Next to NRGS – Athens, lives a sweet gentleman. I didn’t even ever need to meet him to know that about him. One has only to look at the love he puts into his plants and garden. Yesterday, I noticed something on the side of his house that I’d never seen before. Upon further observation, it was clear that it was a snake of some kind. Because I know how much my neighbor works in his yard, I wanted to make sure this was a variety that would not bring him harm. Time to meet my neighbor!
He opened the door and smiled in the most genuine way that I’ve only witnessed on the odd occasion. I introduced myself. He introduced himself as David. He told me that he has lived in Athens 59 years. My friend on the other side of me had surprised David a couple weeks back with a tray of young seedlings for David’s garden. We talked about his garden and vegetables. He wants to plant okra this year but “it’s no longer as enjoyable when you are growing for only one”. The only moment he revealed even a hint of sadness. I think he might have lost his wife very recently.
Juvenile rat snake….I think. If you know for sure, leave it in the comments.
Cranberry Pecan Muffins anyone?
We went to inspect the snake. We both felt pretty certain the little guy was harmless but I wanted to make sure. I snapped a photo then told him I’d let him know what I found out.
Today, I was inspired to make muffins. I bake, but, like David, I don’t find it as enjoyable when I’m baking for only one. I could see David doing his yard work while I mixed my batter. In the last several weeks, I have begun meeting my neighbors and actually interacting with them. I now have more to bake for so I was making a big batch to share. I tested one to make sure they turned out then gathered up a couple to take to David. I found him in his garage, resting. Again, that smile that warms your soul. I told him I looked up his snake and it was likely a juvenile rat snake. I’d paid particular attention to its behavior and the rat snake has a couple unique ones, like climbing up the side of walls and taking on a kinked shape when threatened. He’s a good snake to have. A keeper, for sure. I then handed David the muffins.
“I was just wondering what I would have for lunch. Now I can have these.”
Working from home does have some unexpected perks. This would be a good example of one of those.
By the way, the muffins are Cranberry Pecan. I’ll share the recipe if you ask nicely.
