag of bones! There’s nothing here for you.”
He looks ANGRY!
A hissing sound erupts. He points! Smoke rises from the ground.
Goosebumps creep along my arms. My voice catches in my chest.
His boney face and sunken shadowy eyes stare into my soul.
I refuse to leave, I live here. I’m the fastest track star at school.
I bet I can beat him in a one-legged race.
He’s getting closer!
My heart echoes outside my chest.
THUMP!
THUMP!
THUMP!
I try to slam the door but a strong gust of wind blows it open.
His stale breath hits my nose.
“Who…are you?”
Time stops!
He leans in…
to whisper…
DEATH!
Death takes hold. Then NOTHING!
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October 2, 2020 at 9:17 pm
It did not paste the story right.
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October 4, 2020 at 6:13 pm
I finished reading and then wanted to say “what happens next?”
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October 9, 2020 at 12:50 am
Your suspenseful tale is a fine example of the time-honored story tradition of “you can’t outrun death.” Not even if you’re “the fastest track star at school.” I love howh the end of your work is the end for your narrator, too. @AnneLipton
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October 11, 2020 at 1:38 pm
I loved the suspense! Great ending!
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October 2, 2020 at 9:09 pm
The Runaway 186 words
by Mona Pease
It wasn’t the first time
he stacked his wagon
with favorite things-
his pillow
clean jeans
a shirt
pajamas
and fierce protector,
Saur.
He snuck through
a secret
space in the fence
and sat on the porch
until Auntie Mo
appeared
with
tea
and
donuts to dunk
and lots of
sweet sugar lumps.
“This time I’m going to stay.”
They spent the day
raking
fall leaves
into a pile,
jumping,
and tossing
them
high.
Then stuffed some
in clothes
made a face
with a frown
poked a pole in the ground
to hold up
their guy.
Both laughed at their
lumpy leaf man.
She showed him
the room
where her boy
once
slept
with a fireman’s
ladder
to climb into bed
and told him
it could be
his
tonight!
Then just about dusk
he stacked his things.
“I’d better go
home
to tuck them in
they might not
sleep
without my
hugs.
And they’ll
be scared
if Saur isn’t there
guarding them
through the
night.”
Aunt Mo
watched
him sneak
through
his secret space
but knew
in her
heart
that he would
come back again
soon!
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