About the Author

The author Sheri Cook lives on a small ranch in Carson City, Nevada, with her husband and son. She grew up in the Midwest as number seven out of eight children. She moved to the Sierra Mountains in 1998 and has settled comfortably in the rural setting of the Carson Valley. The towny lifestyle fits well with Sheri's love of outdoor recreation, sports and nature.

Sheri Writes:

The most animated people I know was the man who played spoons at the festivals and my best friend growing up. She had a way of telling stories that was so fun you had to smile and listen more. They both captivated their audiences. They both have left an impression on my life.

In telling stories, the imagination is challenged. The effects of a good story well told are everlasting. It defines character to pull upon imagination and interact with animation.

Starting my own stories with the phrase “Once upon a time” heightens my own curiosity. “Where am I going this time?” I’ll ask myself. It’s a great moment of no boundaries. And then the focus narrows to find characters and a meaning to relay.

Not all stories turn out so great. But sharing such spontaneous creativity is a gift.

I have found that happiness lies within the smile. Life is a perspective thing and with that comes the control to change perspective and acknowledge joyous delights in all moments.

I give many thanks to my loving husband, John, and his endless support. No matter how wild and crazy my ideas may be, you’re right there with me. I also give thanks to my parents and family. The impressions of growing up in such a large family and the entertainment value we share is part of my core values.

Love to all the people of my life, past and present; because of your influence, I am who I am.

Author's Briefing:

The making of this story is a story in itself. I remember clearly the events of the evening. I had a headache and skipped dinner. My husband, John and 4 year old son, Hank shared dinner and cleaned up for bed. However it was early in the evening and too early for Hank to sleep. I called for my son to come lay with me and retire for the evening. Like most nights, Hank bundled his arms around several books to read and came down the hallway to meet me. I lovingly explained my headache and requested to leave the lights out. Instead of reading books tonight, we’d have to tell stories.

First it was Hank’s turn. He told of a story that was so sad. “Once upon a time there was a boy who’s mom and dad had died,” he said. “Oh that’s so sad,” I responded trying to expel the sorrowful vibe. “What did that little boy do all day and what did he eat?” I asked. “Oh he played and ate gummies,” was the response. It was like the child’s worst nightmare mixed with his best dreams. Then it occurred to me that so many of the children's stories that we grow up with begin with tragic drama. It’s the familiar drama my child knows from stories in books and childhood movies, especially since we cancelled our television subscription years earlier.

When it was my turn, I searched for a story that didn’t involve death of a loved one. I wanted an inspirational, feel good story that shared a moral ethic. Drawing upon our ranch style home with a big garden I came up with the storyline “Going for Carrots.” When the story ended, Hank shot up from a lying position next to me and exclaimed, “Mom! That was a good story!”. I agreed, “That was a good story.” And I got up to write it down.

Later that weekend, my husband went upstairs to the kitchen and Hank ran over to the stairwell and called up, “Dad, will you get me some juice?” John answered, “Sure thing, Buddy.” And Hank said, “Dad, you are a good friend.” Right then and at that moment I declared to publish my story. If that is the effect the story has on a child, I was going to put it in print.

The story is fun, full of companionship and good nature. The ending is a spectacular relay of morale. To be founded on being a believer and being believed in is what life is all about. Sharing such terms of endearment can leave a lifetime impression.

Enjoy the story as if you are both characters; the appreciative, acknowledging bunny and the caring, giving squirrel. Because we all are and can be…. a good friend.