TBT's Winter Short Story Contest

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Gonna slip this here then run back to lurking in the museum.

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Lloid works hard.

For quite some time, we call on a gyroid. With such short stature, you'd think he would be a small part of the island community. A polite pocket-sized fellow, a lighthearted little guy. Atop his head, a yellow hard hat. With a blank face and hollow eyes, he dances, and dances.

Springtime. The cherry-blossoms tumbling in the wind, villagers mingling under pink trees. A local museum curator enjoying his sleep in the shade, two aspiring business tanukis frolicking on the grass, and the resident secretary enjoying the fresh air. You wouldn't think that across the river, there was a certain gyroid doing his best.

There stood a gyroid of tan complexion, maybe an inch or two taller than the red tulips beside him, half the height of most of the villagers. His eyes were blank, his mouth agape. Unlike other gyroids, however, he was much more unique. He had a construction worker's helmet, he could even speak, but he'd be spoken to only a couple of times a day. Though the island was large and bustling with life, Lloid the gyroid would quietly take care of the local's construction donations.

He'd stand next to the bridge plot, which was comfortably close to the river, as the weather was kind with the gentle breeze, sweet aroma of the flowers, and warm hugs from the sun throughout the day. The nights were peaceful and the crickets were just pleasant noise. So for days at a time and sometimes more than a week, Lloid would hold 1 or 2 pouches of bells given to him by several residents. Holding the pouches tightly and guarding them every night, it'd only be until the island representative came by with a hefty contribution to get construction finally started. Spring wasn't too bad.

Then summer would come along as the weather could not make up its mind. Lloid was tasked again with guarding the construction plot and collecting donations, but the heat was unbearable. Several of the villagers would greet Lloid and donate tens of bells, but at the end of the day, they'd be cooling off at home while Lloid would stay at the scorching plot, protecting a bag as heavy as a bug. As summer went on, so did the humidity. The island was no stranger to rain, and boy did it rain. The winds would be harsh, tossing and turning the foliage around Lloid. The tree branches falling all around him as water pelted onto his face. Lloid did not fret as he merely wrapped his arms around the bell pouches and survived through summer storms.

Lloid even knew it was just the beginning as autumn came around. Autumn was rude to Lloid. To a gyroid of small stature, the leaves would pile onto him. The storms would return as it'd get increasingly bitter while the rain was like ice on your skin. The fall season seemed dreadful to Lloid, but there he stood. Just below the orange and red leaves, his little arms holding the pouches of bells as if holding on for dear life.

It's winter now as the villagers are all in their homes for the holidays. Layers upon layers of snow rest on the island as Lloid is resting by the construction plot. It may be cold, but it's silent. A slightly chilly breeze and snowflakes fall by the tired gyroid. Winter has unexpected tidings for Lloid. The island brought no snowstorms, but the sun would greet him with warm hugs and clear skies, the villagers would come by with hot cocoa and carols, even the snow would softly fall around him as he quietly watched.

He'd hold the 1 or 2 pouches of bells with care and make sure the residents get their bridges and their inclines because he, too, is a resident of the island. The island representative will come by soon and donate the rest of the construction fees and even give Lloid a nice break. The island wouldn't have all these bridges if it weren't for him. Plus she heard he loved spring.

With all the bridges built and inclines made this year, he deserved a break.

For you see,
Lloid worked hard.

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this short narrative was based on a comic I made when ACNH was first released. Lloid is my favorite NPC and he deserves so much love ;~;
​
 
Blink. said:
Gonna slip this here then run back to lurking in the museum.

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Lloid works hard.

For quite some time, we call on a gyroid. With such short stature, you'd think he would be a small part of the island community. A polite pocket-sized fellow, a lighthearted little guy. Atop his head, a yellow hard hat. With a blank face and hollow eyes, he dances, and dances.

Springtime. The cherry-blossoms tumbling in the wind, villagers mingling under pink trees. A local museum curator enjoying his sleep in the shade, two aspiring business tanukis frolicking on the grass, and the resident secretary enjoying the fresh air. You wouldn't think that across the river, there was a certain gyroid doing his best.

There stood a gyroid of tan complexion, maybe an inch or two taller than the red tulips beside him, half the height of most of the villagers. His eyes were blank, his mouth agape. Unlike other gyroids, however, he was much more unique. He had a construction worker's helmet, he could even speak, but he'd be spoken to only a couple of times a day. Though the island was large and bustling with life, Lloid the gyroid would quietly take care of the local's construction donations.

He'd stand next to the bridge plot, which was comfortably close to the river, as the weather was kind with the gentle breeze, sweet aroma of the flowers, and warm hugs from the sun throughout the day. The nights were peaceful and the crickets were just pleasant noise. So for days at a time and sometimes more than a week, Lloid would hold 1 or 2 pouches of bells given to him by several residents. Holding the pouches tightly and guarding them every night, it'd only be until the island representative came by with a hefty contribution to get construction finally started. Spring wasn't too bad.

Then summer would come along as the weather could not make up its mind. Lloid was tasked again with guarding the construction plot and collecting donations, but the heat was unbearable. Several of the villagers would greet Lloid and donate tens of bells, but at the end of the day, they'd be cooling off at home while Lloid would stay at the scorching plot, protecting a bag as heavy as a bug. As summer went on, so did the humidity. The island was no stranger to rain, and boy did it rain. The winds would be harsh, tossing and turning the foliage around Lloid. The tree branches falling all around him as water pelted onto his face. Lloid did not fret as he merely wrapped his arms around the bell pouches and survived through summer storms.

Lloid even knew it was just the beginning as autumn came around. Autumn was rude to Lloid. To a gyroid of small stature, the leaves would pile onto him. The storms would return as it'd get increasingly bitter while the rain was like ice on your skin. The fall season seemed dreadful to Lloid, but there he stood. Just below the orange and red leaves, his little arms holding the pouches of bells as if holding on for dear life.

It's winter now as the villagers are all in their homes for the holidays. Layers upon layers of snow rest on the island as Lloid is resting by the construction plot. It may be cold, but it's silent. A slightly chilly breeze and snowflakes fall by the tired gyroid. Winter has unexpected tidings for Lloid. The island brought no snowstorms, but the sun would greet him with warm hugs and clear skies, the villagers would come by with hot cocoa and carols, even the snow would softly fall around him as he quietly watched.

He'd hold the 1 or 2 pouches of bells with care and make sure the residents get their bridges and their inclines because he, too, is a resident of the island. The island representative will come by soon and donate the rest of the construction fees and even give Lloid a nice break. The island wouldn't have all these bridges if it weren't for him. Plus she heard he loved spring.

With all the bridges built and inclines made this year, he deserved a break.

For you see,
Lloid worked hard.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

this short narrative was based on a comic I made when ACNH was first released. Lloid is my favorite NPC and he deserves so much love ;~;
​
Click to expand...
omg qhwisndjsisjd i never thought about Lloid like that 😭
tysm for blessing us with this amazing writing piece!
 
A Sisterly Snow​

Ramen sat, looking out her window. The flat expanse of her small-but-loved island was covered in pure white. Snow sprinkled from the sky like falling, icy stars. Watching her villagers frolic in the snow outside, Ramen sighed. She wanted to go outside and play in the freshly fallen flakes very badly, but she didn’t have anyone to play with. Of course she had her villagers, but Ramen could never work up the courage to ask them if she could join in on the fun... It didn’t occur to her that she could call Lavender, her sister, until a bright yellow plane landed by her airport.
“Hello there, BALD-” Lavender started to say, but was cut off by Ramen blowing a tweeter to silence her.
“Silence, MORTAL!” Shouted Ramen. Lavender picked up a cold, white snowball, and hurled it at Ramen. Ramen looked at her in frustration.

“Wow, Ramen. That face was unnecessary. I came to build your snow-boy for personal profit.”

“It’s MY ISLAND! I didn’t even open my gates!”

“Well someone did. I bet it was the ghosts. Well, I’m going to pick your flowers now... BYE!”

“GET BACK HERE!” Ramen screamed with anger.

“Can we at least play in the snow?” asked Lavender.

“Fine.”

Slowly, the chaotic pair stepped off the shoveled entrance and onto the snow-covered grass. It was so freezing, that Ramen was able to feel it through her boots. So much for those “Cold-proof slip ons!”, 100,000 bells, wasted. While Ramen was mourning over her money, Lavender scooped up a handful of icy frost. She shaped it into a round sphere, and threw it at Ramen with all of her might.
“Ouch! What was that for?”

“Crying ain’t gonna fix those boots or get your bells back, you know!”

“Okay, just don’t throw those things at me. Let’s try to have a fun time without hurting each other,”

To shelter from the cold, the sisters went inside Ramen’s house.

“I’m bored,” Sighed Lavender.

“It’s literally been two seconds,”

“I’m still bored,”

“Whatever,”

Ramen turned on the TV, hoping it would silence Lavender. To her relief, it did. A show called “Cooking With Raymond” came on. “Hm? This looks interesting.” said Ramen, intrigued.
“Welcome to, Cooking With Raymond...yay,” said a bored announcer. He wasn’t doing a very good job being enthusiastic. Or maybe he just wasn’t trying to be… A grey, smug-looking cat stepped out on stage.
“Hello, everyone! Today, your beautiful host Raymond will be making amazing, perfect, delicious spaghetti!” He took out a bowl, and filled it with water.
“First, you need to dump the box…” said Raymond. He dumped the entire thing in.
“Then, you boil the water…” Raymond cranked up the knob, and turned it around. It was too hot.
“AH!” shouted Raymond. The bubbles had gone over the stove, and the bowl turned red-hot. Raymond ran away, screaming. “TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES!” was shouted, before the show simply turned off. Another one began in its place with some guy singing.

“Never gonna give you up, never gonna-”

“NOPE!”

Ramen yelled and shut the TV off. “How about we...do something else?” Suggested Ramen’s sister. Lavender turned on the fireplace, (to Ramen’s dismay), and they took out some hot cocoa to share in Ramen’s cherry-blossom room. Petals fell from trees in a faraway dimension that was Ramen’s wall. The fire crackled in the fireplace as the sisters sipped their warm drinks. Huddled under soft blankets, Lavender and Ramen clinked their cups together.

“Cheers, to a new year!”
 
Searching for Snow Bunny

Mother Bunny would always say "Remember you are important to me, Snow Bunny.
You are clever and you will always find your way home to our family."​

Snow Bunny was the youngest of five siblings born in the cold month of January. All of the baby bunnies lived with Mother Bunny in a burrow underneath a beautiful willow tree. His ears were a little on the stubby side, he couldn't hop as high as his siblings could, and his white coat was slick against the icy environment. He stood out compared to his siblings who were shades of brown and gray. He wondered why he was different than them.

Mother Bunny loved all of her babies and taught each of them how to find food and how to stay away from predators. It was important for the young bunnies to learn these skills and to always stay alert. Playtime outside could become dinner time in seconds as prey easily could take advantage of a young bunny. A worried Mother Bunny would watch from afar as the young bunnies explored the world around them. She especially worried about Snow Bunny as he was easily left behind when his siblings ran off to play in the piles of snow outside of their burrow.

The oldest bunny challenged the others to another game of hide and seek. Snow Bunny struggled to find a good hiding place whenever he played with his siblings and he knew he had to find a spot that no one would find. He reasoned that since he was smaller than his siblings that he could wiggle into the tiniest locations and the white snow would mask his fluffy coat. He ran off as far as his paws could carry him. Quickly he hid amongst a fallen tree where the snow was quickly falling into a pile as his ears were the only part of him that stuck out.

