Liberty & Mr. Pickup's Problem

 Good morning!

I'm going to keep this short as I have a lot of things to do today. For one, it's the first official day of camp. That means it's July! Wait, what? I need to clean the house, and send emails, and write, and prepare to teach Children's Church on Sunday since we're heading to a church family picnic tomorrow and I'll be too busy to prepare then.

This week has been good. We had lovely weather at least in the morning since Monday! So nice that we had the windows open and went and walked. Not much writing at all done, but I did reach the end of Don Wood and got it sent off for a synopsis. Yay! One step closer to publishing this story.

I searched and searched for some patriotic story to post, but I had either posted it only a few years ago, or had published it. So I'm giving you a patriotic poem and a short story. Enjoy!

 

 

Liberty

In this great land where Old Glory does fly
Have you ever stopped to ask yourself why?
Not even a thought to why we are free
In this great land with all our liberty?

Go ask your neighbors, the man on the street,
Ask your relations, whoever you meet,
Over our heads where Old Glory does wave,
Why does it fly o’re the land of the brave?
Does it display with its red, blue and white,
True freedom and liberty, honor and right?

Watch as our flag bravely snaps in the breeze,
Its colors show best when its not at its ease.
Even in this we can learn a great thing,
From the midst of our struggles bright freedom will ring.


True liberty comes, the price we must pay,
Say thanks to the soldier who fought in the fray.
Remember this price, blood won’t pay it all
For to you and me sweet Liberty calls.
“Unto you I’ve given a charge don’t forget,
You’ll lose all your freedom unless you repent.
Stand on your honor, remember to pray,
God heard us before, He’ll hear us today.
Turn to righteousness, dishonor defy,
And with God’s Liberty, Old Glory shall fly!” 

Mr. Pickup’s Problem

Once upon a time, in a small town somewhere in the world, lived a man. His name was Mr. Pickup. Now Mr. Pickup owned a small store in the center of town where he sold many useful and some not so useful things.

One morning as Mr. Pickup walked to his store, he stopped to look at someone moving into the the shop next door. He paused for a few minutes to watch the men working.
“Hmm,” he said to himself, “they seem to have the same things that I sell.”

All during that day, Mr. Pickup wondered about the store next door.

The next morning as Mr. Pickup walked to his store, he stopped and his eyes opened wide as he looked at the shop next to his. It had a large sign over the door which read: “Best Buy.”
“Oh no,” Mr. Pickup thought, “what can I do?”

All that day he thought about that store beside his and wondered what to do.

The next morning as Mr. Pickup walked to his store, he stopped, his eyes opened wide, and he whistled as he looked at someone else moving into the shop on the other side of his store. On looking closely, he realized that they too had the same things he sold in his store.
“Oh no! What am I going to do now? Mr. Pickup thought.
All that day he thought about the new store and wondered what to do about the sign on the first store.

The next morning as Mr. Pickup walked to his store, he stopped, his eyes opened wide, he whistled and shook his head as he looked at the new store. The new store had an even larger sign over it’s door which read: “Lowest Prices.”

All that day Mr. Pickup sat alone in his store and wondered what he could do about the first store. And he wondered what he could do about the second store. And he wondered what he could do about their signs. He thought and thought.

He was still thinking as he walked home to his house. He thought as he ate his dinner. He thought as he got into bed and turned out the light.
Suddenly, a wonderful idea came to him, and he bounced out of bed. Not waiting to get dressed, he ran out to his garage and started working. He worked hard.

In the morning Mr. Pickup walked to his store. He was earlier than he had ever been. He didn’t stop, his eyes didn’t open wide, he didn’t whistle and he didn’t shake his head, but he got out his ladder and put up his own sign. In letters larger than the other signs were the words: “Main Entrance.”
All that day Mr. Pickup didn’t have time to wonder and think about the two other stores. He was very busy all day long. Mr. Pickup had solved his problem.

The End

 

Do you have plans to celebrate the 4th?

Have you read any stories on here from 2019?

Have you had nice weather this week?

July Story - Part 2

 Good morning!

Can you believe it is already the 6th of August? Summer is closing in on fall, the year is more than half over, and God is still on the throne.

KDWC is almost over for another camp. We'll clean up, pack up tents, and everyone will head home. Virtually, that is. I have two more picture prompts to write but I think I can get them written either today or today and tomorrow. I've enjoyed this break from all my other stories while still writing. Some of the scenes probably won't go beyond what I wrote, others might someday get more written. And yes, I'll probably share some more on here.

I worked as an election judge for a special election on Tuesday. We had more people voting than I thought we'd have. We ended the day with 85 voters in my polling place. 

The rest of this week I've been working on trying to catch up on computer stuff, or taking care of things, putting things away, and other things. This evening my nieces and nephews are coming over so their parents can have a date. The boys will probably be helping take down the last shelves and pulling the paneling off the sewing room. We are hoping to start the actual demolition of the walls and floor and stuff tomorrow.

 Today's story is part 2 of that 4th of July story I gave you a few weeks back. Not sure how many people read it since no one commented, but someone told me they wanted more, so here is the next part.

 

