11/24/09–In this extremely civilized corner of Sedona, we have tennis courts, a swimming pool and suana, and grassy enclaves where birds come to "smell the flowers," and dogs AND cats are walked on leashes.

I looked out yesterday morning across the grassy plot that separates me from the tennis courts and saw trotting confidently along, a dog WITHOUT a leash or an attendent.  But then, I did a double take.  It was not a dog, it was a full grown javalina,  confident in pace and direction.  For those who aren't acquainted with this bit of wildlife: javalinas somewhat resemble pigs–long snouts, bulky bodies, bristley dark hair–and very sharp teeth.  I  have seen them in families before against the hillside where I used to live, but never have I seen one in this condo complex.  I have heard from others here that whole javalina families have been known to visit these condos and devour or uproot plantings but, heretofore, I have dismissed such news as fantasy.  No more.

Not to waste such sightings, my "javalina surprise" will be a part of my annual Christmas letter to family.–Willma