Animals of all kinds have always been part of my life. Our family has always had a dog. We have lived close to the country and nature, and the deer, coyotes, squirrels, rabbits and bears. It was a gift to have found the little bear, and to have spent a short time raising her. She loved to be held, to play games with Cindy, our dog, and to climb trees in the yard. It was hard to part with her, but at least she would have a safe life where no one could harm her. The love I gave her came back to us in all her cute ways, and in my memories of her soft, fuzzy body nestled in my arms for a nap.