Notes On Charlie - August 27
Little Charlie is not so little anymore. He has yet to double in size before he's fully grown, but he is a BIG puppy! He almost reaches edge to edge when he stretches out across the width of the bed; when I carry him, he fills up my entire torso area - hard to believe that just four months ago he fit in one hand. He used to shock the cat by walking under Eli's belly and now the tables are turned - if Charlie is standing in the cat's path, Eli walks right under Charlie and wraps his tail around Charlie's body the way that cats do.
Two days ago, Charlie said his first word - his first howl! He howled three times in a row - each one was really only a one-syllable howl, and he looked so astonished at himself and he hasn't done it again. It was darling.
* * *
Now, regarding the comments on this site: All that any of us truly know is our own experience. Some people try to superimpose their experiences onto other people's lives and that never works; it's inherently flawed logic. One thing I have learned from starting this blog is how ridiculous it is to be judgmental, in any capacity. It's so egotistical to believe that we know more about someone else's reality than they do. And such a waste of time.
I have left every posted comment on this website for two reasons - one, I personally believe that every comment is a commentary about the commenter, and has very little to do with me - it's how I get to know you guys! And two, I have a life, a job, and a coyote to run around the hills with - I simply don't have time to sit in front of the computer moderating. However, people are making statements and declaring them facts when they are not, and this is starting to bug me. I don't want to facilitate providing misinformation to the internet, even if it is indirectly, from others, yet on my website.
I have not quite figured out how I am going to deal with this, but in the meantime, darlings, do not believe everything you read. I know a whole lot of people, and I'm sure you do too, with degrees or titles or "knowledge" that are very ineffective people, whose motives are their own agendas, not truth.
No two snowflakes are alike, no two relationships are alike, no two experiences any of us have in this world are alike. I am documenting mine here. And since I'm not trying to tell you how to live your life, please afford me the same respect.
152 comments:
AMEN!
well said, shreve.
Good on you!
Hear Hear! Well said.
I'll Amen that Amen! :-)
You have my vote!
Striking photo there of Charlie! Handsome devil! :)
When I came across your blog via another last month, I wondered how long it would take the real "bad guys" to surface.
Sadly, it didn't take too long.
Please know that the majority of us enjoy your journey and appreciate the fact that you are sharing with us.
Yes, this story could end badly, but you know - I could get hit by a bus today.
It's called "life" - enjoy it while you can. So there.
Well said! You are blessed to have this experience and everyone following it (ok everyone who cares about & loves animals) are rooting for this to be a long, safe and enjoyable relationship. You have a bond formed. You are his pack/mom/friend/companion, etc. You don't sound like you went into this with unrealistic expectations. You are living life - not watching it go by without experiences. Everyone should be so lucky to do so! I am hoping the advice givers are trying in their own way to be supportive and protective of you and not just negative. Best wishes to you and your critters.
wisdom...to bad many won't realize it.
Dear Shreve;
I think you, Charlie, and Eli, are so beautiful and so blessed to have this life to enjoy together. I have so much respect for you and for sharing your journey with us (and you are a particularly gifted writer / storyteller / photographer.) Thank you, all three of you! It is so wonderful, this life, isn't it?
-Love and Respect from Canada (from a former Cowgirl and her Orange Cat ;-)
Please don't let the trolls bother you too much! The other 99.9% of us would be sad to think that they've had a negative impact on you, when sharing your story has been such a gift to us!
Rock on!
1.) First time poster
2.) Daily Coyote subscriber
3.) purchased a 2008 calendar
4.) While truly vested in this website, I have never provided MY opinion or advice, although I find a keen, personal, relatable connection to Shreve, Eli & Charlie.
5.) Old enough to be your mother and completely "un-cool" and out of touch so I remain hidden to refrain from appearing ignorant.
6.) Most importantly, in 1973 or 1974, I took in an ophaned wolf pup who lost his parents in a "turf war" in my back yard in Alaska. I named him Markalester, and called him Mark.
Like Shreve, I didn't have a clue; however, I "mothered" him to the best of my ablity with the support of my parents (I was a young teenager at the time.)
Mark was loving, adoring, very, VERY protective of me and my Dachshund "Heather" and a hoot to have in the mock family/pack.
Most importantly, Mark was loved, safe, and thrived.
He was with me about 2 1/2 years before HE decided our time together had come to an end.
Even though I had 2 1/2 years of a very, very similar life... I have NEVER felt the need to provide my unsolicited advice.
A coyote and cat in Wyoming, are Shreve's reality.
A wolf and dog in Alaska, were my reality.
Apples and oranges in my opinion.
I just visit this little extended family of mine each day, share their love, remember when it was MY experience, and enjoy.
Love your site- I come by everyday to see how You, Charlie and Eli are doing, if I wasn't a starving nursing student I'd subscribe as well!
How right you are on most of us being quick to judge another's life. That was me until a friend lost her young son in a tragic accident at home and when I saw how total strangers judged her it really opened my eyes. I realized that could have happened to anyone and if you aren't there you don't know the circumstances. I have gotten to a place where I am no longer so quick to judge and it feels good!
You just said it so much better though! Good luck to you, Eli, and Charlie - I look forward to hearing abut your adventures!
I couldnt agree more after all its like saying if you mix apple juice and orange juice it will explode,it doesntand if someone said it did they dont know what they're talking about, but very well said
Great site. Do not let the trolls get to you...pretty tame stuff compared with some places.
