One Cool Dude

This little american toad sat still through all kinds of ruckus going on around him. The dogs were barking and jumping about, inches from the rock he was perched on. That's actually what got me outside to begin with... to quiet the dogs and see what got them all stirred up. Just a chipmunk, teasing them from the other side of the fence. Dogs... *eye roll* Anyway, I spotted this junior toad and zipped in to get my camera hoping he would still be around when I got back. He was, in fact he didn't even move much with my camera inches from his nose and remained there for hours after I had gone. He's about 2 inches long (they get to be about 4.5 inches full grown - and as round as they are long). I was thinking that I wanted a macro subject today - Thank you Mr. Toad! Zoom in and get a good look at this cool dude's cool eye.

A couple of years ago, one of these toads would have sent me running. Eeek! I've gotten used to so much about living in the woods but certain slimy things have taken a bit longer for me to accept. Before I moved here, 13 years ago, I was a bit of a city girl. I grew up in a suburban neighborhood in lower Michigan, but after college I lived in Chicago, Houston and Indianapolis, Indiana. Back then, I would rather have hiked to a boutique or hopped a cab to a bar than go for a hike in the woods. My husband got a real good laugh at the boots I brought up here for my first visit... in the winter... in deep snow... me in leather boots with a heal and no traction or lining. Well, my friends thought I was nuts to move up here, even for this guy. But, I fell in love with him as well as the area. It's just simply a beautiful special place and I'm so lucky to live here (and to be married to him). Heck, people come from all over to vacation in this area and in my free time, I feel like I'm on vacation. Anyway, I have never regretted moving up here and obviously have become quite a nature freak. Now, shoveling snow, hiking in the woods or a snooze on the beach trump shopping any day.

We have many full grown toads in our yard (they love our rock wall). I have come to grips with that and even enjoy them. All except for when I step on one, the size of a softball, as I let the dogs out at night... No, the toads are never harmed... but my heart stops every time!