The summer continued on , hot , humid , and sticky . Though a lot of things had been happening , everyone was still talking about the Fourth of July picnic . It had been the best ever . Even the parents were raving about the light show . The planners had truly outdone themselves . " Oh , Mom , please , do you have to remind me of that ? " Rachel returned , with chagrin . " I don 't want to think about that yet ! " " Oh , I think Caroline is having a slumber party next weekend , " Rachel lamented . " I 'm sure she 'll invite me . I can 't miss it ! It 'll be the best ever ! " " Yay ! Let me have it ! " I wonder who else she 's invited ? " Rachel exclaimed , nearly breathless . " I 'm sure she 'll invite Sarah - and maybe Daniela . " The next week was chock full of exciting conversations , shopping and planning , and impatient waiting . The days seemed so long for all the girls , especially Sarah . She had finally admitted to Rachel that she had never been to a slumber party . Finally , Friday came . Caroline had been scurrying around the house , helping her mom get things ready . Her grandma had come to get Emily and Chance , so that the girls could have the house to themselves . Caroline 's mother was busy in the kitchen , preparing food , and , of course , baking a delicious chocolate cake . They had discussed having a theme for the party , maybe princesses or something . Caroline had declined . She thought she was getting too old for such a theme . After all , she was turning twelve ! Rachel and Sarah arrived first , exactly on time . Then , a couple of other girls from the church , Amanda and Lilly came . Daniela , of course , arrived last , " fashionably late . " The girls whispered and giggled through the hamburgers , chips , and soda . They devoured the chocolate cake in nearly seconds . They laughed over boys , things at church , and stuff at school . Caroline 's mom watched from the kitchen doorway , smiling . She was very happy for Caroline . This was the first slumber party her father had ever allowed her to have . Next , the girls moved to the living room to open birthday presents . Everyone was happy and excited for Caroline to open her gifts . They all knew she had really looked forward to this very special day . All the girls were anxious for Caroline to open their gift first . She finally began , among the squeals , to open each one . There was an art set Everyone laughed . Daniela would normally annoy everyone with such a statement , but today it was just funny . The next couple of hours were full of games , laughter , silly jokes , and Rice Krispies treats . Caroline 's mom had rented a movie for the girls to watch at bedtime . Of course , everyone knows there is no " bedtime " at slumber parties . They " tried " to watch it , but all they did was laugh and tell silly stories - forever . " I 'm so sorry , Caroline . Your dad is drinking . He said the girls are too loud . They have to go home - - right now . " Caroline hardly came out of her house for two weeks . Her brother , Chance , told everyone that she wasn 't feeling well , but all the girls knew the truth . She was embarrassed . If it was up to Daniela , all the boys would know , too - for that matter - the entire neighborhood . However , Rachel and Sarah had pretty much threatened her life . Having a drunken father was bad enough - but having everyone know was unthinkable . Rachel tried to call her a number of times , but she wouldn 't come to the phone . She and Sarah had knocked on the door two or three times , but she wouldn 't come out . Finally , one Saturday morning , Rachel and Sarah went out to ride their bikes . To their amazement , Caroline was sitting on her porch with Emily . " Come on , Em , let 's play , " he called to Emily . They both left the porch and went out in the yard . He threw the ball to her , and she rolled it back , giggling . Chance and Emily walked around to the back yard to look for butterflies . Their mom sat on the back steps , sipping tea . She looked tired and distracted . She smiled weakly as she watched four - year - old Emily trying to catch a little yellow butterfly . She stirred her tea , and looked down at the ground for a long time . " Look , Mommy , I brought you some flowers , " smiled little Emily , with her soft brown eyes shining with delight . " Look , one is yellow , and one is puffy . " She proceeded to hand over a set of dandelions to her mother . The monkey bars were full . The swings were all occupied . The slides had lines waiting . A few mothers were encouraging the kids to move along and give others a turn . A few dads were playing catch with their sons . With Sarah leading the way , the girls raced around the perimeter of the park . They passed the swings , the teeter - totter , the monkey bars and the slides . They passed kids and pets , moms and dads , balls and bikes . Laughing , and out of breath , they ended up at the swings again . It was Sunday again . Everyone filed into the church , most choosing their normal seats that they had occupied for months , or even years . A few shook hands and said hello . The musical instruments were still being tuned . The ushers were getting organized , getting offering containers ready , and showing a few visitors to their seats . The service began at exactly 11 : 00 . The pastor was always prompt , even when others weren 't . The choir began their " call to worship " song , standing ever so straight in their beige and burgundy robes . Mrs . Anderson , with her little round spectacles , stared too closely to the choir book . Mr . Benson , hunched over a bit , smiling happily , as he sang off key . They sang through the rest of the song , and began the next . The congregation seemed to listen contently , some participating , some nodding approval . All the kids were sitting together today , on row four . They had been closer this summer than they had been in a very long time . Even Bryan and Daniela had moved up to join them . They were all even trying to sing the songs , in between smiles and a few embarrassed snickers . The back door opened softly and closed again . Caroline , Emily , Chance , their mom , and surprisingly , their dad , slipped quietly into the back row . Their father , feeling somewhat conspicuous , sat down . He looked around sheepishly , and kept his eyes lowered . The rest of the family , used to being in church , stood to sing the songs . Caroline 's mom , feeling nervous about the whole situation , turned to Emily . She leaned down and whispered in her ear . A few people stared at the small commotion . Some smiled , meaning it was o . k . The service continued . The youth pastor stepped to the pulpit to make the announcements . A ball game was coming up this Saturday for the youth group . The kids all looked at each other , wishing they were old enough to play in the game . Rachel glanced back to the row that Caroline 's family was sitting on . She gave Caroline