Until Dad Comes Home

4-6 min read
14 pages
4+

When Dad, a forest ranger, goes away for several months to look after a faraway forest, Mom and the three children take care of things at home. Emily tends the flowers and vegetables, Jacob looks after the animals, and little Sofia fills the house with pictures, songs, and hugs. Then, one golden evening, Dad comes home.

In a little village by quiet rivers and tall oak trees, there lived a happy family.

Anna was the mom. John was the dad. Emily was the oldest, Jacob was in the middle, and little Sofia was the youngest of all. They were always happiest when they were all together.

One spring day, John packed his bag. He was a forest ranger, and a faraway forest needed him. Its trees needed looking after, and that would take several months. Everyone knew he had to go. But oh, how they would miss him!

Before he left, John gathered the children close. “While I’m gone, please help Mom,” he said. “I have a job for each of you.”

Dad asked Emily, the oldest, to look after the flowers and the vegetable patch. Every day, she watered the thirsty plants and pulled up the weeds. Emily loved watching it all grow.

Jacob, the middle one, was in charge of the animals. He scattered feed for the chickens. He played chase with Rusty, the playful dog. Then he sat by old Whiskers and petted him gently, and the old cat purred. What fun!

Little Sofia was too small for big chores, but she helped in her own way. She drew bright pictures for Mom. She sang happy little songs: “Tra-la-la, tra-la-lee!” And she hugged Mom, Emily, and Jacob tight.

Mom took care of everything, calm and kind. She gathered the children close and told them the forest stories Dad loved to tell. “He’ll be home soon,” she said softly.

Months went by, and soon Dad would be home! “Let’s plan a surprise,” said Emily. “Yes!” cried Jacob and Sofia.

Emily and Sofia picked flowers by the house and tucked them everywhere. Meanwhile, Jacob taught Rusty a brand-new trick.

At last, the day came. As the sun went down, they saw someone far away, walking toward the house. It was Dad! “Dad’s home!” the children shouted, and off they ran.

Dad’s eyes shone. “Emily, look at these flowers and vegetables!” he said. “Jacob, the animals look so happy—and Rusty has a new trick!” Sofia sang him her song, and Dad laughed. “I bet you kept everyone smiling.” Then he hugged Mom. “Thank you, Anna.”

That night, they all sat around the table. Dad told stories about the faraway forest, and everyone leaned in close. “Tell us more!” begged Sofia.

The little house was warm and bright. The whole family was home again, all together, right where they belonged.

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