Trolls are everywhere regretably. If you would think there would be a blog that would not attract trolls it would be the site of Sir James Galway - the famoous flutist. Well there was recently a guy there who repeatedly posted SHOUTED BS unrelated to flute. He suddenly disappeared...banned I am sure and rightly so. Do the same if you need to.
You are amazing Shreve! Well spoken, and brilliantly articulated! BRAVO! We could all learn so much from you!
Hugs to you, Eli and Charlie from Stace on the Chilly Sask Prairie in Canada...
Keep up the good work!
:o) xo
Very well said! And although I'm not guilty of such internet behavior, reading your words did remind me to pull back a bit when I get opinionated and self-important now and again.
I simply and completely admire your spirit and the way you look at everything! Bless you.
Charlie's "first words"!! I couldn't help but smile reading that and also about Eli now walking under Charlie. Tables are turning, huh? So glad they're pals now. Reminds me of my cat and kitten. Here, when that happens, it's like "get outta my face!!" (said the cat)
You and Charlie have entered my life and for that I thank you. I continue to live through your words and pictures. Charlie came into your life for a reason. Only God knows why, but enjoy it while you can. Keep up the good work and continue the posting. If someone disagrees, then they dont' need to visit.
We love you...
The only thing I'd ask of you (in regards to how to live your life) is that you give Eli and Charlie a little nuzzle for me from time to time.
In Blog Valley High, there will always be those mouthy buttheads in their letterman jackets trying to assert their "Big Man On Campus" position. They're the same jerks who did it in their real high school years; since those days were their own personal bests, they have to relive it through text on blogs because they could never achieve personal satisfaction in life through normal means of living like the rest of the world. They're doomed to a life of failed attempts at intimidation.
(and, angelic_dimensions, if you ever decide to write about your time with Mark, I'd love to read that too!)
Well said, Shreve, though I think most posts are positive and even the ignorant ones are well-intentioned. There are some exceptions and perhaps there is software that would help you catch their comments. You could also not allow comments and just let us enjoy the photographs and your notes. Though I would hate to lose the chance to ask questions.
Speaking of which, I watched a youtube video of Charlie running and he was dragging a long length of chain. Was the chain to identify him as belonging to someone? Or to keep him from running too far? Or ???
AMEN from my point of view as well, Shreve. Wouldn't the world be a better place if we just took care of ourselves without trying to tell everyone else how to live their lives?
riosmom - I posted an explanation of the chain in the comments below the video on youtube - it's in three segments so you might have to go back a page... S.S.
Well I have to say keep blogging, keep sharing your awesome stories about Charlie; I found you blog searching for blogs similar to mine. And I come daily to find out about Charlie. We have wolves were I live and coyotes just made an appearance this year. I track wolves and photograph them in the wild; I have video and 450 pictures of wolves. I get a lot of flak for what I do. But I don’t do it for others I do it for myself and those people who get it. I have two websites one is strictly about the wolves and our encounters; www.wildaboutwolves.blogspot.com the other website I have is to bring awareness about wolves and wild animals living near rural cities. www.kaienislandwolves.com. So keep sharing your stories about Charlie..
Amen & well told, Shreve.
even though the trolls are few & far between here, they still fill me with a big 'arrrrgh', which is the antithesis of what you & Charlie are all about.
I've noticed fewer lately, hope they've moved along to the Daily Turnip.
I visit your site every week day. I live in Wyoming though in Laramie in town. I love reading your blog and seeing pictures of Charlie! Enjoy your time with him!
That hadn't occurred to me, that you'd get to see Charlie's language skills develop. How neat! I wonder if he'll learn differently than coyotes in a family group? (I'm in Tucson, and we get to hear the adults doing what sounds like teaching the kids hunting calls.)
Looking forward to more stories!
I find it funny that some people have commented that Charlie would be better off learning survival instincts from his parents, seeing as he was orphaned as a baby and the only thing his parents could teach him is how to play dead. At least with you he has a shot at life. Keep up the good work - there are plenty of us out here that support you. (And we're enjoying the perspective you are providing us of this side of nature that few humans rarely see.)
Hm, makes me think of my mother almost. My mother will turn to me for questions about the pets, like health, good set ups for the rodents and whatnot since I've always been an animal freak. Yet ... she just will not get comfortable with the idea of her children about a pitbull, no matter how many times I explain it's bad breeding and bad raising that makes a bad bully.
I guess what I'm saying is, what you believe is what you choose to believe, regardless of how highly regarded that person might be to yourself or others. Half the information that is TRU FAX, is probably just "true" because you believe it in your mind. It doesn't make it real or anything just because you believe it. So many religions, so many beliefs ... which one is real?
Shreve, you seem to have your head screwed on pretty straight. Keep doing what you're doing the way you're doing it. There's always going to be someone who disagrees. Maybe some of us would not have made the same choices you did and are making but we're not in a remote part of WY with an orphaned coyote. I think it's important on line to take the high road and not get involved in other people's drama and it appears you're good at that. I wish I had always been as mature about things in my online life.
People who don't approve should simply stop reading. Looking forward to more beautiful pictures and writing.
AMEN AMEN AMEN.....brilliantly said !!
I have only given you praise when I've left a comment, but thanks for the little nudge that we all need every so often reminding us that we can only do what works for us as an individual and that we have no room to tell anyone else how to live their life !!
I have so much respect for you and what you are doing. You are a true blessing !!!!
It has been said, but Amen!
Don't give those judgemental commenters another thought.... I sure don't. Very well said, Shreve!