Snow Bunny eagerly waited as he heard his siblings being found in their hiding spots. He could hear their little paw steps come closer and closer.....until they stopped and turned around. He let out a sigh of relief as he realized he finally won a game of hide and seek. He patiently waited for his siblings to return so he could hop out of the snow and surprise them, but no one came.

After waiting a few more minutes, Snow Bunny began to run after his siblings, but the surrounding environment was unfamiliar to him. In the distance he noticed the rusty outline of a fox moving amongst the trees. His mother taught him all about foxes and how they are quick to attack young bunnies far from their burrows. The fox picked up his scent and began tracking him through the dense forest. Snow Bunny felt his jaw clench as he braced for the jaws of the fox.

Without a warning, the discouraged fox halted and turned away just as he was closing in on the young bunny. After coming to his senses Snow Bunny realized the falling snow had completely covered him just like in hide and seek. It saved him from being devoured by a hungry fox. Engulfed in fear all he could do was crouch in his snow pile beneath a large fir tree as he struggled to stay warm. He tucked in his paws and pressed against the tree for little warmth as the impending snowstorm began to blacken the sky. All he could do was hope to find his home in the morning if the fox didn't return to get him first.

Suddenly a soft nudge on his side startles his thoughts as he glances up to see his mother looking down at him. She had somehow found him in the midst of the storm and she quickly led him back to their burrow where his siblings eagerly greeted him. All he could do was apologize for running off and for almost getting eaten by a fox. Mother Bunny could only reassure him that he was safe now and that he did exactly what she taught him. Snow Bunny snuggled up against her and he promised her that he would never make her worry again.
 
The Ice Maiden​

He trudged through the thick snow, sinking up to his knees with every step. On a make-shift sled behind him, he lugged a block of ice as long as he was tall. The sun was just cresting over the treetops, dissipating the light fog that hung in the air.

Reaching his cabin, the only man-made structure for miles, he hoisted the ice block onto its end and set to work with his chisel and hammer. His art consumed him for the entirety of the day. He took no breaks for either food or rest. Finally, by the light of the waxing moon, he stepped back to survey his completed piece.

Before him stood a sculpture of a beautiful woman, soft of expression and graceful in manner. She seemed to glow with an otherworldly light beneath the twinkling stars. He placed a hand on her cold, smooth cheek and looked longingly into her soulless eyes. As the heavens looked on, he made a wish that his loneliness would end, that he would be blessed with a companion to love and cherish.

Sighing, he turned and entered his house, exhausted from the day's exertions.

The following morning, he peeked from his window to gaze once more upon his creation. But it was nowhere to be seen. He rushed outside and, as he approached the location of his sculpture, he stopped in shock. Where his ice maiden had stood, a woman now lay unconscious in the snow.

Her hair was pure white and glistened in the sunrise. Her skin and lips had a pale bluish hue. She seemed small and vulnerable amid the endless snowy landscape.

The man scooped her up and carried her inside. Wrapping her in his thickest blanket, he set her by the hearth and hastily started a fire to warm her. Within moments, her eyelids fluttered open to reveal eyes as bright and clear as the midday sky.

Confusion wrinkled her brow. The man quickly explained how he had found her and that he meant her no harm. The mysterious woman could not remember anything of her past. She knew nothing of how she came to be passed out in the snow. She did not even know her own name.

Brushing aside these concerns, the man fixed her a warm meal and assured her that she was welcome to stay with him as long as was necessary. The road into the nearest town would not be clear until spring so until then he knew of nowhere else for her to go. Thanking him for his kindness, she gratefully accepted his offer.

Over the following days and weeks, the couple found themselves growing closer. They felt comfort in each other's presence, as if they had been together all their lives, as if they belonged together.

During the day, the man worked on his sculptures and the woman was greatly impressed with their realism. His heart swelled with pride each time she expressed her awe and admiration.

At night, they sat in front of the fire, conversing. He withheld nothing from her and, although she could not share any details of her past for she still had no memories prior to the day he found her, she was open and honest regarding her thoughts and feelings.

In the warm glow of the firelight, with their eyes gleaming and their cheeks flushed, it did not take long for the topic of marriage to be broached. Both were eager for such a union to take place. However, they could not make it into town until the first thaw, which was still many weeks away. This did not dampen their spirits, though, as they found so much joy in each other's company that the wait merely heightened the anticipation.

Their lives went on in this manner until spring drew near and the woman began to grow increasingly weak. The day came when she could not even muster the strength to leave the bed. The man tended to her lovingly, providing all the care she could possibly wish for. All the while, he was anxiously watching for the tell-tale signs that winter was coming to a close so he could get her to a doctor.

One day, the man awoke to the sounds of birds chirping outside the window. Looking outside, he was thrilled to see a strong morning sun bearing down on the snow, causing it to melt. By the time he could ready everything for their journey, the remaining slush should be passable.

He rushed to the woman's bedside only to find it empty. In despair, he threw back the covers and discovered they were soaked clean through. Nothing remained of the woman, his love, except a few slivers of ice. Gathering them up in his hands, the man wept.

**********​

The chill in the air had grown harsh. That evening, the man pulled his winter bedding from the wardrobe and left the fire going until he was ready to retire. As he sat before the flames, he remembered the woman who had once sat beside him, the woman who had laughed with him, the woman who had loved him. A single tear came to his eye and he did not bother to brush it away.

The next morning, he could see a heavy snowfall through the windowpanes. Pulling on his coat and boots, he opened the door to grab some firewood from the porch but froze in surprise. Standing there in the snow, beaming at him blissfully, was the woman. She had returned to him.

Overjoyed, he ran to her and drew her into his embrace. Clutching her tightly and gazing into her luminous eyes, he vowed to take pleasure in every moment that they were granted, this winter and in all the winters to come.
 
An Everlasting Memory


One very cold day in the isle of Wackiki, the wind-driven snow brought freezing temperatures and a blustering wind that made the trees leaves shake abruptly. The grass was clothed in a cloak of snow and the stars twinkled among the night sky as the clouds strolled by. Most of the villagers from the island were still resting from the winter days, comfortably cozy in their beds and tranquil homes. All except one, a rabbit named Hopkins who wasn't able to get sleep due to the harsh noises of the breezy wind.

He proceeded along the pathway, with nothing but his arms folded to keep himself warm. His ears were cold and the poor visibility made it difficult for him to view his surroundings clearly. Hopkins wandered all on his own, without his friends, who slumbered in their homes. Suddenly, he heard strange noises from behind him. As the mysterious creature drew closer, it perked up its ears and revealed two round, beaded eyes. It was Flurry, who was unable to get rest due to the harsh howling of the wind. Flurry explained to Hopkins that she too couldn't sleep, traveling around the island on her own while her friends slept in their own abode. "I almost transformed into a frosty Snowboy!" Hopkins told Flurry as he shivered atop a pile of icy cold snow.

As his teeth continued to chatter because of the weather, Hopkins gazed upon Flurry as she revealed something hidden behind her. It was a neatly wrapped gift, with small decorations shown around the wrapping paper. Flurry smiles, "I had an extra one of these tucked away in my house, so I decided to give this to you!", she said as Hopkins gently opened the gift for him. With an astonished look, Hopkins held the fluffy coat that was wrapped within the gift that Flurry had given him. He immediately shoved his arms into the warm sleeves of the coat and let out a sigh of relief as he felt the warmth of the coat surround his chilly body. Hopkins sprang towards Flurry with open arms and gave her a heartwarming hug as he tried to hold his tears back.

The snowfall left a scene of snow-clad trees, as Flurry led Hopkins towards her residence among the hills. She kindly opened the front door and invited Hopkins into her house. Hopkins mentioned how magnificent the interior of Flurry's house was after he brushed off the snow attached underneath his cold feet on the welcome mat. The scent of pine cones permeated the room while the song "Stale Cupcakes" played on a music player. There was a wintry sight of snowfall visible through the windows as the curtains gently swayed amongst the tranquility inside the home. Hopkins attempted to play his favorite song from the piano that Flurry had in her room. Flurry let out a burst of laughter as she noticed Hopkins playing the piano with only his long, blue ears. "It's a natural talent of mine to play the piano like this!" mentioned Hopkins while Flurry had an outburst of laughter.

After the comedic performance, Flurry decided to stir up a delectable meal for the night. She prepared a nice, steaming bowl of soup for the both to enjoy. It was the most scrumptious meal that Hopkins had ever consumed. His eyes sparkled with joy with every sip of the soup that he devoured. Once the meal was finished, both of the villagers spent the rest of the night listening to a soundtrack of soothing winter tunes. Hopkins was delighted to become friends with such a compassionate and caring villager on the isle of Wackiki. He couldn't wait to tell the rest of his friends all about his new friend named Flurry. While the winter music provided a mellow ambience, Hopkins's eyelids soon became as weary as a buried pitfall seed. Everything was absolutely peaceful and it was the perfect time to take a nap. Flurry took a quick peek behind the curtains and was glad to see that the weather condition outside had calmed down. The wind was no longer as frigid as before and it began to snow moderately. "What a wonderful scene to admire"; Flurry said to herself as Hopkins suddenly began to snore as he slept upon the bed.

Nighttime came and went and it was time for the sun to rise. Hopkins awoke to the sunlight hitting his face, the yellow rays shone brightly through the window. He looked around the room in concern after realizing the disappearance of Flurry's presence. "She was here not too long ago..." he thought as he zippered up the coat that Flurry gave to him the day before. With a worrisome expression, Hopkins twisted the doorknob to depart outdoors in search of his friend. A large snowball was hurled directly at his face, only to leave him falling face-first upon a pile of snow in front of the house. "It's that time of the season to have a snowball fight!" said an unknown voice in excitement. Other voices were also heard as Hopkins lifted his face out of the snow. Standing in front, was Flurry, extending her hand out to help Hopkins who had just fallen onto the ground. "Come and enjoy this winter wonderland with us all!" Flurry said as she formed a snowball with her paws.

To his enthusiasm, Hopkins displayed a smile of excitement after seeing all of the villagers outside having snowball fights and enjoying their time altogether. He greeted them all and also introduced them to Flurry. Portia, Pecan, Ankha, Vladimir, and the rest of the villagers were joyful to meet Hopkins's newest friend on the island. They proceeded their snowball fight and launched multiple snowballs across the air at each other. Flurry threw a snowball towards Vladimir, leaving him covered with a layer of cold snow atop his head. He shouts "What in tarnation?!", while wiping away the snow as the villagers howled with laughter. Pecan and Portia sat next to a campfire while warming themselves with a cup of hot and creamy chocolate topped with white fluffy marshmallows. Perched high on a hill stood Ankha, where she took her time taking photos on a royal throne made of freshly fallen snow.

The cold morning outside had been a frosty, fun time. The villagers had an enjoyable snowball fight, and crafted a Snowboy that was displayed at the plaza. They got to sled down a snowy hill and raced against one another. To top off the morning, everyone sang an assortment of K.K. Slider songs, with their jolly singing loud enough to be heard throughout the entire island. It was the most amazing wintry experience that ever happened on the isle of Wackiki. Right after the joyous entertainment with the villagers, Hopkins left to his home with a grin as bright as a star fragment. He thought of the wonderful moment when he first met and introduced his friend Flurry to his other friends that he spent time with and how everyone got together and celebrated such an entertaining day. His mind longed to have another fun-filled day again. As Hopkins strolled next to his house, something peculiar drew his attention. The corner of a handwritten letter peered out of the mailbox front from beside his home.

