"We're taking a picnic trip to Santa Monica."

The second Martin let it slip, the bus kicked into gear, and a surge of surprise had everyone on their feet in an instant."

"What a picnic!"

"How could that be?"

"What's this nonsense out of the blue?"

"Why Santa Monica? Were there not more desirable places for a picnic?"

"A picnic? That sounds good to me."

Following Martin's revelation to the family, a medley of reactions reverberated through the bus, creating a symphony of noise.

John was delighted with the plan and returned to sit beside Marie.

"Marie, Martin has been making me proud lately, but today he outdid himself with...