A Letter from Huck
Thud.
It’s a familiar sound. A package has just been delivered to my front door. I stop what I’m doing and go retrieve the box. The return address is Louisville, Ky. I know exactly what this is.
Ripping the box open, I stare at my new treasure — a crocheted Huck, the duck, — handmade by my friend, Barbara. After giving the handsome fellow a proper welcome to the state of Virginia, I gather up the protective packing paper from inside the box. And that’s when I find it. A letter from Huck.
Hi, I’m Huck.
Can I live with you? The lady I lived with said you would love me. She had to put me in this dark place because she said it would take me to you.
It was a long time before I got here. I kept hearing funny noises, and I got bumped around a lot. I don’t think that any part of me is broken, but I do feel out of shape.
I am here at your house now, and my new life with you will begin.
Love,
Huck
Dear Huck,
Yes, you can live here with John and me. And yes, we will love you. And we promise never to put you in a dark, cramped box ever again. We hope you like to travel because you will go with us to all sorts of festivals and shows and book signings. There, children will frequently hug you and kiss you and talk to you. We are so pleased that you are here with us. Welcome to your forever home.
Love,
Nan, your adopted Mother Duck