Living off the grid provided me with several encounters with nature in many forms – whether it was the weather, creature critters or the growing forest. Some of my favorite encounters were with animals and I love them all. I was far enough out in the woods that spotting wildlife was as easy as finding a game on ESPN. I have so many experiences but today I will share with you a few of my favorites.
The Big Bear
My partner and I stood outside of the kitchen having a discussion. I was relaxing with my eyes closed when in the middle of a sentence my partner whispers, “Be quiet and look to the top of the steps”. I quickly opened my eyes half expecting a deer and half expecting a rabbit, but to my surprise staring back at me was a big bear. I expected that I would have been nervous but was amazed at how exhilarated I was. We stood looking eye to eye in silence for about 5 minutes before the bear decided it was time to go. This was only the beginning with the bear. From time to time when we would leave the canyon, we would see the same bear just hanging out. I discovered he was only hanging around waiting for us to leave so he could break in the house and feast. I will tell you one thing: the stereotype that they love honey is false as they actually prefer fresh maple syrup. After his first big food find the bear always made it a point to stop by, tear down the door, and grab a snack.
The Tiny Critter Parade
As I sat having a cup of coffee right outside the kitchen door one morning, the oddest little parade of animals went past me. My partner and I were making plans to build up some raised garden beds, when out of the corner of my eye I spotted a frog. As the little frog made its way down the path in my direction, I noticed slithering behind – it was a black and yellow king snake sliding along with its head in the air similar to the shape of an S. Behind the snake trotted along my black cat Falcon. I was totally amazed, and to be honest, somewhat confused. I initially thought the snake was hunting the frog but that is not their style. I just witnessed a tiny parade of critters in my own back yard. After making a full circle around the house all 3 of the animals went in their own direction and that was the end.
Rushing Creek
When we first arrived in Arkansas the state had just been through a 4-month drought. Some folks still say that with us came the rain, because when we rolled in, so did the rain. The creek behind the house was bone dry and it was sad. Well, the heavy rains made it down into the canyon not long after we arrived. I woke the next morning and it sounded as if a train was rolling past the house; there was a steady roar. I jumped out of bed and went to investigate. I followed the sound down the path toward the creek bed. I looked toward the creek in awe of the rushing water. I hooted and hollered until everyone came to rejoice that the rains had made it and blessed the land. I couldn’t believe the energy that was flowing so fast and full of life. I swam that day, feeling blessed when I discovered that not only is the creek swelling but with the waters came the creek bed critters.
