The First Snowfall of the Season by Larner
Jasna · 18 November 2017 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
It's really wonderful! Very beautiful and touching story. And there're Valar here! :) May I ask: had someone translated this story into Russian already? And if not, may I be so bold and ask your permission to try to?
Armariel · 5 August 2010 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
Somehow I missed this one. Very lovely and just a tad mystical. Like the snow figures and Frodo-lad finding that handprint. ~~~~~{~@
Mîdhaer · 16 August 2009 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
*laughs in a happy way* wonderful story. Frodo visiting M-E again, playing in the snow. wonderful, simply wonderful.
Author's reply
Oh, thank you so! I enjoy thinking that now and then there was a bit of communion offered these so separated by distance and fate!
Ariel · 16 March 2009 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
You know, just when you think every possible story idea surely must have been written, you find another! A sweet tale indeed. And a very welcome find. Thank you.
Author's reply
What a delight to get a review of this story from you, Ariel! Thank you indeed--and I'm glad to prove it is possible to write something new under the sun! I'm so flattered. It was a joy to write, and had to be written after one of my ficlets within "Wherever the Prompt Might Lead."
Baggins Babe · 27 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
What a marvellous story of the two worlds touching, however briefly, and the comfort it gave to all on both sides of the Sundering Sea. The petals of the White Tree appearing in Middle-earth and the snow lingering long enough for Frodo to know it was more than just a dream. I love the image of Aragorn and Arwen visiting the hobbit quarters and sitting on cushions. You managed to make me cry with this one, Larner!
Author's reply
Oh, I'm so honored, BB! I, too, love having the two worlds touch at least briefly! Now I MUST get some sleep--tomorrow is approaching quickly--all too quickly, and I'm exhausted!
Nierwen · 25 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
That was so lovely and sweet. I enjoyed it very much! -nb
Author's reply
Thank you so very much, Nierwen! It was nice to write a story in which Frodo just had fun for a change! Heh!
Soledad · 25 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
Oh, this was lovely. I especially liked the well-placed snowballs. And that you had Isengar bring that Haradri custom to the Shire. All hail to the Mad Took! Blessed Christmas!
Author's reply
Am so glad you like it, Soledad. After one of the ficlets in the Advent Calendar series, this one HAD to be written! Heh! And indeed, all hail the Mad Took! And the same to you!
Lindelea · 25 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
What a lovely Christmas present! This tender tale brought a tear to my eye. *hugs*
Author's reply
I'm so glad, Lindelea. And joy to you and yours and Zoe! May this Christmas season fill you with so much joy!
Inkling · 24 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
What a lovely gift to all of us! It's in the very best "Christmas Carol" tradition...a dream that proves to be much more. Hmm, does that make Gandalf the Ghost of Yule Past? Thanks and Merry Christmas, Larner!
Author's reply
It's my joy to offer it, Inkling! So glad it has struck such a cord! Thank you so! And Gandalf as one of the Ghosts? Hehehehehehe! He'd like the idea, I think!
Raksha The Demon · 23 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
A lovely holiday treat; how nice that Frodo got to spend some time in Middle-earth with friends, after a fashion.
Author's reply
Yes, it was a wonderful scenario to contemplate! Thanks so, Raksha!
Queen Galadriel · 23 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
*beams* Awww! That is so sweet! And what a wonderful, wonderful gift for all of them and for us! I love the family feeling that pervades the whole story, and the memories of Frodo that the marks he left brought out, and dear Frodo's confusion when he woke to find himself chilly and wet from actual snow. :) So, so sweet. Thank you!
Author's reply
Yes, a truly miraculous gift for them all! These would all feel like family to one another, I think. And seeing Frodo's footprints and the handprint--it must have been wonderful! Thank you, my Lady! And a joyous Christmas to you!
Andrea · 23 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
But it was Frodo-lad who found the handprint where the sculptor of snow had steadied himself when he started to slip--the print of the right hand, with one finger clearly missing! That was a wonderful story, Larner! It was a joyful moment not only for Frodo, but also for the others present. I especially loved it that both places (or worlds) were connected for a short time, so that Arwen found the leaves of the White Tree of Tol Eressea, and Frodo found the melting snow. Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to you and your family :)
Author's reply
For a moment they touched, the two worlds; and there was reassurance, I think, for both sides. And seeing that handprint must have been a delicate, poignant delight. Thanks you so, Andrea! And may your Christmas also be delightful!