    “Kate, I’ll reschedule. I can’t just leave you here alone if you’re having contractions.” Kylie stood near the front door, her purse over one shoulder but a frown on her face. “I mean, what if this time it is real, and the baby decides to come, and I’m not here?”
    “Kylie, I’m fine! These contractions are not even close together. How many other women have been left alone three weeks before their baby is due? I’m not made of glass.”
    “But I told Joe–”
    “Kylie Smith, you are going to go have lunch with Mike. If you don’t, I’ll text him and tell him you’re sick. That will bring him here.” And Kate rested her hands on her hips.
    “But I’m not sick.”
    “You’ve almost talked yourself into being sick with nervousness. Come on, you’re an extravert.”
    Kylie sighed. “Kate, just because I’m an extravert it doesn’t mean I never get anxious or nervous. I mean I haven’t talked to Mike for two years. We’ve changed.” Her voice dropped. “At least I’ve changed.” She shook her head quickly as though to shake off her thoughts and said somewhat ruefully, “And now we’re having lunch together. I don’t know why I agreed to do this.” She chewed on her lower lip and looked out the front door.
    Her twin placed a hand on her arm. “You’ll be fine, Kylie,” Kate said softly. “If I weren’t so noticeably pregnant I’d be tempted to trade places with you again.” Her remark brought a smile to Kylie’s face.
    “Somehow I don’t think Joe would like to learn you went out to lunch with a strange guy.”
    “Oh, I’d just tell him I was interviewing the man as a possible candidate for brother-in-law.” Kate smiled innocently.
    “Kate!” Kylie clutched her purse strap and her eyes glared at her sister. “Don’t ever suggest such things if Mike is around! I may not even like him anymore.”
    “Well,” Kate said practically, “you won’t know unless you actually meet him. Now, if you aren’t out in that car and backing out of the driveway in two minutes I’m texting Mike and telling him you might be coming down with something.”
    “You’re impossible!”
    “I know.”
    Kylie couldn’t help but grin at her sister. Sometimes Kate got under her skin, but she couldn’t do without her. “If you start having contractions closer together or stronger, let me know at once! I’ll come right home.”
    “I’m fine, and I’ll let you know. Now get going!”
    Kylie got. Moments later she was driving toward the local cafe, a place much loved by nearly everyone. “Lord,” she prayed, “I don’t know what I’m doing. Please help me. It would be nice if I still liked Mike, but it has been so long. And I’m nervous. Why did I run into him on the 4th? Please be with Kate while I’m gone. I don’t know which I’m more nervous about–Kate having her baby or having lunch with Mike.” She heaved a sigh and pulled into the parking lot of the cafe glad to find it not as busy. The lunch rush must not have arrived yet. “Well, here we are. Please help me, Father!”
    She could see Mike standing casually near the front of the quaint building. One hand was shoved in his pants pocket just as he used to stand waiting for her. Pausing before she got out, Kylie studied him, for it had been dark when she had seen him on the 4th. His hair was cut short but there were signs of the ways that showed when it was longer. He was watching a mother with three children walk by and a smile spread across his face.
    Letting out a breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding, Kylie grabbed her purse and reached for the door handle. “He still looks like the Mike I knew.”
    The air was humid and hot. Mike saw her and smiled as she approached. “Hi,” he said. “Hungry?”
    Kylie nodded. “It doesn’t look too busy. Looks like we beat the lunch rush. Thanks.” She stepped through the door Mike opened for her. “Do you eat here often?”
    “I’ve actually never eaten here before,” admitted Mike casting a quick glance around. “Reminds me of Ma’s Kitchen back in Iowa.”
    “Table for two?”
    Kylie nodded and then followed the waitress to a booth near the back of the cafe.
    As Mike slid into the seat across from her, Kylie wondered for the seventh or was it the seventieth time why she had agreed to this plan of having lunch together. Picking up her menu, she scanned it even though she already knew what she wanted.
    “So, what’s the best thing to get?”
    Kylie looked up. “That depends on if you want chicken for beef.”
    “Tell me the best of both and I’ll pick.”
    A smile found it’s way to Kylie’s lips. That was exactly what Mike from two years ago would have said. “The grilled chicken sandwich is the best chicken meal. But if you want beef go with the smothered cow.”
    “Wow, they both sound good.” And Mike studied both selections with care. “Although a smothered cow sounds a bit–interesting. But I’ll try it. What are you getting? Chicken?”
    Kylie nodded. “Sometimes I get the pasta, but Kate can’t stand the smell of chicken right now and I’ve been longing for some.”
    “When’s she due?”
    “Three weeks. She’s had some contractions today so if I get a call or text, I’m leaving.”
    Mike grinned. “I don’t blame you. Is this the first niece, nephew–?”
    “Yes. Kate and Joe decided not to find out and I can’t wait!”
    Just then their waitress returned with waters for them and took their order. When she left, Kylie squeezed two lemon slices into her water and then ate another one.
    “I still don’t know how you can stand to eat those things.” And Mike made face.
    Kylie laughed remembering his shock the first time she had eaten a lemon slice.  

How has your week been?

Do you like to eat lemon slices at a restaurant?

Are you ready for summer to end?

Independence Day Poem and Pony Bob

Happy "almost" 4th of July!

And if you are from Canada, Happy "late" Canada Day!

The week disappeared and I'm not sure what happened to it. Let me think, what did I do this week?

Saturday– I worked outside in the morning, and was even out in some rain. And I got in the chiggers. I could have done without the nine chigger bites on one ankle.

Sunday– I helped in Children's Church and got to see what lesson I'll be teaching this month. I also got some things figured out about the Christmas Play I was asked to write and direct this year.

Monday– It was one of those days where you have a long list of things to do and everything seems to take longer and at the end of the day you aren't sure if you got much done even if you list is mostly crossed off. That was also the day I decided to set aside Book 3 of my new series and let it sit for a bit. Something just wasn't working and while we have an idea of what it might be, I don't have time or brain power to go back and fix it right now. So you can be praying it will all come together later.

Tuesday– My aunt came down for the day. She hasn't been down since . . . I don't know when. So that was fun. I was able to get some things done.

Wednesday– It was our first day of Camp! It was exciting to open it with 70 people counting the Aunties. This was also the day I almost drank a brown recluse spider. He was in my glass of water and I was talking and didn't notice him. Until he tickled my lips. Then I spit out my water and dumped my glass. I'm still not sure if he was actually in my mouth or just almost.

Thursday– I worked on this and that, and the other thing.

One thing I did this week–though I don't remember when–was make a list of ALL the stories I've posted on my blog (that haven't been turned into novels) except the Christmas ones. Anyone want to guess how many I've written? Now I can look at the list in my planner and see the date(s) I've posted any stories. Hopefully this will mean I can repost some stories for you.

Anyway, here's a poem and a short story. Hope you enjoy them!

Independence Day

If I lived in Philadelphia, my heart would swell with pride,
In 1776 I’d stand, with patriots at my side.

If I served at Ft. McHenry and the British came to fight,
In 1812 I’d wait to see Old Glory in the light.

If I traveled west by wagon, I would gladly stop and say
A prayer of thanks to God above on Independence Day.

If I flew a plane with Rickenbacker above the foreign skies,
I’d be fighting for our freedom and its glow would fill my eyes.

If I were on board the Missouri in 1945,
I’d thank the Lord that peace had come and I was still alive.

If I joined Neil Armstrong in his trip up to the moon,
I’d wear a grin because I’d know my flag was going too.

So many years of history, of battles, folks, and things,
Our flag still flies in freedom’s skies while my heart loudly sings.

This land of 50 states and stars, the land I call my own,
Is for the brave, the true, the free, where Liberty calls home.

Where should I then in this great land its birth to celebrate?
Two hundred forty-four years have gone, God bless the United States.

If I were east in Washington D.C. I’d watch the fireworks display.
If I were up in Boston, I’d hear the Boston Pops play.

If I were in west in California I’d see a dazzling sight.
If I were down south in Austin, I might celebrate all night!

But I am here with family, in the middle of the land,
No fireworks or speeches, and no military band.

But I’ll still give thanks for the U.S.A.
And celebrate Independence Day!

