The Baby-Sitters Club belongs to Ann M. Martin

I was doing homework in my room. I had to make up ideas for a story my writing short takes is doing. We can make any characters up; even for fiction or non-fiction. I decided to do it on my life including my family, friends, and their family members. So, I'm doing characters based on ourselves.

I'm Mary Anne Spier I'm 14. I just started ninth grade at Stoneybrook High School. I live here in Stoneybrook, Connecticut all my life. I live with my father and stepfamily. See, my mother passed on when I was just a little girl. I never knew her. Dad and I lived on Bradford Court until recently.

I made another friend back in seventh grade. Her name is Dawn Schafer. She had just moved here from California with her mom and brother, Jeff after a divorce. Here's a good part: her mom, Sharon and Dad grew up together here… and they used to date during high school! They ended seeing each other again-even after Jeff moved back to California because he missed his father, hometown, and friends a lot-and several months later, they decided to get married. So, now Dawn and I are more than just friends, we're stepsisters. That's how Dad, my cat; Tigger, and I ended up living with the girls on Burnt Hill Road, which wasn't too far from Bradford Court.

Only it was very hard for me because my first best friend, Kristy Thomas and I grew up next door together across the street from Claudia Kishi's. We're the four of seven members of Baby-Sitters Club, which I'll tell you about later when I add them in each chapter.

"Can you please help me with dinner?" asked Dawn.

"We're having Chinese, remember? So, you can set the set table. I'm almost finished with my homework. It's due tomorrow," I replied.

"Okay," said Dawn as she went back down to set the table.

We take turns to set the table when we have either Chinese or Pizza delivery. Sharon was working late tonight, which was why we were having Chinese for supper. I had just finished homework when Dad brought it home. That was when I came down.

After dinner, my stomach was starting to hurt a bit, so I had TUMS to make it feel better.

The next day, at school, the principal announced it was time to get to Short Takes. Mine was writing class like I already mentioned. I only had Kristy and Kayla in that class, which I'm glad about. Plus I have Cokie Mason, who's very immature and I can't stand her.

In Writing, only four-counting me and Kristy-out of thirteen passed in their ideas and summaries. Many of them are almost done and would finish it during class.

"I'll give you a hand-out about this class when I give you back your homework, you make it up a title and start the story on the computer," announced my teacher, Mr. Lionel Handyman after he introduced himself to us. "The first, second, and third place winners will be published along with an interview."

That's my problem: I'm very shy and get nervous easily. Plus I get stage freights.

"Do all three winners have to be interviewed?" asked a girl.

"Yes," replied Mr. Handyman.

I groaned softly at that. I'm also too shy to tell him about that problem. Maybe Kristy and Kayla would be with me if she gets those slots, too. My other friends would know what to do. We looked over the hand-outs.

After lunch, Mr. Handyman gave us back the work including the ones who finished just before lunchtime. The highest students were me, Kayla, and Kristy. We all had an A+.

"You all may start it on the computer now," said the teacher. "You may talk as long as you whisper so the others can work."

That's what we did.

"If I do get interviewed, I hope I'd do fine," I said in a low voice. "I'd tell him about my problem, but I can't."

"Why not?" asked Kristy.

"I just can't," I responded.

It's an odd fact that I'm shy and quiet since I have a boyfriend, Logan Bruno. He's from Kentucky with his folks and two younger siblings, Kerry and Hunter. We met when we started eighth grade.

My choice for a title is The Life of Baby-Sitters Club Members.

"I can gather facts and use some pictures of each member for each chapter. I have our pictures, but I'd need to figure it out to put it through the computer," I said. "Unless we can take a group picture with my digital camera; I have a plug that can be saved onto the computer."

"That's a great idea," whispered Kristy. "Mine is about Kristy's Krushers."

"That's another good title, too," I said.

"I bet Cokie decides to do a story about herself and Logan," whispered Kristy as we tried not to giggle.

"I'll also add our family members in the Baby-Sitter Club member chapter," I told her the plan and the idea for the group picture.

"Great, I'll help you out with that picture when we're ready," said Kristy.

"And one more thing: I don't know if I'd feel comfortable to add about my secret, like about Dad used to be strict with me long time ago," I whispered to Kristy.

"It's up to you," she whispered back.

"I'll do the Spiers in a blank page and add stuff about me in one chapter and Dad in another chapter," I said. "I can do it that way when I do the others."

"Very good thinking," commented Kristy. "If you know some facts about your mom, you can add her."

"I was planning to do so when I start Dad's chapter," I told her. "I'm adding it at the time they met and on how Dad proposed her on Valentine's Day."

"Do you know her birthday?" asked Kristy.

"Good question, I can visit her grave to get that," I answered.

"That's a good idea," commented Kristy.

I started with The Spiers for font twenty-four, which I'm planning to use for every blank page when I do each member. Then I started Chapter 1: Mary Anne. I used the next space and started typing 'I was born Mary Anne Spier on September 22nd at Stoneybrook General Hospital to Richard and Alma (Baker) Spier. My mom got very sick with cancer when I was three months and a few months later, it took her away to heaven. I never knew her at all; I wish I did. My dad was depressed and sent me to Maynard, Iowa where Mom grew up to be with her folks, Bill and Verna Baker, so they can raise me for awhile. I was only eighteen months old when Dad took me back.'

