Music on the Mountain

Flashlights and lanterns in hand, we hike to the summit of Bigfoot Hill. Actually, I have no idea what the name of this little hill really is, that's just what I have called it for years---ever since we hiked up there one evening at twilight, hoping to see Bigfoot. He never appeared but the name stuck.

Tonight we are going to look at the stars and sing. There are practically a dozen of us trying to fit on the blanket; after a little rearranging and scooting, we are finally comfortable and all on there...mostly. Mr. P. begins to play his guitar. To my secret delight, one of the first songs he sings is "Grandma's Feather Bed." (how did he know?) Soon we begin singing praise songs, choruses and hymns. Often, Mr. B. starts singing and Mr. P. plays it by ear. Then, if we know it, we join in.

Sometimes a song is interrupted by cries of "Did you see that?" One meteor would have been enough excitement for me; all total, I think we saw 6 meteors, most of which were just quick little blips in the sky. Not everybody spotted a meteor each time; in fact, I only saw one, which I attribute to the fact that I was so caught up in the music...evidently, I can only use one sense at a time. (I am sure it had nothing to do with the fact that I was wearing my reading glasses.)

Singing in the dark, nobody notices or cares if someone hits a wrong note or forgets the words. My youngest son burrows down in his sleeping bag and pretends to snore. I snuggle up to him and keep singing. Sometimes we sing without the guitar--it's a good thing we have Mr. B. to lead us and keep us in tune!

During a break in the singing, we marvel at the stars and point out constellations, planets and the Milky Way. Seldom have we seen so many stars!

Someone suggests a song and we begin again. It's a song I don't know and so I just listen, soaking in the warm fellowship, yet shivering a bit in the breeze. I am tempted to confiscate some body's sleeping bag but become distracted by the next song and Mrs. P's sweet voice harmonizing with her husband.

So many songs, so many sweet moments yet all too soon it is time to take the trek down the little mountain and back to the warmth of the fire. And guess who really did fall asleep in his sleeping bag?