a few weeks ago I encountered this curious creature as she swam freely in circles around me. I’ve met quite a few on my stand up paddle boarding adventures. the infamous river rats. they are quite big. harmless. most of the time they don’t seem to notice or care for my presence. this one was different. she not only noticed me but spend several minutes swimming along side and then when I stopped she circles around. perhaps she was hoping to score some food from me. I had none. perhaps her ambitions were grander and she considered me to be her meal. obviously her dream never came to fruition. she suddenly disappeared under water. I waited for a while but her return never materialized. amd just like that my life was enriched by another beautiful experience…