I did a new paragraph before I started, 'All my life, it was just the two of us on Bradford Court. If you think he'd let me talking on the phone even when I have no homework, wear my hair down instead of braids, etc., think again. I even got a cat for my thirteen birthday and named him after a character in Winnie the Pooh, Tigger. I'm one of seven members of the Baby-Sitters Club. I'm a secretary. I collect information about our clients and everything. I'll tell you a little secret: I never made an error.'

"I like it on how you did it," said Kristy.

"Thanks. I choose not to put how strict Dad was in case he wants to see it," I said.

"I don't blame you," said Kristy.

Kayla planned to write about something special. She won't tell me because she wanted it to be a surprise. She had cancer and she beat it. But it came back not long ago. It happened after she collapsed at a fair in New York City. I haven't gone back to any other fairs ever since. She helped us out at BSC Camp this past summer. She had a good time.

Then I add Chapter 2: Richard Spier. Then I did the same thing when I did about mine when I started, "My dad, Richard, was born on March 15, 1965 in Stoneybrook at the same hospital where I was born; Stoneybrook General Hospital. His parents passed away before I became a first grader. Before he met my mom, he had a girlfriend in high school, Sharon Porter. Then after high school, they got separated by Sharon's parents. Why? Because they thought my dad wasn't good enough for their daughter. She was sent away to California for college.'

I started another paragraph before I added 'My parents met in college. Dad's roommate, Savannah Robertson; who is my godmother, was Mom's good friend. He proposed her Valentine's Day at Stamford Fan Zone by using my mom's favorite band and song, The Promise by The Rolling Stones. He's a lawyer in Stamford and is terrific at it.'

I was done when the teacher said, "Please save your stories and you can continue it tomorrow. The computer seat is you assigned spot until the end of the short takes."

We saved them. It was two-twenty-five when we shut them down.

"You can get your coats and backpacks and come back," said Mr. Handyman.

That's what we did. After school, at home, I was writing about Mom. Dad gave me Mom's death certificate after I asked him when I came home. He saved me time so I won't have to visit her grave to collect the birth date and death. It also said she died from cancer. He tells me stories about her. I felt glad I didn't put how strict he was. Why? I was afraid I'd hurt his feelings and I didn't want to take that risk. Besides, I don't miss that part at all. I'm serious he was strict with me. I couldn't talk on the phone unless it's home work and made me wear kiddish clothes. I was 12 when I finally stood up to him to say I was a middle schooler, not a preschooler. Thankfully, I can talk on the phone with my friends whenever I want to and pick out my own clothes. Oh, I had braids. I didn't need to do that anymore. Thank god for that.

During the night, I was calling out, "No, no."

I was sweating while dreaming. Ever since Kayla collapsed at the fairs, I kept getting nightmares about it often. Even when no one mentions it, it still gets stick in my mind. I'm so tired of it.

"No, no," I continued while tossing and turning. "No, no."

"Mary Anne," said Dad.

"No! No!" I was calling out a bit louder. "No! No!"

That was when Dad came in and went to me.

"Mary Anne, honey," said Dad while I was still dreaming. "Mary Anne, it's okay."

I woke up at the time.

"You were having a bad dream," said Dad as I hugged him while he was comforting him. "It's okay now, sweetheart."

He remembers the fair memory still bothers me.

"I wish that fair memory would just go away," I said.

"I know," said Dad.

The next day, Kristy had her parents' fact including her stepfather, Watson Brewer. I was surprised Kristy was letting me typing about her real dad. Why? She doesn't usually like to talk about him much. See, he left when Kristy was younger. She haven't heard from him ever since. She misses him a lot though. Her life changed completely when her mom got remarried to a millionaire, Watson. He owns a mansion across town where the Thomas family had to move into after the marriage. He has two children, Karen and Andrew, from his ex-wife, Lisa Engle, who is now remarried, too, to Seth. Kristy likes Lisa they've seen each other often when Kristy baby-sits her stepsiblings when they're with their mother.

Kristy already has three brothers; Charlie, Sam, and David Michael as well. She also has an adopted baby sister, Emily Michelle. Her grandmother, Nannie, moved in to help out. She hopes if her dad returns to move back here one day, she would join him.

"I'm going to more facts about Mom for chapter three. I can add her birthday and death because we had this card that people pass out at funerals that tells you when they were born and the day when they joined God," I said as I showed it to her.

"Good idea," said Kristy.

"I remembered Dad had extras, so he gave me one when I was growing up," I continued. "I'm doing her before Sharon and Dawn. I'm planning to do ourselves and family members in ABC order from Spiers to Brunos since our associate members are included."

"That was a very smart thinking," commented Kristy.

"I plan to add Kayla, Kaylee, and their family, so I'll do that after my family," I said. "I'll do that after I do Dawn and Sharon. Then, I'll do you after the Willis."

"I like that idea," said Kristy.

"I think she will, too," I said. "She didn't come to school today. She had a cancer treatment. I'll tell Kaylee and she can give me info at lunch."

"Perfect," said Kristy.

"I know," I agreed. "What we can do is tell the others to get their parents' information since I'd add their siblings when I add our friends' information and give it to me today at the meeting."

