I'm a Cougar fan, but....

So this is what it's like to spot the Lochness Monster.

OK, it is our local monster/myth... but I crossed paths with a mountain lion two nights ago.  There have been other sightings and a pet's demise here or there blamed on the creature over the years.  But a mountain lion coming into our neighborhood?  I had dismissed the idea long ago.

It was a dark and eery night, much like most nights after tithing settlement, when I was driving home...  and I beheld a dog, or what methinks is a dog, sauntering along on the sidewalk in front of the Evans and Malan's homes.

This dog-like creature however was not satisfied with my underestimation of his true form, so he bolted in front of my car as to be fully lit up in headlights, causing me to brake and stare open mouthed while Jessica exclaimed, "Did you see that?"

The size of a large dog, it ran stealthily-- like a cat.  Lightly colored with distinct spots and a stubbed tail half way down.  It turned and looked at us just before dropping down into the ravine as if to say, "Oh, yes.  You have glimpsed.  The legend is real, and I will not let you sleep at night.  Perhaps Santa and his reindeer are the one's who'd 'better watch out'..."

The nerve of a mountain lion speaking to me that way, coming into our neighborhood like he's the top of the food chain.

I am taking neighborhood action and posting this sign everywhere:

Good thing I have extra kids.