I don't usually read comments, but this begged to be read. I like the blog a lot and I think if anyone was trying to super impose their experiences it would be wrong.
HOWEVER, the statistical average of experiences should be appreciated with all care as it provides the average outcome.
Sharing experiences should be encouraged, but we superimposing on yours is wrong. This is to say presenting negative experience should be encouraged, but you make your own conclusions. Its egotistical to think I will succeed when most others have failed.
I like this blog a lot, its my favorite, the coyote is SO CUTE (cuddles). I don't think people should tell you what to do, but self examination of your own situation based on theirs is probably wise.
You Go Girl!!!
You are SO true to yourself. Thank you for bringing us so much Love & Light with your blog, Shreve
Thank you, Thank you Thank you.
I've been coming by daily since I discovered this blog, I've told other people about it and they said "This restores my faith in humanity" - in other words, this is magnificent, you are lucky, and we are privileged to share in that luck. DOn't stop.
Love to Charlie and Eli.
If you can't say something nice...
or something uplifting...
or something positive...
Don't say anything at all. Keep it to yourself.
For many of us this blog is an integral part of our day! Don't ruin it just because you don't agree!
You and Charlie and Eli are a daily inspiration and a joy. I'm sure that's not only me, but true of thousands of people around the world.
There are always the rude, the ignorant, the know-it-alls, and those who take pleasure in trying to tear down, destroy or at least pee on whatever is beautiful and good.
Those people don't even make a dent here. When I read your blog...and I do read the comments...that evil stuff just rolls off me and the beauty and peace remain.
Thank you a million times for sharing Charlie -and yourself- with us.
Funny, as I was reading about Charlie's first word this morning, I had a twinge of jealousy-- I think your life sounds quite dreamy. Beautiful land, adorable animals and a cabin. Unfortunately, the know-it-alls and nay-sayers will always be around, but they're probably just unhappy with their own life and want to take it out on someone else.
Some people try to superimpose their experiences onto other people's lives and that never works; it's inherently flawed logic. One thing I have learned from starting this blog is how ridiculous it is to be judgmental, in any capacity. It's so egotistical to believe that we know more about someone else's reality than they do. And such a waste of time.
I'm stealing this quote from you. It's perfect and completely spot on. Personally I think you're doing an amazing thing and if more people would be so kind to animals, the world would be a better place.
Shreve,
You just proved who the better person was. The way you articulated yourself was perfect. Anyone who comes to this site with the intention of belittling you and your reality needs to take a step back and examine their own reality. Life is too short to worry about other people, focus on yourself and your own shortcomings, be the best YOU can be.
You rock honey.
I am simply in awe of the life you are leading and the experiences you are having. I can not begin to understand them - only peer into this window you have given us. I am grateful for that. I only found this site fairly recently and now I am a daily visitor. I just wanted to says "Thank-you" for opening your curtain.
I love your blog. I am completely jealous of your experience with Charlie. Keep up the good work!
I can't say it better than you or any of the others did... But please continue as you are, and thank you for giving me a daily pang of "I wish I wuz you!".
Oh brother. For cryin' out loud! Why can't these jerks just enjoy the pictures and reading about your experience?!
Pompous arses...
I have been enjoying the life and times of your pack and think you are all so lucky to have the bond you do.
While Charlie may not be a typical coyote and Eli may not be a typical cat (how cats have a coyote for a brother,) and you are certainly not a typical mommy, what you all have is so special.
Charlie & Eli's lives have been so blessed with you as their mommy. And, if not for you what chance in life would Charlie have had.
My husband and I raised two kittens, who were abandoned by their birth mother before their eyes were opened. We started feeding them with an eye-dropper. They were so small they both fit in the palm of my hand.
Today (3 years later)they are healthy, happy guys. And, while they arn't typical cats, they have had a much better life than they ever would have had living in the streets.
I know cats are different than coyotes (please don't tell Charlie and Eli) but if I was in the situtation and place you were when Charlie came into your....well I would most likely be a coyote's mommy.
Thank you for sharing your pack's wonderful adventures and photos.
May God bless you all,
Carol, Scott, Smokey & Stryper
Shreve,
I've been a Charlie fan for about a month now, and I've never read the viewer comments before today. After today's "Note" I had to see what folks were up to.
Whenever you put yourself in the public eye, there will be those who feel it's their place to ridicule and judge. It's a very sad aspect of human nature.
I'm glad the majority of comments left are positive.
Well said Shreve.
No, back to the business of sharing your beautiful life.......
Too funny about Charlie learning to howl! I wonder if he would have started earlier if he had a pack to imitate, or if it just 'comes' at a certain age.
my dog Jake did the same at about 8 months - silly little guy raised his nose to the sky (or really, the underside of the dining room table) and did 3 practice howls, looking more surprised with each one. Then he caught me watching and looked embarrassed, stopped.
I think most of us ignore the trolls, they're idiots. Sometimes they get each other all excited and feed off of each other, but it's still the same group of self-important trolls.
Your site makes me happy every day. Wish more peeps could be like you. Can't wait for my calendar!!
aaah, those with degrees and too much useless information in their heads - they will always try to find a way to mess with you and make you fit into their world. ignore them i say; i admire you for having chosen "your way" to enjoy life and all the two- and four-legged creatures in it.
Do like I do: Don't bother reading the comments. Most of the time they are just worthless. I come here for the beautiful photos and the blog owners Notes.