a slight smile and a bit of a wave . It made Caroline feel much better . She smiled back , ever so tiny a smile . After a few comments and words of welcome to the visitors , the pastor began the morning message . Most of the people settled in to listen for the next half an hour or so . It seemed like hours to the kids , but they tried to sit as quietly as they could . On the back row , Caroline 's mother was trying to listen - in between trying to keep Emily quiet - and worrying about how her husband was reacting to the sermon . He mostly seemed like he wasn 't listening at all . She tried to hold his hand . He would not let her . Instead , she took hold of Chance 's hand . And Caroline 's . Emily sat quietly on her lap , looking from one parent to the other . Her dad looked away , a tear beginning to form in his eye and roll down his cheek . After an eternity , the pastor was bringing the sermon to a close . The kids were glad - they were getting hungry . They were beginning to whisper , and stir a bit . " Sh - h - h , " one of the older ladies gave them a stare . The congregation was standing to their feet quietly , heads bowed . Music was playing softly . The pastor was asking for those who needed help to come forward . His plea seemed to go unheeded . After what seemed like forever , Caroline 's dad stepped out into the aisle . He solemnly walked the long journey to the front of the church . He began to talk with the pastor , then cry , then pray . Most people had left , or were in the process of leaving church for the day . The kids were talking among themselves , making plans for the next few days . They turned to go out the side door . They noticed that Mrs . Smith 's boy , Kevin , was sitting on the front row , head bowed . Everyone was disturbed and perturbed at the confession of Kevin and his hot - rodding friends . Apparently , they had been racing . They had started at the high school , and ended up on the street in front of Sam 's house . Kevin was a good boy , but his friends were not the type to keep you on the " straight and narrow . " His mother , a teacher at the high school , was always lecturing him on his friends and church . Though he was mostly inclined to listen , his friends kept him on the edge of trouble . His father had left the family when Kevin was seven . He reacted badly for a couple of years , but then seemed to settle down . He began to do well in school , making good grades and participating in extracurricular activities . By age ten or eleven , he was very involved in sports . Baseball had come first . By age twelve , he was in " all stars " … pitcher , no less . The last few years , he was involved in soccer … all the rage in Briarwood . That 's why everyone was surprised and concerned to hear of his involvement in the death of Sam 's dog , Sandy . His mother was crushed when she heard about it . She had chided him again and again about his friends . He had been attending the Briarwood church for a few years , but was never interested in truly becoming a part . Last Sunday , the sermon seemed to really connect with his heart and mind . Mostly , he had been feeling guilty about hitting Sandy . He had wanted to tell someone ever since it happened . His friends had told him not to worry about it . After all , they said , it was just a dog . " Listen , man . I need a pitcher for the church baseball team . As you probably know , the first game is this Saturday , " Pastor Tim continued . " No , I guess I don 't . I don 't think you should quit something you commit to , " Kevin said . For a moment he was thinking that he sounded just like his mother . " Fantastic , man . We practice today at 4 : 00 . It 's too hot before that , " Pastor Tim added . " Meet us behind the church . " The day seemed endless . Kevin was fretting , worrying , thinking , avoiding the phone - could hardly eat - and he loved to eat ! Finally , it was time to go to the church . Kevin was excited … and somewhat nervous . He was sure that some of his friends would show up - probably to make fun of him . Somehow , he didn 't care . The church could not afford formal uniforms . They were to wear jeans and white T - shirts . He dressed as carefully as though he was in the major league . He fixed his hair perfectly , and drove to the church . As soon as he had got in the car - the car that had hit Sandy - and started driving to the church , he knew it was the best decision that he had ever made . He knew his life was about to make a turn for the better . When he pulled into the church parking lot , his heart nearly stopped beating . There were cars and people everywhere ! Kevin walked to the ballpark behind the church . People were streaming from their cars , heading toward the bleachers . Excitement was definitely in the air . Long lines were at the concession stands . Hot dogs and colas were being sold to help the youth department . There were also long lines at the bleachers . Everyone wanted a good seat . " No , it 's fine . They are just overly anxious . This team is everything to them , " Pastor Tim said with some seriousness in his voice . " They are just simple guys . They haven 't had as much experience as you have . Try to be patient with them . " The other team from the church across town had just arrived . They were hitting balls to each other behind the bleachers . They seemed very confident . They even had real uniforms . They might be a force to be reckoned with . Kevin swallowed hard . " Great , " he was thinking , " a real team , and I 'm playing with a bunch of church kids . " The first inning began and ended - nothing to nothing . It seemed as though everyone was still trying to " warm up . " The second inning brought a little more " life " to the game . The crowd began to perk up a bit , and actually pay attention . Halfway through the second inning , the other team had two runs and two outs . The church team had nothing ! Kevin was not too concerned … yet . However , he called the team together . They reluctantly came over to where he stood , glancing at each other questioningly . Their eyes were saying , " Who is this guy , and why is he telling us what to do ? " Instinctively , Pastor Tim intervened . " Hey , guys , this game 's going great ! You are doing a super job ! Now , I want you to listen to Kevin . He 's had a lot of experience . He wants to take us over the top ! " Pastor Tim implored , hoping for some cooperation . " Well , I don 't consider myself as a star . I just want to play ball - and I want to win this game , " Kevin explained . " Now , I 'd like to rearrange things a bit . OK ? " " Well , there are no guarantees , but if we do our best … and have good sportsmanship … God can help us , " Kevin answered . He felt pretty stupid even saying that . Yet , again , in his heart of hearts , he knew it was true . He put Steve on first base . Todd was ordered to second , Josh to third , and Chris to shortstop . The rest of the