It's time for Susanna Leonard Hill's 4th Annual Valentiny Writing Contest! The challenge: write a 214-word Valentine story appropriate for children in which someone is guilty. Check out my entry below, then visit Susanna's blog to read more! 

          The kids in room 18 worked hard on their valentine mailboxes. They were especially excited for the valentines that would be slipped inside the thin slot on top.
         Ricardo wrapped his box in ribbon.
         Fei’s had fabric.
         Jessica drew jewels on hers.
         Spencer added sparkles.
         Greta … gobbled them all up. Every last sparkle, ribbon, and jewel. Not a single heart remained.
         The students were devastated, but also determined. They distributed their valentines to empty desks.
         As Greta’s pile of cards grew, so did her guilt.
         When the students finished, they ran outside for recess.
         Ricardo raced Fei.
         Jessica jumped rope.
         Spencer did swings and the slide.
         Greta could not be found.
         When the students lined up at the door for their Valentine’s Day party, Spencer asked, “Where’s Greta?”
         ​When the students rushed inside, they found Greta.
         ​Just Greta. Not a single valentine could be seen.
         The students were shocked.
          “We don’t eat our classmates’ valentines,” the teacher said, “which is why Greta used your valentines to make a surprise collage for the class!”
         ​Greta stepped aside to reveal her valentine surprise.
         “Meh-eh-be you can forgive me,” Greta bleated.
         ​The kids in room 18 loved their valentine collage … and Greta!
         ​“Of course we forgive you, Greta Goat! Will you be our valentine?” 

This contest has special significance for me. After posting last year's entry about a new sibling surprise, I went into labor and delivered my son! I look forward to actually reading other entries this year. Thank you Susanna for a wonderful tradition!