CHAPTER 12
"Back Into the Trees at Last"

The big moment finally arrived. Everyone was very pleased that Misty's foot was a lot better. They hoped it was strong enough for Misty to try to climb back up into the tree tops where she belonged. Misty was not totally sure if she could make it, but after all the breakfast talk, she was looking forward to getting back home and eating some juicy eucalyptus leaves.

Stripe the Goanna decided to go in front of Misty to encourage her, and to be on hand if she needed help. The other friends gathered in a little group to sing a climbing song to celebrate the occasion and to lift everybody's spirit. There's nothing more comforting than getting together and singing a song.

They sing a lot of songs in Secret Gully. It doesn't seem to matter what time of night or day it is, or whether it is windy or still, raining or fine, you'll hear singing coming from somewhere around the forest.

The most popular songs are about doing things. This sort of song helps make hard work seem easier. There's songs about climbing and building. There's songs about running, jumping and flying. We've already heard the excellent song about nest making and there are many more like that one.

Sometimes on a quiet afternoon you'll hear a dreamy song about relaxing, or looking at a beautiful view over the mountains. Of course, at night you will often hear a lullaby being softly sung to help the children get to sleep.

All in all, Secret Gully is a very tuneful place. Perhaps that is what helps make it such a friendly place. Everyone is always willing to say a cheery hello, and lend a hand if you ever need any help.