Perfectly said, Shreve! More importantly, congrats on your baby's first word(s)!
Ugh, I originally made a big lengthy post defending myself, but I don't even know if you're referring to me in your post.
If you are, I just want you to know that what I said about feeding wildlife is true, not just my opinion, and I don't see why I would have some sort of secret "agenda" about it! I just feel morally inclined to say something when people are doing something (unknowingly) that is going to harm wildlife. I certainly don't feel like you are doing anything wrong by raising/feeding Charlie; I do think- due to overwhelming scientific evidence- that it is harmful for people to feed populations of wildlife as the poster I targeted admitted to doing.
I will not respond to other peoples comments anymore, but I hope I am welcome to continue commenting here as I love your photos and hearing about how things are going with you and Charlie!
Nil illegitimus carborundum.
I remember when my dog barked for the first time at about age 5 months. Scared both of us!
So many "experts" on the internet. Sigh. Personally, I'm grateful that you are sharing this with the rest of the world. :)
some people just don't know when to stop...
First, there are few absolutes in relationships of any kind and species.
Second, the world is ever changing and evolving. How sad to think an idea or thought is the only correct one - where would the world be today if everyone thought that way?
Blessings, support, and love to you and Charlie.js
Good for you... my motto is do not judge my life until you have walked in my shoes....I love your blog and the pictures... I too have a orange Tabby and I think it is so awesome to follow. Take care and enjoy charlie and what he has to offer you...
Take care...
Mary Lou
Paradise, Newfoundland
Something that may be 'true' may not be 'right'. It is an opinion and we all know what those are like!
Keep on doing your thing. Don't let people get to you.
Ah...echoes of the Buddha.
The only blog I've ever read and like most folks, think it is a wonderful commentary on human/animal relationships. In sixty years I found animals to be more dependable than most humans. Stay safe, there are real wackos out there. God Bless.
Looks like Charlie is waiting for the roadrunner to pass by so that he can bonk him on the head with his Acme hammer waiting inside!!!! Beep! Beep!
Don't let all the Negative Nellies get to you. You are the ultimate conservationist keeping it "green" . You're so green you get your pets directly from the source! We love you and all you are trying to do for us!
Very well said. I cannot believe anyone would presume to tell you what to do in this situation. As far as I'm concerned, you have been blessed with Charlie, as well as your other animals. What a unique experience to have a wild creature cross your path and for you to care for it. There must be a reason you were chosen. It's been wonderful following your story and I wish you all the best.
My, you have a wonderful way with words! Well said!!
Based on all the comments, I'd say you are doing just fine by most reader opinions. (You have a LOT of readers.) You write very well. Stick with us.
I love your blog. The photos are just stunning. I wish I were half as talented. I don't know what anyone else is saying because I haven't read the other blogs but from your commentary, it seems like they are concerned about Charlie's health and well-being. In my opinion, Charlie looks very happy and healthy which is what counts.
First time commenting--came here a few weeks ago via Cute Overload. Charlie's first words sound adorable.
I don't see how it makes any sense for people to tell you that Charlie would be better off in any other circumstances--from what I understand, it was this or death, and I sure know which one I'd prefer if I was him.
My questions run more along the lines of what you plan to do if/when he decides he needs to go be a wild coyote--if there really are places where he isn't likely to run into a rancher, and whether you plan to keep track of him with a radio collar or just let him go his own way altogether.
Thank you for sharing your journey with Charlie. Please don't let the 0.01% spoil it for you (and us!).
Brava!
What you are doing for Charlie is a great thing. The compassion you showed for him as an abandoned pup is a wonderful quality to have. You saved him. We need more people like you in this world. Keep your head up and don't forget about all the shy (raises hand) daily followers who are silently supporting you, Charlie and Eli. We outnumber the icky ones by far!
*Hugs*
Well said and SO true! Good luck to you and Charlie (and Eli) they are one of the highlights of my day;-)
Thank you Shreve for doing what you do.
I would love to watch the youtube videos of Charlie, but I can't seem to find a link here and nothing returns in a search on youtube. Can anyone point it out to me??
do you keep a collar on him? i'm just worried because we had a half wolf puppy who got shot by hunters on our property.
charlie is beautiful. long life together to both of you.
Don't pay attention to all the naysayers...you're doing a fantastic job! I have the utmost respect for you and I know I'm not alone. Thank you for sharing Charlie and his life with all of us. :-)
I appreciate your sharing your relationship with Charlie, and I am thoroughly enjoying visiting your blog every day.
I just wanted to say that.
Shreve - Thank you for pointing me to the answer to my question. I hope my question didn't come across as critical - I assumed a good reason and was just curious. I think we are all in love with Charlie and want to know as much as possible about him. We should all pretend we are sitting on a hill watching him and enjoy him the way we would if that were so. I have watched wild creatures that way and come away with unanswered questions but enriched by the experience.
Hey, and there are people who claim to have degrees, titles, and knowledge and it turns out they are liars.
Keep truckin' Shreve and ignore the losers.
Kisses to Eli and Charlie.
P.S. You can always ban the repetitive trolls.
I have nothing but envey for you and your way of life. Would love to have a charlie.
hi - i've not left a comment, but on reading your comments below 'notes on charlie' i just wanted to let you know how much i appreciate what you are doing - putting up pictures of him and telling his story through your blog. i know it takes time to do that every day, and - at least on the blog - you are doing it for free. i stop by multiple times a day simply because each time i do your pictures bring a smile to my face - even those pictures i've seen time and time again. thank you.