guys were to play outfield . The next few innings came and went , with some struggles , as the guys were feeling out their new places . They were determined to stick with it . At the end of inning five , the score was 7 to 5 , the other team still ahead . Innings six and seven were better for the church team . The boys seemed to be gaining confidence . Todd and Chris had scored runs , bringing the score to a tie , 7 to 7 . In inning eight , the other team seemed to get a little nervous . They never expected any competition . Steve was up to bat . He and Kevin caught eyes . Kevin 's look said , " You can do it . " It seemed like the rain would never end in Briarwood … ever since the night of the ballgame . The storm had begun right around the time that Steve had hit a home run - right over the fence . Everyone had left the field in a mad dash for their cars and the church building . There was also a storm brewing over the score … 8 to 7 . The other team said that they did not forfeit the game . The church team said that the rain had ended the game - score final . Youth Pastor Tim said that the team would set a better example by not arguing over the score or the game . Most of the boys informed him that they weren 't arguing - they simply had won the game . The other team wanted a rematch - it would have to wait until after the storm . There had been terrible thunder and lightning the first few days , now there was mostly a constant drizzle . The streets were full of puddles - the yards were a soggy mess . It was hard to get out to go anywhere . Some people said that the storm was the outskirts of a hurricane . It seemed like an adventure to the kids . To the adults , it was torture . Tree limbs were all over the yards . Bryan 's yard had a palm tree down . It had just missed his dad 's new car . Rachel , Sarah , and Caroline were glad that their street was not affected as badly . They had been dying for several days to get out of the house - to get together . The electricity had been off and on , and the telephones had been down some . Rachel had tried to call Sarah a " million " times . They were right next door , but it was raining too hard to go to her house . Go to Caroline 's ? Forget it - the streets were full of water . They were all bored and lonely . Mrs . Griffith had gone to live with her daughter up north . She was afraid of the storms . Last year , there had been five - three were severe . The church had opened its doors to anyone in areas prone to flooding . At least fifty people had spent a few nights there . Rachel 's mother had gone to help at the church with the families that had to evacuate . The church van had come to pick her up , because the family cars were too small to go through the water in the streets . Rachel worried about her - she had been gone for two days . They had communicated as much as they could - with the busyness of the situation - and the power outages . Her mom told stories of whole families on quilts and mats , eating cold bologna sandwiches and cereal out of small individual boxes with skim milk shipped in by trucks . All of their pets had to be left behind . It had made Rachel sad , and made her lonelier than ever . " OK … how about if we invite a couple of your friends over - don 't worry - I will go and get them . We 'll make some tacos … or something … and you girls can do … uh … whatever it is you do … to have fun . Then I will take them back home again . It 's only next door and across the street , " Dad smiled a little bigger this time . The plan was made , and after numerous tries , they got through to Caroline 's and Sarah 's houses . Rachel 's dad had put on his big fishing boots and a raincoat , and had trudged through the water in the street . The water was halfway up the boots . Caroline was ready , and was truly excited . She climbed on his back , and rode " piggyback " all the way to Rachel 's house A firetruck drove past Rachel 's house … then an ambulance . With all the water in the streets , they seemed to drive slower than usual . Through phone calls from some of the neighbors , they learned that the cause of the fire was candles being burned in lieu of electricity . It had been hit or miss since the storm began . The family had escaped to the next door neighbor 's house , but all else seemed to be lost - engulfed in flames ! The firetruck screeched to a halt in front of Matt 's house . The firemen jumped out of the truck , grabbing hoses on the way . Water began to flood the house , from nearly every angle . The rain , thank God , was pouring down . Everyone was sick of the rain , but , right now , it was greatly needed . After about an hour , the fire seemed to abate . The rain had lessened , and people had moved to the street to watch the drama . It seemed like scores of dark umbrellas lined the streets . Why was fire such a calling card ? Rachel had begged and pleaded until her dad had consented to drive the girls over to Matt 's street - the street with the fire . Caroline 's dad rode along . He did not want Caroline going without him . He seemed to care more about the kids since he started going to church . He had even started helping with the boy 's group that met on Thursday nights . The church leaders were willing to help train him . His son , Chance , and Sarah 's brother , Roger , were attending the class - and loving it . There were opportunities to earn badges , and they were planning a camping trip when the weather cooled off - maybe October . He was even helping the church with a fundraiser to raise money for some uniforms . A car wash had been in the works when the storm began . During the training , the leaders discovered that Mr . Howard had been a Marine and knew a lot about the outdoors - making fires , tying knots , and all the things that the program required . They were all very excited - especially the boys . The plan was to expand the groups to include some of the older boys . John was anxious to begin the older group . He wanted to invite his friends from church and school … hoping something fun would entice them to join . He had mentioned it to Bryan recently . Bryan thought it sounded rather lame . " Well , maybe … but we 'll get to go on camping trips . We 'll learn about making fires … safely , of course , and using knives . It will be really neat , " John came back at him . The umbrellas were slowly disappearing , as a somber mood came over the group of neighbors . The ones who had stayed stood quietly , staring at the embers . Rachel and Caroline went to stand by Matt and his family . He seemed a little happier knowing that they were there . Everyone was happy , though . The storms had died down , and Matt 's cat was safe . On the night of the fire , he was thought to be inside the burning house . Matt had been very upset about his home , but was distraught over the idea that his pet was somewhere inside there … helpless . The next day , a fireman and an inspector