An Ounce of Prevention

Once again they visited the Chamber of Commerce, this time asking about camping areas and where wild horses might be observed. The man at the counter didn't know, but gave them the name of a woman who could help them. They arranged to meet her at a restaurant for dinner that evening.

Meanwhile they bought a few books and maps, as well as some camping equipment. Their vacation was getting more expensive than she had anticipated. The more they spent, the more she was convinced that it would have been better to simply fly to their destination and rent what they needed. Was it possible to rent camping equipment? At least now they would have the equipment next time - if there ever was a next time.

That evening they were at a table waiting for their orders when Mrs. Anderson arrived. She shook Carmen and Alex's hands and sat down at the table, a smile on her face as her gaze included each child.

"My, what an attractive family! You said you are from Arkansas, right?"

Alex glanced at Carmen, uncertain about who was being addressed and who was going to lead the discussion. Carmen was the one who had requested the information, so she turned to Mrs. Anderson.

"Yes, we live in northwest Arkansas on a farm…an American Wildlife Safari."

Mrs. Anderson looked at Alex. "A wildlife Safari? That sounds interesting."

Carmen couldn't blame her. Even after almost nine years, she still found Alex more interesting to watch than any other man. He had beautiful soft brown eyes that often revealed more than the rest of his face would allow. He wasn't simply good looking. He projected a confidence that made people accept his word, and his deep voice entertained like no other.

Alex glanced at Carmen, his eyes holding a touch of humor. "It was originally my idea, but Carmen runs the safari while I run the clinic."

"Clinic? You're a doctor?"

He nodded. "I'm a veterinarian."

She frowned. "Barnett…I had a doctor named Barnett years ago back in Texas. He and his wife died in a plane crash."

Alex nodded again. "They were my parents."

She put a hand on his forearm in an expression of sympathy. "I'm so sorry."

He shrugged, his expression becoming guarded. "As you said, that was years ago."

Alex didn't like to talk about his parents so it was no surprise when he abruptly changed the subject. "I understand you can tell us where wild horses hang out." He nodded at Carmen. "My wife would like to observe them."

Mrs. Anderson turned her attention back to Carmen. "I do know of a place. I own some land southeast of here where wild horses have been frequently seen. It is surrounded by mountains."