Exploring is Lil’ Bit’s priority. His sisters, Hyacinth, Daffy, and Lily’s chattering drives him to distraction. Mama and Uncle Digs have different priorities for Lil’ Bit. His uncle’s lectures on the pitfalls of humans’ backyards, and his uncle’s oil-wick-cap lamp, used for digging tunnels, impress Lil’ Bit. But he yearns for adventure in the nearby woodlands. His adventure takes him out on a tree limb, staring at an old, sleepy owl.

         Mama Tamias delivered four lively chipmunks. A boy and three girls. Over and over, Lil’ Bit’s sisters nagged him about this or that or for not listening to Mama. But it did not matter to him. Lil’ Bit’s mind was set on exploring the woodlands. One day, he tried to sneak quietly away…

         “Brother! Mama told us not to go too far!'” said Hyacinth, imitating Mama licking her wee paws and rubbing her face. Daffy and Lily nodded in agreement.  

                        Daffy                                   Hyacinth                               Lily

                  IMG_20170506_0001                    IMG_20170506_0001                  img_20170506_0001-1

         “What’s that?” yelled Lil’ Bit. “I am the oldest!  Right!  It’s my job to help Mama! Now go and collect new leaves for our nest! I will gather as many acorns as I can–AND WILL COME BACK, LATER! RIGHT!”

         “Hmph!” Lil’ Bit’s sisters’ ears lay flat. With noses in the air, they turned their backs to him.  

         Lil’ Bit stretched his legs and squatted with deep knee bends. He stood for a while with his small paws folded tightly across his chest. It was his first adventure away from the nest.                                                                                                                     

Midge Curreri