had come to view the damage and the remainder of the burned building . They needed to inspect the rubble , and decide what was the official cause of the fire . They scoured the entire house … what was left of it … for clues . They searched each and every room , one by one , inch by inch . It was finally decided , for sure , that a small candle , burned during the storm for light , was the cause . The fireman and the inspector stood under a tree in the front yard of Matt 's house . They were busy writing up the report regarding the cause of the fire . They began to look around . They looked through the hedge in front of the house - nothing . Then , it seemed like the tiny noise was coming from the garbage can . The inspector lifted the lid , fully expecting to find " something . " Nothing . He was ecstatic ! He had never been so happy ! When he found out , he squeezed him and kissed him , and thanked the fireman over and over . School was starting soon , and everyone dreaded it . Sixth grade was going to be much more difficult … more homework … more reports … more social issues . Homework … they knew all about homework . School began on September 7 . Though tired from their lazy summer schedule , everyone seemed to arrive early . New supplies filled all the backpacks , also new . There was something about getting new things - exciting - refreshing . The air was " bubbling " with excited voices - old friends reuniting after several months of play and vacation . A new school year will be as wonderful as it will be demanding . The girls were worried about clothes ; the boys were concerned about bikes , backpacks , and sports . Sam hoped to get on the soccer team . John planned to try out for football . The only girl interested in " sports " was Daniela . She wanted to try out for cheer - leading . She would make a perfect cheerleader . She had blond hair , blue eyes , and was constantly " squealing " about something ! Bryan and Daniela sported obvious new " duds . " Caroline had gotten her long , auburn hair cut to shoulder length . It was a big change for her . Everyone else looked pretty much the same . " Oh , good grief ! " Bryan blurted out . " I think you should wear whatever kind of hair you want . I 'm thinking about putting some blue or orange in my hair … what do you think ? " " Yeah , that 's cool … maybe I 'll do green , " Sam retorted sarcastically . All the girls laughed . Everyone laughed when Sam spoke . After all , he was the cutest guy in the school … and the sweetest . The bell rang , but everyone kept talking . They were too excited about the first day of school , and getting to all be together , to settle down . They kept laughing and sharing funny stories . They didn 't even notice when the door to the classroom opened . There was a sound of someone clearing their throat . No one really paid attention . It happened again . " Excuse me , students , " the principal began . There stood the strangest - looking man . " Oh , my gosh , Mom ! It 's late ! Why didn 't you wake me up earlier ? I 'm going to be late ! " Her mother smiled and shut the door . Daniela searched her top drawer frantically . Her ticket had to be in there somewhere . You can 't be in the contest without the ticket ! To her great dismay , it was not there ! She ran to the closet , her next option . She rummaged through her coat pockets , her jeans . . . anything she could think of . Nothing ! She slammed the closet door in exasperation , and sat on her bed . She wished that she wasn 't so disorganized . " Oh , my gosh ! I have to hurry ! " she exclaimed under her breath . " I have to get there before Rachel . . . and Sarah , and Caroline . . . and . . . well , everybody ! " " Mother , you just don 't get anything ! " Daniela exclaimed , as she ran out the door . " I just have to win ! " The door slammed loudly as she took off down the sidewalk . " I 'm not taking any chances ! " she exclaimed , as she ran on down the street . She turned the corner again , passing Bryan 's house . He was getting into his dad 's car . " You want a ride ? " he asked , as she ran by . " Nope . See you there , " she said , as she disappeared down the sidewalk . He shrugged his shoulders , and got into the car . The principal was just coming to the microphone , tapping it to see if it was on . Bryan and Daniela rolled their eyes . The principal , Mr . Sanders , introduced Mr . Belvedere , the school 's new sixth grade teacher . Clearing his throat , Mr . Belvedere began , " Students , good morning . Thank you for coming out on a Saturday morning . I 'm sure you would rather be sleeping ! " All the kids laughed , and nodded in agreement . A few elbowed their neighbor . " Well , now , " he continued . " Get out your tickets . We will begin the selection . " Several weeks had passed since the big contest at the school . Daniela was avoiding everyone . She had had the winning ticket , but she had rushed out of the house without it . That was the story of her life … a pretty , disorganized mess . Sarah 's mother had been sick again . The family was worried , as always . No one really knew how much longer her mother could live . She was sick so often . Although Daniela was very aggravated at herself , she was happy for Sarah and her family . The prize was a weekend at Disney World . No one was more deserving than Sarah and Roger ! Everyone was happy for them . A few business people in town had donated money for gas and a hotel . The family had left for a trip of a lifetime . Everyone in town was excited , and a good number of people came out to see them off . The raffle had been a great success . It had raised needed funds for the library and the city park . It had also given a family something they would only have dreamed about . Rachel was lonely while Sarah was gone , but she and Caroline kept busy . They had been friends long before Sarah had moved to Briarwood . They used to be together so often that people referred to them as the " twins . " They were rarely seen apart , except when they were asleep . They went bike riding every day . They went to the park . They did their homework together . They walked to Sam 's house after school to hang out . They baked cookies on Saturday morning … anything they could think of to make the days pass by . Nothing they did seemed to work . The days loomed ahead endlessly . " What did we do before Sarah moved to Briarwood ? " Caroline asked , aimlessly , one afternoon , as they lay on the living room rug doing their homework . Sam aced it , of course , and Caroline seemed to understand it somewhat . It went right over Rachel 's head . Sarah hated math , but she was fun and cheery , and made Rachel keep up her work . When she was tired and bored , and had no motivation at all , Sarah had a way of pulling work out of her . Rachel had stopped doing math , and was drawing little circles on the sides of the paper . " You better at least try , Rachel . Homework