My grandfather told us that in the past, children were
painted white and sent out alone. They had to stay until the paint
wore off, about eighteen days. They lived on food they found or
caught. They faced enemies: white soldiers and other Indians.
In 1947, Roger and I had it a little easier. We went to the
woods for five days. We weren’t painted white. We got to wear
swimming suits. We did have to find our own food and face
the cold. Grandfather taught us how to eat a grasshopper.
I had my own ideas about food. I borrowed five dollars from
Mrs. Richardson. I would baby-sit to pay her back.
Roger and I went to the woods together. But we had to stay
in separate parts. We couldn’t be in touch with each other.
I chose to be near the river. I wanted to sleep in a boat, but
I didn’t find one.
I tasted a bitter berry I found. I spit it out and a rabbit ate it.
Then, I found a place that sold food. I ordered a hamburger and
milkshake. I spent forty-five cents of my five dollars.
While I was eating, I had a grand idea. I could sleep here. I
unlocked a window in the ladies’ room and returned that night. The
room was warm. I helped myself to milk and pie. I’d leave money
for the food. I planned to get out early before the owner returned.