Right before turning into camp today, a runner was heading south on the trail, me of course heading north. Three white tail deer were startled running north away from me, south away from him. This happened a few times before they darted across the trail into the semi frozen canal and away into the forest. Some people may know how much I love deer. I think they are beautiful, majestic, sometimes graceful creatures. I have two deer stories. One sad, one peaceful. One day while going for a run with my dog in Rockcreek National Forest, we came upon an accident just outside the National Zoo. A deer had run into the road and was struck by a car. The driver was ok. The deer, hind legs paralyzed was struggling to stand. This deers struggle was agonizing and heartbreaking. As I got closer, a police officer arrived, told me to keep moving, removed her gun from her holster and fired two shots. My other deer story; one time while camping in Shenandoah (sp?) National Park, I was laying in a field looking at the stars when a herd of deer entered the field and began grazing around me. I was startled at first, but it was so peaceful and amazing.
I've got extra layers on and Brown is snuggled up.
All day long I was craving root beer. I don't even drink soda, but I want one so bad.
Got some hot cocoa and pad thai in my belly. Going to read for a little bit, then go to bed.
Thank you readers and friends. Think warm thoughts for me tonight.
Goodnight.