Franklin, Andrew, and Betty Lee

Here is the February Story Card featuring a Japanese Cedar tree.

Chapter One

Franklin reached down and picked up a tiny pinecone from the snow-covered ground. It was still attached to a short, green branch.

Andrew said, “Let’s collect them all into a pile.” Franklin laughed and said, “Yes, a big pile of teeny, tiny pinecones.” The children began their work.

The Japanese Cedar tree stood taller than the house. Betty Lee said, “I can jump as high as this tree!” But when she tried, her boots stayed stuck in the snow. She stumbled and fell down. Her socks got wet right away.

The boys held her hands and together they walked to the back door of the house. Andrew said, “You will feel better soon, little sister. The house is warm and dry.”

They quickly took off their coats and boots, except for Betty Lee, whose boots were still outside in the snow. Mommy helped her to take off her coat because she was too young to do it herself.

Franklin said, “Betty Lee had a problem with her boots.”

Franklin, Andrew, and Betty Lee

Chapter Two

In the morning, Daddy said the family would be taking an adventure to the mountains. It was a long, long drive, but when they arrived, everyone was ready to explore.

They saw crowds of people enjoying the winter day, skiing and sledding. Andrew spied a small, frozen pond. He said, “I know how to ice skate! Let’s go!”

A skiing teacher showed the family how to use the equipment. The children learned the word slope.

Later, inside the chalet, the family stopped at the gift shoppe and bought sweet, little Valentine cards and postcards to take home.

They all drank mugs of hot chocolate; it was Betty Lee’s first time. She asked, “May I have more whipped cream?”

A little later Mommy said, “It’s time to go home now.” One by one they climbed into the car.

The boys fell asleep right away. Then Betty Lee yelled “Uh-oh! No boots.” And sure enough, they were left behind in the snow.

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