counts a lot on your math grade , " chided Caroline . " Let 's forget this for a while , " Rachel said , barely able to talk after laughing hysterically . " Let 's go for a walk or something , " added Caroline . They went out the front door , glad to be in the fresh air . " What ? Slow down there , Rachel , " Mom said . " Where did you hear such news ? " " Everyone is talking about it ! I 'm serious , Mom . Isn 't that the most wonderful news you ever heard ? " Rachel clamored on . She was talking mostly to herself , as she disappeared back out the front door , down the walk , and across the street to Caroline 's house . She had not been gone more than five minutes , when there was a knock on the door . " Hi , Mrs . Simms , " Sarah uttered , somewhat breathlessly . " I need to talk to Rachel right away ! Is she at home ? " " She just left … went across the street to Caroline 's , I imagine , " Rachel 's mother commented . " I have the most wonderful thing to tell her ! " Sarah added , as she turned to go . " Bryan 's getting a new horse ! " Sarah and Mrs . Simms said at the same time . They both started to laugh . Smiling , Sarah headed down the walk and across the street . " Do you know the news ? " both of them exclaimed at the same time . " Yes ! That 's what I came to tell you ! My brother heard the boys talking about it down at the park . Isn 't it amazing ? Do you think he will let us ride it ? That would be so great ! " Sarah was more excited than the girls had ever seen her . " I 'll be happy just to pet it ! " Caroline said , still practically hopping around her yard . Her brother , Chance , and her little sister , Emily , slammed through the screen door . They had heard the squeals , and could not wait to see what all the excitement was about . " What 's going on , Caroline ? What are you so happy about ? Did we win a trip to Disney World like Sarah and Roger ? Tell us , Sis ! " Chance and Emily ran around the yard , laughing and begging to know the news . " Well , it 's not a secret , " Sarah said . " Everyone at the park knows … they were all talking about it this morning . He has begged his dad for at least a year . He was always getting in trouble , so his dad wouldn 't do it . " " Yeah , he can never get along with anybody ! " said Caroline . " Sometimes I just want to smack him ! " Everyone burst into hearty laughter . " Me and everybody else , " Caroline smiled . " I know … I see them all the time . Bryan is at all the kid stuff . He does seem a lot nicer , " commented Sarah . " Maybe God fixed him . " They all laughed again . " Well , I guess his dad sees the change , too . Otherwise , I don 't suppose he would have given in and let him get the horse , " Caroline added quietly . Then , more seriously , " I remember when my dad went to church the first time . He was really nervous . But I was really happy about it . Our family has been so much better since that day . I hardly ever see my mom cry now . He is so nice to Chance and me . Before , he only was nice to Emily . " The mood had changed from excitement to quiet and somber . " Well , umm . . . I wonder what color the horse is , " Sarah commented , interrupting the somber mood . " A black horse would be absolutely stunning ! " " Yeah , kinda like in the movies , racing across a meadow , with the sun shining behind him , " said Rachel , dreamily . " Rachel , you are so dramatic ! " Sarah added , while at the same time letting her mind picture such a fine animal . As they chatted happily about how wonderful horses are , and how they would each love to have one , no one noticed Bryan walking toward them grinning from ear to ear . " I want you all to meet Snowflake . " School had been in session for two weeks and everyone was settling in . The summer had been the shortest they had ever remembered . It had been short and hot , and school had not been on anyone 's radar … but it had begun , ready or not . Caroline and Sam both had had birthdays . Most of the kids were twelve now and felt quite " grown up . " They had all slowly , but surely , eased into the technology stage , some competing for the most in quantity and some competing for the most expensive or most modern . Daniela and Bryan , of course , had everything . Sarah 's family seemed to always have financial difficulties . Her mother 's medical bills were high , and her dad was the only employed parent . He tried his best to get things that he felt was needed and necessary … food , school clothes , shelter … but not many extras . Most of the time , Sarah was understanding . It was hard for her at school , however , when everyone seemed to have ways to go on the internet . During geography class , while most of the students were using tablets to look up their maps , she had to rely on the class atlas to find her answers . Caroline would help her whenever she could , and also Rachel , but they had their own maps to do . Daniela and Bryan had plenty of electronic choices , but were not into sharing at all . Rachel had planned on one last slumber party before school began , but the summer had come and gone too fast . Her mom had agreed that she could just invite Caroline and Sarah . Roger and Chance had complained because the girls were having a party . Rachel 's mother had promised that very soon they could have a special activity just for them . That seemed to help … at least for the moment . " Do you think I should try out for cheerleader ? " Rachel asked her two close friends . She knew she wanted to , and probably would , even if they didn 't encourage her to . It was just a matter of conversation . " Well , you know who will be competing against you , " Sarah commented . Rachel barely glanced her way , but nodded slightly . Sarah squeezed her hand . " What if we help you practice ? " Caroline sat up straight , with a little spark of excitement in her voice . It sounded like so much fun all of a sudden . " Yeah , that 's what we should do ! " Sarah said . " We have lots of days before the try - out . We can practice every afternoon . I have to help around the house in the mornings . I have to help my mom . " " Ok . Let 's have the party on Saturday , and start extra early so we can practice some cheers . I know a couple of good cheers . Do you know any ? " asked Rachel . " Yes ! " Caroline and Sarah both yelled out at the same time . Saturday couldn 't come fast enough for the three best friends . That 's all they could think of or talk about . Roger invited Chance over to spend the night , so that made both boys happy . Everything seemed to be working out perfectly . At 3 : 00 on the dot , the doorbell rang , and two anxious girls stood at the door , grinning from ear to ear . They didn 't have far to go , so it was easy to be on time . Sarah walked across the lawn from right next door , and Caroline walked across the street . " Hi ! We 're here ! " both girls said almost with a squeal . They disappeared inside . The afternoon was