I just returned from a trip to the Catskills for a long weekend of yoga, meditation, and a swimming lake in green mountains. I woke each morning before dawn and went out to be with the rising of the light.  One morning dawned with a dense mist and fog.  The doe was about to bound across the path as I was walking.  She stopped short.  I stepped back.  Both of us equally startled.  We looked at each other benignly curious.  Then she ambled off and I did the same. On the way back to the guest house, I saw a porcupine run across the lawn.  I understand that they are great pests, but I truly enjoyed getting to see one.  I think I might like the porcupine as a spirit animal.