First Contact

Today, while checking on the spring crops in the front (read lilac bushes by the road)  I encountered the wolf.   He eyed me with caution and I could hear my animals getting restless in the pen.  The wolf slowly followed me as I carefully examined the leaves, checking for parasites.  The crops in the left fields look good so I moved on, knowing the wolf was watching my every move.  I checked the orchard (the one crab apple tree in the middle)  It grows crooked and this year it seems to be making some odd choices, but the leaves are clear.   I see the wolf, now closer than ever before.  He is obviously curious about me, as I am about him.  Carefully, I knelt down, moisture seeping through my jeans.  I looked at the ground and spoke in a low even tone.  "Hello there, you're a good boy."  He came up slowly, circling me.  I felt his body bump my back, knocking me slightly off balance.  I regain my composure and speak again.  "Hey,  good boy, c'mere."   I now can hear my own animals pushing at the gate, I only pray it holds.   The wolf notices too, he moves away, back toward my animals.  I move away from the pens, hoping the wolf will follow.  I continue to speak to him, luring him with me.  I get out of the line of sight of the pen and kneel down again.  The wolf investigates me once again.  He sniffs at me, brushes by me again his his body.  This time I slowly hold out my hand, palm open and down.  He cautiously sniffs my offering.  He comes in even closer and a gently reach out, patting his fur.  He is so soft, wet from the rain.  My eyes look into his.  I pat him again.  He breaks our eye contact and jogs off, suddenly.  First contact was brief, but sweet.  I know there will be more - and I can't wait.

Until next time...  write on!