Without hesitation, Hopkins grabbed the letter and unfolded it. He perceived the smell of pine cones that pervaded the air around him. "That scent of pine cones..." Hopkins thought to himself. It was a scent that he recalled while staying over at Flurry's house. He began to read the letter in its entirety. In the letter, Flurry had described how amazing of a friend Hopkins was to her and the other villagers. It was such a pleasant experience that will never be forgotten. The fun that she had with her friends made her day even brighter and cheerful. After reading the letter, a framed photo that was attached to the letter presented the moment when all of the villagers built a Snowboy to commemorate the exciting time they had altogether. A tear of joy as glistening as a snowflake streamed down Hopkins's cheek.

After admiring the photo, Hopkins entered his house and displayed the photo up on the wall to remember the memorable moment that he had with his beloved friends. Before Hopkins decided to get some rest, he took another look at the photo as he suddenly realized something that made him giggle with laughter. A grumpy Vladimir was stuck inside the Snowboy, with his fluffy head peeping out the top of the snow, leaving his hair looking like a chaotic mess. It was an experience that will forever be cherished on the island of Wackiki.​
 
Authors notes: I'm in no way an Author nor do I tend to write all that much but I wanted to get involved and yesterday things seemed to flow so here we are. Please forgive my less than professional style!

A little unsteady

Pietro awoke from what had been a less than restful sleep the curves of the crescent moon chair had shaped his back in a less than forgiving position. Slowly unfolding like a cat awaking from a nap in front of the fireplace he stretched his already aching limbs. He silently cursed those who took joy out of reminding him that crescent moon chairs almost certainly didn’t make an appropriate bed. Pietro had never been one to follow the crowd, in fact if anything he took pleasure in creating a group all of his own far distant from ‘the crowd’. His house contained things that brought him pleasure, sure a candy floss machine wasn’t exactly a slow cooker when entertaining but it was almost certainly fun! His hooves instinctively went to smooth down his multi-coloured woollen coat that had gathered in an unfortunate shape over his stomach as he had slept. Side glancing the mirror on the wall he forced a smile to form. He was a clown sheep – let’s face who wouldn’t smile at that. Turning to face the outside world he felt it slipping slightly. It was ironic but the tear drop under his right eye perhaps most accurately reflected how he was really feeling inside.

It wasn’t that he didn’t love his life on Hobbiton – it had in fact been one of the best decisions he had ever made but amongst the business cat and silly orange deer he had felt quite alone. The island rep Emmsey had been sure to visit him every day since he had moved here and whilst he was touched by the sentiment it still hadn’t helped him feel any less alone. He had come from a large extended family of course he was one of six lambs so there wasn’t all that much chance to feel alone and that was before next lambing season brought him another handful of brothers and sisters. It of course had been his choice to go out into the world alone, his choice to move to an island he knew next to nothing about. He sighed audibly forcing back the smile that threatened to fall from his red lips took a swift intake of air pulled open the door and stepped out into the winter morning.

The sky was clear for now at least, the relentless snowfall however had left Hobbiton and its rooftops shrouded in a blanket of white. Grateful for the warmth his multi-coloured coat would offer he shook off the breeze and headed out down the path towards Nooks stopping only momentarily to water a white pansy which sat alone just off the path. ‘Pietro!’, he heard the call even before he saw a smiling Raymond crossing the plaza towards him. Stopping as he reached him Pietro couldn’t help but watch as the business cat expressed joy in just waiting for him to acknowledge him. ‘Raymond! That’s it I’m getting a publicist. Honk Honk’, even as the words passed his lips he grimaced. ‘Sorry, I don’t know why I said that. What’s up?’, he questioned.

The business cat’s brow furrowed with confusion a tuft of his blonde hair falling it his eye. Swiping out of the way with a paw a smile passed his lips. ‘Did you hear?’, he questioned barely pausing for longer than a beat before following with, ‘Emmsey found someone off island, they move in today’, he added with excitement. Pietro cast his mind back to Agent S’s leaving do only days earlier, the peppy squirrel had left to pursue her solo career or some such thing. He was happy for her of course but it was one less member of Hobbiton’s chorus line. He almost certainly hadn’t stopped to consider the one out one in thing that seemed to be the case with Hobbiton’s population. Of course, that had where he had been found, spiral island had always been nice in summer when the tarantulas had finally disappeared. The sunset had always been one of his favourite sights, he had found himself lost in it. So much so that it had taken him quite by surprise when Emmsey had vaulted over asking him to move to Hobbiton. Naturally he had agreed and had moved in the next day working into the wee hours to get the positioning of those crescent moon chairs just right.

Lost in thought he had quite forgotten the business cat opposite him, ‘I thought you might want to stop by and say hi. I’m off to Nook’s to pick up a present – something practical of course’, he added breaking the sheep’s thought trail. With that the cat disappeared as promptly as he had arrived headed in the direction of Nooks. Pietro watched as he finally disappeared from view swallowed up by the doors of the shop. His hooves sought to bypass Nook’s altogether and made across the bridge to the plot that only yesterday laid unoccupied. In its place now stood a house, pale logged exterior with red roof. Through the slightly ajar window the unmistakeable tones of KK Country. He paused at the boundary to the property summoning what could only be considered as the confidence to knock on and open the door.

As was customary without waiting for a reply he stepped inside the house hooves finding a familiar almost comforting green lawn beneath them. His eyes fell down to it holding on to the way it made him feel for a few moments. The memories of home, of family, of completeness before looking up to observe the properties sole occupant. His gaze paused following the familiar line of a hooved leg until it hit the unmistakable line of a woollen coat. His brain was momentarily confused not entirely sure what exactly it was expecting to observe but least of all expecting that. Skipping up to the woollen occupant’s face he was aware of that his jaw was somewhat ajar as he took the form in.

‘Hi, I’m Dom’, the voice shattered the stunned silence. The smile which had earlier been faltering returned to Pietro’s face as his brain pieced together the clues he was faced with. This woollen figure had been a sheep, a fleece as white as snow and pink faced with eyes the size of UFO’s but a sheep none the less. The sheep’s smile matched his own. ‘Hi, I’m Pietro, Welcome to Hobbiton’, his voice sounded pitchy, underused and he felt suddenly embarrassed at the sound of it a shade of red colouring his pale cheeks. He hadn’t stopped to consider that Hobbiton’s newest resident might be actually be a sheep. He took a breath a weight falling away which until now had been holding him down, perhaps today would be a good day after all?​
 
The Kitten Who Lost Her Mitten - an Animal Crossing Winter Short Story
(632 Words)
It was a sublime January afternoon, the sun poked through the silver sky and the sound of snow fluffs falling made a faint crunching sound only the ears of the feline residents of the isle of Keet Largo could hear. Many of the residents went about their days in the usual ways; practicing singing like popstars, lifting weights to get swole, shopping, and making projects from their dreams of Maglevs in Love. But one kitty, Lolly, was not so calm. This gray stripped tabby went about the island with a streak of seriousness, as she had only one of her white striped mittens!

Lolly tried to remember when she lost her toasty mitt but couldn’t recall. She decided she would retrace her steps over the island. The first place she went to in the morning was Cozmie Cakes bakery to grab a pastry for breakfast with Rosie. She went to the pastel shop looking for her mitten but found nothing but cupcakes, cakes, and crumbs left from Rosie’s donut. Next she went to the clifftop Zen Garden where she had done yoga with Tangy. The only thing she found there were outdoor baths and lanterns.

She retraced her steps to the snowy lavender farms where she met with Kiki for the outdoor book club. Though she searched the bench and the fields, she only found a white pillow and purple blooms that prospered even in the winter. She didn’t mind the strangeness of flowers surrounded by snow and continued quicker as her toe beans began turning rosy from the cold.

She made her way to the beach, past the fish bait shop and down main street, and finally came to Koi Cat Sushi. She had eaten lunch with Kabuki here and he spoke to her about his time sailing on a fishing boat and tried to recruit her as his first mate. Lolly looked under the tables and around the hearth but found nothing but bento boxes filled with sticky rice and pots of soy sauce. Lolly grew worried having only one place left to check, the campsite where she had built snowmen with Punchy and Rex.

The gray kitty searched through the snow and near the little campfire trying to remember when her paw first became bare, but found nothing but paw prints pressed into the snow and the three freshly built snowmen. Lolly scampered in place trying to warm her paw pad, her toe beans like icicles where they were exposed. She whimpered a moment and started to cry, afraid that her mitten was lost forever, when the voice of a less than grateful snowboy called out to her.

“What. Is. Going. On” The snowboy with a large head and small body called out to her, his voice dripping in dissatisfaction.

Lolly held up her two paws and only one had the white mitten on it, “I lost my mitten when I was playing today. I looked everywhere I went, but it wasn’t anywhere!” Her face pouted again.

The snowboy shifted a moment, “I haven’t seen your mitten, but would you scratch my back? Something feels itchy.”

Lolly helped scratch the snowman’s back and her claw caught on a piece of thread. She carefully pulled her paw back and out from the snowboys seam, came a white mitten!

The snowboy rolled slightly from side to side, “I’m so embarrassed! Turns out I had this white mitten stuck to me.”

Lolly took the mitten and dusted the snow off it before sticking her paw inside and she hugged the snowboy before she parted and headed back home, with a bounce in her step. She hung her mittens to dry and went to bed and dreamed of how warm and cozy all her toe beans would be on the adventures she’d have tomorrow.

I wanted to write a winter animal crossing story that showed off some of my favorite residents and the features on my island, Keet Largo. We have a pastel dream bakery called Cozmie Café, a beautiful cliff-top Zen Garden, a lush lavender farm, a gorgeous brick boardwalk, a sushi shop called Koi Cat Sushi, and a natural campsite where snowballs spawn and snowmen are built. I really had a lot of fun with this writing prompt and tried to include references to the game (villager activities, peronalities, past conversations with villagers and the infamous imperfect snowboy conversation lines, etc.) I hope you enjoy it!
 
~The Starkeeper’s Friendship~​


In an enchanted clearing secret to humans the most extraordinary creatures would appear during winter. They were known as the Starkeepers. Large celestial birds with long, shimmering tail feathers, wings as dazzling as starlight and eyes more exquisite than jewels, the Starkeepers would soar across the night sky like comets, but there was one Starkeeper who was the smallest of his kind. He was not a strong flier and his feathers were not quite as dazzling, but the light in his heart was sincere and true. Even so, the other Starkeepers paid him no heed. It discouraged him, being such a small thing...and as the wistful little Starkeeper continued to watch the world, he sometimes wondered if anyone would watch him, too, somewhere in that world.

As all the kingdom took to peaceful slumber, one bedroom light in all the palace remained on. Sitting upon her windowsill, the princess gazed at the starry sky, expression pensive. Though her room was brimming with all sorts of wonderful gifts from her suitors, such trivial gestures could never win her heart. How could she care for such things when all she could ever want was right here, watching the stars she admired so.

The king, however, was pompous and greedy. He was very pleased to have all the gold and treasures that he had. The princess did not think the same way like her father; hers was a virtuous, charitable heart. Where the king would take, the princess would give. The king saw fine, loyal young men ready for marriage, but the princess knew their wily ways.