"Okay," agreed Kristy.

When we did told them at lunch, they all agreed about the idea.

"We'll just tell Logan, Mallory, and Jessi after school," said Stacey.

"Alright," I said.

Shannon joined us and I told her about the plan. She liked it.

Mallory and Jessi are 7th graders at Stoneyrbook Middle School.

After lunch, I finished Mom's facts right up until her death like I planned. After that, I started with The Schafers in the next blank page and then I did Dawn for chapter four. I was already done when I started Sharon for chapter five.

"I bet your story might, you know, be a winner," whispered Kristy.

"Who knows?" I asked her in a low voice.

Then I did Kayla for chapter six and Kaylee for chapter seven. I added how I saved Kayla's save when she first had cancer. I managed to write the fair memory and her leukemia came back. Since they have a big family- they have six younger siblings, her whole family was for chapters eight through 14 . The Thomas/Brewer family. Kristy was chapter 15, her mom was chapter 16, I decided to do Watson first for chapter 17 because step families usually go first, and her dad for chapter 18. Then, I did Karen and Andrew for chapters 18 and 19. Emily Michelle was in chapter 20 and her grandmother was for chapter 21.

I finished the last chapter for Kristy's family before it was time to save our stories and shut the computers down.

"I'm still glad I didn't had to bother telling anyone about Dad being strict," I said.

"I agree," said Kristy.

"I just didn't want to take a risk to hurt his feelings and he might not talk to me. That's what I'm afraid of," I said.

"You did the right thing," said Kristy.

After school, Dad was there to pick me and Dawn up.

"Hi, Dad," I greeted him.

"Hi, honey," said Dad. "Hi, Dawn."

"Hi," said Dawn.

"We can go home first, I just need to finish the paperwork that is due tomorrow," Dad told me.

"Fine by me," I said.

At home, in my room, I was working on Pike chapter for a bit.

Two minutes later, Dad came up and said, "All set to go for the afternoon?"

"You bet I am," I replied.

"So, how was school today?," said Dad after he noticed how quiet I was.

"Good, we started working on our stories for the story contest," I said.

"That's good, what are you doing for the contest?" asked Dad.

"The Life of Baby-Sitter Club Members that includes our families as well," I replied.

"That's a good title," said Dad. "I did remember you were doing that."

At the mall, we decided to go see a movie like we planned to do so. We saw a movie of Old Yeller- a special presentation. It was good, but sad at the end when the dog died after being attacked by a wild hog.

After the movie, we went to the food court for an early dinner. It was barely five. We had Subway; I had a meatball sub with Sprite while Dad had BLT with Dr. Pepper. After dinner, we went to FYI. I was in the music selection when Cokie showed up.

"When are you going to tell everyone how strict your father was?" asked Cokie.

"Try this: It's my choice not to do so. Mind your business," I said.

I walked away before she could embarrass me. She always find a way to do so in front of me. Thank god I kept that as a secret. I wanted to forget about it. She should know I didn't want to hurt Dad's feelings. She should think of this way: What if he wanted to read it? I wouldn't forgive myself. And, I know Dad won't forgive me and I would feel bad. I was cashing out when all of sudden, Cokie announced it. I decided to ignore it though. I wasn't going to let her spoil my day with my father. She should've kept her mouth quiet because imagine if Dad heard that? I'd be crying.

Kristy entered and said, "That Cokie is a pain in the neck."

"I know. I just ignored it," I said.

"Good idea," said Kristy.

I told her what she wanted me to do, but I said, "I refused to do it. Those years are history. So, why should I let that bother me? She should mind her business."

"I agree with you," said Kristy.

"I hope Dad doesn't hear that. Thank god she didn't announce his name otherwise he thinks I added it," I said.

"That's true," said Kristy. "Wait until I let her have it tomorrow."

Kristy left when she spotted her mother. They were spending their day together. Luckily for me, Dad didn't hear a thing about it. That made me feel better. I don't plan on telling him what I didn't want to do at all.

At five-thirty pm, I managed to forget about it at the meeting.

"Are you going okay because of Cokie?" asked Kristy.

"I was able to forget about it," I replied.

"What did she do?" asked Claudia.

I told her and the rest about it.

"Oh, brother," said Stacey.

"Tell me about it," I agreed. "She asked me when I was going to tell everyone about how strict Dad was, but I told her to mind her business and it's my decision not to do it."

"That's right," said Mallory.

"I'm going to let her have it tomorrow," said Kristy.

"You were there when it happened?" asked Stacey.

"She told me about it," replied Kristy.

"Anyway, I ignored it," I said. "There was no way I'd let her spoil my time with Dad at all. Luckily, he didn't hear the announcement. She was trying to get me to tell him. I still refused to do it."

"Good," said Kristy.

"Did anyone have the facts from their parents?" I asked changing the subject.

"We won't be seeing them until later on, so we'll get them then and give them to you tomorrow," replied Jessi.

"Sounds good," I said.

"Shannon's baby-sitting for her sisters, so she'll ask her folks later as well," added Kristy.

The next day, at school, Shannon gave me facts about her sisters and parents. The rest already gave me their parents' facts as well when I met them. I told Dawn I already did Sharon since she's my stepmom. She liked it. In the writing class, I used the blank page to add The Ramseys.

