Hey Reader,
In this free edition of The Misadventures of Grandpa and Leo, we learn that sometimes the best memories come from the silliest moments—like jumping into puddles together. These little adventures are the glue that binds generations, turning ordinary days into extraordinary stories and memories.
The Puddle Parade
Grandpa, Leo, and the puddles are ready for adventure—but who invited a hedgehog to the parade?
Leo tugged on Grandpa’s sleeve.
“Come on, Grandpa! The puddles are waiting!”
Grandpa pulled on his green wellies and picked up two umbrellas. “Best not keep the puddles waiting, then. But where are your wellies, lad?”
Leo grinned, holding up his red trainers for Grandpa to see. “Trainers are faster!”
Grandpa sighed, but his eyes twinkled.
At the door, Leo shoved on his red trainers and gave the laces a big tug. Grandpa pulled on his green wellies, tipped his hat to the back of his head, and popped the old umbrella open with a click. “Puddle Parade—march,” he whispered. Together they tiptoed out the back door—plip, plop, squelch—into the soft rain and the shining garden.
They splashed and stomped through the garden, water flying everywhere. Leo jumped into the biggest puddle with both feet—SPLASH! Grandpa pretended to slip, waving his umbrella like a sword.
Leo laughed so hard he toppled backward into the mud with a dull thud. Grandpa helped him up, chuckling. “Your mum’s going to say I’m the worst puddle patrolman in history.”
Just then, the largest puddle began to ripple. Something was moving under the water.
Leo froze. “Grandpa… what’s in there?”
Grandpa tilted his spectacles. “Well, that’s curious—”
The puddle rippled again. A little nose popped up—then a prickly head.
“It’s a monster!” Leo gasped, grabbing Grandpa’s arm.
Oh no!! What happens next? Does something climb out of the puddle? Or is Leo in for a big surprise? Want the full misadventure — and find out who (or what!) was hiding in the puddle?
Stories are abbreviated in the free version. But interrupted in a strategic section of the story to allow you to create your own ending. Upgrade here to receive two complete stories each month (and more) for just $5 per month — and you can cancel anytime.
Making Memories, One Activity at a Time
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Next time it rains, try a "Puddle Parade" or puddle fun of your own!
- Make a puddle obstacle course by jumping over two small puddles. Then, find the biggest puddle and walk around it without touching the water. Next, hop on one foot or jump with two feet between the two puddles. Now, tiptoe like a bird around the puddles and then weave between the puddles without getting your wellies wet! To end the obstacle course, make the loudest SPLASH!
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Every moment lends itself to conversation. Even puddles!
Does every child love jumping in puddles? Talk to your little one about what you did when you saw a puddle when you were little. What did you wear on your feet when it rained and there were puddles? Did you ever get really, really muddy?
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Recommendations
“Splish, Splash, Ducky!” by Lucy Cousins — a joyful little read for rainy days.
Ducky Duckling loves playing outside in the rain.
This is a bouncy read-aloud book to be enjoyed; beautifully illustrated with bold, bright colours and packed with all sorts of outdoors fun!
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Community Contests
Submit a photo or drawing of your puddle adventures. Look to see Grandpa and Leo's favorite submissions in upcoming issues.
(For paid subscribers only: results will be posted in upcoming issues for all.)
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That's it for this issue. We hope you enjoy our latest story and goodies. Although the content is abbreviated in our free version, we hope you find it helpful in your journey to create your own stories and memories. Stay tuned for a new story next month, and don't forget to share your memories and ideas with our community on social media! If you would like to become a paid subscriber, you can do that here.
Because sometimes the puddle chooses you!