Friend Is Back

Hey there! What an exhilarating surprise—I caught sight of a dear friend!

She emerged from the woods across the street, gracefully strolling past my driveway with a sense of elegance. Then, a moment of pause. Her eyes fixated on the vacant lot beside us, a mixture of astonishment and disbelief dancing in her gaze. After a brief pause, a tilt of her neck, and a moment of contemplation, she turned and gracefully retreated back into the woods.

The tiny paradise she once called home had vanished, erased without consideration for the well-being of creatures like the Gopher Tortoise who had become a cherished part of our Florida abode.

Months before the clearing began, I made the decision to relocate her. So, during her basking sessions near her burrow, I’d pay her a friendly visit. Imagine her surprise waking from her nap to find me peering at her! After a couple of encounters, she bid farewell to that burrow and settled in one of her other homes across the road.

Usually tolerant of my pardner (less so of me), I pondered why she left her burrow so hastily. It wasn’t until later that I discovered—Friend had a family! And let me tell you, they are the most adorable, egg-sized little creatures I’ve ever laid eyes upon.

As they traverse the road, indulging in the lush, tender weeds from our lawn, they seek refuge in the safety and shelter of the lot beside us—a precarious choice.

Thus, I’ve taken it upon myself to physically relocate Friend’s family back across the road. After a few encounters, it seems they have found solace there. And for at least a month, they have eluded my sight.

Spotting Friend brought a wave of relief. She made it through. Now, I eagerly await the chance to catch a glimpse of her adorable family members.

✨

With hopes high and hearts full of wonder, D 🌴🌊