~**~

February, 1872
Union Town
Nebraska Territory

    . . . This month has been rather interesting because we have had a visitor, Pony Bob Haslam. He was traveling west, but the storms stopped him. He rode for the Pony Express years ago and has been with us now for two weeks. He is a great favorite especially since he told David that Storm was one of the finest horses he has seen in years. He tells the most interesting stories in the evenings about his life and even a few about the Pony Express. The boys said I have to tell you the story that Mr. Haslam told us last night. And they say I have to write it in story form. I told them that I wasn’t sure I could or that you would be too interested in it, but Ben asked, “She has brothers doesn’t she?” So, I will do my best.

    It was a beautiful mid summer morning in Nevada when Pony Bob turned his steps in the direction of the Pony Express station. He had been a rider for some time and enjoyed it. Of course there were times of great danger and times when great wisdom was needed, but on the whole what could be more exciting then carrying the mail through snow & hail, cold & heat, outlaws & Indians? At the station Pony Bob waited for the rider to come in from the east. Soon he came, and Pony Bob was on his way west. His mustang made pretty good time, and Pony Bob saw no sign of Indians. He had ridden for quite awhile and just up ahead was the Reese River Station. There he would change to a new horse and continue on his way. His first horse was getting worn out. It had already carried him seventy-five miles that day. Just a little farther down the road was the station. Pony Bob blew his horn to let the station master know he was coming, so that he could get a new horse ready. But alas, when he rode up, there was the station master but no horse! “Sorry,” the station master said. “Don’t have any horses ‘round here a’tall. Not even a mule.” “What!” Pony Bob exclaimed.  “What’s happened to ‘em all?” “Gone to fight the Indians,” was the reply. There was nothing for Pony Bob to do but get back on his weary horse and head for the next station.
    Upon arriving at Bucklands, he found much to his great relief, a new rider and horse. But his relief was short lived. Richardson refused to go. Nothing like that had ever happened before. “I weren’t quite sure if he was sick or just plain scared. All’s I know is he dumped the blanket,” Pony Bob later reported. So after switching the mochila (the special pouch that holds the letters) to a fresh horse, Pony Bob mounted and rode off. Thirty miles later, he got a new horse. Then thirty -seven more miles and another change of mounts. Finally he rode the last thirty miles to the next station where Jay Kelly relieved him. Pony Bob had come one hundred ninety miles and was ready for a rest. He went into the station and collapsed on the floor for some much needed sleep.
    A little later, “Hey Bob, wake up!” roused him from a deep sleep. Pony Bob yawned and opened his tired eyes. “Eh,” he said, “What’s up?” “The western rider is, or rather he’s down. He fell off his horse and is too crippled to ride farther. Will you take the mochila, Bob?” Pony Bob yawned again and stretched. “How long have I been sleeping?” “’Bout an hour and a half,” the station master replied as he helped the injured rider to a cot. “Long enough,” Pony Bob said. “Saddle up.” In less than five minutes Pony Bob was in the saddle and was riding back over the same route that he had started on.
    As he neared Cold Springs, the station where just a few hours before he had changed horses, he began to have a strange feeling that all was not right. He saw the station just ahead, so he sounded his horn. Nothing happened. He rode up to the door. All was quiet. Too quiet. Not a horse or a man was to be seen or heard. Pony Bob slowly opened the door and looked in. Much to his horror, he found five men dead. The Indians must have raided the station soon after he was there, killed the men and run off the horses. What should Pony Bob do now? Should he risk everything by riding his weary horse through the country that was alive with the red men? He decided to try, for the mail must go through. As he rode off from Cold Springs, he kept his eyes open for any sign of Indians.
    At Bucklands, an hour or so later, division Superintendent Morley had just ridden in when Pony Bob arrived on his exhausted and foam covered horse. Morley listened with a grim face as Pony Bob recounted the story of Cold Springs. “Lay low until evening.” Morley ordered. “You’ve got no chance of escaping those Indian bands in daylight.” Pony Bob nodded and headed into the cabin to sleep until evening while Morley kept watch.
    Nine hours later, Pony Bob was on a young & high-mettled mustang riding off into the gathering dusk, A few miles later he suddenly spotted some Indians! He lay low in the saddle, quietly urging his horse on, but at the same time keeping his eyes on the Indians. They didn’t see him. But a little later, Pony Bob suddenly heard something to his right. Glancing quickly over, he noticed several Indians on horseback coming his way. Just at that moment they also noticed him and began to chase. Pony Bob thought quickly, could his horse outrun the Indians’ mounts? He was pretty sure he could, so leaning forward in the saddle, he urged his horse on faster & faster. After chasing for several miles, the Indians left Pony Bob and disappeared into the darkness.
    Finally, as dawn began to break, Pony Bob arrived safely back where he had started, and another rider took the mochila on. Pony Bob had ridden three hundred eighty miles with only ten and a half hours sleep, and safely delivered the mail.

How many stories do you think I've published on here?

Did you enjoy today's "double feature"?

Does it seem strange to be thinking about a Christmas Play?

A 4th of July to Remember – Part 3

Good morning, FFFs,

(And no, that's not Five Fall Favorites.)

How has your week been? Mine's been good. Not as busy and stuff as last week with the 4th and a picnic on Saturday. I've gotten a lot of writing done this week which has been good. I now have two Christmas stories finished and a 3rd started. Well, one of those first 2 hasn't been edited yet, but I did reach the end of the story. :) "Lawrence & Lenexa" is coming right along. And so is my secret project.

I've also been working on getting our final bloggers for the Five Fall Favorite blog party. Yeah, I know, that doesn't happen until October, but we have to give everyone time to pick their books and write their blog posts.

I feel as though there should be other things I need to get done, but I'm having trouble remembering what they are. :P Oh, well.

Oh, I do have more audio books in the works! "Hymns in the Hills," "Stories Through the Seasons," "His Law is Love," and "TCR-4" are all in the works.

Okay, here's the final part of this 4th of July story. Let me know what you think of it.

A 4th of July to Remember

Part 3

    But at last Mr. Lewis returned to the mic. “There is one more special person who is going to share with you this evening. Most of you already know Al Wu, but this week he and his family experienced something that I don’t think any of us have ever had to go through. And I want him to tell you about it.” He turned toward the door. “Al?”

    Stepping up to the microphone, Mr. Wu shook his head and adjusted the stand. “I have never spoken to a crowd this large before. Actually, I don’t think I’ve spoken to a crowd at all.”

    A ripple of laughter went through the listeners at his words but hushed again as he cleared his throat.

    “My name is Al Wu, for those who do not know me. My wife, Mei, and son, Eric, are down there somewhere. This week the three of us and our unborn baby went to the the courthouse. No, we were not in trouble. Many other people were there too. It was an event that forever changed our lives. There we became citizens of the United States of America. I–”

    He wasn’t able to say anything else, for cheers and applause drowned out any words he might have said.

