Day 890: Four bears

My brother Mike's camp near Warren, Pa. is in a remote area that is often frequented by bears.  About 6:30, a mom and her three cubs appeared near the garden.  Wild blueberries grow nearby, but before the berries are ripe, they are drawn by birdseed.  We arrived at the house after dinner out and  found them munching away about fifty feet away.  Thick fog was settling in so the photos aren't great, but it was a thrill!

It was a trying visit, as always, with some pleasant moments.  We arrived at 3:00 and the first time I spoke more than a word or two was at 6:30.  Mostly I said, "nice" or "wonderful" or "how exciting" or "lovely" or "ohhh".  My sister-in-law does love the sound of her own voice.  I try very hard to be patient and understanding, but she challenges every fiber of my being when she repeats the same old stories ten more times each time we meet.  Some stories I have heard at least 100 times.  How do I respond to that?