Then I started 'Chapter 22: Jessi. She was born Jessica Davis Ramsey on June 30th in Oakley, New Jersey to John and Janice Ramsey. She has two younger siblings, Rebecca (Becca) and John Phillip, Jr. (Squirt). She is one of the two Jr. Officers. She's the only African-American in the whole sixth grade. She's the newcomer to Stoneybrook and joined right after she moved when her father's company transferred him. She has two aunts, Cecilia and Yvonne. She shares the same birthday with her cousin and best friend, Keisha. She loves to ballet and wants to be a ballet dancer one day. She also has a hamster, Misty.'

Her dad was chapter 23 and her mom was chapter 24. Then I went onto another blank page for The Pikes.

I started 'Chapter 25: Mallory. She was born Mallory Pike in Stoneybrook on May 2nd to John and Dee Pike. She has a huge family with four brothers; Jordan, Adam, & Byron, who are triplets, and Nicky & three sisters; Vanessa, Margo, and Claire. She's the other Jr. Officer. She wants to be a famous writer. She has red, curly hair. She's a terrific sitter to her siblings. If all the Pike kids are home, Mrs. Pike hire an extra sitter because it's impossible to watch all seven when you're on your own.'

That was when it was time for lunch. Kristy went to Cokie angrily.

"Why did you announce an embarrassing thing about Mary Anne yesterday at Borders?" asked Kristy.

"To that wimp…," Cokie started.

"For you information, Mary Anne is not a wimp," Kristy interrupted Cokie. "That was my best friend you hurt. She did tell you she choose not to add the strict rules. Just think about what Dad would say if he read it. Therefore, mind your business next time. Got it?"

She went back to our table.

"Thanks, Kristy," I smiled.

I'm lucky to have a best friend like Kristy. After lunch, I did Mr. Pike for chapter 26 and Mrs. Pike for chapter f27. Then I did the McGills starting with Stacey for chapter sixteen, Mr. McGill for chapter 28, and Mrs. McGill for chapter 29. I was already done with that chapter when it was time to get our things after saving our stories and shut the computers down.

While Cokie was getting her school stuff, I whispered, "When I do Claudia, I better not add what her parents disapprove otherwise if she finds out about it, she might not speak to me again."

"Good way to avoid that. Just put she provides us healthy snacks," suggested Kristy.

"Perfect plan," I agreed.

That was a good idea if I don't want Claudia to get mad at me and don't get me wrong, I don't judge anyone like that. Plus, she made us promise not to tell her parents that she's been hiding junk food and Nancy Drew. That's why I'm not putting that in case her folks want to read my book.

I decided not to tell Kristy in a whisper with Cokie around anymore because of what she did to me! Kristy agreed about my smart move.

After school, at home, I was reading a magazine with Tigger lying on my lap in my room. I love getting sixteen magazines with Cam Geary who is my favorite movie star.

Then I was starting to feel nauseous and went to drink, which made nausea go away, but kept the bottle just in case I get nauseous again. Then the phone ring and came down to answer it.

"Hello. Oh, hi, Sharon," I said. "Okay. I'll let Dad know. How long you have to work for? 10:00 pm. Okay. No problem. Bye."

I did call Dad to let him know on that.

"Okay. You and I can go out for dinner since Dawn's not home either because she's watching the Barrett kids until late," said Dad.

"I remember her telling us that earlier," I said.

"What I'll do is come home first, take a shower, and we can go out," said Dad.

"Sounds good to me," I said.

I won't be watching Jenny Prezzioso until tomorrow night from seven to nine anyway. After we talked, I felt nauseous again and went up for my bottle of water to get that feeling away. It's so tiring to have that feeling.

At six, my stomach gurgled, so I took two TUMS. Unfortunately, it didn't work because I got more nausea than ever. I was drinking more water when I heard the door opened. That was probably Dad and when I came out, I was right.

"Hi, Dad," I said.

"Hi, sweetie," said Dad. "I'll go shower like I mentioned and we can leave."

"Okay," I said.

I just hope I won't get sick that wouldn't make me feel very hungry. Luckily, I didn't get sick since I've been having water for the entire time. I might just have something light anyway. Two minutes later, I was feeling cold and went to see what was the heat on. It was on 60 degrees- no wonder it's cold, so I turned it up to 70 degrees. Luckily, Dad came down then.

"I just turned the heat up on 70 degrees. I was cold at 60 degrees," I said.

"That's fine," said Dad. "All set to go, honey?"

"Yes, I'll just go get my sweatshirt," I said as I went to put it on and came back down.

Then we left to go out. We already decided on Friendly's earlier on the phone. I had chicken noodle soup and a BLT wrap. Then my stomach gurgled again- a sign of an upset stomach, but I ignored it for now. I did not want any desserts, so all I had was water while Dad was having chocolate ice cream. At home, I was in pjs because I was still cold a bit. Plus, I had my robe.

"Are you still cold?" asked Dad.

I nodded and said, "So, I figured I'd put my pjs on. I feel warmer with my robe on as well."

"That's good," said Dad.

"Tell me about it," I agreed.

