I have had children of my own for almost a decade and a half. I was a child myself for a large number of years. Ask my wife, and she'd say I'm still rather childish. Knowing all of this, it's surprising that I haven't written a children's story until now. Honestly, the thought of attempting one has never entered my mind.
During a chilly morning walk to school with my sons, one of them started singing a silly song he had recently learned. There were no specific lyrics, just a list of animals and matching hand gestures. The end of the song is punctuated by a slightly unexpected animal. Now, how to turn this in to a story.....?
Word had spread. All the animals of the forest had heard. There was to be a large party. There would be good food. There would be dancing. There would be fun with friends. It would be a good night for all the animals invited.
Mr. and Mrs. Raccoon had decorated the glade with ribbons. Lights of all colors hang from the branches. Mr. Rabbit had cooked his favorite vegetables. Mrs. Bear made a salad mixed with bright berries. Mr. Cat caught enough fish for everyone to enjoy. There would be a lot to eat.
The Beaver family brought their drums. The Canary sisters had been practicing new songs for a week. The Duck brothers had their trumpets and Fred Frog was an expert with the guitar. Music would flow like a breeze between the leaves.
The party started and all the animals started having fun. There was dancing. There was good music. There was beautiful singing and laughter. Every animal at the party was enjoying the night.
It suddenly went silent. The singing stopped. The drummers stopped drumming and the horn players stopped blowing. Everyone looked in the same direction. They all stared at one animal that just arrived. Nobody expected him to be at the party. Nobody expected him to bring snacks. Nobody ever expected Squirrel.
Who would you invite to an animal party? What do you think they would bring?
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