I hate that people can still find ways to complain and be critical on a website like this which invites absolutely no controversy. It is so frustrating even to read them because I come here to get a glimpse of something adorable that brightens my day, not read some jerks testament to their massive all knowing ego. That just makes me loose a little more faith in humanity. You handle it with class though- I dont know that I could be so restrained and enlightened if people started throwing their egos at me.
An excellent thought, in my opinion. I wish more people thought the same way.
Love your beautiful pup. :)
I have degrees and probably waaaayyyyy too much useless info rattling around in my head. ;-) And I love your blog and your beautiful photographs and the view you are giving me into the life and personality of this one coyote. I've read we have a population of wild coyotes right in a park in my town. There have been some confrontations locally, and to be honest, I was a bit afraid for my small dog. We have lots of wildlife, even though we are close to an urban area, and I'm learning to respect it. But the view I'm getting of one special coyote has helped me realize that we are all fellow voyagers on this rock going around the sun. Blessings to you all and thank you so much for sharing Charlie with us.
Shreve,
I found your blog before Dooce did (and Rosie O'Donnell!), and I knew that after you were Dooced, the haters weren't far behind. I'm sorry your experience has been such a mixed bag, (lovers/haters!) but such is the blogosphere. Perhaps a solution is to go to typepad or some such, and require free subscriptions in order to moderate them. I don't think you can do that, though...
I know that Chris at Creek Running North has dealt with comments in some fashion, though he doesn't get the hits you do.
ENOUGH about that.
I am so happy that Charlie is howling now! I heard my first yipping coyote pack in the wild here in CO the other night - I have yet to hear a howl. One thing you might try is howling along with him. We do that with our dogs, and it's great fun!
Love to Shreve and Eli, and that interloper, CHARLIE. :)
In this sometimes mixed up world we inhabit few things can bring us such innocent pleasure.
You and your commitment to Charlie should be, and can only be a good thing for him.
None of us can see into the future,but you chose to give Charlie a future. As a fellow lover of animals of all kinds,shapes,and sizes I tip my hat to you sweet woman for having the guts to do what needed to be done.
More importantly for standing up for your beliefs when you need to and coming back to live in Wyoming,also my home.
I am thrilled that you have such a zen attitude towards Charlie and his future.
Bless you, Shreve.
Thanks for writing that message. Your fortunate to live out in the wilderness away from "pain in the ass people".
For the love of everything beautiful in this world - thank you for sharing your amazing story with us - we are blessed with an opportunity to have a glimpse into your world. Thank you.
Sincere congratulations... and keep doing what you think is right and ignore the moralizers!
You have fans around the world, I'm writing from Italy (so from a totally different environment), and I really appreciate the snapshots of your life with Charlie you're giving us.
My best wishes!
G_d Bless you Shreve for opening your heart to an animal in need.
I wholeheartedly agree with you in spirit. I agree that people shouldn’t be judgmental and should “live and let live” in general. Anyone who reads what I say on my own blogs will know that instantly. That said, I think it’s worth pointing out that by putting yourself and your private life out in public like this, you invite comment. You are involving people in your personal life to some extent. I’m sure you’re not getting rich off the calendars, so I’m thinking you do this for the enjoyment of it, and I respect that. I’m the same way. But when you hang out your shingle, so to speak, you invite people to size you up and form an opinion about the parts of your life you decide to share. It just comes with the territory, and it’s something you have to accept. I have a lot of religious loonies who’ve written me all sorts of nonsense regarding the (personal) views I’ve expressed on my blog. I publish almost all these (I turned on comment moderation to stop spam and to prevent the few truly dangerous posters from spreading their spleen via my site). I accept it as a natural response to putting myself out there publicly, and I think you should, too (I’m not telling you how to live, btw :-) ). To be frank, your request for people to allow you to live your life as you choose really doesn’t serve much purpose. Most people who frequent your site would do that already—they don’t need to be reminded to mind their own business. The handful of nutjobs who think they have a right to tell you how to live won’t listen, anyway. Your request will fall on deaf ears. As one blogger to another, I’d suggest you just ignore these kinds of posts, or, better yet, find some humor in them (I actually enjoy it when especially anal people flame me or try to tell me how to live—it can be a great source of free entertainment :-) ).
Also, re: your comment that “some people try to superimpose their experiences onto other people's lives and that never works; it's inherently flawed logic,” I beg to differ. For me, that’s like saying we can’t benefit from other people’s wisdom and experiences. Sometimes applying one’s wisdom to another’s life does indeed work, and it’s not inherently flawed—it’s how we pass on tribal knowledge and human experience. It’s how we raise kids. I also don’t consider it “egotistical to believe that we know more about someone else's reality than they do.” If I’m a doctor and you’re sick, I might indeed know more about your “reality” than you do. If I had had a pet coyote myself and, say, he had a problem with eating my neighbors’ pets, that might indeed be an area where I have some experience that you don’t from which you might benefit. This notion of having separate “realities” might work out nicely if we all lived in separate, parallel universes, but since we’re stuck sharing this particular one, your reality and my reality might intersect and be one in the same on occasion. For example, if coyotes can’t help but eat roadrunners, and I happen to live next door to you and have such a creature, our realities might indeed be intertwined and I might very well have an interest in advising you on how you live some (small) part of your life. I mention this not because I disagree with you in general—like I say, I feel very strongly that people should live and let live—but because the other side of it is that we all share one world and have to find ways to coexist. People can’t just do whatever they want. I know you already know this; it’s just something I felt ought to be pointed out.