“Think of the alliances that could be forged!” he would beam with pride.

“And what of my happiness, father?” but she would shake her head. “Is that not of greater value? I cannot marry a man whose mouth speaks of love and promises but whose eyes speak of my title or my money,” and would return to her windowsill. Often the princess would wonder, as she wistfully looked out at that vast night sky, if there was a star out there watching over her, too…

One night as the princess slept a gentle light flooded her room from the window. Stirred from her slumber, she went to close the curtains but stopped. When she took in the sight of that distant aurora all thoughts of sleep at once dissipated from her mind, face filled with wonder. Putting on her coat, the princess snuck away from the palace and went into the snowy woods, following the light of the aurora. Everybody knew the trees of the woods played tricks, but the light guided her down the path like a tender hand holding hers, a path no human had ever tread before.

Soon the princess came to a clearing, and that’s when she saw them—the Starkeepers. She watched in astonishment as the marvelous creatures joyfully flew about in the sky, the glittery glow of their tail feathers trailing ribbons of light, creating the aurora. Their calls were hauntingly beautiful.

The Starkeepers were incredible to see, but then she noticed one all by himself. He was so small and looked so lonely that the princess had nothing but compassion for him and went to console him.

“You dear creature, what’s wrong? Why do you not fly with the others?” she asked, but the little Starkeeper only gave a despondent cry. For a moment the princess’s face fell but then her blue eyes twinkled with an idea.

“Please don’t be so sad,” she smiled. “I’ll come visit you every night, then we could make this our own secret place.”

The little Starkeeper was touched by this girl who spoke so kindly and sweetly to him, and so every night that winter the princess returned to the clearing. She showed him how she could make snow angels and he showed her how he could glide about, wanting to try his very best for her, and it didn’t matter that he was one thing and she another—he sang his jubilant song, she laughed her cheerful laugh… The woodland animals all agreed they were the happiest pair there had ever been.

The princess told him of her hopes and dreams, her ambitions and sorrows. She told him how she would be left heartbroken, for she felt certain nobody loved her, all the while shedding big tears. And the little Starkeeper listened and looked at her and only her, for he did not see riches or even the crown upon her head. He only saw a young woman he would not hurt for the world.

On the final night of winter, it was time for the Starkeepers to return to the realm of the cosmos.

The princess was sad to see him go, but then the little Starkeeper did something wondrous. Using every bit of his power he made a star, a small yet beautiful star that emitted a comforting glow. The princess was simply captivated. It would mean everything to him if he could always make her smile like that, but how could she ever love such a small, sorry creature? This made him feel discouraged, but to the princess his eyes spoke more sincerely, more beautifully than any words ever could and thought that was a silly thing for him to think about, for of course she could.

“I see no small, sorry creature,” she told him, “but the grandest, sweetest creature in the whole world,” and she placed a tender kiss upon his petite head. “My darling Starkeeper, I’ll always be thinking of you, and no matter how far we might be, as long as we look at our star, we won’t ever be lonely.” And so, the princess let the star go into the sky where it shone brightly over the kingdom.

The princess continued to dream of the stars, looking out at the night sky as she tucked some of her wheat-gold hair behind her ear. And whenever her gaze fell upon their star she couldn’t help but miss her beloved friend so. She wished strongly upon the star every night from her windowsill, longing to be with her friend again.

Then suddenly, one winter night, when the princess was sure she heard familiar calls in the distance she hastened to the balcony. It was her greatest pleasure to behold the wonderful return of the Starkeepers. The creatures flew gracefully in the sky, but there was one Starkeeper who flew strongly and proudly—he was the biggest, most dazzling Starkeeper of them all. Landing on the balcony, the charming creature bowed before his princess, earning another one of her radiant smiles. No matter what the princess could always recognize those gentle eyes, and so, reunited at last, the two fondly pressed their heads together.

“My darling Starkeeper, how good it is to see you again,” she said, stroking his long neck.

Her heartfelt wishes had given the little Starkeeper the strength to become mighty. His wings were filled with the strength to fly across vast galaxies, further than he had ever gone, but he would always return, for this world was the loveliest place he knew, where a princess and a Starkeeper could meet in perfect happiness.

But as the king watched the Starkeepers, desire gripped his heart. Such exquisite creatures… He must have them, then he could admire their beauty whenever he pleased.

“Prove your loyalty to me! Capture the Starkeepers and bring them to me!” the king ordered the suitors and at once they readied themselves. They raised their weapons and threw their nets, caring not if they hurt the creatures. The Starkeepers, who knew only peace, were so frightened they didn’t know what to do and one by one they were captured. How the princess pleaded, but her father only ignored her. He was especially interested in the biggest, most dazzling Starkeeper, but the creature would not let himself be so easily captured. He swiftly dodged their weapons and not a net could brush his feathers, but one young man took careful aim and let his arrow fly, striking him. Down tumbled the creature, and it seemed he would at last be captured, but using his remaining strength he flew away to the woods.

The suitors gave chase, but because of the wickedness in their hearts the trees of the woods confounded them with illusions. The princess, however, knew the way, for the goodness in her heart would always take her to the secret path of the woods, reaching the enchanted clearing first. There she found her friend lying upon the snow in much pain.

“Oh sweet creature!” cried the tearful princess, rushing to his side. “Look what’s happened to you…!” The Starkeeper couldn’t move, so deep was his wound. He could only think about the plight of his fellow Starkeepers; to have their freedom suddenly taken away from them...

Suddenly the sound of footsteps became louder and the princess’s face became pale with terror. “No! They shan’t have you!” she gasped. “Please! You mustn’t stay here! Fly away!"

The Starkeeper refused, giving her a pleading cry.

“You must. Even if I am to never see you again, then so be it, but I must know that you will be safe…!” Her voice broke with emotion. “Please! I cannot bear to lose you!”

Within moments the suitors appeared, along with the king.

“My daughter, you will give the creature to me,” he ordered.

“I won’t,” said the princess firmly. She spoke not only to her father but to the suitors as well. “Have you no sympathy for these creatures? What you have done is shameful and wrong. By taking the Starkeepers, you have taken the beauty of the night sky. This beauty is not there for your selfish desires and it is no one’s possession. It is there for all to see."

The Starkeeper stood faithfully by his princess's side.

But the king’s covetous heart could not be moved. “You dare to defy me as well, creature? Very well, does your happiness mean more to you than the glow of your feathers?”

“No! I won’t let you give up the glow of your feathers!” the princess protested, but the Starkeeper gave it and as soon as he did he dazzled like starlight no more.

“Now give me the might of your wings."

“No! You mustn’t give up the might of your wings!” Once again the princess protested and once again the Starkeeper gave up what was his. As soon as he did all the strength left his wings, never to fly again.

“And your eyes… How they gleam with beauty. Give that to me,” was the king’s final command.

“Not that, not your beautiful eyes! I won’t allow it! You noble creature, you gave and you gave but now I will give. I will give all that I have and all that I am if it meant we could take this happiness far away with us.”

And then, a truly extraordinary thing happened. In answer of this profound wish a brilliant light enveloped the Starkeeper, his form slowly changing before everyone’s eyes, and where a creature of feathers and wings once was now stood a resplendently dressed prince with long, flowing white hair. The king was astonished. He did not believe this could be that very same creature, but the princess never doubted, for she needed only take one look into those gentle eyes.

Hand in hand they walked up a path of stars, higher and higher to the realm of the cosmos. With their freedom restored, the Starkeepers soared alongside them. The princess and the Starkeeper never gave the thought of marriage any mind. And why should they? There was no better way of delighting in their love than simply being together, laughing together, and dreaming together.

And every winter, whenever an aurora appeared in the sky the people of the kingdom were sure they saw two happy figures playing in the stars and couldn’t help but feel happy themselves for some reason.
 
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It was Christmas in animal crossing and Erik had just moved to a island but there was someone special about him he was a rain deer and he didn’t know it but he always thought he was weird because nobody liked him because he was a rain deer but it was really just jealousy he could fly but he didn’t know it but Christmas morning something special happed he saw jingle outside and he knew it was him once he saw the hat he got so excited he jumped out of bed and ran outside but so see something sad jingle had lost his bag so he immediately ran around the island looking for it about 40 minutes of looking he found it he brought it back to jingle and jingle said thank you and said you have saved Christmas and as soon as you knew it the entire island was thanking him in the afternoon of Christmas they all brought nice food and they all thanked jingle and Erik for such a nice Christmas they ate the food and did a Christmas tradition and went around the island looking at the Christmas light on all the houses Erik knew that he had finally fit in and they kept walking around and they came to his house and said to him that he had some nice decorations and they said that they were proud of his house they reached the park and stopped for a break and just admired the beauty of the season after they were done they all went home but as he walked in he was surprised it was his mother and father standing in front of him he rushed to them hugging them he was so happy they pulled out the gifts for Erik and said merry Christmas they were some new sweaters he was so happy he showed them around his house and then they went outside he showed them the island and all it’s beauty’s and they thought it was wonderful he showed them the pond the park the neighborhood and the best of all the beach it was cold but it was lovely at the sunset they decided to head home they sat by the fire and told stories about their life as usual Erik told the story about when he and his friend knocked down the Christmas tree and they tried to fix it but it got messed up and his mom told the story about when Erik and his brother ate all the Christmas cookies and his dad told the story about when he ate a bunch of ice and was freezing cold that night 485 and they laughed at all the story’s but there was one very special to them the one where he made a wooden tree and painted it with his friends that was very special to them all it showed Erik that he could be giving by making stuff instead of buying stuff he sat down for dinner and ate all the wonderful things he had made with his mother and he felt very great full about his life and his family his friends he went to bed that night content in his heart because he did something good
 
A Lonely Winter Night​
Pietro sighed, it looked as though he was going to spend yet another winter evening alone. And he just knew that it was his own fault. After all, he was the one who told Beau off for running in his garden, and he definitely shouldn’t have sniped at Maple who was only trying to be nice by offering to babysit his pet squid while he was away. He never understood his neighbors, and to be honest he felt as though they didn’t understand him either.
Snow cascaded down outside of his sitting room window, heavy and utterly silent. Isabelle had predicted a deep snowfall this evening and it looked like she was right. The night was cold and dark, his porch light remained unlit. As much as he would like to have visitors over for supper, he knew that the chances of that happening were slim to none. Even Apollo had given him a dirty look at the Able’s Shop today.
Working stiffly, Pietro managed to go through the motions of heating up a frozen TV dinner before parking himself in front of the television to watch something mind numbing. Or so he thought. With a sharp DING-DONG his front door bell rang. Giving it a suspicious glance he slowly got up and walked over.
“Who is it?” he called.
A quiet voice answered him, “uhm, Mr. Pietro? It’s me, Beau.”
Beau? Why would he be calling this late in such a snow storm? Especially after what had happened this afternoon. Pietro quickly undid the latch and swung the door open. Indeed Beau was standing on his stoop, but he wasn’t alone. It seemed as if the whole town had shown up on his doorstep tonight. All of them bundled up to their necks in thick scarves and wooly hats.
“W-why, whatever can I help you all with?” Pietro asked, stepping aside so that everyone could come inside out of the cold.
Apollo spoke first, “well, actually, we thought we could help you. I’m a bit of a grump myself, I know what it’s like to want things a certain way. But, we’re all neighbors, and it’s the neighborly thing to do to not let you spend such a dreadful evening alone.” He held up a paper sack. “I made my famous macaroni salad if you’d like to share.”
Beau smiled, thrusting forward a tray with quite an ugly cake on it. “I wanted to ‘pologize for running in your plants so I made a carrot cake for you.”
Then Maple came up carrying jars of what looked like honey. “We all wanted to have a big dinner with you tonight. I hope you don’t mind!”
Pietro didn’t know what to say, everyone was taking turns placing the food they brought onto his kitchen table and before long there was a party in full swing. He sniffled and thanked everyone for being so kind to him. “I daresay I don’t deserve to have friends like you.” He mumbled quietly.
“Course you do, Mr. Pietro. You’re so cool and smart. You make everyone here look cool and smart too!” Beau was slicing into his carrot cake. “We’re glad you live here in town with us, it especially makes cold nights that much warmer.” Pietro found that he couldn’t agree more. His home and his heart were warm, just what he needed. Now he just had to hope that his nights would never be lonely again.
 
