Natural Rewards

I consider catching a glimpse of wild animals in their element to be a blessing and a sign that you're in the right place...in all of space and time. For example a couple weeks ago my dad called and had lost his dog, Ella. He had been feverishly searching the Little Park Creek area to no avail, so he went to where he had cell phone service and called me for reinforcement and beverages. With a bag full of drinks I headed up the trail to find both father and dog. After walking for a bit I began to get an uneasy feeling. I was alone and it seemed that I spotted movement up the hillside to my left. Peering up as far as I could there was nothing. Then, as I looked to the right my senses came alive. It looked like a mountain range against the creek overgrowth. Trying to figure out what I was looking at it became clear, a moose. Just huge and instead of sticking around to gaze at it, I quickened my pace, talked to myself a bit, and continued up the trail. Just around the corner I found my dad walking down. While still no Ella (she had been found already, retrieved by a resident up Miller Creek), I informed my dad of a moose down the trail, but upon our return it had vanished. Not to be seen by us, just by me, the helper.

A similar scenario happened yesterday, where I was driving down Pattee Canyon and saw a flash across the road. Slowing to see what it was I strained my eyes and eventually saw a deer. Relieved to solve the mystery movement I continued down the road and around the next turn was the most beautiful black bear just hanging out. It's almost like nature alerts me, distracts me, and then provides the goods.

Isn't this bear gorgeous? I think we had a moment.