Hi Shreve :)
I realize that it is far easier to say "Just ignore the yahoos" than it is to actually accomplish the feat, I cant do it either ;D
I learned to not allow people I will never even meet to upset me at all, rather I have chosen to turn humor on them, allow them to amuse me instead.
Poor widdle fings.....
;D
They tend to go away once they realize they will not be able to get my goat :)
I'm an expert in nothing, but know love when I see it. I personally commend you for saving another living, breathing beings life and showing him what love is.
Blessings to you Charlie and Eli
M.
You are living my dream life.My 6 year old and I check your site often as we are amazed and thrilled at the adventures of yourself Eli and Charlie.I love your perspective so dont let the naysayers get to you.I am so green with envy and wanted to let you know that what you are doing is fantastic.Keep the furbabies safe and give them big ole amounts of love from their cyberfriends.I look forward to seeing and hearing more of your great adventures and will let my 6 year old know there is a new post,it thrills her to no end LOL
Your blog lifts my spirits. I don't come here every day, but at least 3 times a week.
Amen!!!
I have read most the comments today....and I am pretty sure I am hearing a standing ovation. Congratulations you are doing just fine.
Thanks,
Sue
Coyotes are wildlife. Some people shoot them. Multiples. You gave one life. I should think the ones which seek to preserve wildlife could see the bigger cause here. If there need be a cause at all. You can walk with Charlie for a while, his spirit and yours, but you can not erase his instincts. You couldn't if you tried and you're not trying anyhow. Charlie will choose for Charlie. I admire your love for living things. This website makes up in heart warming joy, for all of the inhumanity I read in the media daily. Maybe it is our lives that are wild, and maybe Charlie gives us more than we give each other. Thank you.
The YouTube video of Charlie kissing cows should be sent to every cattlemens association, etc.
Good will for coyotes! Charlie, the coyote ambassador!
Three extremely cute videos.
Well Said. Everybody thinks they are an expert. Look at all the medical facts that have come out over the years only to be proven wrong some years later.
Just enjoy these beautiful pictures and the life of this beautiful coyote.
I look forward to each and every new post on Charley. It makes me sad to think that your attempt to share Charley's story is being criticized. I'm glad that you are continuing to post on Charley, despite the critics.
God bless you!
: )
A good friend sent your site to me today and after getting a case of the warm-fuzzies, I sent your link to a large group of like-minded people (I am sure you will get even MORE comments!) I am so riveted by your experiences and love that you know "your" coyote is not yours, but merely a gift of passage. Lovely. And good job on your words to the naysayers!
I wish I could have heard his first words, it sounds adorable. :)
Exceedingly well written; you're being more generous to the ill-mannered than I might have. I'm new to your blog, but as a fellow photographer, I appreciate your work...and Charlie's antics. I'm rather jealous of your situation, I would dearly love to document the life of a wild thing such as Charlie. Enjoy it and ignore those who have no class.
All I can do is repeat what most others have said. Seeing and reading about Charlie brings me such joy and awe. Anyone reading your words could see that you didn't adopt a wild animal out of some silly self-indulgent urge, but because you were his only option -- and that you are caring for him with as much responsibility, love, sensitivity, and insight as anyone could possibly hope for. Charlie is a lucky boy to be with you and Eli, and we are all blessed in being able to vicariously share a little bit of your life with him. I wish long life and happiness to all of you, wherever your paths may lead.
nuf said!!!
Had to pop in to say how much I have enjoyed your site! Your pictures are beautiful, the stories even more so.
~Michele
Nature has no absolutes. What you give Charlie and through him all coyotes out there is priceless. I was once across the Atlantic, to Canada in a small town. At night I could hear the coyotes howl. It was the most beautiful sound I had ever heard. I envy you.
Jelousy does strange things to people.
So don't pay attention to people who basically don't matter.
If you want a heads up, or an opinion or advice, ask those and listen to those who do matter to you.
Listen to the people you carry in your heart, to those that will be there when you need them.
For me personally, all those know-it-better-posts gave me more insight. More insight to admire what you do even more.
Keep it up.
The internet is a curious thing. On one hand, it connects you to a "social" network worldwide that can be enlightening, interesting, and inspirational.
On the other hand, it allows ass-hats that wouldn't normally a)be aware of you b) have access to you or c) have the audacity to say anything to you in person, to "voice their concerns".
Meh. Live and let live. Jerks have their own misery, I'm sure.
I let critical commenters ruin my first blog. When I finally allowed myself permission to delete and block discourteous, abusive, and stupid commenters (on my next blog try) I was much happier. It also nipped the problem in the bud because they knew I wouldn't give them space for their pathetic pleas for attention or self-righteous rants, so I wasn't harassed nearly as much with the second blog.
Delete negative comments freely. This is YOUR website, not theirs. You do not owe them space for their opinions. They can start their own blog if they want that space.
Blogs are not newspapers. You don't owe the stupid people of the world equal time. It's bad enough we have to listen to them in life. You don't have to have them crap all over your online world.
I just love reading The Daily Coyote. It's a little oasis of joy. Thank you.
Katie.P
I love your little crew and I don't even know you - your my best (only) friend in Wyoming in my own head.
I say F 'em if they have issues.
You do what works for you. God bless! You know in your heart that you're coming from a good place.