Elena Tiriel · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
What a heartwarming holiday vignette, Larner! I have also written Olórin in Aman as being an advocate for his friends from Middle-earth, so I really liked that aspect of his personality. But the idea that Frodo got to recreate his first-snowfall traditions, especially pelting his dear friends with snowballs, and his friends were able to realize that he was there, was the highlight for me. A lovely job, Larner! I enjoyed reading it. Happy Holidays! - Barbara
Author's reply
Oh, I'm so glad you like it, Barbara. Yes, I remember you doing just that--Olorin as advocate; and I do feel he was one who truly held love for each of those with whom he dealt over the ages of Arda. We do need to have reassurance from time to time that those we love who are far from us still are able to know our love; and no matter how beautiful and healing the nature of the Undying Lands, Frodo is a sojourner there, not necessarily a full resident. Hungering for mortal bread and mortal loves, as he was indeed a mortal. It's reassuring to me to allow him these small contacts with those he loves, and the ability to realize just how much he's healed--and for that realization to be known by BOTH sides. Thanks so very much!
eiluj · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
A snowball assault on the High King: the hobbit doesn't lack for audacity! I kept noticing prompt words from the drabble series ... bottle, moon, monkey, money, chair, bread, snow, boat.... Surely you could sneak in the other dozen words? *lol* What a lovely, lovely present! And a Merry Christmas to you also. Psst: Tulkas's wife Nessa is the only one of the Valar not mentioned.
Author's reply
It was the Rivendell story that inspired this one, as I found I had to explain the backstory my mind automatically provided for why he sculpted a monkey, bottle, and loaf of bread! Heh! Was boat in this one? And Frodo has immunity, I think! And I'll have to slip Nessa into the story, I guess! I thought I might be missing someone, but couldn't remember who! And glad you enjoyed this.
6336 · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
This was a very good expansion of your Advent Calandar ficlet. Sometimes you need more than memories to sustain you. It must be very hard for Frodo sometimes, with Bilbo gone, even with the Elves and Mair befriending him, to be a stranger in a strange land. It will still be many years before Sam can join him. More please, Lynda
Author's reply
Oh, I agree about needing more than memories. Frodo is the one mortal now amongst the immortals, and it's just not the same! Sam's coming will be like being reborn again for him!
Antane · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
How wonderful for Frodo! And for the others, though I wish they could have seen their beloved treasure but at least they heard his laughter and saw his handprint and other evidence. That would have been joy fit to burst and then longing and heartbreak too perhaps that it was so brief, but how wonderful still. Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
They didn't see him, but he saw them! And he got to experience snow again in a moment of wonder, a moment of renewal as a simple Hobbit once more! Thanks so, Antane.
Independence1776 · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
This is a wonderful story! Everyone, especially Frodo, recieved what they needed. It's one of the hardest things to deal with at this time of year- seperation from those you love. I'm glad they were able to reunite for just a little bit, even if they never actually met. ~ Indy
Author's reply
Oh, yes, a moment of communion, a moment of reassurance, and a moment of mutual wonder! That reassurance is often most treasured! Thanks so, Indy.
Dreamflower · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
This is just delightful! I love how you have built on your Advent drabble to come up with something new! Turning the snow-sculptures into a Haradirc custom was a really clever move! And I love the idea of Frodo occasionally being given a treat of a special dream, and that he can commune wiht his loved ones in that way--leave is to Gandalf-Olorin to come up with the idea.
Author's reply
There was a reason why Frodo chose to sculpt what he did in the gardens of Rivendell; this occurred to me then, and finally I'm able to explain it to others. The others needed to know that Frodo was healed enough to play in such a manner, delighting in the snow, sleeping beneath the White Tree of Tol Eressea, resuming some of his old habits and delights, remembering the little rituals he'd taken to himself to rejoice in changes of season. And he needed reassurance that life is going on, and his sacrifices are worthwhile! As for Gandalf--he'll never give over his love for these particularly, I think, ever bearing that love before the Valar and the Creator as a reminder of just how much each of them was able to accomplish!
Sunny · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
I suppose the christmas calendar story the other day was sort of the haiku version of this :-) Well done (for both of them)
Author's reply
Once I'd had Frodo sculpt bottle, loaf, and monkey, I knew the reason for the choice to do those shapes was this; and then I had to find a way of expressing it, showing his friends that Frodo was feeling indeed much restored, able to play again, able to plot and giggle, and enjoy the snow as he hadn't in years! Thank you so! I am honored!
Fiondil · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
Oh, Larner! Such a lovely story. I liked how you incorporated the monkey, bottle and loaf of bread from your Advent series. So it wasn't quite a dream was it? *grin* The Valar all gathering to give their assent to the 'dream' was really neat. I liked the way you described them. And Olórin is definitely Olórin whatever his guise. Thank you for such a delightful story. I hope someday we read more about Strider in the North. I'm sure there were adventures there as well. Merry Christmas!
