For Your Journal: Writing Prompt

Do you keep a journal – or wish you could get one started? Literary Mama wants to help.

Three times a month, I’ll post a writing prompt. Open a notebook and write for 10 minutes. Don’t worry about grammar or punctuation – just write. Then let the writing simmer and your mind wander for awhile.

And who knows? Maybe you’ll discover a character for your next short story or a theme for a narrative essay. Or maybe you’ll use the idea to create a special holiday card or photo album for someone in your family. However you decide to use your journal entry, I know you’ll enjoy re-reading it months–and years–down the road.
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“Mom, you wouldn’t say no if I wanted to give you a Christmas present early, would you?” My son has just returned from an evening at the roller-skating rink and is hiding something behind his back.

“Oh, I suppose not…” I let my response trail off. Christmas is still two weeks away, but my eleven-year-old is so eager he can’t stand still. Remembering the rink’s selection of game-token prizes, I prepare myself for something plastic and gaudy.

“Good. Here. Merry Christmas!” The box he proudly hands me holds a five-inch resin Santa figurine, a “Made in China” sticker on its underside.

“Do you like it? It cost almost 100 tickets, but Jesse gave me some of his. I had to play the fat lady game five times. You should’ve seen me!” He stops to take a breath and waits for my response.

Though the figurine isn’t one I’d purchase for myself, there’s an angelic sweetness to it, and I tell him his gift is wonderful, a perfect addition to my nightstand.

“But you didn’t need to spend all your money on me,” I add, acknowledging the amount of time and money he spent at the game machines.

“Oh, that’s okay. I wanted to. I know how much you like Santas.” He throws himself into my arms, the excitement of his evening and its secret coming to an end.

Journal Entry: How do you choose gifts for those you love? Do you make lists? Do you window and catalog shop? Is it a hassle, or is it exciting? Then, describe a time you found the perfect gift and presented it. Note the recipient’s response when he/she unwrapped it.