Your situation is some what similar to the German zoo that let the abby polar bear survive. So many "experts" chimed in on how it would be more "humane" to let him starve to death like his brother. Yeah right.
Now he is a poster bear for a lot of people and as such has touched humans and made them better.
Charlie is the same, he has touched so many lives through your essays and photographs and he will continue to do so whether he decides to stay with you in the future or not.
Many people who found coyotes a pest have changed their minds due to Charlie and that has to be a good thing.
I love our wild coyotes and the excellent rodent hunting and carrion clean up job they do. Tell Charlie his brothers and sisters in Indiana are well and appreciated by this farmer.
G in INdiana
Your blog, your life together and your experiences are all a gift. Thank you for sharing and God bless you and your "children".
Have fun living your life, don't pay attention to what others have to say.
People will always try to tell you how to do things, but I know deep in your heart you already know what to do :)
A long time reader and subscriber, first time poster from Costa Rica.
Rock on, woman!
*hugs*
This is a beautiful blogg about a beautiful animal and relationship. I would not have done anything different if a wild creature as lovely and helpless as Charlie showed up on my door.
You do the best you can in life, even if other people tell you that you are wrong.
You ARE doing the right thing and I THANK YOU for sharing your experiences with all of us. We are all the better for it.
When I see the beauty and grace of a wild creature, then I know there is a God.
Thank you for sharing Charlie and your thoughts & images.
It's so refreshing to come across blogs with people that possess a gentle nature, who are wise, and have great eye to capture not only images but essence of their subject to boot.
Hopefully some of your wisdom will make it's way into the subconscious of some of your judgmental fans
We agree with you 100%. We love what you are doing and to heck with those who don't!!
Big Sloppy Kisses
Gus and Louie
God bless you Shreve and your two pals, and I thank you so much for sharing Charlie and Eli with all of us. Ignore the "know-it-alls" and their comments - what you are experiencing is truly a gift and more special than anything these idiots can ever have in their lives. Keep living your dream and allowing all of us to be a part of it.
That's really too bad that people are criticizing you. No matter what you do, someone's always going to feel the need to voice their opinion whether right or wrong. Just live your life with no regrets.
Pls continue to blog! I love Charlie ... He is just beautiful.
Happy smooches,
The Tart
; *
BTW, very cool hat. 5 bucks, nice!
You go, Shreve. We love Charlie!
Keep living as you believe, you are an inspiration. I think you've struck a beautiful balance between man and nature. We could all learn a thing or two from you...
Thank you SO MUCH for taking the time to keep up your site! Charlie is often the daily bright spot in my urban life.
Your photos and commentary are fantastic. Thank you for sharing with us all.
beautifully stated, as always...
Don't let the trolls get to you.
Charlie is beautiful, Eli is also beautiful. I look forward to checking in a few times a week to see the lovely photos. You did a wonderful thing taking Charlie in, and I'm sure you knew it would be a unique experience. Thank you so much for sharing it with us.
His first words! ROFL!
Thanks for the wonderful blog - like most of us, I look forward to checking it every day. One of my favorite bloggers has a great comment policy:
http://scalzi.com/whatever/?page_id=84
strength-
courage-
freedom.
you have it in spades.
To be invited into an adventure like this is really a gift. It's not possible to get everyone to agree about it or look at an amazing situation like this with an open mind. It's a shame that when everyone gets a voice not everybody uses it politely. All that being said I will continue to look forward to my Coyote fix on a daily basis. If we listen to animals they will tell us all we need to know.
Personally, I find your decision to keep Charlie inspiring. Without you, Charlie certainly would have died. You have shown him love and recieved love in return. There are never any guarantees in such a relationship, and inevitably most loving relationships bring pain of some kind, but also growth if we are lucky.
In addition--Coyotes are predators, as we are, and in my opinion have just as much right to life as we do. I understand farmers who need to protect their livelihoods, but the wholesale slaughter of coyotes is wrong and disgusting--this karma of disrespect and entitlement will come back on us as a species if we don't change our ways.
I stumbled upon your blog a few weeks ago and was captivated at first glance. I even started all the way back to the archives and started at the first post and worked my way forward. I am really appreciative of what you're doing for Charlie, and the fact that you've decided to share your experiences with the world.
I came across your site thru cute overload, i love charlies story and thank you for being an angel and giving him a home!!!
all the best!!
I just enjoy this site so much. I do wonder if the wild part will ever surface but apparently you don't so it's all good. Thank you for this blog because this is a regular stop for me.
"One thing I have learned from starting this blog is how ridiculous it is to be judgmental, in any capacity. It's so egotistical to believe that we know more about someone else's reality than they do. And such a waste of time."
Lovely statement... it's brillant.
My '08 calendar is currently staring at me from my office wall.
All my coyote encounters have been urban...coyotes trotting calmly down the street in the predawn (eyeing us runners with some annoyance), singing in the wee hours and playing between the apartments. They're beautiful, adaptable, intelligent animals.
I think Charlie's lucky you took him in. I'm glad you could. I hope he stays happy, and that you do, (and Eli too, of course).
Like everyone said..Amen!!
I love your site and this experience you're very generously sharing with us. Thank you.
there are always a few bad apples in every bunch.
most everyone loves this site, you, charlie, eli, your life. no one else matters. :)
i love dropping by to see the latest!
I absolutely love your blog. Don't change a thing.
Reading your stories and viewing Charlie's pics really warms my heart. Don't let the a$$holes get to you.
