Holiday

Flames in the Fire
The Fireplace D. A. Ratliff No one ever claimed that Burlington, Vermont, wasn’t cold in the winter. I can attest to that. Three days before Christmas, the temperature was downright frigid. Temptation almost got the better of me, but I resisted bolting onto the plane to return to Los Angeles. It was downright balmy there.
By D. A. Ratliff2 years ago in Fiction
Here's to Your Happiness. Top Story - December 2023. Content Warning.
Quivering fingers tapped the scarred mahogany bar, and Rudolph signaled the barkeep to refill his shot glass. He held the glass aloft and said,
By J. S. Wade2 years ago in Fiction
Elf On The Run. Top Story - December 2023.
This story was written for RM Stockton’s Challenge. Click here to learn more. It’s official! The front door shut, and the car left the street. I’m home alone for the first time on Christmas Eve with cozy, holiday socks on my feet; the ones with an Elf on the Shelf printed on them. I’m also wearing the matching pajamas too.
By RP2 years ago in Fiction
The Chrismas Dinner
The snow fell gently outside the Thompson family home, covering the world in a soft, sparkling blanket. Inside, the aroma of cinnamon and roasted chestnuts filled the air as the family prepared for their annual Christmas dinner.
By Carolina2 years ago in Fiction
Go On, I Dare You. Top Story - December 2023.
Eggnog. Nope, allergic to dairy. Hot buttered rum? What did I say? Ecologically cool gift exchange? Nope. Santa is thinking COAL. Being naughty is a true contradiction of Santa's nature; huh? You don't believe? Look in your stocking that was passed down to you from great Who & Who and if you find coal, you AND Santa are guilty.
By ROCK aka Andrea Polla (Simmons)2 years ago in Fiction
Christmas Visitor
Marcus and Nanette were excited. They had received a letter from their Mimi that she was coming for Christmas. The note said that she would be there on Christmas Eve. Their parents had helped them count down the days till Mimi was to arrive. On the day she was to come, the children dressed in their finest clothes and waited for Mimi to arrive.
By Mother Combs2 years ago in Fiction
Santa’s Twisted Christmas Yoga: A Back-Cracking Adventure!
The next day at the North Pole, Santa Claus, and Mrs. Claus agreed to do an activity together that she picked out. Since the last two activities were Santa’s choice, he wanted to show Mrs. Claus that he was all about sharing in the fun of her favorite things to do. Santa hoped it was baking cookies, but it was far from it!
By Daphsam2 years ago in Fiction
Why The Krampus Was Really There. Content Warning.
The Child Catcher was influenced by Krampus but was far more nefarious. Everyone knows that Santa brings presents for children on Christmas night and everyone knows that the Krampus punishes and takes away the naughty children.
By Mike Singleton 💜 Mikeydred 2 years ago in Fiction
The First Snowfall
The first snow of winter always seemed to catch people by surprise in this little town, but not Lily. She woke before dawn, the much-anticipated date circled brightly in red on her weathered floral calendar. In the quiet darkness, she layered on woolens and lit the old gas lantern before venturing out into the frosty morning.
By Joel2 years ago in Fiction
Why Santa Clause wears red
Why does Santa wear red? This seemingly simple question unravels a rich tapestry of history, tradition, and the influence of advertising. Santa's journey from a generous monk named St. Nicholas in ancient Turkey to the iconic figure we know today has been shaped by cultural evolution, literature, and clever marketing campaigns. Let's delve into the origins of the story of St. Nick, the transformation of St. Nick into Santa Claus, and the unexpected role Coca-Cola played in defining Santa's signature red suit.
By Joel Barr2 years ago in Fiction
Inuyashiki
In the intricate narrative of the story, Ichiro takes center stage as he confronts the myriad challenges associated with middle-class life, all in pursuit of bringing joy to his family by acquiring a new home. Despite his sincere endeavors, Ichiro is confronted with an unappreciative family, expressing discontentment over the size of the newly purchased house, especially when compared to the neighboring residences. An attempt to commemorate this acquisition with a celebratory sushi feast results in an isolating experience for Ichiro, as his family opts for a restaurant outing without including him. Simultaneously, his professional life takes a hit when his boss criticizes his energy drink project, leading to substantial financial losses and subjecting him to public humiliation.
By Kwandokuhle Ndethi2 years ago in Fiction
The Timekeeper's Secret. Content Warning.
In a quiet village nestled between rolling hills and whispering pines, lived an old man named Samuel. Locals knew him as the keeper of the village clock, a towering timepiece that had ticked faithfully for generations. But Samuel harbored a secret—a secret that transcended the hands of the clock.
By kavinda ranabahu2 years ago in Fiction