The Garden Thief

  Along about noontime, I decided to make another batch of peach jam.  Since I had already picked all of the peaches due to marauding coons, the task was half done.  It was a just a matter of "jamming".  The fruit was all prepared, cooked and jarred within a short time.  There was nothing to do but clean up my mess.  While doing that, I heard a strange sound on the back porch. Hmmm...that was unusual as no one was out there.  I opened the door to come face to face with the Garden Thief!  

  A young raccoon was searching the area for something for lunch.  I eased my way out the backdoor and onto the small porch all the while still holding a pot and dish towel.  The coon slowly made its way down the steps and then turned to look at me.  It seemed to expect me to give it a handout!!  As if I needed to do that after it has raided the garden numerous times!!  Nope, Little One!  You are not getting a handout today!  The little coon edged its way under the shed and I thought all was ended for the day.  

  About five minutes after disappearing under the south side of the shed, a small head popped out of the north side!  The little rascal was exiting there and making its way back to the porch!  Ok, coon!  That is enough!  Get yourself out of here before I hurl this pot at you!  The coon did not stop.  Rather, it kept coming toward me and, once again, appeared to be begging for food.  

  It suddenly dawned on me that this little coon must be the same one that my brother feeds at the end of the lane.  Since he gives it daily handouts, the coon has lost all fear of humans and thinks that every one should do the same. Not me!  I do not mind feeding the critters during bleak times but the garden is in full swing and they are surely getting their bellies full each night.  So...Little Coon...go back down the lane.  You cannot have my plums, peaches or tomatoes!