Julia’s 100-Word Challenge for Grownups has reached its 162nd week as we begin 2015. Her prompt this week for the story is the following phrase:
“… as I put the decorations away, I …”
Check out her site and get the simple rules for participating in the challenge.
My story is below:
THE SECRET GIFT
My saddest Christmas ever. Jobless now; no money for food or rent; no family to help. I’d cried myself bleary-eyed for days. Government assistance was unthinkable. As I put Grandmother’s decorations away, I thought of how much I missed her – courageous woman, widowed, raising six children on her meager seamstress income. I missed her sorely and wished I weren’t such a failure in comparison.
The tiny envelope bearing my name was taped inside the bottom of an ornament box. I’d never noticed it before. It held a diamond necklace and a note from Grandmother: “I prayed you’d discover this when you need it most. It’s worth $25,000. Use it wisely. Merry Christmas.”
~~~
The Happy Wordcrafter 
This was a lovely story Sandra. It gives another dimension to Grandmother. Well done . Michael
Oooops, I think I called you Tommy in my comment on your ‘About’ page. I didn’t realize that your name was Michael. Sorry about that, but I’ll get it right next time. Thanks for taking the time to read and comment on my story. I haven’t really had time to do these challenges for quite a few weeks, and it was fun getting back into the groove.
Another great tale!
The delight in Grandmother putting the necklace in the box and the delight in finding it, is precious. Enjoyed your story.
So perfect, it gave me a huge smile thank you !
If something I write can give someone a huge smile, that makes me very happy. Thank you, Gilly, for letting me know.
Wonderful story with a hopeful end, nicely done. 🙂
From sadness to JOY. What a lovely grandmother. Heartwarming story. ❤