packed full of cheerleading practice , jokes and laughter , and lots of snacks . They mostly laughed their way through the cheers , but Rachel had never been more serious about anything . The hours flew by , faster than they would have liked . They tried not to talk about school , but it was impossible to avoid . The best part was that their friends are there . Everything else , they just endure . Rachel was participating , as always , but was thinking of other things . Today was the day . She had been practicing nearly every day with Caroline and Sarah . They had gone on line and downloaded numerous cool cheers to discuss , practice , and decide which was best to choose . " Rachel . . . sit down , " Sarah whispered . Everyone was staring , trying not to laugh . Mr . Belvedere , though loved by the students , was strict in class , and would not put up with any foolishness . Even Bryan and Daniela did not dare to react . " Oh , excuse me , " Rachel said when she realized she was the only one still standing . Rachel was not one to easily get embarrassed . Her mind was too preoccupied to give it much thought . Rachel thought she saw a tiny bit of a smile on Mr . Belvedere 's face , too . She straightened up her history book and her papers , and became engrossed in her work . This was going to be a long chapter , so she knew she needed to get busy . She didn 't mind too much because it was about one of her favorite subjects . . . the Civil War . Today was about Robert E . Lee , one of her favorite generals . She was confident she would know all of the answers . Mr . Belvedere noticed , also , and cleared his throat as a little reminder to Bryan to stop . Mr . Belvedere had just come to the school this year , a veteran teacher , but new to Briarwood . He had such a quaint , funny look that the kids laughed at the sight of him . He was small built , too , not much taller than the bigger boys . Of course , some of the more rowdy boys had tried to get away with some bad behavior . Mr . Belvedere was not having any of that . Those boys were quickly put in their place , and never tried anything again . Now , he was loved and appreciated , and everyone cooperated . . . and wanted to . Rachel was supposed to be making a list of the generals and the important battles , but in her head she was practicing the cheers . She was trying to remember the words to the two she liked the best . The class seemed to be lasting forever . She normally loved this class , but she was just too distracted today . She continued with her list , knowing that Mr . Belvedere would be asking for it at the end of class . Finally , the bell rang . . . Rachel stood and moved toward the front of the class , more like a robot than a live girl . Caroline and Sarah followed close behind , looking at each other and back again at Rachel . They didn 't speak , so as not to disturb Rachel 's " mood . " The day proceeded much the same . During lunch , Rachel stirred her food around with her fork absentmindedly . She barely took a bite . She sipped her apple juice a little , but that 's all she could do . Caroline interrupted the situation . " Rachel , do you want to talk ? Do you want to go over the cheers again ? We 'll be happy to help you . " Rachel looked her way , but did not answer . She took another sip of her juice and got up . Another class was about to begin . They walked slowly toward biology class around the corner from the lunchroom . " Do you have your homework , Rachel ? " Caroline questioned . Rachel glanced her way , but did not answer . They walked a little farther , then Rachel stopped . " Why does Sarah have to ride with us , Mom ? " Daniela complained vehemently . " I already told you , Daniela . Sarah 's mom can 't go out of town right now . You already know it 's an out - of - town game . It 's only right that we give her a ride to the game since we are going anyway , " Daniela 's mother replied . " It 's embarrassing to me . It 's bad enough that she 's a cheerleader now . Good grief . Can 't a girl get a break around here ? " Daniela stomped up the stairs to her room . She flopped onto her pink comforter , and buried her head in her pillow . " Mylife is horrible , " she was thinking . " How is your mother feeling today , Sarah ? " Daniela 's mother asked politely . She already knew the answer , but Daniela was making no attempt to communicate . " If she rests throughout the day , she seems fine . " Sarah was weary some days to answer questions about her mother . This had been going on now for several years . She never knew from week to week how things were going to be . After what seemed like an hour , they pulled into the parking lot of Cummingsburg Elementary . In her old town , sixth grade had been grouped with junior high . It made her feel silly to say she was still in elementary school . At least this was the last year . At least she had made the cheerleading squad . She had wanted so much for her friend , Rachel , to try out . She was too nervous and felt sick . Sarah had told her she shouldn 't have practiced so much . She told her she was going to be too tired . She reminded her to eat some lunch that day . " Can you come on already ? " Daniela was demanding . She shut the door hard . It caught her cheerleader skirt and tugged her backward . She wobbled a bit , and opened the door again . Sarah looked away , trying not to smile . Everyone was piling out of the car , interrupting her thoughts . She was actually nervous now , too , thinking about cheering in front of strangers . She straightened up her new uniform , proud for a quick moment . Rachel and Caroline had given their allowance for a whole month to help her get her outfit . Dad had said that he couldn 't afford it , with Mom 's medicine and doctor bills . He said he would do what he could . Sam 's mother let her help around the house to earn some of it , and Sam had mowed yards and had given her the money . Sarah loved her friends so much . Inside the gymnasium was so loud ! Sarah 's thoughts would have to wait . There seemed like a thousand people ! Boys were running around on the court , warming up . Their tennis shoes were making loud , squeaky sounds , as they raced around , bouncing basketballs , passing to their teammates , trying to throw the balls into the net . . . it suddenly became so exciting to her ! As she took her place in the bottom row of the stands , she saw Sam , Matt , and Bryan . They smiled as they raced around the court , ever mindful of the coach 's watchful eye . He was yelling directions left and right . Matt was terrific at sports , and , of course , after a dribble or two , jumped high and bounced it off the backboard . It slid right into the basket . The crowd roared . " Wake up , everyone ! Someone special is here for a visit ! " Sarah 's dad said with a wink , as he opened the bedroom doors one at a time . Roger moaned and covered his head with a blanket . Sarah turned over with