Parley, a happy little boy with a big grin and his favorite cowboy hat and boots, rushes out the door, eager to greet the animals. His boots thump softly on the wooden porch as he joins his parents in the soft morning light.
Dad, tall and gentle, wipes his hands on his overalls and smiles down at Parley.
"Ready for a big day, partner?"
"You bet! I want to be the first one to fill my basket with apples!"
Grandparents wave from their porch, cheeks rosy and smiles wide. Children dart between the trees, while adults share hugs and stories before the work begins. The scent of fresh apples mixes with the earthy aroma of fallen leaves beneath the orchard boughs.
Parley stands on tiptoe, stretching his little arms, but the best apples are just out of reach. Dad lifts him up, steady and strong.
"How about a lift, cowboy?"
"Yeehaw! I can see all the way to Grandpa's barn from here!"
Everyone munches on crisp apples, their cheeks sticky with juice, and laughter becomes the soundtrack to the harvest.
After the hearty meal, the children race through the grass, playing tag and hide-and-seek among the trees. Adults swap stories and reminisce, their voices blending into a warm, comforting chorus. Parley sits in his mom's lap, tired but happy, listening to tales of past harvests and old family adventures.
Songs rise up, old favorites and silly tunes, each one met with laughter and singing along. Parley leans against Dad, marshmallow goo smeared on his chin, his eyes wide with wonder at the magic of the night.
"This is the best day ever," he whispers, barely able to keep his eyes open.
Parley[/@ch_1] gives his mom and Dad a big, tight hug, his heart overflowing with love and gratitude.]
"I love you so much. Thank you for today,"
"We love you too, Parley. Sleep tight, cowboy,"
Parley settles into bed, cowboy hat hanging on the bedpost, dreaming of apples, laughter, and all the joy a perfect day can hold.