    When the crowd quieted, Mr. Wu continued. “To those of you who have grown up here in America, you do not know the joy I have in my heart right now. You have not lived in a country where your pastor was taken away to prison for teaching his congregation of Jesus. You’ve never lived where you must be very careful what you say to others, and where you can not go to church freely without fear. You have not been told you can only have one child.

    “Here we can openly and with joy welcome our little one when she comes. We can teach our son to love his country and honor God. We can have a say in who will govern us by voting. The years I have lived here in America I have dreamed of the day when I too could vote in your elections. Now, thank God, I can! My wife can. And, in about eight years, our son can.”

    This brought laughter from those listening, and several heads turned to smile at Eric.

    “We are not just free from fear, from persecution, from pressure to do what the government decides we should do, but we have liberty! Liberty to teach the truth to our children, to gather together as friends, to worship, to pray, to work, to serve. I saw a quote by one of your, no, our presidents–” he smiled as he corrected his mistake. “He said, ‘Ask not what your country can do for you–ask what you can do for your country.’ And, my friends, I feel that longing to do something for my country here,” he placed his hand over his heart, “in my heart. To you this feeling might be old; it might not have ever stirred, but to me, to my wife, and I hope, to my son, this liberty stirs my heart. It was paid for by the blood of many, many lives who died to defend it, and still it lives on. With liberty and justice for all.” His voice broke, and he looked up into the evening sky. It was still light, and not a cloud was to be seen. “This is my country.” He drew a quick breath. “Land that I love.” He paused, hesitated, and then turned and walked away from the mic.

    For a moment the crowd below was quiet, then the applause started and the cheers rang across the countryside.

    It was an evening the Wu family never forgot, for after Mr. Lewis had dismissed everyone, friends new and old gathered around the family and welcomed them with smiles and congratulations. In the middle of talking with Mrs. Lewis, Mei suddenly pressed a hand over her stomach and gasped.

    “Mei?” Mrs. Lewis asked anxiously. “Is it the baby?”

    “Yes. The baby–I need my husband.”

    One of the other ladies disappeared, and a moment later Al was beside her. “We will leave Eric here and go to the hospital,” he told her.

*

    From her room in the hospital, Mei cradled the small baby in her arms and looked out the window. She could see fireworks now and then, even though it was almost midnight.

    “I think,” the nurse said softly, “that your little one wanted to celebrate her birthday in a big way every year.” And she smiled down at the baby.

    After the nurse had left the room, Mei looked down at the sleeping baby as Al gently took off the pink hat. Tiny bits of black hair covered the baby’s round head. “She’s so tiny and perfect. Our little American baby.”

    A tap came on the room door, and Al left the bed to let Eric in. He motioned him to the bed. “Go meet your sister,” he whispered. Then he noticed Mr. and Mrs. Lewis in the hallway. “Come meet the newest addition to the American family.”

    Though they protested, he insisted and led them into the room.

    Mei smiled at them as she placed the baby in Eric’s arms.

    “What’s her name?” Eric asked, not taking his eyes off the sleeping face of his little sister.

    “Ann Liberty Wu.”

    “What a lovely name,” Mrs. Lewis exclaimed softly, leaning over to look at the baby.

    “We had to name her Ann,” Al said. At the inquiring looks, he explained, “If you take the first letter of my name and Mei’s. And add Eric’s name and Ann, only with one N, what do you have?”

    “American,” Mei answered when the others remained puzzled. “She is our first born American baby. And she shares the birthday of our new country. Together our family has struggled, prayed, hoped, and dreamed, and now at last we are Americans. This little one,” and Mei gently brushed her daughter’s cheek with her finger, “is our reminder of everything.”

    The baby stretched and opened her hand. Mr. Wu placed the stick of a small American flag in it, and the baby gripped it tightly. Outside the distant boom and pop of fireworks echoed, and bright colors, sparkling and shining, lit the night sky on that memorable 4th of July.

How has your week been?

Did you enjoy this story?

Are you excited about the upcoming FFF party?

A 4th of July to Remember – Part 2

Happy late Independence Day!

I hope you had a lovely 4th of July. (Even those who live outside the US.) I mowed in the morning. The yard looks so much nicer when it's just been mowed. Who mows the yard at your house? I didn't do a whole lot, read some, and did a few things. But I did write. My mom had suggested I write 1776 words on the 4th. So that was my goal. And I did it! I had to stop in the middle of a sentence, but I reached 1776 words, which was fun! :) I could have gone out to watch the city's fireworks last night with my best friend, but I didn't really want to go out in the heat and humidity again. So I just watched the neighbors' fireworks out the windows, and then went to bed.

The rest of the week has been pretty normal. We haven't done any babysitting, and I don't think we will since we'll be going to some friends' house on Saturday for a church picnic/4th of July party.

But as far as writing goes, this is the first week of Camp NaNo, and I'm already being told that I'll finish on the 7th of July. :P I guess I need to up my goal. I had made it only 10k since I will be gone for a week this month. However, I've already written over 6k words. We have a great group of girls in the cabin this month and almost all of them have gotten something written.

But anyway, here's the next part of this story. I hope you enjoy it. It will end next week.

A 4th of July to Remember

Part 2

    It was a busy morning in the Wu home. After breakfast was eaten, and the family had read the Bible together and prayed, there were dishes to wash, and food to prepare for the large get together a family from church was having. Mei was thankful the family were neighbors and lived just down the road. She didn’t feel like driving very far.
    Al disappeared onto the back porch to work on the speech he was to give that evening at the gathering.
    As for Eric, he rushed here and there, now helping his mom, now running up to get something from his room, and finally getting permission to ride his bike to the Lewis’s to help them get ready for the company.
    “You call when you arrive so I will not worry about you,” Mei instructed him, handing him her cell phone.
    “Sure. Okay, Mom.” Eric’s smile was wide, and his eyes sparkled with the excitement of the day. Quickly his put on his helmet and mounted his bicycle. “Call if you need me to come back and help.”
    Standing on the porch, Mei waved. “I will. Be helpful there or come home.” She sank onto the porch swing and watched Eric pedal up the country road. “A country as grand as this ought to spend a week celebrating its birthday.” Smiling to herself, she gave the swing a gentle push. “But that wouldn’t make the day as special,” she decided. “I feel like I should go to school again to learn all about the history of America. I have learned much already, but still there is much I do not know. Will either of my children grow up to do something for this their country? Something that will be remembered in the history books? Others have. Why not the son and daughter of immigrants from China?”

    Al found her still on the swing some thirty minutes later. “Eric called me when you didn’t answer the house phone,” he told her.
    “Oh, I forgot. I got to dreaming out here and didn’t hear it.”
    Sitting down beside her, Al put an arm across the back of the swing and rubbed her shoulder with his thumb. “What were you dreaming about?”
    “Our children growing up in this great land. Here they have freedom. Here they have a future.” She rested her head on his shoulder and fell silent.

