Squirrel Friend

Over these past several months of recovery,

if i didn't have my squirrel friends to talk to,

i wouldn't have anyone at all for about 90% of the time.

On days that it was raining

or the cold was so bitter i could barely feel my hands

i'd sit just inside the front door

tossing out treats for my visitors.

We haven't seen Tripod in several months.

A very friendly three legged squirrel.

There was another who truly broke my heart.

Something was wrong where she couldn't stand up.

She'd grab a piece of bread and tried to stand up to eat,

but would always tip over.

When bread didn't make it to the ground,

she'd tried to climb up on step to reach something.

But it was such a struggle.

i watched one of the squirrels bring her a piece of bread.

But i haven't seen her for a while now either.

i'm usually at the front door with treats by 7am.

The times i have been late, there is always someone waiting for me.

Many times sitting on the welcome mat just outside the door.

As i tossed treats down to the sidewalk,

many more squirrels would come to visit.

But they never get along.

Chasing each other away.

Trying to dodge one another to get something to eat.

i learned to spread the treats around

so everyone was happy.

Some squirrels are friendlier than others.

i have one friend who will grab food from the sidewalk

and climb the steps to eat only inches from me.

Some treats are more popular than others.

i purchased some bulk crackers that came with cookies.

i didn't want the cookies, so i shared them.

One squirrel

in one feeding

ate three whole cookies

When the cookies were gone and there was only bread

i swear i was given dirty looks.

While the squirrels munch on their treats

i talk to them.

Asking what they had planned for the day.

Where they work.

Giving them the weather report for the coming week.

And how happy my SADDI would be seeing all the squirrel friends.

i know that i am slowly slipping

e m o t i o n a l l y.

i'm trying to remain sane by talking to my squirrels friends.

They don't talk back, but i believe they listen.

They wait for me.

They depend on me.

And they trust me.

When they see the front door open

they know the big guy has food.

And i have some company.