Thank you for your honesty in your writing, and the beautiful pictures of Charlie, Eli, and your life in Wyoming.
People will always have their personal opinion on what they think is "right and wrong" but the truth of the matter is they have no idea what they would do personally until they are in the same situation as you. I doubt your readers have been in your shoes; therefore, they are not experts on what should be done or not done with Charlie. You have done your best and are giving Charlie the ability to make his own decision about staying with you, while trying to provide him with experiences that will make him strong when he decides to lead his life away from you. It drives me nuts when folks refer to "overwhelming research," science, and statistics to back up their opinion on what is right and wrong, as we all know that this research is not always applicable to all situations.
You are doing the best you can and gave life to an amazing animal that would have surely met his death, and that's what's most important.
BRAVO! I couldn't agree more and you said it all so brilliantly!
What a wonderful blog this is. I wish you and Eli and Charlie ALL the very best....He is Beautiful and I love that you share the happenings of the day with all of us.
I love this blog, the photos, your experience, Charlie, Eli, all of it. Keep up the good work. Clearly, based on the 141 comments above mine, you are supported and your life is being seen in a positive light by the vast majority. Thank you!!
How mature and humble your answer is to those who hurt you. You have a lot to give, Shreve, and most of us in this blog are grateful for your sharing. We choose not to judge you, just love you, Charlie and Eli instead. Thanks again, for sharing your miracle with us.
Laurie
your story and photos are amazing!!
thank you for sharing your story of Charlie and Eli with complete strangers ... even the ones who do not stand in your "boots" ...
you are truly gifted in many ways ... Leah
I suppose a person could question the wisdom of keeping a coyote as a pet. I guess that's what the trolls have been bothering you about.
I can't bring myself to question it myself. You've got a cat, a coyote, a camera and a cabin. You're living my dream. With alliteration.
I'm always amused when "experts" talk about "what coyotes do" or "what is true of coyotes."
Coyotes (like humans) are extremely adaptable. They are intelligent critters, who can have incredibly diverse personalities.
I don't know exactly what behaviors or capacities I'd describe as typical. They can be shy, aggressive, brilliant enough to spring traps safely and dumb enough to end up squooshed on the road.
Coyotes are individuals, and the same can be said of a lot of other sorts of critters, too.
You are having direct experiences with a coyote who loves you and lives with you. You're not learning about Charlie from a book - you're living with him.
Not every educated person I've met is a fool, but a diploma - or even a twenty-year-career - is not a guarantee of wisdom, character or aptitude. People often don't _know_ how much they don't know.
I feel that you share your experiences in a very honest way. That doesn't mean it's impartial or unfiltered, but I think you do the best you can to tell it like you see it.
Maybe Charlie would be happier running around in the brush, if he survived being orphaned at all, which is unlikely. Maybe he'd be satisfied and fulfilled living the wild life. Maybe someday he'll go off and be wild.
But maybe he likes living in a house, with his human and cat family, with shelter, food, love, games, and companionship. I have the suspicion that this makes him at least as happy as if he were living out in the rain, having to eat grasshoppers and locust beans.
You, Charlie, and Eli seem, from the small window on your lives that this website offers, to be a happy family. Maybe he'll grow up and leave home. Maybe you'll be together for good. Some kids move out and go to college, some stay to help out on the farm.
Anyway, you go girl!
As far as feeding wildlife, I feed birds, especially corvids in the city. I don't do that out in the country, because I don't want to teach them that people that look like humans are safe. But people don't do a lot of crow-killing in the city.
I wouldn't feed a wild coyote or a fox, or similar critter, because I wouldn't want to teach it that humans are safe.
That's not the same as adopting an animal that you are going to care for and be responsible for.
Charlie may be a wild animal, but he doesn't live in the wild. He lives with you.
coyote said...
"Charlie may be a wild animal, but he doesn't live in the wild. He lives with you."
........................................
Beautifully, beautifully said. Really enjoyed both of your posts on the 15th.
This argument amazes me. I have always been strongly against keeping exotic pets/ domesticating animals for your own pleasure or thrill. That being said, this is clearly not the case here. You obviously did not purchase or seek out Charlie, but rescued him, in an attempt to prevent his death. The difference is so ridiculously obvious.
In addition, (although I haven't read every single post) I haven't seen any constructive advice for your situation from any of these "wildlife experts." Why don't they use their "expertise" to advise you on how to properly release Charlie when the time comes, or how to teach him valuable hunting skills, instead of simply criticizing you for giving him that second chance? I can't believe that all that their "experience" with wildlife has taught them is how to have moral debates on the Internet.
I'm six feet tall and have earned my doctorate in particle physics.
Or I'm five feet tall with a B.A. in literature.
Can you tell over the net? I bet you can't.
Any society that has moved beyond third world impoverishment is unnatural, so let's not worry about "natural interactions" in North America, shall we? It's okay for a dog to nurse tiger cubs, but not a woman to nurse a coyote? I think not.
http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory?id=3183179
Shreve, you are doing an amazing thing. You are not attempting to make a pet; you have simply cared for a being that needed care. Although if there is such a thing as a "natural interaction," that's it.
Loretta
Wanaque, NJ
Home of certified lead-free squirrels!
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/2007/10/30/2007-10-30_squirrels_safe_to_eat_again_in_new_jerse-1.html
(Ringwood and Wanaque share a border)
The blog rocks. We like Charlie, and you're very good at the words and the pictures. There's a book in this, if book's aren't too last-millennium.
Excellent!!!!!!
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