Your first writing assignment of the school year will be a little bit different. You need to pick an event that has significance to you then write letters to the following people about why this event is significant and how they have played a role in the significance. One letter to your immediate family, then letters to each of the following: one member of your extended family, a teacher(past or present), someone you look up to, a friend and someone famous (this doesn’t necessarily have to reach the person). Letters should be hand written and no more than one page. Grading will be done on creativity as well as grammar, spelling and format. One letter is due each week over the next six weeks. The order of who you write can be determined by you.

Hot Dog! A duckfan classic! I can't wait!

Kim

That's one scary assignnment! My mind is whirling with possibilties...guessing at who the teacher is...who might respond and how they might respond and...that definitely wasn't enough of a start!

kav

Pam, this is very intriguing!! And, scary!! I can't wait to see how this goes!!!

Joy

That certainly has my curiousity going. Who has just been assigned to write these letters and is the person who is making this assignment going to have a major role in the story. Please tell us more.

Whew! That sure was a relief to see the comments start rolling in. When I read my email notification of your post Duckfan, I thought I was back in school again and being given an assignment to keep my membership out here on the board! I'm wiping my brow now that I know it is your fall challenge story and all I have to do is sit back and enjoy!

Lynn

I'm with you Lynn... thought I was back in school there for a minute! Perish the thought!

Come on... you can't just give us that and then disappear!

Well, I guess you can, but I wish you wouldn't!!!

Tina

:shudders: I've always hated having to write those kinds of things for school assignments. Writing stories is easy, but I've always hated being forced to write something. It never came out the way I wanted it to.

Whoever this poor soul be, I wish him or her the best of luck! :salutes:

Dear Immediate Family,
I’m supposed to write a letter to you about a significant event and the role you play within that event. Since creativity counts I pick the World Series – The Fall Classic. I doubt anyone else in my class thinks those days should be National Holidays.

What is the significance? Well Dad always says “October means pumpkins, candy, Evan’s birthday and the best of baseball.” Of course then when the World Series is over Mom says that Dad mopes around for at least two weeks.

I guess the significance is that despite all the rest of the baseball we watch this is the most fun. If we go to the beach house it is the only exception to the “No TV during daylight rule.” Mom always lets us eat in the family room and we get to have lots of snack type foods. We get to have a fire if the weather has cooled off. Grandma and Grandpa usually come and sometimes Janie and Mike or Tim and Mary and all the kids so it is kind of like Christmas but the presents are having all the people who love us come to visit. Mom says it’s nice to have Janie and Mary because they understand the two weeks of moping that goes on afterwards.

I think that Fall Classic is significant to our family because it allows us to be together. It means that winter is coming and we can cuddle up in our house together before life gets crazy again in the spring. Love, Sophia

“Sophia does realize that Grandpa isn’t coming this year, doesn’t she?” Evan asked his mom after he read the letter.

“Yes,” Jenna answered.

“Well are you going to let Dad read this because it will just hurt his feelings – reminding him that Grandpa always comes but this year he can’t,” Evan told her.

“Well,” Jenna struggled to answer knowing that what Evan said was true even if unintentional. “I think it’s important for your dad to read the letter. Its homework and we always read your homework.”

Evan frowned at that, took a handful of potato chips and left the kitchen.

I hate being the reasonable person, Jenna thought.

I'm excited to see you posting, Pam!! Perfect way to start it off, too, by presenting us with the assignment.

yay like jenna etc they rule

This is very intriguing Duckfan. You have me fascinated by all these people. Who are they? And how do they fit in with our team? Looking forward to more!

Lynn

I s is very intriguing! I am looking forward to finding out how all the puzzles pieces fit in:)

Happy Fall! Now Sophia has one letter down...five to go. And the first holidays without Grandpa are going to be bittersweet for sure.

kav

Whohoo! You started another story. I already like the characters. You have such a natural way of introducing original characters and letting us in on who they are. I love the little details, too, like the handful of potato chips. Can't wait for more.

