My Entry for 2024 Fall Writing Frenzy Contest

Photo #13 Writing Prompt
Credit: Freepik

Here are the rules.

May’s First Long Nap. 198 words

“May. It’s time for a long nap,” Mom said, preparing their nest.

“It’s not even dark outside!”

“Hedgehogs hibernate during the winter,” Mom explained.

May wasn’t tired. Why hi-ber-nate? “Can I play outside?”

“Don’t stay out too long.”

May was unconvinced about napping ALL winter.

She’d ask her friends at the mossy tree trunk if THEY did.

“Do you sleep ALL winter?”

Fox said there is a lot of prey in the snowy mountains, so he stays awake ALL winter.

Red Squirrel naps sometimes and stays snug in his nest, eating snacks.

Why can’t May do the same?

At the first frost, Snail hides in burrows until spring.

Bear slept, too—no honey or berries for him in the winter.

Monarch migrated to the South, where it’s warm.

The sun dipped behind the mountains—May headed home.

May loved the smell and sound of leaves crunching underfoot

until an Arctic wind sent chills up her quills.

Fluttering white moths wet her nose.

She yawned, rubbing her eyes.

At home, May cuddled with her family.

“Sleep darling, sleep. Spring will soon come,” Mom said in a soothing voice.

May fell into a deep slumber, dreaming of the Southern warmth.

Good luck everyone.

Please check out the creator, co-hosts and judges social media below.

Kaitlyn: @kaitlynleann17, @kaitlynleann17.bsky.social, kaitlynleann17,
Lydia: @LydiaLukidis, @lydialukidis.bsky.social, cosmiclydia7
Ebony: @ebonylynnmudd, @ebonylynnmudd.bsky.social, ebonylynnmudd

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Author: eleanorannpeterson

I’m a nature-loving adventurer and children’s book author/illustrator whose life has been an exhilarating journey. Originally hailing from Ottawa, Canada, I developed a deep fascination for wildlife while chasing after wild animals in the swamps. Although I initially aspired to become a veterinarian, my path took an unexpected turn when I relocated to Italy. In Italy, I pursued my passion for nature by earning a BS in Environmental Sciences and Territorial Management. This educational experience further ignited my love of writing about the natural world and its diverse wildlife. I’m an active member of several professional organizations, including SCBWI, 12x12PB Challenge, ICWA, and the Children’s Book Academy. Constantly seeking growth and connection within the industry, I engage with fellow writers and storytellers. Despite my affinity for all creatures, I humorously admit that my nine cats can be the most challenging animals to handle. When I’m not wrangling my feline friends, I spend my time writing, doodling, playing with clay, gardening, and exploring the enchanting Italian countryside with my husband. I also love preparing homemade pasta, showcasing my culinary skills.

19 thoughts

  6. Enjoyed your story! I appreciate how you introduced factual information with a lovely story.

    Reply

  7. So cute! I especially loved your descriptions: “ May loved the smell and sound of leaves crunching underfoot

    until an Arctic wind sent chills up her quills.

    Fluttering white moths wet her nose.”

    Good luck!

    Reply

  8. Eleanor – We had the same inspiration!! I love that one picture can inspire similar ideas and yet the stories are so different and unique. This is so fun! Wonderful voice and so very child-friendly! ~ Beth

    Reply

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