Parley, a cheerful three-year-old with a worn cowboy hat and boots, skips down the front porch steps, his soft brown eyes sparkling with excitement. The ranch bustles as his parents and four older siblings begin their day; horses whinny, and the smell of hay drifts on the breeze. Today, Parley feels especially eager—there’s talk of learning something new.
Parley follows his father, watching intently as his dad fills a feed bucket. "Daddy, can I help with Pebbles today?" he asks, rocking on his heels, eyes wide with hope. His father smiles, tousling his light brown hair, and together they walk to a pen where a gentle white goat named Pebbles waits.
Parley kneels beside his father, watching every careful motion. "First, be gentle and calm, just like this," his dad says, wrapping his hands around Pebbles’ udder. With a deep breath, Parley mimics the gesture, giggling when a stream of warm milk splashes into the metal pail. Pebbles nuzzles his arm, and he beams with pride, feeling like a real ranch hand.
Parley[/@ch_1] runs through the pasture. Butterflies flit above wildflowers, and his siblings chase each other near the old oak tree.]
After chores, Parley joins his brothers and sisters for a game of hide-and-seek among the hay bales. Laughter rings out as he ducks behind a barrel, heart pounding with delight. His boots kick up clouds of dust, and the ranch feels endless, full of possibilities.
Parley sits between his parents, savoring a hearty stew and fresh bread, his cheeks rosy from the day’s excitement. His siblings chatter about their own adventures, while his mother pours a glass of warm milk just for him. Parley grins, knowing this milk came from Pebbles and his own hard work.
Parley snuggles into his father’s lap, his eyelids growing heavy. "Once upon a time, on a ranch much like ours..." begins his father, voice low and soothing. As the story unfolds, Parley sips the last of his warm milk, feeling safe, loved, and already dreaming of tomorrow’s adventures.