It really sounds interesting...I like Jenna
I really like your vivid descriptions on how family gathering can create the best of memories
Josy

Sophia sounds like she has a very loving family. I wonder what is keeping her grandfather from her family's World Series celebration?

Yay! I'm thrilled to see you joined the challenge! What a creative school assignment! You know how much I love Jenna and the others, and it's great to have them back again!

I have so missed Jenna and her family!!!

Joy

I'm ashamed to admit it, but I'm not familiar with the characters, though it seems they're quite popular with many on the board. What story or stories did you feature them in before? Would it help if I read that/those story before attempting this one? If not, I'll save those for later and keep on with this one. Is it possible for you to give those of us who are newer to the board (and obviously missed out on some good reading in the finished fanfiction section) some background on the family and how they tie in with the STFBE characters? If not, I'll go investigating... no problem.

Thanks!

Tina

Thanks for voicing what I was also wondering Tina! How about it Duckfan?

Lynn

:raises hand: Yeah, I'm one of them too. Please Pam?

There is a whole series with Jenna and her gang- wouldn't know where to start explaining who they all are. The stories are wonderful, I strrongly advise a trip into the finished works section- you all won't regret it!

Yes, the stories are wonderful!!! While I would definitely recommend checking them out, it won't be necessary to do that in order to understand and appreciate this story, because duckfan is writing this as a standalone to conform with the challenge guidelines.

It had been a struggle the past five months to remain reasonable with her children and her husband. She credited her friendship with Sue for saving her sanity. Tess and Riley’s wedding had been a great distraction as well but Sue was the one she trusted enough to cry and be angry. And Sue trusted her enough to let her.

“I just want to scream ‘it isn’t fair’ some days and yet I know that will get me no where and only cause more grief depending on who hears me say it,” Jenna lamented one afternoon while Sophia was entertaining Josh and Paige at the park.

“I won’t hear you so go ahead,” Sue grinned. Jenna smiled at that as Sue continued “It isn’t fair but you yourself always say that sometimes life is messy. I always say that it doesn’t come wrapped in a pretty box with curly ribbon.”

“I know but I just can’t figure out how to help Eric to deal with this. He keeps putting it aside and it is just bubbling under the surface,” Jenna explained. As Sue started to speak, Jenna interrupted her saying “The only way he will explode is if I push it and I’m not so sure I want to do that. I need a plan.”

Another intriguing post. You know how to draw the reader in and make them beg for more!

So, I'm begging....

Lynn

Well, I'm begging too. I just don't know quite what I'm begging for. But I'm sure I want to beg for it. Is that screwy or is it just me? Jenna and her family have me curious as to what's going on and I can't wait to see how it all ties together with the team. More soon? Being this curious is agony and I am so not into pain...

Tina

It helps one's sanity level to have at least one good friend who can do that for you!!!

Something we all need to be reminded of from time to time! Thanks for the post, Pam!! (And the reminder.)

Since I'm not all that knowledgable about Jenna and her family (I think I might very well take a trip over to finished works and check out what all the hype is about), she and Sue seem to be very close friends and at least Jenna has someone like Sue to count on when she needs to.

I'm glad Sue and Jenna have become such good friends!! They both benefit from that in many ways!!!

I wonder what Eric needs to explode about???

Joy

And I thought it was just my life package that missed out on the curly ribbon! Well Jenna is right -- it's not fair, though that isn't very consoling. But thankfully Sue is and if Jenna needs a plan, Sue is the perfect person to hatch one with.

kav

This is very intriguing. I too wonder what got Eric all tied up in knots about.

Really intriguing post
Josy

Dear Ms. Matthews,

I guess that should be Mrs. Marino now and I know you said I could call you Tess when we weren’t at school but I can’t it just seems weird even if you’re not my teacher this year.

