Welcome back to the charming world of the Forest Friends! Today, we join Finnegan Fox on an exciting adventure near the new campground. Discover how Finnegan Fox first encountered the gem mining station that families can enjoy today at Standing Pines Campground. This story explains the enchanting backstory behind one of our most popular family activities!
Finnegan’s nose twitched with curiosity as he peeked out from behind a tall pine tree. The humans had left for the day, and now was his chance to investigate the strange new contraption they’d built near the Welcome Center.
“What do you think it is?” whispered Sage Squirrel, who had scampered down from a nearby branch to join her friend.
Finnegan’s golden eyes sparkled with excitement. “I’m not sure, but it looks like water is running through it. Let’s get a closer look!”
The two friends crept cautiously towards the sluice. Water bubbled and gurgled as it flowed down the long, wooden channel. Beside it sat a pile of strange, flat pans.
“Oh my!” exclaimed Finnegan. “I think I know what this is. I once overheard the humans talking about ‘panning for gems’ in a river. This must be something similar!”
Sage’s tail twitched with interest. “Gems? Like the shiny rocks we sometimes see in the forest?”
Finnegan nodded enthusiastically. “Yes! And look, there’s sand and pebbles in the water. You have really good eyes for sparkly stuff. Do you see tiny pieces of quartz hidden in there?”
Sage’s eyes widened in amazement. “Wow, Finnegan! It’s beautiful, just like the ones I heard my grandmother describe from years ago!”
Just then, they heard familiar barking in the distance. Peace and Quiet were on their evening walk with their humans.
“Quick,” said Finnegan. “We should go. But let’s come back tomorrow and tell the others. I’m sure Rascal and Blossom would love to see this!”
As they scurried back into the forest, Finnegan’s mind raced with excitement. He couldn’t wait to share his discovery with all his friends and learn more about this fascinating human activity. In fact, Finnegan thought, this would be perfect for an experiment! He could hide in the bushes and toss some shiny stones in the water.
What would the humans do with their shiny stones? Finnegan thought the answer would tell him a lot about humans!
And friends, Finnegan was right! Did you know that sometimes children would search for shiny stones, then play at the water sluice for a long time, looking for Finnegan’s hiding spot and pouring the water? Humans – such fascinating creatures to study!
Ready to help Finnegan with his experiment? Visit our gem mining station where you can discover sparkling treasures while Finnegan watches from his hiding spot in the mural! Gem mining bags available at the Camp Store for $12.
Look for Finnegan’s bushy red tail peeking from the forest mural – he’s always watching to see what treasures you’ll discover!
The End
—
Family Discussion and Activity Time:
1. Talk about curiosity: Why do you think Finnegan was so interested in the sluice? Is it good to be curious about new things?
2. Discuss responsible exploration: How did Finnegan and Sage explore safely? Why was it important for them to leave when they heard people coming?
3. Learn about crystal panning: Look up videos or books about panning for crystals or minerals. How do people do it, and why?
4. Create a crystal hunt: Hide small, shiny objects or craft crystals in a sandbox or garden. Use sieves or colanders to “pan” for the treasures.
5. Discuss sharing discoveries: Why do you think Finnegan wanted to tell his other friends about what he found? When have you been excited to share something new with your friends or family?
Remember, it’s always important to be safe and respectful when exploring new things, just like Finnegan and Sage!
—
The Forest Friends stories are written by Amy Bashor. All rights reserved. © 2024
Want to experience more Forest Friends adventures? Come visit us at Standing Pines campground, where the charm of these stories comes to life!
