fastback08
Veteran Member
Chapter 14
The milking lessons were comical at first, but soon, Frank had a handle on the situation and the cow had settled into the routine and the barn. Chickens were added and Frank's Dad suggested building a pig sty at the far end of the pasture. Frank agreed and the two of them built a sty large enough for a dozen pigs and added a farrowing shed. Frank continued to work the garden and as the early crops they planted were winding down, they started planning a Fall garden. Greens of course and broccoli, and potatoes. They would confer with Janet and June to see what additions they wanted.
The men went back to the house, talking about the news as they walked. “Well, it looks like I was wrong about the world being too quite. It looks like that little guy in North Korea is cranking up again,” said Frank.
“Yeah, I guess it was just a lull,” agreed John, “I guess there will always be a turmoil of some kind in the world.”
The men had just reached the gate leading into the back yard when they both heard the loudest noise they had ever heard. There was a very light shake to the ground, but he noise was deafening. Both men had their ears covered and Frank broke into a run for the house to make sure everyone was all right. John was right behind him, but not quite as fast.
“Janet,” Frank screamed from the back porch, “are you OK”
“We're fine, but what in the world was that noise, It sounded like the whole world blew up.”
“I don't know,” said Frank, “I didn't see any mushroom clouds or bright light, see if you can get Mom on the phone and tell her Dad is on his way home.”
Frank ran back outside looking in all directions and could see no sign of any explosion. Puzzled, he went in the house and turned on the television. All channels had a Stand By, screen displayed. “Baby, get in here, this isn't going to be good,” he called to Janet.
Suddenly, the screen showed Sheppard Smith, looking a little confused, “Folks, I have just been informed and there is no substantiation at this time, the Yellowstone Caldera has exploded. The entire area is, of course, off limits to air traffic, but ground reports are trickling in and they are not good. It seems as if the Caldera and the entire Long Valley are involved. People to the East and South East of the area should prepare now for heavy ash fall. At the top of the hour, we will have vulcanologist , Dr. Sam Smith, who will have more information for us. We will continue to monitor this deadly situation and keep you abreast of any forthcoming information.”