My stomach gurgled again. At least I had a light dinner. An hour later, the house was nice and cozy thank goodness, but I decided to leave my pjs on in case I get cold again and took off the robe. It took 2½ hours for my stomach to feel better after I took TUMS one hour apart. Dad already knew about it earlier.

I was tired and went to bed at nine-thirty. I couldn't see Sharon, who got home from work after ten, or Dawn who came home after ten-thirty.

"You girls keep your voices lower because Mary Anne went to bed an hour ago," said Dad.

"Okay," said my sister.

"Is she okay?" asked Sharon.

"She's just tired. Her stomach was bugging her for quite awhile," said Dad.

In my room, I was asleep when someone scratched my door.

"Do you want to be with Mary Anne, Tigger?" asked a voice as he was let in. "There you go."

I didn't hear Tigger come on my bed to lay down near my feet, which it's his favorite spot every night or anytime when he's with me.

The next day, I felt better enough for school. At school, started doing the Kishis and I did leave what her parents disapprove. After the Kishis were done, I started doing the two associate members with their families since they're the part of the club. I was done the story after lunch. Then, I added the summary.

"Wow. All we need to do is our pictures," said Kristy.

"All I need is the group picture because I got the pictures of each of us," I said doing a little bit about the author, which is me of course.

"We can do the group picture over the weekend," Kristy told me.

"Sounds good to me," I agreed. "I have pictures of Kayla and Kaylee. I'll put those near us."

"That sounds like a better idea to do," said Kristy.

After school, at home, it started to rain. If it doesn't stop, I'll bring the kid-kit in case Jenny gets bored. Me? I never get bored on a rainy day, I just do my hobby: reading. Either that or I'll watch TV- depends if there's something good on. Unfortunately, I just finished reading a book the other day and every single channel was sort of static even though I had the regular remote, not the VCR remote. It's probably the weather. I already got the pictures of Kayla and Kaylee. This was before the fair memory. It was my camera, so I saved that on my flash drive so I can add it near the group picture. I separated their pictures for each chapter since we don't have anything with them alone. They were always together in every picture. Then on the radio, I heard there's going to be a hurricane here later on tonight. It was going to be Hurricane Allyson.

"What else is new?" I asked as I groaned.

I got a feeling I might have to stay at the Prezzioso's overnight to be safe and sound. Then the phone rang as I answered.

"Hello. Oh, hi, Claudia. Oh, she did?" I asked. "Okay. So, baby-sitting Jenny is cancelled until some other time? I heard it on the radio. Thanks for telling me. Bye."

I hung up. It's cancelled so I don't have to stay overnight. They probably don't want to drive in the hurricane. I don't blame them. I'm also glad Dad and Sharon would be home before the hurricane would begin. Dad told me there was a hurricane not long before he took me back from Iowa. An hour later, Dad was home early. Good. All we need now is Sharon.

"Hi, Dad, did you hear there was going to be a hurricane tonight?" I asked.

"I sure did. That's why I came home early. I already told Sharon to be careful in case it starts early since she won't be home for another hour or so," replied Dad.

"Claudia called me to tell me Mrs. Prezzioso called there to cancel the baby-sitting until some other time," I said.

"Is Dawn home yet?" asked Dad.

I nodded, "She's in her room listening to music."

Thirty minutes later, Hurricane Allyson did start early. The wind was blowing like crazy. Thank god I don't have to baby-sit now otherwise I'd be freezing. Let's hope Sharon would be home safely. I'm getting worried about it and honestly, so is Dad. He doesn't want anything to happen to his second wife and I certainly wouldn't want to lose my stepmom because I don't want to be motherless like I was for a long time.

Luckily, Sharon called to say she'll be with her parents until the hurricane ends. I was shivering and could feel my hands shaking. I cuddled Tigger who was shaking and had his head near my legs. Then, Dad suggested we should go down in the basement to be safe.

Dawn joined us right after we did. I was holding Tigger near my shoulder. Downstairs, I was cold. Dad must have noticed because he got a blanket and put it around me.

"Thanks, that's better," I said putting Tigger on my lap.

"No problem, sweetie," said Dad.

"Where's Mom?" asked Dawn.

"She's with your grandparents to be safe and she's staying there when the hurricane ends," answered Dad.

"Oh, I just want to make sure that she's safe," said Dawn who was relieved.

Then, I jumped when the power went out.

"I'll go get some flashlights," said Dad.

"Be careful not to bump into…," I called after him.

Too late, he didn't hear me- he bumped near the railing. I noticed Dawn tried not to giggle.

"It's not funny," I said as I got up to him with the blanket still wrapped around me. "I'll help you out."

We went up to get the flashlights.

"Got one," I said as I got two flashlights.

I gave one of them to Dad.

"Thanks, honey," said Dad.

We turned them on, but mine didn't go on when Dad went down. I was looking in a draw to look for some D batteries. Each flashlight usually takes one battery. I found one and got it out.

"Gotcha," I thought to myself.

I replaced the old one with the new one. I tested it and whoa, it was a bit bright, but as long as it was working, we're all set.

"There we go," I said to myself again.

I went back down with it.

"I had to replace a battery for this one," I said.

Tigger makes me warm when he sits on my lap.

