"Mama mallard hurries
her ducklings into the
water and away.
I think you will like
fuzzy ducklings,
coming-soon baby.
It's quiet except for our
paddles. A bald eagle
floats on an updraft and
the tall trees reach for
the sky."
Dad waves from a small cabin on the lake, as mother, child and a teddy bear make their way onto the dock. They are ready to head out for their daily paddle. The child speaks to her teddy as if it is the coming-soon baby her mom is expecting. As they paddle, they take pleasure in the wonders of the natural world that surrounds them.
As they go, the child wonders if the new baby will canoe with them. Mom explains that Dad will care for the baby while the two continue their paddling. In the quiet of the morning, the child is able to share her 'what ifs' ... the concerns she has for how the baby will change life as they now know it. Mom hears her questions and offers positive responses. Yes, she will be tired; it will not change that she loves their canoe trips together.
Reassured, the child takes up her paddle and enjoys the sights and sounds of the lake as they go. There is so much to see. A worry is expressed; what if the baby is like Dad and doesn't like to canoe. So many thoughts as a child awaits new life. Mom lets her know that no matter the differences they face, there will always be the blue canoe, their paddles on the lake, and a chance to be together.
Tranquility is felt at every turn of the page in Ms. Aylesworth's calm natural surroundings. That peacefulness encourages the child to express her thoughts and questions as they paddle.
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