If I Could Wave a Magic Wand and Make a Fantasy Week-

If I could wave a magic wand and make a fantasy week, I would rent some cabins in the wilderness near a tourist town. And fill each one with my family’s love…butterfly kissing cheeks. With all my children and grandchildren happily gathered around. Camp food aromas would fill fresh air, tantalizing and good. We would joyfully sing campfire songs amid giggles and sparks. Talk about the “growing-up” days while warmed by firewood. Each child snuggled under someone’s arm as happy as larks. When darkness came, the moon would shine upon a distant owl. Whip-or-wills would sing their tune; each child’s heart would thrill. We would say prayers as a family thanking God for waterfowl. Together on our beautiful earth, enjoying the quiet still. In cabins nestled under the stars, amid the black of night, Beneath scented cedars and pines, we would dream our souls to sleep. Anticipating sounds of dawn and beautiful mountain sights, I would lie awake and soak it in, remembering sweetness to keep. Awakened by the sounds of dawn and crisp mountain air, I would take my camera for a walk, photographing with flare. In every bit of nature, I would recognize God’s care. Thanking Him for sharing sights of deer, antelope, and bear. When the week was almost gone, we would take a family ride. And go to the nearby tourist town to shop and look around. I would buy each some western clothes, feeling good inside. And tell them I am proud that family love flows unbound. On that last day, while packing up, we would hear waterfalls cascade. All together, my children would work, singing a wilderness song. As I, watching grandchildren, would thank them for good memories made. Then, upon returned to each his home we could carry this dream along. © October 4, 2010 Dane Smith-Johnsen