Anna saw a frog for the first time ten years ago. Recently, on her sixteenth birthday, her father gave her a beautiful bracelet and her mother gave her a pair of earrings. Anna was thrilled with her gifts and twirled in front of the mirror. However, she didn't realize, that a frog was watching her from the window.

Anna's parents organized a party for her, which she enjoyed. However, Anna felt like something or someone was missing. Later that night, after everyone had gone to bed, Anna went to the pond to admire the water, lily pads, and frogs. One frog, in particular, caught her attention; it was shinier than the others and appeared to be looking at her. At first, Anna thought she was imagining things, but she wasn't certain.

Anna stood too close to the pond and slipped, screaming in terror because she realized she couldn't swim. One of the frogs saw her fall into the water and, not seeing her emerge, dived under and rescued her. After coughing up some water, Anna asked the frog, "How can I ever thank you, Mr. Frog, for saving my life?"

    "Well, beautiful maiden, might I ask you for a favor?" asked the frog. "You can talk?" Anna exclaimed in surprise, not knowing that such a creature existed. "Yes, I am no ordinary frog, but I would like to request something of you." He said. "What would you like?"Anna asked. She shrugged her shoulders because she thought her experience of almost drowning was messing with her mind. The frog did not give up. Miss, I would like to sit with you at your table, and get to know you." "Fine, but I would rather you call me by my name, Anna," Anna answered. "Anna, I like the sound of that name," He said. 

       The frog hopped away before she could inquire about his name. Anna watched him go and blushed. Why should such a creature have such an effect on her?  It was not like her to react this way. She was a young lady and he was an amphibian.  She returned to her room, dried, showered, and changed into a fresh nightgown. The wet one she hung up in the bathroom.

         Anna had the strangest dream while she slept that night. The frog realized her bracelet had come loose when he saved her. He placed it on the ledge outside her room. Perhaps, she would see it in the morning and realize she still owed him that favor.

       The story continues in Chapter 2

        Until then,

bye-bye, little owlets!

Summer out!