The Wondernells
A Wondernell Christmas

The ceremony was most impressive. Standing between Nick and Penny, the Gatekeeper made a speech about the rescue and the joy that the little ones were unharmed. Then he called Sharly to him. "Son, this medal, the Forest Patrol Medal of Valor, has never been given to a civilian before. We present it to you in recognition of your unselfish courage in rescuing Nick and Penny." He hung the silver chain bearing the medal around Sharly's neck as the crowd cheered.

What a party that was! The little ones played games. Everyone sang. No one left hungry, for tables were filled with delicious foods: jewel-berry pie, rainbow-fruit pudding, nicky-nacky nut fudge, mint-water fruit-ade, sunshine sparkle punch, five bean cheese delight, smiling julip casserole, and apple spice cake with mint jewel-berry frosting.

As the day drew to an end, Nick and Penny ran to where Sharly Pepper stood watching two Elder Wondernells playing checkers.

Penny grabbed her hero's hand. "This is the best Christmas ever!" she said.

"Sharly, what was the best part of today?" Nick asked.

Sharly smiled. "Being alive and free," he answered. "That's the best part of any day."