Story Time

Every night is story time at the Marshall house.  Bed time is not complete unless there is a book read before sending the kids off to dreamland.  Over the past eight years we have accumulated quite a collection and we are all pleasantly surprised when we discover one that we have never read or have not read in several months.  Last night was one of those occassions.

I pulled Jamberry off the shelf and story time was on.  Ashton was completely enthralled with the story.  The pictures.  Every detail was like uncovering a hidden treasure.

The synopsis of this book is that there is a land that is filled with berries of all kinds.  In this place of fruity grandeur, there are blueberry waterfalls, raspberry skating rinks, strawberry waters and blackberries that fall from the sky.  Definitely the land of plenty.  The most interesting part of the book is the post word from the author.  Bruce Degen wrote this book based on the magical experiences he had berry picking with his grandparents.  Beyond the berry picking and the preserves and baked goods that were made as a result, there was a bond that Degen formed with his grandparents.  One that carried over to his adult life and he funneled these traditions into the lives of his children. 

The tears started to flow from my eyes.  I was immediately transported to my relationship with my Granddad.  It's amazing how something as lighthearted and simple as a children's book can bring you face to face with fond memories of your own childhood.  I vividly remember picking berries with Granddad.  I had the privilege to spend 33 years getting to know him.  Enjoying his companionship.  Forming an unbreakable bond.  It's hard to let that go.  But, I will always treasure the memories.