Bitter cold that tickled her nose and helped also to put her anxiety of being in the valley once again to rest. Winter was the season of reflection and decay of past grievances. As symbolized in the natural world with the death of spring’s plants, and the harsh weather that kept wolves inside dens, forced to reflect on themselves since they had nothing else to distract themselves with. With the weight of her fears lifted from her shoulders by the playful teasing of the gentle breeze, she was free to enjoy her favorite season!

Today was a splendid, rare winter day. The sun shone like a beacon of goodwill, and lit the snow with glimmers. Dragonfly took in a long, relaxed inhale and closed her eyes to enjoy the perfect ensemble of a wonderland. Against the pure white of the snow, the silver sheen of her full coat was obvious. In spring, she was often mistaken for white, but with the pure color as her background, her true hue was revealed.

The tranquillity of the valley was lifted into active mischief as carmel young wolf zoomed over the crest of the hill. Dragonfly startled upwards onto her toes while her ears and eyes popped forwards as she watched him. Her tail waved in excitement at seeing his playful nature while he tumbled down the slope, delighted with the way with soft powder whirlwind around him in a localized blizzard. What a glorious day! Tranquillity into play; she couldn’t ask for a better beginning to her adventures today.

Dragonfly bounded in a circle, unable to contain her joy. She paused when she’d circled once and her body wriggled like a pup as she lifted her head to form a neat “O” with her lips. Her howl was short, but full of verve. Then, she pounced through the snow closer to him and bowed with her tail in the air, inviting him to play. Musically, she greeted him, Heya, fella! I’m Dragonfly. You’re quite the athlete! What’s your name?

While she waited for his reply, she looked him over, attempting to discern what breed of wolf he was. The unique mixture of grays and browns and russets were handsome, but she didn’t know if that made him a gray wolf or a timber wolf or maybe something between the two? Oh! A valley wolf - she bet that was it.