Holiday
The Last Real Christmas Tree
The value of memories is coming in this season. One of the most iconic memories is going to pick out the Christmas tree. The weather has been different, but last year was one of the most memorable. It was the first and only time my nephew came. We wanted to bring memories to him. He was getting older and ready to pick out the tree. For weeks, we built the experience up for the little boy.
By Sarah Danaher2 years ago in Families
Stormy Story Time
Outside the wind howled like a banshee as it lifted fallen snow up from the banks to dance through the sky with the heavy flakes still falling from above. Branches of the old sycamore tree out front waved back and forth groaning from the weight of the building snow and scratching against the frost coated window pane. The sound drove a chill up Jane's already freezing spine as she hurriedly changed into her footie pajamas. As she pulled up the zipper, she bravely crept to the window sill and peered out. The only thing visible was a small glowing white orb from the street lamp on the corner, its feeble light trying in vain to penetrate the dense wall of fog and snow. It seemed as though the wind had blown away the rest of the world leaving only Jane's house and a single lamp to be buried in the snow. The thought sent yet another chill up her back.
By A. J. Schoenfeld2 years ago in Families
Sleeping with Ice. Runner-Up in Tales of Hearth Challenge.
The crackling fire was calm compared to the winter ice whistling against the windows. Eyes drooping, Lola watched the white, battery-powered Christmas lights of a small, cheap convenience store tree twinkle like stars. She breathed in the light scent of warmth and sweetness that filled her relaxed body.
By K. Kocheryan2 years ago in Families
The Hearth’s Eternal Flame
The Keeper of the Flame The fire in the hearth had always been more than just a source of warmth. It was a witness, a keeper of stories, and the silent guardian of our family’s history. In its flickering glow, generations of laughter, tears, and whispered secrets found refuge. The hearth wasn’t just a part of our home—it was its soul, a living reminder of the bonds that held us together.
By GoldenSpeech2 years ago in Families
Here comes Santa Claus...
If you ask me today if I believe in Santa Claus, my response would probably surprise you. Though the demographic of believers mostly consists of children ages 2-10 years old, I don't mind being counted among their number. I am on the downhill side of 36 years, but the sparks of old childlike wonder still burn deep in my memory, and with all the confidence of someone who does math in pen, I declare "I BELIEVE IN SANTA CLAUS!"
By Sara Little2 years ago in Families
Fires of Connection
In the frozen silence of winter, the tiny village of Ardence seemed suspended in time. Snow blanketed the cobblestone streets and rooftops, muffling the world in an icy stillness. Shutters stayed firmly closed against the biting wind, but behind one set of weathered wooden panes, a flickering light refused to fade. It came from the hearth of Margot, the village elder, whose home stood at the edge of the town square like a sentinel against the encroaching cold.
By GoldenSpeech2 years ago in Families
Taking Care of Sweet Souls
Taking Care of Sweet Souls In life, we come across many people who accompany us along our journey, but among them, there are a few who stand out as truly special. The value of these sweet souls often remains unnoticed, until the moment they are no longer by our side. The sweet souls that fate grants us are precious gifts, bringing us true joy in the smallest of things and offering a sense of stability in life. However, there are times when a fleeting moment of sorrow or a misunderstanding causes us to distance ourselves from these sweet souls. But by doing so, we risk losing something irreplaceable. For such sweet souls are rare in life, and it is through them that we experience the true beauty of life. When we feel hurt by someone, the thought crosses our mind — "Let's end this relationship right here." But in reality, the people in our lives who have given us love, forgiveness, and moments of laughter, should not be let go over a temporary hurt. These sweet souls are few and far between, and it is through them that we truly savor the sweetness of life. At times, it is important to take care that a relationship does not break due to temporary anger, arguments, or minor misunderstandings. Even when our loved ones quarrel with us, it is a sign of a healthy relationship. Even if they are a little upset, they still hold onto the love in that relationship. Love and connection are like a special energy that brings us closer to each other. The smiling face of a sweet person has an enchanting quality that helps us understand, forgive, and rekindle the bond between us. Life is transient, and the significance of each relationship is invaluable. We should never hold on to hurt or sorrow for too long, as it can distance us from those who matter. Sometimes, it is better to nurture the love of those we care about and preserve the beauty of our relationship than to lose them over a momentary pain. Good relationships are built with a kind heart, and they last for a lifetime with a good nature. No matter what other happiness life offers, when our sweet soul is by our side, that is the truest happiness. At a certain point in life, we realize that the bond we share with a sweet person is irreplaceable. A loved one may be important only to us, but their love carries immense value in our lives, even during challenging times. Wherever life takes us, no matter how much change we experience, the love and presence of our sweet souls remain our greatest treasure. In their smiles, in their love, we experience the true sweetness of life. Therefore, we must take care of these sweet souls, value the relationships we share with them, and cherish the sweet memories we create together. In the course of life, we will encounter countless situations, trials, and experiences, but it is the bond with those few rare individuals — the sweet souls — that remain constant, grounding us and reminding us of what truly matters. Their love teaches us to forgive, to cherish, and to live with kindness. These people do not just enrich our lives; they define the essence of life itself.
By Dipak Pawar2 years ago in Families









