Ellor Explorers: A Safari Adventure (Short story)

Ellor Explorers: A Safari Adventure
Elizabeth and Harris were packing for a very exciting holiday.
“Where are we going?” asked Harris.
Elizabeth smiled and said, “Africa.”
Mum raised her eyebrows. “Africa? Well… how are you going to get there?”
Elizabeth laughed. “We’ll fly, silly!” She hopped onto Mum’s bed and clicked on her seatbelt.
“Oh I see,” Mum said with a smile. “Right then… I’d better get my pilot hat.”
Mum climbed up too, held her hands out like she was steering and said, “Welcome aboard! Pilot Mum is ready.”

Elizabeth and Harris giggled as they flew over clouds, over the sea and across the sky.
“Prepare for landing!” Mum called. And then whoosh! they were there.
“Africa,” whispered Elizabeth.

Earlier that day, Mum had set up a safari area on the floor. There were pebbles for the ground, a truck for exploring, and four animals ready to meet them.
“A lion,” said Elizabeth.
“An elephant!” shouted Harris.
“And a rhino… and a giraffe,” Mum added.

Mum smiled. “Right explorers, I need to make lunch. While I’m gone, can you put the animals back into the puzzle?”
Elizabeth and Harris looked at each other. They had other ideas.
As soon as Mum turned her back, something magical happened. The room felt warmer, the air felt sunny, and suddenly Elizabeth and Harris were inside the safari.

They stood on bumpy ground that felt just like pebbles, and in the distance they could see the aeroplane Mum had flown earlier. A truck rolled past, filled with food, and a safari ranger stopped, waved, and asked if they would like to join the tour and help feed the animals.
Elizabeth and Harris climbed in and off they went, past tall giraffes, strong rhinos, gentle elephants… and finally, the lion.

The lion walked slowly towards them, and Harris felt a little scared. Elizabeth gave him a big hug.

And just like that, everything changed.
They were back again. The safari faded. And the lion wasn’t a lion at all - it was Mum. 
Elizabeth laughed and Harris grinned with relief.

Lunch is ready, you two,” she said with a smile. “I’ve made a feast fit for a Lion King.”
Elizabeth laughed and Harris grinned, and as they sat down to eat, they both knew their safari adventure would be waiting for them again tomorrow.

What adventure will you go on next?

Inspired by our silicone safari shape sorter 

Illustrated by Leigh Pedroz Instagram: @oleadesigns1