Hurricane Allyson was still at it by ten, we did had to sleep in the basement. We already had our sleeping bags fifteen minutes before; I was actually planning to sleep on the couch in my sleeping bag so I won't feel so cold. We didn't go to sleep until eleven only I didn't fell asleep until thirty minutes later. Sometimes, when I worry about what happen to us, I get bad dreams. I don't know why. I don't let it bother me.

The next day, the hurricane still didn't stop yet. As a result, all the schools are closed so the students would be safe. I was freezing. I was still in my pjs and had my rope on again.

Hurricane Allyson finally stopped twenty minutes later. It was just raining lightly. The power came back on- NOT. We still didn't have it.

"Did the wires stop working or something?" I asked.

"They weren't working properly," replied Dad.

An hour, the power finally came back on as well.

"Finally," I muttered.

Luckily, the TV wasn't static like it was the other day. The clocks on radio, alarm clock, etc. were blinking, so Dad and I fixed them.

"That's better," I said after checking to see it I had the right time from my watch.

Later, Sharon came home with her parents.

"The house got flooded last night, so they'll stay here until the flood is cleaned out," said Sharon.

"Okay," I said.

To be honest with you, I feel more comfortable with Grandma Verna. I like Pop-Pop though. He's like a real grandfather to me since I never met Grandpa Bill.

"One can have the couch and the other can sleep in Jeff's room," said Dad.

"Or we can add a cot in either Mary Anne or Dawn's room," added Sharon.

Me? Sharing a room with one of my step grandparents? I think I'll ask Pop-Pop about it later when I have a chance. At dinner, I was very quiet. I had just finished with my meal. We had pizza delivery from Pizza Hut. My adopted sister, Meredith, and I share the same room. She's not home right now. Either is my adopted brother, Carlos. They were at their friends' house during the hurricane.

In my room, I was reading.

"Mary Anne," said Dad knocking on the door as he came in to be with me. "Are you okay, sweetie? I was concerned you haven't said a word during dinnertime."

"I guess. I think I'd feel comfortable when I ask Pop-Pop if he wants to sleep in my room with me while he's here," I replied. "I'll ask him later on."

"It's up to you," said Dad.

"I find I feel even more comfortable with Grandma Verna to be honest with you," I added.

"That's true," agreed Dad.

Later, I went to Pop-Pop who was in the living room.

"Pop-Pop," I said.

That was when he looked up and said, "Hi, honey. You look better than before."

"It must have been the weather that was letting me down. Um, may I ask you something?" I asked.

"What's up?" asked Pop-Pop.

"Would you mind if you share a room with me?" I asked.

"That's funny. I was planning to ask you the same thing," said Pop-Pop.

"I guess it's all set then," I said. "Meredith and I share the same room, but she was sleeping over at her friend's house during the hurricane. She'll be back tomorrow. Carlos did the same thing.

He just chuckled at that. Since Meredith's not here, he can sleep in her bed. I was in bed at ten-thirty with Tigger. I didn't hear Pop-Pop come in for bed over an hour later.

The next day, we were back at school. I was glad. We planned to do a group picture at the BSC meeting later on. I had my digital camera and was adding our pictures for the beginning for each chapter. That was done after that.

"There. All we need now is the group picture for the book cover," I said.

Later, at the meeting, we were getting ready to do a group picture since it was only five-fifteen. I invited Kayla and Kaylee to be included since they're part of the book. I put the timer on and I went to join them quickly just in time before it flashed. We laughed. I saw the picture and it was perfect.

"That was wonderful," I said.

"Now, we're all done," said Dawn.

"I know," I said.

"And, Mary Anne, would you mind coming over later?" asked Kayla.

"Sure. Is it about something special?" I asked.

"Yes. But if I mentioned it, it won't be a surprise," said Kayla.

Later, Mrs. Prezzioso called to have me to reschedule to sit for Jenny on Saturday from seven to nine. We were busy after that. I guess everyone is glad that the hurricane's over.

After the meeting, I left with Kayla and Kaylee so I can go over to their house. I called Dad to tell him I'd be running a little late. He didn't mind. At their house, Kayla wanted me to have a picture taken.

"Where?" I asked.

"What about out in the backyard?" asked Kayla.

"Okay," I replied.

"We could get your hair done first," said Kaylee.

"Sounds good," I said.

They love to play with my hair. Kaylee had my hair in a french braid. After that, we went out in the backyard. She asked Kaylee to join me. We even had a group picture. Her camera has a timer. Once she had it on timer, she rushed in the middle before the flash went out. It was perfect. I wonder what was it for.

"This is for my writing project," said Kayla. "When you had that group picture for your cover, that gave me that great idea. But, you'll still have to wait and see."

I tried to ask Kaylee, but she said she promised Kayla not to anything.

"My lips are zippered," said Kaylee.

"Drat," I said as we giggled.

The following day, I added the group picture on the book cover and it came out perfectly. I checked for errors in case I need to fix them. There was none since I'm perfect with spelling, grammar, fragments, and so on. Then I printed that story out after I checked it.

"Once everyone is done with their stories, I'll send them to Publish America and they'll send the letter about you who will be in first, second, and third places like I mentioned before. Runner-ups still can get their books publish, but no interviews for any runner-ups," announced Mr. Handyman.

The story was already done printing at the time and I got up to hand it in.