her face toward the wall . A tear formed in one eye . It felt warm as it rolled down her cheek . She knew what it meant when Aunt Ethel came to visit . It was a terrible signal that her mom was worse . She lay there as long as she dared , without her dad returning to remind her again . Aunt Ethel came last year for two weeks . It seemed like two months . Sarah had had to stay inside a lot , and help with things around the house . She had really missed seeing Rachel and Caroline . They came by often , but she couldn 't go out to play much . She sighed as she thought about that time . Her mother had been in the hospital the whole time . . . two whole weeks … two weeks with Aunt Ethel 's cooking . Two whole weeks with Aunt Ethel 's chattiness . Two whole weeks with Aunt Ethel 's stories . She sighed again , as she rolled over and let her leg hang over the bed . She had to do this one step at a time . " Roger , are you getting up ? " she could hear her dad say . She knew by heart how loud the steps were as they got closer to her door . Just before his hand touched the door handle , she sat up . How can she feel sad and Aunt Ethel always seemed so happy . Dad says it is because she is a church - goer . . . " that 's how they are , " he would say . That didn 't seem like a bad thing to Sarah . . . to feel happy . She didn 't really feel happy most of the time . Only Rachel and Caroline made her feel like a somewhat happy person . She knew she had to go out there soon . She dressed quickly and tried to find her shoes . She couldn 't remember where she left them last night . She remembered that she played a game with Roger , at Dad 's insistence . That was in the living room . But she was still wearing them then . Stalling some more , she thought about that they were in the bathroom when she took a shower . She remembered that her pink towel was lying on top of the shoes . It was because both were pink , and she thought that was funny . Her mom had bought them for her last week when she was feeling well . It was from her favorite store , the one on the corner by the hardware store . The first time she had noticed it was when she rode with dad to get a hammer and some nails . With mom sick , he tried to fix most things himself . Sometimes he could , and sometimes he made a big mess . She thought of the time that the garbage disposal was stopped up . He crawled under the sink , unscrewed a bolt , and water and garbage blew out everywhere … in his face and all over the kitchen floor . She laughed out loud thinking about it . " Are you looking for these ? " Aunt Ethel smiled , as she opened the bedroom door . Sarah stood up quickly … she had been scrounging around in her closet floor . " Uh … hello , Aunt Ethel , " Sarah tried to answer politely . She was thinking , however , that she really hated it when people opened her door without being invited . " Yes , I was trying to remember where I left them . " " Well , I told your dad when I saw them in the kitchen that you would be looking for them , " Aunt Ethel said , as she grinned way too big for Sarah 's mood . " Well , when I was a girl . . . " Sarah had already stopped listening , as she slipped on her shoes as fast as she could , so she could get out of the situation and check on her mother . The hallway was dim as she hurried out to the kitchen . Her mother was not there . She went quickly to the living room , hoping she was there having her morning tea . She was not there . She raced back down the hall to her mother 's bedroom doorway . She was lying there , asleep , looking frail . Sarah 's heart skipped a beat . She shook her head with amazement . Bryan and Sam had known each other since they were four or five years old . They did not have much in common back then , and mostly didn 't have much in common still . Bryan 's dad had started taking them to church last year because Bryan seemed to be having a great deal of trouble getting along with all the other kids in school and the neighborhood . He worked many hours a week , and could not spend much time with his son . Attending the church seemed to help … at least a few times a week they were all together . He had begun to help with the boys ' group , and had really enjoyed it . Lately , however , his lack of time had hindered the situation . Things had come to a standstill . . . at home , with the family , and with the church . He found himself missing more services and more activities … and more time with Bryan . He had not meant for it to happen … it was life . Bryan came back in through the front door , leaving it standing open . " Bryan … the door ? " his mother reminded him . " I 'm going right back out , Mom . Sam is waiting for me , " Bryan answered , seeming to be busy looking for something . " Have you seen my new game ? I put it right here in this drawer . " " No , I haven 't , but your dad recently cleaned out that drawer . You know he likes things neat and tidy , " she continued . " Oh , my gosh , Mom ! Why can 't you and Dad just leave my stuff alone ? " he retorted . He went back out the front door . She could hear him muttering all the way down the walkway . She peeked out through the living room curtain just in time to see Bryan and Sam whiz down the sidewalk on their bicycles . " Parents make me so angry ! They are so annoying , " Bryan complained as they rode toward the park . " They always want to know where are you going , and what are you doing , and why aren 't you eating ? Did you make your bed , did you brush your teeth , did you take your shower ? It 's endless torture ! " he rambled on . Sam smiled , and kept on riding . The park was close by now . He had wondered all those things himself , but Bryan seemed to give voice to them more . All those parent - things seemed to just be how things are … he never thought to complain about it all . He just did all the things because he felt like he was supposed to . " Look , there 's Rachel and Sarah . . . let 's go see what they are doing , " Sam exclaimed as he turned his wheel into the park entrance . He was thinking , Bryan rolled his eyes , but followed Sam into the park . He wasn 't really in the mood to talk to Rachel and Sarah . They seemed so boring to Bryan . . . nothing to really talk about with those two . Caroline was a little more interesting , but he didn 't see her anywhere . He would rather talk to Daniela , but she didn 't spend time at the park like the other kids . " What are you two up to ? " Sam asked , as he rolled his bike over to the big slide . " Not much , " Rachel answered , noticing that Bryan didn 't look very happy . The three chatted for a few minutes , while Bryan looked around impatiently , tapping on his bike handle . Sam smiled at the girls as he followed Bryan down the sidewalk . They quietly rode around the neighborhood , not talking much . After half an hour or so , Bryan said , " Let 's go to my house . I want to talk to my mom . " As soon as he opened