[Teresa Ford]

Last evening about twilight, I was walking Gracie and Abba. We have often talked about walking safety here on YT. I had the usual poop bags, walking stick, pepper spray, and cell phone. I clip leashes to the carry bag strap. We were walking on the paved hiking path which is at least 10 feet away from the lake. It is nicely shaded by old oak trees. My neighbor Bob has two young daughters age 9 and 11. The girls often tag along on walks Their father was standing in the yard and gave them the yes nod. So our little entourage were walking along chatting. "Miz T LOOK !" Bethie said pointing. I looked and a large owl was just beginning to swoop down. It was coming right at us, like a flying bomber on a target. All three of us screamed and I bent over and grabbed Abba up. He weighs about 3 lbs. Clair the older girl snatched Gracie up. I dropped my walking stick with a clatter. Bob came on the run when her heard our frightened screams. He picked up my walking stick and waved it at the disappointed and retreating owl. "Get going, No rabbits here, go on !" the owl flew up and perched in a near by oak tree and blinked at us. My heart was beating like it wanted out of my chest and my mouth was so dry I could hardly thank them. Needless to say but, that abruptly ended our walk. Bob handed me my walking stick and took both dogs in his big arms and said "I'll walk you home." I walked home on rubber legs and didn't feel safe until he handed me both dogs at my door. I thanked them again. I closed the door and realized that neither dog had uttered a bark or whine. I guess they were scared quiet. I looked around, all 5 dogs were pressed against me on the sofa. It was weird not one of them wanted to leave me and play. I felt tears fill my eyes I could have lost one of them ! Thank God we were all safe now. Like a collective sigh we all began to return to normal.