Campfire Readings
I like to read. I know people who like to read even more than I do, and I am usually the beneficiary of their completed “dead tree” books or the occasional gift certificate for an online or MobiPocket read on my Sony Clie. I’ve grown accustomed to the size and scrolling of a book page on my PDA, and I’m always happy that I have a book with me when I’m waiting somewhere.
But one thing I’ve always really enjoyed is being read to. I remember my dad reading stories from Reader’s Digest, and I hope my sons will remember the time we’ve spent cuddled up with a book.
One of my fondest memories is hearing Nancy Drew stories around the campfire. One of the counselors I worked with always had a couple of Nancy Drew books with her, and she’d always read at least a couple of chapters after dishes were done and we were sitting around the campfire. It was such a serene scene to see the girls all settled into their thoughts and gazing into the coals while Nancy befuddled some conniving criminal.
I think it was another message to the girls – you can figure the tough things out. You can come out ahead if you work and use your head. Don’t be afraid to get a little dirty, then put on your pumps and sweater set for a nice brunch with your aunt and best friend.
Yeah, they were pretty hokey even at the time, but I have to admit, I feel happy for a young girl when I see her with her nose stuck in a Nancy Drew book. I hope she has someone to read her a few chapters.