*

    There were people everywhere! Mei looked around from her chair in the shade. There were children on the swings and play-set, other children were shooting off water rockets, while a group had gathered down the hill to play baseball in the field. Earlier in the afternoon there had been relays and games for all ages. Most of the adults, young people, and children had participated in the activities to some extent, and there was much laughter and cheering.
    Soon the food would be brought out and then the speeches and songs. Mei smiled to think that her husband was to give one of those speeches.

*

    Full and tired, Mei leaned back in her chair. The food had been delicious. It had taken time, but she had grown to enjoy American food as much as the kind of food she had grown up eating. Rubbing her stomach and wincing slightly as the baby kicked hard, she smiled as Eric came over and dropped down in the chair beside her. His black hair was wet with sweat, but his smile couldn’t have been brighter.
    “They said it was almost time for the speeches,” he told her before reaching for his cup of lemonade and downing the rest of it with a few large gulps. “Think I’ll get some more. You want any more, Mom?”
    “No, thank you.”
    Eric was soon back, and others began to gather with chairs or blankets facing the house. “Dad’s inside waiting for his turn to talk.”
    “Did he seem nervous?” Mei asked anxiously.
    But Eric shook his head. “No, just excited and proud. Look!” He pointed to a door on the second floor that led onto the flat roof of the porch. “I guess that’s where they’re going to give the speeches. Everyone’ll be able to see them.”
    He was right. Mr. Lewis came out first and set a microphone up. “Testing, testing.” Tapping the mic he looked down at the faces. “Can you all hear?”
    “Yeah!”
    “Okay. Then let’s get this evening started out right. First off, thank you all for coming. I hope you’ve enjoyed the day as much as I have.”
    Mei clapped with the others.
    “Now I’ve asked Ed Henry, who served as a chaplain in the Army for–” he looked back over his shoulder at an elderly gentleman “–how many years? For forty-five years. I’m going to ask him to come lead us in a word of prayer and then the pledge of allegiance.”
    Bowing her head, Mei Wu listened with tears in her eyes to the words of the prayer. For the first time in her life she was now a citizen in a country where men of prayer ministered and served in the armed forces. When the prayer was over, she rose to her feet and placed her right hand over her heart as her eyes turned toward the American flag flying freely on the flag pole.
    “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America . . .”
    Before anyone could sit down, the music of the Star-Spangled Banner was heard, and from every throat the stirring song filled the evening air.
    The Declaration of Independence was read by someone dressed in period costume, which Mei and Eric found quite interesting as they had only seen pictures of the outfits worn during the American Revolution.
    Eric leaned over after the reading was done and whispered, “I’ll bet he was hot!”

Have you ever dressed up in colonial clothes?

How was your 4th of July?

Did you watch any fireworks last night?

A 4th of July to Rememer – Part 1

Good morning, FFFs,

It's hot. It's humid. It's summer. And I stay inside in the AC as much as possible. Sure, call me a wimp. I grow languid and my brain won't create stories when I'm too hot and humid.

But let's change the subject, shall we?

Camp NaNo starts next week. Am I ready? Sure. I guess. I mean I'm just going to keep doing the same things I've been doing the last two weeks, so yeah, let's keep it up. I'm really enjoying this "different story a day" thing. Here's my "schedule" (subject to change when any story gets finished) (All titles are working titles and may be changed at a moments notice.):

Monday– "A Police Force for Christmas"

Tuesday– "Lawrence & Lenexa"

Wednesday– "Full House Christmas"

Thursday– "Secret Project"

Friday– Uh, I actually haven't written on a Friday yet, but it might be another Christmas story.

Saturday– Well, I don't have a set story for this day either. I could work on one of two things. I guess we'll see what happens.

If any of you who read this would like to do Camp NaNo but don't have a cabin, you are welcome to join us Next Door. We still have 8 beds left. ;)

Okay, here's the first part of my 4th of July story. I haven't decided what I think about it yet. Let me know your thoughts.

A 4th of July to Remember
Part 1

    Mr. Al Wu held the small American flag in his left hand along with the piece of paper as he stood up. He glanced over at his wife as she stood near him, with their ten-year-old son, Eric, between. This was it. The time had come.

    “Everyone, please raise your right hand and repeat after me. I hereby declare on oath–”

    “I hereby declare on oath–”

    The judge continued reading the oath that would forever change the lives of those in the room. “. . . That I will support and defend the constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies foreign and domestic . . . And that I will bear truth faith . . . So help me God.”

    The room echoed the solemn pledge. “So help me God.”

    Looking up, the judge smiled. “Congratulations! You all are now United States Citizens!”

    The room erupted into applause and cheers. Mr. Wu felt tears forming in his eyes as he clapped with the others. This was really happening. This day he had dreamed of for so many years. It had finally come!

    “Al Wu.”

    Once again standing, Mr. Wu received a firm handshake and his certificate as a citizen of the United States from one of the clerks in the court room.

    “Mei Wu.”

    Mrs. Wu stood, one hand still holding the American flag as it rested against her pregnant stomach. With a smile that made her face seem to glow, she shook hands and took her certificate before resuming her seat as the small gathering clapped.

    The next one called was Eric Wu. The boy stood straight and tall, solemnly shook hands, and took his certificate.

    “Thank you, Father,” Mr. Wu breathed. “We are all Americans now.”

    The rest of the ceremony was short, and soon everyone was dismissed. The newly sworn in citizens greeted each other like friends and family even though most of them had never met before and came from different countries. But the countries of their birth no longer mattered; now they were Americans.

    “When is your little one due, Mrs. Wu?” asked one of the clerks who had taken a few moments to chat.

    “In two weeks. I am thankful this happened before she arrived.”

    The clerk smiled and tucked a strand of blonde hair behind her ear. “I’m sure you are. Do you have a name picked out yet?”

    Mei shook her head. “We have not decided. So many names.” She shook her head again, and her black hair swung loose in a graceful way around her face. “When she arrives we will find her name.”

    “I’m sure you will. Well,” the clerk held out her hand, “congratulations once again on becoming American citizens. And congratulations on your new little one.”

    “Thank you very much,” Mei Wu said softly.

    Al gently took his wife’s arm and, with Eric following, walked out of the courthouse and into the bright summer afternoon.

    “Dad,” Eric said as they drove home, “the baby will be born an American, won’t she?”

    “Yes, son. She will, thank God.”

*

    The morning light shone through a break in the hazy clouds and seemed to make the American flag waving proudly in the breeze to glow. Everything was quiet out in the country. No traffic, sirens, or neighboring dogs broke the hush of that July morning. Mr. Wu, returning from his morning run down the country road, turned into the freshly mowed yard and paused to look.

