All Things Ellie Tuesday...and Percival, too!

This morning, Ellie and I went outside.  We primarily do so that Ellie can do what she needs to do, but that is not her primary concern.  As soon as she is out the door, she is headed to the backyard where our kayaks rest against the side of the house.  

 

Quite some time ago, Percival adopted this spot as his home.  Last fall, while Percival was brumating, Glen and I took the opportunity to clean out this area, replace the leaves, and install a plastic box where Percival could retreat to escape the weather.  We also put a shallow bowl into the ground right by the kayaks, so he could cool off when he wanted to.  I also hoped this tiny pool would discourage any cats who might want to try to reach Percival.

He seems to have liked the upgrade to his domicile, because he is there almost every morning when Ellie and I go out.  This morning, he was actually sitting in his pool.  As soon as he saw us, he began walking toward us.  I am going to choose to believe it was because he loves us, not simply because he knows I bring chicken and cantaloupe for him.

(Percival does not have an injury in this photo; it is a piece of a leaf.)

Ellie has seen many box turtles in her life, but she doesn't react to any other the way she does to him.  I can barely hold her on the leash.  This morning, she stretched her body out to its fullest length so she could sniff him.  He sat contentedly eating while she did so.

Every time Ellie goes outside, she wants to look for Percival.  She is particularly good at letting us know he is under the car, where he frequently likes to hang out.

I am so thankful to the Lord for leading Ellie to Percival on that first morning and for giving us the interest to continue searching for him.  He brings joy to our hearts in a way I can't explain.  Part of it may be the obvious joy he brings to Ellie.

Percival eating breakfast.  Ellie is just outside of the frame.