"Very impressive. I like the way you used the pictures for each chapter and the book cover," commented Mr. Handyman.

"Thanks," I said.

At lunch, I told the others about how the teacher liked the idea.

"Wow," said the girls.

"I bet you could one hundred percent beat Cokie," whispered Stacey.

We giggled. After school, I got my camera on my way out. At home, I put it away. I also realized I was the first who was done. Everyone was almost done especially Kristy who has about two to three pages left.

A week later, the letter arrived just before school started for the day. When we got to Writing Class, Mr. Handyman was about to make an announcement.

"Listen up, everyone, the winners are here," Mr. Handyman began taking the letter out. "The third place goes to Louis Young, Kristy Thomas is in second place, and the first place winner is Mary Anne Spier. In fact, there was a tie for first place. The other one is Kayla Willis."

My jaw dropped open at that. I won first place!

"Way to go," said Kristy who was excited for me.

"You, too," I said.

Kayla was thrilled about it, too.

"That was amazing you and Kayla were tied for first place," said Kristy.

"I know," I said.

"The books, including for runner-ups, will be here in another week and those three winners will be interview in the auditorium at nine in the morning," continued Mr. Handyman.

Later, at lunch, Kristy and I told my friends what was going on.

"Wow! When's the interview?" asked Dawn.

"Sometime next week at around nine in the morning," I said. "I hope I'd do okay. The only good thing about is Kristy and Kayla would be interviewed with me thank goodness."

"That's good," said Claudia.

"Kayla won, too?" asked Stacey.

I nodded and said, "We were tied for first place."

"Wow," said Stacey.

"Good for her," said Claudia.

"What did the girls asked you to their house after the meeting a few weeks ago?" asked Kristy.

"Kayla wanted to take a group picture of the three of us, but she still won't tell me what was it for. I'll have to wait and see," I said.

"I wonder if it's about how mean Cokie is," whispered Claudia as we all laughed at her joke.

I'm so shy that I'm afraid to be sick on stage. Cokie would make fun of me about that. But I was too excited to think of that. That night, I told Dad the news.

"That's wonderful," said Dad.

"I know," I said.

"That's true. You did fine back then," said Dad.

"In fact, Kayla also won first place. It was a tie," I said.

"That's very good," said Dad.

"What I'm nervous about is that I'm going to be interviewed. I found out it'll be on Monday," I said. "I remember the last time I was interviewed when I just saved Kayla's life back when she first had cancer."

"You did fine last time. I'm sure you'll make it out fine with this one," said Dad.

He's so smart about it when I get nervous about anything,

"I could pretend that I was being interviewed after saving Kayla's life," I said.

The next day, at breakfast, I found out Dad came down with the flu two hours ago: he was hot & cold at the same time and didn't want anything. I thought I had it myself, but the heat read 65 degrees and turned it up to 70 degrees. Then, I could feel my stomach flip-flop. It does that when I'm still nervous when it gets queasy.

Then I heard voices when I noticed Cokie with Logan. Wait… why is she with him? I was at the living room window.

"I bet that wimp girl would be too shy to say a thing," said Cokie.

"In your dreams, don't you dare talk about my girlfriend like that," said Logan angrily.

I'm glad Logan did tell Cokie to quit it. That's what I like about him. I ignored what she said and walked away to go read in my room pretending I didn't hear anything. I was telling Meredith about it.

"Logan just told her off by not talking about me like that," I said.

"Good," said Meredith.

"I just ignored it anyway. I didn't let that bother me," I said.

"Good idea," said Meredith.

That was when Sharon announced, "Lunch is ready."

We went downstairs.

"Why Cokie was here with Logan?" asked Dawn.

I told her about it and added, "I ignored it, but Logan didn't like that."

"Glad he stopped her then," said Dawn.

That night, Dad was feeling a bit better and came down dressed. He just had some soup.

"You look better tonight," said Sharon.

"I am, thankfully," said Dad.

I probably didn't know he was up because I was on the porch with Logan.

"I'm glad you stopped Cokie. I ignored her anyway. I pretended I didn't hear it and went up to my room to read," I said.

"It's good you don't let that bother you," said Logan.

"I'm nervous about the interview. The only time I was interviewed was when I saved Kayla's life," I said.

"I remember that part," I said.

"Luckily, Dad gave me advice about Monday," I said. "I can pretend I was at the interviewed after I saved Kayla's life."

"That's a good idea to do," said Logan.

"I know," I agreed.

After Logan left, I went inside.

"Oh, hi, I didn't know you were up. Logan and I were talking on the porch," I said.

"Meredith told me about what happened," said Dad.

"Yeah, but I wasn't going to let that bother me. I ignored it," I said. "Logan told Cokie to drop it."

"Good," said Dad.

Apparently, that thought about what Cokie said made me nervous because in the middle of the night, I was tossing and turning in bed while after having a nightmare. Why did it had to bother me now? I ignored it earlier.

"No, no," I was calling out. "No, no."

Meredith turned over and noticed that.

"Mary Anne," said Meredith as she got up to me. "Mary Anne."

But I just kept tossing and turning.

"No, no," I continued.

"Is she alright?" asked Dad who must have heard that.

"She's dreaming," said Meredith.