    The house wasn’t new, and the white paint was peeling from the porch pillars, but it was home. Flowers grew around the porch while the chair and porch swing sported pillows of red, white, and blue. Looking beyond the porch, the rolling fields of grass changed to a misty hill covered in trees which gave it an almost purple look.

“O beautiful for spacious skies,

For amber waves of grain.

For purple mountain majesties

Above the fruited plain!

America! America! God shed His grace on thee,

And crown thy good with brotherhood

From sea to shining sea!”

    Softly, as he started walking slowly, Al Wu sang the words through with a fervent heart. “Brotherhood,” he mused, walking slowly to the house; “people from every country in the world have come together, and each has given something to this country. Some have not given good, and for that it is a shame. But others have given good. God helping us, we will give good to this country who has taken us in. And may we always be the kind of people who give our best to this country as Americans.”

    He stopped short and stood silent. “That’s it!”

    Suddenly he hurried across the yard and into the house. “Mei,” he called, hearing someone in the kitchen.

    “I am here.”

    Rushing into the kitchen, Al beamed at his wife. “I have a name for the baby!”

    Mei rubbed the round bulge under her red and white dress. “You do? She is not born yet. How do you know?”

    With a movement, Al snatched a pen and a paper napkin and wrote a name.

    “Ann?” Mei sat down at the table. “I do not understand this. How–” She broke off as her husband wrote a few other things on the napkin. Suddenly her eyes filled with happy tears. “Yes, yes. That will be her name. How did you think of it?”

    “I was outside, and it just came to me. But her middle name, Mei, that I do not know.”

    “Let us wait on that. But should we spell it like my grandmother A-N?

    Al shook his head. “No, she will be an American, and it will be spelled A-N-N.”

    “Ann,” Mei repeated dreamily rubbing her baby bump once more. “It is the only name that would fit.” She smiled up at her husband. “Now go. Get a shower and come help me. I hear Eric upstairs. Now there will be no more peace for this Independence Day.” She smiled as she spoke. “Just think, Al, our first celebration as Americans is to celebrate the birthday of the country who has given us a home and freedom.”

    Leaning down, Al let his kiss answer for him before he left the kitchen.

Is it hot and humid at your house?

Are you doing Camp NaNo?

What did you think of the first part of this story?

Just a Patriotic Interlude

Independence Day!

Happy Independence Day!
What a glorious morning! Do you have big plans for today? Are you going to shoot of fireworks or watch a display of fireworks tonight? There are so many things I'd love to do today to celebrate the 4th, but I have too many grand ideas. :)

This week has been interesting in regards to my computer. It's gotten worse and worse. But, the good news is that I have another one on it's way to me right now! Well, I don't think it's moving on the 4th, but it should arrive in a day or so. Then maybe I can start working on catching up with everything.

Update on Triple Creek Ranch:
I have gotten back into writing book 4. Finally. I have 8 parts written and parts of two other scenes which come later on in the book. I don't normally write parts ahead of myself, but these two scenes just needed written before I thought about them too much. :)
Book 3 is getting close and closer to being finished. The illustrations are almost finished and once I get my new computer I'll be able to work on putting the book together! I can't wait. I'm sure some of you are eagerly waiting for it's publication too. :) I'll try to hurry.

And now, I'm going to give you a poem I wrote. It's been a long time since I wrote and posted a poem, but I didn't really have anything that fit with the day, so I hope you enjoy it. If you want a story to read, you can go read the Medford's 4th of July here and here.

Independence Day

If I lived in Philadelphia, my heart would swell with pride,
In 1776 I’d stand, with patriots at my side.

If I served at Ft. McHenry and the British came to fight,
In 1812 I’d wait to see Old Glory in the light.

If I traveled west by wagon, I would gladly stop and say
A prayer of thanks to God above on Independence Day.

If I flew a plane with Rickenbacker above the foreign skies,
I’d be fighting for our freedom and its glow would fill my eyes.

If I were on board the Missouri in 1945,
I’d thank the Lord that peace had come and I was still alive.

If I joined Neil Armstrong in his trip up to the moon,
I’d wear a grin because I’d know my flag was going too.

So many years of history, of battles, folks, and things,
Our flag still flies in freedom’s skies while my heart loudly sings.

This land of 50 states and stars, the land I call my own,
Is for the brave, the true, the free, where Liberty calls home.

Where should I then in this great land its birth to celebrate?
Two hundred thirty-eight years have gone, God bless the United States.

If I were east in Washington D.C. I’d watch the fireworks display.
If I were up in Boston, I’d hear the Boston Pops play.

If I were in west in California I’d see a dazzling sight.
If I were down south in Austin, I might celebrate all night!

But I am here with family, in the middle of the land,
No fireworks or speeches, and no military band.

But I’ll still give thanks for the U.S.A.
And celebrate Independence Day!

Happy Independence Day!

The Medford's Independence Day - Part 2

Good Morning Faithful Friday Fiction Fans!
I hope you all have had a charming week. Did any of you get rain? We did!!! It was so wonderful! I wanted to go out and take a walk in it but along with the rain came the thunder and lightning, so . . . I stayed indoors. I went up to write Saturday night (when we got the rain) and it was so pleasant to sit up there and write while listening to the pitter-patter of the water drops on the window and the skylight.


Friday and Saturday were just normal days.
On Sunday we again had to go to church in Dad's truck because my brother still has our van and had to have it if they were coming to church.
But, on Monday we made an appointment to use the van in the morning so we could do a few things. We went to Connie's, Jo-Ann's and Hobby Lobby. That was fun. We haven't been able to go anywhere except in the truck to church for a few weeks now.
The rest of the week was pretty much the same as it always is. I'm looking forward to seeing pictures from my illustrators before too long! I've heard from them and they are working.
I have been working on a new project. I'm compiling old letters that my grandparents wrote to their parents while my mom and her siblings were growing up. I've gotten the 50s done and laid out in a book except for adding pictures and I'm working on the 16s. It's rather fun reading about what was going on in their lives back then.

Today the N. children are coming over to spend a couple of hours. Don't know how long.


Writing Update: I finished writing the last short story for the younger short story book. And no, I'm not posting it. There are two stories in that book which are not going to be posted on here. That way it'll give you all something new to read if you get the book once it's published.
Last night I was going to work on TCR, but I realized I hadn't printed the last part yet and it had been a while so I couldn't remember what had happened. Then I was going to work on Dr. Morgan, but I couldn't decide if it should be the next morning, afternoon or the next day. (Any suggestions?) So I just worked on another short story that I think you all will enjoy. It is rather fun and I've laughed a bit as I've written. I don't know how long it will be. Right now it is 3,500 words long. How long do you all want it?

