Uninvited Picnic Guest

Uninvited Picnic Guest By Dane Smith-Johnsen One sunny day, perfect for a picnic, Across the street from shaded woodland trails, Mom, two friends, and we kids had a picnic. All were enjoying fun beside the lake. We girls were sharing our deepest secrets. Whispering, giggling eleven year olds. Our brothers had been running around. Trying to get in on the snickering. We shooed them away to find their own fun! Girl-talk was strictly that back in those days. The boys ran over to the waters edge. Skipping rocks to see who was number one! Both boys were skilled rock skippers. Oh, what fun! We decided to give it a try, too. It was fun, but the boys liked it better. We joined Mom around the barbecue grill. It wasn't long before rock skipping stopped. The boys tried to see who had the best aim. So, they threw rocks at a log in the lake. They were both pretty good shots. Suddenly, Mom screamed, “Run! Go climb a tree!” We didn't know why, but four children ran! Brave Mom stood, squared off staring at the log. Looking back, we could see the “logs'” two eyes. Mom and the gator, motionless, glaring, It was a duel of stares we kids watched. Our hearts were thumping, seeing her there. Mom eaten by a gator was my fear. Time seemed endless as she retained her ground. Up on his legs to take a better look. Dead silent children felt the air of fright. Would we go home with our mom tonight? Then the alligator began to move. Step by step he at the edge of the lake. Slowly, deciding, he made his first move. One step back and he sunk beneath the tarn. Hallelujahs, Mom won. And we went home!