Bellamy's Redemption

“It’s just something we do. Dwight was the Colorado All-Around Men’s Lumberjack Champion in 2005.”

“Good for you,” I said to Dwight.

“Aww, it’s nothing,” he said. “More hash browns?”

“Sure, I’d love some more,” I said, deciding I had better fuel up for the day ahead of me.

“And,” Bellamy continued, “Dericka was Little Miss Chop-N-Saw when she was a kid. What year was that?” asked Bellamy.

“Oh, I’m not sure. Maybe when I was in third of fourth grade. I only got the title since we were cutting down saplings. Anyone can chop down a sapling.”

I nodded as I sipped my coffee, wondering whether I could chop down a sapling.

“After we warm up with the axe throwing,” said Bellamy, “we’ll head up to the lake. There’s a log sawing competition going on up there today, too. That’s more of Sherifaye’s forte.”

“Well, maybe not this time,” she said, patting her stomach.

“She’d never even tried it before she and Dwight got together, and then one day we

brought her along and she jumped right in and took away a second place ribbon.”

“It’s all the yoga I do. My back is really strong,” she said.

“You’re probably right,” said Bellamy. “Do you do yoga, Emma?’

“Sure,” I said. “I recently took a yoga class, as a matter of fact.”

“Cool. And then it will finally be time for logrolling. They’re having a pretty big competition today, so you’ll get to see us do our thing, and you’ll get to give a try, too. It’s going to be a great day. Not as great as Hayward, but still pretty great.”

“Hayward?” I asked.

“Haven’t you heard of the Lumberjack World Championships in Hayward, Wisconsin?” asked Bellamy. For the first time ever, he looked like he was doubting his choice to be with me.

“Oh, that Hayward. Of course I’ve heard of that! Sure. I practically live in Wisconsin. Chicago is practically in Wisconsin. Not close enough to walk to, but you could definitely ride your bike there.” I stuffed the rest of my piece of toast in my mouth and took my time chewing it.

“Good. I figured everyone had heard of it. Hayward is where my mom is from. Maybe you two know some people in common.”

Kate nodded. “You never know,” she said.

“Maybe,” I agreed.

“Anyway,” Bellamy continued, “I think we’re all going to qualify again this year for Nationals. Maybe you’ll surprise yourself and qualify too.”

“For logrolling?” I asked.

“Yeah.”

“I thought I was just going to give it a little try.”

“You might as well try to qualify for Nationals,” said Bellamy.

“Of course you’ll try to qualify,” said Kate. “Why wouldn’t you when you’re right there?”

I shrugged. “Okay.” And maybe I could speak Mandarin if I just tried.

“Would you like some more juice?” Dericka asked me, holding up a glass pitcher. I noticed for the first time a pile of squelched out orange halves stacked beside the sink like so many toppling cereal bowls.

“No thank you,” I said. “I would, it was delicious, but I’m stuffed,” I added, when she looked disappointed.