As of two months ago, I had never actually seen one. I had heard rumours that they were indeed real, I had seen photographs, but their actual existence had never been confirmed.

Then, I actually met two of them, up close, in my own back yard. I was safely ensconced, happily observing them from behind the window of my house, where I could take photographs while basking in the warmth of the pellet stove.

Then, two weeks later, I witnessed a single one running with unexpected grace and elegance across the highway, some distance ahead of me, as I drove into Smithers from the east, in broad daylight. I was happily behind the window of my car, and in no danger, immediate or otherwise, besides the danger that normally accompanies me when I place myself behind the wheel of a motor vehicle.

Tonight as I drove home through the Exodus 10:21-type darkness that afflicts Smithers on a seemingly constant basis, I came within ten feet of hitting one with my car.

I am hoping that my relationship with moose progresses no further than it has this evening.