Oh yes, I'm still looking for a few one or two sentence reviews to put on the back of the short story books. If you would like to write one (please!) I'd love to have it! But I'm going to need it soon. So either e-mail it or leave it in a comment. Thanks!


Here is the last of the Medford's Independence Day. I hope you enjoy it.
Last week:

    The quiet of the early afternoon didn’t last more than an hour and a half for the children couldn’t remain quiet any longer. Their backyard, the only one in the neighborhood with a real playground, swings and forts, was the gathering place for every child around and soon the yard was teeming with shouts, laughter and children.
    Walter and his best friend, Frank, organized the battle of Yorktown while Lillian, Alice, Helen and their friends reenacted the dumping of tea in the Boston harbor. All in all it was a lively afternoon and when the telephone of the Medford home began to ring, Mr. Medford send all the extra children home for their suppers.
    “It is too nice to eat inside,” Mr. Medford began to his wife and Mary Rose.
    “And the children are much too excited to sit at the dining room table,” Mrs. Medford returned laughing.
    “Eating outside will be just the thing!” exclaimed Mary Rose, pausing in her work of cutting up a watermelon.
    As was expected, the rest of the Medfords agreed that eating outside was the best thing to do on the 4th of July, and a merry meal they made.
    “Hurry up with the dishes, girls,” Walter urged as Lillian and Alice set about their evening task slowly. “It won’t be dark for a while, and I think we should have time for our own parade.”
    “Oh yes!” Alice exclaimed, flying about the kitchen. “I had forgotten all about that!”
    “What about the others?” Lillian asked as she began washing the dishes with haste.
    “Frank said they’d be over as soon as they could after they had eaten. I’m going to run over and remind a few of the others. Just hurry.”
    “We are!”

    The other children began arriving just as Lillian and Alice were finishing the last of the dishes.
    “We haven’t swept the floor!” wailed Alice mournfully.
    “I’ll do that,” Mary Rose offered. “We didn’t eat inside so it won’t need much. You two go on.”
    After a quick thanks to their sister, the girls flew out the door and joined the others.
    Sitting on the front porch, Mr. and Mrs. Medford smiled at the sight of the new parade, for Walter, the undisputed leader of the neighborhood children, carried the American flag, and beside him, playing his trumpet marched Frank while behind them a dozen or so children marched, eyes before them, proudly singing,
    “My country tis of thee,
    Sweet land of liberty
    Of thee I sing.”

    Down the street the children’s parade marched, singing the songs of their country loudly as they followed the stars and stripes. All about the neighborhood Walter and Frank led them and everywhere they went, friends, neighbors, older and younger brothers and sisters, parents and grandparents came out of their houses to stand or sit on their porches and watch and listen until the parade ended at last where it had started, before the Medford home.

    As soon as it began to grow dark, the Medford family again left their home. This time to walk up the street to the corner where they were joined by Grandma and Grandpa Medford as well as most of the neighbors.
    “Mary Jo,” Grandma Medford asked Mrs. Medford, “did you know about the children’s parade?”
    Mrs. Medford shook her head, “Not until they started,” she replied smiling.
    “Well, they certainly did a fine job,” Mrs. Rochester put in.
    And Mrs. Burton, Frank and Katie’s mother, agreed.

    The fireworks display was grand and many were the cries of delight from those gathered on the grass or in the trees to watch. When at last, the final glittering light faded into the dark but star-spangled sky, most of the crowd hurried home. The Medford children were especially excited.
    As Mrs. Medford tucked the younger three, who had fallen asleep, into bed, Mr. Medford, Mary Rose, Walter, Lillian, Alice and Helen brought out their fireworks. The sparklers were handed out to the girls while Walter and his father prepared the others. All down the street other families were getting ready as well.
    “I’m sure glad that our street is the first connecting street between Main and Broadway,” Alice exclaimed excitedly to Mary Rose. “Because now we can put on our own show.”
    “Yes,” Lillian agreed. “This is always my favorite part of the day.”
    It was indeed a show to all those cars driving down the street that night. On either side, sparklers glittered and glowed waving in spirals, circles or other shapes from eager hands while from the driveways bright colored lights shot up into the sky with loud booms, whizzes, whistles and pops. Shrieks and shouts came from children in the passing cars, and the children on the sidewalks returned the calls until they were hoarse.
    Finally the last car disappeared and the last firework was sent whizzing up to disappear in the darkness. Good nights were called among the neighbors and Mr. Medford directed his weary but still excited children into the house.
    “The younger three are already asleep,” Mrs. Medford reminded them as they prepared to troop upstairs to their beds after saying good night to their parents. “I don’t see how noise would wake them after sleeping through all the racket that went on, but leave the lights off.”
    “We will, Mama,” Mary Rose assured her. “I don’t think Helen will get any farther than the door of her room before she’s asleep,” she smiled as Helen stumbled with eyes nearly closed towards the stairs.
    Walter turned in the doorway and said, with a grin for his father, “Are we going to wake everyone up in the morning again, Dad?”
    Mr. Medford chuckled and winked while Mrs. Medford retorted, “Only if you don’t want to sit down tomorrow.” And she shook her head with a fond smile at her husband and son.
    “Good night, Mom, Dad,”
    “Good night.”   
    Silence settled down over the neighborhood, lights turned off in the houses and only the sound of a few crickets and cicadas broke the silence of the last half an hour of that glorious Independence Day.

What did you think of it?

Did you like it?

Would you like to read more about the Medford family?

The Medford's Independence Day - Part 1

Good Morning Faithful Friday Fiction Fans!
Did you all have a glorious 4th! Did you watch parades, walk in parades, have a cookout, shoot off fireworks, watch fireworks, and celebrate America's birthday with lots of noise and fun? I watched fireworks. I also ate watermelon and ice cream (two July 4th foods). It was HOT here on the 4th. 104 degrees with a heat index of I don't know what! When we headed out to watch fireworks from a bridge only a few blocks away, it was still 94 degrees. Did I mention it was hot?


I have to tell you about last Friday. It was even busier and more exciting than I had thought it would be when I posted. First, a friend came over bringing things for a sewing project for S & I for the Republican HQ. Then, one of my best friends called to tell me they weren't out of town and if I wanted to, I could go out to lunch with them. Then some customers of S came to pick up some dresses. And did I mention that during that time we were trying to get the house cleaned? Once I finished cleaning I was scrambling to get my BFs (best friends) birthday present together and wrapped. Headed down the alley to their house. We left in the car and took younger sister with us. Drove to an art gallery to see pictures of the tornado. On the way to the restaurant, the AC in the car quit and it was making strange noises. So, we stopped at their house and switched to the van. Out to eat which was fun. Then went to a book store, then to pick up younger brothers at the farmers market.
I got dropped off at home and the others went home. I heard from younger sister who came to get something that Special Friend was at their house. Hmm, does that mean a ring? Yep!!!! BF2 (My best friends are twins thus the number.) called to say she had said yes!!! So excited for her! After supper we headed down to their house for the surprise birthday get together. :) They were surprised. :) It was a fun, crazy, day. (By the way, BF1 is the one who did the Alphabet book.)


