Proof

To continue from my story on Tuesday…

I had met elk on the way in, (see Tuesday’s post), and I arrived at my Special Place. I unloaded my supplies and food, settling in with what I needed for my overnight stay. I kept looking out the windows, but no elk appeared in the distance. They were now either downhill, around the corner, or in the trees. Oh, well, it was an amazing encounter…

Unloaded, a quick trip to gather an armload of firewood, and I was ready for supper. Ham sandwich in hand, I walked out on the deck and sat down, looking out across the canyon. The dogs were attentive, hoping for a dropped bite of ham. I scanned the canyon edge looking closely for sign of elk among the trees.

Hmmm. There was a black spot. I don’t think there is supposed to be a black spot there…

Oh, my! The black spot is MOVING!

It’s… It’s… It’s a BEAR! No, there’s more movement… It’s a bear and cub! EEEEEEEK! I looked around, my binoculars and good camera are still inside, but my phone was there. I grabbed a quick photo. I watched as they climbed upward. I NEED my better camera with its great zoom. Excited, I had to shove past my dogs, both confused at what has caused so much excitement. Back in place, I power up my camera and watch as the bear and her TWO cubs fade into the trees.

Argh. I sat down, gathered up my binoculars and went to scanning. I took a bite of sandwich and continued to scan. The sun was slipping away and dark shadows were becoming abundant.

I never did see her again, but BOY!, for about four minutes, I was thrilled!

As dark settled in, and I had to encourage the fire in the stove to burn, my mind wandered. Should I bring Bravo and Indy inside or leave them outside as guard dogs? If they were inside, what warning would I have the bears had crossed the canyon back to me? If a bear REALLY SHOVED on my door, would it simply pop open?

Well, while I debated on the dogs, I could easily lock the door and shove a chair against the doorknob for extra security. What? Guess what? My chair is too short to brace against the doorknob! It always works in the movies! I laughed and went to reading on my book. The fire in the stove was nice and cozy…

It doesn’t take much of a fire to heat up the place.

I was ready for bed and decided to check on the dogs. I flipped the light and saw two dogs totally sacked out, not even lifting their heads. I smiled knowing no bears were anywhere close. I easily slipped into bed and fell asleep. What a few hours!

Here’s my poor proof of bears…

Not my best photography!

Find me here!

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