Backyard Treasure

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 By Angie Bromeland

Norah and Finn took turns digging with the spade they found in their dad’s gardening supplies. They were hunting for treasure.
“It’s sure hot out here,” Norah said.
“Just be glad we’re in the shade,” Finn said. “It could be worse.”
Norah agreed.
Late last night from their bunk beds, Norah had invented a story about fabled treasure being buried there. She and Finn persuaded themselves it was true.
“Maybe we’re in the wrong spot,” Finn finally said. He stood and looked around the yard. “Let’s check under the lilacs, instead.”
“Good idea,” Norah enabled him.
They filled in the hole and started on a new one. A shadow from a crow passed over them. “That’s a lucky sign,” Finn promised. Norah wasn’t so sure, but she nodded anyway.
“Want me to dig a while?” she asked.
“Nah, I’ve got it for now,” Finn answered. Then he smiled. “Besides, you’re too feeble.”
Norah really rolled her eyes at her teasing brother, now. She was as strong as him, and they both knew it.
Suddenly, there was a loud CLUNK.
“What was that?” Finn felt around with his hand. With Norah’s help, they pulled up a large, flat stone.
“Let’s wash it off,” Norah offered.
She sprayed away the mud. The stone was smooth, not abrasive. It was a beautiful green.
“Gosh, this could really be something!” Finn said excitedly.
“It looks like jade,” came another voice.
“Dad!” Norah and Finn said together.
“I came out to see what you kids were doing with my gardening tools,” he said. “Looks like you found a treasure. You could trade that in for a lot of money, I bet.”
Norah and Finn beamed at each other. Their treasure hunt had really paid off—just as they had known it would.  

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