I loved being in your 4th grade class. I miss being in your 4th grade class. I kind of wanted to stay in 4th grade for the rest of my life but my parents wouldn’t let me. I guess you and the school wouldn’t let me either, so onto 5th grade I went.

Since you are about to experience your first World Series married to a baseball maniac I thought I could give you some advice (not about being married but about the Fall Classic). My dad prefers that questions be asked only during commercial breaks. Some years this rule is not as strictly enforced – it depends on who is announcing the game and who is playing. Don’t ever ask whose playing. Well don’t ask my dad (and I'm guessing Riley either), you can ask anyone else but for some reason if you ask my dad that question during the month of October he acts like he can’t believe everyone in the world doesn’t know. You know, there are lots of people who don’t know, but I haven’t had the heart to tell my dad. Never pick a team because you like their uniforms best (its uniform not outfit). Well, never admit to my dad (and again I'm guessing Riley)that you picked a team because you like their uniforms best. I liked the purple and turquoise team a few years ago and I have never lived that down (they won though). Only serve finger food on game nights. My mom made lasagna one time – it wasn’t pretty.

It is always nice to have back-up entertainment. I can read quite a few books during the month of October. My mom and I always go to the library the day before the playoffs start. This way we can still be part of the game but we are also entertained. Of course you might find it a great opportunity to correct homework. Now if you invite people over you won’t need books obviously but you might want a “serious” TV and a “let’s see if there is anything else on during the commercials” TV.

I’m sure there are many more but I’m supposed to keep this to one page. I’m looking forward to watching the World Series with you. Love, Sophia

PS Just so you know Opening Day of Baseball Season is no more a national holiday than the World Series – don’t believe anyone who tells you different. SP

PPS And when my dad says there will be a quiz later he usually isn’t kidding. He does give points for creative answers which is good otherwise I would never win anything. SP

What are you laughing at?” Riley asked Tess when he arrived home one evening.

“Sophia’s letter,” she grinned at them.

“Can I read it?” he wanted to know after kissing her hello.

She handed it to him after a moment’s consideration then warned “You won’t think it’s as funny.”

I love the real-ness of your dialogue. I feel like I'm sitting in the room! Okay, so there wasn't so much dialogue in this post, but you know what I mean. Each of your characters just speaks so clearly (even in letters!).

Okay, I know that's a lot to quote, but I have to ask if there isn't some personal experiences in there somewhere?

Great work!

I loved Sophia's letter.

I think it's funny. I love baseball, grew up watching St. Louis Cardinals....Bob Gibson, Curt Flood, Lou Brock and Tim McCarver (just to name a few) were my heroes. I actually got to watch them play the Mets in a double header at Shea stadium in 1969, on my birthday no less, and Bob G pitched one of the games. It was the first major league game I had attended (growing up in Wichita all we had were minor league teams.) Best birthday gift I've ever received.

Went to two Astros/Philidelphia playoff games in late 1970's or early 80's and the Astros/Mets 16 inning playoff game, can't remember the year. I was at the Astros game when Mike Scott pitched a one hitter, the night before Nolan Ryan pitched his 6th (I think) no-hitter. Nolan is from the little town 7 miles south of me. My boss used to have lunch with him. I was so envious. My dad loves to watch baseball too. We watched it a lot the four times I've visited him this year.

Sophia is right on about asking those questions. At one time, I was probably just as bad as her father! But, for some reason I haven't gotten into the playoffs or the World Series this year. Hmmm, I wonder if it's b/c there are so many good stories out here on the board, they keep me busy reading.

Now, if Jack played ball, I'd buy me a season ticket! Thanks for the trip down memory lane! I'm liking this Sophia, even though she's not so enamored of watching baseball with her dad. She obviously adores her former teacher. She reminds me of my grandkids who adored all their elementary school teachers and take every opportunity to go visit them now that they are in Jr and Sr high school.

Lynn

I love Sophia's letters!! And, I'm ecstatic that we are visiting with Tess and Riley!!!

