Son of Fred -- Early Reader ages 7-9 (Ch. 6)

Chapter Six - Finding a Dad…

Shawn’s trip was something he thought of for awhile. He had to find his dad. He must be lost. He never comes to visit any more.

Then he remembered.

 The last time Shawn received a visit, dad had tears in his eyes. Now he just had to find him.

 Shawn was on a journey of discovery.

 Two ‘flying houses’ watched busy arms slap happily by his sides.

 The boy lifted his head and looked way back. He was sure he could hear his house whisper, "Be careful Shawn. Come home when you are ready. Good luck, Shawn."

He slowly stepped off the swing.

Sneakers got a good grip in the sand. And Shawn seemed taller as he headed into the park woods.

He crossed over rocks in the stream, careful not to get his feet wet. And moved closer to a bridge. 

Something reflected from the water. It was glass. A pop bottle just lay there, waiting for someone to smash it.

He wouldn't let them. “No. No way.” And stooped down to get it.

 "Hey mom, that kid is cleaning up around the creek. Okay if I help him?"

 “Not right now,” Shawn heard the mother say.

 He looked up. Imagine, someone wanted to do something he was doing. Like protecting the earth. It made him feel important. “Good...good.” Dad would be proud of him.

 Now Shawn headed off to Jacob's ladder.

It was one place he wanted to try on his own. 132 wooden steps were built against the rocky hillside. The last time here, his foster parents had to hold his hand.

He had been so afraid.

Now that he was alone, he must climb it himself. "WATCH ME GO, DAD!" he thundered at the sky-full of white clouds.

“Look at me Fred!” he shouted at the first step.

He felt light-headed counting the steps as they headed up. And up. 

Wooden handrails followed him on his journey. No turning back now, was a thought that urged him on. He had to make it on his own.

And he would. He could.

"YES I CAN!" Shawn shouted.

His feet stomped on the stairs. "Noise, noise, I am making noise." And brave feet thumped loudly as he climbed triumphantly.

Imagine, Shawn made it to the top all by himself.

He knew Fred would be so proud.

He was a brave Son of Fred.