"We build our fire close to shore,
toast marshmallows.
Sparks hiss as they hit the dark water.
There's no moon, but millions of stars
shine above.
Why are there more stars here?
Is Grandpa up there?
Can whales see stars?
Are the whales even here?"
It was supposed to be a trip with her beloved grandfather; they were going to embark on an ocean trip together to see the whales. With his death, the planned trip cannot happen. Or, can it? As the little girl and her mother look through Grandpa's things, Mom suggests doing the trip on their own. The little girl is unsure. What will it be like now that Grandpa is gone?
They make a long trip to the ocean, gathering together all they will need. With a rented kayak, they set off. The trip is not without difficult winds and waves; still, it is filled with the wonder of ocean life. Their arrival in a quiet cove allows them to unpack, beach the kayak, and prepare a meal.
Setting up their camp is a reminder of earlier backyard campouts with Grandpa. A fire is built, marshmallows are toasted, and the two are entranced by the many stars in the night sky. There is much to see, but not Grandpa's whales.
""I wish Grandpa were here," I say. "I wish I'd seen a whale."
"Maybe tomorrow.""
Their bedtime conversation is filled with stories and memories, and with many nighttime sounds. A new and unfamiliar one comes from Grandpa's beloved whales ... humpbacks 'breathing in the bay'. Unseen, but definitely there! Breathing with them, the two fall fast asleep and wake to prepare for their return trip.
Though the two can no longer hear ... or see ... the whales, readers can see them floating below the surface in a brilliant final image created by Crystal Smith.
No comments:
Post a Comment