A New Friend

I met a new species of four-legger today. And what an interesting species it turned out to be.

It's small and furry, with a sleek black coat and a nice, wide stripe down its back. Very pretty, really. A bit of a small head and kind of beady eyes but not bad looking at all.

It was wandering through the back of my yard so I thought I would greet it in my usual way: a loud hello, a running start, my tail up and waving, all nice ways to say hello. It stopped in its tracks and glared at me. Then it lifted its tail. Great, I thought, that's the way my species says hello — lift your tail for a sniff.

Only I didn't need to get anywhere near it to enjoy a strong dose of its scent. This little animal can send its scent right at you! Wow. My entire face was soaked with the stuff!

Wow, does it ever smell good! I like it.

For some reason, though, my Mom doesn't like it at all. Not one bit. She's washed me with water, with shampoo and even with this special smelly stuff our friend Patty brought over. The scent of my new friend is still there but it's muted somewhat now.

And I'm stuck in the yard all day. Mom won't allow me in the house.

I hope my new friend comes back, though. I can't get enough of that wonderful smell!