Trying Something New

It was a scorching afternoon. My father
suggested that we have a picnic at the Botanic Gardens. I had never been on a picnic before but it sounded like an absurd idea.

“I don’t want to sweat!” I whined.

Papa said encouragingly, “Don’t be a spoilsport. It will be fun!”

To my utter dismay, my siblings nodded enthusiastically. I stomped my feet in frustration, but everyone turned a deaf ear to my grumbling. I relented and packed my portable fan.

Upon reaching our destination, my family set up the food and drinks. I was, however, preoccupied with keeping cool. I switched on my fan, after which my expression changed from confidence to shock.

My heart sank. No batteries!

Sweat trickled down my spine, but that was nothing compared to the mounting anger I felt. Why force me to have a picnic when I did not want to? I cursed.

Misery and fury surged through my body. I felt like throwing a tantrum. Just then, my little sister waved a paper fan behind me.

“This will keep you cool,” she beamed brightly.

My exasperation dissolved instantly. I was her elder sister, yet she was handling the discomfort better. My face flushed red with embarrassment, and I muttered a soft thank-you.

After that, I chatted happily with my family. Through this experience, I learnt that picnicking might not be my cup of tea, but it was bearable because of my sister’s kindness. My first picnic was not an absolute disaster after all!

(250 words)