Two years back, if Lisa was told to say a prayer, she would request God to put an end to the Christmas holidays. Coming from a humble family meant not enjoying all the holiday options, like her rich friends.

Peter {Lisa’s classmate and friend}, used to visit the zoo and travel abroad.

At the end of 2009, Lisa turned 13. This totally change her attitude towards the season. Sitting on her bed, on a beautiful morning, Lisa said a short prayer.

"Dear God, with all these awesome plans to enjoy the last bit of my holiday, why is it ending?”

Lisa quickly scribbles down a list of what she has to do if she was to enjoy the end of the holiday.

"I am inviting Liz, Rita and Suzie for a sleep over,” Lisa says.

After her parents’ approval, Lisa’s little friends come over the following day. But instead of the expected number, they were more than she planned. 

"My little sister couldn’t stay home alone, so mummy said I can bring her along,” said Little Suzie.

Confidently, Lisa starts arranging an extra mattress for Suzie’s sister. The girls play hide and seek as mama Lisa prepares diner. After eating, Mama Lisa tells them a bedtime story about "a woman who never appreciated her surroundings.”

"Perhaps we don’t appreciate nature,” said Lisa. She quickly came up with a decision to visit the neighboring forest the next day.

Her mother supported her but warned Lisa of the dangers of being alone in isolated places. The next day, along with her friends, Lisa visited the little forest just a few meters from home.

The kids saw beautiful birds, little insects, flowers and tall trees. "Perhaps this is a good option for the zoo,” says Rita.

The girls spot a little waterway, they run towards it. "Wow, running water,” excited Lisa says.

She throws one of her shoes to see whether the water will flow with it. Sadly, her little shoe is gone!

"What will I tell mum? She will stop me from getting out of home,” laments Lisa.

Lisa told her mother who only thanked her for not lying. Tomorrow is extra play day for her. She gets her ball, rope and invites goofy her pet dog to join. Lisa plays dodge ball with her friends. She also skips like never before. "I have played to the maxmum, next week I will have no time to play this much,” Lisa said.

Remembering that she has not said farewell to granny, Lisa seeks permission. She visits granny the following day and gets time to chat with her cousins.

"Oh Gosh, my home work!” shouts Lisa.
She immediately dashes home and writes her home work. Lisa also revises her books, so that she gets ready for the welcome tests.

"I can’t believe I haven’t accomplished everything on the list. Next holiday perhaps,” Lisa sighs.

Ends