Sweet Retreat

As dusk settles over Lake Serenity, three of our waterskiing family members are squeezing in one last loop around the lake. As they jet across the warm, soft, twilight lit waters right in front of their brother who's trying to fish, Cate waves to everyone on shore. Nestled under the boughs of the thick forest is her friend and brother’s girlfriend roasting marshmallows over the bright flames of the campfire. Lantern light takes over the setting sun, but none of us sees the creature behind us; a large, hungry black bear emerging from the trees. He followed his nose to our site with the scent of honey graham crackers sitting on a tree stump. Small twigs crack beneath his big paws, drawing my attention. I freeze in surprise, because, well of course it is a bear! But before I call everyone to safety, I notice his big, rounded eyes staring at the box. Will he be content with a belly full of honey grahams? Will Cate and others make it back in time before all of the marshmallows are gone?