Pippa’s Saddlebag Surprise — Beside the long rail fence, Pippa nudged Junebug down the sandy farm track with three folded thank-you notes tucked under her sweater. Read the full story →
Beside the long rail fence, Pippa nudged Junebug down the sandy farm track with three folded thank-you notes tucked under her sweater. She had left one by the gate latch, one in the feed scoop, and one on the barn broom, where the helpers would find them after lunch. Junebug’s hooves made soft chuff-chuff sounds, and the warm air smelled like dust, clover, and sun-baked leather.
At the bend by the big tree, Junebug stopped and puffed out one cheek. Pippa leaned forward. “Junebug, are you chewing my secret?” From the saddlebag came a tiny crinkle, then a carrot top popped out—then another, then a whole bunch tied with blue yarn. Pippa had hidden notes for everyone, but Junebug had been hiding snacks for everyone’s horses.
Pippa laughed so hard her helmet strap wiggled. She added her last note to the carrot bundle: For the four-legged helpers, too. Junebug stepped on, very grand, while the barn windows flashed like they were trying not to giggle. If you follow the reins back to that quiet saddlebag, you might guess where the next chuff-chuff surprise is waiting.
