A Squirrel's Story

These shots were taken some time in April during one of my scan days. Even after my oncologist pronounced me as cancer-free I still need to subject myself to those tedious follow-up scans done every twelve weeks. A "scan" day consumes almost the whole of my day with a long list of battery of tests –I’ve no complains– I need it. Anyway, in between tests, there would be a two or three-hour wait. Some tests need to be spaced out. During those long waiting period in between tests, my husband and I would go out into the gardens of MD Anderson –lovely garden- especially in spring. Huge trees, flowers in full bloom and busy squirrels running around. I always bring my camera for scenes like these.

Here is Mr. Squirrel, whose attention was obviously caught by something. We observed quietly and saw the object of his fascination…

We knew he wanted that object very much. It has captivated his full attention. He deliberated whether to cross the wide open space, or not –he’d be too exposed!

Made up his mind to take his chances, in the throes of crossing the pavement, he paused, stood up, looked me straight in the eye –as if posing, as if asking “what is that?” as he curiously eyed the contraption I held in my hand (my camera) I continued to snap, refusing to be intimidated by him!

Without warning, as if he got bored sniffing and eyeing me, he skipped and chased after the object of his fascination.

Once it was securely in his mouth, he bounded speedily and crossed the pavement without looking at me

From a distance, secured in the mulch-covered plant bed, he paused and eyed me again, he must be as curious about me, as I am of him. (acorn secure in his mouth)

Then he went back to work diligently, burying the acorn under the dark shadow of the rose bushes.

Alas, I thought that was the end of the squirrel’s story. . .

Then he looked up as if searching for me, spotted me, and focused (again) on the contraption hanging around my neck –my camera…

He bravely stood up –like what he did when crossing that pavement- and stared intently at me! I have no clue as to what that stance is all about, am guessing he was asking me to leave him alone (Just look at that serious face)

Then he turned around, still eyeing me from his peripheral vision – at the side of his eyes- and vigorously labored –burying the acorn under the shadow of the bush.

What he did next puzzled me. With his eyes still alert on me, he wiggled his behind, crouched down on his belly and crossed his arms. Hmmm

Then ever so slowly he stretched his hind legs…

And spread out his arms out…

Now that was too much… I was gaping in fascination and without intending to hurt his tender sentiments, mirth build up, bubbling, then a loud bellowing erupted from my throat and a shout of frenzied laughter reverberated as I realized what Mr. Squirrel was trying to do! -he was even giving me the dagger look! Hahaha!

"This is MINE!" he says... hahaha

His eyes followed me everywhere. . .

When I was able to catch my breath, I smiled, backed away and left. . .