After that busy Friday, Saturday was slow and relaxing.
On Sunday after church I went out to the park with BFs, Special Friend, younger sister and other friend for a photo shoot of the engaged couple. Oh, it was so hot!
Monday evening S and I babysat the kiddos. :) They are fun. It had cooled off enough to let them play outside after supper for 30 minutes.
Tuesday was busy working on the project for HQ.
Independence Day was pretty quiet. No parades, no get togethers, no cookouts, only fireworks at night.
As for yesterday I did normal things.


I have gotten some writing done. Got this story written. :) The idea for it came from a "pretend letter" I had written to a friend several years before. We picked a time in history, created our "families" and wrote letters to each other. Well, I had been wanting to write a 4th of July story, but was having a hard time thinking of what to write, so when I read that letter, I knew I could change it into 3rd person and add a bit here and there to make it more interesting. And I did. I hope you enjoy it.

The Medford's Independence Day

Part 1

    The sun was just peeking above the horizon when Mr. Medford softly awakened his oldest son.
    “Walt,” he whispered, “come on.”
    Sleepily Walter sat up and blinked. Why was Dad waking him so early? Then he remembered. Today was the 4th of July! Suddenly every bit of tiredness fled and he was wide awake. He nodded with a wide grin to his father and slipped out of bed. Pulling his clothes on quietly so as not to wake the two little boys, he stifled a laugh and hurried softly from the room and down to the kitchen.
    “Does Mom know?” he asked in low tones as his father handed him a pot and a large spoon.
    “She will in a few minutes,” Mr. Medford chuckled, looking, Walter thought, like a school boy up to some prank. “We’ll wait until the top of the hour,” Mr. Medford instructed with a whisper.
    All was silent. There was no noise from the bedrooms upstairs, and from the open windows the only sounds were a few birds singing and a cicada or two. All the neighboring houses were dark and still. Only the sound of the seconds ticking away on the clock was to be heard indoors and the two conspirators stood with eyes fastened on the second hand.
    Tick. Tick. Tick.
    Forty-five seconds until the hour.
    Tick. Tick. Tick.
    Thirty seconds. Walter took a good grip on his spoon.
    Tick. Tick. Tick.
    Twenty seconds. Mr. Medford lifted his pot and pan.
    Tick. Tick. Tick.
    Ten seconds left. Walter held his breath.
    Dong! Crash! Bang, crash, clatter, bang, crash!
The noise was almost deafening as father and son beat upon the metal pans with great vigor.
    From upstairs came the thud of pounding feet, the excited sound of voices and soon the entire family came pouring down the stairs to see what all the racket was about.
    “It’s Independence Day!” Mr. Medford exclaimed, stopping his pounding and grinning. “We can’t have you all sleeping late today of all days. This is a gala day. Hurry up everyone! Get dressed and let’s eat breakfast!”
    “You two,” Mrs. Medford laughed, shaking her head at them as she picked up Henry and turned towards the stairs.
    Hardly had the family disappeared back to the upper regions of the house than a knocking was heard on the front door.
    “Lawrence,” someone called, “is everything all right?”
    Mr. Medford flung open the door to see four or five neighbors in bathrobes standing on his porch. “Happy Independence Day! Glorious morning for the 4th, isn’t it? All right? Of course it is. Walt and I were just waking up the family. No use sleeping late on the birthday of our country!”
    With some laughs and good natured grumbling, the startled neighbors returned to their own homes, but it is doubtful if any returned to bed, for their awakening had roused them well.

    After the Medford family finished eating breakfast and had had their family Bible time, Mr. Medford looked about the table. “Mary Rose and Walter, Mr. Glover will be here to pick you up at 10:00 so make sure you are both ready and in costume. Lillian and Alice, you two help your mother get the lunch ready. Helen, can you find the picnic basket and bring down the large blanket?”
    “Sure Daddy,” seven-year-old Helen replied, delighted to be doing something important.
    “Then let’s fall to it,” Mr. Medford stood up.
    Mary Rose, nearly fifteen, hurried to clear off the table so the dishes could be washed quickly. All was flurry and bustle, laughter, and several frantic dashes after Henry who was almost twelve-months old and who kept getting into things. Finally Mr. Medford took him and two-year-old James outside to play with Eve, who was five.
    “Now maybe we can get something done,” Mrs. Medford sighed, pushing back her hair from her face.
    “Mom,” Walter called from the stairs, “I can’t figure out how this thing goes,” and Mrs. Medford hurried out to help.
    When Mr. Glover arrived, both Mary Rose and Walter were ready and they soon departed.
    “I wish I could be in the parade,” Lillian sighed.
    “Next year you will be, most likely,” eleven-year-old Alice assured. “Since Walt is thirteen and next year you’ll be thirteen, I think they’ll want you.”
    Lillian sighed again. “I hope so. But,” she added briskly, “we had better get these things finished so Mama can pack them in the basket.”

    It was nearly 11:00 when the Medford family, with the exception of the two oldest children, found a place to watch the parade. There were the two high school bands, the boy scout troop in the area, veterans from the Great War and even some from the Spanish-American War, the city’s fire engines went by, as did the Mayor in his car. But for most of the Medford children, the floats were the best part. Walter was in the float of George Washington crossing the Delaware while Mary Rose made a lovely Betsy Ross, sewing diligently on a flag for her country. The nearby college had come up with a very creative idea. They represented the history of the United States. Each president was portrayed by a college fellow while other fellows and girls were dressed for events in the nation’s past.
    There was so much excitement and cheering, as at last the end of the parade passed by, that scarcely anyone heard the city bells ringing noon.
    Lunch was eaten by the Medfords under a tree near where they had watched the parade, and there Mary Rose and Walter joined them, still in costume.

    Back at home, Mrs. Medford insisted that everyone take a nap if they wanted to stay up late that night. To this Mr. Medford heartily agreed for, though he had initiated the early rising, all the excitement had made even him tired.
    The quiet of the early afternoon didn’t last more than an hour and a half for the children couldn’t remain quiet any longer. Their backyard, the only one in the neighborhood with a real playground, swings and forts, was the gathering place for every child around and soon the yard was teeming with shouts, laughter and children.

Come back next week to read what happens in the afternoon!

What did you think of this first part?

Would you have liked to watch that parade? I would!