"I can take it from here," said Dad as he went over to me. "Mary Anne, honey."

"No! No!" I was calling out louder.

"Mary Anne," said Dad as I woke up this time. "It'll be okay, sweetie. You were having a bad dream."

"Although I ignored Cokie, it was starting to make me nervous about the interview again," I said.

"I think you'll do fine," said Dad.

"I just hope so," I said

On Monday, at school, Publish America agency, Sarah Freitas, came in our classroom.

"Hello, everyone, I'll give you the books to the winners first. Those four winners, including the one who are tied for first place can wait for me to be interviewed while the runner-ups get their books, too," said Sarah.

That's what she did and once she finished giving out the books; she took me, Kayla, Louis, and Kristy left for the auditorium.

"We'll give you the same questions and you each answer at the same time starting from Young to Thomas," said Alexis. "Both Kayla and Mary Anne will be together since they both won first place."

At least going second sounds better. Being interviewed with Kayla made me feel better. Let's put it this way to make it better: nobody was in the auditorium and that made me feel much better since I get very nervous when I had to do anything in front of everyone. When I read a paper, I don't look up.

How did I do? I did just fine and felt comfortable without anyone in the auditorium. That's how I like it. It was nearly ten when we were done and had a group picture for the newspaper.

Then, Kayla told her about me and I was very surprised when she said she wrote about me.

"If it wasn't for her, I wouldn't be here today. She still helps me out ever since cancer returned. I would do the same thing for her," said Kayla. "Mary Anne is more than my best friend, she's like a sister to me."

Later, at lunch, Dawn said, "How was the interview?"

"Good. Luckily for me, there was no one in the auditorium during the interview, so I was all set. I felt much better and felt comfortable that way. It wasn't ten when it was over," I replied.

Kristy explained one how it was done. Then, I told them what Kayla said about me.

"Wow," said Stacey.

"She's lucky to have you," said Kristy.

"Did she add us, too?" asked Stacey.

"She said she did, but she feels I was the one who have been helping her the most," I said. "She even added if it wasn't for me, she wouldn't be here today."

"That's very nice," said Claudia.

"I know," I said.

"That's good. May we please see your books?" asked Claudia.

"We don't have them with us. We don't want them to get dirty," I replied.

"Oh, right," said Dawn as we laughed.

"How about this? Kristy and I can show it to you at our meeting later today," I said. "Kayla said she'll show me later on after school."

"Good idea. We should also celebrate," said Stacey.

"I'll also show it to Dad and Sharon later on," I told Dawn. "Oh, by the way, I told Cokie off this morning by telling her how she would like if anyone talks about her if she's ever nervous or shy."

"Good," said Kristy.

"Good job," said Dawn.

The rest already knew about Cokie.

"I hope you didn't add what my parents disapprove," said Claudia.

"Relax. I already decided not to do so; I only put healthy food. You know I would never do that," I smiled.

"Healthy food works. Thanks," said Claudia.

"Especially if your parents want to read her book," added Kristy.

"I know. That's why I didn't want her to add that I h-i-d them if she did add that," said Claudia.

I can see why she spelled that: Cokie was three tables away and would probably open her huge mouth like she did when I told her when she wanted me to add my secret about Dad's secret rules. I didn't blame Claudia for doing that.

After school, I went over to Kayla's house. Kaylee told me Kayla was dismissed two hours ago for a doctor's appointment. I was walking with her. When we got there, Kayla was already home. She showed what she wrote about me.

"So, that's why you wanted me here to take a picture," I said.

"Yup," said Kayla. "It's good to be sneaky."

We just laughed at all.

"I want you to have that. I have an extra one here," said Kayla.

"Oh, you're so sweet," I said.

"You bet," said Kayla.

We did a group hug while we laughed. Then, I went back home because Kristy was baby-sitting nearby and she was going to meet me at my house to get to the meeting together. When Kristy and I got there, no one was there yet.

"Where is everyone?" asked Kristy.

"I'm not sure. It's nearly five-thirty," I said.

That was when I saw shadows and when Kristy & I turned, our friends called out, "Surprise!"

"This is for us?" asked Kristy.

"Yes, it's a congratulations party," said Claudia.

"Wow! This is great," I said.

"I know," agreed Kristy.

"I think we should have the party while we have the meeting," said Claudia.

"Me, too," said Stacey.

"Yeah, you both deserve it," added Mallory.

"You shouldn't have," I smiled.

"Well, we should," said Jessi.

We started laughing at that. We had fun in between phone calls. I also showed what Kayla wrote about me.

"Wow, she still added us after all even though she did you the most," said Stacey.

After that, Kristy and I showed them our books. They liked it. Claudia was glad I did the right thing by not putting hide junk food or Nancy Drew books because I was certain her parents would buy and read it.

The next day, Dad surprised me by showing me my picture on the front page when I got up for school.

"Whoa! That was quick," I said.

"I loved your book," said Sharon.

"Thanks. My friends loved it, too. Even Dawn liked it," I said.

They also liked what Kayla wrote about me. Later, I had a terrific great at school. Most of the teachers and most others had me, Kayla and Kristy signed our autographs from the newspaper every time they saw me, Louis, and Kristy at different times. In fact, even our friends had our autographs. That one thing Kayla would always remember.

The End.