the front door , Mom was waiting . Bryan 's father sat across from him at the table . Both of them were quiet , nearly motionless . After a while , Bryan started to tap on the table , as he sometimes tended to do . " Bryan , you know I hate when you do that , " said his dad , trying to be patient . Bryan stopped immediately . He loved his dad , but he knew his limits . Dad could get really angry at times . He looked down at his feet , feeling self - conscious . He was wishing this would hurry up and get over with . " Son , this is difficult for me , too . I don 't like to punish you , " his dad was saying . Bryan was thinking about glaring in return , but looked away . Bryan remained quiet as long as he dared to . " No . I 'm not trying to be mean . It 's just that everything makes me so mad . You and Mom are always trying to make me do things . I just get tired of it . " " We try not to be hard on you , Bryan . There have to be some rules and guidelines . Families are run that way . . . so is society . Anytime people have to live together or work together , you have to have some basics . Everyone needs to cooperate . " " Not so fast , son . Your mom and I made a list of things that we want to change around here . This is your copy . If we see some improvement this week , then we will see about having your sleepover , " Dad concluded with announcing that Bryan would be helping with the dishes after dinner . Dad put the list on the table , patted Bryan on the shoulder , and went to the kitchen to help with dinner . Dad made great spaghetti , but Bryan was suddenly not hungry at all . The list was so long that he felt like he broke out in a sweat . They had never made him do this many things in his whole life ! He stared at it in disbelief . At dinner , he took a few bites to not be in more trouble , but mostly twisted his fork around in circles . He wished he could eat . . . it smelled so good . All he could think of was the list . He almost asked to be excused , then he remembered … the dishes . His heart sank at the thought . It was the worst job ever . Especially when Dad cooked . He always made a huge mess , and used every pot in the house . He thought about complaining , but changed his mind . Then , Mom and Dad , laughing about something , stood up , put their napkins by their plates , and left the room . " You can 't be serious ? " Bryan was thinking . " You are leaving me with this whole mess ? " Bryan was never angrier , and at the same time more amazed , in his whole life . He sat at the table for a long time , wishing it would all go away . It wasn 't . The whole week was sheer torture . He had to pick up his own laundry , put it in the laundry room , make up his bed , every day , brush his teeth and take a shower without being told . Every other day , he had to help with the dishes . He also had to be cautious of how he spoke . That was the hardest . It was a habit now to answer abruptly and curtly . It was a constant effort . He was still in a bad mood most of the time , but worked a little harder to not let it show . Each day he checked off the list . It was becoming routine . On Friday , it was his turn to do the dishes . It had become a habit , and not really that bad . He played a little music while he cleaned . It seemed to make it go by faster . Sam and Bryan slept late . They had stayed up until 2 : 00 playing games on Bryan 's new electronic system , and could not open their eyes when morning came . Bryan 's mom had offered waffles and bacon , but both boys were too tired to eat anything . It was nearly ten o ' clock and they still could hardly move . " Do you want to get up , Bryan ? " Sam finally asked . Sitting up slowly , Sam said , " Let 's get up . I probably should get home soon , or at least call my mom . She is probably wondering about me . " After a few bites of bacon , both boys went out the front door . They headed down the sidewalk toward Sam 's house . After a few steps , they caught sight of John riding his bike . He waved and did a u - turn , stopping right in front of them . " So , what did you do that was so fun ? " John asked . " We played all my new games , and , of course , I won them all , " Bryan stated proudly . Sam looked at John . They both smiled . The three boys continued down the walk . Passing the park by this time , Sam saw the girls on the swings . " Sam spent the night , and I 'm walking him home . We stayed up really late . I beat him in all my new games , " Bryan said proudly . " Nothing , really , " Rachel said , as she started to swing higher . " I bet I can swing higher than all of you ! " " Not higher than me ! " Bryan said , jumping in one of the swings . He began to swing higher and higher . He couldn 't move for a few seconds … pain … shock … embarrassment . When he felt like he could breathe again , he tried to get the sand out of his eyes . When he finally looked up , there was Daniela , standing right in front of him . Rachel and Caroline started to giggle . Sam soon joined in . Then Matt . . . then John . Before long , the entire group was laughing over Bryan lying there , out of breath , in the sand . . . including Bryan . Daniela was the last to laugh , but she just couldn 't hold out any longer . The Kids of Briarwood began as a personal project over eight years ago . The stories are geared toward those who desire to instill in their children old - fashioned values , but yet find so little available out in the marketplace . The fun - loving " kids " find adventure , friendship , social challenges , and learn to love and forgive . Follow the " kids " from ages eleven through fifteen , in four exciting , adventure - filled books . Follow their transition into junior high , then high school . . . as they " discover " who they are . Follow their lasting friendships , through the ups and downs . All of the characters in The Kids of Briarwood are based on real people . . . students , personal children and grandchildren , relatives , etc . Some people " play " more than one character . All incidents stem from true life happenings . Stay tuned for upcoming books in the series . What amazing discovery do Matt and Sam make ? What exciting new role does John fill ? What is the latest saga for Daniela and Bryan ? Who is involved in a secret love affair ? Stay tuned ! For speaking engagements , and news or information on The Kids of Briarwood series , you can contact Linda Arnold at e - mail : This email address is being protected from spambots . You need JavaScript enabled to view it . . " > This email address is being protected from spambots . You need JavaScript enabled to view it . . Take a positive , proactive approach to choosing reading material for your children or grandchildren . The marketplace will give them enticing , entertaining literature , visuals , music and games . We , as their mentors , need to give them character building alternatives . This is the goal of The Kids of Briarwood .