Oh Deer!

I stopped at Horton's to pick up coffees for Elsie and I and then hopped on the highway heading toward New River. It was after six and I was running a bit behind schedule but still I was in no hurry and drove slowly enjoying the early evening views. As I passed through Pennfield I saw them, slowing even further for a double take. I couldn't believe what I was seeing, deer, deer and more deer...right there on someones lawn, contentedly gnawing away at the brown grass. They were great in number but not in physical size. The long cold winter had obviously taken it's toll on these gentle creatures. My they were thin! Now I understood why so many of the people around this area that love animals put food out for them during the winter months.
I've recently read posts on gossip central, aka, Facebook from people as well as hearing buzz around town stating a dislike for people doing this for the deer population. It brings them out close to the road and makes driving dangerous. Although I see their point, and yes it would be better to take the food out into the woods for the deer, if I thought deer would come into my backyard I would put food out for them too. I just love watching them. My recommendation would be to drive very slowly on the highway and enjoy the view of nature. I'm sure the deer were here long before the highway and the people that insist on taking away their natural habitat for their convenience.
Perhaps it is because I am new to the area that I notice the deer crossing signs everywhere and I heed them, watching carefully along the roads when travelling. Maybe it's because I am enjoying the slower pace of life here and refuse to be in a hurry to get anywhere that it doesn't bother me to drive slower, especially in this area at this time of year. I hope that living here over time will not cause me to be less in awe of nature's abundance and beauty. So, drive slow, be aware, and enjoy the view!