On a cold Winter’s day in Cutetown, three unlikely best friends were gathered in one of their homes. Molly, a duck with the sweetest personality, was hosting her friends Ankha, a sophisticated (and a bit snooty) cat, and Muffy, a loyal and caring if a bit rough around the edges, sheep. The three friends lamented about the cold and the snow while sipping Molly’s homemade hot cider.

Molly asked her friends if they had seen the pamphlets in Town Hall advertising Tom Nook’s Desert Island Getaway Package. Ankha stated that Isabelle and she had been chatting about how nice it would be to be on a warm beach. Muffy said she’d run into Mayor Val and they had joked about all the places sand could get into. Molly sat quietly listening to her friends. She then tentatively asked if either one was thinking of investing in the Getaway Package. Both Ankha and Muffy became quiet. Molly knew their answer.

Molly admitted that she too had been considering her options but her one sticking point was the thought of leaving the two of them. Ankha blurted out that she felt the same way and that she didn’t know if she would bear to be without her “dahlings”. Muffy said she could move to the island but she knew she wouldn’t be happy if her two “buds” weren’t there. Molly’s big brown eyes welled up as she said she knew she’d be much too lonely to ever enjoy island life without her friends.

The three were quietly pondering their situation when Muffy cleared her throat and said she had had an idea but wasn’t sure of how her friends would react. Ankha and Molly encouraged her to share what she was thinking. Muffy asked, “Well, what if we ALL invested in the Getaway Package and ALL moved together?” Molly & Ankha thought that was a splendid idea! The three decided that before they each uprooted their lives that they should get more information. Ankha volunteered to ask Tom Nook for more details and report back to her friends. The three parted ways feeling both excited and nervous.

The next day the friends met at Brewster’s in Cutetown to discuss what Ankha had learned. She shared that the island was named Amity and already had some residents. Molly pointed out that “amity” meant “friendship”. The three thought that was a good sign. Ankha explained that there were three residents. The first two residents of Amity were Flip, a monkey who was also an exercise enthusiast, and Hazel, a no nonsense but friendly squirrel. Ankha said the third resident was a human whom Tom Nook thought highly of. Mr. Nook said that this person was so friendly, helpful & hard working that The Nooklings, Flip, Hazel and himself had appointed this person the island’s Resident Representative. He explained the island already had many improvements and it was all due to the dedication of this one individual.

Molly said she was relieved the island wasn’t still totally “deserted” and Muffy said she liked that “this Rep person” was on top of things. Ankha said the person was a girl and that everyone called her by her last name, Brody. Both Molly & Muffy were curious as to what Brody’s first name was. Ankha’s beautiful eyes sparkled as she said, “Well, that’s the most amazing part of all of this. Brody’s first name… is Val.” When the three friends realized Resident Rep Brody had the same first name as their beloved Mayor they knew that Amity was in good hands and that they were meant to move there.

Muffy, being the most adventurous, said she’d move to Amity first to “get a feel for the joint”. Molly & Ankha thought this was a good idea because they knew Muffy wouldn’t mince words about whether she liked Amity or not. Knowing Molly would be lonesome being alone in Cutetown for a bit, Ankha suggested Molly be the second to relocate to Amity. Molly said she would feel braver knowing Muffy was waiting for her and that Ankha would be coming soon. This meant Ankha would be moving to Amity last. Molly & Muffy secretly knew that Ankha also wanted to be the final one to move so she’d have more time to pack as Ankha was a bit… fussy about her belongings. Plus Ankha could make a big entrance to Amity if she knew her friends would be there waiting to greet her.

The three friends each contacted Tom Nook to sign up for the Desert Island Getaway Package. They also each made sure to stop by Mayor Val’s to let her know they were moving. Mayor Val told each of them she’d miss them deeply and made them each promise to write. Mayor Val also let each of them know that if life on Amity wasn’t all they had hoped for that they’d always have a home in Cutetown.

Within a few weeks time all three friends had arrived on Amity. Resident Rep Brody had personally greeted each of them. Brody made sure to make them all feel so welcome and offered to help them with anything they might need while settling in. Brody gave them each a tour of Amity and a beautiful wreath as a “welcome” gift.

Molly, Muffy and Ankha were sitting on the beach together watching the gorgeous sunset. As the waves gently rolled in Molly smiled at her two best friends and said, “Amity really does mean friendship.”

I thought I should mention that Cutetown is the name of my main town in New Leaf. I really do have Molly, Muffy & Ankha living in both Cutetown and on my island, Amity. Thanks for reading!
 
Here is mine, based on starting my island recently during winter:

Advice from a snowboy

I wake; the light is filtering through the thin canvas of the tent. I can see my breath forming clouds above me as I pull my sleeping bag tighter around me. A desert island getaway package sounded so tropically enticing with swaying palms and postcard perfect beaches. Instead, I arrived in the grip of winter, snow covering the whole island and weighing heavily on my somewhat insufficient tent.

Heading out I pull my hat down tight over my ears. My feet crunch onto the soft snow and I survey my new home. It’s very basic, a few brightly coloured tents on an otherwise bleak landscape. I set out to explore, eyeing up the clifftops around us. It looks like there are flowers growing up there, specs of colour under towering pines but I can’t find a way up. I wonder if I can makeshift some form of ladder from the fallen branches off the trees but I’m not sure how to. Yet. I’ve got a feeling I’ll figure it out.

I idly kick at a ball of snow, as it grows, I start to roll it. At least building a snowman will warm me up I think to myself as I energetically throw myself into the task. One done, that will do for the body. It is almost as high as me. I start to roll a second pushing it through the soft snow, watching it grow in size. I roll it up to the body and heave it on, puffing with the exertion.

I stand back and stare at my snowman, feeling a sense of accomplishment and then fell back in surprise… the snowman was speaking. I looked around, was another villager playing tricks on me. I peered cautiously behind my snowman.

“I… I can’t believe it! You got everything right!” declared my snowman.

“I… I can’t believe I’m talking to a snowman!” I spluttered in shock.

“Talking to pure snowfolk perfection” corrected my snowman, looking as pleased as a snowman could possibly look.

“Erm… you’re welcome?” I ventured. I mean what is the etiquette when talking to a snowman you’ve built? Especially one who seems slightly big headed.

“Now just point me in the direction of the nearest snow museum and I’ll be on my way…” he continued.

“Erm, we are on a desert island. There isn’t a museum here. There is nothing. This was a huge mistake.” My emotions started to get the better of me and a salty tear drop rolled down cheek.

“DO YOU NOT KNOW HOW DANGEROUS THAT IS?” Bellowed my snowman.

He caused me to hesitate because as far as I was aware, crying wasn’t in any way dangerous.

“Salty warm tears will melt snow” he said a little kindlier, “You don’t want to spoil your perfect creation now do you?”

“I’m sorry, I’m just finding it overwhelming being here, on this island. I don’t know what to do, I don’t know where to start. It’s not what I was expecting.”

The snowman seemed to lean back and appraise me.

“Well, you have started. You got up, you explored, you built a snowman – and a perfect one at that. I’m going to give you some instructions on how to build a snow bed. You are going to catch snowflakes and make it. Every day you will explore, build, meet people. Soon through your work there will be a museum on this island, this place will grow from nothing into a thriving community of friends.”

I threw my arms around the snowman.

“Thank you I whispered, that was just what I needed to hear.”

I brushed the snow of my coat, waved goodbye and continued my exploration of the island, my new home, my new project. After all if I could build a perfect talking snowman on my first day, who knows what else I could achieve on this island.
 
We Built this Island on K.K. Bubblegum​


Not everyday you get the chance to tell a story that changes your life, a story so big that it can’t be held for long, so amazing that it will leave people in awe. Well at least it left me that way, don’t worry, I’m getting started, if you are ready, this is the story.

It’s been almost a year since this all began, and let me tell you, it was not easy, but like any story this one starts with someone looking for a new beginning, a fresh start. I took my chances, jumped into the opportunity and looked into new horizons. While I was taking that plane, I was nervous, well, excited, because I knew the destination was going to be perfect.

The wild unknown was waiting, a deserted island they called it, but for me, I knew it was going to be home. Tom was there with just a tent and big plans. I just wanted to settle in and relax, boy I was wrong. The votes came in and I was voted to be the resident representative, and just like that, I was ready to create something great, the best part was that I was not alone and together we started getting this island ready for more to join us.

It didn’t take long for new residents to arrive, the town was growing and everyone was happy, in the blink of an eye, we weren't a deserted island anymore, we became a thriving little town full of stories and happiness. This attracted shops and even a museum was established, can’t you believe we appeared on the map. This caught the attention of the famous K.K. Slider, he wanted to perform a concert on our island, we were so excited, we didn’t lose a second and started to get everything ready.

Seasons started to fly by and new characters started to arrive. Festivals, fireworks, egg hunting, to name a few, but with each festivity we grew closer and the island was getting better and better. Bridges and Stairs connected all the island, our plaza was the spot to be in, and there was not a day we didn’t have something new to do.

We kept going and going, and one day Isabelle gave us the best news, our island got the recognition of being 5-Stars, can you believe it, not even a year ago and now we are at the top, in that moment I thought to myself, I want this to stay forever. Sadly, life always comes with changes.

Some came, but some also left, the very first residents were no longer here, but know that they will always be a part of this island. “I want to explore the world”, “I want to train in another place”, “If i'm gonna be the biggest popstar in the world, I need to travel”, this were some of their reasons, they wanted to live their dreams, and who am I to stop them, after all I was living mine.

Just know that I will always remember every orange sunset, every purple night full of stars, and every blue winter day we had to spend together, and all those letters, I still cherish them. Friends like this will last for a lifetime. New friendships were made and I have to admit that change is not always bad, in the end I’m really happy for everything that happened last year.

While I’m writing this to you, I know you already knew this, because you lived it, and I’m sure that the future is great, and I really wish you could tell me about it, but I guess I will just have to live it. All I really want to know, is Vanille still as awesome as it is right now? 5 years will have passed as you are reading this, but dear future Ace, don’t ever forget that we have a responsibility here, and that this island needs us, we have to be on our A-game always.

I leave the future of Vanille to you, I will make every new day the best yet, and I hope you always do the same.

Always yours (because I am you),
Ace :)
 
A Not-So-Normal Toy Day
​
*DING, DONG, DING, DONG*

The loud clock had rung all over Laverre. Filbert came running out of his house, full of joy. "It's Toy Day, bucko!!" He yelled at his neighbors. "It's Toy Day!!" Filbert ran to Diana's house across town, as he knew that she had gotten him a present.

