I had so much fun participating in Susanna Leonard Hill's 6th Annual Holiday Contest. The rules were to write a children's holiday story for children under 300 words using the basic format/concept of the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas."
I was so excited to be awarded --
"Honorable Mention For Excellence In Evoking Mood And Holiday Spirit And Tradition:
Melissa Stoller for The Eight Nights Of Chanukah (also lovely portrayal of family)!"
I can't wait for the Valentiny Contest in February! And here's my contest entry -- a reminder of the holiday season that just ended!
The Eight Nights of Chanukah
By Melissa Stoller
On the first night of Chanukah I made my family, a menorah for all the world to see.
On the second night of Chanukah, my Papa bought for me, a dreidel spinning joyfully.
On the third night of Chanukah, my Mama gave to me, chocolate gelt as sweet as sweet can be.
On the fourth night of Chanukah, my sister read to me, a book about Judah Maccabee.
On the fifth night of Chanukah, my brother sang to me, holiday songs fit for royalty.
On the sixth night of Chanukah, my Grandpa baked for me, jelly donuts oiled specially.
On the seventh night of Chanukah, my Nana wrote for me, a passed down latke recipe.
On the eighth night of Chanukah, together with me, the smiling faces of my family . . .
Eight happy nights,
Seven potato bites,
Six treats stuffed right,
Five songs taking flight,
Four stories of might,
Three coin delights,
Two tops spinning tight,
One menorah burning bright . . .
Happy Chanukah on this festival of light!