It’s that time of year for jolly, holly fun! After a recent revision on one of my manuscripts, I needed to take a break, try something new, and recharge. So why not enter a holiday writing contest? Perfect! This one is put on by the fabulous picture book writer Susanna Leonard Hill.
The guidelines?
- It must be kid-friendly
- 250-words or less
- About a holiday hero or act of heroism
Thanks, Susanna for putting on another fun writing contest!
Inspired by my family’s recent trip to the Christmas tree farm, here is my submission. Happy reading and happy holidays to you!
LITTLE SPRUCE
236-WORDS
Out in the country and high on the hill sprawled a Christmas tree farm. Hidden among the tall, perfectly shaped Evergreens, grew the short, and crooked trees that no one wanted.
“It’s not fair.” Little Spruce shook. “I’ll never find a good home. I’m too small.”
“But you have strong branches,” said a Fir tree.
“Perfect for hanging ornaments.” swayed another.
No one would ever want a tree like me. Little Spruce thought.
Just then, he heard a voice. “Over here, Grandpa!”
A young girl in a knitted hat popped out from behind Little Spruce. Not far behind an exhausted old man followed. “I think we’ve tested every tree,” Grandpa laughed. “How about we take this one?”
Molly waved the branch up and down. “No. Too wobbly.”
She tried another.
Suddenly, Little Spruce felt a tug.
“It’s perfect!” said Molly. “Grandma will love it!”
Little Spruce shook with excitement. Was he finally getting a home? He wondered.
After arriving at the hospital, Molly carefully hung each ornament on Little Spruce’s branches.
“I knew you were strong enough,” Molly whispered to Little Spruce.
Little Spruce didn’t care about being small anymore. Instead, he was mighty.
“Are you ready?” the nurse peeked in.
Molly nodded.
The nurse slowly pushed Grandma in her wheelchair.
Grandma’s eyes lit up. She waved for the nurse to push her closer. “So strong.” Grandma marveled at Little Spruce. “And beautiful.”
“Just like you,” said Molly.
Katie Walsh 
Aww! What a great idea to bring the tree into the hospital to cheer up the grandma! This is a very sweet story and I love the name of your tree, Little Spruce. Good luck in the contest!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you!
LikeLike
Katie, I love that they took the little spruce to the hospital for Grandma to enjoy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Debora!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very cute story Good luck!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for stopping by, Gregory!
LikeLiked by 1 person
There’s a tree for everyone! Great message of hope and a delightful story.
LikeLiked by 1 person
How cute! Nice work. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good work. Yer story it proves that thar be a place for everything, big or small, weak or strong.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you!
LikeLike
Small, but strong. I’m glad Little Spruce was the one to bring cheer to Grandma. Good luck!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Nancy!
LikeLike
Love the twist. I never thought she would take Little Spruce to the hospital! Made me a little teary. Nice work!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much!
LikeLike
What a sweet story, Katie! And what a perfect situation for a smaller tree where he would be deeply appreciated, in part because he wasn’t too big! Just think how happy Little Spruce and Molly made Grandma! Thanks for joining in the contest fun!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for the kind words, Susanna and thank you for hosting!
LikeLike