He was obviously the first one awake that morning. The skies were still somewhat dark, but he knew that Diana would open the door if he knocked hard enough. However, something stopped him along the way.

"Jingle? What happened to you?" Filbert questioned the black-nosed reindeer. Jingle was lying on the floor of the plaza, snoring. He was not wearing any of his typical clothes. Rather, he seemed to be wearing his pajamas! They were red and green, but that was not enough to convince Filbert that those were Jingle's Toy Day clothes. Filbert shook Jingle, hoping he would wake up. But no such luck. "The people of Laverre won't get their special toys if Jingle doesn't wake up, bucko!" Filbert looked around with his wide eyes. Still, nobody else was awake. Filbert decided to make a big decision.

"Bucko, these clothes are kinda big..." Filbert writhed in the outfit; he wasn't used to wearing a reindeer's clothes. Regardless, Filbert was ready to be Jingle for the day. By this time, a few of the other residents were awake. First was Molly.

"Happy Toy Day, Molly!" Filbert handed her the wrapped gift.

"Aw, thanks, quackidee!" Molly opened the present. It was what she had asked for from Santa: a new writing set. "How did you know?" Molly pondered. Filbert said nothing in response. He liked the idea of being Jingle. The only thing to worry about was making people happy. Filbert waved goodbye to Molly, and left. Next stop.

After an hour or so, Filbert was ready to go to the last house. It was Diana's. Filbert always looked up to Diana, as she had always cared about him more than the other residents. He was curious to see what Diana wanted from Santa.

"Happy Toy Day!" cheered Filbert for the 9th time. He handed her the present.

"Happy Toy Day, no doy!" Diana accepted the gift with pink wrapping paper. "You must've spent a lot of time wrapping this... it'd be a shame to rip into such a good job!" Regardless, she unwrapped the present. Inside was a small, silver box.

"What didya get?" Filbert asked. Diana didn't say anything yet, but she showed him the gift. There was a necklace inside. A sparkling, diamond necklace. "Well, that's suuuuper pretty, Diana!" At this point, Diana was teary eyed.

"Thank...you, Filbert. I simply cannot believe that you would know that I wanted this." Diana was in awe. It was something that she had wanted for many years. She put it around her neck. "It's astonishing..." she said. "Thank you so much." Diana kissed Filbert on the cheek.

"A huh...huh huh..." Filbert made his already pink cheeks red. "No problemo, bucko." he smiled, waved, and walked out the white door.

Filbert never forgot the day he got to be Jingle. The joy he brought to those around him truly changed his view on things. From that point forward, Filbert always made sure Jingle was ready early Toy Day morning.
 
The Little Fox
​
It was that time of year. The time of holiday cheer.

Pompom and Molly were strolling around different stores looking for Toy Day gifts. Apollo was shyly singing along to Toy Day carols. Everyone was happy—everyone, except one person.

From his run-down boat, a lonesome little fox peeked out his window to see that the holiday season was in full gear.

Redd sighed. “Nothing for me again this year. I've always gotten a kick in ripping people off. At this point, I have no idea how many cousins I even have."

Tears began to fall down his face.

"But… am I happy doing this? At a time like this, I'm all alone."

The next day, Colton had come to buy something from Redd.

“What can I do for you today, cousin?”

“Do you have a twinkling painting in stock today?” asked Colton.

“Sure I do! That will be 4980 bells for you, cousin. What’s it for? Trying to decorate your house?” asked Redd as he got the painting ready.

“It’s a Toy Day gift for Julian. I figured he’d like something like this with stars,” replied Colton.

A surge of loneliness filled Redd. “How sweet of you.”

That night, Redd thought deeply. “I want to be happy. But how do I get started?” He remembered an ad he saw around the island.

“Ask Jingle for anything. He’ll get you whatever you want, as long as you’re on the nice list.”

“That’s right! Once I’m on the nice list, I can ask Jingle for happiness.” He sat down, grabbed a pen and paper, and began writing.

"Dear Jingle,

It's Redd. What can I do to get on the nice list?"

The next morning, he found a letter on his desk. “This wasn’t here last night.” He took a closer look at it.

“Dear Redd,

It’s not hard to get on the nice list! Do a few good deeds and you’ll get there. How about you try spreading the holiday joy? You can be one of my official helpers.

Regards,
Jingle”

“That was fast. Well, I better get started.”

He looked around his boat for anything he could give to villagers. He found some interesting wares--a rotary phone, a cute bed, and a Nova light, among other things.

“Hmm…” Redd thought to himself. “Wouldn’t Julian like a Nova light?” He took the Nova light, wrapped it, and headed out of his boat.

On his way to look for Julian, he passed by a group of villagers having a snowball fight. “That looks like fun,” he thought. He arrived at Julian’s house and knocked on the door.

“Who is it?” Julian asked.

“It’s me, Redd.”

Julian felt a sense of confusion, but he opened the door anyway. “What is it?”

“I have a gift for you!” Redd said, with a bright smile on his face. “It’s from me. I thought you’d like it.”

“This isn’t a trick, is it?”

“Of course not! I’m one of Jingle’s official helpers, you know?”

Julian hesitantly took the gift and closed the door.

“That’s one good deed down!” said Redd.

“What’s someone like Redd doing as one of Jingle’s helpers? Did Jingle get scammed?” He opened the gift from Redd to see a Nova light. “Wow… this is really pretty. Redd really got this for me?” Julian smiled.

On his way back to his boat, Redd passed by Lloid who was gathering donations for a new bridge.

“Hi Redd. Care to donate any bells to fund our new bridge? If you can spare even a single bell, great!” said Lloid.

“I’m in a good mood today, so here you go!” Redd gave over 198,000 bells, with a grin on his face.

“Wow! This is enough to build our new bridge. Thanks Redd!”

“Redd, is that you?” said a voice from behind.

Redd turned around and saw that Isabelle was standing behind him. “Hey Izzy! Nice to see you on this fine morning.”

“What are you doing here?” Isabelle asked curiously.

“Redd here just paid off our new bridge!” Lloid replied.

“Wow! Really? That’s very sweet of you, Redd,” said Isabelle.

“It’s the least I could do!”

“Would you like to grab some coffee at Brewster’s with me, Redd?” asked Isabelle. “If you’re not busy, of course. It’ll be my treat.”

Redd contemplated whether he should return to his boat to open up his store for the day. “I’d love to, Isabelle.”

The two walked over to Brewster’s and ordered coffee. “Let me pay for the drinks,” Redd insisted.

“No! I said it would be my treat. This isn’t even enough to repay you for what you did back there.”

“It was no big deal!”

“So, what’s going on with you? You seem a little different today.”

“Me? Well, I’m one of Jingle’s official helpers, and I’m trying to spread the holiday cheer in his stead.”

“How cool! Let me know if you need anything. I’d be happy to help. Well, I’d better get going now. Resident Services needs me.”

“Of course! Thanks for this, by this way. It was really kind of you.”

“It was no big deal,” Isabelle said as she left, with a slight chuckle. Redd smiled and headed back to his boat.

“Let’s see… what can I do?” He began examining the prices of his goods. He then grabbed a red marker and drew a strike through all of his prices. “Everything will be half off for the holidays!”

At the end of the day, Redd sat down and wrote another letter to Jingle.

“Dear Jingle,

It’s Redd again. Am I on the nice list yet?”

The next morning, Redd checked his desk. There was no letter. “Maybe he’s busy. Toy Day is in just a few days, after all.”

All of a sudden, Redd heard a knock on the door of his boat. “It’s me, Isabelle!”

Redd hurried to open the door to greet her. “Hey, Izzy! What are you doing here?”

“The bridge that you paid for yesterday was completed overnight! We’d love to have you at the ceremony.”

“Y-you would?” Redd asked shockingly. “Hold on, let me get ready first!”

“Of course!” Isabelle replied. The two headed over to the new bridge.

“Welcome to our dedication ceremony honoring our island’s brand-new bridge! We’d like to give a special shout-out to Redd for making this bridge possible,” said Tom Nook.

“Yay Redd!”

“Redd’s the best!”

“That’s it for our ceremony. We’d like to thank everyone who came today.” The group of villagers dispersed, leaving just Redd and Isabelle behind.

“What’s wrong, Redd?” Isabelle asked.

“I feel… weird.”

“Oh no! Should I get you medicine from Nook’s?”

“No need! I’ll just head back to my boat for now.”

Redd returned to his boat and checked again for a letter. Nothing.

“Why is it taking so long? I still have that weird feeling. Maybe I should take a nap…”

The little fox dozed off. He was awakened by a knock on the door hours later.

“Redd, it’s me again! Are you in there?” asked a voice belonging to Isabelle.

Redd got up to open the door. “What is it?”

“Sorry to disturb you! The islanders are having a small get-together in front of Resident Services. Would you be interested in coming? K.K. Slider will be there!”

“I’d love to come! Let’s go,” Redd answered enthusiastically. He had never seen K.K. Slider live before because he never had anyone to go with.

When they arrived, Pompom, Molly, Apollo, Colton, and Julian were there, all jamming to K.K. Slider’s live performance. Isabelle and Redd joined them.

“I like this song,” Redd remarked.

“This? It’s K.K. House! I love it too,” Isabelle replied. “By the way, are you feeling any better?”

“I still have that weird feeling from earlier, and it’s only growing. It started after that ceremony earlier today.”

“I think I know what that feeling is.”

“You do?” Redd wondered.

“You must be happy!” Isabelle exclaimed.

Redd was taken aback. “No… that couldn’t be it.”

“Whatever,” Isabelle chuckled. “Let’s just enjoy this performance.”

When Redd went back to his boat after the performance, he was surprised to find someone waiting in front of his boat. As he got closer, he saw a black nose and antlers. “It must be Jingle,” he thought.

“Jingle, is that you?”

“Oh yes, Redd! Sorry that I wasn’t able to reply to your letter. I’ve been so busy with Toy Day quickly approaching. Anyway, I came to thank you in person for the high levels of holiday joy coming from this island. I checked the nice list, and you’re on it! Great job! What would you like to ask for?”

Redd thought long and hard. He had been meaning to ask for happiness once he got on Jingle’s nice list. He suddenly remembered what Isabelle said during K.K.’s performance.

“Am I… happy?” he thought to himself. “Is that really what this weird, new feeling is? So, what am I supposed to ask for now?”

After giving it some thought, he made up his mind. “I would like to ask for a nice gift for Isabelle. Something that she’d really love.”

“Isabelle? Let me think.” Jingle reached into his sack of presents and pulled out a wrapped box. “This will be perfect for her.”

“Thank you Jingle! For everything.”

“No need to thank me! Happy holidays, Redd.”

As the little fox fell asleep that night, he whispered softly to himself, “I am happy.”

After a few long days passed by, Toy Day was finally here. That evening, he left to meet Isabelle by Resident Services after work, bringing along his present for her.

“Isabelle!” Redd called out when he saw her. “Happy Toy Day!”

“Happy Toy Day, Redd!”

He handed her the gift he’d asked Jingle for.

“Wow, thanks Redd!” Isabelle smiled brightly. “Here, I have something for you too.”

“F-for me?”

“Of course, Redd!” Isabelle said.

“But why?”

“The holidays don’t just have to be about giving. Receiving is also part of it! Even though it isn’t much, I hope you like it.” A short silence ensued. “Although I do like gifts, my favorite part about the holidays is spending the season with friends and family.”

