Scary Snapper
Welcome back to the magical world of the Forest Friends! Tonight, we join our furry and feathered friends for an exciting evening of stargazing and storytelling.
Sage Squirrel had invited all her friends for a special stargazing night. As they gathered under the twinkling sky, Sage’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “Thanks for coming to stargaze with me, friends! Want to hear a spooky story?”
Daisy Deer looked nervous, her big eyes wide. “I don’t know… is it very scary?”
Sage grinned, her fluffy tail twitching. “It’s about… the Snapping Turtle of Shadow Pond!”
Everyone gasped, huddling closer together.
Sage continued, her voice low and mysterious. “They say on nights like this, when the moon is full, you can hear the snap of its jaws in the dark…”
Wisteria Woodduck shivered. “I think I just heard a snap!”
“Legend has it,” Sage went on, “the turtle is as big as a boulder and can swallow a raccoon whole!”
Rascal gulped, his striped tail wrapping around him. “Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea…”
“And if you get too close to the water’s edge… SNAP! You’ll be turtle food!” Sage finished with a flourish.
Daisy squeaked and hid behind Clover Cardinal, trembling.
Clover ruffled her feathers and spoke calmly. “Now, now, Sage. Let’s not get carried away. I’ve met the Snapping Turtle of Shadow Pond.”
Sage’s eyes widened in surprise. “You have?”
Clover nodded wisely. “Yes, and he’s not so scary. He’s just a grumpy old turtle who likes his peace and quiet.”
Rascal peeked out from behind his paws. “Really? He doesn’t eat raccoons?”
Clover chuckled. “No, Rascal. He prefers water plants. If we respect his space, we have nothing to fear.”
Daisy emerged from behind Clover, looking relieved. “That’s a relief! Thanks, Clover.”
Sage smiled sheepishly. “Well, I guess every scary story needs a wise friend to keep things in perspective.”
Everyone laughed and settled back to enjoy the beautiful starry night, feeling safe and happy together.
And so, friends, remember: even the scariest stories can be less frightening when you have good friends to help you see things clearly.
The End
Forest Friends Spooky Weekends
The Forest Friends always know how to have a good time! Come find the surprises they have left for guests who explore Standing Pines during the month of October on our Spooky Weekends!
Family Discussion and Activity Time:
Talk about fears: What makes a story scary? How can we help each other feel less afraid?
Discuss facts vs. fiction: How did Clover’s knowledge help calm everyone down?
Learn about turtles: Research different types of turtles and their habitats.
Create constellation stories: Look at the stars together and make up your own stories about the shapes you see.
Practice calming techniques: Share ways to feel better when you’re scared, like taking deep breaths or thinking happy thoughts.
Remember, it’s okay to feel scared sometimes, but talking with friends and family can help us feel better and learn new things!
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!