Author's reply
When I had Frodo do his snow sculptures, I had to find a reason for those items in particular to be sculpted, and this reason came to me. So, having their backstory, I had to find a way of explaining it! And I wanted for the others to realize that Frodo was indeed restored--at least enough to lie in wait for innocent folks and pelt then with snowballs! Plus the snow that's hit so much of the U.S. lies heavy on us here in the Pacific Northwest as well. I had to work it in somehow! A bit more than a dream. If a dream is shared by more than one, just how much of a dream is it, after all? And for this gift to be made manifest, I believe that all of the Valar would need to assent. Gandalf is himself ever, no matter what guise he takes--you have it there! As for more stories of Aragorn/Strider's visits to the north--they will come, at least from time to time--if I can EVER get some of my longer tales written, of course!
Tigger · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
Oh Larner...This is just so snuggly delightful!! I love how the Valar listened to Olorin/Gandalf's suggestion and reasonings behind the gifting of the dream to Frodo and in turn to Aragorn and our other favorite hobbits. I can just picture the look on Aragorn's face as he began to tell Sam, Merry and Pippin off only to realize as they got nailed w/their own snowballs that it wasn't any of them who threw the one at him. :oD The monkey, bottle and loaf being shaped in sand in Harad and snow in The Shire though is a new one for me. Knowing how thoroughly you background things for your stories, I'm assuming this is based on an actual culture from our Ancient times? Oh and my Dad is wondering, is it really true a monkey can guide one to clear water? Neither of us have ever heard that one before. Once again, a delightful and wonderful story m'dear!! Wishing you and your a Blessed and Wonderful Christmas and a Glorious and Happy 2009!! ((((HUGS))))
Author's reply
To see them share his fate would have helped him calm down quickly, I think. The idea of those shapes were begun in the advent drabble and a half I posted yesterday; and I was imagining this reason for them as I wrote that. But the building of Green Man figures in Cornwall and Wales; the burning of Guy Fawkes effigies; the making of various statues and breaking them sacrificially by the Maya and Aztecs; the making of small boats and setting them to float on rivers and streams in memory of those gone or in hopes of sending prayers or wishes to the gods or Santa or Father Yule or whatever--they've been common enough throughout history and in other folks' fanfiction stories; this particular one is merely an addition by me of another POSSIBLE such tradition. As monkeys share mostly our tastes in fruit, I suspect they make good enough guides to pure water and good natural foods in the wild for one willing to take the time to watch them--although I think many of them get most of their fluids from the fruits they eat. I don't KNOW that this reliance of them as guides is true, but can certainly imagine it! And a delightful Yule to you, too! Christmas and New Years are happily anticipated here! ((Hugs)) back to you and yours!
UTfrog · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
This is a wonderful present to all your readers. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Merry Christmas to all.
Author's reply
I am glad to share the season with all of you. Thanks, UTfrog. Merry Christmas!
shirebound · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
What a lovely Yule story! This really put a smile on my face. May your holidays be full of joy, dear Larner.
Author's reply
I'm glad to bring happiness in this way. Merry Christmas, a Hannukah filled with light, a New Year of improved prospects, and a Yule/Solstice in which darkness is indeed defeated! Thank you!
Kitty · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
Oh Larner, that was lovely, absolutely lovely! When the hobbits told their stories, particularly Sam his, then I thought I'd like to see a happy AU where Frodo can play in the snow with them - and I very nearly got my wish! What a great idea to give Frodo such a real dream that he got to really play in the snow, and even pelt the others with snowballs! And the others realising he had been there for a short time - that was just perfect! Dear Olórin, to ask this boon for a homesick Frodo! Just beautiful *happy sigh* That story is a great Christmas gift to your readers, you know. Merry Christmas to you and your family, a Happy and Healthy New Year and wonderful holidays! **hugs**
Author's reply
I am so glad you like it so, Kitty! It was a pleasure to write and to find a way to expand upon the drabble and a half I did the other day. To have those fleeting moments ofmutual awareness must have been wonderful and necessary for them all. And you are most welcome! Read it in good health and may it help warm you always! A joyful Christmas to you and yours as well!
nancylea57 · 22 December 2008 · Chapter 1: The First Snowfall of the Season
what a wonderful wake up to on a cold and nearly snowy day, thank you.
Author's reply
Oh, am glad it helped warm you. Now the days grow longer again!