“But I don’t have any family…”

“Of course you do! Right, cousin?” Isabelle joked.

The two smiled at each other.

“Hey, Redd?”

“Yeah?”

POW! When he turned to look at her, he was hit in the face with a snowball. He was reminded of the group of villagers he had seen a few days ago having a snowball fight, when he was all alone. He rolled up a small ball of snow and threw it at Isabelle. The two spent the rest of the night playing in the snow.

The lonesome little fox was lonesome no more.
 
Building Bertha’s House (In a Day) - approx. 1,956 words.

Building_Berthas_House_Cover_Photo_GIF_50.gif

In life—especially in toe-chilling weather as this—Bertha preferred to read a book in bed, her plush pink blanket tucked firmly over and under her feet.

But she knew the satisfaction of bundling up only came in the wake of the cold.

Though she didn’t like it, the hippo needed the freezing tingle in her two front teeth and the near-frostbite in her fingertips as she held the flier out. She needed to put herself out there if it meant moving on in life like her sisters before her.

Against the snow, Bertha blinked blearily at the flier and turned back at the bright yellow paint of DAL Airport. The paper creased and grew damp in her grasp; in a panic, Bertha ducked under a cherry tree. Now, she could clearly see the advert she’d hastily printed out with the airport’s printer:

Seeking: Protégé to pass on this old wolf’s research. Must be fresh out of school and have a genuine interest in biology. Serious offers only. Ask for “Dobie” at Seven Star Beach Resort in Kame.

Bertha gulped, her eyes falling on Dobie’s portrait. Though the wolf didn’t have teeth, there was a grave look in his eyes. Bertha knew she was going to screw up somehow.

Just past the tree was an empty plot—her plot, Tom Nook told her. Bertha felt like the tarp blowing in the wind over the wood planks that would make up her house.

Bertha found herself stumbling on her way to the beach resort. With a loud yell, she slipped and just barely caught herself, her fingers digging into the beach resort kiosk.

“Oh dear!” Someone laughed above Bertha. “Someone needs to stop by the Able Sisters for some très magnifique boots. They have cute pink ones that’d match your adorable coat perfectly!”

A bright orange fox leaned at her place behind the kiosk. “Welcome to Kame, stranger!” She tilted her sunglasses (though there was no sun) up into her bangs.

Bertha mumbled under her breath but quickly stood up straight. “Sorry, m’am. Do you work here? I—”

“I run the resort! Can’t ya tell?” There was a glimmer in the fox’s eye as she adjusted her sunglasses some more. “What’s your name, new girl? I’m—”

“Bertha,” the hippo cut in, tears burning at the back of her eyes. “Please lead me to Dobie.”

“Cheer up! You’ll fit in well here.”

Doubt that one, Bertha wanted to say.

“I'm Audie! It’s always scary moving somewhere new,” the fox said. “But no worries! You’ll be in great paws. Dobie told me about you.”

“Did he?”

“He’s a permanent resident in our resort, actually,” Audie continued. “A retiree and all. He’s a cute old man, though he’s way cranky and definitely doesn’t like me—”

“Directions, please!” Bertha cupped her mouth and glanced down at the flier. She would rather look at Dobie’s awkward portrait if it meant avoiding Audie’s scrutiny, but the fox was talking again.

“To the right!” Audie pointed to a row of two houses. “And up ahead,” she said, turning now to a fancy bungalow nestled on top of a waterfall, “is where you’ll be ‘til your house’s built. Tom’s orders.”

“Great.” Bertha turned her back on Audie as she called happily after her.

“Good luck!”

***​

It took Dobie ages to open the door after she’d knocked a few times. Bertha wanted to assure him through the cracks to take his time—but Audie, waving so eagerly in the distance, made her want to cry. It didn’t help that, from all of Bertha’s knocking, a mound of snow fell from Dobie’s roof and caught her by the tail.

But finally, the door opened. Warm light fell on Bertha’s face, but she stood in the cold of the day and the shadow of the wolf. Dobie smiled at her, and for a moment Bertha was tempted to forget her unsease.

“‘Big’ Bertha, is it?” Dobie laughed, showing the gums of his toothless maw. “A pleasure to finally meet you, ohmmm. Come in.”

“That’s, uh, what my eldest sister used to call me,” Bertha stammered as she squeezed past Dobie. “Thank you for that. It’s, um, a pleasant memory, and—”

“Don’t thank me.” Dobie tutted, shutting the door behind her. “We haven’t started yet.”

“Um. Yes, sir.” Bertha sniffled and stood stiffly at attention while Dobie raised a brow at her.

“Your coat?”

“Oh.” Bertha unbuttoned her pink coat and forced it over a hook beside the desk she assumed would be their workspace. “Of course. I’m so sorry…” As she smoothed her coat down, her hat fell from the top of the stand and onto the desk. She let out a little peep.

“Never mind that,” Dobie said, his voice tart as he snatched the hat back up. “Your résumé stated that you hope to go on to criminology…?”

“No,” Bertha said, her hands behind her back. “I want to be a professor at the college I graduated from, sir.”

“Oh, right.” Dobie scoffed, thumbing through pages. “I’m thinking of another candidate. My brain’s a mite fuzzy, but still sharp around the edges. Good,” he murmured. He found and smoothed out Bertha’s résumé. “On an uneventful island as Kame, we need not focus on such things. You have a noble and decidedly more useful goal, Bertha.”

“Oh.” Bertha blinked. “That’s… good.”

“Anyways.” Dobie cleared his throat. “I was a professor, myself. I’m happy to see a youngin’ eager to learn from her elder and pass all she knows onto her juniors. I hope the cycle of learning continues with you, my dear.”

“Yes, sir,” Bertha said. She glanced out the window and saw a familiar fox tending to the neighboring bungalow, straightening a wreath on its door. “Do you like Audie?”

Dobie blinked as he extracted a book from his shelf. “She’s young and naïve... Why?”

“Um.” Bertha tugged on the ribbon on her collar. Dobie continued to glare at her, so she stumbled over her words. “She said you were cranky and didn’t like her.”

There was a hint of a snarl on Dobie’s face.

“It’s not like that,” Bertha stammered. “She likes you! I was just wondering if—”

“Bertha,” Dobie said, so slowly, he might have thought she was stupid. “You just arrived, correct?”

“Correct.”

“Why don’t you come back tomorrow? I see your mind’s wandering. Like old Dobie’s!” He laughed, though a chill went down Bertha’s spine. “Explore Kame in the meantime.”

Bertha’s eyes widened. She stood at attention with her mouth agape even as Dobie handed her coat and hat to her. “Did I do something wrong, sir?”

“You still have a lot to learn,” he said, gesturing towards the door. “I can’t teach you anything if you’re not present. Sounds like a breath of air would do you good.” He smiled, though his eyes didn’t seem to smile. “Come back tomorrow.”

***​

Bertha rubbed at her face; her tears stung on her cheeks and threatened to freeze in place. She didn’t want to be like the icicles hanging from Dobie’s roof or even the now-trampled snow that fell from it. But her mentor had left her hanging...

Why wouldn’t Dobie explain to her what was going on? Wasn’t this the point of Bertha flying to Kame? So she could learn in a new environment, like her sisters before her?

The back of Bertha’s legs were chilled as she sat on the cold metal of the bench, but she didn’t care.

“Bertha!”

Across from the out-of-order beach resort fountain, Audie stood with a worried look on her face. She waved to Bertha and, after setting her box of wreaths to the side, hurried over. But just before she made it to her, Audie nearly slipped.

Bertha laughed through her tears. Where were those “très magnifique boots” when they needed them?

“What’s wrong?” Audie sat down and wrapped an arm around her shoulders. “What did Dobie do this time?”

“Huh?”

Audie nodded to Bertha, focused on her in a way that both frightened her, yet touched her.

Bertha sighed. “He seemed happy to take me on as a student, but I mentioned you, and…” She wiped her eyes on her sleeve.

Audie chuckled. “Dobie must still be mad at me for this, that, or another. I put up a wooden sign ‘cause Shari wanted to advertise her secondhand-from-Leif’s flower business. It was on Dobie’s lawn, I guess.” Her chuckle turned into a howl. “It was hilarious, ‘cause Walt came up to me and wanted to advertise something, too. Get this…” Audie prodded Bertha. “He wants the poster in the same spot! Knowing Dobie will hate it!”

Bertha nodded. She had no idea who “Walt” or “Shari” were, but Audie seemed happy to talk about them as if Bertha knew them. It made her feel somewhat included.

“And did you know? Dobie and Walt, though they’re next door neighbors, are constantly fighting.” Audie wheezed and wiped a tear out of her eye. She looked to Bertha and frowned a little. “Your tears better be of laughter, too!”

Bertha smiled. “I wish. But…” She sighed, wiping her eyes again. “Dobie seems so stern. I’m not sure if I can work in that environment.”

“You won’t know until you try again,” Audie said, her voice taking on an unexpectedly softer tone.

“I know. But this is too much, you know?” Bertha sniffled. “And I’m so cold.”

Audie rubbed Bertha’s shoulders. “Why don’t we get some hot cocoa going?”

Bertha couldn’t help but smile a little as Audie took her by the hand, raving about how good Kame’s hot cocoa was.

***​

Audie and Bertha were sitting at the kitchen island in Bertha’s bungalow, their hands around their steaming mugs as Audie talked about the history of Seven Star Beach Resort and how she came to be its manager.

Bertha was happy that the pain in her fingers wasn’t from the cold, but the reassuring warmth of the mug. The steam of the hot cocoa on Bertha’s face could have been the “fresh air” Dobie was talking about, but Bertha wasn’t sure.

Audie was talking about the construction of the bungalow when Bertha mused aloud. “Nook told me the construction of my house will be finished tomorrow. Can you believe that?”

“Yep!” Audie chirped. “Kame wasn’t built overnight, sure, but each house? All in a day’s work with enough willpower.” She licked up a marshmallow in her cocoa.

“Just a day? Seems a little fast.”

“Progress may seem fast sometimes,” Audie was saying as she downed her cup. “But I say ride the wave!”

Bertha stared down at her mug. “Dobie wants to take it fast, yet slow at the same time. He wants me to get into it, yet wants me to take a day off to explore the “uneventful” Kame. I don’t understand.”

“True,” Audie said. “But didn’t he say to do it in a day? Maybe he wants you to ride today’s wave and see where it takes you tomorrow?”

“Maybe.” Bertha smiled. “Maybe, in his weird way, he wants me to learn from another naïve girl trying to make her way in Kame.”

Audie sputtered. “Did you call me ‘naïve’?”

“Dobie did,” Bertha said, smirking a little. “Looks like I’m learning from him already!”

Audie shoved her playfully. Bertha’s mug clinked against Audie’s as they laughed; Bertha believed they were toasting to her arrival in Kame.

More than that, Bertha wanted to toast to the wealth of experience that was to come. Like the bitter winter air, Dobie’s words would push her out of her comfort zone and into the wilds of Kame. Her new house would be ready tomorrow, and by then, Bertha would start leaving her own mark on Kame—whether she was ready or not.
 