I know how Eric feels - I am not really a sports fan on television!! I thoroughly enjoy a really good game of baseball if I'm at the stadium with all the excitement around me!! But I know how some people can get about their games, and I usually make myself scarce and don't ask questions during the time they're watching!!

I know this well because I have the same level of intensity when STFBE is on!!!

Joy

Um, I don't think I would be let into Sophia's house until November...if at all! Love her candor. I can understand wanting to stay in 4th grade the rest of your life -- for me it was 5th grade -- something so delicious about having a two digit birthday! She is wise beyond her years and Tessa would do well to listen to her safe advice.

A/N: Kav I would explain it all to you - actually my 10 year old would because then he would be allowed to talk during a game. I have learned Oreo, after 13 years of marriage, when to ask and when to be quiet!

“Sophia’s letter to Tess was hilarious,” Riley told Jenna when he saw her a few days later.

“You liked it?” Jenna smiled.

“Yeah, but I told Tess that she won’t be reading or correcting homework, she’ll be paying attention,” Riley explained as Jenna raised her eyebrows he continued “She thought that was really funny as well.”

“The only thing I really miss when the month of October is over is the ease of getting Evan to do his homework. He does it right after school, no complaining so he can be ready when the game comes on. Then the incentive is gone and he tends to put it off until after dinner,” Jenna sighed. “It’s hard being the mommy.”

“You’re funny too,” he noted then turning serious asked “How’s Eric handling all of this?”

“Let’s just say he isn’t finding it very amusing – I need a plan,” Jenna said. “There have been other years when he hasn’t looked forward to watching the World Series but nothing like this.”

“Maybe it isn’t the baseball watching that is bothering him,” Riley began, “after all we all went to a game this summer and he was fine with that.” Jenna sighed again, so Riley continued “A plan – right I’ll work on that.”

I think I'm beginning to figure out who the characters are. Now, the question is, will Riley be able to come up with something to help Jenna with a plan? And I'm wondering what in the world the plan could be!

Lynn

I'm really getting a little concerned about Eric!!!

Joy

Hey, Dr. P! This is shaping up to be longer than the actual World Series! And it was a short one.

I always love your story arc with Jenna. Makes me think.

Sophia's letter made me laugh so hard
As for Eric...I'm really wondering
Josy

I loved Sophia's letter!!!!

Eric is really starting to concern me tho.

Okay -- this is my first baseball question, Pam. Why do the players always spit before they pitch a ball or bat a ball...or, well do anything at all? Didn't their mothers tell them it was rude?

Eric doesn't stand a chance with everybody getting in on the 'plan'.

kav

Dear Grandpa,

I wonder if I will get graded down for this? I guess she never said the person had to actually receive the letter. I wish you were here for the World Series. I miss you lots and I know Dad misses you even more. I was worried that he wouldn’t even want to watch the World Series this year but Mom reassured me that he would. I never thought that baseball would be all that important to me but somehow this summer it became that way. It is hard to explain. At first I didn’t want to go to the baseball game when we went to Chicago this summer. Mom said that we were all going – in that voice that says Don’t Cross Me (she used the same voice to tell Dad that too). So we went and somehow despite being sad and missing you I realized how important it was. Baseball is part of our family – it seems that no matter what type of family get together we have, no matter what season, somehow the conversation ends up around baseball. I don’t think it is like that in other families. I asked my mom about that one day and she said that families find comfort in what is familiar. Who would’ve thought that comfort would be found in baseball?

Thank you for patiently explaining and answering my questions even when I ask them during the game (Evan hates it when I do that so sometimes that is why I do it). The World Series surely won’t be the same without you but if you have any pull can you help out our favorite team?

Love you always, Sophia

Ah-ha. No wonder there's such conflict around this World Series. And such sadness.

Can't wait to learn more about this family.

Tina

That letter brought tears to my eyes. What a bitter sweet time in her life!

Sophia's letters are just wonderful, though it is a sad year, since it seems their family won't be complete without Grandpa.