Would You Like Cocoa With That?​

"71? It feels more like 61," Molly muttered as she checked the thermostat, wiping her cold, flour coated feathers across the festive themed apron her mother had sent her for Christmas. Although often referred to as "tacky" by certain, snooty friends, Molly adored the gift. The color of the apron was a distinct milk-bone red, like the biscuits frequently snacked on by her neighbor, Bones. It was denim in texture, with an assortment of snowflakes, snowballs, and a cast of snowmen stamped throughout. Her favorite character, of course, was a snow-duckling with two potato chips forming its beak and little polka-dotted mittens growing straight from it's cold, spherical body. Molly thought about building her own snow-duckling, "What's beneath the mittens? Little wings?" Not the most exciting conclusion, she decided that the mittens were probably held up by two, twig-like sticks. Her fluffy tail waved as she spun toward the oven, which she set decisively to 350°.

Glancing at the clock, she noted the hour. It was the morning of December 31st, and there was a considerable chunk of time between now and Felicity's New Years Eve party. Humming along as K.K. Ballad blasted from the yellow boombox atop her dresser, she lined a pan with parchment paper, before combining the wet and dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon, she was careful not to over-mix the batter, as she knew such actions could result in flat, lifeless cookies. She deposited the spoon into her pocket and began rummaging through the drawers below, where she retrieved a combination of sugary toppings. She lowered her beak and at once, the humming ceased. She observed the selection that sat deliciously glistening before her cocoa-colored eyes.

Chocolate chips of all sizes and flavors (white chocolate, peanut butter, creamy milk, and dark chocolate...), gumdrops, rainbow sprinkles, chocolate jimmies, gummy bears (gummy birds and worms, too!), vanilla, pastel, and chocolate nonpareils, M&M's, marshmallows, shredded coconut, crushed walnuts, Oreos, and candy-cane...

Molly knew one thing. Tough decisions would have to be made. "Chocolate nonpareils are Mint's favorite topping", she considered, "but Sherb's least favorite." Crushed candycane, favored by all, was excessively festive and out of season. There was no way that a Gummy-anything would stick, and gumdrops just didn't seem to belong in the cozy assortment that is the chocolate-chip cookie. She wasn't a fan of marshmallow, herself, and she knew Cyd wasn't keen to it, either. Felicity and Ruby hated nuts.

"Oh well," she shrugged, as she poured the milk chocolate chips into the batter. Perhaps, it was best to avoid uncertainties. Retrieving the wooden spoon from her apron, she stirred in a wingful of colorful-shelled chocolate candies, and set aside a mixture of rainbow sprinkles and chocolate jimmies to add later, while the cookies cooled. She knew that if she waited, the sprinkles would melt just enough to be warm and gooey, while holding enough shape to appear decorative. Molly grabbed wingfuls of cookie dough, and while still thinking about the snowmen on her apron, she formed perfect dough balls of uniform sizing. She wondered if Snowboy would be proud.

Suddenly, she heard a beep. The oven was up to temperature, and Molly was ready to bake.
 
Wintertime Sadness ​

It wasn’t Del’s first winter. It wasn’t his twentieth, thirtieth, or even fortieth. In his lifetime, the alligator endured fifty-four winters. This year was to be his fifty-fifth. Even after all these years, it didn’t get any easier.

On one chilly, windy afternoon, the alligator went on his usual walk around the plaza. The brisk, cold air made Del shiver and he pulled the collar of his peacoat closer to his neck. As he made his round, he stopped to watch the residents play in the snow. Doc was busy making a snow angel, while the island’s resident jocks, Tybalt and Rod, were engaged in a heated snowball fight. Raymond and Jacques were sizing up their designer winter hats while Piper sat nearby, chatting nonstop to a dozing Eunice.

Del envied them. They just looked so happy. Even on a day as cold and miserable as today, they had the energy to run around and smile. All the island trees were bare, the grass was dead, and the sky brought down a flurry of freezing snowflakes that loved to cling on to Del’s scales like icy fleas, making every joint in his body ache. There was nothing happy about winter and he grew more and more irritated as he watched the festivities.

The crunch of footsteps approached from behind him. A voice, smooth and smoky like an aged whisky, pulled Del out of his brooding.

“Hello darling. Out for your daily walk? It’s such a pleasant day today, isn’t it?”

Del turned around to see Tiffany the rabbit with a smile on her face. With a parasol in her gloved paw, Tiffany looked as elegant as always, dressed to the nines in a faux-fur coat and her signature red lipstick. She always looked like she was about to go to a fancy gala, even when it was just a quick stop to Nook’s Cranny. A lady no matter the occasion. Del thought Tiffany’s formalities were ridiculous, but over the past months that they’ve lived as neighbors on the island, her little quirks had begun to grow on him.

But today wasn’t a good day for Del and he didn’t have any patience left, even for a friend. Tiffany’s smile faltered when her eyes fell on her friend’s sour scowl. “Is something the matter?”

Del huffed. “Nothing’s wrong.”

Tiffany tilted her head, her kohled eyes studying his face. “Are you sure? You look a little…”

“I’m fine!” Del snapped, baring his teeth. “Quit pestering me! Just leave me alone!”

Tiffany jumped back, a paw at her chest. “Goodness! I just wanted to know if you were okay! I’m concerned about you, that’s all.”

Del said nothing and continued to scowl, turning away and walking through the slush to his house.

Tiffany sighed as she watched him go. “What has gotten into him?”

Tybalt bounded beside her, Rod riding piggyback. They both were covered in snow.

“Don’t worry about him Tiff!” said Tybalt through icy whiskers. “He’s always a grump!”

“Yeah!” squeaked Rod in agreement. “He’s cranky ‘cause he’s old!”

“Boys, that isn’t polite.” The rabbit crossed her arms as she thought. “But I will get to the bottom of this. I can’t stand to see my friend in such distress.”

That evening, Del was huddled on an old armchair, swaddled in layers of blankets like an onion. The heater rattled nosily as he buried his snout in a worn, dog-eared adventure novel. The book was almost as old as he was and it was one of the few possessions that he carried with him no matter where he went. He read it so many times that he knew the words by heart. It had helped him through many dark nights, but on this winter night, the familiar story of the swashbuckling hero that he loved so dearly rang hollow. He couldn’t concentrate, no matter how much his eyes scanned over the pages.

He closed the book, placed it beside him, and sunk deeper into the chair. The wind outside shook the windows and howled through the cracks in the tiny house. Del wished he could hibernate through the winter. He wanted to leave this season of ice and snow and death far behind him. Why did an island this far south even have a winter season? Where did that island paradise that Nook promised him disappear to?

Suddenly he heard a knock at the door. He didn’t want to leave the warmth of his blanket hideaway and was about to tell them to go away, but then he heard a voice through the blowing frost.

“It’s Tiffany darling. Please do let me in.”

For a moment, Del’s eyes softened. He couldn’t believe his friend braved a blizzard to check up on him. But then again, Tiffany was always one for dramatic gestures.

He peeled himself out of his blankets and stomped to the door. Opening the door, he was greeted by a smile that lit up the darkness.

“Del!” Tiffany exclaimed, giving the taller alligator a hug. “It’s so good to see you! May I come in? It’s freezing out here!”

“It’s good to see you too.” Always a little awkward with affection, Del hugged her back, ever so lightly as to not crush his more delicate friend. “Yeah, no kiddin’. Come on in.” Tiffany followed Del into his house, her boots crunching with ice.

The little rabbit took off her boots near the door and placed her cloak on one of Del’s utility racks. The reptile loved to tinker with his various tools and metal bits and bobs. Tiffany had to take great care not to step on any of the cogs and circuits that littered the floor. Was his house this messy the last time she visited?

Tiffany placed a basket on his iron table, making a loud clang. “I brought some goodies for you.”

Del turned around, his face scrunching into a frown. “You didn’t have to Tiffany. Like I told you today, I’m doin’ okay.”

The rabbit shook her head. “No, I absolutely insist! You know that I don’t like cooking, but I actually made something for the occasion! I know chili is your favorite so-“

“What occasion Tiffany?” Del folded his scaly arms across his chest. “Are you here to just to nose around? Gather some intel so you can gossip with the other villagers?”

It was Tiffany’s turn to frown. “Heavens no! I thought you knew me better than a gossip! I care for you darling. I want to know what’s going on with you. You’ve been crankier than usual and I want to understand you better so I can help!”

Del growled under his breath. She was right. He did know her better than that. He knew Tiffany was being sincere.

“Fine.” Del retreated to his blanket fort, huddling back into his armchair. “But don’t expect much from me.”

Tiffany laughed as she pulled two thermoses from the basket. “Oh, don’t worry. You and I both know I can talk for the both of us!”

She handed him the thermos. He thanked her. It smelled of coffee, black. No sugar, no milk. Just how he liked it.

Tiffany perched in a chair across from him, legs crossed as she took a drink from her bedazzled thermos. “Del, darling, please tell me what’s troubling you. I know this winter in particular has been harsh. Is it the weather that’s been bothering you?”

“Who likes winter anyways,” replied Del as he glanced at the growing icicles outside. “It’s cold. It’s ugly. It’s too darn quiet all the time. I hate it.”

“Well! That’s a first. I never thought you’d complain about something being too quiet! But winter doesn’t last forever! Spring will be here before you know it!”

Del looked back at his friend. The creases around his eyes betrayed his weariness.

“When you’re in the thick of it, like we are now, winter feels like it’ll never end. Every day feels the same.”

Del’s baritone voice wavered as he continued. “You know, you get to be my age and you’re bound to have some kind of past. And when I watch the snow fall outta the sky, it just stirs up some bad memories I’ve been carrying around.”

“That’s part of the reason why I came here, you know? I wanted to leave all of that behind me. But then winter comes …and…”

Tears began to well up in the old alligator’s eyes. He cursed as he wiped them away, embarrassed. “Gosh darn it! I’m sorry Tiffany I just-“

The sound of a chair scrapped across the floor, followed by a gentle but firm embrace. When Del opened his eyes, his gaze met Tiffany’s. She radiated so much kindness and serenity, that he felt almost shy to be in her presence.

Tiffany then took off one of her evening gloves and leaned close to wipe away his tears.

“Hush now darling. No need to apologize. I understand you completely. I’ll be here for you, through this winter and all winters to come. And this island community supports you too! Believe it or not, we all do adore you, even if the boys are a little coarse at times.”

“I’m not an easy friend to have Tiffany,” replied Del. “I reckon I have a lot of bad days ahead of me.”

The rabbit gave him a wink. “Ha! Who said I like it easy?” She placed her dainty paws in his claws. “If I make your days even a little brighter, it’ll be worth all the effort. And before you know it, the snow will have melted and from out of the doom and gloom comes fabulous Spring! We can plan a flower garden, maybe have a nice picnic to celebrate.”

Del gave a toothy smile in return. For the first time in this entire winter he felt a spark of hope. The weather outside was grey and freezing but in his tiny house, there was a glow, a promise of renewal and of wonderful things yet to come. And he hoped that this silly, bold, and wonderful rabbit would be a part of his life in winter and in all the other seasons that followed.

“That’ll be real nice,” replied Del. “I’ll be looking forward to it.”

That feeling of shyness overcame him again as he fiddled with a blanket. For all his gumption, grit, and cankerous ways, Del had the hardest time spitting out the words that left him most vulnerable.

“Tiffany…I know it’s late and all but…” His eyes met hers again. He could see her eyes crinkle in delight as she anticipated his words. “Would you like to stay a little longer?”

She beamed at him, throwing her arms around his neck. “Oh darling, I thought you’d never ask! Of course I’ll stay!”

Del was thankful she couldn’t see the blush on his cheeks. After that night, winter was a lot more tolerable for the both of them.
 
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